PLAYERS TO LOOK FOR IN BASEBALL CARDS

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For baseball card collectors and investors, it’s important to know which current and retired players have the potential to generate serious value in the future. While cards of superstars like Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw will always hold value, the biggest long-term gains come from identifying players early in their careers who show signs they could someday become legends of the game. Scouring recent and vintage baseball cards for hidden gems takes research, but can pay off immensely for those who do their homework.

When looking through new sets, pay close attention to top rookie cards for players demonstrating elite skills who seem likely to sustain long careers at the highest levels of MLB. Cards issued in a player’s true rookie season while still with their initial team offer the most stability as investments. Some names that have appeared on many experts’ lists of rookie cards worth targeting in recent years include Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., Wander Franco, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Gleyber Torres. While stardom is never guaranteed, these players entered the league with potential franchise cornerstone talent.

Beyond rookies, focus on positional superstars still in their primes or just hitting them. When investing in current stars, it’s wise to buy cards from season(s) when they’ve put up MVP caliber numbers and remain age 27 or younger. Examples could be cards from seasons when players like Mookie Betts, Fernando Tatis Jr., Shohei Ohtani, and Juan Soto have broken out. As long as health allows, ceiling remains high on sustaining elite production into their 30s. Demand will remain for cards chronicling peak seasons from modern day greats.

Another category with big profit potential is All-Star and award winners in mid-20s. As they enter primes, cards from seasons where players like Aaron Judge, Jose Ramirez, Michael Conforto, and Yordan Alvarez made their first All-Star games or won Silver Sluggers have seen some of sharpest recent gains. Upside remains to cement superstar statuses and further increase value as honors and accolades accumulate in later career.

When exploring retired greats, focus on Rookie Cards or early career parallels/short prints of players before widespread recognition of how special their careers would become. Examples include cards of Tom Seaver from the late 1960s, Nolan Ryan in the early 70s, Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs in the early 80s, or Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas from the late 80s. Finding graded examples in high grades from before mainstream hype drives the highest prices.

Similarly, seek out the earliest Topps, Fleer, or Donruss cards capturing milestone seasons from legends. Examples include cards from seasons when players like Hank Aaron, Reggie Jackson, Rod Carew, or Mike Piazza broke major records or accomplished career-defining feats. Demand remains intense for artifacts chronicling the most impressive stats from the sport’s living legends in action during prime years.

Lastly, cards of players whose careers fell just shy of superstardom can offer upside. Examples include guys like Bobby Abreu, Andruw Jones, Jason Giambi, and Jim Edmonds who posted huge numbers for years but lacked longevity or postseason success of peers. As nostalgia grows, so does collector interest in their best seasons from the late 1990s/early 2000s. Upside exists for rediscovery boosting their reputations among fans.

While stars will always have draw, uncovering future Hall of Famers before consensus grows on their greatness offers the most lucrative niche in the collectibles market. With diligent research on stats, scouting reports, and under-the-radar accomplishments, opportunities exist to snag top prospects and rising talents primed to make their marks on baseball history. Applying these strategies positions investors and collectors to profit handsomely when cards appreciate along with players’ legacies.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1909 T206 SET

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The 1909 T206 baseball card set is one of the most coveted and valuable sets in the history of sports card collecting. Issued by the American Tobacco Company between 1909-1911 as promotional inserts found in cigarette packs and tobacco tins, the T206 set featured images of baseball players from that era. With over 500 different cards to collect across the three series, finding a complete ungraded T206 set in pristine condition would be worth millions of dollars based on current market prices.

The rarity and condition of each individual T206 card plays a huge role in its value. With so many factors involved like centering, corners, edges and surface quality, professional grading is essential for an accurate price assessment. The two leading third party authentication and grading services, PSA and BGS, provide grading on a 1-10 scale to determine a card’s condition and preserve its integrity for future buyers and sellers.

Some of the most expensive and iconic cards in the set include legendary players like Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, Ty Cobb and Nap Lajoie. In pristine mint condition graded PSA NM-MT 8 or higher, these rare “big four” cards can sell for well over $1 million each. Even in lower grades of good-very good (PSA 5-7), they still command six figure prices.

A PSA EX-MT 5 Honus Wagner from 1909 just sold at auction in January 2021 for $1.32 million, setting a new record. Only around 60 genuine examples of this elusive card are known to exist. The last century has seen the Wagner become the crown jewel of the set and one of the most valuable collectibles in the world.

Other highly valuable cards include a PSA 8 Mickey Welch ($237,000), PSA 8 Eddie Plank ($162,000), PSA 6 Nap Lajoie ($117,000) and PSA 6 Sherry Magee ($110,000). These players were among the game’s biggest stars at that time and their rarity has driven prices up significantly over the decades.

Even more common but still rare cards can fetch five figures depending on condition. A PSA 5 Mordecai Brown is currently worth around $40,000. In lower grades of good or very good like a PSA 3, cards of star pitchers like Brown, Ed Walsh and Addie Joss will sell for $5,000-$15,000 each.

For the true baseball enthusiast, building a complete set in lower grades is a more attainable goal compared to chasing gem mint examples. A full run set in good-very good condition could be acquired for $100,000-$250,000 depending on the overall quality and signatures/autographs included. This is a small fraction of what a pristine set would cost but still provides the satisfaction of owning over 500 historic tobacco era cards.

The T206 set saw a huge spike in popularity and prices during the collector boom of the late 1980s through the 1990s. This is when the modern sports card investment craze began and interest in vintage memorabilia started to rise significantly. Before then, complete sets and individual high-grade examples could be purchased for much less than their current value.

Grading and preservation has played a key role in maintaining and increasing T206 prices over time. Early on, many of these fragile 100+ year old cards were lost or damaged through normal circulation and play. By professionally grading cards, it helps ensure their condition is captured and protected for future generations of collectors. This gives buyers more confidence in the integrity of what they are purchasing.

When considering an investment in a T206 card or high-end set, it’s important to do thorough market research and use a trusted expert dealer. The prices mentioned above are based on current auction records and industry guidelines, but individual circumstances can impact value. Provenance, autographs/signatures and defects also factor into appraisal. Overall though, the 1909-11 T206 set remains one of the most historically important and financially lucrative sets for dedicated baseball memorabilia collectors and investors. With rarities like the Honus Wagner continuing to break records, the future remains bright for this beloved tobacco era issue.

MOST VALUABLE 1992 CLASSIC BEST BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 baseball card season was arguably one of the most memorable in the modern era. While production levels began leveling off from the peak of the late 1980s bubble, quality rookie cards and highly sought after veterans made the 1992 set a collector’s dream. As the hobby transitioned into the 90s, cards from the ’92 offerings have stood the test of time and remain highly valuable to this day for good reason. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1992 classic best baseball cards still coveted by collectors nearly 30 years later.

Ken Griffey Jr. – The Kid was already well on his way to superstardom by 1992 in just his third MLB season. But his upper deck rookie card that year is still one of the cleanest and most aesthetically pleasing designs ever. With its brilliant photography capturing Griffey’s effortless swing, the card ranks as one of the true iconic rookie cards of the modern era. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples now command prices well above $1000 with some reaching into the $2000-3000 range for the crème de la crème.

Frank Thomas – Like Griffey, Thomas also had an exceptionally player rookie card in 1992 that has endured. Known as The Big Hurt, Thomas was coming off back-to-back top 6 MVP finishes in 1991-1992. His rookie card features great action photography and remains one of the most visually appealing from the set. High-grade PSA 10 copies can sell for $700-1000.

Derek Jeter – Some argue Jeter’s true rookie card came the following year in 1993 Leaf. But his steroid-era debut in 1992 Topps is still a hugely popular card to this day. As one of the most accomplished and respected players of his generation, any Jeter rookie holds value. Pristine PSA 10 examples have cracked the $500-600 price range in recent years.

Chipper Jones – Arguably the biggest star of the Atlanta Braves dynasty, and likely a future first-ballot Hall of Famer. Jones’ 1992 rookie card is iconic for Braves fans and demonstrates his sweet left-handed swing. Even after several reprint runs over the years, high-grade original copies in PSA 10 still command around $300-400 due to Jones’ legendary career.

Jim Abbott – The 1992 Upper Deck card of this one-handed pitching phenomenon remains hugely popular to this day. Abbott’s story of perseverance and success against all odds playing professionally without his left hand make his rookie one of the most memorable from the year. Top-rated PSA 10’s hold value in the $150-250 range.

Tom Glavine – Another legendary Brave, Glavine’s amazing 22 year career in which he won 305 games made his 1992 rookie highly desired. While some other early 90s Glavine’s may be more valuable, his basic issue Topps card is foundational for any Braves PC and yields $50-100 in PSA 10 condition.

Barry Bonds – His 1992 Topps Traded and Bowman rookie cards are iconic artifacts from the peak of Bonds’ otherworldly abilities before steroids allegations. even ungraded, these historic pieces of cardboard can attain $75-150 given Bonds’ all-time great statistical achievements.

Jeff Bagwell – Bagwell was a Rookie of the Year and four-time MVP finalist by 1992. His rookie cards are some of the most undervalued from the great Astros teams of the 90s. Pristine PSA 10 examples can be acquired for $60-100, making them fairly affordable Hall of Fame investments.

Tom Browning – This 1990 World Series hero with a perfect game has one of the more aesthetically unique 1992 rookie cards featuring him catching his own pitch. Condition sensitive due to its oddball design, high grades in the $60-100 range remain attainable.

Carlos Baerga – A star second baseman for playoff bound early 90s Indians clubs, Baerga’s raw talent was evident by his RoY campaign in 1992. Attractively designed rookies can be foundaround $50-75 graded mint.

There are plenty other emerging stars and key veterans from the 1992 season that hold significance. But these selections represent some of the standout rookie and early career cards that have proven to increase substantially in value given how iconic and beloved the players depicted went on to become. Nearly 30 years later, 1992 clearly produced one of the true classic baseball card sets that any collector can enjoy owning pieces of to this day.

TOPPS MINI BASEBALL CARDS 1991

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Topps mini baseball cards exploded in popularity in 1991 as collectors sought after new interesting formats beyond the traditional full size baseball card. The mini cards, standing around half the size of a standard issue card, presented Topps with an opportunity to reach new audiences and generate more revenue from the existing collector base hungry for novelty.

Measuring only about 2 x 3 inches, the mini cards were packaged in plastic bubble gum displays holding 36 cards each. There were 24 total mini card series released by Topps in 1991 featuring current major league players and prospects. While shorter printed statistics and player bios were a necessity due to the reduced physical real estate, the mini cards maintained the classic Topps design elements that collectors had come to expect. Brightly colored borders, team logo insignia, and big bold headshots brought the players to life in a pocket sized format.

Rather than reprinting the same standard rookie and star player base cards seen in the full size sets, Topps opted to include many rare variations, oddball photos, and inserts unique to the mini card format. Series like Super Star Specials and Record Breakers included cards highlighting renowned career milestones and accomplishments. Rookie Previews provided a first look at the next wave of up and coming young talent. With 1992 Olympic baseball becoming a major international spectacle, Topps even included series focused on team USA and international players to capitalize on growing interest.

Perhaps the most coveted among collectors were the photo and action variant cards breaking from the rigid poses of typical baseball cards. Series like Action Jackson, Action Attack, and Action All-Stars placed the players in the heat of the game featuring dynamic poses from batting stances to diving catches. It brought the adrenaline and energy of America’s pastime directly to the fingertips of collectors in a visually stimulating new way. Other more whimsical concepts like Circus Spectaculars and Cartoon Crazies took a lighthearted approach with caricatures and players dressed as circus performers.

As with all Topps products, maintaining accuracy while delivering surprises was a priority. Thorough research ensured that stats, career milestones, and biographical information presented on the mini cards properly reflected each player’s achievements up to the current 1991 season. Meanwhile, photograph selection aimed to not only represent the true appearance of each athlete but also tap into their distinct personalities through portrait photos showing emotion or creative action shots. Finding that delicate balance allowed Topps to both educate and entertain collectors with its mini baseball card releases.

While priced accessibly in childhood convenience store displays at only 99 cents per pack, the Topps mini baseball cards of 1991 may prove to be one of the most valuable short print investments today. With many cards featuring one of a kind photos, unique subjects, and short print runs compared to the mass produced full size equivalents, mint condition examples command high prices at auction. Advanced collectors chase complete factory sets which can cost thousands to assemble considering the scarcity of finding all 24 series intact still in their original wrappers after 30 years.

The mini baseball card fad didn’t stop with 1991 as Topps continued releasing new format sets for several years. However, 1991 stands out as arguably the most abundant and creative compilation of mini cards ever assembled. By fitting America’s favorite pastime neatly into pocket sized packets, Topps opened the door for baseball card collecting to a whole new generation and demographic. For both novice and seasoned collectors alike, the Topps mini baseball cards of 1991 remain a beloved and highly cherished chapter in the long tradition of the hobby. Their perfectly tiny portraits of baseball greatness are a true time capsule preserving the summer of ’91 for future generations to rediscover.

CUBS BASEBALL CARDS 2022

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The Chicago Cubs had an interesting 2022 season as the team continued its rebuild after trading away many star players in recent years. While the on-field results were disappointing with a 74-88 record and fourth place finish in the NL Central, there were still some notable performances that made Cubs baseball cards from 2022 a hot commodity for collectors.

One of the biggest Cubs stars who had a strong season and saw his baseball cards sell well was outfielder Ian Happ. In his sixth MLB season all with the Cubs, Happ hit a career-high 25 home runs and had 72 RBI while batting .271. He established himself as one of the top offensive players on the rebuilding Cubs and a potential long-term piece of the next competitive Cubs team. Happ’s rookie cards from 2017 gained value and collectors sought out his 2022 cards, especially autograph and memorabilia cards, as a quality investment in one of the franchise’s young cornerstone players.

Another Cubs player who had a breakout season and became a favorite of collectors was second baseman Nick Madrigal. After being traded to Chicago from the White Sox in July 2021, Madrigal finally stayed healthy for nearly the entire 2022 season after previous injury issues. He hit .290 with 2 home runs, 22 RBI, and 12 stolen bases in 109 games while showing elite bat-to-ball skills from the top of the Cubs order. Madrigal’s 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect card gained value as one of the top prospect cards from that year’s draft class. His 2022 Topps Chrome Update autograph card also became a hot new pickup as collectors bet on Madrigal cementing himself as the Cubs’ long-term solution at second base.

While the big league team struggled, the Cubs farm system produced some top prospects who saw huge jumps in their baseball card values. Shortstop Ed Howard was selected 15th overall by Chicago in the 2020 draft and had a breakout 2022 campaign by hitting .281 with 13 home runs, 65 RBI, and 20 stolen bases between High-A and Double-A. Howard’s 2021 Bowman Chrome Prospect card skyrocketed in secondary market value as he established himself as potentially the best position player in the Cubs system. Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong also had a strong first full season after being acquired in the Javy Baez trade in 2021, hitting .304 in High-A. His 2020 Bowman Chrome 1st Edition Refractor card from when he was a Mets prospect gained value with Crow-Armstrong looking like a future Cubs centerfielder.

On the pitching side, Cubs fans were excited about 2022 first round draft pick Cade Horton out of the University of Oklahoma. The right-handed starter dominated in his pro debut by posting a 1.83 ERA with 49 strikeouts in 30 innings between the Arizona Complex League and Low-A Myrtle Beach. Horton’s 2022 Bowman Chrome Prospect card became one of the hottest new Cubs cards on the market as a prized piece of the franchise’s future rotation. Fellow pitching prospect DJ Herz had a breakout season by striking out 151 batters with a 2.49 ERA in 135 innings between High-A and Double-A. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Prospect autograph card gained value with Herz establishing himself as one of the closest pitching prospects to the majors.

While the major league Cubs had their struggles in 2022, the future remains bright with a farm system that produced exciting prospects. Baseball cards from Ian Happ, Nick Madrigal, Ed Howard, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Cade Horton, and DJ Herz were some of the most sought after Cubs cards on the secondary market as collectors bet on these young players becoming cornerstones of competitive Cubs teams to come in the later 2020s. With so much young talent in the system and more high draft picks on the way, Cubs fans have plenty to look forward to even during rebuilding seasons.

1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 540

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. Produced during a period of transition as the “Wax Era” came to a close, the 561-card 1979 set showcased rising young stars and veteran greats from a game in flux. Among the most notable rookie cards found within the set was #585 featuring a young Ozzie Smith just starting his Hall of Fame career. One of the true marvels of ‘79 Topps was card #540 spotlighting Texas Rangers flamethrower Nolan Ryan.

By 1979, Nolan Ryan had already established himself as one of the greatest power pitchers in baseball history. In just his 8th big league season, Ryan was coming off a year where he led the American League with a minuscule 1.69 ERA over 240 innings. The righty also racked up a league-high 310 strikeouts, becoming the first pitcher since Walter Johnson in 1913 to fan over 300 batters. Despite toiling for a subpar Rangers club, Ryan was carving out a legendary resume at an astonishing pace. Through 1978, he had already racked up over 2,000 career strikeouts in just 8 seasons, a record pace that seemed nearly untouchable at the time.

Topps did an excellent job of showcasing Ryan’s preeminent dominance on the mound with its portrait on the 1979 #540 card. Wearing his Texas home uniform featuring the classic blue and red colors, Ryan peers intensely from the foreground. His legendary 100 MPH fastball is represented by the baseball bursting from his right hand, streaking towards the viewer. In the background, a batter desperately swings through empty air as three catchers ready themselves to handle Ryan’s blazing pitches. A swirling Texas stadium crowd adds energy and context to the action scene unfolding. The portrait perfectly captures the explosive, intimidating presence Ryan brought whenever he took the hill.

The statistics on the back of the 1979 Topps #540 are also a testament to Ryan’s greatness. In 1978, his 306 strikeouts established a new American League single season record. His 24 wins were also a career high. By 1979, Ryan had become the first pitcher ever to reach the 3,000 career strikeout plateau. At just 32 years old, he had already struck out over 100 batters in 10 consecutive seasons, a mark that may never be equaled. With a 228-163 lifetime record and glittering peripheral stats, Ryan’s place among the game’s all-time elite was firmly set in cardboard.

Just as noteworthy as the star on the front, the condition and scarcity of the 1979 Topps #540 Nolan Ryan card make it one of the true treasures of the set nearly 50 years later. As one of baseball’s most iconic and desirable players during the height of the card collecting boom, high grade Ryan cards from the 1970s are exceedingly rare to find in pristine condition today. The fragile, low print run 1979 issue has survived decades of kid’s bedrooms, attics, and basements to leave strikingly few pristine examples remaining. A BGS Gem Mint 9.5 graded version of the 1979 Topps #540 Nolan Ryan recently exchanged hands for over $20,000, a true testament to its legendary status among collectors.

For enthusiasts of 1970s baseball cards and fans of Nolan Ryan’s astounding career, the 1979 Topps #540 stands as one of the true crown jewels from the set. Perfectly capturing an iconic player’s dominance on the field through its classic artwork and historical statistics on the back, the card serves as a portal back to Ryan mowing down American League hitters during the late 1970s. Even after 43 years, it remains among the most desirable baseball cards of all-time due to its subject’s greatness and the challenge of finding high grade copies. For collectors and fans alike, the 1979 Topps #540 will always represent Nolan Ryan’s legend on the diamond in lasting cardboard form.

1990 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1990 Fleer baseball card set holds significant nostalgia and value for collectors and fans of the late 80s and early 90s baseball era. The set contains a variety of valuable and sought after rookie cards that have increased dramatically in value over the past few decades.

Released in 1990 by Fleer, the set contains 762 total cards including player cards, manager/coach cards, team cards, and checklists. Some key aspects that make the 1990 Fleer set valuable are the inclusion of popular rookie cards from stars like Barry Bonds, Roberto Alomar, Kenny Lofton, and Frank Thomas. The cardboard quality and centering/printing of 1990 Fleer cards is also considered above average for the era.

One of the most prominent rookie cards from the set is that of Barry Bonds. As one of the greatest players of all time, Bonds’ 1990 Fleer RC is highly coveted by collectors. PSA 10 graded examples of his rookie have sold for over $30,000 in recent years. Even raw, ungraded copies still fetch hundreds if not over $1000 depending on condition. The rarity and iconic status of Bonds as arguably the most famous player associated with PED usage has kept strong demand for his rookie.

Another elite talent whose 1990 Fleer RC holds great value is Frank Thomas. As a two-time AL MVP who slugged 521 career homers, “The Big Hurt’s” rookie card popularity has stayed strong over the decades. High grade PSA 10 Thomas RCs have brought in over $15,000 at auction. More commonly, raw or lower graded versions can sell from $200-$500 based on condition. Like Bonds, the Hall of Fame caliber career only adds to the historic significance collectors see in Thomas’ first card.

Roberto Alomar and Kenny Lofton also possessed Hall of Fame level skills that are reflected in strong prices for their 1990 Fleer rookie cards today. Alomar was a career .300 hitter and 10-time Gold Glover at second base who made his debut in 1990 with the Padres. PSA 10 Alomar rookies have hit $10,000, with most raw copies selling for $100-$300. Lofton was a six-time All-Star and elite defensive center fielder as well, debuting in 1990 with the Indians. PSA 10 Lofton rookies have reached $7,000, with raw ones trading hands from $50-$150 typically.

The 1990 Fleer set is further boosted by other notable stars who were early in their careers like Ryan Klesko, Jason Kendall, Darren Daulton, and Chuck Knoblauch. Even stars past their primes like Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith who appeared in the set in veteran roles add to its nostalgia and demand. The inclusion of talented but short-lived players like Steve Buechele, Jack McDowell, and Bill Pecota has also led to cult followings for their rookies.

A key factor in the value of 1980s and early 90s card sets is the cardboard quality and centering/printing factors that were an issue for some producers in that era. 1990 Fleer is widely praised for having above average production values that led to cards holding up very well over 30+ years since the set was released. This has kept higher grade specimens attainable for enthusiasts looking for quality vintage cardboard in their collections.

The 1990 Fleer set carries significance as one of the forerunners to the junk wax era boom of the late 80s/early 90s. While production numbers were considerably larger compared to 1950s/60s designs, it predates the true speculative frenzy of 1991-1992 which caused a collapse. This places 1990 Fleer in a sweet spot—after the shortage years but before overproduction issues diluted values long term for many common cards from later in the decade.

The 1990 Fleer baseball card set remains a fundamentally sound vintage investment choice for collectors more than 30 years after its original release. Headlined by the rookie cards of superstars Barry Bonds and Frank Thomas, it also features other Hall of Fame talents and noteworthy players from that era. Above average production values have kept the set holding up physically better than most other contemporaneous card releases as well. Strong demand driven by the star power and nostalgia tied to the set ensures its most valuable cards especially those of Bonds, Thomas, Alomar and Lofton continue appreciating over time.

BASEBALL CARDS MANCHESTER MO

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Baseball cards have been collected by fans for over a century, chronicling the players, teams, and history of America’s pastime. The small town of Manchester, Missouri has deep roots in the hobby through its connection to the baseball card company Topps.

Manchester is a suburb located about 30 miles west of St. Louis. In the early 1950s, the Brooklyn-based Topps Chewing Gum Company was looking to expand its operations beyond the east coast. Company executives felt that being closer to the geographic center of the country would help lower shipping costs. They chose to open a new production plant and headquarters in Manchester due to its proximity to St. Louis and major transportation routes.

Topps began manufacturing its iconic baseball cards in Manchester in 1954. At the time, the majority of cards were still produced using a labor intensive process called lithography that involved hand painting images onto stone slabs. Topps transitioned to photomechanical printing which allowed for faster, cheaper mass production. Their new facility in Manchester was set up with state-of-the-art printing equipment to handle the booming demand for baseball cards among kids across America.

In the late 1950s, Topps was producing over 500 different baseball cards sets per year in Manchester. They employed around 200 local residents to handle tasks like cutting, sorting, and packaging the cards. Topps also printed cards for other sports in Manchester like football, basketball, and hockey. The company’s success in the baseball card market during this era truly cemented it as the dominant force in sports trading cards.

Topps began holding annual baseball card conventions and memorabilia shows in Manchester in the 1970s. These gatherings drew collectors from around the country and helped fuel further interest in the hobby. Notable players often attended to sign autographs, with the 1977 event featuring appearances by legends like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Reggie Jackson. The conventions were a major source of pride for the Manchester community and highlighted its unique connection to the baseball card industry.

Through the 1980s and 1990s, Topps continued to be headquartered in Manchester while facing new competition from companies like Fleer and Upper Deck. The town became known affectionately as the “Baseball Card Capital of the World” and Pop Warner Little Scholars even named one of their youth football teams the Manchester Cardinals in honor of the connection. The local baseball card boom began to fade as the industry consolidated and production increasingly shifted overseas to cheaper markets.

In 2007, Topps made the difficult decision to close its Manchester plant after over 50 years of operations and lay off over 100 employees. While a blow to the local economy, the facility’s baseball card printing legacy had cemented Manchester’s place in hobby history. Today, the Topps Baseball Card Capital Museum operates in Manchester and contains artifacts, photographs, and an extensive collection documenting the company’s history in the town. Special events are still held to celebrate Topps’ legacy and the region’s roots in the business of America’s favorite pastime cards.

Though no longer a production hub, Manchester remains an important touchpoint for baseball card collectors and enthusiasts. Its connection to Topps in the post-World War II era helped popularize cards nationwide when interest in the hobby really took off. The memorabilia shows of the 1970s and title of “Baseball Card Capital” fostered major pride for the small Missouri town. Even after Topps’ departure, Manchester ensures its place in the story of baseball cards lives on through organizations celebrating that colorful history. The legacy of America’s favorite pastime cards will forever be intertwined with the story of this small Midwestern community.

TOP 2023 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman set is one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year as it provides the first cards featuring rookie players. While rookie cards have skyrocketed in value in recent years, predicting which players will go on to stardom is extremely difficult. Still, here are some of the top rookie cards to watch out for from the 2023 Bowman set based on players’ prospect rankings and early minor league success.

Druw Jones (CF, ATL) – As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones comes into the set with immense hype as the son of five-time All-Star Andruw Jones. Scouts rave about his combination of five-tools with elite speed, power, fielding and throwing ability. He slashed .354/.486/.578 in his pro debut and could rocket up prospect rankings in 2023. His Bowman Chrome rookie card will likely be the most coveted and valuable in the set.

Termarr Johnson (SS, ATL) – Though he was Atlanta’s fourth round pick, Johnson exploded onto the scene in 2022 by slashing .340/.419/.540 between rookie ball and Low-A. He showed elite bat speed and contact ability from both sides of the plate at just 18 years old. Johnson is already ranked among Baseball America’s top 100 prospects and his stock will only rise. If he continues developing, his rookie card will be a hot commodity.

Brooks Lee (3B, SD) – The 2021 1st rounder had a strong pro debut slashing .326/.390/.509 between rookie ball and Low-A. Lee has incredible hands and plate discipline for a player his age and regularly squares up pitches. He profiles to hit for both power and average as he matures. Lee will be one of San Diego’s highest-rated prospects entering 2023.

Elijah Green (OF, CIN) – Considered a potential No. 1 pick prior to the 2022 draft, Green fell to the Reds at 17th overall due to signability concerns. He has phenomenal raw power potential and athleticism at 6’3″ 200 lbs. Green will start his pro career at age 19 and is ranked among Cincinnati’s top prospects. If the power starts to emerge next season, his Bowman Chrome RC will gain value.

Frankie Tostado (2B, CHC) – A 20th rounder in 2021 out of high school, Tostado lit up the Arizona Complex League with a .361 average and .981 OPS in 2022. He makes consistently hard contact from the left side and has above-average speed. If Tostado continues surprising with his bat at higher levels, he could climb Chicago’s system quickly and be a sleeper prospect on the rise.

Robby Ahlstrom (SP, TEX) – Considered one of the top high school arms in the 2022 draft class, Ahlstrom was selected 23rd overall by Texas. He sits low-90s with his fastball and shows feel for a sharp slider and changeup as well. Ahlstrom brings good size at 6’4″ and has projectable stuff as he matures physically. He should move quickly and could emerge as a frontline starter if development goes as planned.

Carson Whisenhunt (SP, COL) – Whisenhunt was a huge steal for Colorado in the 3rd round of the 2020 draft and is on the fast track in their system. He sits 92-94 with his heater and pairs it with a plus slider that generates whiffs. Whisenhunt already saw Double-A action in 2022 and could debut in the majors by 2024 if he continues making quick progress. His Bowman RC is one to watch long-term.

Walter Ford (SP, LAD) – Ford missed all of 2022 due to Tommy John surgery but was considered one of the top prep arms in the 2021 draft class before falling due to injury. When healthy, he sits 91-94 with smooth arm action and potentially plus secondary pitches. The Dodgers will take it slow with Ford in his return next year, but his future potential is immense if he can stay on the mound.

Jackson Ferris (SP, TB) – A first rounder in 2022 out of high school, Ferris has strong command of four pitches including a lively 92-95 fastball. He profiles as a future workhorse with potential for three plus offerings. Ferris should move quickly in the Rays system once he signs and debuts professionally next season. With Tampa Bay’s development track record, his upside could be massive long-term.

Jordan Brown (OF, TB) – Though he was just a 13th rounder in 2021, Brown had a phenomenal pro debut by slashing .354/.436/.588 with 18 homers between rookie ball levels. He makes consistent hard contact from the left side and has sneaky raw power potential at 6’4″. Brown could climb Tampa’s ranks quickly in 2023 if he keeps impacting the ball like he did in his first season.

Jhoan Soriano (SS, ARI) – Signed for over $3 million as an international free agent in 2021, Soriano has incredible speed, range and actions at shortstop at just 17 years old. His offense is quite raw, but he showed some emerging power and contact ability in the DSL last season. If Soriano starts to make more consistent contact next year and handle higher levels defensively, his future upside is immense as a potential five-tool talent.

Geraldi Diaz (OF, OAK) – Diaz received $1.2 million as an international free agent in 2022 and there is a reason for that large bonus. He has the tools to be a true five-tool talent with impact power potential, plus speed and athleticism in center field. Most IFA prospects are quite raw, but Diaz should get Stateside time next season to show if his bat can start to catch up to his tools. His ceiling is immense if everything clicks.

Marco Luciano (SS, SF) – While no longer a true prospect rookie card, Luciano will be one of the most sought after Giants in the 2023 Bowman set. He is already one of baseball’s top 10 prospects after smashing 21 homers at High-A in 2022. With his combination of elite power and speed for a middle infielder, Luciano is a future perennial All-Star if he stays on track. Any card from his pre-professional days will remain highly coveted.

Gabriel Hughes (SP, TOR) – Though used primarily in relief since being selected 23rd overall in 2020, Hughes throws a potential plus sinker that sits 94-97 mph out of an easy, repeatable delivery. His secondary stuff is developing as well and Toronto is taking a slow approach to develop him as a starter long-term. Hughes already reached Triple-A in 2022 and could make his MLB debut sometime next season if all continues going well.

Enrique Pinales (SS, CHW) – Signed for $1.5 million in 2021, Pinales showed encouraging signs in his U.S. debut by slashing .305/.383/.472 between rookie ball levels in 2022. He has excellent speed and actions up the middle with developing pop in his compact swing from the left side. Pinales is still just 17 years old, so there is plenty of development still ahead, but his ceiling is immense if it all clicks together.

Luis Matos (CF, SF) – Though he only received a $37,500 bonus as an IFA in 2019, Matos has since proven to be an incredible find by the Giants. He has elite speed and defense in center field while also showing emerging power and contact skills at High-A in 2022. Matos is still just 20 years old, but he could debut in San Francisco as early as 2024 if his ascent continues at this pace. His pedigree as a future star will make any early Giants cards quite desirable long-term.

There are many other intriguing prospects that could emerge from the 2023 Bowman set like Cam Collier, Spencer Steer and Chase Petty. While predicting the next generation of young stars is an inexact science, those mentioned offer potentially the highest long-term value based on their current prospect profiles and production. The true gems may still be complete unknown at this point, making it part of the thrill of collecting each year’s first glimpse at the next wave of MLB talent.

1969 CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1969 Chicago Cubs baseball cards are famous among collectors for marking a transitionary period for the franchise. Coming off their previous World Series championship in 1908, the Cubs struggled throughout most of the 20th century with playoff droughts and near misses. By the late 1960s signs of promise were emerging that a new era might be dawning at Wrigley Field.

The 1969 Cubs squad finished in a surprising second place in the National League East with an 83-79 record, just 3 games back of the New York Mets. While still not good enough to reach the postseason, it represented measurable improvement from their prior seasons and fostered hopes that the Cubs were building something sustainable under manager Leo Durocher. Top young talents like Ferguson Jenkins, Glenn Beckert, and Ron Santo were entering their primes and forming the core of the lineup.

That optimism was reflected in the baseball cards issued by Topps that year. For the first time, the entire Cubs roster was included on cards rather than just select players. Minor leaguers and backups got their own cards alongside the stars. The design was also notably updated from prior years with cleaner graphics and bigger closer photos of the players. Gone were the old-fashioned rounded edges, replaced by square modern cuts that showed the Cubs wanted to leave behind their losing past.

Perhaps the most intriguing card from the set was that of Jenkins, who had just come off a Cy Young Award winning season in 1968 where he led the NL with 27 wins and 309 strikeouts. His dominance on the mound made him an early face of the Cubs rebuilding effort. But even Jenkins’ great 1968 didn’t prepare collectors for what was to come – over the next several years he would cement his status as one of baseball’s truly elite pitchers and carry the Cubs to within a game of the 1969 World Series.

Other young position players like Beckert and Sando also had exciting flashy cards that year that hinted at brght futures. Beckert was coming off a breakout 1968 where he hit .342 and established himself as an on-base machine at second base. His card depicted him crouched into his unique open stance at the plate. Sando’s showed him towering over the catcher ready to unleash on a pitch after clubbing 25 home runs in 1968.

More established veterans on the 1969 squad like Willie Smith, Don Kessinger, and Randy Hundley also received due recognition from Topps. Each had been integral cogs for the Cubs throughout the 1960s. Smith was a versatile outfielder and hitter while Kessinger anchored shortstop with his slick defense. Hundley provided pop from the catcher spot. Their longevity in Chicago made them fan favorites as the Cubs tried changing their fortunes.

The 1969 Cubs baseball cards were also a final way for collectors to remember fading stars from the past era likeBilly Williams and Adolfo Phillips before they moved on. Williams remained a productive outfielder but was nearing the end of his Cubs tenure. He blasted 27 homers in 1969 before being traded after the season. Phillips had fallen out of regular playing time but popped up for sporadic at-bats, and his card served as a nod to his contributions earlier in the 1960s.

While the 1969 season itself didn’t end in a trip to the postseason, it set the stage for greater success to follow. Within the next few years, manager Leo Durocher and the young Cubs core led by Jenkins, Beckert and Sando broke through to capture the NL East title in 1971. They pushed the powerful Pittsburgh Pirates to a fifth and final game in the NLCS before falling just short of the World Series. By the mid-1970s, Chicago was a regular October presence riding the talents developed from that late-1960s rebuilding process. The 1969 baseball cards reflected how a new day was emerging at Wrigley Field and for the long-suffering Cubs franchise. They captured a memorable transition year that planted seeds for future championships. In the collector market, those cards still resonate as some of the most iconic from the franchise’s history.