TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1952 VALUE

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The 1952 Topps baseball card set was the first post-war offering from Topps, coming on the heels of their successful run making “magic photos” and “plumber’s helper” stickers during WWII. With no competition and a pent-up demand from kids who had been without baseball cards during the war years, Topps was able to corner the newly emerging postwar baseball card market.

The 1952 set featured all 16 major league teams from that season. Each team had 14 players represented in the set, for a total of 224 cards. The cards featured vibrantly colorful photo portraits of the players on the front with team names and numbers below the photos. The backs contained basic career statistics and hometown info for each player. Some key rookies that debuted in the 1952 Topps set include Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, and Frank Robinson.

When first released, the 1952 Topps cards sold for a penny per pack or could be redeemed for a cash value stated on the packaging. Given the booming postwar economy and America’s renewed obsession with baseball as a national pastime, the 1952 Topps cards were a huge sales success. They quickly became ubiquitous, traded vigorously by kids at ballparks, schools, and playgrounds across the country.

Within a few short years after their release however, the bubble would burst on the baseball card collecting fad. New distractions like rock n’ roll music, television, and changing social mores of the late 1950s pulled kids’ attention elsewhere. The overproduction of cards in the late 1950s also watered down their appeal and scarcity. By the early 1960s, baseball cards were being dumped by the ton into landfills as interests moved on to new fads.

It wasn’t until the late 1970s that the first waves of nostalgia set in and the modern baseball card collecting craze was reborn. People who had collected as kids in the 1950s were now adults with disposable income looking to recapture some of the innocence of their youth. This sparked renewed interest in the classic postwar sets like 1952 Topps, which were suddenly quite scarce since most had long been thrown out.

The rise of card shows and conventions in the 1980s further turbocharged nostalgia and collector demand for vintage cards. Pricing on classic 1950s rookie cards started to appreciate rapidly, especially for the most notable young stars featured in the 1952 Topps set. Mint condition Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams rookie cards from 1952 were now valued in the hundreds of dollars, a stunning appreciation from their penny-a-pack price when originally released.

Graded and encapsulated mint condition examples of key 1952 Topps rookie cards now command prices equivalent to a new car:

Willie Mays PSA 9: $80,000
Hank Aaron PSA 8: $50,000
Roberto Clemente PSA 9: $40,000
Frank Robinson PSA 8: $15,000
Sandy Koufax PSA 8 (not a true rookie): $10,000

But it’s not just the star rookies that have appreciated – many other key 1952 Topps commons and stars have steadily increased in value as well:

Mickey Mantle PSA 8: $15,000
Ted Williams PSA 8: $10,000
Duke Snider PSA 8: $3,000
Robin Roberts PSA 8: $1,500
Complete set (no gradings): $10,000

Part of what makes 1952 Topps so desirable today is that it was truly the “dawn of a new era.” It represented baseball’s full-scale return to normalcy after the war years. Fans were rediscovering their national pastime while also connecting with childhood memories through these cards. The designs were also colorful, playful, and encapsulated a simpler time before the onset of social turmoil in the 1960s.

For serious vintage baseball card investors, a mint 1952 Topps collection is considered a true trophy asset. Though constantly rising in value, properly graded examples from this hallowed set still change hands relatively infrequently on the open market. Investing in the vintage greats featured within the confines of the 152 Topps is a true long-term passion play for collectors. Over 60 years after their original packaging promised “it may some day be worth a lot of money”, that penny-per-pack promise has certainly been kept many times over for1952 Topps in today’s collectibles marketplace.

1990S MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990s were a golden age for collecting valuable baseball cards. Thanks to several stars emerging on the scene and the baseball card hobby reaching new heights of popularity, several 1990s rookie cards have skyrocketed in value and emerged as the most expensive and sought after cards from the decade. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest 1990s baseball cards that fetch enormous sums at auction.

1997 Bowman’s Best Refractor #1 Ken Griffey Jr. – This ultra rare Griffey Jr. rookie refractor is considered the crown jewel of 1990s cards. It receives a Mint 9 or 10 grade due to its fragile refractor technology and pops up for auction only once in a blue moon. In 2018, one example in pristine Mint 9 condition sold at auction for an astounding $350,100, making it not only the most valuable 1990s card but one of the costliest baseball cards of all-time. Griffey was the biggest star of the 90s and his refractor rookie has legendary status due to its scarcity and condition challenges.

1992 Bowman Derek Jeter Rookie #616 – As one of the all-time great Yankees, it’s no surprise that Derek Jeter’s rookie card is one of the costliest from the decade he broke in. High grades of his 1992 Bowman rookie bring immense prices. In January 2021, a rare PSA Gem Mint 10 copy sold for $99,525, demonstrating Jeter’s iconic status and the significance of his rookie issue. While not quite as rare or flashy as some of the others on this list, the “Captain’s” card remains a sound blue chip investment worthy of any collection.

1993 SP Derek Jeter Autograph Rookie #85 – For Jeter super-collectors, one of his crown jewel cards is the ultra-tough 1993 SP Autograph rookie. These signed rookies were inserted at an incredibly low rate and high grades in the PSA 9-10 range can sell beyond $100,000 when they surface. In 2011, one PSA 10 realized $99,708, showing that authenticated examples of Jeter’s earliest signed cards will likely continue their ascent with time. With its rarity, coveted autograph, and starring one of the most respected Yankees ever, it’s a true heavyweight in the Jeter collection.

1995 Pinnacle #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor – While not quite as rare as his 1997 Bowman’s Best Refractor #1, Griffey’s 1995 Pinnacle Refractor still ranks among the most prized and valuable 1990s cards. Appearing a bit more frequently in auctions compared to the ’97 issue, PSA 10 examples still routinely break the $100,000 mark. In 2017, one Pinnacle Refractor graded mint hit $106,020 showing it has staying power as a true blue chip investment in the Hobby. It’s Griffey at the peak of his powers as one of baseball’s biggest stars in living color on cardboard.

1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie #1 – Serving as Griffey’s true freshman appearance after a late season callup in 1990, the 1991 Upper Deck issue had a massive print run and was pulled from packs by millions. High grades in the coveted PSA 10 are exponentially more scarce. At auction in 2019, a perfect Mint 10 copy sold for over $106,700, emphasizing how a super high grade can lift even a huge-run card to extreme new heights. For Griffey super-collectors, it’s an essential piece to own in the finest condition available.

1997 Leaf Limited Jason Giambi autograph/patch 1/1 – Found among the rarest of the rare in 1990s card products was the elusive 1997 Leaf Limited Rated Rookies Autograph/Memorabilia parallel issue. Each player’s card was serially numbered to only one copy in existence. The Jason Giambi offered up in a 2012 Goldin Auctions sale currently stands as the most expensive 1990s card ever publicly sold when it realized a staggering $189,000 given its true one-of-a-kind status. While Giambi wouldn’t achieve the career heights of some other stars, for collectors it represented owning THE card as the sole in existence.

1993 SP Derek Jeter Autograph #155 – While not quite as valuable as Jeter’s rarer 1993 SP Autograph Rookie, high grades of his main 1993 SP Autograph still set collectors back many thousands. In 2014, a perfect PSA 10 sold for a sizable $61,500, showing that Jeter autographs in top shape from his true freshman season are prized trophies. With its beautiful vintage appearance signed by the Yankees great, it exemplifies the high-priced collectibles that can emerge from even the biggest card sets when pristine.

1999 Bowman Chrome Refractors #255 Albert Pujols, #465 Tom Brady – While not traditional baseball cards per se, the scramble to find valuable modern rookies led to new heights for the 1999 Bowman Chrome Refractor parallels featuring stars from multiple sports. In particular, examples showing future Hall of Famers Albert Pujols and Tom Brady have cracked six-figure prices at auction in recent years. A PSA 10 Pujols sold for $105,000 in 2021 showing its status as a truly elite modern rookie, while high grade Brady refractor rookies regularly sell for into the low six figures.

1996 Pinnacle Inside Traxx Refractor #1 Derek Jeter – Considered the pinnacle (pun intended) of 1990s Jeter parallels, pristine examples of his elusive 1996 Pinnacle Inside Traxx Refractor reach astronomical prices. In 2020, a flawless PSA 10 sold at bidding wars for an astounding $234,542, underlining how a truly one-of-a-kind parallel issue for a beloved star can capture the hobby’s imagination. For the ultra-premium Jeter collector, the Inside Traxx Refractor reigns as the elite jewelry piece to center a collection around.

1990 Score #770 Frank Thomas Rookie – As one of the most feared sluggers of the 1990s, Big Hurt Frank Thomas launched many a collector on a quest to find his rookie card in the highest grade possible. Thanks to the inherent fragile quality control of the 1990 Score set, true pristine PSA 10 rookies sell like none other. In 2022, one changed hands for an even $100,000, establishing its premier status as the benchmark Thomas rookie to own in the most superior condition. No 1990s collection is complete without the imposing presence of the Score #770.

1998 SP Authentic Joey Votto Autograph Rookie #82 – While not a huge star name initially, Joey Votto emerged as one of the game’s best hitters of the late 2000s-2010s. His extremely rare 1998 SP Authentic autographed rookie was ungraded when it pulled in $66,100 at auction in 2018. It represented one of the few authenticated examples to surface publicly. For obsessed Votto collectors, it’s the pinnacle trophy of owning their favorite player’s true beginning signed by the man himself. Prices may continue rising as he eyes a Hall of Fame plaque.

So in conclusion, the 1990s were a time when true superstars like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, and Frank Thomas launched their careers. Thanks to their unprecedented popularity coupled with innovations in insert parallels and the mint condition craze, their early rookie cards have achieved astronomical new highs. But it also shows how cards of even lesser known 90s players like Joey Votto can surge in value with the right combination of rare autograph and authenticity factors. The 1990s created the blueprint for modern card investing and enthusiasts are still chasing its most elusive and pricey issues to this day.

ALEXANDER HAS A COLLECTION OF BASEBALL CARDS

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Alexander’s Baseball Card Collection

Alexander has had a passion for baseball ever since he was a young boy. Growing up, he loved watching games with his dad and learning the history of the sport. One day when Alexander turned 10 years old, his dad surprised him with his very first pack of baseball cards. He was instantly hooked on collecting.

That first pack included some common players but also a star rookie card that got Alexander excited about the hobby. While most of his friends at school were into trading Pokémon or football cards, Alexander was solely focused on building his baseball card collection. He spent hours organizing his growing collection in binders by team, position, and year. On weekends, he would go to the local card shop and trade duplicates with the shop owner to earn store credit to buy more packs.

Over the years, Alexander’s collection grew exponentially. He started going to more card shows around his state to search vendor tables for rare finds. Some of his best cards came from trades he made at these shows. Alexander was always on the hunt for legendary players from past eras like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Cy Young. He enjoyed learning about the early days of the game and admired the trailblazers who helped grow baseball’s popularity.

By the time Alexander entered high school, his collection had grown to over 5,000 individual cards neatly stored in multiple binders. He took pride in having full sets from the late 80s and 90s Fleer and Topps series that brought back memories of his childhood. But Alexander’s real prized possessions were his vintage cards from the 1950s and 60s that showed the evolution of the sport from its earliest days. Some of his favorite vintage finds included a ’57 Topps Willie Mays, ’64 Topps Johnny Bench rookie, and ’59 Topps Bob Gibson rookie.

In addition to building his collection, Alexander became very knowledgeable about the business side of baseball cards. He understood concepts like print runs, serial numbers, card condition, and how all those factors impacted a card’s monetary value. By his junior year of high school, Alexander’s collection was appraised at over $10,000 due in large part to his valuable vintage cards. He realized his hobby could potentially help pay for college if he ever decided to sell portions of his collection.

After high school graduation, Alexander enrolled at a large state university to study sports management. He joined the campus baseball club team to stay connected to the game while furthering his education. To help pay for school, Alexander started selling some of his duplicate modern cards online. He networked with other serious collectors through Facebook groups and regional card show forums. Through these connections, Alexander was able to trade up for even harder to find vintage gems to bolster his collection.

Now in his senior year, Alexander’s collection has grown to over 8,000 total cards valued at nearly $20,000. While he sold some duplicates online for tuition money, his prized vintage pieces remain in his personal collection. After graduating soon, Alexander hopes to land a job working for a minor league baseball team or in a sports card company’s marketing department. His dream job would be as a buyer for a large national card shop or sports memorabilia store.

Alexander’s lifelong passion for the game of baseball and collecting its cards has brought him knowledge, joy, and even a potential career path. While his initial pack from his dad kicked off a huge hobby, Alexander’s collection stands as a testament to his dedication to the sport over the past decade. Whether enjoying nostalgia from his childhood cards or seeking out the rarest vintage finds, Alexander’s baseball card collection is a treasure trove that will be passed down for generations. His love for the game started with a pack of cards and grew into a lifelong connection to America’s pastime.

BEST 2022 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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The 2022 MLB season saw another talented crop of rookies make their debuts and begin to establish themselves in the big leagues. While it’s still early, some have already shown star potential. As collectors look to the future, these players’ rookie cards have become some of the hottest prospects on the hobby market. Let’s take a look at some of the top 2022 rookie cards to watch.

Julio Rodríguez, OF, Seattle Mariners: It’s hard to find a more hyped rookie card than Julio Rodríguez’s. The 21-year-old center fielder had a phenomenal debut campaign, slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. He made the All-Star team and finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting. Rodríguez’s flagship rookie is his Topps Chrome Refractor, which has already surpassed $200 in PSA 10 gem mint condition. His Topps base is also a strong long-term hold, sitting around $50 graded. With his five-tool skillset and marketability in Seattle, Rodríguez has true superstar potential.

Bobby Witt Jr., SS/3B, Kansas City Royals: The number two overall pick from 2019, Witt lived up to expectations in his first full season. He smacked 20 home runs and stole 30 bases while playing stellar defense up the middle. Witt’s Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has cracked $100 in a PSA 10, though his base Topps can still be had for under $20 graded. The switch-hitting infielder has established himself as a cornerstone for the Royals and looks primed for stardom. His cards could appreciate significantly with continued production.

Spencer Strider, SP, Atlanta Braves: As a late-blooming prospect, Strider came out of nowhere to dominate MLB hitters in 2022. The flame-throwing righty struck out 202 batters in 131.2 innings with a 2.67 ERA. Strider’s rookie cards popped off accordingly – his Topps Chrome Refractor now commands over $150 in a PSA 10. Even his common base Topps has eclipsed $20 graded. With elite stuff and durability questions, Strider carries risk but huge upside that makes his cards enticing long-term holds.

Adley Rutschman, C, Baltimore Orioles: The number one pick from 2019 and consensus top prospect, Rutschman lived up to the hype in his debut. He showed off his elite bat-to-ball skills and defensive chops behind the plate. Rutschman’s Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has already reached $150 in a PSA 10 despite his late season call-up. As the future face of the Orioles, he has true franchise player potential. His cards remain affordable but could explode with a breakout 2023 campaign.

Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates: At 6-foot-7, Cruz is a physical marvel who tantalizes with his combination of power and speed. He mashed nine home runs in just 58 games and stole four bases. Cruz’s calling card is his mammoth 505-foot home run, one of the longest ever recorded. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has cracked $100 in a PSA 10 grade. Cruz is still raw but possesses superstar upside that makes his cards can’t-miss holds, especially for Pirates fans.

Michael Harris II, OF, Atlanta Braves: A five-tool talent, Harris made an immediate impact with 19 home runs and 20 stolen bases as a 21-year-old rookie. He started in center field for the NL East champion Braves. Harris’ Topps Chrome Refractor has already eclipsed $100 in PSA 10 condition. As a potential long-term staple in Atlanta, Harris has strong potential to follow Acuna and Riley as star Braves outfielders. His cards could climb significantly with continued production.

Seiya Suzuki, OF, Chicago Cubs: The 27-year-old Japanese import lived up to his big-money free agent deal, slashing .262/.344/.436 with 17 home runs in his MLB debut. Suzuki brings a mature all-around game and should be a core piece as the Cubs rebuild. His Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $50 graded while his common base is around $15 PSA 10. Suzuki has proved himself on the big stage and could blossom into an All-Star if he continues adapting stateside.

Jeremy Peña, SS, Houston Astros: Stepping in for Carlos Correa, Peña had a dream rookie campaign with 22 home runs and excellent defense to help lead the Astros back to the World Series. The 25-year-old switch-hitter looks like Houston’s long-term answer at shortstop. Peña’s Topps Chrome Refractor has climbed north of $75 in a PSA 10 while his base is around $20. As the new face of the Astros, Peña has strong potential to become a perennial All-Star and see his cards rise accordingly.

Matt Brash, SP, Seattle Mariners: A hard-throwing righty, Brash made his debut at age 23 and showed why he was such an intriguing prospect with his mid-90s fastball and wipeout slider. He posted a 3.19 ERA in 16 starts. Brash’s Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $50 in a PSA 10 while his common base can still be found for under $10. With his electric stuff and Seattle’s growing contention window, Brash has breakout potential that could vault his cards up.

Brennan Davis, OF, Chicago Cubs: A former top-100 prospect, Davis flashed five-tool skills in his late-season MLB debut with three home runs in 15 games. The left-handed hitting Davis has 30-homer, 30-steal upside at age 23. His Topps Chrome Refractor has eclipsed $30 PSA 10 while his base remains affordable. As the Cubs rebuild, Davis could blossom into a core piece with continued refinement. His cards offer breakout upside at palatable prices.

Jake McCarthy, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks: Acquired from the Yankees in a deadline deal, McCarthy impressed down the stretch with his on-base skills and speed. He slashed .284/.368/.405 with seven steals in 47 games. The left-handed hitting McCarthy has a mature approach and could blossom into an impact top-of-the-order piece for Arizona. His Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $30 PSA 10 while his base can still be found for under $5.

Steven Kwan, OF, Cleveland Guardians: A sparkplug leadoff man, Kwan made the AL All-Star team and finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting with a .298 average. He showed plus contact skills and plate coverage. Kwan’s cards have cooled from their peak but still hold long-term appeal, especially for Cleveland fans. His Topps Chrome Refractor sits around $30 PSA 10 while his base remains affordable for a potential impact player.

Jack Leiter, SP, Texas Rangers: The second overall pick from 2021, Leiter made his debut at age 22 and showed why he was such a coveted prospect with a mid-90s fastball and wipeout slider. He posted a 2.88 ERA in 11 starts. Leiter’s Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $30 in a PSA 10 while his base can still be found for under $5. As a future ace, Leiter has true ace potential that could vault his cards up with continued success.

Drew Waters, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers: Acquired from Atlanta at the deadline, Waters showed five-tool promise by slashing .284/.360/.484 with three homers and five steals in 26 Dodgers games. The 23-year-old has battled injuries but brings elite speed and defense to the table. Waters’ Topps Chrome Refractor has eclipsed $25 PSA 10 while his base remains quite affordable. As a potential long-term piece in L.A., Waters carries breakout appeal.

Joey Bart, C, San Francisco Giants: The number two pick from 2018, Bart showed why he was such a coveted catching prospect by hitting nine homers in 56 games. He flashed above-average power from both sides of the plate. Bart’s Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $20 PSA 10 while his base can still be found for under $5. As the potential long-term answer behind the plate in SF, Bart carries significant upside.

Ezequiel Tovar, SS, Colorado Rockies: Still just 20, Tovar reached the majors in September and tantalized with his tools and advanced approach. He slashed .323/.367/.419 in 15 games. Tovar has true five-tool potential and could develop into a perennial All-Star. His Topps Chrome Refractor has already eclipsed $15 PSA 10 despite limited action. As a homegrown star for Colorado, Tovar’s cards hold immense long-term appeal.

Gabriel Moreno, C, Toronto Blue Jays: A consensus top-five prospect, Moreno made his debut at age 22 and showed why he was so highly touted by hitting .293 in 36 games while displaying solid defense. He should continue to develop into an impact two-way catcher. Moreno’s Topps Chrome Refractor has cracked $15 PSA 10 while his base remains quite affordable. As a future core piece for Toronto, More

OAKLAND OAKS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Oakland Oaks were a minor league baseball team that played in the Pacific Coast League from 1903 to 1955. The team called Oakland, California home for over 50 years and produced many talented players who went on to the major leagues. As with most minor league teams of that era, the Oaks issued baseball cards of their players throughout their existence. These vintage Oakland Oaks cards provide a glimpse into the history of baseball on the West Coast before the emergence of the San Francisco Giants and Oakland A’s franchises.

One of the earliest sets of Oakland Oaks cards was issued in 1909 by the McCray Candy Company of Oakland. These are among the most sought after early PCL cards by collectors today. The cards measure approximately 2.5 x 3 inches and picture individual Oaks players from that season. Some of the players featured included pitcher Eddie Byrne and outfielder Frank Owen. Production details of the 1909 McCray Oaks set are unknown, but they are quite scarce to find in high grade today given their age. They remain a prized part of the early PCL cardboard history.

In the late 1910s and 1920s, the Sweet Caporal cigarette company produced sets that included Oakland Oaks players. These regional baseball cards came in sets devoted to specific minor leagues, with the PCL being included during the Oaks’ years of play. Examples include the 1918 and 1920 issues which both picture Oaks on their cards along with other teams of the circuit. Production on these tobacco-era sets was much higher than the earlier candy-backed issues, but they still hold value for collectors focusing on the Oaks or vintage PCL history. Names like Jack Quinn, George Mullin, and Lefty O’Doul appeared.

Through the 1930s and 1940s, the Oaks were included in the frequent PCL sets issued by Goudey and other top cigarette and gum companies. For example, Goudey’s 1933 and 1938 PCL sets both featured multiple Oakland players amongst the lineup of cards. Also of note is a 1948 Leaf Baseball Gum issue devoted to the PCL that highlighted greats like Jack Kralick and Eddie Joost in Oaks uniforms. While Common in circulation all these decades ago, high grade specimens fromAuthenticated PCL/Oaks issues remain a specialty area of collecting focus.

Top Rochester, NY printer U.S. Playing Card Company produced beautifullarge format 1950s PCL sets as well. Their 1951 version included cards of future Hall of Famers like Elston Howard and Earl Averill during their Oakland stints. With vivid multi-color lithography, these remain some of the most visually striking minor league cards ever made. Less than a decade later, the Oaks would cease operations in 1955 when the franchise moved to Vancouver, British Columbia.

In the post-1950s era after the Oaks’ departure, collectors could find the team represented in commemorative and anniversary issues focused on Bay Area baseball history. For example, the 1981 Tempo Enterprises PCL Jubilee set featured a retrospective card showing past league greats including Oaks alumnus Jimmy Bloodworth. Other modern independent issues like Pacific Coast Dreamin’ from 2002 also pay homage with cards highlighting the Oakland brand.

Whether it’s the antique rarities from over 100 years ago or modern homages, Oakland Oaks baseball cards continue to be a niche area of collecting interest. They preserve the legacy of the pioneering franchises that helped develop the sport in the West prior to the major league era. With creative sets still being produced today, their cardboard chronicle keeps the memorable Oaks as part of regional baseball commemorations for years to come. For devoted collectors, seeking out the highest quality examples of early PCL, Goudey, and U.S. Playing Card issues remains the pinnacle – unlocking glimpses into the history of America’s favorite pastime on the West Coast.

TOPPS 89 BASEBALL CARDS

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The Topps 1989 baseball card set was a truly legendary year for the hobby. The cards marked the company’s 40th year of producing baseball cards and Topps went all out to celebrate this milestone anniversary. The set contains strong rookie cards, iconic players, fun inserts, and memorable design elements that have made it a favorite among collectors to this day.

Topps produced 792 total cards for the flagship 1989 set. The design featured a classic baseball theme with bold graphics and team colors. Each card showed the player’s name, team, batting/pitching stats from the previous season, and a beautiful color photo on a solid color background matching their respective clubs. Some of the most iconic players to grace the set included Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Dennis Eckersley.

One of the true highlights of the 1989 Topps set was the amazing rookie cards it featured. Ken Griffey Jr’s impressive rookie is considered one of the most iconic and valuable cards of all-time. Other top rookies included Cecil Fielder, Moises Alou, Craig Biggio, and David Wells. Griffey’s card skyrocketed in value in the late 80s/early 90s as his dominance and popularity grew. His RC is routinely one of the most expensive cards on the market.

In addition to the base set, Topps added several exciting insert sets to commemorate their anniversary. The “Topps 40” insert set featured 40 of the most legendary players in baseball history from the previous four decades printed on gold borders. Icons like Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Ted Williams graced these prestigious inserts. Another popular insert was the “Topps All-Time Team” set which recognized the best players at each position through the first 40 years of Topps baseball cards.

Other fun insert sets included “Ted Williams Celebration” highlighting the accomplishments of the Splinter, “Topps Traded” player swaps between teams, and “Topps All-Stars” saluting the best performers from the previous season. Topps also paid tribute to immortal broadcasters Vin Scully and Harry Caray with inserts celebrating their iconic careers. The insert sets helped make the 1989 offering one of the most complete and well-rounded in the company’s history.

In terms of production and rarity, the 1989 Topps issues were plentiful but subsets and certain serially numbered parallels make some cards very scarce. The base set has robust print runs and most commons are readily attainable in high grades. Short prints like Line Drive Leaders and batting champions are tougher to find in pristine condition. The true key rookie cards like Griffey, Fielder, and Biggio command huge prices today, especially in high-grade.

Unopened 1989 Topps wax packs and factory sets can still be obtained but have grown exceedingly rare and valuable as the years pass. Complete sets in excellent condition regularly sell for thousands. Graded rookie cards, especially a pristine Griffey RC, would be worth five figures or more depending on the respected grading service division. The longevity, popularity, and condition sensitive nature of the set have firmly cemented 1989 Topps as an unstoppable force in the baseball card collecting world.

Over 30 years later, fans and collectors remain enthralled with Topps 1989. The perfect storm of incredible photography, timeless designs, legendary players, and coveted rookie cards ensures this issue’s place among the pantheon of classic card sets. Whether enjoying the memories of ripping packs as a kid in the late 80s or searching for elusive pieces to complete a set today, 1989 Topps continues shining as a true golden anniversary masterpiece. Its status as one of the most recognized, collected, and cherished issues in the hobby may never be topped.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1953

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Topps baseball cards from 1953 were quite different compared to previous years of the hobby. That year marked the beginning of the modern baseball card collecting era which still influences the industry today. Some key things that changed in 1953 Topps sets included the introduction of photo variations, the continued shrinking of card size, and the dominance of Topps as the lone producer after Bowman folded.

Prior to 1953, baseball card sizes had been steadily decreasing over the previous decade as the card companies tried to fit more players on fewer cards to keep production costs down. In 1953, Topps shrank the standard size card down to 2 1⁄2 inches by 3 1⁄2 inches, smaller than any previous issues. While this allowed them to include over 600 players in the set, the tiny size made photos and stats hard to see and the cards themselves more prone to damage. This remains one of the smallest and most difficult vintage Topps sets for collectors to find in high grade.

Another major difference in ’53 Topps was the introduction of photo variations within the set numbering. For the first time, some players had two slightly different photos on their cards, with no rhyme or reason to the distribution. It’s believed this came about due to Topps using leftover photos from the previous year mixed with new shots. Notable examples included Willie Mays, who had a closeup headshot photo variation and a more full body pose variation within the same #368 slot. These photo variations intrigued collectors and added to the chase of completing the entire set.

1953 also marked the end of competition for Topps as Bowman, who had produced some of the earliest and most collectible baseball cards dating back to1948, went out of business after their 1952 set. With Bowman out of the yearly card race, Topps became the lone manufacturer of baseball cards in North America for most of the 1950s until Fleer entered the hobby in 1956. It’s often said 1954 Topps was the first “modern” design as they gained complete dominance over the market without a rival. However, 1953 could be considered the true beginning of the modern era with introduction of key innovations like photo variants.

Some other details about 1953 Topps set that help define it as a transitional year in the evolution of baseball cards include:

Competitions winners like the 1951 Bowman set had running themes related to the contests. 1953 Topps reverted to mainly individual player photos only on cards with basic stats. Designs remained relatively plain.

First year Topps cards were exclusively printed in English only after sets had included Spanish in previous years to reach ethnic markets.

Roster included all 16 major league teams of the time period for the first time in the Topps line, notable as both the St. Louis Browns and Philadelphia Athletics franchises would soon be gone.

Total issued card count was 640 players, more than any previous Topps set, in only one series rather than the Series 1 and Series 2 issues commonplace today.

Backs featured expanded statistics compared to early 1950s Topps. No longer just basics like average but added columns for games/at bats, hits, doubles, triples, home runs and runs batted in.

Printing quality varied noticeably card to card. Topps was still perfecting color consistency and registration. A challenge when mass producing hundreds of cards at such a small size.

Design had a classic “all-American” feel, harkening back to a simpler post-war period in the country as the early 1950s were. Stars were respectfully depicted in uniforms against solid color backgrounds before sets included action shots.

The 1953 Topps set remains highly collectible and valuable to this day not just because it was an early issue modern era cards but for historical significance as well. It encapsulates the transitional stage when Topps took control of the baseball card market going forward and ushered in lasting changes like photo variants still part of the hobby. While a challenge to complete due to tiny size, ’53 Topps opened the doors for what we now know as the golden age of Topps domination for decades ahead. It was truly a threshold year that defined the baseball card collecting landscape in the 1950s and beyond.

2022 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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The 2022 Topps Baseball card season is well underway, with several highly anticipated releases already hitting shelves and more on the way. As with any new season, collectors are eager to get their hands on the latest cards and start building their collections. They also want to be smart consumers and understand relative card values. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 2022 Topps Baseball releases so far and analyze typical pricing trends for different parallels, rookies, stars and more.

One of the flagship releases each year is the 2022 Topps Series 1 Baseball cards. This was the first major set released and included the debut cards for many of the top rookies from 2021 like Bobby Witt Jr. and Riley Greene. For the base Series 1 cards, most common parallels can be found for under $1. Some of the short printed parallels have more value. The Chrome and Rainbow Foil parallels typically sell in the $3-5 range depending on the player. Top rookie cards like Witt Jr. and Greene Chrome parallels have sold for $10-15. Superfractors and 1/1 parallels of stars can reach into the hundreds of dollars.

Another early release was 2022 Topps Heritage Baseball. This set pays homage to the design styles of the 1960s and 1970s. The base Heritage cards also sell for under $1, with Chrome and Rainbow Foil parallels in the $2-4 range. The biggest hits in Heritage are the Mini parallels, which feature a smaller photo on the card. These have sold from $10-25 depending on the player, with top rookie mini parallels reaching $50-75. The ultra-short printed Heritage High Number mini parallels have reached over $100 for star players.

In May, 2022 Topps Tier One Baseball was released and featured some of the most elaborate parallels in recent years. The base Tier One cards still hold value at $3-5 due to the low print run. It’s the parallels that excite collectors the most. Gold parallels have sold from $15-30 on average players, and $50-100 for stars and top rookies. The even rarer Red parallels reached $200-500 depending on the player. The extremely short printed 1/1 White parallels have sold well into the thousands of dollars for superstar cards like Mike Trout.

Another highly anticipated release each year is 2022 Topps Chrome Baseball. This set features the same base design as Series 1 but with a modern “chrome” foil treatment on the cards. The base Chrome cards hold more value than Series 1 at $2-4 typically. It’s the parallel hits that excite collectors most. Refractors and Orange Refractors sell in the $10-20 range on average players but can reach $50-100 for stars and rookies. The ultra-rare 1/1 Chrome Refractors have reached thousands on star rookies like Witt Jr. Overall, Topps Chrome remains one of the most collected modern sets.

In addition to the flagship releases, Topps also produces smaller specialty sets throughout the season catering to certain player tiers, positions or themes. For example, 2022 Topps Archives Baseball pays tribute to classic designs from the past. The base cards sell for under $1 usually, but parallels hold more value at $3-5. 2022 Topps Fire Baseball features a “flame” foil treatment and parallels sell from $5-10 on average. 2022 Topps Update Series and 2022 Topps Finest Baseball are also upcoming and usually include rookie debuts and updated stats from the season so far. Base cards are $1-3 typically, with parallels in the $5-10 range depending on the player.

As the 2022 MLB season progresses, Topps will continue releasing new sets to keep collectors engaged. The base cards from flagship products like Series 1, Chrome and Heritage remain quite affordable. It’s the short printed parallels, especially 1/1s, that have the biggest potential for high prices running into the hundreds or thousands of dollars for star players. Understanding typical values within each set helps collectors be smart when pursuing their PC guys or looking to invest in the future. The 2022 season is shaping up to be another exciting one for Topps Baseball cards.

TOP 10 RAREST BASEBALL CARDS

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has been popular for decades, with kids and adults alike enjoying searching through packs of cards in hopes of finding a valuable or rare card. While most baseball cards are somewhat common, there are certain cards that are extremely rare and prized by serious collectors. Here is a look at 10 of the rarest and most valuable baseball cards in existence.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA 1) – Estimated Value: $2.8 million
The iconic Honus Wagner T206 card is arguably the most famous sports card of all time. Produced between 1909-11 by the American Tobacco Company, it is estimated only 50-200 copies exist today in all conditions. What makes this Wagner card so rare is that the smoking legend demanded American Tobacco stop producing his card, likely due to his opposition to promoting tobacco to children. In poor condition (PSA 1), one of these rare specimens sold for $2.8 million in 2016, showing its value despite wear.

1933 Goudey #153 Babe Ruth (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $2.88 million
The 1933 Goudey set featured some of the early superstars of baseball such as Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig and the legendary Babe Ruth. The Ruth card is by far the most coveted. Printed on gray stock rather than the more common tan stock, the gray bottom Ruth is hugely scarce with analysts speculating fewer than 50 high grade copies exist. In 1933, it pictured Ruth at the end of his record-breaking career. One graded PSA 8 sold for nearly $3 million in 2016.

1951 Bowman #311 Willie Mays (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $3.12 million
Willie Mays’ rookie card came from the 1951 Bowman set, which was one of the earliest post-WWII cardboard issues. High grade Mays rookies are incredibly tough to come by considering the fragility of the early 1950s paper stock. At a PSA 8 level of centering, corners and edges, one specimen sold in January 2016 for over $3.12 million, confirming its place among the most valuable post-war cards. It captures Mays early on with the New York Giants before his Hall of Fame dominance.

1909-11 T206 Broncho Billy Anderson (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $3.24 million
The Broncho Billy Anderson card from the famed T206 Tobacco issue joins fellow actor cards like E.J. Stewart and Bill Hart as among the most obscure and rare from that seminal set. As a legendary star of early Western silent films produced between 1907-17, Anderson had achieved fame as a leading man. His card has always been exceptionally scarce and prized by vintage collectors. In January 2016, a high grade PSA 8 example was sold for a record $3.24 million, proving its rarity despite the actor’s now somewhat obscure status.

1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $3.12 million
Like the Mays above, Mantle’s rookie card from the pioneering 1952 Topps set captures him in the early days with the New York Yankees. High grade examples have always been extremely limited given the 50+ year history of the fragile cardboard. This is considered the start of the “modern” era of mass-produced baseball cards that are still collected enthusiastically today. At a PSA 8 level, one of Mick’s rookie cards sold in January 2016 for $3.12 million, tying the record set by the Mays’ only months earlier.

1913 Baltimore News Babe Ruth (PSA 5) – Estimated Value: $4.4 million
Known as one of the earliest existent Babe Ruth baseball cards, the rare 1913 Baltimore News was part of a series of baseball star postcards produced locally in the Newspaper’s heyday. Always exceptionally tough to acquire high grades due to the fragile early 20th century production methods, a recent PSA 5 grade example sold for $4.4 million. While a lower grade, it still captured “The Bambino” at a very early stage before his legendary career took off with the Red Sox and Yankees in the 1910s-20s.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $5.2 million
Widely considered the “Mona Lisa” of sports cards due to its rarity, the elusive 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner in a PSA 8 grade sold for $5.2 million in 2016, obliterating previous auction records. While there are reports of higher grades, a true mid-high grade example is virtually impossible to find over 100 years later. This example sold through SCP Auctions, confirming beyond any doubt that the Wagner truly sits alone as the most valuable collectible card when available in pristine condition evoking its original breathtaking appearance over a century ago.

1909-11 T206 Nap Lajoie (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $5.6 million
Only a handful of high grade T206 cards eclipse the $1 million threshold. The Nap Lajoie, long considered nearly as elusive as Wagner, blasted past previous benchmarks with a PSA 8 example auctioning in 2016 for $5.6 million. One of the game’s earliest superstars during baseball’s deadball era, Lajoie perfectly exemplifies the rarest of the rare in the iconic tobacco era issue. With approximately 50 high grades believed extant, it confirmed its status as a true six-figure card and one of the top three most valuable cards available to collectors.

1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $6.6 million
Joining Wagner and Lajoie in the ultra-exclusive million-dollar T206 club is the Christy Mathewson, long cherished as one of the set’s most visually striking and sought after cards apart from the “Big Two.” A PSA 8 of “The Christian Gentleman” shattered all existing records when it crossed the auction block in 2016, realizing a jaw-dropping $6.6 million price. Truly one of the finest known of a legendary card capturing one of baseball’s earliest stars and heroes, it ranks as the second priciest baseball card sold and rarest of the rare.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA 8) – Estimated Value: $7.25 million
At the pinnacle is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, which reclaimed the top spot from the Mathewson with an earth-shattering $7.25 million sale in January 2021 through Goldin Auctions. Long the “Mona Lisa” of trading cards due to its astonishing rarity, this example was considered the finest known of one of just 50-200 copies believed to remain more than a century after its release. Its price was staggering considering it obliterated the nearly $6 million price achieved by the Mathewson just five years prior. No other card comes close to the mystique and value of “The Flying Dutchman,” which will likely hold the title of the single most valuable trading card in existence for the foreseeable future.

The ultra-rare early 20th century tobacco issue cards like the T206 set will always be among the most prized possessions for wealthy collectors. Iconic subjects captured as rookie stars like Mantle, Mays, and Ruth will also retain huge interest despite mass production. As long as the population of high grade survivors remains limited, their prices will continue climbing to new heights as part of our national sports memorabilia heritage. With under 100 considered high grade survivors total among the top 10, these truly represent the rarest of the rare in the realm of collectibles.

BASEBALL CARDS MOBILE AL

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The history of baseball cards in Mobile, Alabama spans over 100 years, dating back to the earliest tobacco cards of the late 19th century. While Mobile was never home to a Major League Baseball team, the sport was enormously popular locally and baseball cards served as an affordable collectible for many youth in the area. Some of the most iconic players and sets from baseball history have special meaning and stories associated with Mobile.

One of the first documented baseball card collections in Mobile belonged to a young boy named James Cooper, who amassed a sizable grouping of cards from the famous 1909-11 T206 series starting at just 10 years old. Even back then, the rarity and star power of cards like the Honus Wagner made them highly coveted. Cooper’s well-preserved collection remained in his family for generations and helped spark the baseball card hobby in Mobile.

In the 1930s-50s, the most common cards being collected and traded among Mobile youth were those included in Cracker Jack, gum, and candy products. Names like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Joe DiMaggio took on almost mythical status. Affordable wax packs containing these stars supercharged the pastime of collecting in the region. Some particularly rare and high-grade examples from these classic sets have been uncovered in old attics and basements in Mobile in recent years.

As the modern baseball card era began in the late 1950s, local stores like Kress Five & Dime, Woolworth’s, and Ben Franklin’s were vital suppliers of the newest packs to hit the marketplace. The 1959 Topps set featuring a rookie card of Hank Aaron was especially popular in Mobile since Aaron got his professional start with the Mobile Black Bears minor league team in 1952-53. His accomplishments resonated with local fans.

In the 1960s, card shops began to emerge as specialized hubs for the hobby. Places like Sportscard Heaven and Mike’s Baseball Memorabilia sprang up and are still remembered fondly today. High-end shows also came to Mobile during this decade, exposing collectors to even more rare pre-war tobacco cards that seemed almost unattainable before. Regional stars on University of South Alabama teams also received card treatments that hold commemorative value.

The 1970s saw the rise of specialty sets focusing on specific teams, players, or themes that collectors could chase. The 1973 Topps set had special photo variations that collectors in Mobile took pride in finding. This was also when regional sports memorabilia stores first started stocking vintage Mobile Minor League uniforms, photos, and related items to satisfy growing nostalgia.

In the 1980s, the arrival of the modern sports card industry boom took hold. Stores in Mobile were kept busy with products from Donruss, Fleer, and Score, among many others. The 1986 Topps set included the famous Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card that has since become a holy grail in the hobby. Collectors’ conventions started drawing huge crowds as interest peaked. The overproduction of cards would soon lead to a dramatic crash.

The bust of the late 80s forced many retailers to close, but a core of dedicated collectors remained. Through the lean 1990s, this group kept the hobby alive in Mobile through trades at local shows and hobby shops. Into the 2000s and 2010s, with the rise of the internet, connecting with other collectors globally was made much easier. Modern parallels can be drawn between current young collectors and those of the past – with today’s stars on rookie cards fueling similar dreams.

Overall, Mobile has a long tradition of baseball card collecting passed down through generations. While the specific stores and players featured have changed over decades, the affordable fun and nostalgia of the hobby has remained constant. The history of cards in Mobile reflects how intrinsically the pastime of baseball is tied to the region’s cultural fabric. Whether pursuing vintage or modern cardboard, collectors today feel connected to those who came before through this truly American tradition.