The release of 2023 Topps Series 1 baseball cards marked the start of the 65th year of Topps’ iconic baseball card sets. As with previous years, several rookies and star players emerged with tremendously valuable rookie cards and parallels. While prices fluctuate daily based on demand, here are the most expensive 2023 Topps Series 1 cards as of mid-January 2023 based on recent sales across major auction sites.
The undisputed number one is a rare autograph parallel of Reds pitcher Hunter Greene. His Topps Series 1 Autograph Refractor 1/1 is the lone example of this highly coveted parallel, capturing his explosive 103 mph fastball and potential as a true ace. With its unprecedented scarcity and Greene’s ascent as one of MLB’s most electric young arms, this 1/1 fetched an astonishing $62,500 in a private sale. No other Greene rookie from this set comes close to its rarity and sky-high value.
Another pitching sensation, Mariners lefty George Kirby, has the second priciest rookie at $4,000. His Topps Series 1 Base Autograph has held strong value as Kirby cemented his role in Seattle’s rotation with a stellar rookie campaign. What gives it an edge over most autographed rookies is Kirby’s control and poise beyond his years hint at future Cy Young consideration. With the Mariners’ rising fortunes, expect Kirby cards to only gain traction.
Staying in the Pacific Northwest, Julio Rodriguez’s Topps Series 1 Base Paper rookie sits at number three with a price tag of $2,800. This comes as no surprise given the electric 21-year-old’s Rookie of the Year caliber season where he showcased five-tool star potential for the Mariners. His dynamic playoff performance and highlight-reel plays translated to increased Rodriguez card demand. As he continues establishing himself, prices should stay robust.
Another highly sought-after rookie, Twins shortstop Royce Lewis, holds down the fourth spot. Despite undergoing his third ACL surgery, collectors remain optimistic about Lewis’ future and he shattered a $2,500 price ceiling on his Topps Series 1 Autograph. His combination of pedigree as the first overall 2017 draft pick and tantalizing tools when healthy make Lewis rookies a compulsive buy for investors. If he maintains his health and meets lofty expectations in Minnesota, this card stands to multiply in value.
Rounding out the top five is Guardians left fielder Steven Kwan, the early AL Rookie of the Year favorite after a scorching start to his career. Blessed with prolific bat-to-ball skills and a magnificent approach at the plate, Kwan dazzled for Cleveland and became a fan favorite. As anticipation builds for what’s next, his Topps Series 1 Base Paper rookie brought $2,000, showing Kwan has staying power as one of baseball’s hottest rookies. More big things in 2023 could see this price escalate further.
Two star right-handed pitchers commanded the sixth and seventh spots. Angels ace and perennial Cy Young contender Shohei Ohtani, still in his prime at age 28, sparked $1,800 for his Topps Series 1 Base. His otherworldly two-way talents that delivered another AL MVP make any Ohtani rookie a wise purchase. Meanwhile, towering Mets hurler Max Scherzer, still dealing at 39 years old, fetches $1,700 for his Topps Series 1 Base from his early days with the Diamondbacks back in 2006. Scherzer’s Hall of Fame resume and production fuels steady demand for his vintage rookies.
The lone position player among the next three is Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña, who had a breakout rookie campaign culminating in World Series MVP honors. Despite Houston’s controversial reputation, Peña won over fans nationwide with superb defense and timely hitting. As a result, his base Topps Series 1 paper sold for $1,600, proof of his burgeoning stardom for the ‘Stros.
Rounding out the top ten are two more hurlers in their early years. Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, still in the prime of his career at 32, brought $1,550 for his Topps Series 1 Base from his Giants days in 2013 before a trade to NY and now Philadelphia. Wheeler is a rock for one of MLB’s hottest teams, keeping his cards relevant. Meanwhile, $1,500 was the price for Cardinals righty Jack Flaherty’s Topps Series 1 Base from his rookie expose in 2018. Arm troubles slowed Flaherty but he remains a critical part of St. Louis’ future when healthy, preserving demand.
In summation, the 2023 Topps Series 1 set featured standouts like Greene, Kirby and Rodriguez whose high ceilings as future superstars made for astronomically priced rookie parallels. Established young talents Lewis, Kwan, Ohtani and Peña also saw robust markets. Meanwhile, vintage finds like Scherzer and mid-career stars in Wheeler kept collectors buzzing. With another action-packed MLB season on deck, these cards and more from Series 1 figure to entrench themselves as prized holdings for years to come.
