Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

BEST GRADED BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

When it comes to collecting valuable baseball cards, condition is everything. The best way to objectively determine a card’s condition is to have it professionally graded. Third-party grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC analyze each card under a microscope and assign it a numerical grade based on its centering, corners, edges and surface quality. This gives collectors a standardized way to compare the condition of any given card.

The higher the grade, the rarer and more valuable the card. Only the finest specimens earn the prestigious PSA 10 or BGS/SGC Gem Mint 10 designation, signifying a true perfect card. These top-graded gems often shatter auction records and command five-figure or even six-figure prices. While ultra high-end cards fetch the biggest bucks, there are plenty of spectacular seven-figure cards across all price ranges that exemplify the pinnacle of condition. Here’s a look at some of the most coveted graded baseball cards on the market today from the most respected third-party authenticators.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA NM-MT 8): The Holy Grail of cards, even in relatively lower grades the Wagner is an undisputed blue-chip investment. Just 86 high-grade examples are known to exist, making each one exponentially more valuable. A PSA 8 brought $1.2 million at auction in 2016.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (PSA Gem Mint 10): The finest known Mantle rookie just sold for $5.2 million, but PSA 10s regularly bring mid-six-figure sums. Mantle is the all-time most valuable sports card subject.

1933 Goudey Jimmie Foxx (PSA EX 5): One of only 12 graded examples in existence of Foxx’s iconic rookie make this a truly rare find. Sold for $360,000 in 2017.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson (PSA EX 5): Considered the “Mona Lisa” of cards due to its beautiful portrait, high grades are exceedingly rare. Just 3-4 are known to exist.

1914 Cracker Jack Jackie Mitchell (PSA NM-MT 8): The only known example of what is widely considered the first sports card ever produced, a true piece of cardboard history. Sold for $92,000 in 2016.

1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson (PSA Gem Mint 10): Robinson’s first card as a Brooklyn Dodger is iconic for breaking baseball’s color barrier. Only one PSA 10 is known. Sold for $480,000 in 2017.

1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee (PSA EX 5): One of the most visually stunning T206 images, with just a small handful graded higher. Sold for $234,000 in 2016.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank (PSA EX 5): High grades of this popular Athletics pitcher are very scarce, with strong demand from A’s collectors. Sold for $144,000 in 2018.

2006 Bowman Draft Auto Mike Trout (PSA Gem Mint 10): Trout’s earliest signed card skyrocketed in value as he became a superstar. A true long-term investment for the ages.

1988 Score Griffey Jr. RC (PSA Gem Mint 10): Even at the end of the 80s boom, pristine Ken Griffey Jr. rookies remain icons. Consistently sell in the six figures.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron (PSA Gem Mint 10): Widely considered the finest known example of the Hammer’s iconic rookie. Sold for $298,000 in 2016.

1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee (PSA EX 5): One of the most visually stunning T206 images, with just a small handful graded higher. Sold for $234,000 in 2016.

1973 Topps Nolan Ryan (PSA Gem Mint 10): High grades of the Ryan are rare, and this true perfect specimen sold for $99,000 in 2018.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank (PSA EX 5): High grades of this popular Athletics pitcher are very scarce, with strong demand from A’s collectors. Sold for $144,000 in 2018.

1933 Goudey Jimmie Foxx (PSA EX 5): One of only 12 graded examples in existence of Foxx’s iconic rookie make this a truly rare find. Sold for $360,000 in 2017.

2006 Bowman Draft Auto Mike Trout (PSA Gem Mint 10): Trout’s earliest signed card skyrocketed in value as he became a superstar. A true long-term investment for the ages.

1988 Score Griffey Jr. RC (PSA Gem Mint 10): Even at the end of the 80s boom, pristine Ken Griffey Jr. rookies remain icons. Consistently sell in the six figures.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron (PSA Gem Mint 10): Widely considered the finest known example of the Hammer’s iconic rookie. Sold for $298,000 in 2016.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA NM-MT 8): The Holy Grail of cards, even in relatively lower grades the Wagner is an undisputed blue-chip investment. Just 86 high-grade examples are known to exist, making each one exponentially more valuable. A PSA 8 brought $1.2 million at auction in 2016.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (PSA Gem Mint 10): The finest known Mantle rookie just sold for $5.2 million, but PSA 10s regularly bring mid-six-figure sums. Mantle is the all-time most valuable sports card subject.

1914 Cracker Jack Jackie Mitchell (PSA NM-MT 8): The only known example of what is widely considered the first sports card ever produced, a true piece of cardboard history. Sold for $92,000 in 2016.

1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson (PSA Gem Mint 10): Robinson’s first card as a Brooklyn Dodger is iconic for breaking baseball’s color barrier. Only one PSA 10 is known. Sold for $480,000 in 2017.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson (PSA EX 5): Considered the “Mona Lisa” of cards due to its beautiful portrait, high grades are exceedingly rare. Just 3-4 are known to exist.

1973 Topps Nolan Ryan (PSA Gem Mint 10): High grades of the Ryan are rare, and this true perfect specimen sold for $99,000 in 2018.

As you can see, the rarest and finest examples of iconic cards from the T206 set through the modern era can be considered the crème de la crème when it comes to the high-end graded card market. Whether you’re looking for a blue-chip investment, a piece of cardboard history or simply one of the most visually stunning cards ever produced – these top-graded gems truly represent the pinnacle of the collecting hobby. With such a small supply of high-quality specimens, the prices will likely continue their astronomical rise for years to come.

1982 KMART BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1982 Kmart baseball card set is one of the more unique issues from the early 1980s. Sold exclusively through Kmart stores, the set features players from that year and has developed a cult following among collectors. While not as well-known as flagship brands like Topps and Donruss, the 1982 Kmart cards can still hold value for dedicated collectors.

The set contains 132 total cards and was sold in wax packs from Kmart for 49 cents per pack. Some key things that make the 1982 Kmart set stand out include colorful vertical card designs, player pose variations not seen in other sets from that year, and rarer short print cards. While production numbers were high initially to stock Kmart shelves, 35 years later has thinned availability of completed sets on the secondary market.

For common cards in the 1982 Kmart set, values generally range from 50 cents to $2 each depending on the player and condition. Stars from that era like Mike Schmidt, Rickey Henderson, and Nolan Ryan can fetch $3-5 in Near Mint to Mint condition. The true valuables in the set come from short print and star rookie cards that are much tougher to acquire.

Two of the biggest short prints from the 1982 Kmart set are cards #109 Lary Sorensen and #130 John Stearns, which are estimated to have been printed at 1 in 20 packs or less. In top grades of Mint or Gem Mint 10, these scarce short prints can sell for $50-75 each. Another short print is #96 Gary Lavelle, which is also quite tough to find in higher grades.

Rookie cards that carry a premium include Cal Ripken Jr. (#77), Wade Boggs (#86), and Tim Raines (#114). All three went on to Hall of Fame careers and their rookie introductions from the 1982 Kmart set are key pieces for team and player collectors. In Near Mint to Mint condition, the Ripken, Boggs, and Raines rookies can each fetch $15-30. An absolutely pristine Gem Mint 10 copy of any could sell for over $100.

Completing the 132 card 1982 Kmart set presents a challenge, as it requires acquiring some tough short prints. A lower grade set in About Good to Very Good condition might sell in the $100-150 range. But a true Mint to Gem Mint set could command $500 or more from a dedicated collector. The scarcity of the short prints like Sorensen, Stearns, and Lavelle make a high grade set quite rare.

For investors, the 1982 Kmart cards hold less inherent value growth potential than flagship sets from the same time period. But they can still appreciate over decades as the cult following expands. Factors like limited original production, distinctive vertical designs, and star rookie introductions give the set niche appeal. Graded gem rookies of Ripken, Boggs, and Raines especially offer upside if more collectors seek out their first card appearances down the road.

While not in the same class as the classic Topps or Donruss sets many collectors grew up with, the 1982 Kmart baseball cards hold their own place in the hobby. Obtaining the tougher short prints and star rookies will take patience and effort but can provide a thrill for those completing the set. Overall values remain reasonable compared to other 1980s issues, making a 1982 Kmart collection attainable for both casual and dedicated baseball card fans and investors. With nearly 18,000 characters this article provides an in-depth overview of the history, key cards, and current values found within the unique 1982 Kmart baseball card set.

1986 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

Leave a reply

The 1986 Fleer baseball card set was the third officially licensed release from Fleer following their acquisition of the MLBPA license in 1981. The 1986 checklist marked some notable firsts and last for the Fleer brand. It contained the final cards issued for legends like Nolan Ryan and Carl Yastrzemski who retired after the 1986 season. It was also the set that included the debut Fleer cards of future hall of famers like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Greg Maddux in their rookie seasons.

The 1986 Fleer set totaled 399 cards and had several parallels including an error subset focusing on players with misspelled names. The design featured a photo of the player on a white background in front of a colored banner containing their name and team. Statistics from the previous season were included on the reverse. Notable rookies in the set beyond the future stars mentioned included Will Clark, Sandy Alomar Jr., and David Cone.

Checklist and Notes:

1-25 – Pitchers (John Candelaria #1, Nolan Ryan #25 in his final issued card)

26-50 – Catchers (Gary Carter #27, Alan Trammell #41 played some catcher in 1986)

51-75 – First Basemen (Keith Hernandez #52, Don Mattingly #56)

76-100 – Second Basemen (Ryne Sandberg #78, Lou Whitaker #94)

101-125 – Third Basemen (Mike Schmidt #103, Wade Boggs #105)

126-150 – Shortstops (Cal Ripken Jr. #129, Ozzie Smith #132)

151-175 – Left Fielders (Tim Raines #151, Steve Kemp #172)

176-200 – Center Fielders (Dale Murphy #178, Robin Yount #188)

201-225 – Right Fielders (Larry Parrish #201, Dwight Evans #208)

226-250 – Designated Hitters (Dave Parker #226, Don Baylor #234)

251-275 – Managers/Coaches

276-300 – American League (Rookies/Prospects) – Included Barry Bonds #277 RC, Wally Joyner #278

301-325 – National League (Rookies/Prospects) – Included Mark McGwire #301 RC, Andy Van Slyke #302

326-350 – American League (Veteran Basebalers) – Included Rickey Henderson #327, George Brett #336

351-375 – National League (Veteran Basebalers) – Included Mike Schmidt #351, Jack Clark #367

376-399 – Error/Update/Special Subset – Included misspelled name variations like Strawberry→Strawbree, McGee→McGee

The 1986 Fleer design was both classic in its simplicity but also somewhat plain compared to the flashier Topps and Donruss sets that year. The photos showed the players in a more casual pose versus action shots. Still, the checklist featured many all-time greats and younger stars so demand has remained strong over the decades. Several of the rookie cards like Bonds and McGwire have become extremely valuable in high grades. Other key rookie gems include Sandy Alomar Jr., David Cone, and Will Clark.

For collectors of the era and players who retired after 1986, this was one of the final Fleer sets to feature legends like Nolan Ryan and Carl Yastrzemski. The backwards stats also provide an easy reference point to see numbers from 1984-1985. Condition is always key when collecting vintage Fleer which tended to have thinner/weaker cardboard stock versus rivals. In higher grades, 1986 Fleer remains a staple of collections and an important transitional set that marked both endings and exciting new beginnings for the players featured on the checklist.

While somewhat forgettable design-wise compared to flashier ’80s offerings, the 1986 Fleer baseball card set holds relevance due to iconic rookie cards, legends in their last year, and historical context of being Fleer’s third MLB license. Demand has proven steady for the complete set and especially key rookie gems which in top grades can rival or exceed similarly graded rookie cards from flagship Topps and Donruss sets of the period.

BEST JORDAN BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Michael Jordan is one of the most famous athletes of all time known primarily for his legendary basketball career with the Chicago Bulls. What many people may not realize is that Jordan was also a standout baseball player in high school and had aspirations to play professional baseball before deciding to pursue a career in the NBA. While his baseball career was relatively short-lived, Jordan’s time playing the sport led to some highly sought after baseball cards that have become very valuable collectors items over the years. Here is a closer look at some of the best and most valuable Jordan baseball cards on the market today.

1984 Fleer #57 – One of the earliest and rarest Jordan baseball cards is from his rookie season in 1984 with the Fleer brand. Only about 100 of these cards are known to exist in mint condition making it extremely scarce. The card features a young Jordan in his baseball uniform from Laney High School in Wilmington, North Carolina. Given its rarity and status as Jordan’s true rookie baseball card, mint condition versions have sold for over $100,000 at auction. Even well-worn copies in poor shape can still fetch thousands. This is considered the holy grail for any serious Jordan or baseball card collector.

1991 Stadium Club #76 – After leaving basketball to pursue a minor league baseball career in the Chicago White Sox organization in 1994, Jordan’s time in the minor leagues made him eligible for prospect cards. The 1991 Stadium Club release stands out as one of the more iconic from this period. It shows a smiling Jordan in his Birmingham Barons uniform from the Class AA Southern League. Higher grade copies have sold for $15,000-$25,000 depending on condition. This remains one of the key Jordan baseball cards for any collection.

1991 Score #469 – Another prospect card released during Jordan’s time in the minors. What makes the 1991 Score issue unique is the photo, which was taken during an actual baseball game and shows Jordan swinging at a pitch. This on-field action shot gives the card a memorable look. Near mint copies have sold for $8,000-$12,000 at auction in recent years.

1994 Score #770 – As Jordan’s lone season playing professional baseball was coming to an end in 1994, Score released one final baseball card featuring #23. It captures him in the dugout for the Barons. While not quite as iconic as some of his earlier prospect issues, it serves as the bookend to chronicle his time spent pursuing baseball. Higher grade copies typically sell for $2,000-$5,000.

1995 Upper Deck Minors #70 – After retiring from baseball in 1994, Upper Deck still wanted to commemorate Jordan’s time in the minor leagues with one final card in their 1995 Minors set. It reuses the same photo from his 1991 Stadium Club issue. While not quite as early or rare as some others, it remains a key piece for any Jordan baseball card collection. Mint condition copies have sold for $1,000-$2,000.

As his popularity and legend continued to grow after returning to the NBA, Jordan’s prospect baseball cards from the early 1990s have become some of the most valuable and sought after in the entire collecting hobby. Even relatively common issues still carry premium prices due to the association with Jordan’s name and status as one of the most iconic athletes ever. For the serious collector, finding high quality copies of his earliest rookie cards from 1984 and 1991 could require a small fortune. But assembling a complete set of Jordan’s baseball cards serves as a fascinating window into a lesser known chapter of his athletic career before he cemented his legacy in the NBA.

1981 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS OF VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1981 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most important sets in the hobby. While it lacks true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, there are a handful of cards that retain significant collector value 40 years later. The set is most noteworthy for introducing licensedMajor League Baseball players after Topps had enjoyed an exclusive license for over a decade.

Issued as the sole offering from Fleer that year in waxy packs of 10 cards each, the 1981 set includes 330 cards featuring players from both the American and National Leagues. The designs are simple yet elegant, showing each player in full color against a white background. Text is kept to a minimum with just the player’s name, team, and position included. While production techniques at the time did not allow for photo variations, the clean and uncluttered look has stood the test of time.

Several factors contribute to certain 1981 Fleer cards retaining high values. First and foremost is the star power and legendary status of the players featured. Iconic performers with long and accomplished careers will always be in high demand. Another aspect is how early in their careers the players are, with rookie and early career portrayals generating collector excitement. Beyond that, scarcity whether from low original print runs or damage over the decades also plays a major role.

With that context in mind, here are some of the most valuable 1981 Fleer Baseball cards to be on the lookout for:

Nolan Ryan (#306): As one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history with over 5,000 career strikeouts, Ryan’s cards are always prized. His 5th year Fleer is highly sought after in top grades where it can sell for over $2,000.

Robin Yount (#41): The future Hall of Famer’s 5th year card shows him as an up-and-coming star for the Brewers. High grade versions fetch $1,000+.

Fernando Valenzuela (#313): El Toro’s rookie card caught the baseball world by storm in 1981 as the Dodgers’ phenom took the NL by storm. A PSA 10 could sell for $3,000 due to his popularity and the card’s scarcity in pristine condition after 40 years.

Ozzie Smith (#269): Still considered one of the finest defensive shortstops ever, The Wizard’s sophomore Fleer is valued near $1,000 for top quality copies.

Steve Carlton (#99): Already a star but in the midst of his best seasons, Lefty’s card is highly collectible in the $400-500 range.

Dave Kingman (#210): Big Ding Dong’s prodigious home run power made him a fan favorite that still resonates today. High grades can get $300-400.

Rich Gossage (#282): As one of the most intimidating closers in MLB history, Goose’s first Fleer has value at $200-300 depending on condition.

George Brett (#145): Already a consistent star but before his peak years, top examples of Brett’s rookie Fleer will sell for $300-350.

Gary Carter (#143): The Expos’ catcher was rising to stardom and his card endures in value at $150-250 for top condition versions.

Bob Horner (#178): Considered one of the best pure hitting prospects ever, Horner’s rookie card is prized at $150-200 despite his career being cut short by injuries.

While far from the most valuable set ever issued, collectibles from the pioneering 1981 Fleer Baseball release maintain interest due to the talent, history, and design aesthetics involved. For avid collectors, finding higher grade examples of the cards profiled can make for worthwhile long-term investments. After 40 years the set continues gaining admirers for its impressive debut during a transitional period in the industry.

HIGHEST VALUED BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been around for over 130 years and many of the earliest and rarest prints are among the most valuable collectibles in the world. The value of vintage baseball cards has skyrocketed in recent decades as nostalgia and interest in the history of the game has grown exponentially. Many of the cards considered the most valuable represent some of the game’s all-time great players from baseball’s early eras in pristine, near mint condition. Here are some of the highest valued baseball cards that have achieved record prices at auction:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – Worth well over $1 million, the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner portrait card is considered the crown jewel of baseball cards. Produced by the American Tobacco Company between 1909-1911, it is one of the sport’s most iconic cards due to Wagner famously demanding his card be pulled from production. As a result, it is exceptionally rare with only 50-200 known to exist today in varying conditions. In January 2022, a PSA 6 example sold for a record $6.6 million, making it the most valuable trading card ever sold. Its perfect 10 gem mint condition has been called the ‘Holy Grail’ and is essentially priceless if one were ever discovered.

1913 E90-1 Tobacco Bronze Billy Myers – Despite being printed decades earlier, this relatively unknown tobacco card challenges the Wagner as the most valuable at auction depending on condition. The Billy Myers card was part of a Cincinnati-based tobacco issue and remarkably only 1-2 are known to exist today. In August 2021, one graded PSA 8.5 sold for $3.12 million, shattering records. A perfect PSA 10 could potentially sell for $20 million according to industry experts given its greater rarity than even the Wagner.

1909 E121-1 Old Mill Ale School Nine Ursel Back – Printed in Canada and centering a young Connie Mack among other future major leaguers, this extremely rare tobacco card set the record for a non-sports card at $776,752 in a 2012 auction. With only 1-3 known surviving specimens, condition is crucial and the 2012 sale was for an extremely well-preserved PSA 8 copy. A perfect PSA 10 could potentially eclipse $2 million or more.

1909 T205 White Border Honus Wagner – Issued by American Tobacco in their second year and famously lacking the black Tobacco prefix to denote the company’s endorsement, the White Border Wagner is also one of the most iconic cards. Surviving examples number no more than the original T206 Black Border issue and a high quality copy sold for $3.12 million in 2016. With its history and fame, a perfect PSA 10 example could someday reach $5 million.

1916 Sporting News Babe Ruth RC – Considered the all-time most desirable rookie card, only an estimated 50 original prints of Babe Ruth’s Sporting News debut are known to exist due to the card being included as an insert in magazines rather than packs of cigarettes like most tobacco issues. A PSA 8 realized $996,000 in a 2007 sale, and a flawless PSA 10 holds legends status and might achieve $2 million or more.

1909 E90 Mayo Cut Plug Co. Honus Wagner – One of the earliest printed Wagner cards distributed in Virginia and North Carolina, the extremely rare Mayo Cut Plug Company issue is considered the rarest non-sporting card set. With only 2-5 survivors believed to exist, even low graded examples could surpass $1 million with better condition perhaps reaching $3 million. A perfect PSA 10 would likely break all records.

1909 E165 Brick Plymouth Clarence Ditmars – Featuring a young Ditmars in his Plymouth uniform, this card is among the most famous and valuable New York tobacco issues. Produced in limited numbers, recent sales of mid-grade copies have brought $275,000 to $500,000 depending on condition. Pristine high grade specimens scarce and could sell for north of $750,000.

1909 E94 Allen & Ginter Sporting Smiles Billy Hamilton – One of the most desirable early Allen & Ginter cards featuring the legendary 19th century speedster “Sliding Billy” Hamilton. Noted for its iconic smiling pose, recent increased hobby demand has lifted prices dramatically. PSA 8 level sales reaching $300,000 to $500,000 and a flawless PSA 10 could pass $1 million.

1913 E121 T201 Gold Border Joe Jackson – Part of the inaugural T201 set, only an estimated 50 of the famed “Shoeless” Joe Jackson’s Gold Border rookie survive in collectible condition today making it exceptionally rare. A 2010 sale realized $284,900 for a PSA 7 copy showing strong potential value for higher grades where a PSA 10 could draw bids well above $500,000.

1909 T206 Turkey Red Cabinets Joe Tinker – One of the most coveted of the massive 511-card T206 Turkey Red set, the legendary Chicago Cubs shortstop and member of the famous Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance double play combo fetch top prices. Recent PSA 8 sales bringing over $200,000 indicating the soaring potential for sharp higher grade specimens. A flawless PSA 10 Tinker would be worth at least $500,000.

1909 T206 Turkey Red Cabinets Eddie Plank – The legendary “Gettysburg Plowboy” Plank holds deserved fame as the winningest left-handed pitcher in baseball history when he retired. With a playing career spanning 1902 to 1917, the T206 cabinet backs holding Plank portraits are appropriately scarce and valuable, with recent PSA 9 sales exceeding $125,000 foreshadowing massive returns if a flawless PSA 10 example surfaces.

While supply and condition continue to determine final prices realized, these historically significant early baseball cards showcasing the origins of some of the game’s most legendary and iconic players continue to set new standards as impressive as their real-life athletic achievements. As nostalgia for baseball’s early decades grows while high-grade survivors become increasingly scarce, the prices paid for the finest specimens will likely push boundaries even further into the millions based on the proven passion of serious collectors. The next century-plus of collecting history is sure to bring many new chapters to these classic cards that helped launch baseball card mania to new heights.

GRADING BASEBALL CARDS NEAR ME

Leave a reply

Getting your valuable baseball card collection professionally graded can help unlock its full potential value. Third party grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC and others assign numerical grade conditions that bring standardization and trust to the marketplace. But how do you know which companies to use, what the grading process entails, and where you can get cards graded locally? This comprehensive guide will outline everything you need to know about grading baseball cards near you.

The Big Three Grading Companies

When it comes to baseball card grading, there are three major third party authentication and grading services that dominate the industry – PSA, BGS, and SGC. Each brings their own distinguishing qualities:

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is considered the gold standard, setting the market value standard since inception in 1991. They pioneered the concept of third party authentication and numerical grading scales. PSA is best for high value vintage and modern cards.

BGS (Beckett Grading Services) was founded in 1992 and uses a more subjective color-based sub-grade system along with an overall grade. BGS holders tend to command a slight premium over PSA for modern inserts and parallels.

SGC (Sportscard Garanty Company) is a newer entrant from 2000 focusing on affordability and fast turnaround times. While more affordable, SGC cards may carry a small inherent discount relative to the other top two companies. SGC is a good option for budget collectors.

All three companies use a rigorous scientific analysis process and have multilevel quality control to ensure grading consistency and protect against grader bias. Consider the various company reputation, holder design, population report data and your intended future sale needs when deciding which to use.

Grading Process Overview

Here are the basic steps that any card will go through during the grading process:

Submit your card(s) using the company’s submission form and paying the appropriate grading fee per card (usually $10-20 depending on service level).

The submission will be logged in the company’s database and the cards will enter the authentication queue.

An authenticator will thoroughly inspect the card under high powered microscopes and sophisticated digital imaging to verify it has not been tampered with, trimmed or altered. Any restoration work will be noted.

If deemed authentic, the card advances to grading where a trained grader will analyze factors like centering, corners, edges and surface for wear based on standardized grade criteria.

Numerical grades on the popular 20-point scale are applied (8 is excellent condition) along with optional Star/Gem sub grades.

6 6. Cards move through quality control review by a separate auditor.

The card is sealed in the company’s tamper evident holder with the assigned grade clearly displayed for prospective buyers to see.

The sealed holder is then shipped back to you along with a photo/digital imaging confirmation of the grade details for your records. The grading registry is also documented.

This process aims to remove bias and subjectivity so investors and collectors can have confidence placing value based on the assigned numeric grade. Overall a rigorous scientific process that typically takes 2-6 weeks depending on volume and selected service level.

Grading Near Me Options

Now that you understand the top companies and grading process, how can you get cards graded locally to avoid lengthy mail-in times? Here are some nearby options:

Show and drop services – PSA, BGS, SGC and others offer options at select card shows to hand over submissions for express or economy bulk grading off-site. Ask at your next local vintage or modern card show.

Authorized on-site graders – Some local card shops partner with grading companies and have authorized resident graders who can do instant grading of smaller bulk submissions on the spot in their store. A personal inspection before sealing.

Local authentication/grading stores – Independent stores like Philadelphia’s “Beckett Authentication” offer full grading authentication services on-consignment for all the major companies. Fast turnaround without paying corporate submission fees.

Hobby insider Facebook groups – Connected collectors offer group submission deals and ride shares for onsite/express bulk drop off and pickups of major grading sites which are often within driving distance of major metro areas.

In-person grading courses – Events hosted by the graders themselves to learn directly from experts and get on-site feedback/preliminary grades for cards before deciding to submit through normal channels.

With a bit of searching, you open up new possibilities for getting valuable cards authenticated, graded and slabbed locally to avoid shipping hassles and wait times. Talk to your local shop or check Facebook to find grading help close to home.

Final Tips Before You Submit

Above all, only grade cards you truly believe have a chance to grade well. Submitting everything risks wasting money on cards not worthy. Also consider:

Choose your grading company based on intended future sale/ highest estimated return. Not all companies are equal.

Card shows/shops often offer group submissions for bulk saving on fees and faster return.

Always be meticulous prepping the card surfaces for digital imaging and sent under perfect penny sleeve/toploader protection to survive shipping.

Know the population report data and true market prices to calculate estimated grading costs versus potential post-grade value increase.

Getting the right cards professionally graded is a key investment strategy for collectors and investors looking to unlock market value and ensure authenticity over the long run. With the right research on services, process and available options near you, it has never been easier to take advantage of third-party grading for your most prized baseball card possessions. Take the first step to increasing returns on your collection.

BASEBALL CARDS BRONX

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been an integral part of American culture since the late 19th century, capturing snapshots of players, teams, and the game itself. In New York City, few places hold as much history with baseball cards as the Bronx. From the early tobacco cards to the modern hobby industry, Bronx residents have had a long love affair with collecting and trading these small pieces of cardboard that tell the story of America’s pastime.

Some of the earliest baseball cards were included in packages of tobacco in the late 1880s by companies hoping to attract new customers. Cigarette brands like Allen & Ginter and Old Judge began including single cards or entire sets featuring professional baseball players with their tobacco products. These so-called “tobacco era” cards eventually fell out of favor around the turn of the 20th century due to concerns over marketing tobacco to children. They ignited a fad for collecting these novel trading cards that featured colorful illustrations of ballplayers.

In the early 1900s, the Bronx was still a relatively new area of New York City undergoing rapid development. Many immigrant families settled in the borough, including some who brought with them a love of the growing sport of baseball. Young Bronx residents would trade and swap the few tobacco era cards that survived from the previous decade, marveling over depictions of legendary players like Cap Anson, Pud Galvin, and Buck Ewing. Groups of boys could be found on street corners and in neighborhood candy stores, eagerly examining their collections and debating which players were the best.

The hobby went dormant for several years after tobacco companies stopped including cards in their products. The post-World War I era saw a resurgence in baseball card popularity driven by a new generation of kids with disposable income eager to collect. In 1921, the American Caramel Company began inserting sport cards, including multiple baseball players, into their caramel candy packages. Production continued through 1947, with several different series issued over the decades. Bronx newsstands, candy stores, and pharmacies stocked caramel boxes and bags, providing a new supply of cards for local youth to amass.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, baseball card collecting flourished in the Bronx as never before. Kids would ride the subway into Yankee Stadium on game days hoping to get autographs from their favorite players and add to their collections. After-school hours were spent endlessly swapping duplicates with friends, compiling complete sets, and arranging players by team or position in homemade albums. The rise of radio broadcasts also fueled interest, as fans followed their local New York teams like the Yankees, Giants, and Dodgers from afar and learned about the stars through visual baseball cards.

World War II saw production of sports cards decline dramatically due to rationing of paper products and other wartime shortages. After the war, the baseball card market changed forever with the advent of modern glossy photo cards produced by the burgeoning trading card company Topps in 1951. Their innovative design featured colorful large photos on one side and player stats on the reverse. Topps secured exclusive licenses with the major leagues, producing annual sets that became hugely popular with fans.

In the 1950s, collecting cards experienced a massive boom, especially in the Bronx. The New York Yankees dynasty of that era made players like Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford, and Yogi Berra larger-than-life figures to local kids. The neighborhood candy store became a hub of activity, with boys gathering after school to trade, discuss the latest cards, and pore over photos and stats of their heroes. Complete sets of Topps cards from the 1950s are among the most valuable in the hobby today due to the sheer numbers printed and popularity among collectors at the time.

As the decades progressed, the baseball card market only continued to grow. The 1960s saw the introduction of colorful team and player issue cards inserted in bubble gum packs. Stores in the Bronx stocked full shelves with the latest offerings from Topps, Fleer, and other manufacturers. Kids would pool their allowance money and rush out to purchase as many packs as possible, hoping for rare and valuable rookie cards or serially numbered parallels. Teenagers and adults also joined the ranks of collectors, fueling conventions, shows, and a thriving resale market for vintage cards.

In the 1970s, the population of the Bronx declined as urban flight took hold in New York City. Card collecting remained a vibrant hobby. Local shops like Sportsland in Morris Park catered to collectors of all ages, stocking unopened wax packs, complete vintage sets, and memorabilia. The rise of star players like Reggie Jackson and Thurman Munson kept interest high in the local baseball heroes. In the 1980s, the values of vintage cards started to skyrocket as the baby boom generation fueled demand for their childhood collections. Stores in the Bronx helped fuel the growing market by supplying supply to meet demand.

Today, the baseball card collecting scene in the Bronx remains active. Local card shops like Stadium Card Exchange in Riverdale offer the latest releases alongside vintage inventory at affordable prices. Shows are regularly held in the area drawing collectors from across the region. Online communities centered around New York teams allow virtual trading and discussions to take place. Most importantly, the legacy of baseball card collecting lives on as multi-generational families bond over examining their collections, sharing memories of childhood summers spent opening packs, and marveling at how far the hobby has come since its roots in the late 19th century. Few places hold as much history with baseball cards as the Bronx, where the tradition of collecting continues to this day.

1994 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

Leave a reply

The 1994 Topps baseball card set featured many star rookies who went on to have impressive Major League Baseball careers. The rookie class of 1994 produced several future Hall of Famers and many impact players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies from the 1994 Topps set.

Perhaps the most notable rookie in the 1994 Topps set was Mike Piazza. Piazza was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 62nd round of the 1988 amateur draft but did not sign. He played college ball at Miami Dade College and was drafted again in the 62nd round in 1989 by the Dodgers, this time signing. Piazza made his MLB debut in 1992 but was included in the 1994 Topps set as a rookie since he had less than 130 at-bats in 1993. Piazza went on to have a Hall of Fame career as a catcher, known for his powerful bat. He slugged 427 career home runs and had a career .308 batting average. Piazza was a 12-time All-Star and 10-time Silver Slugger award winner.

Another star catcher rookie in the 1994 Topps set was Charles Johnson. Johnson was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 1st round of the 1991 amateur draft. He debuted in the majors in 1993 and was considered a rookie by Topps standards in 1994. Johnson spent the bulk of his career with the Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers, batting .257 in over 11 seasons. He was a versatile defensive catcher known for his arm strength and was a 1-time Gold Glove winner.

On the pitching side, one of the top rookie cards in 1994 Topps was Kevin Brown. Brown was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 10th round of the 1986 amateur draft. After debuting in the majors in 1987, Brown spent parts of 3 seasons in the minors, returning to the Rangers in 1991. He established himself as a frontline starter in 1992-93 but was still rookie-eligible by Topps in 1994. Brown went on to have an All-Star caliber career with a 134-114 record and 3.28 ERA over 16 seasons, winning the NL Cy Young award in 1998 with the Florida Marlins.

One of the rising superstars in the game in 1994 was Nomar Garciaparra. Garciaparra was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 1st round of the 1994 amateur draft and called up late that season. As a rookie, he batted .264 in 54 games and showed slick fielding skills at shortstop. Garciaparra went on to have a stellar career, making the All-Star team 6 times while batting over .300 for his career with the Red Sox. He finished with a .313 average, 185 home runs, and 795 RBIs in 11 seasons. Injuries cut his career short but Garciaparra established himself as one of the game’s premier offensive shortstops.

Another future Hall of Famer who appeared as a rookie in 1994 Topps was Randy Johnson. “The Big Unit” was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the 2nd round of the 1985 amateur draft. After debuting in the majors in 1988, Johnson bounced around a bit, playing for the Expos, Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros, and New York Yankees before establishing himself as an ace. With Seattle in 1993-94, Johnson emerged as one of the top left-handed pitchers in baseball. For his career, Johnson went 303-166 with a 3.29 ERA and struck out 4,875 batters – second all-time. He won the Cy Young award 5 times and helped lead the Arizona Diamondbacks to a World Series title in 2001.

Other notable rookies from 1994 Topps include Kenny Lofton, who debuted in 1991 but played a full season in 1993 to qualify as a rookie for Topps. Lofton was a 6-time All-Star and 6-time Gold Glove winner known for his speed and defense in center field. Starting pitchers Rodrigo Lopez and Kenny Rogers also appeared as rookies, with Rogers winning 20 games three times in his career that spanned over 20 seasons. Outfielder Moises Alou debuted in 1992 but had his rookie card in 1994 Topps after playing just 33 games the prior season. Alou went on to be a 3-time All-Star with a career .303 batting average.

The 1994 Topps baseball card set featured a who’s who of future Hall of Famers and impact major leaguers. Stars like Piazza, Garciaparra, Johnson, and Brown established themselves as rookie stars, while veterans like Kenny Lofton and Charles Johnson continued strong careers. The rookie class of 1994 produced long-lasting talent at multiple positions that stood the test of time in the majors. This great vintage of rookies remains a highlight of the entire 1994 Topps set.

BASEBALL CARDS AND OTHER COLLECTABLES

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been an iconic part of American culture and fandom since the late 19th century. What started as a simple advertising promotion inserted into packages of chewing gum and cigarettes has evolved into a multi-billion dollar collectibles industry. The history of baseball cards is intertwined with the growth of professional baseball and provides a lens into how our culture has changed over generations.

The first baseball cards were produced in the late 1880s by tobacco companies as a way to promote their brands. Companies like Goodwin & Company and American Tobacco Company issued sets of small cards featuring baseball players with the company logo prominently displayed. These early cards were primarily used as advertisements and given away randomly in packs of cigarettes and tobacco products rather than sold individually. The cards did not feature any stats or biographical information on the players. They were meant solely to drive sales of the sponsoring company’s products.

In the early 1900s, candy companies like American Caramel Company and Anheuser-Busch got into the baseball card business as inserts in gum and candy products. These issues in the 1910s and 1920s are highly collectible today. In 1909, the iconic T206 series was produced, featuring 524 total cards of major and minor league players. Highlights of the T206 set include rare Honus Wagner and Eddie Plank cards that have sold for over $2 million each in recent auctions.

The modern era of baseball cards began in 1933 when Goudey Gum Company issued the first cards with player statistics and biographies on the back. This helped transform cards from mere advertisements to valued collectibles for young fans. In the post-World War 2 era, Bowman Gum and Topps Chewing Gum became the dominant issuers of annual baseball card sets. Their colorful cardboard issues from the 1950s are still highly sought after by collectors today.

In the late 1950s, Topps gained exclusive rights to produce MLB player cards which they held for decades. This monopoly allowed them to innovate card designs and try new ideas like color photographs, oddball subsets highlighting unusual stats, and even short-lived experiments with tobacco cards in 1962-63 before health concerns ended that idea. The 1960s and 1970s saw the heyday of the traditional baseball card as a mass-produced product inserted in bubble gum packs in stores across America.

As the collectibles boom took off in the 1980s, driven in part by speculators and investors, the baseball card transformed again. Companies like Fleer and Donruss challenged Topps’ exclusive license and produced competing sets that showcased new photography and cutting-edge designs. The rise of the sports card shows and memorabilia conventions in the 1980s catered to adult collectors and speculators, moving cards out of the bubble gum aisle and into the realm of serious financial investment.

In the 1990s, the overproduction of sets and loss of the traditional distribution model led to a crash in the baseball card market. Companies like Score, Studio, and Pinnacle flooded the market with often low-quality cardboard that sat unsold in warehouses. As the baseball card industry consolidated in the late 1990s, the internet also began reshaping how cards were collected, traded, and valued. Online auctions sites like eBay created a new secondary market while card shops closed their physical doors.

Today, baseball cards have evolved into a true multi-billion dollar industry. While the traditional wax pack remains popular with nostalgic collectors, high-end vintage cards, rare autograph relic cards, and unopened boxes sell at auction for hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. New technologies have also breathed fresh life into the hobby, from online grading services that authenticate and preserve condition to innovative digital and virtual card platforms.

Beyond just baseball cards, other sports have developed sizable memorabilia and collectibles industries of their own. Iconic trading card sets for football, basketball, hockey and other sports emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. Autographed jerseys, balls, pucks, helmets, bats and other game-used equipment also gained popularity as coveted collector’s items. Trading card companies expanded into multi-sport sets and novelties like oddball inserts featuring mascots, cheerleaders and even player “error” cards.

As interest grew beyond just young fans opening packs, a high-end memorabilia market catering to adult collectors took off. Industry conventions and major sports auctions hosted by companies like Heritage Auctions and SCP Auctions now sell rare vintage cards, game-used equipment, and autographed memorabilia for top dollar. Modern “hits” like serial numbered patch cards containing swatches of jerseys or autographed memorabilia cards inserted randomly in packs appeal to this segment.

The growth of sports card collecting internationally has also fueled a truly global industry. While baseball remains the dominant sport worldwide for trading cards, soccer, cricket, and other global sports have developed thriving memorabilia markets as well. Companies like Panini produce elaborate card sets for leagues around the world. The rise of social media has connected collectors globally like never before, whether sharing finds online or taking part in the 24/7 auction landscape on eBay and comparable sites.

Whether collecting for fun, investment, or fandom, trading cards and memorabilia have grown into a true pop culture phenomenon. The history of the baseball card in particular shows how a simple advertising promotion evolved through the 20th century changes in technology, consumerism, and our relationship with sports. While digital platforms and non-fungible tokens represent new frontiers, physical cards, autographs, and game-used memorabilia remain highly coveted by collectors around the world. The nostalgia and connection to players and moments in sports history ensured collectibles will remain a vibrant industry for generations to come.