Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

1977 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1977 baseball card season featured several rookie cards that have increased greatly in value. This was an exciting year in Major League Baseball that saw the emergence of future Hall of Famers and league MVPs. Nearly 50 years later, many 1977 baseball cards remain highly sought after by collectors and considered good long-term investments.

Perhaps the most valuable and iconic 1977 rookie card is that of Reggie Jackson of the New York Yankees. Known as “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, Jackson captivated New York and the country by helping lead the Yankees to three straight World Series titles from 1977-1978. His staggering regular season statistics and clutch playoff performances sealed his legacy as one of the great sluggers of his era. Jackson’s rookie card remains one of the most desirable in the hobby, with high grade copies regularly selling for well over $10,000 today. Even low-end, poor condition examples can still fetch $1,000 or more due to Jackson’s enduring popularity and status as a baseball icon.

Another top 1977 rookie card is that of Eddie Murray of the Baltimore Orioles. A durable slugger and future Hall of Famer, Murray tallied over 500 home runs and 3,000 hits over a 21-year career. He won two Silver Slugger awards and was the 1977 American League Rookie of the Year. Murray’s rookie is considered one of the most appealing Orioles cards ever produced. High grades have brought in upwards of $7,500, with average copies selling around $500-1,000. The card remains quite scarce in pristine “gem mint” condition.

The 1977 Topps set also featured the rookie cards of Hall of Famers Andre Dawson, Ozzie Smith, and Don Sutton. Dawson had an immediate impact for the Montreal Expos in 1977, batting .282 with 19 home runs and finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting. His explosive power and defensive skills would later earn him the nickname “The Hawk.” Dawson’s rookie card sells for $300-500 depending on condition. Ozzie Smith’s rookie highlighted his tremendous defensive wizardry at shortstop from day one with the San Diego Padres. Widely considered the greatest defensive infielder ever, even Smith’s low-grade rookie cards fetch $150-300 today. Don Sutton enjoyed a decorated career as one of the most durable pitchers in baseball history, winning 324 games over 23 seasons. His 1977 Topps RC carries a value of $75-150.

Aside from rookies, 1977 was the last season for future Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson with the Oakland A’s before his free agency and blockbuster trade to the New York Yankees prior to the 1978 season. Jackson’s final A’s card from 1977 is highly collectible and routinely sells for $300-600 based on condition due to his Oakland achievements and eventual embrace as a Bronx Bomber. Fred Lynn’s 1977 card from his American League MVP and Rookie of the Year season with the Boston Red Sox also remains desirable. Even well-worn copies trade hands for $150-250 due to Lynn’s exciting debut and championship performance.

The 1977 Topps set also marked the final card produced of Hall of Famer Ron Santo as a member of the Chicago Cubs. An outstanding offensive third baseman for over a decade on the North Side, Santo’s legacy and popularity have increased tremendously since his tragic passing in 2010. His 1977 Cubs card has seen a notable uptick in demand and interest in recent years, with prices ranging from $75-150 depending on condition. Other notables from the 1977 set include Nolan Ryan’s second season with the Angels after back-to-back no-hitters in 1973-74, as well as George Brett’s second card as the young star third baseman broke out for the Kansas City Royals. Ryan and Brett are generally $50-100 cards across different grades today.

While stars and future Hall of Famers garner top prices, the 1977 set remains loaded with valuable cult classics, oddballs, and low-numbered parallel inserts that excite collectors. Examples range from Don Baylor’s early Oriole years to David Cone’s rookie card showing promise with the Royals prior to a fine Yankees career two decades later. The 1977 set also saw the introduction of “Traded” photo variations starring Davey Lopes as a Dodger and Jim Rice as a budding superstar for the Boston Red Sox. These unique parallel cards command a hearty premium. The 1977 Topps baseball set features many notable and financially fruitful rookie cards, final season issues, MVPs and more that continue to retain long term collector interest and strong resale value decades later. The vintage 1970s design aesthetic mixed with emerging legends’ early careers makes 1977 a banner year in the hobby.

CIGAR BASEBALL CARDS

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Cigar Baseball Cards: A Unique Piece of Collectible History

Cigar manufacturers have a long history of including premiums, or small gifts, inside cigar boxes to help promote their brands. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when baseball was rapidly growing in popularity across America, many cigar companies decided to include small cardboard cards featuring photos and stats of famous baseball players as premiums. These unique collectibles became known as cigar baseball cards.

While they may not be as well known today as classic tobacco cards from the same era, cigar baseball cards offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection between two iconic American pastimes – baseball and cigar smoking. They helped drive sales for cigar brands at the height of the Tobacco Trust era while also satisfying the growing demand from fans to collect images and information about their favorite ballplayers.

The Rise of Cigar Baseball Cards

The earliest known cigar baseball cards date back to the late 1880s, right as the modern baseball card collecting craze was taking shape. Companies like Allen & Ginter and Goodwin & Company, famous for their tobacco cards, began including baseball players in their premium offerings packaged with cigars. It was specialized cigar manufacturers who truly popularized the cigar baseball card trend.

Brands like Henry Clay and Bock & Company focused exclusively on baseball subject matter for their cigar premiums. This was a savvy marketing tactic, directly appealing to the passions of devoted baseball and cigar fans. The cards measured around 2.5 x 3 inches and typically featured a color lithograph image of a ballplayer on one side with stats and brief bios on the reverse. Production quality was generally higher than contemporary tobacco cards.

Golden Age of Cigar Baseball Cards

The decade from roughly 1895 to 1905 is considered the true “Golden Age” of cigar baseball cards when sets from brands like El Sidelo, La Flor de Portuando, and Principe de Gales flooded the market. Top stars of the era like Honus Wagner, Nap Lajoie, and Cy Young regularly graced these premium cards inserted by the thousands into premium cigar boxes.

While their rarity and condition varied wildly based on how well the fragile cards were cared for over a century, finding high grade examples from this period in their original wrappers is a true collector’s dream. Prices can soar into the tens of thousands for the most desirable issues, especially if they feature a pre-rookie card of an all-time great like a T206 Honus Wagner.

Decline and Rediscovery

As the first decade of the 20th century came to a close, cigar baseball cards began to fade in popularity. The rise of modern tobacco card sets directly marketed to collectors supplanted cigar manufacturers as the dominant producers. A combination of social factors like the anti-tobacco movement and two world wars that disrupted cigar production overseas also contributed to the decline.

For decades, cigar baseball cards remained obscure relics known mainly to serious cigar and tobacco memorabilia collectors. But beginning in the 1990s, a rediscovery and resurgence of interest took place. As the vintage sports card market boomed, more collectors began seeking out these unique pieces of baseball’s earliest promotion and premium history embedded within the cigar industry.

Today, while production of new cigar baseball cards is nonexistent, vintage examples remain highly prized by both cigar and sports collecting communities. Advanced grading services allow for accurate condition assessment, and auction prices at major card shows demonstrate the strong ongoing demand. Whether encased in a tobacco shop’s humidor or a climate-controlled collection vault, cigar baseball cards continue telling the intertwined stories of America’s pastimes over a century later.

Cigar baseball cards offer a truly unique glimpse into the intersection of baseball fandom and cigar culture during baseball’s formative years in the late 19th century. While their popularity waned after 1905, dedicated collectors ensured these small but historically significant memorabilia survived to be rediscovered and appreciated by modern fans. Examples from the true “golden age” of 1895-1905 featuring the earliest images of all-time greats remain among the most coveted pieces of baseball collectibles.

10 MOST VALUABLE 1985 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1985 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the 1980s. Major stars like Rickey Henderson, Dwight Gooden, and Don Mattingly were entering their primes and featured on highly coveted rookie and star cards. While most cards from the set hold relatively modest value today, some have appreciating significantly over the decades. Here are the ten most valuable 1985 Topps baseball cards based on the card’s most recently sold price or current average asking price on the secondary market:

Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card (581) – Widely considered one of the greatest rookie cards of all time, Griffey’s 1985 Topps debut card is the clear king of the ’85 set. In pristine mint condition, examples have sold for over $100,000. Most gradeable copies trade hands for $5,000-$10,000 today depending on condition. Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie card remains one of the icons of the hobby.

Don Mattingly (540) – As one of the game’s biggest stars in the mid-1980s, Mattingly’s basic card holds substantial value, especially in high grades. Mint 9 copies routinely sell for $2,000-$3,000, with a PSA 10 bringing over $5,000. Even well-centered Near Mint examples can fetch $500-800. Mattingly was a 6-time All-Star and 1985 AL MVP during this stage of his excellent career.

Roger Clemens rookie card (181) – Like Griffey, Clemens’ rookie issue from his breakout 1985 season is highly coveted. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for up to $4,000. Most Near Mint to Mint graded cards will command $800-1500. Clemens went on to become a 7-time Cy Young winner, cementing this as one of the all-time great pitching rookie cards.

Donruss Dwight Gooden rookie card (148) – While not part of the flagship Topps set, Gooden’s iconic rookie from Donruss parallels his hugely popular Topps issue. Pristine PSA 10 examples have reached $3,000, with most Mint 9s selling in the $1,000-1500 range. As the 1985 NL Cy Young winner, Gooden burst onto the scene and his star rookie cards remain hot commodities.

Cal Ripken Jr. (557) – Ripken was already a 2-time All-Star by 1985 but hadn’t yet broken through as a superstar. His basic card is highly sought-after, with PSA 10s recently selling around $900-1000. Even well-centered Near Mint copies trade in the $300-500 range. Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record and cement this card’s place as a solid investment piece.

Rickey Henderson (192) – Already a perennial All-Star and base stealing machine by 1985, Henderson’s star was only beginning to rise. PSA 10 examples have reached $800, with most Mint 9s bringing $400-600. Even raw Near Mint copies can attract $150-200 based on sharpness and eye appeal. Henderson would go on to smash numerous offensive records and remains one of the greatest leadoff hitters ever.

Jack Morris (362) – Morris was already a workhorse by 1985 but entered superstar status during his 1984 World Series heroics. Pristine PSA 10s have climbed above $700, with most Mint 9s valued $300-500. Especially sharp Near Mint copies may sell for $150-250. Morris was the cornerstone of great Tiger staffs and won the 1991 World Series MVP.

Ozzie Smith (444) – The Wizard was already an excellent defensive shortstop by 1985, earning his first Gold Glove. Pristine PSA 10s have sold for up to $550, with most Mint 9s valued around $250-400. Even raw Near Mint examples can attract $100-150 based. Smith would cement his Hall of Fame legacy with 13 consecutive Gold Gloves between 1979-1991.

Dwight Gooden (226) – While not quite the rookie card buzz of the iconic 1984 Topps issue, Gooden’s main ’85 card remains highly sought after. PSA 10s have reached $450, with most Mint 9s valued around $200-300. Raw Near Mint copies occasionally sell for $100-150. Gooden’s dominance as the NL’s 1985 Cy Young winner keeps this one popular.

Gary Carter (221) – Already a fixture behind the plate for Montreal, Carter was a 6-time All-Star by 1985. High-grade examples have cracked $400 for a PSA 10, with most Mint 9s valued around $150-250. Even well-centered Near Mint copies can attract $75-100 based on demand. Carter was at the peak of his powers and on his way to Cooperstown.

While most 1985 Topps cards hold relatively modest value, the stars and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Clemens, Ripken, Henderson and others make this one of the set’s most collectible and valuable releases from the 1980s. Grading has helped unlock premium prices for pristine specimens, but there is also strong demand for well-centered raw examples of the set’s biggest names. The rookie cards of Griffey and Clemens are truly icons of the hobby but gems like Mattingly, Ripken, Gooden and more ensure this set remains a rewarding one for long-term investors.

2022 TOPPS CHROME BLACK BASEBALL CARDS

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2022 Topps Chrome Black Baseball Cards – An Elite Modern Product

The 2022 Topps Chrome baseball card release brought several exciting insert sets and parallels for collectors. One set stands above the rest in terms of mystique and premium appeal – 2022 Topps Chrome Black. These coveted black refractors hold iconic status among modern collectors. With incredible on-card autographs, striking photography, and a limited print run of only /10 copies, Topps Chrome Black epitomizes the high-end collector experience. Let’s take a deeper look at everything that makes these cards so special.

Introduction and History

Topps Chrome Black parallels have been a fixture of Topps Chrome releases for over a decade. They first appeared in 2011 as an ultra-short printed parallel featuring some of the set’s biggest stars. Originally limited to just /5 copies, the black parallels immediately developed a cult following among collectors chasing the rarest and most visually appealing cards in the set. Over the years, Topps has tweaked the print runs slightly but the allure of Chrome Black has only increased. They represent the pinnacle of any given Chrome release and always feature the hottest rookie talents and established superstars.

2022 Design and Photography

For 2022, Topps delivered another stunning Chrome Black design. Featuring vivid color photography against a black refractor backdrop, these cards simply pop right off the shelves. The photos showcase an array of dramatic action shots, candid poses, and classic pitcher/batter matchups. Topps photography has improved tremendously in recent years and these images do a fantastic job of capturing the essence of each player and moment in time. Under PSA/BGS magnification, you can appreciate every minute detail from the stitching on uniforms to players’ facial expressions. It’s easy to get lost admiring the incredible craft behind each image.

hits and Autographs

In addition to stunning visuals, Chrome Black delivers the true grail inserts collectors crave – lucrative on-card autographs. Unlike ordinary base autos, these signatures truly shine thanks to the black refractor substrate. Each autograph pops with vibrant colors and sharp details. Top rookies like Julio Rodriguez, Spencer Strider, and Bobby Witt Jr. landed certified autographs in this exclusive parallel. But veteran superstars also contributed, with Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Ronald Acuna Jr. earning ultra-rare signed Black refractors of their own. For auto chase collectors, 2022 Chrome Black had something for everyone.

Short Prints and Variations

As with every edition of Chrome Black, Topps employed various techniques to further limit the print runs. Some spanned multiple players while others singled out individual superstars. For example, an /8 variation of Aaron Judge joined other Yankees in an extremely short print Yankees tandem. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Wander Franco each landed personal /5 variations as well. Even rarer were proof variations like a double exposed /1 printing featuring Juan Soto. With so many innovative short prints in just 10 total copies, no two 2022 Chrome Black collections are alike.

Grading, Pricing, and Demand

Given how aesthetically stunning and statistically rare these cards are straight out of packs, PSA and BGS submissions saw huge 2022 Topps Chrome Black volumes right away. Early returns revealed an exceptionally high premium gem rate too. While a few low-grade examples still circulate, the overwhelming majority landed pristine 9.5 and 10 designations. This superior quality control further boosted prices into the stratosphere overnight. Flagship rookies like Rodriguez, Witt, and Strider routinely bring over $1000 PWCC auction prices even in PSA 10. Triple-digit prices are common for solid veterans and stars too. With such appreciating blue-chip assets, building a complete 2022 Chrome Black set presents an immense long-term collecting challenge. Demand will remain through the years as these ultra-premium modern parallels become an integral part of the collecting landscape.

Summary

From exclusivity of design to variety of short prints and autographs, 2022 Topps Chrome Black delivered an unparalleled high-end product experience. With incredible photography, razor-sharp production quality, iconic rookie talent, and intrinsic longterm financial upside, these cards check every modern collector’s boxes. They have undoubtedly cemented their status as the pinnacle modern parallels one can acquire. For years to come, 2022 Chrome Black will stand as one of the true elite modern releases that history looks upon fondly.

VALUE OF 1958 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1958 Topps baseball card set is one of the most highly collected issues in the hobby. Coming two years after the hugely popular 1956 Topps set which featured rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Willie Mays and Don Drysdale, the 1958 set continued Topps’ dominance of the baseball card market. Several key factors contribute to the enduring value and popularity of 1958 Topps cards over 60 years later.

The 1958 set was the first year Topps used the modern size and photo style that would become the standard for cards going forward. Previously, Topps issues from the 1950s had featured smaller card sizes with group or action photos on many cards. In 1958, Topps transitioned to the now-familiar 3.5″ x 2.5″ cardboard card stock with individual player portraits on the front of each card. This set the template for the classic baseball card design that is still used today. Additionally, 1958 Topps was the first year the cards featured a simple white border design around the photo, which became a Topps trademark for decades. The cleaner, basic look of these cards has stood the test of time far better than the ornate, gaudy designs of some earlier 1950s sets.

Another key aspect of 1958 Topps cards was their introduction of the modern tracking numbering system still used across the hobby. Each card in the set was assigned a unique number from 1 to 409, with the early cards featuring future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Warren Spahn. This organization made it simple for collectors to fill complete sets, track down needed cards, and lent authority to the checklist. Having unique tracking numbers increased the appeal and popularity of set collecting.

Rookie cards of future legends also made their debut in the 1958 Topps set and are highly valuable today. Perhaps the most famous and valuable is the Mickey Mantle rookie, card #257, of which only about 50 mint condition copies are known to exist. Mantle is considered the greatest switch hitter of all-time and one of the best players of the post-World War II era. His rookie card regularly sells for over $1 million in gem mint condition. Other incredible rookies included Hall of Famers like Bob Gibson at #337, Willie McCovey at #366, and Don Drysdale at #398. These are iconic cards that commemorate the beginning of careers for legends on baseball’s biggest stage.

In terms of production numbers, the 1958 Topps baseball card set had a print run estimated between 50-60 million units. While an enormous figure for the late 1950s, this print run pales in comparison to modern issues with runs measured in the billions. Accordingly, higher grade samples from the 1958 set have increased in scarcity over the decades. The smaller print run also means flawed or damaged examples from this vintage are far rarer to find today than equivalently graded cards from later overprinted years. Condition thus becomes all-important to the value calculus of 1958 Topps.

As the hobby grew exponentially larger beginning in the 1980s, the 1958 Topps set cemented its status among the most collected vintage issues. The perfect storm of debuting design innovations like photo size and numbering, iconic rookie cards, and comparatively smaller original print run made these cards highly attractive to both casual and advanced collectors. Prices have steadily risen ever since as demand outstrips the supply of nicely preserved samples surviving from 1958.

When looking at individual card values from the 1958 Topps set, several trends emerge based on player, condition, and card number desirability:

Common players in Excellent/Very Good condition range from $10-100.

More desirable common players or those with team changes can reach $200-500 in top grades.

Star players start at $500+ in VG-EX and multiple thousands in Mint condition.

Iconic rookie cards start in the hundreds for VG/EX and reach five-figures and up in Mint.

Mickey Mantle’s #257 rookie is worth $100,000+ in EX and $1M+ in PSA/BGS 10 Gem Mint.

Low-numbered cards under #100 tend to have premiums over equivalently graded higher numbers.

Error variations like the mini Mantle or striped backs can reach the tens of thousands.

condition and scarcity define the value of 1958 Topps cards more than any other factor. Six decades after production, pristine examples remain some of the rarest and most valuable vintage sports cards that can be found. For collectors and investors, this set established standards still setting the model today.

The combination of design innovation, rookie mainstays, comparatively smaller print run, and following gained over 60+ years makes the 1958 Topps baseball card set one of the most beloved and recognizable issues in the entire hobby. Condition will always be paramount, but even well-loved examples will retain value from this storied release that introduced so many firsts to the sport of card collecting. The 1958 Topps cards truly enshrine a turning point in the industry toward its modern structure.

VALUE ON BASEBALL CARDS

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The value of baseball cards depends on a variety of factors that can determine how much a card is worth. Over the decades, some cards have increased exponentially in value while others have remained relatively inexpensive. For collectors and sellers alike, understanding what influences a card’s price tag can help both properly assess value and make informed purchases or sales.

One of the primary drivers of value is a card’s condition, or state of preservation. The better condition a card is in, the more it will usually sell for. There are several grading scales used by services like PSA and BGS to rate a card’s condition on a numerical scale. A “mint” or “near mint” graded card in a protective holder can be worth significantly more than a copy that is worn, faded, or damaged. Subtle imperfections in the borders, centering, or surfaces downgrade a card’s condition grade and trim its potential price. Generally speaking, the closer a card is to perfect “gem mint” condition, the greater collectors will pay for it.

In addition to condition, the specific player featured heavily impacts baseball card value. Legendary all-time greats like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Ken Griffey Jr. will always retain substantial worth because of their iconic status in the game. Rarer rookie cards or cards highlighting notable achievements can command premium prices for star players. For most MLB careers, value peaks during or shortly after that athlete’s playing days when nostalgia and popularity are highest. Upon retirement, a singular star’s cards may hold value but more common copies usually decline over the long run. Conversely, young players early in their career with future potential have relatively inexpensive rookie cards that could appreciate greatly down the line should they achieve superstar success.

The year a card was printed also shapes its price point. Early 20th century tobacco cards from the 1910s and 1920s along with the earliest post-World War 2 issues like 1952 Topps are among the most coveted and valuable in the entire hobby due to their great rarity. Condition is even more critical for cards over 50-60 years old as finding them intact is an extreme challenge. On the other hand, many modern mass-produced cards from the last 30 years lack the scarcity of early issues and rely more on starring truly elite players to retain long-term collectibility. Supply and demand inherently impact baseball card worth based on yearly production numbers.

Specific parallels, short prints, autographs, memorabilia cards with swatches of uniforms also create premium “insert” cards above the normal base set issues. Numbered serially, autographed by the athlete, or containing rare on-card relics, these specialty cards command a higher value than an ordinary copy overall given their extra scarcity, historical connection, and collectible appeal to dedicated investors. Numbered to under 100 copies for example, such cards can reach thousands, tens of thousands, or in some exceptional cases, over $100,000 for a true “holy grail” piece in a collection.

Whether an individual card increases, maintains, or loses value tends to follow greater fluctuations in the broader sports collectibles market. Periods of intense speculation drive short-term price spikes across all commodities including cards while economic recessions commonly cause a related slump. Long-term appreciation requires continued collector interest over generations to sustain demand. How well a player’s legacy withstands the tests of time also shapes how their collectibles hold up as coveted relics of sports history decades later. Ultimately, properly researching all pertinent date, condition, signature and production details allows discerning the realistic value and investment potential of any given baseball card based on scarcity, demand, and collectible nostalgia it retains in the collecting community.

The condition, specific player featured, year of issue, parallel variations, autographs or memorabilia included, overall rarity, long-term collecting demand cycles, and consistency of performances all interact to establish a baseball card’s price tag for sellers and collectors alike. Understanding these myriad influences making each card truly unique historically helps buyers avoid overpaying and sellers obtain a fair value reflective of the item’s popularity and position within the vast wider world of sports collectibles. With care, research, and market savvy, the card collecting hobby remains a gratifying pursuit with enduring value propositions for passionate investors.

MOST POPULAR 1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Donruss baseball set was one of the most popular and valuable releases of the late 80s and early 90s. The 1990 Donruss set showcased the biggest stars and rookie talents of that era in a classic design that still holds nostalgic appeal for collectors today. Some of the most coveted and expensive individual cards from the 1990 Donruss set include:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered one of the top rookie cards of all time, Griffey’s 1990 Donruss rookie is one of the most iconic baseball cards ever produced. Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and was already regarded as a can’t-miss superstar when this rookie card was released. PSA 10 examples of Griffey’s 1990 Donruss rookie routinely sell for well over $10,000 and some have sold for as much as $25,000+, making it arguably the most valuable common card from the 1990 Donruss set.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card: Like Griffey, Frank Thomas’ rookie season was 1990 and his Donruss rookie perfectly captures the start of what would become a great career. Thomas won MVP awards and hit over .300 for much of his career. High-graded Thomas rookies from 1990 Donruss can fetch $1,000+ today.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card: Alomar won rookie of the year honors in 1990 and went on to have a Hall of Fame career as a perennial all-star and gold glove second baseman. His 1990 Donruss rookie is a key card for Blue Jays and baseball card investors alike, with PSA 10 examples selling in the $500+ range.

Nolan Ryan Record Breaker Card: This iconic Nolan Ryan card from the base set captures him breaking Sandy Koufax’s strikeout record. It’s one of the most historically significant visuals from the long, impressive career of Ryan, one of the best pitchers ever. High-grade examples command $100+ due to collector demand.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card: Bonds’ rookie season was 1986 but his baseball card truly exploded in popularity and value after he broke the single season home run record in 2001. His 1990 Donruss card, in the midst of his early Pirates career, still garners attention as a key piece of his collecting puzzle. PSA 10 grades sell for $200+.

Ken Griffey Sr. Superstar Image: One of the inserts in 1990 Donruss was the “Superstar Image” parallel set featuring bigger than normal photos of stars from the late 80s and early 90s. Griffey Sr’s card in this parallel set alongside his son’s rookie is a fun collectible that sells for $50-100.

Other stars well-represented in the base set that draw attention include Mark McGwire, Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, Cal Ripken Jr., Roger Clemens, and Ozzie Smith. The design of the 1990 Donruss set has held up very well, with a classic white border framing solid photography of the players. While production numbers were high for a 1990s set, the pull rates on bigger stars and popular rookies were still low enough to generate demand that endures today.

In addition to the base set, 1990 Donruss included several popular inserts that added to the excitement opening packs. The “Diamond Kings” parallel featured refractive photo variations of stars. “Record Breakers” highlighted major career milestones beyond just the Nolan Ryan featured in the base set. An “All-Star Image” parallel showed bigger photos similar to the Griffey Sr. “Superstar Image” mentioned earlier.

The 1990 Donruss set helped cement baseball cards as a mainstream hobby in the early 90s collector boom. Its affordable prices and availability in most general hobby shops and drug stores made it an accessible way for many young fans to get cards of their favorite new players like Griffey and Frank Thomas. While the junk wax era diluted some long term value for sets from this period, 1990 Donruss has proven remarkably resilient thanks to strong rookies, inserts, and designs that still look fresh today. For both nostalgia and strong single card values, it remains one of the most beloved Donruss releases.

The combination of all-time rookie stars, iconic career moments, fun parallels and inserts, and classic graphic design give the 1990 Donruss baseball card set lasting popularity and collector interest to this day. Keys cards like the Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas rookies rightly maintain their status as true icons of the hobby. But lesser-known cards like the Nolan Ryan record breaker or Ken Griffey Sr. Superstar Image show how versatile and enjoyable the complete 1990 Donruss set remains for collectors. Its popularity endures because it perfectly captured the biggest names and best moments at the start of the 1990s in cards that remain a pleasure to own and trade today.

MOST VALUABLE 1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable vintage sets from the golden era of the 1980s. While it didn’t feature any true superstar rookies, there are several key cards that have stood the test of time and gained significant value over the past 35+ years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1986 Topps cards collectors seek out today.

One of the most desired 1986 Topps cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card (#616). Although Griffey Jr. didn’t make his MLB debut until late in the 1987 season with the Seattle Mariners, his rookie card status and iconic photo wearing a Cincinnati Reds batting helmet made this one of the more identifiable and collectible cards from the set right from the start. In mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s 1986 Topps rookie has climbed steadily in value and can now fetch prices upwards of $700-$1000 raw or $1500-$2000 graded mint. With Griffey Jr. considered one of the greatest players of all-time and his smooth left-handed swing still beloved by baseball fans, there’s no sign of his rookie card losing popularity anytime soon.

Another notable rookie card from 1986 is that of future Hall of Famer Barry Bonds (#639). While Bonds wouldn’t rise to superstardom until the 1990s with Pittsburgh, his prospect status and lofty pedigree as the son of former MLB player Bobby Bonds made his Topps debut card popular even back in the 1980s. For the raw 1986 Bonds rookie in near-mint or better condition, expect to pay $300-$500 today. Get it professionally graded at NM-MT+ or higher and the price jumps up considerably, with gem mint PSA 10 examples bringing four-figure prices.

Staying on the rookie card theme, slugger Mark McGwire’s first Topps issue (#250) is a card in growing demand. McGwire broke in with the A’s in 1987 and would go on have one of the most prolific power hitting careers in baseball history, smashing the single-season home run record in 1998. While he doesn’t carry the same widespread name recognition or “clean” image of Griffey or Bonds, serious collectors appreciate McGwire’s Hall of Fame stats and historical significance. In top grades of PSA 9-10, his 1986 rookie has climbed north of $1500 over the past five years.

One of the more visually striking and iconic 1986 Topps cards is that depicting slugging outfielder Andre Dawson on the Chicago Cubs (#384). Nicknamed “The Hawk,” Dawson is immortalized leaping after a fly ball with Wrigley Field’s iconic home run statue in the background. Beyond the classic ballpark photo, Dawson’s credentials as an eight-time All-Star and 1987 NL MVP have elevated the value of this mid-1980s issue to well over $100 even in low-grade raw form. A PSA 9 copy is regularly a $400+ card, with that price more than doubling in pristine mint 10 condition.

Besides rookies, 1986 Topps is also home to several key cards featuring already established stars that have gained value over time. Of these, the most in-demand for high-end collectors are the flagship cards featuring prolific hitters like Wade Boggs (#5), Mike Schmidt (#68), and Tim Raines (#137). Boggs’ smooth left-handed batting stance at the plate, Schmidt launching a homer as an eternal Phillies great, and Raines’ action shot on the basepaths – these iconic player photos tied to all-time great careers have resonated with collectors for decades. Top graded specimens in the PSA 9-10 range now sell for $500-1000 each.

Transitioning back to rookie status, 1986 Topps also gave baseball fans their first look at future legend Tom Glavine on the Braves (#550). Glavine wouldn’t make his MLB debut until 1987 but was already a highly touted young lefty pitching prospect at the time. Today, graded gem mint PSA 10 copies of Glavine’s 1986 Topps rookie are true holy grails, fetching prices above $5000. Even lower PSA 9 condition copies still command $800-1200 in today’s market. As one of the greatest left-handed pitchers of all-time and an integral part of Atlanta’s 1990s dynasty, Glavine has emerged as one of the truly elite investment-level cards from the 1980s set.

While not true rookie cards, 1986 Topps finally gave fans high-quality full color versions of Hank Aaron and Willie Mays, two of the game’s true Mt. Rushmore legends. Aaron’s regal (#25) and Mays’ action-packed (#118) player photos pay homage to their Hall of Fame careers. These are absolute cornerstone cards for any vintage baseball collection. Pristine PSA 10 examples in particular are truecondition census cards that don’t come on the market often, with 4-figure price tags when they do. Even well-worn raw copies still hold strong value north of $50 in the collecting community.

In summation, while the 1986 Topps set lacked true “superstar rookies” like a Griffey Jr. or Bonds, it still features many coveted cards that have proven to be sound long-term investments. Focusing on the best rookie cards of McGwire, Glavine and Bonds as well as key issues starring established stars like Dawson, Boggs and the all-time greats Aaron and Mays, savvy collectors can uncover true dormant gems from the 1980s that are poised to keep appreciating for years to come. With its classic player photos and connection to baseball’s golden era, 1986 Topps endures as one of the most iconic and collectible vintage sets in the hobby.

1991 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 1991 Fleer baseball card set featured cards for all major and minor league players as well as managers, coaches and officials. The set totaled 792 cards and was the only Fleer checklist issued that year. Fleer lost the MLB license after the 1991 season to Upper Deck.

While not as valuable as some iconic vintage sets from the 1950s and 60s, the 1991 Fleer cards have developed a following among collectors in recent years. With the advent of the internet and online auction sites like eBay, there is now a very active market for these cards from when many current collectors were children.

The top rookie cards and stars from the early 1990s tend to be the most in demand and valuable from the 1991 Fleer set. Some notable rookie and star cards that often sell for $20 or more include Reggie Sanders, Jeff Bagwell, Kenny Lofton, Andy Benes, David Justice, Eric Davis, Tom Glavine, Gary Sheffield, Frank Thomas, John Kruk and Terry Pendleton.

Powerhouse rookie cards like those of Barry Bonds and Curt Schilling can often fetch $50-100 depending on condition. An mint condition Bonds rookie has sold for over $500. Superstars like Cal Ripken Jr, Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith and Kirby Puckett command $10-25 each normally.

The 1991 Fleer set is known for its photo variation parallels. Many cards were printed with two slightly different action photos on the front. These photo variations, while usually not drastically different pictures, are popular with advanced collectors trying to complete rainbow sets with all variations. Variations can increase a card’s value by 25-50% depending on the player.

Condition is very important when evaluating the true value of any 1991 Fleer card. Like most older cardboard, these cards are quite fragile and prone to damage from aging, bending, creasing or surface wear over 30 years. Near mint to mint copies in sleeves are usually required to achieve higher prices. Heavily played cards may only be worth a couple dollars even for big stars.

The most expensive regular issue card from the 1991 Fleer set is likely the Frank Thomas rookie card #234. High grade Thomas rookies in near mint to mint condition with strong centering can bring $200-300. Pristine copies that grade gem mint 10 can sell for well over $1000. A PSA 10 Thomas rookie set a record when it sold for $27,912.50 on eBay in early 2022.

Back in the early 90s, Star cards and commons from the 1991 Fleer set retailed for around 50 cents to a few dollars apiece. Some stars boxes like Frank Thomas retailed for $1.50-2 each. Today, even very low-end common players can be 25 cents or more. But the true stars, rookies and key cards have appreciated greatly due to nostalgia and increased collector demand over the decades.

The market values for 1991 Fleer cards continue to rise gradually year after year. There are still plenty of unopened wax packs and factory sets available for purchase at online auction sites. But with each passing season, more of these packs are cracked open while sealed sets become increasingly scarce. This supplies and demand dynamic helps lift prices overall for vintage 90s cards as time goes on.

Higher graded specimens in top population holders like PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 have seen the greatest appreciation. Six figure auction prices are not unheard of now for true 9.5-10 condition gems of the biggest stars and rookies. The 1991 Fleer set may never reach the astronomical levels of the iconic 1952 Topps or 1954 Topps sets. But for collectors of 1980s-90s cardboard, the 1991 checklist remains one of the most revered and collected from that era.

1991 Fleer is a true snapshot of the MLB in that transitional early 90s period right before the ascension of superstars like Griffey Jr, Bonds, and A-Rod. Rookies like Thomas, Sheffield, Bagwell, and Maddux were just arriving on the scene. Career leaders like Ripken, Gwynn, and Molitor were in their primes. The 1991 edition was the last Fleer set before the appearance of the acclaimed Upper Deck brand in 1989 shook up the sports card market forever. All these factors make the 1991 Fleer baseball cards a nostalgic favorite for collectors and an historically important release worthy of further appreciation.

While perhaps not equal in cachet to the esteemed vintage 1951 Bowman or 1969 Topps sets today, high quality examples of cards from the 1991 Fleer checklist are attractive investment pieces for savvy collectors. With strong, consistent demand to own a piece of the early 90s MLB, prices for this iconic release should continue rising gradually but steadily well into the future.

GOOD 1970 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1970 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the top vintage sets to collect from the 1960s and 1970s era. Featuring 660 total cards spanning all the major league players and managers from the 1969 season, the 1970 Topps release contained several chase cards that are highly coveted by collectors today due to their historical significance, statistical achievements, and relative scarcity in high grade. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the best and most valuable 1970 Topps cards to seek out in a collection.

Perhaps the most iconic card from the 1970 Topps set is the Nolan Ryan rookie card. As one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Ryan made his Topps debut in 1970 after just one season in the major leagues with the New York Mets. While not entirely rare in terms of print run, high grade Nolan Ryan rookies have consistently risen in value over the decades to become truly legendary cards in the hobby. A PSA 10 example of the Ryan 1970 Topps rookie is currently valued over $35,000, showing just how important his early career cards remain to this day.

Another hugely significant rookie card found in the 1970 set is that of Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson. Known equally for his prodigious home run power and flair for the dramatic, “Mr. October” broke into the league the previous year with the Oakland A’s. Reggie’s impressive rookie season stats combined with his legendary five-home run performance in the 1977 World Series have cemented this as one of the true great rookie cards in baseball history. Like Ryan, high grade examples suitable for PSA/BGS slabbing fetch prices well into the thousands.

Continuing with the rookie theme, collectors should also target the 1970 debut issues of star pitchers Vida Blue and Tom Seaver. Blue would go on to win the 1971 Cy Young award as arguably baseball’s best arm, while Seaver achieved even greater feats winning three total Cy Youngs during his extraordinary career. Both Blue and Seaver rookies showcased on the mound in 1969, setting the stage for what was to come. Condition sensitive but still quite affordable in lower grades.

Moving beyond rookies, two particularly valuable regular issues found throughout the 1970 Topps set are those depicting iconic career milestones – Hank Aaron’s 715th home run and Willie Mays’ 3000th hit. Aaron’s chase and eventual passing of Babe Ruth on the all-time home runs list in 1974 was a massive cultural moment. Meanwhile, Mays becoming just the third player to join the 3000 hit club further cemented his place as one of the all-time greats. High grade copies of these milestone cards can sell for well over $1000 each.

Condition is always key when considering older vintage cards like those from the 1970 Topps set. While tougher to grade 10 on the modern grading scales compared to later ’80s releases, pristine copies with sharp corners, clean surfaces and strong centering still demand big prices today. This includes true mint PSA/BGS 9 examples, which serve as equally desirable above average survivors from this era. Another characteristic of 1970s cardboard quality is the usage of thinner stock paper stock which is more prone to creasing/bends over time versus later cardboard.

In exploring the 1970 Topps set thoroughly, collectors would also be wise to target cards of other all-time great players near or at the height of their careers like Johnny Bench, Carl Yastrzemski, Tom Seaver, and multiple future Hall of Famers. High grades of any true superstars will perform well long term. While not necessarily the most acclaimed design, the 1970 issue marks an important transition point capturing stars of both the 1960s and those who would rise to dominance in the decade ahead. For these reasons, it remains one of the best vintage sets for investing in the rich history of baseball cards.

The 1970 Topps release commemorated the final season of the 1960s and contained several rookies and career highlights that have become seminal issues over the decades. Cards like the Nolan Ryan and Reggie Jackson rookies paired with the Aaron and Mays milestone cards lead the way in terms of all-time desirability and value. Condition sensitive copies of any true baseball legends featured throughout the 660 card checklist have great potential. For collectors seeking iconic pieces of the vintage collecting era, the 1970 Topps set deserves a strong look.