Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

BEST LOOKING TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to collecting vintage baseball cards, many collectors seek out the most visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing designs produced over the decades by Topps. As the longest running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps has released thousands of baseball card designs since first entering the market in the 1950s. Within their massive catalog are many standouts that are considered some of the best looking cards ever made. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of Topps’ most attractive baseball card designs.

We’ll start in the 1950s, widely considered the golden age of baseball cards due to the simplicity and charm of the designs from that era. One of the cleanest and most iconic early designs was the 1955 Topps set. Featuring bold solid colors, large centered photos of the players, and basic white borders, these cards established a template that would influence the hobby for decades to come. The minimalist style allowed the photos to really pop. Upper-end graded examples with their vivid colors still intact are highly sought after by collectors.

Moving into the 1960s, many Topps sets from this decade are also strong contenders for best design. The 1964 issue had a very basic yet appealing look with mostly solo shot photos against a white backdrop. Another favorite is the 1968 set, known for its fun retro illustrations and bold rainbow color scheme on the borders. The 1969 cards also featured outstanding far-out psychedelic designs that perfectly captured the aesthetic of that era. High-grade versions command top dollar due to their impressive state of preservation and good looks.

The 1970s saw Topps continue to experiment with different artistic approaches. Sets like 1972 and 1973 had a very graphic and modern vibe with geometric color blocks and solid colors. The 1975 issue took a more nostalgic route with its faux aged look and sepia tones. But one of the true show-stoppers from the decade was the iconic 1977 design. Featuring solo glamour shots, metallic silver borders, and a regal overall appearance, these remain some of the most visually striking cards ever created. In top grades, ‘77s are absolute museum pieces.

In the 1980s, Topps settled into a signature photographic style that would last through much of the decade. Clean and high-quality action shots were the standard, resulting in many great looking designs. The 1982, 1984, and 1985 issues are often cited as some of the best. Another favorite was the 1987 set, which featured bold primary colors and a classic rectangular shape. Top graded ‘87s really pop on the shelf. The late ‘80s also saw Topps experiment with creative signatures and on-card autographs that added interest.

The 1990s saw the introduction of more modern innovations like borderless designs, team-centric theme sets, and insert cards with hitters against colorful graphic backgrounds. The 1992 Stadium Club set took borderless photography to a new level with its oversized white frames. Ultra-high grade versions have a spectacular look. Another favorite was the 1995 Topps set, known for its innovative design that placed the subject against a colored baseball pattern background in each card’s front image area. The 1998 Bowman’s Best autograph cards also featured some of the best photography of the decade.

In the 2000s and 2010s, Topps continued pushing the boundaries with new technologies and multi-level designs. Textured signature and patch cards became more prevalent. The 2008 Topps Opening Day set had a very clean and modern look with its borderless horizontal layout. The 2013 Topps Update baseball cards featured some of the best action photography of the decade. More recent sets have incorporated dazzling color gradients, dynamic poses, and various parallel and short-print variations to appeal to collectors.

Over its 70+ year history in the baseball card market, Topps has released hundreds of fantastic looking designs that still hold up today. From the nostalgic charm of the 1950s, to the psychedelic 1960s, to the graphic 1970s, to the modern innovations of the 2000s and beyond – Topps has consistently pushed the artistic boundaries of sports card design. Their vast catalog contains many contenders for the title of best looking baseball card set of all-time. The top choices often come down to personal preference, but there is no doubt Topps has left an immense visual legacy within the hobby.

VALUE OF BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1968

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The 1968 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. While it may not contain cards that are worth quite as much as sets produced in the 1950s and 1960s, the 1968 Topps set holds significant nostalgia and value for collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes cards from this set valuable and how their worth is determined.

1968 was a transformative year for Major League Baseball. The league officially expanded by adding franchises in Kansas City and Seattle. Hall of Famers like Bob Gibson, Roberto Clemente, and Willie McCovey were playing at the peak of their careers. Topps captured all the action and excitement on the fields with its colorful and creative card designs. While it utilized the same basic template as other issues from the mid-1960s, the 1968 set just pops with its vivid colors and eye-catching photography.

Nearly 50 years later, collectors still get excited when putting together a complete 1968 Topps set. Its retro designs have stood the test of time. The nostalgia factor is a key driver of value for any vintage cards, but 1968’s play a special role in the memories of Baby Boomers who collected them as kids. This sentimental attachment leads to strong ongoing demand and helps prices hold steady even as the card stock continues to age.

When judging the worth of individual 1968 Topps cards, there are several attributes that appraisers look at closely:

Player Prominence: Cards featuring superstar players from that era like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Mickey Mantle will always demand higher prices than more obscure players. The bigger the name, the more valuable the card historically.

Rookie Cards: If a player went on to have a Hall of Fame career, their first major league card holds special significance for collectors. Rookies of Nolan Ryan, Reggie Jackson, and Johnny Bench can be worth hundreds to even thousands in top grades due to their star power.

Autographs: Signed cards dramatically increase in value, sometimes exponentially. An autograph authenticated the card’s authenticity. Signed 1968 Topps cards are especially rare to come across in the vintage market.

Condition: Like any collectible, condition is paramount. Near Mint cards in grades of 7-9 on the 1-10 scale are most valuable. Heavily played or damaged cards may only have value to collectors looking to complete a set affordably regardless of condition.

Parallel Short Prints: Topps inserted parallel short prints of selected cards marked “SP” into random packs. These scarce variations are highly sought and can demand big premiums over the standard issue, sometimes 10x or more. Example: Nolan Ryan’s short print regularly sells for well over $1,000.

Let’s look at some actual sales figures and estimated values for selected 1968 Topps cards to demonstrate how these factors influence price:

#1 Hank Aaron: In Near Mint condition, his flagship card typically ranges $15-25. An autographed example could draw $500-1000+ depending on authenticity confirmation.

#250 Reggie Jackson (Rookie): One of the most iconic and valuable rookies from the set. NM/MT examples sell between $100-250 due to Jackson’s legendary career and star power.

#334 Nolan Ryan (Rookie): Equally as coveted as Reggie’s due to Ryan’s pitching dominance and records. Comparable value to Jackson’s in top grades.

#507 Willie Mays: Considered the best all-around player of his generation. NM copies still sell for $10-20 despite his on-card aging appearance.

#573 Mickey Mantle: The iconic Yankee slugger. Even heavily played examples have value to collectors at $5-10. Near pristine copies could bring $75-100+.

#610 Bob Gibson: The intimidating Cardinal ace. A NM Gibson rookie would bring $40-60 on the market presently.

While some ultra high-end hobby investors may seek out pristine vintage cards as an alternative asset class, most enthusiasts simply enjoy 1968 Topps for their nostalgia and affordable prices relative to 1950s issues. With strong collectors market demand sustained over many decades, cards from this iconic set hold enduring value as affordable pieces of baseball history.

What matters most for 1968 Topps cards is attracting buyers who remember and respect what these retro designs meant to them as kids. Solid research, smart long-term saving strategies, and a keen eye can reward patient collectors with valuable pieces of American sports memorabilia history for generations to come.

1994 PINNACLE BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 1994 baseball card season marked a pivotal year in the height of the 1990s baseball card bubble. While interest and prices had started to decline from the peak of the late 1980s, 1994 cards still held a tremendous amount of value and nostalgia for collectors. This was the year that really signified the end of the “junk wax era” of mass produced cards that flooded the market in the 1980s.

Some of the most coveted rookie and star cards came out of packs in 1994. The rookie class that year featured future Hall of Famers like Jeff Bagwell, Frank Thomas, and Ken Griffey Jr. But perhaps no other card captured more attention than the ultra-rare Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie that was only available through a special mail-in offer. Very few of these “blue starter set” cards exist today in pristine condition, making it one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever released.

Upper Deck held mystique as the premier brand even as competition rose. Their quality, attention to detail, and scarcity drove hype and prices higher than any other brand. For collectors, pulling a Griffey Jr. UD rookie straight from a pack in ’94 was like hitting the lottery. Even today, this card regularly breaks auction records in the $100,000+ range when graded mint or better.

Another hugely popular Upper Deck issue was their Alex Rodriguez rookie card. While A-Rod had yet to become the household name and superstar he would, collectors recognized his talent right away. His hype was perhaps second only to Griffey that year among rookies. Rodriguez UD rookie PSA 10 examples today often sell for tens of thousands.

For star veterans, probably no player was hotter or more collected than Frank Thomas in 1994. “The Big Hurt” was coming off back-to-back AL MVP awards and his dominant offensive stats translated to soaring card values. The Thomas Upper Deck SP card, with its stunning photo and great stats on the back, was maybe the most coveted veteran card of the year.

The rookie class of ’94 also included future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones, who debuted that season with the Atlanta Braves. While not as heralded at the time as Griffey Jr. or A-Rod, Chipper Jones’ star power and performance over nearly two decades has made his rookie cards steadily appreciate in value. The Fleer Ultra Chipper Jones rookie in particular has become a fan favorite thanks to the memorable snapshot image.

Two other future Hall of Famers debuted rookie cards in 1994 that also hold strong collector interest today – Moises Alou with the Expos and Vladimir Guerrero with the Montréal Expos. Like Jones, Alou and Guerrero developed into perennial All-Stars over long, productive careers that have amplified appreciation for their early cards issued when they were largely unknown prospects.

Donruss Optic also had a major impact in 1994 with its innovative hologram technology on cards. The design really popped and the set attracted plenty of collectors. Ken Griffey Jr. was again one of the big hits, while other stars like Frank Thomas, Jeff Bagwell, and Roberto Alomar had particularly eye-catching Optic cards that year as well.

Upper Deck had a strong vintage feel to many of its photographic cards that season too. The ’59 designs paid homage to classic baseball photography of the 1950s. Stars like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Rickey Henderson were among those featured in the innovative vintage photo-style issue that have become fan favorites.

Bowman also stepped into the spotlight that year with quality photography highlighting big names like Cal Ripken Jr., Ozzie Smith, and Kirby Puckett. The simplicity and classic baseball card aesthetics of many Bowman cards from 1994 have resonated and kept values steady. Cal Ripken’s iconic long toss image remains one of the most beloved Bowman cards ever.

Though many saw it as the last true “junk wax” year, Fleer also pumped out mega boxes of packs containing stars and rookies at relatively affordable prices. Their design was cleaner than years past and highlighted Griffey Jr. and other stars effectively. To this day, fully complete base sets from 1994 Fleer sell for very reasonable prices online.

In the 25 years since their release, 1994 Topps have followed a similar path of appreciation. With iconic designs and huge star power throughout, the base cards remain widely available but have gained nostalgic collector value. A mint Ken Griffey Jr. or Frank Thomas from that Topps issue would certainly be a prized addition to any collection today.

While interest and prices slowed after the early 1990s boom, 1994 remained one of the last truly great years for the hobby. The stars, rookies, designs and technological innovations of brands like Upper Deck, Fleer, Topps, Donruss and Bowman made for a truly memorable season for collectors. Many of the top rookie and star cards from ’94 have performed extremely well value-wise and remain highly collectible and nostalgic touchpoints for fans over a quarter century later.

In summary, 1994 marked a sort of changing of the guard, with Griffey Jr. taking mantle as the game’s new biggest star. His ultra-rare Upper Deck rookie, along rookie cards of A-Rod, Chipper Jones, Alou and Guerrero have proven to stand the test of time. Meanwhile, the hologram innovations of Optic, vintage-style photography of Upper Deck and quality designs of Bowman left lasting impressions. It was one of the last truly great modern vintage years that still resonates strongly with collectors today.

2022 TOPPS INCEPTION BASEBALL CARDS

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2022 Topps Inception Baseball Cards – An In-Depth Look at the High-End Release

The 2022 Topps Inception baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated high-end releases of the year from card manufacturer Topps. As with past years, Topps Inception offers collectors the opportunity to pull rare, autographed, and memorabilia cards of their favorite players. Let’s take a deeper look at what collectors can expect from the 2022 Topps Inception baseball set.

Topps Inception has developed quite a following since its inception in 2013 as an ultra-premium baseball card product. The set features a retro design aesthetic with a modern flair that collectors love. For the 2022 version, Topps is using photo negatives as the backdrop for the player photos. This gives the cards a very cool, one-of-a-kind look that can’t be found in any other set.

In terms of base card design, each player is featured on a photo-negative style image with their name and team logo prominently displayed at the bottom. Serial numbers are on the front of the cards as well to denote rarity. The backs have standard stats and career highlights written in a stylized retro font. As with past years, parallels and short prints will be the chase for collectors looking to build full rainbow sets of their PC guys.

When it comes to parallels, Topps Inception really goes all out to satisfy collectors at every level. In addition to the standard base cards, parallels planned for 2022 include Gold Foil (#/50), Green Foil (#/25), Orange Foil (#/10), Red Foil (#/5), Printing Plates (1/1), and Negative Printing Plates (1/1). Topps also includes rare 1/1 card designs unique to specific players through “Inception Masters” inserts. Needless to say, parallel collectors have their work cut out for them!

On top of the abundant parallels, Topps Inception is known for its autograph and memorabilia card inserts that can yield huge returns for lucky collectors. Some of the biggest chase cards for 2022 include 1/1 Autograph Printing Plates, Dual Autograph Printing Plates, Triple Autograph Printing Plates, and Quad Autograph Printing Plates. For memorabilia, “Inception Icons” cards pair swatches or patches with autographs. Other popular relic inserts are Signatures, Dual Relics, and Triple Relics.

As for the base set checklist, Topps Inception will feature 300 major league players as in years past. Rookies, veterans, and superstars are all represented. Top young stars like Wander Franco, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez will surely be hot commodities. Veterans like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Fernando Tatis Jr. also get the Inception treatment with photo negative images collectors won’t see anywhere else.

When it comes to parallels and short prints, Topps Inception is famous for its low print runs. Gold Foils for example are limited to just 50 copies each. This scarcity is a big reason why the set holds such prestige and value long term. The autograph and relic cards have print runs in the single digits as well, practically guaranteeing that true 1/1 finds will emerge as six and even seven figure gems in the years to come.

Pack configurations and release details are still to be determined, but Topps Inception will almost certainly arrive later this year as a high-end hobby exclusive. Past years have seen boxes with 12 packs and 3-4 cards per pack selling in the $150-200 range. Individual packs can also be found on the secondary market for collectors looking for a more affordable way to rip packs. With its vintage style design, coveted parallels and autographs, and history of producing monster hits, Topps Inception is sure to excite collectors yet again in 2022. Only time will tell what 1/1 monsters emerge from the photo negative depths!

The 2022 Topps Inception baseball card set promises to continue the tradition of delivering the hobby’s most coveted parallels, autographs, and one-of-one hits in card form. With its unique retro photo negative aesthetic, ultra-low print runs, and history of producing six and seven figure cards, Topps Inception is a must-have for high-end collectors every year. While the financial investment is steep, those who can afford to collect the set are almost guaranteed to turn a profit or complete dazzling full rainbow runs down the road. The 2022 version is sure to create new collecting legends.

REDDIT SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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Selling baseball cards on Reddit is a growing trend that provides collectors an alternative marketplace to traditional avenues. As the popularity of subreddits devoted to trading cards has increased, more sellers have turned to the social media platform to move inventory. There are advantages to using Reddit over the mainstream options of eBay, COMC, and Twitter, but also some caveats to consider.

The biggest subreddits focused on baseball cards are r/baseballcards and r/sportscarddeals. Each has thousands of members actively buying, selling, and trading. Sellers can create a post with photos and details of the cards they have available. This is a simple process through the subreddit interface or a mobile app. Interested buyers then comment or message the seller directly to initiate a transaction.

Payment is typically handled through PayPal Goods and Services for protection of both parties. The Reddit community fosters trust between members through positive reviews after completed deals. Successful transactions increase a user’s “karma” and build credibility for future business. Scamming is less likely due to the transparency of posting histories and peer feedback system holding people accountable.

Pricing cards on Reddit provides more flexibility than fixed-rate marketplaces. Sellers can negotiate and offer bulk discounts on multiple items to entice buyers. Descriptions should highlight notable rookies, stars, serial numbers, or other desirable characteristics that create demand. While condition is important to disclose upfront, Reddit shoppers tend towards collecting for enjoyment over grading crack. Moderately worn gems can still allure the right collector.

Compared to major auction sites, Reddit baseball card sales involve minimal listing and seller fees. There is no cost to create a post beyond what a user already pays for their Reddit premium membership, if anything. Slight shipping expenses are the main out-of-pocket costs for sellers. Buyers get potentially great deals by finding discounted collections in one centralized place. Reddit’s focus on niche communities is ideal for moving cards outside highest-end product.

For perspective on scale, baseball card related subreddits regularly see hundreds of thousands of views per month. An active seller with properly showcased listings can reasonably expect multiple interested buyers to comment each post. Moving even just a hundred dollars worth of inventory per month adds meaningful supplemental income. Top Reddit traders have full time businesses through leveraging the audience.

Of course, selling baseball cards on Reddit is not without risk and downsides compared to more robust commercial sites. Photo quality may be lower without advanced imaging equipment. Organizing postings and keeping inventory details accurate can become difficult without optimized inventory management systems. Scammers, while uncommon due to safeguards, may still try to take advantage on any public marketplace.

Shipping cards also lacks tracking features like eBay’s Seller Protection. Damage in transit, though unlikely with careful packaging, falls solely on the seller if a claim is made. Insurance adds cost and complexity versus “Buy It Now” checkout flows elsewhere. With sales happening individually rather than in large batches, profits are less front-loaded than from weekly auction lots.

For casual collectors and part-time dealers, leveraging personal collections on Reddit provides an accessible entry point. Those serious about long-term card selling may prefer platforms offering greater buyer reach, sales tools, and risk mitigation. Either way, the Reddit baseball card community has grown into a worthwhile environment for person-to-person collecting outside big auction houses. As hobby demand rises, this do-it-yourself marketplace model continues gaining influence in the sports collecting sphere.

Selling baseball cards on Reddit connects suppliers directly with an active customer pool. This builds trusting relationships better than anonymous bidding wars. Quality listings backed by a positive seller profile help move desirable inventory for fair prices. Risks exist as with any public forum, but peer reviews offer reasonable consumer protections. With baseball’s resurgent popularity, online fan communities provide expanding new frontiers for the hobby. For motivated Redditors, unlocking this untapped distribution channel can mean extra returns in their collection cashflow.

TOPPS 2019 HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Topps Heritage baseball card set is a fan favorite release that pays homage to classic baseball card designs of the past. Each year, Topps selects a specific decade as inspiration for the retro aesthetic of the Heritage set and in 2019, they looked to the design of cards from the late 1960s and early 1970s for guidance. With its distinctive vintage styling and quality cardboard construction, the 2019 Heritage set has proven to be an extremely popular high-end release among collectors both young and old.

Inspired by cards produced between 1968-1974, the 2019 Topps Heritage cards feature vivid action photography on a thick, high quality cardboard stock that was common during the 1960s/early 70s era. Rather than the modern smooth finish, the cards have a textured feel that further enhances the retro vibe. The player names, team logos and borders incorporate classic serif fonts that were popular during that time period. The vintage-inspired design transports collectors back to the days of their childhood collections or captures the nostalgic charm of the era for newer fans.

One of the distinctive touches that helps sell the retro flair is how each player’s position is denoted. Rather than simply listing “P” or “C”, the positions are spelled out in full such as “Pitcher” or “Catcher”. This small detail is faithful to how positions were indicated on cards from Topps’ earlier years. Also, while most modern cards feature brightly colored team logo chips on the uniform, the 2019 Heritage uniforms are more muted and realistic with team names stitched directly onto plain uniforms – just as they appeared in the source decade.

For collector enjoyment, the 2019 Topps Heritage release includes both active major leaguers as well as retired star players from the original era. For example, the release features current stars like Christian Yelich, Cody Bellinger and Mookie Betts alongside 1960s/70s legends like Nolan Ryan, Johnny Bench and Reggie Jackson. Having iconic veteran players mixed in with today’s top talent adds to the fun, nostalgic vibe of the set. Collectors enjoy seeking out their favorite modern stars reimagined in the classic vintage aesthetic as well as finding cards paying homage to heroes of the past.

In terms of construction, the 2019 Topps Heritage cards are printed on thick, high quality cardboard stock measuring 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches, just like their 1960s/70s predecessors. This hefty stock helps the cards maintain their pristine condition much better than the thin, glossy stock used in modern releases. The front of each card features the aforementioned retro design cues while the back has basic info about the player’s career stats and accomplishments written in a simple banner across the bottom. Throughout the set, parallels and variations offer collectors multiple options at various price points to complete their collection.

Some of the notable parallels and insert sets featured in 2019 Topps Heritage include:

Heritage High Numbers (extended player roster beyond the base set)

Heritage Mini (reduced 1.5 inch by 2.5 inch “mini” versions of select cards)

Refractors (parallel variations with refracting foil elements)

Black Refractors (ultra-rare 1/1000 versions on black refractors)

Throwback Threads (jersey-style patch cards paying tribute to historical uniforms)

Sp Threads (jersey swatches with team logo fabric from the source decade)

1969 Throwbacks (red, white and blue parallel designs inspired by 1969 Topps design)

In addition to the standard base set, these various parallels and inserts give serious collectors multiple objectives to pursue in completing their Heritage collection. Various levels of rarity and associated value add to the sense of excitement found in opening Heritage packs and boxes.

From a production standpoint, Topps distributed 2019 Topps Heritage in a wide range of retail formats to meet different budget levels:

Jumbo packs (10 oversized cards for premium price point)

Hobby boxes (36 packs with guaranteed parallels/hits)

Blasters (10 pack retail value option)

Hanger packs (5 mini packs with bonus insert cards)

Fat packs (20 mini packs at a heftier price vs. blasters)

This availability across various price points makes Heritage an accessible set for any level of collector. Whether seeking a fun weekend afternoon rip of blasters/hangers or diving into a serious master set hobby box break, Topps Heritage offers something for every baseball card fan.

The 2019 Topps Heritage release has proven to be another smashing success for the annual retro-inspired baseball card set. Faithful to its 1960s/70s design inspiration and accessible across various collector levels, Topps Heritage transports fans both young and old back to the golden era of the sport each time they crack packs. With its noteworthy veterans, abundance of parallels and nostalgic stylings, Topps Heritage rightly earns its place as a premier modern release and one of the most anticipated sets each year. Whether completing a master set or simply enjoying the trip down memory lane, Topps Heritage continues delivering fun for baseball card collectors of all stripes.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL MOST EXPENSIVE CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Baseball card set released in late January 2023 with much anticipation from collectors looking to pull valuable rookie cards and chase cards of star players. With the rise of the sports card industry in recent years, Topps cards have become some of the most coveted and expensive hobby items. Let’s take a look at some of the early standouts from the 2023 Topps Baseball release that are already commanding big money on the secondary market.

Julio Rodríguez Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #154)

The biggest star from the 2022 rookie class was Mariners center fielder Julio Rodríguez. After winning the AL Rookie of the Year award, Rodríguez mania has taken over the baseball card world. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie is the clear number one card from 2023 Topps so far. PSA 10 examples have already crossed the $1,000 price point with most selling in the $700-900 range. As Rodríguez continues his stellar career, this card is poised to be one of the most valuable modern rookie cards in the long run. The colorful and flashy Chrome design combined with Rodríguez’s budding superstardom make this a must-own for any collector.

Spencer Strider Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #223)

Another breakout rookie pitcher from 2022 was Braves flamethrower Spencer Strider. Despite only pitching around 150 innings last season, Strider made a huge impact with his electric fastball and strikeout stuff. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has taken off and looks to be the second most valuable card behind Julio’s. PSA 10 examples are selling in the $400-600 range already which is very high for a rookie card that is only a few months old. Strider has ace potential and with continued success, this card could rival the value of other top Braves rookie cards in the long run.

Bobby Witt Jr. Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #199)

The number one pick from the 2019 draft and ROY candidate in 2022, Bobby Witt Jr quickly became one of the faces of the next generation in baseball. While he didn’t quite live up to the massive hype in his first full season, Witt showed plenty of promise and 5 tool talent playing shortstop for the Royals. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie from 2023 is the third most expensive card so far behind Julio and Strider. PSA 10 examples are selling around the $300-400 mark. As Witt develops into the perennial all-star caliber player he’s projected to become, this card will remain highly sought after in the years to come.

Two-Sport Stars: Shohei Ohtani & Bryce Harper Chrome Refractors

Two of the biggest stars in baseball today that transcend the sport are Angels’ Shohei Ohtani and Phillies’ Bryce Harper. As dual threat pitching/hitting superstars, they have captured the attention of both baseball and sports card collectors. Their Topps Chrome Refractor base cards from 2023 have taken off in the early going. PSA 10 Ohtani’s are selling around $150-200 while Harper’s are fetching $100-150. With Ohtani’s continued two-way dominance and Harper being in the MVP discussion yearly, these modern star cards hold incredible long term value and growth potential.

Mike Trout Base Card (#76)

You can’t have a discussion about the most expensive cards without mentioning the best player of this generation, Mike Trout. While he missed significant time in 2022 due to injury, Trout is still the face of baseball when healthy and on the field. His base card from 2023 Topps is already one of the set’s most popular chase cards. PSA 10 examples are selling in the $50-75 range which is very high for a base card in a modern release. As Trout continues shattering records and cementing his legacy as an all-time great, any Trout card, but especially his base card, will remain a cornerstone in any collection for decades to come.

Rookie Pitchers: George Kirby, Grayson Rodriguez & Hunter Greene

While the position player rookie class of 2023 may not have had a clear cut superstar, the pitching rookie class was loaded with future aces. Three rookies who stood out last season and have valuable rookie cards include Mariners’ George Kirby, Orioles’ Grayson Rodriguez, and Reds’ Hunter Greene. Their Topps Chrome Refractor rookies are all selling in the $75-150 range for PSA 10’s depending on the player. All three pitchers have electric stuff and ace potential. As they develop and potentially become frontline starters, these rookie cards could appreciate significantly like past stars. They represent solid long term prospects for patient collectors.

Vintage Parallels: Gold & Rainbow Foil Parallels

For collectors seeking a higher end vintage parallel card, two standouts so far include the Gold Foil parallels and especially the ultra rare Rainbow Foil parallels. Only 10 Rainbow Foil cards exist for each player and they feature vivid colors and textures. Early Gold Foil sales of stars like Trout, Ohtani and Harper have reached the $300-500 range depending on the player popularity. Meanwhile, the first Rainbow Foil to sell was a Bobby Witt Jr. which astonishingly sold for over $3,000 raw. As the scarcest parallels available, these premium vintage parallels hold incredible potential to gain value over the long run.

While it’s still very early, the 2023 Topps Baseball release is shaping up to have several rookie cards, stars and parallels that could end up being some of the most expensive and valuable modern cards in the years to come. As the young players develop their careers and demand increases for stars like Trout, Ohtani and Harper, prices are poised to rise substantially from current levels. For collectors with the patience and foresight to pick up top cards now, 2023 Topps offers opportunities to potentially acquire future six and even seven figure gems.

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BASEBALL CARDS TO BUY IN 2023

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As baseball card collectors look ahead to the 2023 season, there are several young stars and rookie cards that could provide strong long-term value. While veteran stars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto will always be desirable, focusing on up-and-coming players set to break out can offer substantial returns on investment.

Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals) – The top overall pick from the 2019 draft had a phenomenal rookie season in 2022. Witt slashed .250/.290/.435 with 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases. He established himself as a budding superstar and the future face of the Royals franchise. Witt’s rookie cards from 2021 Topps products and 2022 Bowman Draft are excellent buys before he potentially wins Rookie of the Year. As he develops into a perennial All-Star, Witt’s rookie card prices will only rise.

Spencer Torkelson (Detroit Tigers) – After a disappointing rookie campaign in 2022 where he batted just .197, expectations remain high for Torkelson that he can turn things around in year two. The number one overall pick from 2020 has plus raw power and should improve greatly as he gains experience. His rookie cards from 2021 Topps products are quite affordable now compared to where they could be in a couple years if Torkelson breaks out. There is high upside potential here.

Brady House (Los Angeles Angels) – As one of the top prospects in the Angels stacked farm system, House had a breakout 2022 season slashing .312/.382/.509 between High-A and Double-A. The 2020 third rounder has the chance to be an impact middle of the order bat and his prospect cards could surge if he continues progressing. House’s 2021 Bowman Draft Purple Refractor #250 is an intriguing flier pick.

Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Cruz had a breakout showing in his first extended MLB stint in 2022, showcasing plus power and elite speed for his 6’7″ frame. While strikeouts are a concern, the tools are undeniable. His prospect cards exploded last year and rookie cards from 2021 Topps products will remain hot assets as Cruz establishes himself in Pittsburgh.

Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles) – After a strong debut in 2022 where he slashed .254/.362/.430, Rutschman looks to be well on his way to living up to his billing as the top prospect in baseball. The switch hitting catcher has a complete skillset and will be a franchise cornerstone for the Orioles. His rookie cards are still relatively affordable compared to future Hall of Famers. Rutschman is a blue chip investment.

Julio Rodriguez (Seattle Mariners) – Rodriguez captured the AL Rookie of the Year award after an electrifying first season where he slashed .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. The tools, production and hype are all there for Rodriguez to become a true superstar. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire #65 is a must-own for any collection and will only grow in value as J-Rod’s career progresses.

Brennan Davis (Chicago Cubs) – Davis has all the makings of being the next great Cubs outfielder as he continues developing in their system. The 2018 second rounder made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed off his five-tool ability. Davis’ prospect cards could spike if he secures an everyday role in Chicago’s lineup next season. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire #60 is a solid long term prospecting target.

Jack Leiter (Texas Rangers) – As the number two overall pick from 2021, Leiter dominated in his first full pro season between High-A and Double-A with a combined 2.81 ERA and 155 strikeouts in 111 innings. His prospect cards exploded and will remain hot commodities if he progresses up the Rangers system quickly. Leiter has true ace upside and his 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Auto #71 is a stellar pickup.

George Kirby (Seattle Mariners) – Kirby made impressive strides in his first full MLB campaign, going 7-3 with a 3.39 ERA as a rookie. The 2019 first rounder has the repertoire to be a solid mid-rotation starter for years. His prospect cards from 2021 Topps products are relatively affordable and carry low risk with high upside if Kirby continues establishing himself in Seattle’s rotation.

Eury Perez (Tampa Bay Rays) – As one of the top international prospects signed in July 2022, Perez is already turning heads in his professional debut stateside. The athletic 17-year old outfielder has five-tool potential and could develop into a true star. His 2022 Topps Chrome Sapphire Green Auto #150 is a lottery ticket that could pay big dividends down the road as Perez rises up prospect rankings.

Focusing on emerging young talents like Witt, Torkelson, House, Cruz, Rutschman, Rodriguez, Davis, Leiter, Kirby and Perez offers collectors opportunities to get in early on players who have superstar upside. Their rookie cards and top prospect cards represent strong long-term investments, especially if they blossom into the impact players their raw abilities indicate they can become. Following the development of these rising stars in 2023 and beyond should provide plenty of excitement for baseball card investors.

1963 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1963 Topps baseball card series is one of the most iconic sets in the history of the hobby. Coming on the heels of major league baseball’s expansion in 1961 and 1962, the ’63 Topps cards introduced fans to stars on the newly formed New York Mets and Houston Colt .45s franchises. While the set overall isn’t among the most valuable unopened, several individual 1963 Topps rookie and star cards have risen dramatically in price in recent years due to their historical significance and condition scarcity. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable gems from the 1963 Topps set.

Kicking off our list is the rookie card of Hall of Fame second baseman Joe Morgan. A tempestuous talent with the Cincinnati Reds, Morgan would go on to be named to seven All-Star teams during his career and help lead the “Big Red Machine” to back-to-back World Series championships in 1975-76. His slick defensive skills and impactful bat made him one of the top second basemen of his era. In near mint condition, Morgan’s scarce ’63 Topps RC has sold for over $15,000. Another Cincinnati standout, Frank Robinson, also has an elite card from the set. As one of the earliest examples of an MVP playing in both leagues, Robinson’s imposing presence in a Reds uniform makes his 1963 issue a trophy card fetching thousands in high grades.

Two icons of the New York Mets inaugural 1962 season, pitcher Craig Anderson and outfielder Jimmy Piersall, have rare rookie cards that shine brightly in the ’63 set. Both were original “Metropolitan” stars who contributed to the team’s surprising 61-101 record as expansion newcomers. Their cardboard debuts are key pieces of Mets history securing over $5,000 apiece when preserved excellently. On the other coast, pitcher Juan Marichal made his Topps bow following a monster 1962 season split between the Giants and Red Sox farm clubs. “The Dominican Dandy’s” 163 strikeouts and 2.30 ERA made him an instant ace, with his striking rookie card in demand at four-figure values today.

Two American League MVPs, Early Wynn and Elston Howard, possessed defining ’63 issues as well. “Old Early” had ascended to his career pinnacle with the 1963 White Sox, igniting the “Go-Go” season with 21 wins and a career-best 2.19 ERA at age 41. His MVP award winning ways made his Topps card a must-have. Meanwhile, Yankee catcher Elston Howard had broken the MLB color barrier and was a crucial part of their dynasty. His smooth lefty swing and stellar defense were praised on baseball cards ahead of his contemporaries. High grade copies of Wynn and Howard now cost collectors several thousand dollars each.

Across town with the Mets, slugging first baseman Ron Swoboda had a breakout 1963 campaign with 16 home runs as a 23-year old rookie. His encouraging potential and status as one of the new NL club’s original position players created lasting demand for Swoboda’s scarce RC. When found in pristine condition sealed in the original wax wrapper, it can net over $6,000. Another rookie holding immense value is Angels pitcher Bo Belinsky. With pinup girl fame and a stellar 1962 season, Belinsky’s card became one of the set’s most coveted and historically important. Now graded mint or better, it can bring in excess of $10,000 at auction.

Rounding out our lineup of 1963 Topps standouts are a pair of Hall of Fame hurlers who started their careers with the expansion Colt .45s/Astros – Don Nottebart and Jim Umbricht. As two of the earliest stars donning the new Houston uniform, their debut issues provide a unique slice of baseball and franchise history. Nottebart enjoyed a long, effective career highlighted by threestraight 15-win seasons for the Astros in the mid-60s. His condition scarce rookie elicits over $3,000 in top grades. Meanwhile, Umbricht’s tragic passing in a plane crash at age 33 after just 2 MLB seasons has given extra notoriety and value to his popular 1963 RC, selling in the $5,000 range pristinely preserved.

While the 1963 Topps baseball card set as a whole doesn’t command the absurd prices of the T206 tobacco era or 1952 Topps, several individual rookie cards and star players have attained premier status. Strong investment demands for the earliest cardboard representations of soon-to-be legends like Morgan, Marichal, and Wynn, as well as expansion stars and obscure figures, keeps the market robust. With the inherent vintage nostalgia and historical relevance of 1960s baseball embedded within, uncovering a high quality ’63 Topps RC of any of these discussed players would make for an exhilarating addition to any collection.

TOP VALUE 2022 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 baseball season brought with it a new crop of rookie cards and veterans that continued to appreciate in value. While many factors can influence the valuation of any given card, here are some of the top value 2022 baseball cards that collectors targeted based on player performance and popularity.

Shohei Ohtani, 2021 Topps Chrome Update Superfractor Auto #/10 ($150,000+) – Ohtani had another historic two-way season in 2022 and continued capturing the attention of casual and diehard baseball fans alike. His rookie cards from 2018 have appreciated tremendously, but none command as high of a premium as his ultra-short printed 2021 Topps Chrome Update Superfractor autograph, which is serial numbered to just 10 copies. With Ohtani cementing his status as a true unicorn and active two-way player, his vintage rookie cards and short prints like this are sure to hold tremendous long-term value.

Spencer Torkelson, 2021 Bowman Chrome Green Auto #/99 ($10,000+) – As the top overall pick in 2020, Torkelson entered 2022 with immense expectations. While he struggled initially in his MLB debut, Torkelson showed signs of breaking out in the second half for the Detroit Tigers. His rookie cards surged accordingly, especially the low-numbered parallel versions from his 2021 Bowman Chrome rookie year like the green refractor auto available in only 99 copies. Now that he appears on the cusp of stardom, Torkelson’s top rookies could appreciate significantly further.

Riley Greene, 2021 Topps Chrome Yellow Refractor Auto #/50 ($7,500+) – As Torkelson’s teammate on Team USA and the number 5 overall pick in 2019, Greene also had a highly-touted prospect pedigree entering 2022. He broke out with the Tigers and looked like a budding star, slashing .295/.334/.480 in 60 games. His 2021 Topps Chrome Yellow Refractor auto, limited to just 50 copies, exploded in value and shown that Greene has all the makings of a true franchise cornerstone for Detroit with prolific career still ahead of him.

Bobby Witt Jr., 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Photo Variation Auto (#3,500+) – The number 2 overall pick in 2019, Witt lived up to the hype by making his MLB debut with the Kansas City Royals in 2022 and finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting. He immediately brought excitement and relevance back to Kansas City. While many of his top rookie cards gained tremendously, the scarce Topps Chrome rainbow foil photo variation parallel version became one of the true crown jewels from his rookie year product and should hold elite long-term value as he cement his superstar status.

Julio Rodriguez, 2021 Bowman Chrome Green Auto #/99 ($4,000+) – J-Rod dazzled for the Seattle Mariners as a 21-year-old rookie, slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI. He finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting and looks like a perennial all-star in the making. His top rookies gained appreciably as collectors anticipated his early success. The low-number green refractor auto from his debut Bowman Chrome set became an especially hot commodity card and gateway to owning an early investment in one of the brightest young stars in baseball.

Adley Rutschman, 2021 Bowman Chrome Orange Refractor Auto #/50 ($3,500+) – As the top prospect and number 1 overall pick in 2019, expectations were immense for Rutschman entering 2022, his first full season with the Baltimore Orioles. He delivered by hitting .254 with 7 home runs in 84 games and showing all the promise of an elite all-around catcher. His 2021 Bowman Chrome oranges, limited to just 50 copies, absolutely skyrocketed with his debut and established Rutschman as a true blue chip whose cards could yield major returns for patient collectors.

Cardinal Rookies – Extended rookie card runs from players like Brendan Donovan, Dylan Carlson and Nolan Gorman drove excitement and collector interest around the 2021 and 2022 St. Louis Cardinals rookie classes. While short prints remain the true blue chips, even base rookies from breakouts like Donovan gained tangible value as they cemented lineups spots – showing how contributions at the MLB level can lift even common rookie cards substantially.

Veteran Stars – Established superstars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., Mike Trout and Juan Soto continued seeing certain vintage and rookie cards appreciate strongly as they sustained elite careers in 2022 and looked to capture additional hardware and achieve career milestones. Especially for players signing massive long-term contracts, their early career cards represent an investment that collectors remained bullish could yield strong long-term returns.

While the 2022 baseball season brought ups and downs, it uncovered new young talents and cemented existing stars – all of which drove collector interest and appreciation for their rookie cards, relics, and autographs on the yearly trading card market. For those who intelligently speculated on the game’s brightest prospects and fiercest competitors, this crop of top value cards from the year offer intriguing long-term holdings with room left to climb even higher.