1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS EBAY

Leave a reply

The 1986 Topps baseball card set is a classic and highly sought after by collectors both young and old. Originally produced and released by Topps in 1986, these 325 card checklist spans the entire league and is remembered as one of the quintessential sets of the 1980s. Today, individual 1986 Topps cards can still be found for sale on the popular online marketplace, eBay, with demand remaining strong even decades after the set first came out.

Some key things to know about the 1986 Topps baseball card set and individual cards that frequently appear for auction on eBay include:

Set Details – The 1986 Topps set included 325 total cards and had an incredibly colorful and illustrative design. Some of the standout cards included short prints, stars of the era like Wade Boggs and Roger Clemens, and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine. The cards featured individual player images with no action shots and team logos prominently displayed at the bottom.

Condition and Grading – On eBay, 1986 Topps cards can be found across all condition grades from Poor to Near Mint-Mint. Raw, ungraded cards are still quite common but an increasing number are being professionally graded by services like PSA and BGS first before being listed. Top graded rookies and star cards often pull in the biggest prices. Condition is extremely important for value so buyers must carefully inspect photos.

Hot Rookies – Perhaps the most desirable 1986 Topps rookie cards on eBay are those of Tom Glavine, David Justice, and Greg Maddux. All three went on to Hall of Fame careers. Their respective rookie cards frequently cross the $100-300+ range even in lower grades. Other Notable rookies include John Smoltz, Gary Sheffield, and Mark Grace. These lesser star rookies still attract buyers in the $25-75 range usually.

Hall of Famers – eBay listings for star cards of already enshrined Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Dennis Eckersley, and Ozzie Smith tend to fetch the higher prices outside of the top rookie cards. Expect to pay $50-200+ for PSA/BGS graded versions of their common rookie or star cards from 1986 depending on the player and grade. Ungraded copies still move for $10-50 usually.

Short Prints – The 1986 Topps set included several short printed cards that are highly sought after. This includes the Cris Carpenter SP which typically sells for $150-300+ in high grades on eBay. Other tough SP’s include Robin Yount, Dwight Gooden, and Bob Horner. Even well centered but lower graded examples can pull in $50-100+.

Buyer Beware – With the heavy interest and valuable vintage content in 1986 Topps, counterfeits have become more prevalent on eBay in recent times. Buyers must thoroughly inspect photos and ask detailed questions of sellers on high value items to avoid potentially purchasing fakes. Stick to reputable sellers with robust return policies when possible.

Supply and Demand – Even after 35+ years, 1986 Topps cards remain highly coveted and in demand thanks to their iconic design and abundance of stars from the 1980s. While the set was mass produced originally, heavy collecting over the decades has thinned the readily available supply somewhat. This steady demand combined with a finite supply keeps values buoyant on the secondary eBay marketplace.

The 1986 Topps baseball card set holds a cherished spot in the hearts of collectors for good reason. Even just basic commons from the set appeal due to the nostalgia of the design and players. For those wanting to add pieces from this classic to their collections, keep a close eye on listings for 1986 Topps cards on eBay. With a bit of savvy bidding and buying, affordable examples across all value tiers can be found with some diligent searching. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect condition, ask questions as needed, and avoid potential fake listings to get the best deals.

BASEBALL CARDS VALUE 1990s

Leave a reply

The 1990s were a transformative time for baseball cards. After losing popularity in the late 1980s, the hobby experienced a resurgence in the 90s thanks to innovative marketing, a new generation of star players, and the rise of the internet. Understanding the value of 1990s baseball cards requires examining the various forces that shaped the decade.

The early 90s saw the sport of baseball recovering from a bitter labor dispute that cancelled the 1994 World Series. To reignite fan interest, the major card companies like Topps, Fleer, and Score got more creative with their designs. Insert sets featuring parallel and refractors parallels introduced rarer card variants that appealed to collectors. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones, Nomar Garciaparra, and Derek Jeter also generated buzz. Without star players like Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr. fully established yet, most common 1990-1992 cards held modest value.

That changed starting in 1993. Griffey’s Upper Deck rookie card that year became one of the most iconic and valuable cards ever issued. Its popularity signaled collectors’ renewed enthusiasm. Upper Deck also introduced innovative technologies like holograms. Meanwhile, Score offered the groundbreaking “Diamond Kings” parallel subset. These developments got the attention of a new generation just coming of age. More kids and young adults began collecting again, flooding the market but also expanding the hobby’s customer base. By the mid-90s, the value of most 1980s cards had bottomed out while 1990s common issues were worth $1-5 per card.

The 1995-2001 period marked the peak of the modern baseball card boom. Griffey, Ripken, and players like Mark McGwire thrilled fans with epic home run races. In 1998, McGwire and Sammy Sosa broke Roger Maris’ single season home run record, captivating the country. Their epic chase was perfectly timed, coming just as the internet allowed for easier card collecting communities and greater access to historical price guides. Rookie cards of emerging talents like Pedro Martinez and Nomar Garciaparra also gained value. By the late 90s, common 1990s cards were worth $5-15 each while short prints and refractors approached $50-100.

The steroid era that fueled record-breaking home run totals also tainted the game. In the early 2000s, stars like McGwire and Barry Bonds had their accomplishments questioned due to performance-enhancing drug use. The sport’s integrity issues hurt collector confidence. Meanwhile, overproduction led to a card “bubble.” Sets featured 1,000+ cards with parallels and inserts galore. When the market corrected, common 1990s cards fell to $1-5 again by the late 2000s. But premium, well-centered copies of key rookies from dominant players maintained $50-200 values.

Today, the vintage 1990s card market has stabilized. While common issues remain inexpensive, the decade is recognized for its memorable players and innovative designs. Rookies of Hall of Famers like Griffey, Ripken, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine routinely sell for $50-300 depending on grade and parallel. Short prints like 1998 SkyBox E-X2000 Internet parallels reach $500-1,000. Autograph rookies of stars fetch $1,000-5,000. The decade also introduced valuable error and variation cards. Savvy collectors can still find bargains in the 1990s, but premium, high-grade copies of the right rookies hold significant long-term value.

The 1990s resurrected baseball card collecting thanks to new players, inserts, and the internet while also experiencing boom-and-bust cycles. Understanding the forces that shaped values allows collectors to identify which 1990s issues still make sound long-term investments versus common cards likely to remain inexpensive. For today’s collectors, the decade offers an affordable entry point to the vintage market through stars whose careers began in the 1990s and designs that pushed the hobby in new directions.

BASEBALL CARDS AND STAMPS

Leave a reply

Baseball cards and postage stamps are two iconic collectibles that have brought joy to enthusiasts for over a century. Both started as simple promotional items but grew to take on cultural significance far beyond their original purpose. Let’s take a deeper look at the history and evolution of these treasured hobby items.

The earliest known baseball cards date back to the late 1860s when cigarette and tobacco companies began including lithographed cards in their products as a marketing gimmick. These cards usually featured only a player’s name and picture with no statistics or biographical information. The tobacco era of baseball cards lasted through the early 1900s and helped spread awareness of the growing sport.

In the 1930s, the gum industry took over production and distribution of baseball cards. Companies like Goudey, Play Ball, and Leaf inserted wax-wrapped gum and a card into small cardboard packages. These cards provided more stats and facts about players which collectors found more interesting. The 1930s and 1940s are considered the golden age of vintage baseball cards as the quality and designs greatly improved.

In the post-World War 2 boom, Bowman and Topps became the dominant card manufacturers. They started the modern practice of releasing annual sets each season with every major league player featured. Topps has held the exclusive MLB license since the 1950s which allowed them to grow into the sports card powerhouse they remain today. The late 20th century saw unprecedented interest in collecting as the hobby exploded in popularity.

The first postage stamp was issued in 1840 by the penny black of Great Britain. The United States began its own postal service in 1847 with the 5 and 10 cent Benjamin Franklin stamps. Early U.S. stamps tended to feature portraits of historical figures or allegorical symbols rather than specific subjects. It wasn’t until 1893 that the first commemorative stamp was released to mark the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Throughout the early and mid-1900s, the U.S. Post Office periodically issued commemorative stamps for notable events, people, and places as a means of public outreach. The 1954 29-cent Abraham Lincoln stamp is considered the first modern commemorative to feature a living person. Sports-related stamps started emerging in the 1960s with issues honoring Jackie Robinson breaking the MLB color barrier and the 1960 Winter Olympics.

In the 1970s, stamp collecting saw a resurgence in popularity as the U.S. Postal Service greatly expanded its commemorative program. This led to the first baseball-themed stamps in 1976 celebrating the National Pastime’s 100th anniversary since the first professional game. Subsequent baseball stamp issues paid tribute to legends like Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson again in 1997, and the Baseball Hall of Fame’s induction class of 1999.

The 1990s and 2000s brought a new wave of specialty stamp collectors focused on niche topics rather than comprehensive collections. This allowed baseball and other sports to take center stage on numerous commemorative stamps. Recent baseball-related issues have spotlighted historic ballparks, MLB All-Star Games, record-breaking milestones, and even specific player achievement stamps for 3,000 hit club members.

While the formats have evolved from paper to digital, the spirit of collecting baseball cards and postage stamps lives on. Both remain treasured parts of sports history that continue to be produced today. Whether completing vintage or modern sets, enthusiasts of all ages still find the same joy in growing their collections of these classic hobby items that capture moments in time through imagery and commemoration. The enduring popularity of baseball cards and stamps is a testament to their power to connect generations through America’s favorite pastime.

BASEBALL CARDS PAWN SHOP

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century, with kids and adults alike amassing collections of their favorite players through the years. As the hobby has evolved, many collectors have accumulated duplicate cards or entire collections they no longer have room for. This is where pawn shops come in, offering collectors a convenient place to sell or trade unwanted cards.

Pawn shops have long served as a marketplace for people to sell their personal possessions for cash. Over the past few decades, as interest in vintage baseball cards has grown significantly, pawn shops have expanded their inventory to include sports memorabilia like cards. While large card shops may focus only on buying and selling cards, pawn shops offer a one-stop shop where collectors can also sell gold, electronics, musical instruments, and other items if needed.

For collectors looking to sell cards, pawn shops can be attractive because they typically pay cash up front, whereas auction sites only pay out if the card ultimately sells. Pawn shop owners are experienced in assessing condition and value of different cards to make a fair offer. Serious vintage cards may be sent to third-party grading services like PSA or BGS first to verify authenticity and condition, which can significantly boost resale value.

When selling to a pawn shop, collectors should be prepared to accept a price well below what the card may fetch on the open market. Pawn shops are a business and need to make a profit, so their offers will account for costs of grading, displaying, and ultimately reselling the item. Still, getting 50-70% of a card’s fair market value beats getting nothing if it doesn’t sell on eBay. Sellers should research recent sales of comparable cards to ensure they don’t leave money on the table.

In addition to buying collections, many pawn shops also accept baseball cards for pawn. This allows collectors to get cash quickly using their cards as collateral, with the option to redeem them later by repaying the loan plus interest. Pawning is useful in emergency situations but risks permanently losing treasured cards if unable to repay the loan in time. As with any sale, collectors should carefully consider their long-term collecting goals before pawning irreplaceable pieces of their collection.

On the resale side, pawn shops list baseball cards for sale individually or in large lots online and in their physical stores. With the rise of online marketplaces, many pawn shops have built robust eBay stores to reach collectors worldwide. Vintage rookie cards of stars like Mickey Mantle or rare unopened wax packs can sell for thousands. But the bulk of cards will sell for just a few dollars each. Still, with high volume, pawn shops are able to earn a living by monetizing collections purchased cheaply.

While pawn shops pay less than a consignment shop, their cash offers provide instant gratification which some collectors prefer over a potentially larger payout down the road. Selling to a local pawn shop also avoids hassles and fees of shipping. And collectors gain the satisfaction of knowing their cards ended up in the hands of other fans rather than being pulped. Pawn shops have become an important secondary market for vintage baseball cards, to the benefit of both sellers and buyers.

Whether liquidating part of a collection or getting some quick cash in a pinch, pawn shops offer baseball card enthusiasts a convenient alternative to online sales. With decades of experience evaluating sports memorabilia, pawn shop owners can usually provide fair cash offers on even the most valuable vintage pieces. Just as they have for generations, pawn shops continue serving communities by facilitating the transfer and enjoyment of nostalgic collectibles like baseball cards to new homes.

1990 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

Leave a reply

The 1990 Fleer baseball card release is one that many baseball card collectors from that era remember fondly. While not quite as iconic or valuable as some of the classic releases from the late 1980s like 1988 Donruss, 1989 Upper Deck, or 1989 Bowman, 1990 Fleer cards still hold a very special place in the hobby for many due to the nostalgia and memories associated with opening packs as a kid during that time period.

For those who have an unopened box of 1990 Fleer baseball cards still sealed in the original shrink wrap, they likely have a very valuable item in their possession. Let’s take a deeper look at some key details about the 1990 Fleer baseball card release and what owning an unopened box in pristine condition could mean.

First, some background details on the set itself. The 1990 Fleer release featured 336 total cards in the base set. Ranging in number from 1 to 336, the cards featured current major leaguers as well as a handful of retired legends mixed in. Some of the biggest star names included on 1990 Fleer cards were Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith. The design featured on most cards showed the player in a headshot with their team logo and uniform appearing behind them.

In terms of parallels and short prints, the 1990 Fleer set did include “Traded” variations for players who had switched teams in the previous season. These traded cards would update the player’s team affiliation. The set also had several short printed cards with underproduced serial numbers. Some of the tougher short prints to find included cards #61 Darren Daulton, #158 Dave Martinez, and #294 Tony Fernandez.

When originally released by Fleer in 1990, a wax box contained 24 packs with 11 cards per pack. This meant each sealed box straight from the manufacturer contained a total of 264 factory sealed packs. With 11 cards per pack, this equates to 2,904 total original 1990 Fleer baseball cards in a full unopened box. It’s also important to note these boxes would have featured the original Fleer hologram on the shrink wrap adding another layer of authenticity verification.

Now let’s discuss the potential value and what collectors are willing to pay for a completely sealed and untouched 1990 Fleer wax box in pristine condition over 30 years later. Because it remained sealed all these years, the cards and packs themselves have experienced no handling or wear and remain in the exact state they were when originally packaged and shipped from Fleer in 1990. This greatly enhances both the collectibility and monetary worth for serious vintage baseball card investors.

For unopened 1980s and early 90s vintage wax boxes in top-notch sealed condition, auction prices consistently reach five figures and well into the six figure range depending on the specific year, set details, and overall demand. A sealed 1990 Fleer box recently sold at auction in January 2021 through industry leader PWCC for an astonishing $42,000! With the continual appetite of wealthy collectors pursuing condition sensitive vintage memorabilia, prices are trending significantly upwards.

Some additional factors that can influence the final price achieved include the box’s overall state of freshness with bright crisp packing materials, the retailer wrapper if present, quality and centering of the hologram, lack of any creases, dents or other flaws. Having knowledgeable third party authentication and grading further enhances a vintage wax box investment asset. Top professional grading services like PSA could potentially grade a pristine 1990 Fleer box 9-10, shattering previous auction records.

For those lucky enough to have a completely sealed 1990 Fleer baseball card wax box still in their possession today, they should consider it one of the most valuable vintage baseball card items that they could possibly own. With the nostalgia and collectibility only increasing over time, sealed boxes are some of the rarest finds in the entire hobby pursued by the most advanced accumulators. Properly preserving and authenticating such an important piece of sports card history could generate an incredibly substantial profit down the road.

2002 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS VALUE LIST

Leave a reply

The 2002 Bowman baseball card set was released in April 2002 by Topps and featured prospects and rookie cards of some of baseball’s biggest stars. While not one of the flagship sets like Topps Chrome, the Bowman set is highly collectible for its focus on minor leaguers and recent draft picks. Nearly 20 years later, many of the cards in the 660-card base set have gained significant value as the players’ careers have progressed. Here is an in-depth look at some of the top cards from the 2002 Bowman baseball card set and their estimated values today:

Joe Mauer Rated Rookie (#54) – One of the most coveted cards from the 2002 Bowman set is Joe Mauer’s Rated Rookie. At the time, Mauer was seen as one of the best catching prospects in baseball as he had just been drafted #1 overall by the Minnesota Twins in 2001. He went on to have an incredible career, winning three batting titles and being named the 2009 American League MVP. In Gem Mint (GM) 10 condition, Mauer’s Rated Rookie now fetches around $300-400. Even well-centered, Near Mint (NM) 7 examples can sell for $100-150. This is one of the best long-term investments from the 2002 Bowman set.

Albert Pujols Rated Rookie (#265) – Like Mauer, Albert Pujols’ Rated Rookie has gained immense value over the past two decades as he established himself as one of the best hitters of all-time. Pujols was already having success in the minor leagues in 2002 but few could predict his legendary career. His Rated Rookie in top NM-MT 8 condition ranges from $150-250 today while a true Gem Mint copy could sell for $400-600. Even in tougher NM-7 shape its value has increased to $75-125 showing Pujols’ lasting popularity and collectibility.

Mike Trout Chrome (#166) – While he was just a highly-regarded prospect in 2012, Mike Trout went on to become perhaps the greatest player of his generation. His Chrome rookie card from Bowman stands out amongst the other paper base cards. Near Mint copies in the $50-75 range are common while a pristine GM 10 can sell for over $300. The card captured Trout before his superstardom and remains a key piece for Angels’ collections.

Clayton Kershaw Chrome (#206) – Kershaw has cemented his place as one of the best pitchers of all-time, winning three Cy Young Awards among other accolades with the Dodgers. His sharp-looking Chrome rookie clocks in around $25-40 in NM/MT condition while a true gem is $100-150. Even in rougher EX-MT 5 shape its value holds at $10-15 showing its long-term potential. Bowman was ahead of the curve in highlighting Kershaw’s talents.

Ryan Braun Chrome (#177) – While PED suspension later tainted his legacy, Braun was a star-in-the-making when his Chrome appeared in 2002 Bowman. Near Mint copies hold at $15-25 as Braun still put up impressive full career numbers. In top-grade condition it can reach $50-75. Those betting on his pre-scandal career did well preserving this card.

Andrew McCutchen Chrome (#149) – As one of the faces of the Pirates’ revival teams, McCutchen had a great career at its peak. His sleek Chrome can be found around $10-15 in NM while Gem Mint copies may reach $35-50. Still a solid long-term hold for Pittsburgh collections.

There are also some key short-print variants that have skyrocketed in value due to their rarity. The Jean Segura Blue Refractor parallel (#136) pops up for $150-250 NM and the Kyle Drabek Orange Refractor (#184) also fetches $125-200. Even mid-level prospects like Brandon Wood (#232) and Delmon Young (#133) have $10-25 appeal years later as reminders of past promise.

While not all of the prospects panned out, 2002 Bowman has proven to be a gold mine for those who invested in the set. Two decades later, the cards have grown exponentially in demand as many of these young stars became household names. For vintage card collectors, picking up key pieces from the 2002 Bowman baseball set makes for an intriguing addition and sound long-term collecting approach remembering its knack for highlighting future superstars so early in their careers. Grading and preserving the condition of these high-value rookie cards from the set takes patience but results in strong returns for dedicated collectors of the hobby.

JEWELL BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The Jewell Cigarette Company was an American tobacco manufacturer based in Kansas City, Missouri that produced chewing and smoking tobacco from 1889 until 1958. During the early decades of the 20th century, Jewell released a series of baseball cards as promotional inserts in their tobacco products. These rare and coveted Jewell cards have become highly collectible among sports memorabilia enthusiasts today.

Jewell cards are considered some of the finest and most beautifully designed baseball cards of the pre-war era. Produced between 1909-1915, each card featured a clean and elegant portrait of a major league ballplayer on the front. On the back was a short bio and stats for that season. The cards had a thick, high-quality cardboard stock and were quite large at approximately 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches. This gave Jewell cards an impressive, premium feel compared to the thinner and smaller cards being produced by other companies at the time.

Today, finding complete sets of these early 20th century Jewell baseball cards in top condition is extremely difficult. Only around 200 total Jewell cards are believed to have survived in collectible grade. The scarcity and superior craftsmanship of these cards has made high grade Jewell examples among the most valuable baseball cards that exist. Top star cards from the Jewell issues have sold at auction for over $100,000 each when graded and preserved in gem mint condition.

The earliest known Jewell issue dates to 1909 and includes 48 total cards. Some of the players featured in the 1909 set include Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, Home Run Baker, and Eddie Collins. Cobb’s iconic 1909 Jewell card in perfect condition would be worth over $150,000 alone due to his fame and the extreme rarity of the piece. The 1910 and 1911 Jewell issues each contained around 60 cards and also featured top players of that era such as Tris Speaker and Eddie Plank. From 1912-1915, Jewell put out smaller checklist sets of approximately 24 cards per year. Notable stars in the later issues include Stan Coveleski, Jim Thorpe and Dan Brouthers.

While most of the information on Jewell cards is player stats and accomplishments from that particular season, some cards provide interesting historical tidbits. For instance, the back of Rube Marquard’s 1911 Jewell card states he threw the fastest fastball ever clocked, estimated at an incredible 98 mph. Considering the crude equipment used to measure pitches in 1911, if true this would make Marquard’s heater among the fastest on record. The card for pitcher Eddie Cicotte from the 1912 issue mentions that during one stretch he threw 63 consecutive scoreless innings over 10 games.

In addition to their widespread appeal among dedicated baseball memorabilia collectors, Jewell cards hold strong cultural value due to the players and periods of early professional baseball they represent. The cards capture a key transitional stage as the national pastime was growing from a regional sport into the gigantic mainstream spectacle it became by the 1920s. Hall of Famers like Nap Lajoie, Walter Johnson and Ed Walsh are preserved in their athletic primes on Jewell issues from when they were among the first true baseball superstars.

While producing cards as tobacco inserts was a common promotional practice in the early 20th century, Jewell stands alone for the care and artistry put into their baseball card creations compared to competing brands. It’s likely no coincidence the company ceased card production at the same time the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act of 1965 was passed, restricting tobacco advertising. With no more tobacco ties required, modern collectors focus pure appreciation on the historic and aesthetic value of these seminal sports collectibles. In the rarified world of early baseball memorabilia, exquisitely preserved Jewell cards from the pioneer professional era still hold legendary status.

JOHNNY BENCH BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

Leave a reply

Johnny Bench is considered one of the greatest catchers of all time and his baseball cards are highly sought after by collectors. Born in 1947 in Oklahoma City, Bench played his entire 17-year career with the Cincinnati Reds from 1967 to 1983. During that time, he established himself as the cornerstone of the Big Red Machine dynasty that won back-to-back World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Thanks to his amazing career accomplishments and iconic status in the game, Johnny Bench baseball cards have retained significant value and are a staple in the collections of vintage card enthusiasts.

Some of Bench’s most noteworthy rookie and early career cards appeared in sets released during the late 1960s. One of his earliest and most valuable issues is the 1967 Topps card #583. Bench’s rookie card marked his debut in the major leagues during the 1967 season when he was just 20 years old. The iconic design features a classic vertical crop photo of Bench in a Reds uniform with statistics from his rookie campaign where he hit .275 with 6 home runs in 56 games. Due to the significance as his first card ever issued and the relative scarcity in high grade, the 1967 Topps Bench rookie in gem mint condition can fetch upwards of $20,000 at auction.

Another prized early Bench issue is found in the 1968 Topps set. The 1968 Topps Johnny Bench #507 card displays a horizontal action shot of the young catcher throwing to second base. While not technically a rookie card since it was Bench’s second season, the ‘68 Topps is still highly coveted given it was one of his first mainstream releases during his early career ascendancy. High quality examples in near mint to mint condition range from $300-$900 based on centering and surface quality. For collectors seeking an affordable way to add a pristine Bench to their collection, the ‘68 is often considered the most accessible choice in top-tier condition.

Bench broke out as a superstar in 1969 and his cards from that season are some of the defining issues from his playing days. Topps led the way with the 1969 Topps #520 card that features a legendary three-quarter portrait of Bench in a powder blue batting helmet. Considered one of the most iconic baseball card designs ever created, the ‘69 is a benchmark issue for any serious Johnny Bench PC. In pristine mint condition, examples can demand over $5,000. The rival ’69 Fleer set also included Bench’s first parallel card. The stark vertical photo and borderless design made the Fleer #13 simply mesmerizing for collectors. High grade versions regularly sell for $1,000 or more despite fleer’s smaller print run compared to Topps.

Entering the 1970s, Bench was already a two-time All Star and one of the faces of MLB. The 1970 Topps card #572 depicted Bench holding his catcher’s mask in front of a solid green backdrop, highlighting his emerging status as a superstar. This iconic set remains hugely popular with collectors even 50+ years later. A pristine example could sell for $2,000-$3,000. Bench was featured more prominently on the action-oriented 1970 DeLong Gum #7 card where he is shown squatting behind home plate waiting for a pitch. Well-centered versions are valued around $500. He also appeared on regional St. Louis Cardinals Topps cards in 1970 and 1971 that were exclusive to distribution in St. Louis area stores. These scarce Bench rookies are hugely valuable finds.

Throughout the 1971-1976 period, Bench continued cementing his legacy as the best offensive catcher of all time across various flagship Topps and regional issues. Highlights include the iconic 1972 Topps featuring Bench in a knee slide #574, the posed 1972 Topps National LE #35, 1973 Topps All Star card #560, and the dynamic squatting pose on the 1975 Topps #572 depicting his back-to-back MVP seasons. Bench also began appearing on colorful Kellogg’s 3D baseball cards in the early 70s along with other notable stars. Nearly all of Bench’s 70s mainstream releases have retained significant collector demand considering the unprecedented success and fame he achieved during the Big Red Machine era winning consecutive titles in 1975-1976.

By 1977 at age 30, Bench had already been a nine-time All Star, won two NL MVPs and spearheaded the Reds dynasty. Topps featured Bench in a action crouch for his 1977 card #479 depicting his late career prime. This iconic design remains a core piece for any serious Bench collector. By 1978 at age 31, Bench’s skills were beginning to decline but he still made the All Star squad. His 1978 Topps #533 shows Bench from the knees down in catching position highlighting his trademark knee protectors below his pants. A true “pinnacle” card as it represents the final season of Bench’s illustrious career. He accomplished so much on the field that nearly all major cards issued throughout his playing days retain value.

In addition to his incredible success and popularity during his 17-year MLB tenure, Bench also had a short but notable post-playing career as a manager and front office executive. After retiring in 1983, Bench pursued coaching opportunities and managed the Reds from 1988-1992. His managerial tenure produced an array of special limited edition and regional cards during that era. Bench was inducted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989 in one of the highest voting percentages of all time of recognition for his remarkable on-field abilities redefined the catcher position. Various early 90s Hall of Fame commemoration and Cincinnati Reds team issue cards were also released featuring Bench as a newly inducted immortal.

Whether it’s his legendary 1967 Topps rookie, iconic 70s flagship cards, later career gems or items paying tribute to his managerial tenure, demand remains sky high for almost any Johnny Bench baseball card. Collectors appreciate that Bench not only played for one team his whole career but achieved virtually every accolade imaginable as he defined what it meant to be the greatest offensive catcher in MLB history leading the Big Red Machine dynasty. With such a treasured place in the game’s history, pristine examples of Bench cards from every phase of his career continue to hold incredible value for dedicated collectors. His moniker “The Franchise” certainly holds true when referring to the popularity and staying power of Bench in the collecting world. As one of the standard bearers for the vintage collecting era, Johnny Bench cards are must-owns for any cabinet paying tribute to baseball’s immortals.

2023 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 2023 Bowman baseball card release is one of the most highly anticipated issues of the year. As the flagship rookie card product for MLB, Bowman provides fans the first chance to collect cards featuring the top prospects in baseball as they embark on their professional careers. While it’s still early, here is an overview of some of the top rookies and prospects in the 2023 Bowman set and their potential long term value.

One of the biggest names to watch is Druw Jones, the son of retired MLB star Andruw Jones. Druw was drafted second overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2022 MLB Draft and is considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball. As the second pick, Jones is guaranteed to have multiple prominent rookie cards in Bowman including the base paper version, parallels, and autographs. Given his elite pedigree and tools that compare to his father, Druw Jones cards could appreciate significantly if he develops into the superstar many expect. His base rookie could realistically be a $50+ card within a few years.

Another top prospect that may have the highest valued cards is Jackson Holliday, the 2021 number one overall draft pick by the Baltimore Orioles. Holliday wowed scouts with his impressive all-around abilities in his debut pro season and will be one of the most sought after rookies in 2023 Bowman. His paper rookie could sell for $30-40 out of the gate with the potential to reach $100+ in a few years. Autographs and rare parallels of Holliday will demand big premiums right away.

Two other first round picks that should have solidly valued cards are Elijah Green, selected fifth overall by the Cincinnati Reds, and Brock Porter, picked third by the Texas Rangers. Both outfielders have five-tool potential and their Bowman rookies could sell in the $15-25 range initially with room to appreciate long term. Green in particular may have extra buzz as one of the top power bats in the draft.

Beyond the first round picks, keep an eye on cards featuring shortstop Jackson Chourio, who signed with the Brewers for over $4 million as an international free agent. Chourio wasted no time adjusting to pro ball and could be a star in the making. His Bowman rookie autographs may fetch $100+ right off the bat given the excitement around his talent. Fellow 2022 draftees and top prospects Daniel Susac (Oaklies), Dylan Beavers (Twins), and Chase Petty (Reds) could also have rookie cards that start in the $15-30 range.

In terms of longshots that could pay off big, keep an eye on cards featuring Braden Webb. The righty pitcher was a third round pick by the Cardinals who touched triple digits with his fastball. Webb made a strong pro debut and his cards could appreciate greatly if he develops into a frontline starter. Other lottery ticket prospects to watch include shortstops Endy Rodriguez and Robert Moore as well as outfielder Justin Crawford. All have star caliber tools and their Bowman rookies could be steals for under $10-15 initially.

As with any rookie card release, the 2023 Bowman set carries risk but also offers opportunity for savvy collectors. While it’s impossible to predict the future, focusing on cards of the top drafted players and highest upside international prospects increases the chances of finding cards that appreciate significantly with a prospect’s success. For those willing to do the research, 2023 Bowman offers a chance to get in early on the next generation of baseball stars at reasonable prices. Only time will tell which rookie cards from the set emerge as valuable long term investments.

While values are uncertain this early, Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday and Elijah Green profile as the prospects with the highest valued 2023 Bowman rookie cards based on their draft pedigree and elite talents. Autographs and rare parallels of any top prospects will command premiums. Values on prospects like Chourio, Susac, Beavers and Webb could surge with strong pro debuts as well. For collectors who do their homework, 2023 Bowman offers opportunities to potentially find the next big stars at affordable prices. It should be one of the most exciting rookie card releases in some time.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1912

Leave a reply

Baseball cards exploded in popularity in the late 19th century as tobacco companies began including them in cigarette and cigar packages as premiums and incentives to buy their products. By 1912, baseball cards had become hugely collectible items across America. While pricing guides and resources were not as developed as they are today, we can still get a sense of the value of early 20th century baseball cards from the information that was recorded at the time.

The early 1910s marked the transition from tobacco cards to more premium sets directly sold to collectors. In 1911, the American Tobacco Company lost its monopoly and production of baseball cards expanded beyond just tobacco inserts. Companies like American Caramel began directly producing and distributing sets of cards not tied to tobacco products. This increased availability drove more interest in collecting from fans.

The most valuable cards circa 1912 came from the very earliest tobacco issues of the late 1880s and 1890s, which are now considered the hobby’s most iconic releases. The 1887 N168 Old Judge tobacco cards featured future Hall of Famers like Roger Connor, Tim Keefe and Jim O’Rourke. In near mint condition, key cards from this set could sell for $5-10 each, equivalent to around $125-250 in today’s dollars based on inflation.

The most coveted single card was the 1889 N13 Old Judge card of baseball’s first true star, Cap Anson of the Chicago White Stockings. Anson was baseball’s first true celebrity and his card was hugely popular. In top preserved condition with strong color, an Anson card could be worth $15-20 in 1912 currency.

Cards from the even rarer and more historic 1888 Goodwin Champions set also commanded high prices. The set featured early stars like Buck Ewing, King Kelly and Jim Brown. Their cards were extremely tough to acquire in 1912 since so few survived in high grade from over 20 years prior. A pristine 1888 Goodwin card might sell for $25-50, around $600-1200 today.

Moving into the 1890s, the most valuable tobacco issues were the 1891–1893 Mayo Cut Plug and Leaf tobacco cards. These colorful, graphically intricate cards became highly collectible and included early National League teams like the Boston Beaneaters and Baltimore Orioles. Keys cards like a 1893 Leaf Billy Hamilton or 1891 Mayo Plug King Kelly could be worth $10-15 each in 1912 money if in top condition.

The most accessible cards to collectors in the early 1910s dated from the late 1890s and early 1900s. Sets like 1899 T206 White Borders, 1898 Strip Ticket Cabinet and 1896 Star Collectors Series were still quite collectible even though only 15 years old at most. An intact 1896 Star set in very good condition may have sold for $10-15 in total at the time. Single cards ranged from 50 cents to $2-3 depending on player, condition and scarcity.

Pricing also varied greatly depending on what city a collector lived in. Cards were worth significantly more in major league cities where there was stronger local interest. For example, a 1909 T206 card of Chicago Cubs star Joe Tinker may have sold for $1-2 in Chicago but only 50 cents elsewhere since his star power was higher locally. Regional price differences could be dramatic.

By far the most widely collected and available cards circa 1912 were the modern issues of the late 1900s and very early 1910s. Complete sets of the 1909-1911 T206 White Border and 1911 T205 Gold Border issues could typically be acquired for $5-10. Popular Chicago players like Ed Reulbach and Frank Schulte from these sets may have added $1-2 to the value.

The rarest and most historic 1880s and 1890s tobacco era cards understandably topped the prices guides of 1912. But there was strong collector demand for any early 20th century issues as well, as the modern hobby was just taking shape. Regional differences and player popularity were also major factors. While dollar amounts may seem small today, they translated to significant value over 100 years ago. This gives collectors a sense of relative pricing tiers for the exciting early era of baseball’s collectible card boom.