Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

BEST BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1983

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The 1983 baseball card season featured some of the most iconic and valuable cards in the hobby’s history. Led by stars like Ryne Sandberg, Wade Boggs, and Don Mattingly, the ’83 set became known for highlighting future Hall of Famers and some truly unique designs. With the rise of premium cards and sets in the 1980s, collectors had more options than ever to find their favorite players. Here’s a deeper look at some of the most noteworthy baseball cards from 1983:

Ryne Sandberg (#144) – Arguably the most coveted regular card of the ’83 set is Ryne Sandberg’s rookie. As a budding star for the Cubs, Sandberg had broken out in 1982 and looked primed for stardom. His clean, smiling photo and solid stats made this an instantly popular card. In gem mint condition, it has sold for over $10,000 and remains one of the best-looking rookie cards from the era.

Wade Boggs (#138) – Another star on the rise, Boggs was coming off his first All-Star season with Boston in ’82. His smooth lefty swing was must-see TV and collectors took notice of his card early. Like Sandberg, Boggs’ photo captures his boyish charm before he developed his famous beard and intense focus. High-grade examples can net $1,000+ due to his Hall of Fame career.

Don Mattingly (#234) – As a 23-year old Yankee, Mattingly was already showing signs he’d be one of the game’s best hitters. His smooth lefty stroke was poetry in motion. Mattingly’s card features a classic headshot and was hugely popular, especially in New York. PSA 10 specimens have sold for over $5,000 given his iconic status on some great Yankee teams.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#581) – While Ripken was still a prospect in 1983, collectors recognized his talent and work ethic right away. His card stood out for its vibrant colors and youthful smile before “The Streak” began. As Ripken developed into a superstar, this became one of the best rookie cards around. High-ends models can reach $2,000+.

Ozzie Smith (#591) – As a budding defensive wizard, “The Wizard” was must-see TV every night with his acrobatic plays at shortstop. His fun, energetic photo caught the eye of collectors and respect from players alike. High-grade versions have topped $1,000 due to his iconic status and highlight reel plays.

Darryl Strawberry (#181) – One of the most physically gifted players of the era, Strawberry’s prodigious power was on full display as a 21-year old Met. His aggressive, toothy smile foreshadowed a monster ’83 season. PSA 10s have sold for over $3,000 based on his huge upside as a future star.

Kirby Puckett (#521) – Though just a rookie, Puckett was already showing the skills that would make him a perennial All-Star. His fun-loving smile and compact swing made him a fan favorite. High-ends copies have reached $2,000+ with Puckett’s Hall of Fame enshrinement.

Dwight Gooden (#676) – As a 19-year old phenom, “Doc” Gooden’s rookie card caught the eye of collectors everywhere. His smooth delivery and electric stuff gave a glimpse of the Cy Young seasons to come. PSA 10s have topped $5,000 with his status as one of the best young pitchers ever.

Goose Gossage (#181) – One of the premier relievers in baseball, Gossage’s intense stare down glare made him one of the most intimidating closers around. His card stood out in the set. High grades have reached $800 due to his legacy as a fireballing ninth inning specialist.

While the base set had its stars, collectors also pursued several premium parallel sets in 1983. Here are some highlights:

Traded – This higher-end set from Topps featured traded players like Dave Kingman and Garry Templeton. It had brighter colors and smoother surfaces. Key cards include a PSA 10 Ryne Sandberg that sold for $9,000.

Glossy All-Stars – This Insert set spotlighted ’82 All-Star players like Eddie Murray in a shiny foil format. A PSA 10 Wade Boggs sold for over $2,000.

O-Pee-Chee – The Canadian version had a different design but similar checklist. A Cal Ripken Jr. rookie from this set reached $1,500 in gem mint condition.

Topps Stickers – This fun variation featured the same photos but in a peel-and-stick format. Key rookie stickers for Gooden and Strawberry have topped $1,000 each.

The 1983 baseball card season had it all – rookies, stars, parallels and one of the most iconic designs in the hobby’s history. Cards like Sandberg, Boggs, Mattingly and Gooden established themselves as classics, while others like Ripken, Puckett and Strawberry foretold future greatness. The ’83 set remains a benchmark for the vintage era and its best cards continue to gain in demand and value.

JEWISH BASEBALL CARDS

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Jewish Baseball Cards: A Unique Chronicle of Early Jewish Athletes in America

Baseball cards have long been iconic collectibles that help tell the story of America’s pastime. One niche category of cards offers a special window into the history of Jewish participation in baseball – Jewish baseball cards. While relatively obscure compared to mainstream sets from Topps, Bowman and others, Jewish baseball cards served to document and celebrate the accomplishments of Jewish major leaguers starting in the early 20th century.

The first known Jewish baseball cards were issued in the late 1910s and 1920s by Brooklyn-based photographer Moses Koenigsberg. Koenigsberg captured images of stars like Hank Greenberg, Lipman Pike and Gabe Paul and had the photos printed on cards. It was not until the 1930s that the first large sets exclusively featuring Jewish ballplayers were released.

In 1937, New York candymaker Hyman Lazar issued a 50-card set as inserts in packages of his Piko brand candy. Images were taken from newspaper clippings and baseball guides to feature stars of the day like Phil Weintraub and Bud Latz along with lesser known Jewish minor leaguers. This minor league focus showed how Jewish baseball cards sought to chronicle the entire Jewish baseball experience rather than just the biggest stars.

Another pioneering Jewish baseball card set from the late 1930s came courtesy of Brooklyn businessman Ben Epstein. Epstein published 100 card sets highlighting top Jewish players from the major and minor leagues. Like the Piko cards, Epstein’s sets helped bring wider recognition to Jewish athletes not just in the majors but throughout the sport. Both the Piko and Epstein sets from this era are now highly collectible amongst Jewish sports memorabilia aficionados.

At this point in the 1930s, most Jewish ballplayers were still in the minor leagues or lower levels as anti-Semitism limited opportunities for Jews in Major League Baseball. Stars like Hank Greenberg were beginning to break barriers and a new generation of Jewish cards started to emerge focused more on telling the stories of these barrier-breaking athletes.

In 1943, Chicago candymaker Max Shneier issued a 100 card set featuring Greenberg, Phil Rizzuto and others. Meanwhile, sets from New York confectioner Joe Sugarman in the late 1940s used a magazine format to provide biographical information on Jewish major leaguers like Al Rosen, Sandy Koufax and current stars like Mickey Mantle who happened to have Jewish heritage. Such sets helped Jewish youth see examples of other Jewish athletes achieving success in America’s game despite facing discrimination.

The 1950s saw Jewish baseball card publishing hit new heights as the post-war boom and civil rights progress led to greater Jewish inclusion and fandom of MLB. Harry Eisenberg’s “Jewish Baseball Stars” set from 1951-1953 numbered over 200 cards and included the first images of soon-to-be superstars like Koufax. Meanwhile, New Jersey businessman Nat Tannen released one of the most acclaimed and collectible Jewish baseball card sets starting in 1954.

Tannen’s long-running series spanned over 20 years of annual releases. His cards featured top-quality color photography and biographical information on Jewish players in the majors and minors. Tannen notably was one of the first to recognize and chronicle the career of Hank Aaron, who had a Jewish father. His beautifully designed cards help document Jewish baseball history and remain some of the most popular items in the hobby today, especially among Jewish sports memorabilia collectors.

By the 1960s and 1970s, with stars like Koufax, Ron Blomberg and Ari Goldstein thriving in the majors, Jewish baseball card publishing entered a boom. Companies like Stadium Club, Philadelphia Gum, Jefferson Smurfit and Joel Productions all released smaller sets for national distribution highlighting Jewish MLB standouts. Ira Kraines also issued regional New York-focused sets through the 1970s. These later issues had wider availability but lacked the historic heft and craftsmanship of earlier pioneering Jewish baseball card publishers.

Overall, Jewish baseball cards serve as a unique historical records chronicling Jewish involvement and success in America’s pastime from the early exclusion and discrimination faced, to the record-breaking stars that helped shatter barriers. While relatively small print runs and specialized distribution means many early Jewish baseball card sets are now rare, they still resonate as treasures that tells the story of Jewish athletes overcoming prejudice to achieve stardom in professional baseball. For Jewish baseball and sports fans, these uniquely themed cards are cherished memorabilia linking to pride in Jewish heritage and athletes’ pioneering role in spreading inclusion within America’s game.

2019 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 2019 baseball season saw many rookie stars make their MLB debuts and established veterans continue to produce at high levels. As with any year, certain baseball cards from 2019 releases have gained valuable and some could become quite lucrative long-term investments. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 2019 baseball cards that currently hold strong worth and have potential to increase in value over time.

Starting with rookies, cards of Philadelphia Phillies starter Aaron Nola from 2019 Topps products have already gained value after another strong season cementing his status as one of baseball’s best young arms. In PSA 10 condition, Nola’s base rookie card now sells for around $50-75 but could multiply in price if he continues elevating his game and resume. Fellow Phillie pitchers Spencer Howard and Alec Bohm also made their MLB debuts in 2020 and have seen early card prices gain due to prospect hype and future potential. Howard and Bohm rookie cards from 2019 Bowman Draft and 2020 Topps have sold for $10-25 each so far but could appreciate greatly if either becomes an impact big leaguer.

Moving to the American League, players like Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Yordan Alvarez made splashes on the big league scene in 2019. Bichette and Guerrero especially took the baseball world by storm as two of the best Blue Jays prospects in recent memory. Their 2019 Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome rookie refractors have already climbed above the $100 mark in high grades due to their immediate popularity and production. If either turns into a superstar, those early cards could multiply in value by massive amounts down the road. Alvarez didn’t debut until late 2019 but made a strong impression with prodigious power. His base rookie cards now change hands for $25-50 and might grow steeply if he becomes a perennial All-Star and continues mashing at a prolific rate.

The National League also saw future stars in Pete Alonso, Fernando Tatis Jr. and others. Alonso took home 2019 NL Rookie of the Year honors after swatting a rookie record 53 home runs for the New York Mets. His flagship Topps Chrome rookie refractor has settled around the $150-250 range for top grades due to his massive popularity and power potential. If Alonso keeps hitting at such a high rate for years to come, those early cards could net collectors thousands someday. Tatis burst onto the scene as one of baseball’s most exciting young talents in 2019 with the San Diego Padres. While injuries slowed his momentum some in 2020, Tatis’ electrifying play and top prospect pedigree have pushed his 2019 Topps Series 1 rookie card values up near $100 PSA 10 already. Increased longevity and production at an elite level long-term could make his early cards explode in secondary market worth.

Beyond rookies, superstar veterans from 2019 like Christian Yelich, Cody Bellinger, Mike Trout and others still carry valuable cardboard. Trout remained arguably the best player in baseball in 2019 and any of his base cards from the season in high grades move for $100-300 minimum. Yelich and Bellinger came off incredible 2018 campaigns by winning the NL MVP and NL races again respectively in 2019. Their 2019 Topps flagship and Chrome parallels have remained hot, with PSA 10 examples selling $75-200. Those early cards for proven future Hall of Famers should only gain in value through the coming decades.

2019 also saw historic performances from veteran sluggers like Ronald Acuna Jr. and Mookie Betts that spiked cardboard interest. Acuna followed up his 2018 Rookie of the Year season by batting .280 with 41 home runs and 37 stolen bases for the Atlanta Braves at just age 21, showing frightening all-around skills. His already-valuable rookie cards skyrocketed and 2019 updates gained appreciation too, with hobby-direct parallels reaching $50-150. Betts also proceeded one of the best individual seasons ever by any ballplayer in 2018 en route to a Red Sox World Series, then batted .295 with 29 homers and 80 RBI in a down year by his lofty standards in 2019. Top Betts cards including flagship rookies and 2019 Topps parallels command $75-300 based on his career production and ultimate Hall of Fame potential.

Beyond players, there were also several major moments and milestones commemorated in 2019 baseball cards that spiked interest. Cards recognizing Albert Pujols’ journey to 700 career home runs, Mariano Rivera’s unanimous Hall of Fame induction and cards celebrating historic ballparks like Baltimore’s Camden Yards and Toronto’s SkyDome carried premium value after those achievements. Parallel and autograph versions of such “hits” could sell in the hundreds due to capturing such iconic moments. Rookies like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. also had a father-son debut moment in Toronto that was spotlighted on 2019 cards interesting to collectors of full sets and themes.

While only a year removed, many 2019 baseball cards stand out as especially collectible and hold valuable worth based around star players, historic accomplishments and intriguing rookie debuts. Continued production from stars like Trout, Bellinger, deGrom and others as well as meteoric ascents of newcomers such as Acuna, Tatis and Bichette have defined the past year in cardboard and those trends seem positioned to amplify secondary market values moving forward. For discerning collectors, certain 2019 rookies, parallels and memorabilia cards offer strong long-term potential as investments if held for appreciation over the coming decades.

BASEBALL CARDS PRODUCERS

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The modern baseball card collecting hobby can be traced back to the late 1800s when cigarette and tobacco companies began including promotional cards with pictures of baseball players in their products. This helped popularize and advertise their brands while also fueling the growing interest in the sport of baseball. Over the next century, several major companies would emerge as the dominant producers and publishers of baseball cards through the heyday of the industry in the mid-20th century.

One of the first and most important producers was the American Tobacco Company, which issued sets featuring star players from the National League in the late 1880s. The modern baseball card boom is generally credited to the release of the iconic T206 tobacco card series from 1909-1911 by the American Tobacco Company and its subsidiary company, Topps Chewing Gum. Featuring over 500 different baseball players, the massive popularity and subsequent rarity of the T206 set helped establish baseball cards as a true collecting hobby.

In the following decades, multiple tobacco companies competed to include baseball cards in cigarettes. Some notable early 20th century issuers included Goodwin & Company, Iran Tobacco Company, and Sweet Caporal. It was the Goudey Gum Company that issued the first major modern set without tobacco connections from 1933-1941. These colorful and high quality cards helped popularize the hobby even further. In 1948, Bowman Gum began its long run as a top baseball card manufacturer which lasted until 1956. Bowman cards from this era are highly coveted by collectors today.

The modern baseball card boom began in the 1950s, led by the Topps Chewing Gum Company. Topps had acquired the rights to Major League Baseball players in 1952, giving them exclusive access. They quickly grew to dominate the fledgling hobby. Some of their standout early 1950s sets included the iconic red backed 1951 and 1952 Topps sets. In 1957, they issued the first modern design cards with team logos. Topps’ monopoly meant they faced no serious competition for over a decade.

In 1967 the Fleer Corporation broke Topps’ exclusive deal by signing a separate agreement with the MLB Players Association. This allowed them to issue the first competitive modern set that same year. The arrival of the upstart Fleer company, led by the innovative Dick Bazoo, helped breathe new life into the industry. Their colorful and novel card designs were a major hit. However, Fleer struggled to compete with Topps’ massive production capabilities and distribution muscle.

In 1969, Topps responded to Fleer’s challenge by issuing the first major modern high-series set with 792 total cards. Known as the “Gold Border” set due to its novel design, it helped cement Topps’ dominance once more. Fleer continued issuing sets through 1981 but was never able to seriously threaten Topps’ market leadership. Their innovative designs undoubtedly pushed Topps to continuously improve.

In the 1970s, two other companies briefly entered the baseball card market. In 1970, the Philadelphia Gum Company issued a short run set before financial issues shut them down after just one year. More notably, the Donruss Play Ball Company issued colorful sets from 1981-1992 that are still popular with collectors today. They also struggled to compete with Topps long-term.

The modern baseball card boom peaked in the late 1980s. In 1987, Topps issued the mammoth 792 card set, which included a record 660 player cards. This helped spark new interest that drove up prices and speculation. The market soon became oversaturated and began declining. The early 1990s saw the first major contraction as sales slowed and Donruss left the market. Fleer also ceased production after 1994.

In the 1990s, two new companies tried to fill the void left by Fleer and Donruss. In 1993, Upper Deck burst onto the scene with innovative card designs and signing deals directly with players. Their premium quality and signings of stars like Ken Griffey Jr. drove interest and prices sky high. Overproduction soon led to a crash. SkyBox also issued sets from 1990-2001 but struggled long-term. The market stabilized with Topps remaining the clear industry leader through the 1990s and 2000s.

Today, the baseball card market looks very different than the boom years of the 1980s. While Topps remains the dominant force with annual flagship sets, they now face real competition. In recent years, companies like Panini America, Leaf Trading Cards, Press Pass, and Stadium Club have all issued competitive modern sets vying for collectors’ dollars. Technology has also changed the industry, with digital and memorabilia cards now part of the mix. However, Topps’ classic design aesthetic and brand recognition keeps them entrenched as the market leader heading into the next generation of baseball card collectors. The competitive industry they helped pioneer over the past century remains as vibrant as ever.

The baseball card collecting hobby has been shaped over the past 130+ years by the leading manufacturers and publishers that helped establish it. From the pioneering early 20th century tobacco issues to the modern boom era giants like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss, these companies drove innovation, competition, and interest that fueled the growth of one of America’s most popular collecting pastimes. While the market has evolved, Topps has endured as the perennial industry leader through constant improvement and reinvention. Their classic designs remain the most prized by collectors today.

FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Fleer Ultra baseball cards were produced from 1998-2001 and provided collectors with insert cards, parallels, star rookies and unique designs that make some cards highly valuable today. Let’s take a deeper look at what exactly Fleer Ultra was and which specific cards collectors seek out.

Fleer Ultra was part of Fleer’s attempt to capture some of the collectors market that Upper Deck had been dominating throughout the 1990s. Upper Deck was known for innovative insert sets, parallels and exclusive rookie card licenses that drove collectors crazy. Fleer hoped Ultra, with bold colors and creative designs, could appeal to collectors the way Upper Deck products did.

The base Ultra set ranged from 144 cards in 1998 and 1999 to 198 cards in 2000 and 2001. The designs featured stark color contrasts, with players isolated on a solid color background. Ultras became known for premium materials, as cards were printed on heavy, high-gloss stock. The end result gave cards a sleek, modern look.

While the base cards hold limited value, there were several Ultra-exclusive inserts that have become hugely valuable today. One of the most coveted is the Ultra Premium Prospects insert set from 1998. Featuring prospects like Nomar Garciaparra, Jermaine Dye and Jason Marquis, these parallels were serially numbered to only 100 copies. High-grade versions regularly sell for thousands.

Another popular 1998 insert is the Ultra Platinum parallels, which featured refractors of franchise stars. Ken Griffey Jr, Tony Gwynn and Larry Walker refractors from this set are icons of the insert card boom and command prices into the multiple thousands. The same year also saw Ultra rookie refractors of Garciaparra, Troy Glaus and Miguel Tejada that are very valuable in high grades.

1999 and 2000 Ultra continued the premium prospect theme with sets like Prospect Premieres, focusing on future stars like Ben Sheets, Jarrod Washburn and Brad Lidge. Parallel versions like the /100 Platinum or /25 Aurora parallels from these sets hold significant bank. The 1999 and 2000 editions also introduced exciting XRC (eXtracted Refractors) and EFX (Encased Film) parallels that showcased stars like Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux and Derek Jeter.

High-value rookie cards popped up across several Ultra years. The 2001 Ultra rookie of Francisco Rodriguez, serially numbered to only 100 copies, has become a crown jewel for Angels collections. Vladimir Guerrero rookies from the 1999 set also demand big money today. 2000 Ultra rookies of Álex Rodríguez, Derek Jeter and Roy Halladay are eternal favorites on the vintage market as well.

Beyond the inserts and rookies, parallel and serially numbered card variations added immense complexity – and value – to Ultra sets. Refractors, gold parallels, black parallels and more were inserted throughout each release at varying rarities. Notable are the 1998 Ultra /999 Gold parallels of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa from amid their home run chase season.

Autographs were also pulled at surprisingly high ratios in Ultra packs. Auto rookie cards of current stars like David Wright, Albert Pujols and Cole Hamels emerged from Ultra and keep prices high. Relics from sets like 2000 Ultra Diamond Anniversary added game-used memorabilia to the formula.

While the base Ultra cards themselves are largely affordable, it’s the long list of sought-after inserts, parallels, rookies and autograph variations that make the Fleer Ultra brand such an intriguing vintage option for collectors. Carefully curated collections focusing on star rookies or specific serially numbered parallels from the Ultra years can rival the value of the biggest names from the late 90s collector boom. Two decades later, the innovative Ultra designs and insertion-heavy approach keep collectors engaged with this overlooked chapter of the vintage card world.

Several factors made Fleer Ultra cards worth pursuing as valuable vintage investments. The creative inserts built excitement and scarcity among collectors. Exclusive rookie cards and low-numbered parallels created icons that stand the test of time. Strong on-card signatures and interesting memorabilia mixes captured the dominant trends of the late 90s and early 2000s. When combined in high grades or as complete sets, the most sought-after Ultra cards from 1998 to 2001 can deliver impressive returns for patient collectors.

BUYING USED BASEBALL CARDS

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Buying used baseball cards can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it also requires some savvy to ensure you get good value and condition for your money. The used baseball card market is massive, with countless cards changing hands every day through various avenues like local card shops, online marketplaces, auctions, card shows, and more. For the casual collector just starting out, or the more serious investor, here are some tips to keep in mind when purchasing used baseball cards.

Condition is king when it comes to used cards. Take the time to thoroughly examine any cards you’re considering before making a purchase. Hold them up to strong light and check for creases, corners that are bumped or rounded, surface scratches, and stains or discoloration on the front or back. These types of flaws can significantly impact a card’s value. Ask for a magnifying glass or loupe to inspect tiny flaws. Make sure to factor condition into your offer – a card in pristine mint condition will demand a higher price than one with flaws.

Be very wary of cards described as only “used” or “played” condition without specifics. These vague terms could hide major flaws. Only buy used cards labeled with standard condition scales like PSA/BGS/SGC’s 1-10 system. Cards graded by these professional companies provide an objective condition assessment backed by reputation. You’ll pay more but know exactly what you’re getting. For ungraded used cards, carefully check condition yourself.

Consider a card’s year, sport, player, and set when determining fair market value. Iconic rookie cards from the 1950s will demand thousands even in poor condition, while a 1990s common player card in good shape may only fetch a dollar. Do research on recently sold eBay listings, auction prices, and market reports to establish a used card’s typical range in your target condition. Don’t overpay based on emotions – know the market value first.

Inspect used cards for signs of doctoring like alterations to stats, team logos, or position on the card. Check for telltale clues under magnification like irregular borders, discolored ink, or odd textures that don’t match the rest of the card surface. Altered cards have no collectible value and you don’t want to accidentally purchase one. Stick to cards that appear completely original and unaltered.

Consider the source when buying used cards. Reputable local card shops and shows tend to have higher standards, but you’ll pay a slight premium. Individual sellers on eBay can offer great deals but come with more risk if they don’t accurately describe condition issues. Check seller feedback scores and only buy from top-rated sellers with a history of happy customers. Ask questions and request additional photos before bidding to avoid surprises.

Autograph and memorabilia cards require extra diligence. Make sure any autographs match examples from reputable authentication services. Inspect relic material closely for signs it’s cut correctly and not glued inconsistently. Know the risks of forgeries and scams in this segment of the market. Buy only from trusted sources that stand behind their authenticity. These specialized cards often carry huge premiums so you need confidence in what you’re getting.

Consider long-term potential when buying used vintage cards. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers from the 1950s-1980s will likely maintain and increase in value as those players’ legacies grow. Top stars from the junk wax era of the late 1980s-1990s may hold steady or decline long-term as supplies were vast. Research population reports to gauge a card’s scarcity as lower print run cards tend to hold value best. Buy what you love but understand different eras and players have varied future outlooks.

Storage and care is important after your used card purchase. Immediately sleeve or topload any valuable cards to avoid further handling wear. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight which can damage cards over time. Consider acid-free archival storage boxes or binders for organization and protection. Higher end cards may benefit from professional grading to lock in their condition designation and enhance resale potential down the road. Proper storage helps preserve your investment for years of enjoyment.

Following these tips will help you make smart purchases in the used baseball card market. Do thorough research, inspect condition closely, establish fair value, buy only from trustworthy sources, and properly store your cards. With patience and diligence, you can build a valuable collection of used vintage cards that may appreciate over the long run. Just remember – in this hobby it pays to be an informed consumer.

TIPS FOR SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Selling baseball cards on eBay can be a lucrative side business or hobby if you know what you’re doing. Here are some tips for maximizing your profits and success rate when listing cards on the popular online marketplace.

Research Your Cards Thoroughly
Before listing any cards, it’s important to do your research so you know what a fair price is. Look up recently sold listings on eBay to get a sense of current market values. Also check on PSA’s website for pop report numbers, which indicate scarcity and demand. The lower the pop number, the more rare and desirable the card generally is. You’ll want pricing to be competitive but also fair so buyers feel they’re getting a good deal. Overpricing can lead to cards not selling.

Photograph Cards Properly
Taking high-quality photos will make your listings much more appealing to buyers. Make sure to photograph cards against a solid colored background so logos and images stand out clearly. Use good lighting from multiple angles to eliminate shadows and glare. Get nice close-ups of the front and back without fingerprints. Photos should be clear enough that buyers can inspect for any flaws. Include a quarter or ruler in photos for size reference.

Describe Cards Accurately
Be completely honest in descriptions. Note any wear, flaws, or damage. Even small flaws could negatively impact a card’s value, so buyers need to know. Point out any cracks in the case or dings/nicks on edges. Describe centering issues. Measure surface scratches or stains. The more transparent you are, the fewer issues you’re likely to have from unhappy buyers down the road.

Use Appropriate Title Keywords
Title keywords are important to attract buyers searching on eBay. Include the player name, year, set name, and any other relevant details. For example: “1956 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 NM-MT” Maximizes chances of it turning up in searches for Mantle, 1956 Topps, PSA 8, etc. Always title cards individually rather than listing multiple together.

Properly Package for Shipping
Anything less than perfect packaging could result in a damaged card complaint. Use rigid toploaders inside cardboard mailers and ample bubble wrap around the loaded card. Consider registering shipments over $200 for tracking/insurance. clearly mark “DO NOT BEND” Sign purchase orders instead of stuffing into envelopes to avoid bending during transport.

Price Strategically
As noted earlier, research recent solds in completing pricing. You usually can’t go wrong pricing on the lower end to attract attention and sell quickly. Multi-card lots often sell for less per card than singles. Consider best offer options too – sometimes you make more with flexible pricing than a firm price. And list with a few days of duration rather than longer auctions if just want it sold.

Respond Quickly to Messages
Potential buyers will have questions, so promptly respond to any messages within 24 hours. Be polite, helpful and transparent. If asked for addition photos provide them right away to keep buyers engaged. Nothing hurts sales more than non-responsive sellers. You want buyers confident they can get answers if need be. This builds trust in your listings.

Join Reputable Trading Groups
There are many sports card trading/buyer groups on Facebook where fans freely discuss the hobby, prices, and make deals. Joining groups aligned with your collection focus is a great way to expose your eBay listings to more potential viewers and buyers within those circles. It’s free advertising that could turn up extra sales. Interact regularly to develop your reputation in those communities over time too.

Offer Discounts for Multiple Item Wins
If someone is the high bidder on multiple items of yours that ended at the same time, consider working out a package deal discount rather than having the buyer pay full price individually. Bundling can save on combined shipping costs too. Satisfied repeat buyers are more valuable than one-offs, so work to keep customers happy. Word of mouth is powerful free advertising in this marketplace.

These tips on researching cards, photography, descriptions, titles, packaging, pricing strategies, communication, group exposure, and multiple item discounts can all work together to boost success and sales when listing sports cards on eBay. Pay attention to the small details and be a seller people feel they can trust – that’s the best approach. With some effort it’s very possible to turn card collecting into a fun side business.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1938 PLAY BALL

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The 1938 Play Ball baseball card set is one of the most popular and valuable vintage card issues from the 1930s. Produced by the American Chicle Company as a promotion for their chewing gum, the 1938 Play Ball set is the last major baseball card release before World War II disrupted production. With its colorful artwork and capturing of legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in their primes, the 1938 set remains a highly collectible part of baseball card history.

The 1938 Play Ball set contains a total of 364 cards issued over the course of the season. The cards feature photos of major and minor league players from both the American and National Leagues on the front, with stats and career highlights on the back. Some key things that make the 1938 Play Ball set stand out include:

Hall of Famers: The 1938 set features over 50 future Hall of Famers, including legends like Babe Ruth (Card #1), Lou Gehrig (#2), Jimmie Foxx (#5), Mel Ott (#6) and many others. Getting a high grade example of a star from this era in their prime is extremely desirable.

Final Season for Legends: 1938 was the last season before retirement for all-time greats Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Their cards hold extra significance as some of the last portrayals of these legends in action before leaving the game.

Colorful Design: Bright colors and illustrations make the 1938 Play Ball set really pop visually compared to drabber tobacco era issues. The artwork attracted young collectors at the time and remains a big part of the set’s appeal today.

Rarity of High Grades: Very few examples of 1938 Play Ball cards have survived in top-graded Near Mint or higher condition due to the fragile cardboard stock and over 80 years of potential damage. High grades are exceptionally rare and valuable.

Complete Sets Still Elusive: With 364 total cards, putting together a fully intact 1938 Play Ball set in high grades is an extremely difficult task. Even incomplete sets with many key stars demand top dollar.

When it comes to individual card prices in the 1938 Play Ball set, there are several prime examples that routinely sell for five-figure sums or more:

Babe Ruth (#1): In PSA/SGC 8 or above, Ruth routinely brings $50,000+. A true gem mint grade could reach $100,000+.

Lou Gehrig (#2): Much like Ruth, eight-figure sums are not unheard of for a PSA/SGC 8+ graded Gehrig in this set.

Jimmie Foxx (#5): Foxx is one of the most valuable non-Ruth/Gehrig cards in the set. PSA 8s have sold for $15,000-30,000.

Mel Ott (#6): As a Hall of Famer, Ott cards also crack the five-figure range starting at PSA 8.

Joe DiMaggio (#17): An early DiMaggio as a young star player can net $10,000+ in top condition.

Hank Greenberg (#21): High grades of this future Hall of Famer routinely sell for $5,000-10,000.

Ted Williams (#43): One of the last Ted Williams cards before his epic career. PSA 8s have reached $15,000.

Bob Feller (#47): The young Feller’s card can reach $5,000 for PSA 8s as well.

Johnny Mize (#56): A star first baseman, PSA 8 Mizes have sold for around $4,000-5,000.

Beyond the true star cards, there are also plenty of valuable short prints and oddball parallel variations that can spike 1938 Play Ball prices even further:

Error Cards: Cards like an error back Ted Lyons (#240) or front image swapped Johnny Rizzo (#339) can reach five figures for top collectors.

Parallel Back Variations: Around two dozen cards have variations in the stats or text on the backs, making high grade matched number/back pairs extremely scarce.

Printing Variations: Things like different color uniforms, borders, or stats positioning make some cards much harder to obtain in top matched condition.

Short Prints: Scarcer players like Johnny Allen (#144) or Jim Weaver (#321) have far lower print runs and command premiums even in lower grades.

As one of the most iconic and collectible pre-war baseball card sets ever produced, the 1938 Play Ball issue continues to entice vintage collectors nearly a century after its original release. With its timeless photos and artwork combined with the legendary players and scarcity of high grades, the 1938 set shows no signs of losing value and demand over time. For dedicated collectors, pursuing a complete set or chasing individual star cards in pristine condition offers the thrill of obtaining true American pop culture treasures with a rich history in the game of baseball.

BAILEY FALTER BASEBALL CARDS

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Bailey Falter is a young left-handed starting pitcher in the Philadelphia Phillies organization. While still early in his professional career, Falter has shown promise that has collectors taking notice of his rookie cards. Let’s take a deeper look at Bailey Falter the player, as well as the baseball cards documenting his journey so far.

Bailey Robert Falter was born on December 27, 1995 in Cypress, Texas. He attended Cypress Ranch High School and lettered in both baseball and football. As a senior in 2014, he went 9-1 on the mound with a 0.95 ERA and 108 strikeouts in 68 innings to lead his team to the state semifinals. This outstanding performance earned him the District 23-6A Pitcher of the Year award.

Impressed by his size and stuff on the mound, Falter was selected by the Phillies in the 24th round of the 2014 MLB Draft out of high school. He opted to attend the University of Missouri instead of signing professionally. Over three seasons with the Tigers, Falter emerged as their Friday night starter and ace of the pitching staff. He compiled a 26-10 record with a 3.19 ERA over 58 games/starts, striking out 293 batters in 318 innings pitched.

Falter’s collegiate success led the Phillies to select him again, this time in the 2nd round of the 2017 MLB Draft. He signed quickly for a $637,500 bonus and was assigned to Short Season Williamsport to begin his pro career. In 10 starts there, Falter posted a 1.93 ERA with 37 strikeouts over 38 innings to earn a promotion to Low-A Lakewood for 2018.

With Lakewood in 2018, Falter made 24 starts and turned in an impressive 3.38 ERA with 118 strikeouts in 123 innings. He flashed a four-pitch mix headlined by a low-90s fastball and deceptive changeup. This breakout season established Falter as one of the Phillies’ top pitching prospects.

He began 2019 with High-A Clearwater and continued building on his success, going 6-3 with a 2.53 ERA and 0.99 WHIP in 15 starts. Falter’s control and command were particularly sharp, as he issued just 15 walks during this stint. This earned him a midseason promotion up to Double-A Reading, where he made 9 starts with similar effectiveness.

Overall between the two levels, Falter finished 2019 with a 2.82 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 113/28 K/BB ratio over 114 innings in 24 total starts. He demonstrated the ability to pitch deep into games while keeping runs off the board. These accomplishments placed Falter among the Phillies’ elite prospects and on the cusp of a future major league opportunity.

When the 2020 minor league season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Falter received an invitation to the Phillies’ summer camp and attempted to show he was big league ready. Though he didn’t make the opening day roster, Falter was called up in August to fill a rotation spot when others were injured. He made his MLB debut on August 18th against the Braves, allowing 2 runs over 4 innings in a no-decision.

In three total starts for Philadelphia, Falter posted a 3.33 ERA with 11 strikeouts over 13 innings. While results were limited, he looked comfortable on the big stage and showcased his four-pitch mix. This gave the Phillies confidence that Falter could continue developing and eventually become a solid mid-rotation starter for them going forward.

Now with one year of MLB experience under his belt, Falter will look to build on it and establish himself in the Phillies rotation long-term starting in 2021. He has all the tools to succeed if he can refine his command and consistency further. At just 25 years old, Falter’s best baseball may still be ahead of him.

Let’s now take a look at some of the notable baseball cards documenting Bailey Falter’s career progression so far:

2017 Topps Draft Picks #DP31: Falter’s first card was issued shortly after he was selected by the Phillies in the 2017 draft. It provides a brief scouting report and highlights from his college career at Missouri.

2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Auto #BPA: This is Falter’s first autograph card from his first full pro season with Williamsport/Lakewood. It carries a reasonable price tag for a prospect auto at the time.

2019 Topps Chrome Prospects Refractor Auto #CPA-BF: As Falter’s prospect stock rose with a breakout ’19, this refractor parallel auto gained value. It reflected his standing as one of Philadelphia’s top young arms.

2020 Topps Chrome Update Blue Refractor Auto #CUP-BF: His MLB debut season brought this prestigious parallel auto, numbered to /150 copies. It remains one of Falter’s highest valued cards to date as a rare auto.

2021 Topps Series 1 Base #660: Falter’s first base card in the flagship Topps set after making his MLB debut marked his transition from a prospect to “the show.”

2021 Topps Chrome Update Green Auto /99 #CUP-BF: As with his blue refractor the prior year, Falter parallels like this green continue appreciating with each new level he reaches professionally.

Going forward, collectors will watch to see if Falter can cement himself as a full-time big leaguer. His cards from dominant minor league seasons like 2019 are primed to gain even more value retrospectively if he succeeds. Meanwhile, any future parallels or memorabilia from milestone MLB achievements would be tremendously desirable for Phillies PC builders and investors alike. There is much potential still left in Falter’s young career and the cards documenting it.

1981 FLEER BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 1981 Fleer baseball card set was the third release from the Fleer company and remains one of the most popular and collectible sets from the early 1980s. The 1981 cards built upon the foundation that Fleer had laid with their groundbreaking release in 1981 by continuing to innovate while also featuring some of the game’s biggest stars from that era. Despite coming out during the players strike that canceled the end of the 1981 season, these cards are still highly sought after by collectors today due to the star power, scarcity, and innovations they introduced.

One of the biggest selling points of the 1981 Fleer cards was the all-star lineup they featured. Arguably the biggest star of the bunch was Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and future Hall of Famer Fernando Valenzuela. “Fernando-mania” was sweeping the country in 1981 as the Mexican rookie sensation led the Dodgers to a World Series title. His rookie card from the 1981 Fleer set is considered one of the holy grails for Dodgers collectors. Other massive stars included on the checklist were Nolan Ryan, George Brett, Steve Garvey, Tom Seaver, Dave Winfield, and Reggie Jackson. Having so many true legends and Hall of Famers signed, sealed, and delivered to collectors in these packs made finding one of their cards a real thrill.

Beyond just the star power, the 1981 Fleer set also introduced some innovations that contributed to its lasting popularity and collectibility. For one, the cards featured a large colorful photograph on the front instead of traditional illustrations. This movie to photos was a big step in putting a more authentic and lifelike face to each player card. The set also only included 350 total cards rather than the usual 500-600 found in typical releases. This scarcity has helped maintain the set’s value over the decades. Perhaps most notably, the 1981 Fleer cards were the first to include a player’s career statistics and achievements on the back of the card rather than just generic baseball facts. This personalized the cards and statistics became a major component of the rookie card chase going forward.

While major innovation and star power drove initial collector interest, it has been the rarity and condition of the 1981 Fleer cards that has sustained their value long term. The set had a much smaller print run than Topps and many of the cards were pulled from packs in extremely off-center or damaged states straight from the factory. This has made high grade preserved copies of cards like Fernando Valenzuela, Nolan Ryan, and others exponentially more valuable as the years progressed. The set saw much less resale life after the initial release due to the players strike shortening that season. Many of the cards were lost, damaged, or taken out of circulation permanently much quicker than normal. All of these scarcity factors have kept mint condition copies highly coveted and costly to this day.

One card from the 1981 Fleer set stands out as arguably the most iconic and valuable of them all – the Mickey Mantle drawing card. Although not really a true “card”, it features a pencil sketch of the Yankees legend with career stats on the reverse. Only a small handful are known to exist in high grade today. The Mantle drawing was an innovative sneak preview of what autograph cards would become. It turned out to be extremely popular with collectors at the time yet now only the tightest ofCollector wallets can afford the six or even seven figure prices mint examples have sold for in recent decades. For a non-baseball card to be the most valuable from any set is a true testament to its importance in the hobby.

While the 1981 player’s strike was surely a disappointment for baseball fans at the time, it may have actually helped the popularity and collectibility of the 1981 Fleer cards in the long run. With a shortened season and lack of playoff games, collectors likely ripped more packs searching for their favorite stars. The cards have also maintained great nostalgia for anyone who collected in the early 80s. Almost forty years later, the innovations, photography, and gigantic future Hall of Famers make 1981 Fleer stand out as one of the true classics that still holds immense appeal for collectors today. Whether in collection or as an investment, these cards remain a cornerstone of the vintage hobby.

The 1981 Fleer baseball card set showcased massive future legends like Fernando Valenzuela and Nolan Ryan during a unique time in baseball history. Innovations like photography and statistics on the cards made them truly personalized collectibles. It has been the extreme scarcity and condition issues due to a small print run that sustain the monetary value of the set’s biggest hits today. Between the star power, innovations, and rarity factors, the 1981 Fleer baseballs cards maintain a beloved spot in the hearts of collectors and as one of the most iconic vintage releases ever produced.