The 1956 Topps baseball card set was the third series of baseball cards produced by Topps and is considered one of the most iconic vintage issues in the hobby. With an original print run estimated between 4-6 million sets, the 1956 Topps cards are still widely available on the secondary market today through online auction sites like eBay. High grade and key rookie cards from the set still command strong prices due to their historical significance and the popularity of the players featured.
Some key details about the 1956 Topps set that collectors and eBay buyers should know include that it contains a total of 520 cards issued in wax wrappers. The set includes all 16 major league teams from that season with 33 cards dedicated to team sets. There are also cards featuring the All-Star teams from 1955 and 1956 as well as manager and umpire cards. Rosters are generally complete except for a few missing players who either retired after 1955 or debuted in 1956 after the set was produced.
Design-wise, the 1956 Topps cards have a distinctive red-centered look with a team logo at the top and player stats/career highlights on the back. The photos show the players in action shots wearing uniforms from the 1955 season. The cards have a thick, high-quality cardboard stock that has stood the test of time remarkably well considering they are now over 65 years old. This durability means high grade specimens regularly surface on eBay auctions even today.
Some of the most significant rookie cards found in the 1956 Topps set that generate strong eBay prices include Hall of Famers Don Drysdale, Roberto Clemente, and Jim Bunning. Other notable rookies like Hank Aaron and Billy Pierce also debuted in this set. Given they were among the earliest issues of these all-time great players, their 1956 Topps rookie cards are considered true gems by vintage collectors. Even in low grades, these rookies can sell for hundreds on eBay. But mint condition examples often trade for thousands or even tens of thousands.
In addition to the star rookies, other 1956 Topps singles that command top eBay prices include the Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays cards. As two of the most iconic players of the 1950s, their 1956 Topps issues are always in high demand. Another popular card is the Harvey Haddix card, which depicts the left-hander on the mound during his incredible 12-inning perfect game for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1959 against the Milwaukee Braves. The back of the card details this remarkable feat.
For collectors looking to build a complete 1956 Topps set, finding all 520 cards in higher grades can prove challenging and require a sizeable budget. On eBay, intact sets in Excellent to Mint condition have sold for $10,000 or more depending on factors like centering, corners and eye appeal. Partial or lower grade sets can still be acquired for just a few thousand dollars with patience and diligence searching eBay auctions. Shrewd collectors may also find value in assembling subsets of just the star rookies or their favorite teams’ cards.
The 1956 Topps baseball card set remains one of the most iconic issues from the early years of the hobby. Key rookie stars, action shots of all-time greats and the set’s classic design have ensured it stays a priority for vintage collectors. While individual Topps cards from 1956 can be purchased affordably with eBay browsing, acquiring a high quality complete set requires a serious financial commitment. For enthusiasts of 1950s baseball cards and the players they featured, this Topps release is truly a treasure trove that will retain its appeal for generations to come.
