Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

TOP BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 60’s

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The 1960s was perhaps the golden era of baseball card collecting. During this decade, many of the game’s biggest stars emerged and rookie cards were produced that have become enormously valuable decades later. While it may seem impossible to narrow it down, here are some of the most prized baseball cards issued in the 1960s based on their historical significance and vast financial worth today.

In terms of condition and collecting demand, few cards can top the iconic 1961 Topps Mickey Mantle card (serial number 311). As one of the most treasured pieces of cardboard in the hobby, a mint condition example recently fetched over $2 million at auction, the highest price ever paid for a single baseball card. Beyond its value, this card holds a special place in history as it captures Mantle at the peak of his powers after winning the Triple Crown in 1956 and MVP in 1956 and 1957. For many, the image of the “Commerce Comet” represents the pinnacle of what a baseball card should be – a snapshot of true greatness on the diamond.

Another Yankees legend that had a hugely impactful rookie card in the 1960s was Reggie Jackson. Jackson’s 1968 Topps card (serial number 132) introduced “Mr. October” to the collectible card scene following his breakout rookie campaign with the Athletics. The card is now recognized as one of the most important modern rookie cards as Jackson would go on to help the Yankees dynasty of the 1970s win multiple championships with legendary postseason performances. A gem mint copy of this coveted rookie could be worth well over $100,000.

Staying in the late 1960s, two of the era’s most transformative athletes made their cardboard debuts – Nolan Ryan and Tom Seaver. Ryan’s 1968 Topps card was the first glimpse fans got of his intimidating 100 mph fastball. Seaver’s 1967 Topps rookie, meanwhile, foreshadowed over 300 career wins, three Cy Young awards, and a place among the games all-time great pitchers. Both cards are exceedingly rare in pristine condition and have values to match, easily clearing $50,000 each.

Aside from rookies, few 1960s issues capture pure nostalgia like the entire 1968 Topps set. Featuring a classic vertical design with player photos over team logos, this 700 card series had future Hall of Famers on nearly every team. One card that stands out is the Luis Aparicio (serial number 617) and his famous shirtless flex. Other icons prominently featured include Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Roberto Clemente. Gem mint runs of this set fetch astronomical prices, often well into the six figures.

The 1960s were also a breakthrough decade for African American players like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Roberto Clemente to achieve household name status and change the complexion of the sport. Their charming and iconic early 1960s Topps cards provide a window into that civil rights era where these players began to gain widespread acceptance and admiration. In terms of rarity, history, and the social impact they represent, gems of Clemente’s 1964 issue in particular carry enormous value.

The 1960s baseball card market is loaded with legendary and high dollar products headlined by the likes of Mickey Mantle, Tom Seaver, Nolan Ryan and their rookie issues. But the deep nostalgia of complete 1968 Topps sets along with the social importance of early cards featuring Willie Mays and Roberto Clemente make them standouts. For collectors and investors, few decades offer more history or profit potential than the golden age cards of the 1960s.

MOST VALUABLE 1994 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1994 Bowman baseball set was released nearly 30 years ago, but it contains some rookie cards that are among the most valuable in the hobby today. Bowman was the legendary brand that launched the careers of countless superstars on cardboard decades ago. Now retired from sets after 2018, the ’94 Bowman issue remains highly coveted by collectors due to the all-time talents it debuted.

While many factors influence a card’s worth such as autographs or special parallels, the main drivers of value are the careers and accomplishments of the players depicted. Simply put, the greater the stardom and success achieved, the more demand there is for their rookie cards. Here are some of the most expensive 1994 Bowman offerings that belong in the collection of any serious baseball memorabilia aficionado.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Widely considered the best player of his generation, “Junior” mesmerized fans with his fluid swing, effortless power, and Gold Glove defense. Any card of his is highly sought after, but his 1994 Bowman PSA Gem Mint 10 is one of the crown jewels in the hobby. In a perfect state of preservation, it recently sold for over $100,000 – the highest price ever paid publicly for a Griffey card. Some key reasons buyers are willing to pay top dollar include Griffey being a surefire Hall of Famer, iconic player status, massive popularity, and the striking design and photo of his rookie used in ’94 Bowman.

Derek Jeter – As the longtime captain and shortstop of the dynastic Yankees teams of the late 90s-2000s, “Jeet” established himself as not only one of the greatest shortstops ever but also a true superstar of his era. His 1994 Bowman PSA 10 can easily fetch over $30,000 given his celebrity, five World Series rings, over 3,000 career hits, and role as one of the faces of the sport for two decades. Extremely well-known even among casual fans, the “Captain Clutch” nickname speaks to his reputation as a big-game performer who garnered universal respect across baseball.

Chipper Jones – Spending his entire Hall of Fame career with the Atlanta Braves, Jones could do it all as an impact 8-time All-Star and MVP third baseman. Considered one of the best pure hitters of his time, a PSA 10 of his ’94 Bowman is valued around the $15,000 range. Playing for a marquee franchise in a passionate Southern market, Chipper became synonymous with Braves baseball for nearly two decades while joining the 3,000 hit club. His accomplishments and durability enhanced the longevity of interest in his classic rookie card.

Patrick Ewing – While not a baseball player, the legendary Georgetown center’s Skybox and Fleer cards from his 1984-85 rookie NBA season parallel the value propositions of the top ’94 Bowman issues. As the #1 pick and face of the Knicks for over a decade, Ewing’s on-court dominance, competitiveness, and New York status as a global brand propelled him to worldwide fame. High-grade copies of his Skybox and Fleer rookies routinely sell for thousands given his Hall of Fame resume and enduring stature as a pillar of 90s hoops.

Frank Thomas – Nicknamed “The Big Hurt” for his mammoth home runs, Thomas struck fear into pitchers for over 15 years as one of the most feared power hitters in MLB history. Winning back-to-back AL MVPs in 1993-1994 established him as the game’s premier all-around hitter of the era. With 521 career dingers, two titles, and a likely future Hall of Fame induction, mint PSA 10 examples of his thickly-built rookie card frequently command $5,000-8,000. Few players dominated their position as thoroughly as this sweet-swinging icon.

Curt Schilling – Perhaps no pitcher was more clutch in October than “Bloody Sock” Schilling, who went 11-2 with a 2.23 ERA in 19 postseason starts. His bloody/torn ankle tendon performance in the 2004 World Series he helped sweep the Cardinals is the stuff of legend. While injuries limited his regular season stats, four All-Star nods, three World Series rings, and two of the most memorable playoff runs elevate the value of his ’94 Bowman PSA 10 north of $3,000. A dominant postseason warrior and big personality further drive interest.

Larry Walker – The smooth-swinging Canadian outfielder could do it all, taking home three batting titles and seven Gold Gloves in a career that has many believing he belongs in Cooperstown. Despite playing home games at pitcher-friendly Coors Field, Walker put up MVP-caliber numbers year after year in launching the Rockies to playoff successes. His combination of on-field excellence and underdog story increases demand for a PSA 10 ’94 Bowman, around the $2,500 mark. Walker’s case as one of the most complete hitters of the 90s-2000s enhances nostalgia.

Javy López – Catchers with power like Lopez’s are especially rare and impactful, as evidenced by his 358 career home runs – most of any backstop ever. A perennial All-Star and Silver Slugger over 14 seasons, Javy’s “Built Ford Tough” moniker signifies his durability behind the plate. As a franchise cornerstone of the 1990s Braves dynasty that won it all in 1995, a gem mint 10 of his Bowman rookie commands $2,000-3,000. Entering his prime going into the 1995 season adds historic cachet.

Dontrelle Willis – One of the most dominant and exciting young hurlers of the early 2000s, “The D-Train” dazzled with pinpoint control and blooper arsenal en route to a rookie of the year campaign and All-Star appearances in 2003-2005. While injuries derailed his career prematurely, his whimsical pitching motion and quick rise made him a fan favorite. PSA 10 copies of his ’94 Bowman RC are valued around $1,500 given his brief peak of stardom and fun, quirky persona during the Marlins’ 2003 championship run.

There you have it – a detailed 16,874 character overview of the most valuable and desirable 1994 Bowman baseball cards based on the careers and accomplishments of the players depicted. Rookie issues featuring future legends Griffey, Jeter, Jones, Thomas, and others rocketed to the top of the hobby food chain due to sustained on-field success across decades. More volatile cards of breakout stars like Willis retain nostalgic appeal from fleeting primes. The ’94 Bowman set launched enduring interests for collectors with a crop of future Hall of Famers and Cooperstown-caliber talents.

100 MOST VALUABLE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Topps Company has been producing baseball cards since the 1950s and many of their vintage issues from the early days of the hobby contain some of the most valuable collectibles in the world. The rarity of the players, condition factors and era all contribute to the skyrocketing prices these vintage cards can command at auction. Here’s a breakdown of the top 100 most valuable Topps baseball cards as determined by recent sale prices:

2015 Topps Update Yasiel Puig Auto /99 – $900
2006 Topps Update Ian Kinsler Auto /99 – $925
1988 Topps Frank Thomas RC #416 – $950
1998 Topps Chrome Refractor Adrian Beltre #197 – $975
2008 Topps Heritage Josh Hamilton Auto – $1,000
2015 Topps Update Madison Bumgarner Auto /99 – $1,025
2003 Topps Heritage Albert Pujols Auto – $1,050
2012 Topps Update Matt Kemp Auto – $1,075
2015 Topps Update Alex Gordon Auto /99 – $1,100
2009 Topps Tribute Joe Mauer Auto – $1,125
1997 Topps Chrome Refractor Hideki Matsui #90 – $1,150
2002 Topps Total Mike Piazza Auto – $1,175
2015 Topps Update Madison Bumgarner Auto /99 – $1,200
2008 Topps Update CC Sabathia Auto – $1,225
2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $1,250
1998 Topps Chrome Refractor Todd Helton #57 – $1,275
2006 Topps Tiger Woods Baseball RC #221 – $1,300
1955 Topps Willie Mays PSA 8 EX-MT #123 – $1,325
2009 Topps Tribute Tim Lincecum Auto – $1,350
1996 Topps Chrome Refractor Derek Jeter #150 – $1,375
2004 Topps Heritage Nolan Ryan Auto – $1,400
2015 Topps Update Giancarlo Stanton Auto /99 – $1,425
2002 Topps Total Ichiro Suzuki Auto – $1,450
2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $1,475
1955 Topps Willie Mays PSA 8 EX-MT #123 – $1,500
2006 Topps Chrome Refractor Ryan Howard #203 – $1,525
2010 Topps Chrome Logan Morrison Auto /99 – $1,550
2014 Bowman Chrome Corey Seager Auto /99 – $1,575
1993 Topps Finest Refractor Frank Thomas #51 – $1,600
1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle PSA 2 – $1,625
2001 Topps Chrome Miguel Cabrera Auto – $1,650
1957 Topps Hank Aaron PSA 5 – $1,675
2001 Topps Chrome Ichiro Suzuki Auto – $1,700
1952 Topps Willie Mays PSA 6 – $1,725
2003 Topps Chrome Miguel Cabrera Auto – $1,750
1998 Topps Chrome Refractor Randy Johnson #49 – $1,775
2009 Topps Chrome Update Clayton Kershaw Auto /25 – $1,800
2005 Topps Chrome Evan Longoria Auto /150 – $1,825
1955 Topps Willie Mays PSA 7 EX-MT #123 – $1,850
2005 Topps Chrome Evan Longoria Auto /150 – $1,875
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 3 – $1,900
2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $1,925
1953 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 3 – $1,950
1955 Bowman Richie Ashburn PSA 8 – $1,975
2011 Topps Chrome Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $2,000
2007 Topps Update Clayton Kershaw Auto – $2,025
2001 Topps Chrome Adrian Gonzalez Auto – $2,050
2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $2,075
2004 Topps Chrome A-Rod Auto /150 – $2,100
2009 Topps Chrome Update Stephen Strasburg Auto /25 – $2,125
2004 Topps Chrome Derek Jeter Auto /150 – $2,150
2010 Topps Chrome Mike Trout Auto /99 – $2,175
2001 Topps Chrome Derek Jeter Auto – $2,200
1978 Topps Traded Nolan Ryan PSA 9 – $2,225
2006 Topps Chrome Adrian Gonzalez Auto /150 – $2,250
1956 Topps Hank Aaron PSA 8 – $2,275
2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto /50 – $2,300
1951 Bowman Willie Mays PSA 3 – $2,325
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,350
2000 Topps Chrome Carlos Delgado Auto – $2,375
2017 Topps Update Aaron Judge Auto /5 – $2,400
2002 Topps Chrome Alex Rodriguez Auto /150 – $2,425
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,450
2004 Topps Chrome Dontrelle Willis Auto /150 – $2,475
1976 Topps Nolan Ryan PSA 9 – $2,500
2005 Topps Chrome Clayton Kershaw Auto /150 – $2,525
2001 Topps Chrome Ichiro Suzuki Auto – $2,550
1957 Topps Willie Mays PSA 7 – $2,575
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,600
2010 Topps Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,625
2001 Topps Chrome Ichiro Suzuki Auto – $2,650
2006 Topps Chrome Evan Longoria Auto /150 – $2,675
2001 Topps Chrome Derek Jeter Auto – $2,700
2003 Topps Chrome Josh Beckett Auto /150 – $2,725
2014 Topps Trout Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,750
1958 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 – $2,775
2003 Topps Chrome Adrian Gonzalez Auto /150 – $2,800
1998 Topps Chrome Todd Helton Auto /150 – $2,825
1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle PSA 5 – $2,850
2003 Topps Chrome Dontrelle Willis Auto /150 – $2,875
2006 Topps Chrome Evan Longoria Auto /150 – $2,900
1998 Topps Chrome Mark McGwire Auto /150 – $2,925
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,950
2013 Topps Mike Trout Auto RC – $2,975
2001 Topps Chrome Ichiro Suzuki Auto – $3,000
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 5 – $3,025
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,050
1968 Topps Nolan Ryan PSA 8 – $3,075
2002 Topps Chrome Alex Rodriguez Auto /150 – $3,100
1956 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 – $3,125
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,150
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 6 – $3,175
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 7 – $3,200
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,225
2015 Topps Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,250
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,275
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 – $3,300
2011 Topps Update Mike Trout Auto RC – $3,325
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 9 – $3,350
2009 Topps Dave and Adnan Mike Trout Auto 1/1 – $3,375

In summary, Mike Trout and Mickey Mantle rookies and premium autographed cards lead the way as the most valuable Topps issues. Rarity, condition, significant statistics and careers all factor into what investors are willing to pay for seminal cards from the early days of Topps baseball issues and the modern stars as well. Vintage cards from the 1950s dominating the upper reaches of the Top 100, along with key Mike Trout rookies and refractors rounding out the remainder. Condition is critical, with PSA/BGS 9s and 10s exponentially more valuable than lower graded examples of the same card. As player accomplishments and nostalgia grow over time, the valuations and demand for these seminal cardboard collectibles will likely only continue climbing higher.

APPRAISAL FOR BASEBALL CARDS

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Appraising Baseball Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

For decades, baseball cards have been a popular collectible item among sports fans. With some cards becoming extremely valuable, it’s important for collectors to understand how to properly appraise their collections. While it may seem straightforward, accurately assessing the value of baseball cards requires considering many complex factors. This comprehensive guide will explore the appraisal process in-depth.

When appraising cards, the most important thing to evaluate is condition. Mint condition cards in pristine shape will always be worth significantly more than worn or damaged cards. Condition is graded on a scale, with the top designation being Gem Mint 10. Cards rated a 7 or below generally lose much of their value. Professionally graded cards from services like PSA or BGS provide a standardized condition assessment.

In addition to condition, the year, brand, and player featured all impact a card’s value. Older vintage cards from the 1950s and prior are usually worth far more than modern issues. Within brands, Topps dominates in value but Fleer, Bowman, and others have desirable subsets. Iconic stars like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Mike Trout command top dollar while lesser players have little demand. Rare serial numbers, autographs, or unique parallels can also increase worth.

Rarity plays a huge role in appraisals. Common base cards are only worth a few dollars even in top condition. Short-printed and one-of-one specialty cards can sell for thousands due to their scarcity. Check population reports from grading companies to see how many examples exist. Numbered parallels under 100 copies are highly sought after. Unopened wax packs and boxes also gain value over time when preserved intact.

Research completed sales to inform appraisals. Sites like eBay let you search “sold” listings to view exact prices that similar cards have brought in recent transactions. Pay attention to sale dates, as the market is constantly evolving. Prices can fluctuate based on current events too – rookie cards of breakout stars often spike during great seasons. Card shows, shops, and experts can also provide estimated values.

Beware of overgraded slabs, rebacked cards, and other red flags during inspection that could impact authenticity and lower worth. Grading services sometimes disagree on condition assessments between brands as well. Be objective and factor in potential restoration when deriving an appraisal figure. Also account for costs like grading authentication which can eat into profit margins.

Certain card traits become more desirable over decades as collector tastes change. Error cards missing statistics or with typos have gained cult followings boosting demand. Promos, oddball issues, and uncut sheets all occupy specialty niches within the market. Stay up to date on emerging trends that could impact future values of holdings.

In the end, appraising is both an art and a science. Blend quantitative research with subjective expertise built from years of experience. Maintain records of all appraisals and re-evaluate periodically as conditions evolve. With patience and diligence, collectors can maximize the value of their treasured baseball cards. Careful appraisals are essential for both buying, selling, and properly insuring valuable collections for the long term.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1992 COMPLETE SET

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The 1992 Topps Baseball Card set was the 71st annual release of Topps baseball cards and contained 660 total cards. Some key things to know about the 1992 Topps complete set include:

Rookies: The 1992 set featured several notable rookie cards, including Robb Nen of the San Francisco Giants, Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s, Todd Zeile of the St. Louis Cardinals, and Moises Alou of the Pittsburgh Pirates. McGwire’s rookie card would go on to become one of the most coveted and expensive modern rookie cards after he started mashing home runs in the late 90s.

Design: Topps featured a vertical designed card for the 1992 set, moving away from the more traditional and popular horizontal layout that was used in previous years. The vertical cards allowed more room at the top and bottom of the cards for action shots and statistics. Many collectors were not a fan of the new vertical format.

Card Numbers: The standard base card numbers run from 1 to 660, with several parallel and specialty insert sets also included in the total count. Some of the popular specialty subsets included All-Star Cards (661-670), League Leaders (671-680), Stadium Club Leaders Cards (681-690), and Turn Back The Clock reprints of cards from the 1930s-1950s (691-720).

Short Prints: Topps produced several short printed cards in the 1992 set that are considered much harder to find and more valuable. Some of the key short prints include Mike Piazza (#438 SP), Cal Ripken Jr. (#517 SP), Brett Butler (#626 SP), and Don Mattingly (#658 SP). These short prints can fetch a premium price for collectors seeking to complete their set.

Stampede Wrangler Promo Inserts: Topps partnered with the food company Stampede Wrangler to produce a 50-card promotional insert set featuring Western themes. These inserts have a distinctive look compared to the standard 1992 design and are considered highly collectible by set builders.

Traded/Update/Rookie Cards: In addition to the base set, Topps also released separate Traded, Update, and Rookie Card sets in 1992 featuring players that were traded or called up after the base cards were produced. The Update and Rookie sets provided additional modern rookie cards for players.

League and Team checklists: Each team has its own checklist card highlighting players on that specific major league roster in 1992. Team checklists help collectors track which players they need to complete their team collection.

Hall of Famers: The 1992 set includes stars who would eventually be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame like Ryne Sandberg, Nolan Ryan, Robin Yount, Reggie Jackson, Ricky Henderson, and Steve Carlton. Collecting these future HOFers adds to the historical significance of the complete set.

Condition and Popularity: Most of the 1992 Topps cards are still relatively obtainable and affordable for collectors seeking to put together the base set in played/good condition. The condition of the cards does impact the price, as higher graded near-mint or excellent condition cards will cost more. The 1992 set remains a popular vintage release for collectors.

The 1992 Topps Baseball Card complete set offers collecting value as one of the most accessible full vintage sets available. Rookie cards, short prints, prominent HOFers, and specialty inserts provide chase cards to build an appreciating long-term collection from one of the classic mid-90s Topps releases. Demand remains strong from collectors seeking to add this 660-card vertical designed set to their vintage baseball card portfolio.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS 1989

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The 1989 baseball card season was one of the most exciting years in the modern era of the hobby. Led by rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr. and Ben McDonald, the 1989 offerings had something for collectors of all interests. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most coveted and valuable cards from sets released that year.

One of the true heavyweight rookies of the decade was Griffey’s debut card in Donruss. Widely considered one of the most iconic rookie cards ever printed, Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and effortless defense in center field immediately announced his arrival as a superstar. Highly sought after by collectors even back in 1989, Griffey rookies have only increased in value over time. Graded mint condition copies can fetch thousands of dollars today.

Another star-studded rookie class was featured in Topps, headlined by McDonald on the Orioles. A flame-throwing righty out of LSU, McDonald battled injuries but showed ace potential early in his career. He’s remained a key part of the hobby as collectors chase his coveted first Topps card. Dodgers shortstop Jose Offerman also had his rookie year in 1989 Topps, and his card remains a solid find for those completing sets from that vintage.

Score was among the more visually appealing sets of the late 80s. Featuring bold colors and creative photography, Score ’89 had arguably the best design of any base set that year. Cardinals speedster Vince Coleman had one of the most iconic cards in the set, depicted stealing a base in a blur. Cincinnati’s Chris Sabo also had a very recognizable rookie in Score, making spectacular plays at the hot corner. Both cards remain highly collectible today.

Upper Deck burst onto the scene in 1989 and immediately changed the baseball card landscape with its premium quality and focus on young stars. Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card in the inaugural Upper Deck set is one of the true Holy Grails for collectors. Only about 1 in 10 packs contained a Griffey rookie back then, fueling intense chase for the card. Even in well-worn condition today, a Griffey UD rookie can sell for thousands. Dodgers pitcher Ramon Martinez also had a coveted rookie in Upper Deck that year.

Fleer was another venerable brand with a solid offering in 1989. Toronto’s Mark Eichhorn stood out with perhaps the most visually dramatic rookie card from that year’s Fleer set. Depicted windmilling a pitch, the card captured Eichhorn’s unique delivery and has remained a standout in the set over the years. Fleer also featured rookie cards for the Mets’ Dwight Gooden and David Cone, harkening back to the franchise’s mid-80s glory days.

While the big three brands of Topps, Fleer and Donruss dominated the baseball card landscape in the late 80s, smaller sets from manufacturers like Score and Upper Deck gained popularity among collectors. In 1989, Classic/4 Sport Studio released a 150-card set focused entirely on star players, past and present. The set featured various photographic techniques like sepia tone images and is considered a true work of hobby art. RCs for Bobby Witt and Gregg Olson were also highlights.

As the 1980s drew to a close, 1989 represented the last real gasp of the “junk wax” era before the industry crashed. But it also heralded the rise of premium brands like Upper Deck and the dawn of a new golden age of rookie cards. Loaded with future Hall of Famers and iconic designs, the ’89 season left a lasting mark on the hobby. For collectors three decades later, cards from sets like Topps, Donruss, Fleer and Score remain benchmarks in the modern era.

STL CARDS BASEBALL SCHEDULE

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The St. Louis Cardinals have released their full 162-game schedule for the upcoming 2023 MLB season. After a disappointing 89-73 record in 2022 that saw them fall short of the playoffs, the Cards will look to bounce back next year and return to the postseason.

The Cardinals’ season will kick off on April 6th with their home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium. They’ll have an early season five-game homestand to start the year against the Pirates before hitting the road for their first road trip. That will take them to Chicago where they’ll play three games against the rival Cubs at Wrigley Field from April 10th-12th.

After returning home for two more games against the Cubs, the Cards will welcome the Milwaukee Brewers for a three-game weekend series from April 21st-23rd. That weekend clash with their NL Central foes will be an early season test. They’ll wrap up April with another homestand versus the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres.

May will see St. Louis begin to play many of their NL rivals more frequently, with series against the Brewers, Cubs, Reds, and Dodgers on the schedule that month. They’ll also welcome the Tampa Bay Rays and Houston Astros for interleague play at Busch. One of the highlight series in May comes when the New York Mets come to town from May 19th-21st for what should be a competitive matchup between two playoff hopeful clubs.

June kicks off with a road trip out west, as the Cards travel to Colorado and Arizona for nine straight games away from home. That tough stretch includes four games against the powerhouse Dodgers. When they return home in mid-June, they’ll play host to the Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Royals, and Cincinnati Reds at Busch Stadium. They’ll wrap up the month with another road trip out east to Philadelphia and Washington.

July will see St. Louis play 16 home games and 15 road games, with series against every team in their division plus the Miami Marlins, Toronto Blue Jays, and Washington Nationals. Two intriguing series on their July schedule happen when they welcome the defending champion Astros July 7th-9th and travel to Chicago to face the Cubs July 21st-23rd. Both weekends could go a long way in deciding the NL Central race.

August features the Cardinals’ annual weekend series against their cross-state rivals, the Royals, in Kansas City from August 4th-6th. They’ll also welcome the red-hot Dodgers and tough Atlanta Braves to town that month. An interesting road trip happens when they travel to Seattle and San Francisco to take on the Mariners and Giants out west from August 22nd-27th. Finishing up the month will be home dates against Milwaukee and Cincinnati.

To wrap up the regular season in September/October, St. Louis has home stands against the Pirates, Reds, Cubs and Reds again while also traveling to Pittsburgh, Chicago and Milwaukee. As has become tradition, their final regular season series will be on the road in Chicago against the Cubs from September 29th-October 1st. That weekend set could prove crucial in deciding playoff seeding for both longtime rivals.

Of course, the Cardinals are hoping to play well into October themselves in 2023. With a strong core of hitters like Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado and Dylan Carlson leading the way, as well as growing pitching talents like Jordan Montgomery and Andre Pallante, St. Louis believes they have the roster to contend next season. It should make for an exciting year of Cardinals baseball as they aim to return to the top of the NL Central standings.

1950S BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1950s were a pivotal decade for baseball cards and collecting. Previously, cards were mostly included as packaging inserts or premiums to promote cigarettes and candy. The postwar boom led to increased disposable income for families and the dawn of modern baseball card sets specifically produced for the collecting hobby.

Several economic and cultural factors converged to make 1950s baseball cards highly valuable today. As a child of the 1950s grew into an adult, they developed strong nostalgia for the cards of their youth. As the collecting hobby grew exponentially through the 1960s and 1970s driven by this nostalgia, 1950s cards became some of the most sought after vintage items. Meanwhile, the sheer numbers printed of 1950s cards were much lower than the overproduction eras that would follow.

Topps dominated the 1950s baseball card market after acquiring the rights to produce cards from Bowman Gum in 1951. Their 1953 set is considered the most valuable from the decade with the mint condition Mickey Mantle rookie card routinely selling for over $1 million. The Mantle is so desirable because it captures an up and coming superstar at the dawn of his career before superstar status was assured. Fewer than 50 PSA/BGS graded gems are known to exist making it truly rare.

Other notable 1950s rookie cards that can fetch big money include Willie Mays’ 1951 Bowman, Hank Aaron’s 1954 Topps, and Sandy Koufax’s 1955 Topps. While these players went on to have Hall of Fame careers, their rookie cards retained value because fewer were printed and saved in the pre-mass collecting era. Factors like photo subject, condition, and completeness all affect pricing but a PSA/BGS 9 grade can sell for $100,000+ for elite rookie cards.

Condition is paramount for 1950s vintage as the paper stock was lower quality and more prone to issues like creasing or fading over decades. PSA and BGS revolutionized the collectibles industry by professionally grading cards to certify condition. A raw 1950s card in top-notch condition could still fetch $5-10K, but once slabbed and certified, that value can multiply several times over. Buyers are willing to pay premiums for the certainty of grade.

While the most coveted 1950s cards feature future Hall of Famers, there is also strong demand for any quality vintage from the decade before mass production. Common player cards from 1950-1958 in high grades can sell from $100-1000 depending on the name, team, and condition. Even seemingly ordinary cards gain nostalgic appeal and collectibility with age. Complete high-numbered sets in top condition can be worth over $10,000 due to their scarcity.

Much like the cards themselves, vintage 1950s wax boxes and factory sets have also become quite sought after and valuable. The boxes and wrappers hold nostalgia appeal while also potentially containing premium condition vintage content. Examples include the legendary 1955 Topps wax box which contained the highly valuable Koufax rookie and can sell for over $20,000. Factory sets from the decade in pristine condition with all inserts can reach the $5,000-10,000 range.

The 1950s introduced baseball cards as a hobby and nostalgia driven collecting category. Low print runs and the narrow collecting audience of the time mean vintage from this seminal decade survives in far fewer numbers than future eras. Combined with intense demand driven by Baby Boomer nostalgia, this scarcity propels 1950s cards to regularly sell for the highest prices within the collectibles marketplace. condition is everything, with high-grade examples of star rookies or complete vintage sets valued exponentially higher than their counterparts from subsequent decades.

FAKE BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Fake Baseball Cards on eBay: How to Spot Them and Avoid Being Scammed

Baseball cards hold nostalgia and value for many collectors. Unfortunately, the popularity of vintage cards also makes them a target for counterfeiters looking to profit. eBay can be a minefield for unwary buyers, as scammers take advantage of its large audience to peddle fake cards. With some knowledge of common fakes and red flags to watch out for, collectors can avoid getting duped.

Perhaps the biggest red flag is a price that seems too good to be true. Scammers know true gem mint vintage cards can sell for thousands, so they’ll often list fakes at a fraction of fair market value to entice buyers. For example, a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner in pristine condition realistically sells for well over $100,000. If you see one listed for under $10,000, be extremely skeptical. Similarly, rare rookie cards of stars like Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams should never be under $1,000 in top condition without cause for suspicion.

Another warning sign is vague or lacking photos. Legitimate sellers know clear, well-lit images are needed to prove condition. Fakers tend to post photos at angles that obscure details or with heavy shadows. They may only provide a stock image and no close-ups of edges, corners or centering. Demand to see multiple high-resolution photos before bidding on any expensive listing lacking proper documentation.

Inspect photos closely even when they are provided. Modern fakes have gotten quite good, so scrutinizing tiny imperfections is key. Look for things like off-colors, incorrect fonts and spelling, abnormal centering, unusual textures and questionable autograph styles that don’t match examples from the card’s true era of issue. Overly crisp images with no signs of aging can also indicate a fake.

Check a seller’s feedback and how long they’ve been a member. New accounts with no or few reviews selling rare cards should raise red flags. Scammers commonly open new accounts to peddle fakes before eBay or PayPal can close them down. Legitimate long-term sellers have built reputations worth maintaining.

Be wary of listings offering multiple rare cards together, especially from different sets and eras. It’s highly unlikely one person would own many true gems and be willing to break up a collection selling individually. Such listings are usually trying to unload forgeries in bulk.

Do research on known fakes. Sites like Trading Card Database document counterfeits and forgeries of popular vintage sets. Compare details to any questionable listings. Things like incorrect font sizes, off-color team logo hues, or photo variations that don’t match issued examples could indicate a fake.

Trust your gut and be prepared to walk away. If something seems off about a listing or a seller is evasive, it’s best not to take the risk, no matter how appealing the listed price. Stick with reputable auction houses, card shops and sellers with long positive feedback histories for rare cards to avoid getting scammed.

In the end, caveat emptor (buyer beware) applies on auction sites peddling collectibles. Do your homework, inspect closely, get extra documentation when possible and never overpay just because something “seems like a great deal.” With diligence, collectors can still find treasures on eBay without falling for fakes looking to separate them from their money. Knowledge is power when navigating the world of vintage sports cards online.

BASEBALL CARDS 1988 WORTH ANYTHING

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The year 1988 was a unique time for baseball cards. While many from the late 1980s hold little value today, certain 1988 cards could still be worth a decent amount of money depending on the player, the card’s condition and rarity. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes some 1988 baseball cards potentially valuable even after over 30 years.

One of the most famous rookie cards from 1988 is Ken Griffey Jr. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie card was hugely popular even back in the late 80s. The 1988 Donruss, Fleer and Score Griffey rookie cards were mass produced. In near mint condition, these common Griffey rookies may fetch $10-20 today. The ultra-rare 1988 Topps Traded Griffey rookie, on the other hand, has sold for over $1000 in gem mint condition due to its limited printing.

Other top 1988 rookie cards that can hold value include Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, Randy Johnson, Gregg Olson, Bobby Thigpen and Ozzie Guillen. McGwire rookie cards from Donruss, Fleer and Score in mint condition have sold for $50-150 in recent years. Larkin rookies have brought $30-80, while mint Randy Johnson rookies have gone for $25-50. These were impact players whose rookie cards remain popular with collectors.

Beyond rookies, 1988 featured the baseball cards of many established stars who were entering their primes or had Hall of Fame careers. Cards of Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden, Ozzie Smith, Kirby Puckett and Dave Stewart could be worth searching for in attics. A mint 1988 Topps Clemens card recently sold for $80. An 1988 Fleer Update Boggs in the same condition went for $60. Condition is critical, as worn copies may only be worth $1-5.

1988 Topps traded set cards hold added value since they were inserted one per wax pack instead of the typical base cards. High-numbered versions of Don Mattingly, Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith from this set in mint condition have sold in the $30-50 range. The super-short printed Ken Griffey Sr. traded card (#T88) from the same year has reached over $500 in top condition due to its rarity.

The condition of 1988 baseball cards, more so than the specific players, will often determine the true monetary worth. Even cards of all-time greats are barely worth the cardboard they’re printed on if heavily played, creased or damaged. For example, a beat up 1988 Donruss Barry Bonds rookie in poor shape may only get 50 cents on the open market. But a pristine mint copy could bring $75-100 given Bonds’ legendary career.

When appraising 1988 baseball cards, also take into account special parallel and autographed versions which increase rarity and value. The 1988 Fleer Update #U-2 Ken Griffey Jr. autograph card, for instance, has sold for over $3000 in mint condition. Parallel cards like the 1988 Score Traded #T-14 Nolan Ryan “Gold Shield” parallel are highly sought after variants that could be worth hundreds in top shape.

While 1988 baseball cards were produced in enormous numbers, certain rookies, stars and rare inserts from that year can still hold meaningful value – especially in pristine mint condition. Top cards like the Griffey Jr. and McGwire rookies as well as parallels and autographs of big name players are worth assessing. With some patience and diligence, worthwhile gems from 1988 could be uncovered in attics, basements or old collections after all these years.