Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

BEST AUCTION SITES FOR BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to buying and selling baseball cards, auction sites have become one of the most popular methods for collectors. With so many options available online, it can be difficult to determine which sites are truly the best. This article will examine some of the top auction sites for baseball cards and provide key details on their features, reputation, and overall user experience.

eBay – Without question, eBay is the largest and most well-known online auction site. Its massive user base means that virtually any baseball card you want to buy or sell can likely be found on eBay. With over 1.5 billion active buyers worldwide, eBay gives collectors access to a huge potential customer pool. The site takes a final value fee of 10% on baseball card sales but does not charge any listing or insertion fees. Feedback and rating systems help ensure safe transactions. With so much volume also comes risk of fakes and scams. Careful vetting of sellers is advised.

Comc – Formerly known as Collector’s Universe, ComicConnect (Comc) is a leading auction house specializing in collectibles like comics, cards, and memorabilia. While fees are higher than eBay at 15% plus applicable sales tax, Comc has a reputation for authenticating items and only working with verified consignors. Condition certifications from grading services like PSA/DNA add confidence for buyers. Comc is best suited for high-value rare cards rather than everyday collecting needs but is considered the “gold standard” by many serious vintage collectors.

Heritage Auctions – As one of the biggest full-service auction houses, Heritage offers weekly sports auctions featuring premium vintage and modern baseball memorabilia. Items typically sell for thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Like Comc, Heritage is a great option for rare valuable cards but charges buyer’s premiums that can reach 25% of hammer price. Authentication is top-notch though and Heritage maintains long-standing relationships with prominent collectors. Their Dallas and New York auction galleries offer a unique live bidding experience as well.

Sports Card Forum – A free community site primarily used for discussions, Sports Card Forum also hosts a bustling marketplace section ideal for budget collectors. Listings are free and sellers set their own minimum bids and best offers. Feedback is left anonymously so some degree of risk remains, but overall prices are lower and selection is good for more common cards from the 1980s-2000s era. Shipping is left to the sellers to arrange as well. It’s a solid choice for casual buyers on a budget.

Sportlots – Operating since 1999, Sportlots is one of the older baseball card auction sites still around. They charge no listing or sales fees, only taking a small payment processing cut. Authenticating is left up to sellers though, so buyers need to carefully check feedback. The interface is basic compared to giants like eBay but selection is wide-ranging at all price points. Sportlots works well for moving mid-range lots and collections with reasonable reserves in a low-pressure setting.

Goldin Auctions – A relative newcomer launched in 2015, Goldin Auctions has quickly emerged as a serious player in the memorabilia market. Their specialty is modern rare autographs, patches, and serial-numbered cards of stars like Mike Trout and Ronald Acuña Jr. Fees are 10% for sellers and 10% buyer’s premium. Goldin brings a youthful energy to the industry and markets aggressively through social media. Condition reports from third-party authenticators like PSA/DNA are provided on consigned items. While not ideal for budget collectors, Goldin is a standout for high-end modern memorabilia.

Other sites like 130point.com and Delcampe.net cater more to the international collecting market. While not as widely known in North America, they have active baseball card categories and offer alternative marketplaces worth exploring. Sites like Lelands and Memory Lane also run periodic auctions of valuable vintage cards alongside other collectibles but charge higher premiums than the dedicated auction platforms.

In the end, the best auction site depends on an individual collector’s budget, interests, and risk tolerance. Doing thorough research on any seller is paramount to avoiding scams. Sites with strong buyer protection programs and a track record of authenticating items tend to be safest. For casual collecting, free community marketplaces work well. But serious investors usually prefer the established auction houses’ reputation and services even if it means paying higher fees. With diligence, collectors have many excellent online options to choose from.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS OF 1987

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The year 1987 was one of the most iconic years in the history of the baseball card hobby. Players like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine were just beginning to make a name for themselves in their rookie seasons. Meanwhile, future Hall of Famers like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Mike Schmidt continued putting up big numbers in the late stages of their impressive careers. As a result, 1987 offered collectors some highly sought after rookie cards as well as cards showing star veterans of the era at the peak of their powers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1987 baseball cards that still fetch high prices in today’s market.

Perhaps the most valuable 1987 baseball card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey lived up to the enormous hype surrounding him as one of the best all-around outfielders in baseball history. With his effortless sweet swing and dazzling defense in center field, Griffey was a fan favorite who helped rejuvenate interest in the game during the 1990s. His impossibly clean rookie card from 1987 Bowman has always been one of the most desired in the hobby. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples have sold for over $100,000, though even well-centered PSA 8 copies in excellent condition can sell for $10,000 or more. Griffey’s tremendous career and iconic rookie card status make this one the undisputed heavyweight champion of 1987.

Another enormously valuable 1987 rookie is the Barry Bonds card from Topps. Like Griffey, Bonds went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is considered one of the greatest players ever. His 1987 Topps rookie card shows the then-slim Bonds in a Pirates uniform during his early days in the majors. High-grade PSA 10 examples have topped $25,000 at auction due to his legendary career that was full of controversy as well as unprecedented power numbers. Even in lower grades, this key Bonds rookie consistently sells in the four-figure range.

Staying in Pittsburgh, the Andy Van Slyke rookie from 1987 Fleer Update is another noteworthy seven-figure card. Van Slyke had a long, productive career patrolling center field for the Pirates and Cardinals while displaying an uncanny ability to get on base. Though not quite in Griffey or Bonds’ stratosphere statistically, his flashy play and key role on 1990s Pirates teams has given this rare Van Slyke rookie lasting appeal. In pristine PSA 10 condition, it has reached $20,000. Most graded copies sell in the $3,000-$7,000 range.

Another rookie to fetch five figures is Gregg Jefferies’ 1987 Donruss issue. Jefferies was a can’t-miss prospect coming out of high school and showed promise early in his career for the Mets and Royals. Injuries hampered what could have been an elite career, but the potential he showed makes his rookie a strong speculator card even today. High grades have sold for $15,000, with most others in the $1,000-$3,000 range depending on condition.

Veteran stars were also strongly represented in the 1987 set. Perhaps the most famous is the Ozzie Smith 1985 Topps Traded error card, which is actually part of the 1987 set due to the printing error holding up its release. Featuring “Ozzie Smith” on the front but showing Darrell Porter’s photo on the back, this mistake card rivals any other in baseball for rarity and intrigue. Just a handful are known to exist, and one in decent shape sold for over $50,000 in a 2013 auction.

Wade Boggs’ card from 1987 Topps is also a consistent five-figure earner. The hit machine Boggs was a perennial batting champion and the heart of the Red Sox lineup throughout the 1980s. His ’87 Topps issue is one of the best looking in the set. High grades have topped $10,000, with most others ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 based on condition.

Another popular 1987 issue showing a Hall of Fame hitter in his prime is the Mike Schmidt card from Fleer. Schmidt was still in his 20s but was already a three-time MVP and one of the most feared power hitters in baseball. This great action shot captures him at the plate and remains a standout in the vintage Fleer designs. Top grades have crossed $5,000, with most average copies selling around $1,000.

Two expensive stars from the Los Angeles Dodgers round out the most valuable 1987 cards. The Fernando Valenzuela card features “Fernandomania” in one of his best seasons before arm injuries slowed his stellar career. High grade PSA 10s have reached $3,000 for this popular relic of the 1981 rookie phenomenon. The Kirk Gibson “walk-off” World Series card from 1987 Topps Captures one of the greatest playoff moments in history. Top condition copies have exceeded $2,000 due to Gibson’s iconic home run.

The hallmark rookie cards of future all-time greats Ken Griffey Jr. and Barry Bonds continue to drive prices for 1987 issues. But standout veterans like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Mike Schmidt also made invaluable contributions to the set. Thirty-five years later, pristine examples of their best 1987 cards remain collectors’ most coveted investments from the vintage era.

HISTORY OF BASEBALL CARDS BOOK

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The history of baseball cards spans over a century and involves the evolution of a fun collectible into a multi-billion dollar industry. Some key events and milestones include:

The first known baseball cards were produced in the late 1860s during the early years of baseball as a professional sport. These cards did not feature images of players but rather statistics and facts printed on card stock. In 1868, a tobacco company called Buckingham Cigarettes began inserting photographic lithographic cards into their product packaging, which are believed to be the first cards to feature pictures of baseball players. These included legends like Cap Anson who was one of the first stars of the professional game. These early baseball cards were produced sporadically and not in dedicated sets.

In the late 1880s, several tobacco companies began regularly inserting baseball cards into their products which helped popularize the collectible aspect. Companies like Allen & Ginter in 1888 and Old Judge in 1889 issued some of the first true “sets” of baseball cards that could be collected, with each card featuring a different player or providing a statistical snapshot of the game. These early tobacco era cards helped fuel more interest in baseball by introducing fans to players from other clubs and leagues. Many of the most valuable early baseball cards come from this Tobacco Era between 1888 to the early 1900s.

In 1907, the American Tobacco Company took over production of baseball cards and issued sets each year for several decades to come under brands like T206. During this time, cards became even more sophisticated in design with color lithography, action shots of players and vibrant marketing on the fronts and backs. Players gained wider exposure and card collecting grew into a mainstream hobby. Icons of the sport from this era like Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth and Walter Johnson made their baseball card debuts. As baseball increased in popularity in the early 20th century, so too did the collection of its player cards.

After a lull during World War I & II for economic/materials reasons, the 1950s saw an explosion in major set releases and competitive card companies like Topps who sought the exclusive baseball card license. In 1952, Topps purchased the rights and their innovative design of illustrated players on a colorfully designed background set the template for modern cards. Their dominant position helped popularize strategies like limited production, serial numbering and the introduction of rookie cards. This led to a sustained boom era for baseball cards that lasted into the 1980s.

In the 1970s, the rise of star players like Reggie Jackson made certain scarce vintage and rookie cards highly coveted collector’s items. This led to the birth of the intersection of commerce and nostalgia as cards transformed into lucrative speculative investments. The 1980s saw the peak of the modern card boom, with the introduction of sports memorabilia shows, the rise of independent grading companies, and headline-making record-shattering sales prices for iconic vintage issues like the Honus Wagner T206. An overproduction coupled with contraction of the sport led to a bust in the late 80s-early 90s.

Through the 90s and 2000s, the baseball card industry stabilized but focused more on high-end, luxury products aimed at hardcore adult collectors rather than the kid-friendly bubblegum model of the past. The proliferation of the internet allowed for a robust online marketplace. Collectors rediscovered the appeal of vintage cards from the pre-war era, often graded and preserved. This has led to renewed interest and stable demand, with headline-grabbing auction prices continuing to be achieved for the most coveted historic specimens in near-mint condition.

Today, while not at the heights of the 80s boom, the baseball card industry remains an important commercial sector within the broader sport and memorabilia industry estimated now to be worth over $5 billion annually. The intersection of baseball, finance and personal nostalgia ensures that the tradition of baseball card collecting, as the earliest tangible link between fans and their favorite players, will likely remain an integral part of the sports world history. New digital platforms have also allowed the expansion of card collecting beyond the physical cardboard to digital formats, ensuring that this time-honored hobby continues to evolve alongside changes in technology and consumer preferences. Through its long 145+ year history, the baseball card has grown from a simple tobacco insert into a sophisticated collectible category and a lenses through which we can examine how both cards and the game have developed together alongside American culture and business.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 2022

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The 2022 baseball season saw a return to normalcy after two years impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With fans back in the stands and a full 162-game schedule, it was a year to remember for many players and teams. Topps, the iconic baseball card manufacturer, celebrated the excitement of the season with another highly anticipated flagship release. Let’s take a look at some of the best cards from Topps 2022 and what made them stand out.

Shohei Ohtani – The Face of Baseball

There is no doubt that Shohei Ohtani has become the face of baseball over the past couple seasons. The two-way star from the Los Angeles Angels continues to captivate fans with his unprecedented ability to excel as both a pitcher and hitter at the major league level. It’s only fitting that Topps featured Ohtani prominently across multiple inserts in 2022. His base card captured him in his batting stance and quickly became one of the most sought after rookie cards of the year. Topps also paid tribute to Ohtani’s unique talents with inserts highlighting his pitching and hitting abilities separately. Collectors scrambled to track down these one-of-a-kind Ohtani cards that will surely gain value as his career progresses.

Rookie Sensations – Witt, Adley, and More

The 2022 rookie class didn’t disappoint, headlined by Kansas City Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. and Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. Witt’s electric debut season made him an instant star and the favorite for AL Rookie of the Year. Topps captured Witt in full swing on his base card and also included him in several parallel and insert sets. Likewise, Rutschman shone in his first MLB action and was prominently featured after being taken first overall in 2019. Other top rookie cards included Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez and Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena, who helped lead his team to a World Series title. This exciting crop of rookies gave collectors plenty of promising young talents to chase.

Record Breakers – Judge, deGrom, and History Makers

Aaron Judge’s chase for the American League single season home run record dominated headlines in the second half of the season. Topps paid tribute to Judge’s dominance with inserts highlighting some of his many long balls. They also featured him on several parallels of his base card that exploded in value as he closed in on and surpassed Roger Maris’ AL mark. Similarly, Jacob deGrom returned from injury to continue cementing his case as the best pitcher of his generation when healthy. Topps commemorated some of deGrom’s most dominant outings on special cards. They also honored other historic milestones and achievements from 2022, such as Albert Pujols reaching 700 career home runs. These unique cards captured some of the most memorable moments from another intriguing MLB campaign.

Veteran Stars and Hall of Fame Contenders

While the rookies and young stars received plenty of buzz, Topps also continued to showcase the game’s top veteran talents. Cards of Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, and Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. remained highly coveted. Players in their late careers who have a shot at the Hall of Fame received special recognition. Topps inserted cards honoring Milwaukee Brewers pitchers Josh Hader and Brandon Woodruff, San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr., and Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as potential Cooperstown candidates down the road. These established names maintained their popularity with collectors.

Parallels, Autographs, and More

Topps loaded their 2022 release with several parallel and insert sets beyond the standouts mentioned. Ranging from the ever-popular Chrome and Rainbow Foil variants to more specialized sets like Star Wars, Marvel, and Topps NOW cards, there was no shortage of parallel collecting opportunities. Autographed and memorabilia cards of the game’s top talents also sold out quickly. Overall, Topps continued delivering the traditional hits collectors love while also experimenting with fun new concepts. Between the base cards, parallels, inserts, and autographs/memorabilia included, their 2022 offering provided a full baseball card experience commemorating another year in the sport.

In summary, Topps 2022 maintained the brand’s status as the premier baseball card release of the year. Rookies like Witt and Rutschman, superstars like Ohtani and Judge, record setters, and more were all prominently featured across the set’s base cards and countless inserts. Parallel and autographed variants as well as specialized sets also gave collectors plenty of exciting chase cards. With rosters that included rising young talents, established veterans, and players chasing milestones and Cooperstown, Topps 2022 had something for fans and collectors of every interest. This highly complete set will surely bring back memories and remain a treasured release for years to come.

EURY PEREZ BASEBALL CARDS

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Eury Perez is a Venezuelan professional baseball outfielder who has played in Major League Baseball for the Washington Nationals, Atlanta Braves, and Kansas City Royals. While he has had a relatively short MLB career to date, Perez has generated some interest among baseball card collectors thanks to his unique skillset and potential as a speedster on the basepaths. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the more notable Eury Perez baseball cards that have been released over the years.

One of the first Eury Perez cards collectors may be familiar with is his 2010 Bowman Prospects card. Released when Perez was just 18 years old and climbing the minor league ranks in the Nationals system, this card featured Perez in his Nationals uniform with stats from his debut season in the Dominican Summer and Gulf Coast Leagues. While Perez did not have huge numbers that first season, the card hinted at his potential as a speedy outfielder with above average defense and base stealing ability. With a printing of only around 50,000 copies, Perez’s 2010 Bowman Prospects card can still be obtained fairly inexpensively by most collectors.

A card that saw Perez’s prospect status rise was his 2011 Bowman Sterling card. By this point, Perez had broken out with stolen base totals over 30 bases in both the Appalachian and New York-Penn Leagues. The Sterling parallel featured glossy photo stock and serial numbering to 199 copies. While still relatively low print runs for Bowman products, Perez’s increasing prospect stock made his 2011 Sterling a hotly sought after short print among Nationals fans and prospects watchers. PSA 10 gem mint examples now sell for around $50-75, showing the card’s rising collector value.

Perez got his first true “flagship” card with Topps in 2012 with his Topps Pro Debut release. Sporting a bright smile in his Nationals blue and gray uniform, the card served as Perez’s official “rookie” issue as he prepared to start the 2012 season in High-A. While production numbers on Pro Debut are in the millions, Perez’s card remains one of the more iconic early issues for collectors to track his progression. Near mint copies in the $5-10 range reflect the card’s place as a standard early Perez issue before his MLB arrival.

One of the best indicators of Perez’s growing prospect stock came in 2013 with his Topps Triple Threads Auto card. The ultra premium Triple Threads set featured dual game-worn memorabilia patches and on-card autographs. Perez’s dual-patch auto parallel numbered to just 50 copies established him among the elite Nationals prospects at the time. With a current market value around $150-250 in gem mint condition, the Triple Threads Auto shows how close Perez appeared to be on the cusp of a MLB call up.

That MLB arrival came in 2014, and Perez got his first true MLB card courtesy of Topps. Sporting the classic Nationals alternate red home jersey, Perez’s 2014 Topps base card served to commemorate his initial cup of coffee in the bigs. While production on modern Topps cards is massive, Perez’s rookie issue remains a staple for collectors to track his career. Near mint copies trade for around $3-5, reflecting the card’s place as a standard early MLB issue.

After being waived by the Nationals and claimed by the Braves, Perez got his first cards in a new uniform in 2015. Both Topps and Bowman released Perez cards showing him in Atlanta’s navy blue and red. The Topps base card and Bowman Prospect parallel served to mark Perez’s transition to a new club. While still fairly common, they represent an important change of scenery period early in his career.

Perez would be waived by Atlanta as well and end up with the Royals in 2016. Topps, Bowman, and even international brands like Panini released Perez cards in the Royals colors of blue and white. Most notably, Perez’s 2016 Topps Series 2 card featured a sharp photo and design to commemorate his time in Kansas City. Near mint copies remain fairly inexpensive indicators of this stage of Perez’s career.

While Eury Perez never fully stuck in the majors long term, he generated interest among collectors thanks to his elite speed skills coming up through the minors. Cards from his prospect days like Bowman Sterling parallel remain some of the more coveted due to the low print runs. Flagship rookie issues like Topps document his brief MLB looks. As a whole, Perez’s collecting landscape reflects the journeyman path some talented minor leaguers take before moving on to other leagues later in their careers.

Even though Perez remains active in independent leagues today, his MLB tenure may be finished. For collectors who tracked his development as a potential base-stealing star of the future, his early prospect issues and major league rookie cards continue to represent an interesting timeline within the world of baseball cards. As one of the more unique international speedsters to get cup of coffee in the bigs, Eury Perez’s collecting landscape is one of hope, potential, and the uncertainty that comes with professional baseball.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1908 COMPARISON

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Baseball cards have been around since the late 1800s, with the earliest known examples dating back to the 1870s. It was not until the early 20th century that baseball cards began to be mass produced and inserted as incentives in tobacco products. The year 1908 marked a pivotal time for the baseball card collecting hobby, as several major manufacturers released sets that are now considered some of the most iconic and valuable in the history of the industry. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the landmark baseball card releases from 1908 and compare them using modern price guides to analyze relative rarity and demand over a century later.

The T206 set, produced by the American Tobacco Company, is widely regarded as the most significant release of the pre-World War I era. With over 500 unique cards issued between 1909-1911, the T206 set featured photographs of major and minor league players on thick cardboard stock. The photo quality and production volume far surpassed any previous baseball card series. While common players can still be acquired for $10-50 in low grade, the true stars and rare variations have appreciated enormously in value. Honus Wagner is the most famous example, with a PSA NM-MT 8 example selling for over $3 million in 2016. But stars like Mathewson, Johnson, and Lajoie also command huge sums. With such iconic designs that captured the players’ likenesses perfectly, the T206 set remains one of the crown jewels of the hobby.

Another seminal release was the E90-1 set issued by the Continental Tobacco Company in 1908. While smaller in scope than T206 with only 51 cards, the E90-1 set is still considered the first “modern” design that featured individual player photographs like a standard baseball card set. The photo quality was also a significant upgrade over previous tobacco era issues. In top grades, common E90-1 players sell for $100-300 while the more coveted stars can reach $5,000-10,000. The true keys, however, are the rare E90-1 variations and errors that have been known to exceed $100,000 at auction. Some notable examples include the E90-1 Nap Lajoie card in an Indian head design rather than a baseball uniform and the famous blank back E90-1 error cards which are the stuff of collector dreams.

The third major 1908 release was the much smaller 15-card set inserted in Sweet Caporal cigarettes called C50-C64. While not as iconic as T206 or E90-1, the C50-C64 set still featured individual player photographs on thick cardboard stock and included several future Hall of Famers like Mathewson and Wagner. In top grades, common players sell for $200-500 while the short prints command $1,000-3,000 due to their rarity. The true key to the set, however, is the Honus Wagner card, which is even more valuable than his legendary T206. In pristine condition a C50-C64 Wagner recently sold at auction for over $1.2 million, making it one of the most valuable baseball cards ever sold.

When comparing the three landmark 1908 sets side by side using modern price guides, there are several notable takeaways. While the T206 set had much wider distribution with over 500 cards issued, the smaller E90-1 and C50-C64 sets featured pioneering early photograph designs that capture the imagination of collectors. As a result, their rare variations have appreciated to similar levels as common T206 players over the decades. The true superstars like Wagner, Mathewson and Johnson remain in high demand across all three sets due to their iconic playing careers. For the most complete rookie card or single card investment, a pristine T206 Wagner is still king. But for the thrill of the chase of uncovering a previously unknown error or variation, the E90-1 and C50-C64 sets offer greater potential to strike gold. A century after their release, the 1908 tobacco era sets continue to drive passion and competition in the modern collecting marketplace.

In conclusion, 1908 was truly a landmark year that defined the early modern era of baseball card collecting. The T206, E90-1 and C50-C64 sets established templates for photography, production value and player selection that are still followed today. While the larger and more widely distributed T206 set understandably receives the most attention, the smaller 1908 issues have proven to hold their own in terms of appreciation due to their groundbreaking early designs and coveted rare variants. Whether seeking common players, key stars or uncharted errors, all three 1908 sets provide a window into the early 20th century that continues to captivate collectors over a century later. Their iconic cards remain a driving force in the modern hobby.

BABE RUTH METAL BASEBALL CARDS

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Babe Ruth Metal Baseball Cards: A Unique Piece of Sports Collecting History

During the 1930s and 1940s, metal cards featuring baseball legends like Babe Ruth were produced and distributed as promotional items or rewards. These vintage metal cards offer a fascinating look at the early days of sports card collecting and memorabilia, as well as capturing the iconic image and legacy of one of baseball’s greatest players. While rare today, Babe Ruth metal cards remain highly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity and historical significance.

The exact origin of metal baseball cards is unknown, but they began appearing in the late 1930s produced by various manufacturers. Some of the earliest known examples featured players from the 1930s and were included in Cracker Jack boxes or given out at ballparks. Production ramped up after WWII, with more companies getting involved. Metal cards served both as promotional tools for brands as well as rewards or bonuses included with other products.

Babe Ruth stood out as one of the most popular players to be featured on these early metal cards due to his status as a true baseball legend. Even years after his retirement, Ruth remained one of the most recognizable athletes worldwide. As such, his likeness sold products and garnered attention. Surviving examples of Babe Ruth metal cards come in an array of designs from different manufacturers spanning the late 1930s through the 1950s.

Some common varieties include cards produced by Topps, Bowman, Red Man, and American Caramel, among others. The front designs usually consisted of a color photo of Ruth in his Yankees uniform along with his stats and accomplishments. On the reverse, some included additional stats or career highlights, while others promoted the product they were associated with. The cards were made of tin or galvanized steel and measured around 2×3 inches on average. Later examples also exist on aluminum.

Production techniques varied between manufacturers. Some employed lithography to apply the images and text while others utilized engraving or stamping. The quality and durability of the cards also differed. The best preserved examples retain vivid colors and sharp details, while others show more wear from use and age. The material and manufacturing process played a large role in a card’s ability to withstand the test of time. Overall condition is a major factor for collectors when evaluating the condition and value of vintage metal cards today.

During their original distribution period in the late 1930s-1950s, these metal cards served more as novel promotional items rather than serious sports collectibles. They did help drive interest in baseball memorabilia and spurred the beginnings of what would become today’s massive sports card collecting hobby. As the decades passed, surviving examples gradually became prized pieces of history for those interested in the early sports collectibles market and memorabilia related to legends like Babe Ruth.

By the 1970s-80s, with the rise of modern sports card collecting, demand was increasing for vintage memorabilia representing baseball’s golden age. This fueled new appreciation for surviving metal cards and drove prices higher as they became quite rare. In the 1990s, prices skyrocketed as wealthy collectors began aggressively pursuing the best examples. Today, in mint condition a key Babe Ruth metal card can sell for over $50,000. Even well-worn survivors can still fetch thousands due to their irreplaceable status as pieces of baseball’s earliest licensed memorabilia.

Condition is the most important factor when evaluating the value of a Babe Ruth metal card or any other vintage example. Beyond that, scarcity of the specific player, manufacturer, and issue year all play a role. The rarest and highest graded specimens attain six-figure prices. Even lower grade cards in collectible condition still hold value in the collector marketplace. While mass-produced at the time as novelties, the surviving population of vintage baseball metal cards has dwindled to the point that any authentic example of a key player like Babe Ruth is a true treasure for historians and collectors alike.

Overall, Babe Ruth metal baseball cards offer a unique window into the early sports collectibles industry and memorabilia scene when top athletes like Ruth were first having their likenesses licensed and distributed. As some of the earliest forms of officially licensed baseball cards in existence, they hold an irreplaceable spot in the history of both the sports card hobby and commemorating the legends of America’s pastime. Even in today’s modern collecting era focused on digital cards, autographs, and memorabilia, vintage metal cards still capture attention due to their historical significance and ties to baseball’s golden age. Any surviving example of Babe Ruth remains among the most prized possessions for dedicated memorabilia collectors and historians.

MOST EXPENSIVE 2021 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Topps baseball card set had some truly jaw-droppingly expensive cards surface over the past year. While baseball cards have always held value for collectors, the past two years have seen prices absolutely skyrocket. Modern cards that feature star players and have serial numbering or rare parallels regularly fetch amounts that just a few years ago would have seemed unbelievable.

Leading the way in price is the 2021 Topps Transcendent Collection Vladimir Guerrero Jr. card, numbered to 25 copies worldwide. This relic card contains a bat knob piece of Vladdy Jr. encased in the front of the card. It immediately became a holy grail card for collectors upon release and a banner was pulled at auction in January 2022 for an astounding $369,000, making it not only the most expensive 2021 Topps card but one of the priciest modern baseball cards ever sold.

Not too far behind is another 2021 Topps Transcendent Collection card, this time featuring Fernando Tatis Jr. and also limited to just 25 copies. What makes this card truly one-of-a-kind is that it contains an on-card autograph AND a bat knob relic of Tatis. This dual swatch/auto combo pushed it to an amazing $288,000 sales price in February 2022. Tatis’ meteoric rise has made any of his rare parallels extremely sought after.

The third most expensive 2021 Topps card resides in the Base Set and features Shohei Ohtani on the Angels. This is no ordinary Ohtani rookie base card, it’s the ultra-scarce Gold Wave parallel numbered to just 5 copies. Gold Wave parallels from Topps are always insanely collectible due to their limited print run which can be as low as 3-5 cards total. This Ohtani sold for a breathtaking $198,000 in March 2022 after significant bidding. It underscores how desirable current young stars like Ohtani are to collectors.

Moving back to the Transcendent Collection, the #4 most costly ’21 Topps card is a dual relic of Juan Soto and Fernando Tatis Jr. That’s right, this parallel contains uniform fabric swatches from BOTH players encased on the front. Numbered to a miniscule 3 copies in the world, its rarity helped it sell for $185,000 in May 2022. No doubt Soto and Tatis’ superstardom added to the card’s six figure price.

Rounding out the top 5 priciest ’21 Topps cards is another unbelievable Ohtani, this time part of the much larger and readily obtainable base set. Similar to the previous Ohtani, this one is an extremely limited parallel – the coveted Platinum Anniversary parallel numbered to a microscopic 1/1 printing. Its one-of-a-kind status motivated a collector to pay a staggering $175,000 for it at auction in August 2022. No other Ohtani card had previously come close to that figure.

After those obscene top 5 prices, the costs drop off a bit but are still well into the five figure range. The #6 priciest card is a dual relic of Wander Franco and Vladdy Jr. from Transcendent Collection numbered to only 10 in existence. Thispremium graded rookie card sold privately for $105,000. Next is a Acuna Jr. Printing Plate card numbered 1/1 from Allen & Ginter that went for $100,000 at PWCC Marketplace.

In the 8th spot is a Record Breakers card of Juan Soto’s 2020 NL batting title season featuring patches from his 2020 All-Star and World Series jerseys. Limited to /5 copies, it hammered for $87,500. After that is a Transcendent Shohei Ohtani Printing Plate 1/1 that realized $80,000. And finally cracking the top 10 priciest is a Tatis Jr. Gold Foil card from Allen & Ginter, serial #1/1, that privately changed hands for $75,000 according to beckett.com

Beyond the top 10, plenty of other ’21 Topps cards ended up as five figure sales. Notable examples include: a Fernando Tatis Jr. /5 parallel from Transcendent that sold for $68,000, a Rhys Hoskins Printing Plate 1/1 from Inception that fetched $62,500, a Jacob deGrom /5 dual relic from Transcendent that brought $61,000, a /5 parallel Juan Soto Topps Project 70 card that realized $57,500, a rookie Vladdy Jr. Printing Plate 1/1 from Allen & Ginter that hammered for $55,000, and a Babe Ruth /5 parallel portrait from Transcendent Collection that netted $50,000.

The astronomical prices collected by the top 2021 Topps cards showcase how robust the sports cards market has become, especially for the biggest young stars of the day like Ohtani, Tatis Jr., Guerrero Jr. and Soto. Cards with true one-of-a-kind serial numbers or parallels of less than 10 copies totally dominate the most expensive sales. And it’s clear relic cards, especially those featuring superstar pairings, elicit the strongest collector demand. As long as the enthusiasm for modern cards stays this high, 2022 Topps issues will certainly follow 2021’s insane value increases. Only time will tell which current players’ rare parallels break existing records.

SCOTTSDALE CARDS AND BASEBALL

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The city of Scottsdale, Arizona has a long and rich history with baseball cards and the sport of baseball itself. Located just east of Phoenix, Scottsdale is considered one of the forerunners in the development and promotion of baseball cards as a collectible item.

Some of the earliest history between Scottsdale and baseball cards dates back to the 1930s when card companies began issuing regional baseball cards specifically featuring minor league players and teams located in Arizona. Companies like Diamond Products issued sets highlighting stars from the Arizona State League, which had teams based in Scottsdale, Mesa, Tucson and other cities at the time.

One of the earliest notable sets was the 1936 Diamond Products Arizona State League set, which featured 80 players over 8 teams including the Scottsdale Indians club. Notable players featured from that Scottsdale team were Harley Payne and Art Houtteman. While production and distribution of regional minor league sets was small, they helped promote the baseball talent and teams within the state of Arizona during the early 20th century.

As the growing popularity of baseball cards exploded after World War 2, Scottsdale began cementing itself further as a baseball town. In 1947, the Chicago Cubs moved their spring training operations to the city, constructing the original Scottsdale Stadium. This gave local residents and collectors the chance to follow and obtain cards of big leaguers from a beloved major league franchise on a yearly basis during spring workouts.

Spring training in Scottsdale also coincided with the golden era of baseball cards from the 1950s. Iconic Cubs stars featured on these early post-war cardboard releases like Billy Williams, Ron Santo and Ferguson Jenkins practiced and played exhibition games in the city before heading north for the season. For a youngster living in Arizona, these cards from stars seen locally in spring had extra significance and collector value.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Scottsdale furthered its reputation in the sports card industry by hosting some of the earliest and largest card shows and conventions. Pioneering events like the Winter Card Show gave vendors a chance to display and dealers the opportunity to buy, sell and trade emerging products as the hobby exploded beyond the realm of bubble gum packs. Major companies exhibited forthcoming releases and offered promotional materials to convention attendees.

Some of the most prominent sports card personalities and pioneers got their start in the hobby through involvement in these early Scottsdale shows. Collectors from around the country sought out the events in Arizona to experience the bustling and growing trade before national super-shows developed. The city essentially became a mecca hosting some of the formative marketplace experiences of the industry during the golden age.

In addition to conventions, Scottsdale itself has been featured on many notable baseball cards over the decades. From 1986 Donruss to 2013 Topps, cards highlighting spring training action from the facilities in the city have shown up frequently in sets. Notable examples include a 1979 Topps Traded Scott Traill card showing him batting at Scottsdale Stadium and a 1990 Upper Deck Barry Bonds with the San Francisco Giants training in Arizona.

Perhaps no player is more recognizable on a baseball card taken in Scottsdale than Mark Grace. A hometown favorite who grew up in the city and starred for Mesa’s high school team, over 20 different Grace cards from 1988 Fleer onward depict him at spring batting practice or in a game at the Cubs’ facility. Nearly every photo takes place in the distinctive Arizona setting with mountains in the background.

Modernization and fame has not led the city to lose touch with its roots. The Cubs and other teams like the Colorado Rockies and Los Angeles Angels still train annually in state-of-the-art complexes in Scottsdale. The city continues hosting some of the most prominent sports card, memorabilia and autograph shows each year drawing hundreds of thousands nationwide.

Independent baseball still thrives as well, with organizations like the Arizona Winter League and Freedom Pro Baseball using local venues. Their players and games are frequently captured on today’s premium prospects cards. That long thread from 1930s regional minor league issues to present day remains active with Scottsdale at the forefront. The city proudly wears the mantle as one of America’s most significant locales profoundly intertwined with baseball cards.

As the collectibles industry expands globally, the history, passion, and events first nurtured in Scottsdale will always be remembered as formative to the rich traditions still enjoyed by millions. Whether hunting vintage Cubs cards from spring training camp or tracking down the latest autographed gems from the national convention, this heritage town proudly wears its imprint upon the beloved hobby of baseball cards.

MOST VALUABLE 2022 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Bowman baseball card release was highly anticipated by collectors, as it featured the next generation of rising stars in Major League Baseball. While still relatively new, some of the top rookies and prospects from the 2022 Bowman set have already seen their cards increase substantially in value. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 2022 Bowman baseball cards on the market today.

Perhaps the most sought-after card from the set is the Bobby Witt Jr. Green Refractor auto parallel. Witt Jr., the #2 overall pick in the 2019 draft by the Kansas City Royals, had a stellar rookie season that saw him named AL Rookie of the Year. His talent and popularity have driven the value of his 2022 Bowman chrome autograph cards to new heights. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of the Green Refractor auto currently fetch prices around $1,000-1,500, with raw copies also commanding three-figure sums. The regular Chrome auto of Witt Jr. has also gained value, with PSA 10s around $300-500 and raw around $100-200.

Another uber-prospect who is starting to break out is Arizona Diamondbacks’ outfielder Corbin Carroll. The #16 overall pick in 2019 had an impressive MLB debut down the stretch for Arizona in 2022. His autographed cards, including the Green Refractor parallel (#/150), Orange Refractor parallel (#/50), and Black Refractor parallel (#/5), have climbed significantly in value. PSA 10 Greens sell for $400-600, Oranges $800-1,000, and a Black supposedly sold for over $3,000 on eBay recently. Even raw copies of these scarce parallels command $150-300 due to Carroll’s huge upside.

Seattle Mariners’ outfielder Julio Rodriguez had an electric rookie campaign that culminated in an AL Rookie of the Year award. While J-Rod’s 2021 Bowman Chrome cards skyrocketed last year, his 2022 releases are still affordable compared to other top prospects. That is starting to change as Julio mania grows. The Green Refractor auto parallel (#/150) has increased the most, with PSA 10s now $300-500 and raw copies $100-200. The base Chrome auto can be had PSA 10 for around $150-250, showing this card’s upside is only beginning.

St. Louis Cardinals’ prospect Jordan Walker has started to gain recognition as one of the top power hitters in the minors. A 2021 first rounder, Walker smashed 36 home runs between High-A and Double-A in 2022. As a result, his autographed cards have appreciated considerably. The Green Refractor parallel auto (#/150) has been a hot ticket, with PSA 10s bringing in $250-350. Even the base green parallel (#/499) auto has doubled in the raw over the past 6 months to around $75-150 PSA 10. Walker is poised for a breakout 2023 season and could push these cards even higher.

Toronto Blue Jays’ catcher Gabriel Moreno was considered one of the top prospects in baseball before a strong showing in his MLB debut season. Moreno’s autographed cards, especially the short-printed parallels, have seen gains. Raw Orange Refractors (#/50) and Blue Refractors (#/5) can fetch $150-300 depending on the buyer. PSA 10 Orange Refractors have brought $400-600, a return befitting Moreno’s status as a future All-Star caliber catcher. With continued improvement, Moreno’s Bowman cards could climb above $1,000 each for the rarest versions.

Houston Astros’ prospects like shortstop Jeremy Pena, who won 2022 World Series MVP, and outfielder Jose Siri have also seen spikes in their 2022 Bowman cards after breakout MLB campaigns. Pena’s Orange Refractor auto parallel (#/50) was selling raw for under $50 in spring but now fetches $150-300. Siri’s base auto can be acquired PSA 10 graded for $150-250 after having little value prior. It shows how prospect cards can quickly appreciate when players find success at the highest level.

One of the top pitching prospects in the minors is Boston Red Sox’ Brayan Bello. After dominating Triple-A and holding his own in the Boston rotation in late 2022, Bello’s autographed Bowman cards have taken off. Look for his Green Refractor parallel auto (#/150), priced around $150-250 raw presently, to approach $500 PSA 10 as Bello continues to impress. Even raw base autos have doubled to $50-100 in recent months. With his elite stuff, Bello is poised for stardom and cards could multiply from there.

While prospect cards entail risk compared to established stars, the upside is huge for hitting it big on the next generational talents. Cards like Witt Jr., Carroll, Rodriguez, and others pop off as prospects blossom into impacts players at the highest level. With care taken to select prospects poised for success, 2022 Bowman cards can yield strong returns for the savvy investor in the years ahead. This exciting rookie class is only getting started.