TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 PRICE GUIDE

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1987 was a unique year for Topps baseball cards as it was the first year Topps produced its cards through printing instead of the previous gum manufacturing process. This change led to significant differences in the physical composition and appearance of the 1987 Topps cards compared to prior years. The cards had a thinner glossier finish and featured brighter colors compared to the thicker stock of previous Topps issues.

While the physical differences were notable, what really drives the collectibility and prices of vintage baseball cards is the players and the scarcity of rare and valuable cards. The 1987 Topps set features many all-time great players who were in their prime or just entering it. Players like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Kirby Puckett, and Barry Bonds all appear prominently in the set in seasons before they achieved their highest levels of fame and accolades.

The standard 1987 Topps base card set contains 792 cards featuring active major leaguers as well as retired stars and managers/coaches. The most common cards from this set hold relatively little value today, being readily available and found in most vintage baseball card collections. Examples of mid-range priced common base cards include:

Wade Boggs (#48 Boston Red Sox): $1-2
Ozzie Smith (#118 St. Louis Cardinals): $2-3
Roger Clemens (#331 Boston Red Sox): $3-5

There are several key factors that can dramatically increase the value of certain 1987 Topps cards above their base values:

Rookie Cards: Debut cards often carry a substantial premium, especially for future Hall of Famers and all-time great players. Some examples of valuable 1987 Topps rookie cards include:

Ken Griffey Jr (#321 Seattle Mariners): $50-75
Greg Maddux (#600 Chicago Cubs): $40-60
Tom Glavine (#581 Atlanta Braves): $30-50
Barry Larkin (#680 Cincinnati Reds): $25-35

Short Prints: Certain cards in the 1987 Topps base set were printed in lower numbers than usual, making them statistically rarer and more valuable. Among the most coveted short prints are:

Tim Raines (#481 Montreal Expos): $50-75
Mark McGwire (#601 Oakland A’s): $40-60
Kirby Puckett (#651 Minnesota Twins): $30-50

Gold Cards: Occurring 1 in every wax pack on average, the 1987 Topps Gold Cards featured a gold border around the image and held an instant premium over the basic issue. Key gold cards include:

Ozzie Smith (#118G St. Louis Cardinals): $75-100
Wade Boggs (#48G Boston Red Sox): $50-75
Rickey Henderson (#481G Oakland A’s): $40-60

odder Errors: Missed-cut errors, off-center strikes, upside-down prints and other manufacturing anomalies that differ significantly from the card’s normal design command high values from error card collectors.

Additional Insert Sets: Topps also released additional insert sets packed less frequently in 1987 wax packs to spark extended collector interest. The most valuable of these include:

All-Star Cards (132 cards): Complete set $200-300
Postseason Highlights Cards (48 cards): Key cards $20-50 each

While not all 1987 Topps cards hold enormous long-term appreciation potential, savvy collectors know that this vintage issue features some of the best rookie cards and most iconography of players crossing over into their primes or entering baseball immortality. Short print variations, manufacturing errors, strong visual designs featuring rising young talents all contribute to an active market where Condition sensitive high-grade examples continue earning premium value investment returns decades after the original product’s release.

For collectors seeking affordability alongside the allure of pre-fame stars, 1987 Topps maintains its status as one of the most collectible late 1980s issues thanks to iconic imagery and an enviable place in the early careers of future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Glavine, Maddux, Larry Walker, and others. Whether enjoying the nostalgia of childhood heroes or pursuing valuable classic cardboard, 1987 Topps remains among the most fan-recommended vintage sports card sets for builders of the past and future.

1950 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1950 Topps baseball card set was the first series of modern cards produced by Topps and holds significant historical value to collectors. With its simple yet colorful design featuring a single player per card, the 1950 Topps set helped popularize baseball cards as serious collectibles. While production numbers were high compared to later years, condition and rarity still play a role in the value of individual cards from the 1950 Topps set over 70 years later.

One of the most valuable and famous cards from the 1950 Topps set is the Mickey Mantle rookie card. As one of the greatest players of all time and an iconic baseball legend, the Mantle rookie is highly sought after by collectors. In gem mint condition, graded MINT 9 or higher by services like PSA or Beckett, Mantle rookies have sold for over $2 million at auction. Even in low-grade EX-MT 5 condition, a Mantle rookie could still fetch $100,000 due to its immense historical significance. Outside of a perfect gem mint 10 graded card, condition is crucial, as small flaws can greatly impact its final sale price.

Another extremely valuable card from the 1950 Topps set is the Willie Mays rookie. Graded high in mint condition, a Mays rookie has sold for over $600,000 at auction in recent years. Like the Mantle, condition is paramount for a high-value Mays rookie, with anything graded lower than EX-MT likely selling in the low five-figure range or less. Both the Mantle and Mays rookies have maintained high prices over decades given their subjects’ baseball legends status and the iconic nature of their first Topps cards at the dawn of the modern era.

While the Mantle and Mays rookies clearly sit atop 1950 Topps values, there are still many other stars of that year whose cards maintain significant value depending on condition and player collectibility. A Ted Williams or Bob Feller PSA/Beckett gem mint 9 rookie could easily sell for $50,000-$100,000 at auction. Top stars like Robin Roberts, Duke Snider, Richie Ashburn, Johnny Mize, and Enos Slaughter in the same high grades have sold in the $10,000-$20,000 range. Lower grade versions of these same star rookies tend to sell in the few thousand dollar range. From there, mid-grade EX-MT versions of top 50s stars like Lou Boudreau, Stan Musial, Hank Aaron, and Early Wynn would likely sell for $1,000-$3,000 each depending on condition exactness.

Beyond rookie cards, the 1950 Topps set also saw high values achieved for especially sought-after common cards in top condition. The Mickey Mantle card #311 PSA/BGS gem mint 9 recently sold for almost $40,000, showcasing how even non-rookie versions of his iconic 1950s cards can be worth huge sums. Other high value common cards have included a Ted Williams #78 in the same high grade selling for over $22,000 and a Willie Mays #100 that brought $15,500. Of course, these are from the very tippy top of the condition spectrum – finding 1950s cards in that kind of perfect gem mint shape after 70+ years is extremely rare in itself. Still, even very high quality common cards like these can cross the $1,000 threshold depending on the player and specific card condition details.

Beyond the high-dollar rookie cards and true gem mint commons, the value of a 1950 Topps card depends heavily on its condition and the player featured. For example, an average condition Ted Williams, Hank Aaron, or Robin Roberts common card could sell for $200-$500. Lower tier stars and backups tend to sell in the $50-$150 range across a wide EX-MT to POOR conditioned spectrum. Complete common sets of the 117 cards in Fair to Good range usually sell between $1,000 to $3,000. And incomplete common sets with 60% or more of the cards present in similar average condition have sold for $500-$1,000.

Condition, star power, and extremely rare finds are the biggest drivers of 1950 Topps card prices 72 years after their production. Iconic rookie cards of Mantle, Mays, and a few others remain true collectible treasures worth huge sums. But this groundbreaking first modern issue also still finds value for collectors at many price points depending on the specifics of each individual card. The 1950 Topps set paved the way for the entire hobby and maintains its place in history due to its array of stars from baseball’s golden era.

JUNK WAX BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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The late 1980s and early 1990s saw an unprecedented surge in baseball card production and speculation, driven by the sport’s exploding popularity and new printing technologies that allowed for stunning photo-realistic cardboard. The floods of new issues also severely diluted the scarcity and drove down values of even the most iconic players and sets from that era. These so-called “junk wax” cards are now widely available in penny boxes and bargain bins for collectors looking to fill out theirwant lists on a tight budget or start a collection without breaking the bank.

The main culprits behind the junk wax era were the dominant companies Donruss and Fleer. In 1989 alone, Donruss produced a mind-boggling 1.8 billion cards while Fleer wasn’t far behind at 1.5 billion. Sets from this era like Donruss’ “Diamond Kings,” Fleer’s “Ultra,” and Score’s “Black Gold” featuring high gloss foil treatments were designed more as pieces of colorful cardboard than true collectibles. With print runs numbered in the millions or more for star players, these cards lost scarcity and therefore value almost immediately.

This glut of available cardboard from the junk wax era opened the door for many modern collectors. Prices for even the biggest 80s and 90s star rookies or inserts have remained very budget-friendly compared to their predecessors. Complete sets from Topps, Donruss, Fleer and more can be had on the secondary market for just pennies per card. This makes junk wax an ideal starting point for those looking to fill out team and player collections inexpensively. While reseller sites are abundant for junk wax, local card shows will offer the best in-person browsing experience and haggling opportunities.

Some examples of sets that exemplify the junk wax concept include Donruss’ 1989 flagship issue. With astronomical print runs in the billions, even rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine can be found for under $1 in played condition. 1989 Fleer and Score are also emblematic of this era, plastering photos of stars on cards that were clearly mass produced. Junk wax collectors may also want to target sets from brands like Stadium Club, Ultra, Pinnacle and ProCards that were pumping out cards by the truckload.

Not all junk wax should be discarded – there are still gems to be found with enough digging. Rare gold parallels, coveted serial numbered inserts, and error cards can pop up worth far more than their facial value. The 1991 Topps Traded set is a good example, housing short printed parallels of Chipper Jones, Moises Alou and others that command higher prices. Savvy collectors may also notice that even common junk wax rookies of all-time greats like Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr. and Barry Bonds are starting to creep back up in value as those 1980s/1990s generations age into serious collection.

While many view junk wax as the dark era of mass production ruining scarcity and values, their extreme availability makes them an affordable doorway into set and player collection building. One man’s junk is another’s treasure, and budding or budget-minded collectors would be wise to scour the surplus of 90s cardboard still available before prices recover any further with nostalgia. Resellers will practically give away complete junk wax sets, making it an inexpensive opportunity to acquire iconic 80s and 90s cards that tell the story of that larger-than-life era in MLB history. Just don’t expect high returns if trying to flip bulk junk wax lots for profit.

The junk wax era opened the floodgates for modern collectors. While stars and inserts from that era will likely never regain the scarcity and value of their predecessors, their extreme availability makes sets featuring flagship players surprisingly affordable to acquire. Whether it’s filling out a team, player collection or just starting a new hobby, junk wax cardboard provides a budget-friendly doorway. Savvy collectors may find rare parallels and errors provide better returns, but the main draws are accessibility and capturing iconic 80s/90s moments for a fraction of previous costs. For those reasons, junk wax baseball cards remain a staple for budget collectors and an inexpensive starting point for set building decades later.

TOP DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards hold a special place in the hearts of many collectors and fans of America’s pastime. Among the most prized possessions for any dedicated card aficionado are examples from the earliest series issued in the late 19th century, considered the true “top deck” treasures of the hobby. While finding pristine examples from the earliest sets in mint condition has become nearly impossible due to the cards’ extreme age, hunting for high-quality vintage cardboard remains an exciting pursuit for generations of collectors.

Some of the first baseball cards were included as advertisements in sheets of bubble gum as early as 1886. The tobacco companies are widely credited with mainstreaming and popularizing the inclusion of baseball cards in their products beginning in the late 1880s. Topps, a perennial industry leader who would come to dominate the modern baseball card boom, was founded in 1938 but did not release its first series of gum- and candy-included baseball cards until 1951. With the mass production and insertion of cards in popular tobacco products like cigarettes and chewing tobacco, the golden age of baseball cards had truly begun.

Among the earliest and most collectible commercial issues are the iconic T206 and T205 sets produced between 1909 and 1911 by the American Tobacco Company. Named for the tax classification assigned to cigarettes at the time, the tobacco giant commissioned photographs of players from all teams to include in its cigarette packs. Multiple variants were produced using different photographs and backgrounds, adding tremendous complexity to the sets. Numbered between 1 and 524, specimens of the iconic “White Borders” T206 series in pristine mint condition can fetch hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars at auction depending on the player and rarity factors involved. Babe Ruth’s 1914 “Chicago” RC from the set, for example, set a new record when it sold for $5.2 million in 2016. Honus Wagner remains the most coveted card of all, with just a handful believed to still exist in high grades. An example that sold on eBay in 2007 for $2.8 million remains the most expensive trading card ever sold.

Another highly renowned set is the 1909-11 T205 “Gold Borders” issue, containing larger portrait photographs on a gold background. Though not quite as rare, specimens in mint condition also still demand a massive premium. Contemporaneous 1910 E121-1 and E90-1 issues from the retailer-focused Allen & Ginter sets featuring similar player portraits also attracted fervent interest from dedicated collectors. Lesser-known issues like the 1911 Imperial Tobacco of Canada offerings or assorted regional series created excitement as well for adding diversity to collections. Top-grade examples are exceedingly rare and valuable finds.

Into the teens and 1920s, the baseball card boom continued unabated as new cigarette brands popped up featuring cards of the day’s biggest stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and others. The American Caramel set of 1911-12 featured vivid color portraits and gave collectors a taste of things to come. Issues like 1914 C342 Goodwin Champions and 1914 C313 Pinky Whitened contained thick cardboard stock and highlighted rising luminaries. Perhaps the quintessential “top deck” set of the decade emerged in 1909 with the iconic 1912 Hassan Triple Fold tobacco issue. Boasting incredible embossed foil portraits and card designs, just 50 complete unopened boxes are believed to still exist in collectible condition today. Individual cards can often sell for six figures or more.

The golden age truly hit its commercial peak in the 1930s and 40s with the dawn of mass-produced gum and candy partnerships between baseball and big brands. The 1933 Goudey Gum Company cards are still among the most coveted vintage issues with their brilliantly colored action photographs. Stars of the era like Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, and Dizzy Dean dazzle collectors. High numbers of the original 1933 print run survive but high grades remain elusive. Meanwhile, other series like 1937-38 Goudey gave cards an embossed 3D texture look. 1939 Play Ball and 1941-42/45 Play Ball in particular represented some of the finest pre-war designs and photography, highlighting legends like Ted Williams, Bob Feller, and Stan Musial. Reaching these epochs in top-notch condition is the stuff of fantasy for many collectors.

Similar candy-inclusive issues followed suit post-World War II as names like Topps, Bowman, and Leaf rose to prominence. The 1952 Topps debut issue contained familiar faces like Jackie Robinson, Stan Musial, and Mickey Mantle but are difficult to find intact in pristine shape owing to their flimsy paper construction. Bowman brought colorful lithographed designs and player pose variety in postwar issues. The beloved 1952 Bowman set introduced future Hall of Famers like Willie Mays and Duke Snider. In mint condition with bright colors and sharp details visible, high-grade 1952s can trade hands for six-figure prices. Condition sensitive post-war sets like 1953 Topps, 1955 Topps, and the oddball 1957 Topps are irresistible challenges for questing collectors hoping to obtain the finest certified specimens.

While modern mass-produced issues from the 1970s onward hold little scarcity value compared to their forebears, finding pristine gems from the true pioneers of cardboard remains the holy grail for vintage collectors. Whether one seeks the finest known Wagner tobacco card or 1933 Goudey Ruth in a holder graded Mint 9, successful additions of top-tier pieces add immensely to any collection. With less than a handful of specimens believed to exist in each case, the hunt for the absolute rarest of the rare from baseball’s earliest cardboard era never loses its excitement or ability to captivate dedicated players of the card game. With prices ascending each new auction cycle for the bluest of blue chip vintage rarities, the booming market shows no signs of slowing in its appreciation for the birth of America’s pastime on paper and card stock. For generations to come, the chase continues anew for finding each set’s prized missing precious pearl among the earliest and most desirable cardboard keepsakes of them all from the true top deck of baseball card history.

The frenzied collector community, huge monetary stakes, and mystique around pristine specimens of the earliest sets has helped ensure baseball’s cardboard past remains incredibly well-documented and preserved despite its immense age. While affordable for today’s average collector may be replicas, reprints or lower-grade originals, the religious pursuit of perfection in attaining and certifying true “kingpins” from before the hobby’s explosion extends baseball card collecting’s lore for years to come. Whether gazing upon the finest known examples protected in holders or living vicariously through auction results, appreciating the birth of our hobby through its earliest and most important pioneers on the top deck remains an incredible privilege andtreat for all card fans. The origins and mystique of our pastime in paper form truly began with these legendary early sets deserving of their top billing place in our sport’s annals. Their allure and ability to captivate future generations after over a century since issue only grow stronger with time.

23 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Topps baseball cards have been a staple of the baseball card collecting hobby since the company began producing cards in the early 1950s. Over the decades, Topps has created countless iconic cards that are highly sought after by collectors. Here’s a look at 23 of the most valuable Topps baseball cards from the 1950s to the 1980s and their estimated values:

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – PSA 10: One of the holy grails of sports cards is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. Widely considered the most valuable baseball card of all-time, a PSA Gem Mint 10 graded example recently sold for $5.2 million, making it the highest price ever paid for a single sports card. Even well-worn lower graded copies can fetch six-figure prices.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – PSA 8: Hank Aaron’s rookie card from his breakout 1957 season with the Milwaukee Braves is one of the most iconic cards from the late 1950s. A PSA 8 copy recently sold for $239,500, showing the demand for high-end examples of this historically significant rookie card. Lower graded copies in the PSA 5-7 range still sell for $10,000+.

1968 Topps Nolan Ryan – PSA 10: Nolan Ryan’s early career card from 1968, showing him as a member of the New York Mets, has steadily increased in value in recent years. The card has taken on greater significance as Ryan’s pitching records have been cemented in baseball history. A PSA 10 Gem Mint copy is estimated to be worth $25,000-35,000 today.

1969 Topps Willie Mays – PSA 8: Widely considered one of the most visually appealing cards ever produced, the 1969 Topps Willie Mays card captures the Say Hey Kid in the prime of his career with the San Francisco Giants. A high-grade PSA 8 copy is valued around $15,000 today for this true icon of the vintage era.

1970 Topps Johnny Bench – PSA 10: As the cover card of the 1970 set, Johnny Bench’s impressive rookie season with the Big Red Machine Cincinnati Reds is immortalized on this card. High-end PSA 10 specimens trade hands for $10,000-15,000, though any grade of this historic rookie commands big money from collectors.

1971 Topps Joe Morgan – PSA 8: Before becoming a Hall of Famer primarily known for his years with the Cincinnati Reds, Joe Morgan had an early career with the Houston Astros that is remembered through his 1971 Topps card. PSA 8 copies have sold for around $3,000 in recent years.

1972 Topps Steve Carlton – PSA 10: One of the most dominant pitchers of the 1970s, Steve Carlton’s 1972 Topps card captures Lefty in his early prime with the St. Louis Cardinals. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for $5,000-7,000, reflecting Carlton’s legacy.

1973 Topps Reggie Jackson – PSA 8: Known as “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, Reggie Jackson’s breakout season of 1973 with the Oakland A’s is depicted on this classic card. PSA 8 copies in the $1,500 range are a solid investment for this all-time slugger.

1974 Topps Mike Schmidt – PSA 10: Arguably the greatest third baseman in baseball history, Mike Schmidt’s rookie card is the 1974 Topps issue showing him as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies. High-end PSA 10 specimens have reached $3,000 at auction.

1975 Topps George Brett – PSA 8: Future Hall of Famer George Brett had his rookie season with the Kansas City Royals in 1973, but his more widely produced card is the 1975 Topps issue. PSA 8 copies have sold for around $800 in recent years.

1976 Topps George Foster – PSA 8: Before being traded to the Cincinnati Reds, George Foster had an early career with the San Francisco Giants and New York Mets that is remembered through his 1976 Topps rookie card. Even well-worn PSA 5 copies can net $150.

1977 Topps Eddie Murray – PSA 8: One of the greatest hitting first basemen ever, Eddie Murray debuted with the 1977 Baltimore Orioles and is immortalized on his rookie card from that season. PSA 8 copies have sold for $400-500.

1978 Topps Ron Guidry – PSA 10: Yankee ace Ron Guidry’s breakout 1977 season that saw him win 25 games and the Cy Young award is captured on his 1978 Topps card. Pristine PSA 10 specimens have reached $1,000 at auction.

1979 Topps Dave Parker – PSA 8: Before making a name for himself with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Dave Parker had his rookie season with the Cincinnati Reds in 1973 depicted on his 1979 Topps card. PSA 8 copies sell in the $150 range.

1980 Topps Nolan Ryan – PSA 8: By 1980, Nolan Ryan was already well on his way to rewriting the record books as arguably the greatest strikeout pitcher ever. His iconic mustached image from this season has made it one of his most popular cards ever. PSA 8 copies have reached $500.

1981 Topps Fernando Valenzuela – PSA 8: The rookie card of Fernandomania pitcher Fernando Valenzuela is a standout from the 1981 set, showing the Dodgers lefty in all his curly-haired glory. Even well-worn PSA 5 copies can sell for $75-100.

1982 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. – PSA 8: Before becoming “The Iron Man,” Cal Ripken Jr. was a promising young shortstop just starting his career with the Baltimore Orioles. His classic rookie card remains a bargain even in lower grades.

1983 Topps Ryne Sandberg – PSA 8: A true icon of the 1980s Chicago Cubs, Ryne Sandberg’s impressive rookie season is remembered on his 1983 Topps issue. PSA 8 copies regularly sell in the $150 range.

1984 Topps Dwight Gooden – PSA 8: As one of the most hyped rookie pitchers ever, Doc Gooden lived up to expectations during his sensational 1984 campaign for the New York Mets. His rookie card is a true gem, even well-worn.

1985 Topps Barry Bonds – PSA 8: Considered one of the greatest baseball players ever, Barry Bonds’ Hall of Fame career began with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His iconic 1985 rookie card looks as great as the player himself.

1986 Topps Mark McGwire – PSA 8: Before the home run chase with Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire was an up-and-coming slugger for the Oakland A’s. High-grade copies of his rookie card remain a strong long-term investment.

1987 Topps Ken Griffey Jr. – PSA 8: The smooth left-handed swing of “The Kid” takes you back to 1987 with this true piece of cardboard history. Even well-centered but lower graded copies sell for $100-200.

Pristine high-grade examples of these historic Topps rookie cards and other key issues from the 1950s-1980s can sell for thousands, with the all-time greats like Mantle, Aaron, and Mays reaching five and even six figures. But there are also solid value propositions to be found even in average or well-worn lower graded copies. For avid collectors, owning a piece of these players’ early careers and the vintage baseball card era is well worth the investment.

BROCK WILKEN BASEBALL CARDS

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Brock Wilken is considered one of the top collectors of vintage baseball cards in the world. His collection is renowned for its completeness, rarity, and condition of the cards. Now in his late 50s, Wilken has been amassing baseball cards since he was a young boy in the 1970s. Over the past 40+ years, he has meticulously sought out and acquired some of the most coveted cards in the hobby.

Wilken’s collection is truly a sight to behold. Housed in a temperature-controlled vault in his home, the collection is sorted and organized with precision. In total, it contains over 10,000 individual cards spanning from the late 1800s to the 1970s. Some of the most notable gems in Wilken’s collection include:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – Graded PSA 8 – One of the crown jewels of Wilken’s collection is this ultra-rare Honus Wagner card. Considered the most valuable trading card in existence, Wilken’s example is in remarkable condition for its age. The centering is strong and the colors are bright. Estimated value is over $3 million.

1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth – Graded PSA 8 – This iconic Ruth rookie card is the key to the entire 1933 Goudey set. Wilken’s copy shows impressive eye appeal with sharp corners and vivid images. At the last public auction, a PSA 8 brought over $500,000.

1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle – Graded PSA 8 – Mantle’s iconic rookie card is a must-have for any serious collector. Wilken’s PSA 8 example has great color and centering. Top-graded 1952 Mantle rookies have sold for north of $2 million.

1964 Topps #130 Hank Aaron – Graded PSA 9 – Wilken’s pristine Hank Aaron rookie is one of the finest known. The centering is dead-on and the surfaces are flawless. A PSA 9 Aaron rookie would be a strong candidate for the highest price ever paid for a modern-era card.

1971 Topps #20 Nolan Ryan – Graded PSA 10 – This Ryan rookie is the crown jewel of Wilken’s entire 1971 Topps set, which is complete and all PSA 10. Wilken’s Ryan rookie is flawless – the ultimate trophy card for any collector.

Beyond his all-time great vintage cards, Wilken’s collection also contains complete or near-complete sets from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. He has several Goudey, Topps, and Post sets in high-grade condition, many of which are missing only a handful of keys to be pristine. Wilken’s 1956 Topps complete set, for example, contains over 50 cards graded PSA 9 or PSA 10.

In addition to his vintage cards, Wilken has also amassed an impressive modern collection. He owns 1-of-1 printing plates and sketch cards from the late 80s and 90s that are valued well into the six figures. Wilken also possesses a complete run of rare parallel and short-print sets from the late 90s and 2000s.

To house and display his vast collection, Wilken had a custom vault and display cases constructed in his home. The vault features state-of-the-art security including biometric locks, motion sensors, and cameras. Inside are rows of climate-controlled cases displaying his cards in magnetic holders sorted by year and set. The cases are positioned under specialized lighting to best show off each card’s surfaces and colors.

Beyond just collecting and preserving history, Wilken is also an advocate and philanthropist for the hobby. He has donated some of his duplicate cards to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and frequently lends prized pieces to museums for exhibits. Wilken also supports youth programs that introduce children to the joy of collecting through donations of common vintage cards.

Though he will never sell his entire collection, Wilken has consigned some of his finest individual cards to auction over the years. The proceeds from record-setting sales have gone towards charities that promote baseball. He also enjoys sharing his passion by giving private tours of his collection vault to fellow enthusiasts.

At this stage in his life, Wilken’s sole focus remains caring for and growing what is considered the finest private baseball card collection in existence. Through decades of dedication, he has amassed true pop culture treasures chronicling over a century of America’s pastime. Wilken’s collection will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest assemblages in the history of sports memorabilia.

1992 TOPPS MICRO BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1992 Topps Micro Baseball card set holds a special place in the world of collectible sports cards. Containing just 162 cards in the base set, the diminutive size and unique horizontal card design made the 1992 Topps Micro set a novel novelty at the time of its initial release. Almost 30 years later, finding a complete unopened box of these cards is a true rarity in the hobby.

The concept for the Micro-sized cards was proposed by Topps in an effort to appeal to a younger audience just being introduced to the joys of collecting. At only 1 3/4 inches tall by 1 1/2 inches wide, the 1992 Topps Micro cards were a fraction of the standard size cards collectors had grown accustomed to. Instead of the traditional vertical layout, Topps went with a unusual horizontal design for the Micros to better showcase the player image and stats within the restricted space.

Despite some initial skepticism in the hobby, the 1992 Topps Micro set was a commercial success upon its release. The diminutive size factor helped spark interest in a new generation of younger collectors. Finding room to safely store and display the completed 162 card Micro set was also part of the novelty appeal. However, Topps only produced the cards in wax packs as they normally would for a regular sized release. This meant the cards came randomized with no guarantee of completing the entire set from only a few packs.

Each wax pack contained 8 Micro cards in a protective foil wrapper. A box contained 24 packs for a total of 192 cards. As with all sealed wax pack product at the time, there was no way of definitively knowing the exact card content of an unopened box without opening it. This created an air of mystery and chase in trying to complete the set, as is integral to the collecting hobby. With there only being 162 different cards needed, a factory sealed full box theoretically should contain multiple duplicates along with some needed cards to finish.

Flash forward three decades later and finding a pristine 1992 Topps Micro Baseball card box still sealed is the ultimate chase for collectors of the set. With the original production numbers undoubtedly dwindling over the past 30 years due to natural box breaks over time, an intact unopened wax box has truly become a prized commodity. Prices they command have climbed exponentially in value compared to when first released.

Several key factors contribute to the immense desirability and value propped up for an unopened 1992 Topps Micro box in today’s market:

Rarity – Very few sealed boxes are believed left intact after all these years. Natural deterioration of wax and cardboard make this an increasing scarce opportunity.

Condition – As with any sealed vintage product, a pristine factory wrapped box with no tears, creases or other defects exponentially increases its worth.

Completion Potential – Containing 192 randomized cards, a sealed box theoretically gives the best odds available of completing the base 162 card set in one fell swoop.

Investment Upside – Strong long term collector demand and limited future supply points to further price appreciation holding and potentially opening an unmolested box decades from now.

Desire of Set – The 1992 Topps Micros have maintained a very strong collector following and fond remembrances of the set’s unique qualities and smaller size factor.

Display Piece – An intact sealed wax box is a true trophy for any vintage card collection museum shelf, sparking nostalgia and wonder about its contents.

Taking all these influences into account, a pristine 1992 Topps Micro Baseball card wax box that has survived nearly 30 years intact and unsearched is now considered one of the crown jewels of the vintage sports card world. Prices have been known to fetch upwards of $10,000 when a soul box emerges on the secondary market. For the right collector looking to treat themselves or invest in a true rarity with immense upside, a factory sealed 92 Topps Micro box is about as good as it gets in the hobby. Finding that proverbial needle in the haystack still remains the elusive chase for this singular opportunity almost three decades after these unique cards were initially released.

2022 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS

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Leaf Trading Cards is a popular sports card company that has been producing baseball cards since 1986. Their 2022 baseball card releases saw Leaf continue innovating the hobby while also paying homage to the rich history of the sport.

One of Leaf’s biggest releases of 2022 was their “Metal Universe” set, which featured cards made of real metal instead of traditional paper/cardstock. The Metal Universe cards stood out with their unique metallic sheen and textures. Each card contained swatches of game-used memorabilia embedded directly into the metal. Players featured included superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Ronald Acuña Jr. The Metal Universe set was a limited production run and became very popular with collectors seeking high-end unique items for their collections.

In addition to Metal Universe, Leaf also released “Museum Collection” which paid tribute to some of the most iconic photos from baseball’s past. The photos on these cards were high resolution reproductions of historical images directly from the archives of Major League Baseball. Some of the memorable photos included included Babe Ruth calling his shot in the 1932 World Series, Hank Aaron’s 715th career home run, and Bill Mazeroski’s walk-off home run that won the 1960 World Series for Pittsburgh. Each card contained information about the original photo and its significance. The Museum Collection was popular with collectors looking to commemorate baseball history.

Leaf also had some traditional paper card releases in 2022. Their main “Leaf Greatest of All Time” set focused on retired star players and their legendary careers. Each card contained stats and career highlights. Some of the players featured in the set included Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera. Parallels and autograph/relic versions of these GOAT cards were popular chase cards. The set had a clean retro design that was a nice change of pace compared to some of the busier modern card designs.

On the prospect side, Leaf released sets like “Trilogy” and “Flawless” that gave collectors their first cards of the game’s up and coming young stars. The Trilogy set included first-year-player cards of draft picks and international signings from 2021 like Jack Leiter, Kumar Rocker, and Lazaro Montes. Meanwhile Flawless, with its ultra-premium packaging and materials, contained highly sought after rookie cards and autographs of elite prospects like Bobby Witt Jr., Cade Cavalli, and Spencer Torkelson. These sets helped fuel the never-ending hunt for the “next big thing.”

In addition to sets focused on current players, Leaf also released several sets honoring baseball icons from the past. Their “Golden Anniversary” set marked significant events from 1972, the year many players were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Their “Diamond Kings” set spotlighted the careers of legends like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax. Autograph and memorabilia cards of these all-time greats were highly coveted by collectors.

Leaf also tried to make the hobby more accessible with their “All-Time Heroes” set, which contained base cards of MLB’s most recognizable names that could be found in retail packs under $10. This helped introduce younger and newer collectors to some of the sport’s most admired figures throughout history.

In summary, Leaf Trading Cards continued innovating the baseball card space in 2022 while also honoring the rich past of America’s pastime. With sets focused on current stars, legends, prospects, and history – Leaf had something to appeal to collectors both casual and die-hard. Their unique metal and high-end releases pushed the limits of card design and collectability. Looking ahead, Leaf seems poised to further push the boundaries of the hobby as they enter their fourth decade producing sports cards.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 1985

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The 1985 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular and memorable issues from the brand during the 1980s. Donruss was one of the “Big 3” card companies of the time along with Topps and Fleer. Their 1985 set showcased another year of star players and rising young talents from across Major League Baseball.

Some key things to know about the 1985 Donruss baseball card set include:

The set contains 524 total cards including base cards, rookie cards, stars, and manager/coach cards. This was a large set compared to previous Donruss issues.

Design and photography was a step up from prior years. Cards featured colorful team logo borders and many sharp action shots of players. The photography gave the cards a modern and exciting look.

Roster included many of the game’s biggest stars from the mid-1980s such as Wade Boggs, George Brett, Rickey Henderson, Mike Schmidt, and Ozzie Smith. This was the era when Don Mattingly, Kirby Puckett, and Roger Clemens were emerging as young stars.

Notable rookie cards included Bret Saberhagen, Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and Tom Glavine. These players would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and their ’85 rookies remain highly sought after by collectors today.

The set also featured rookie cards for future stars like Will Clark, Terry Pendleton, and Bob Welch. While not true “rookies”, cards were included for superstars like Nolan Ryan and Reggie Jackson who were still active but nearing the end of their careers.

Checklists, manager/coach cards, and team/league leaders cards added to the set. These non-player cards helped tell the story of baseball in 1985 and provided additional collecting and trade bait opportunities for kids.

Distribution was strong through hobby shops, convenience/grocery stores, and vending machines. This helped Donruss cards remain very accessible and affordable, fueling their popularity among young collectors.

While not quite as valuable as the flagship Topps set in the long run, ’85 Donruss cards retained nostalgia and demand due to the players featured and memories of opening wax packs as a kid.

Some additional details on specific aspects of the 1985 Donruss baseball card set:

Rookie Cards – As mentioned, the rookies of Saberhagen, Larkin, McGwire, and Glavine are the most iconic from the set today. Other notables included Oddibe McDowell, Kal Daniels, Dave Martinez, and reliever Jeff Parrett. These players had varying levels of MLB success but their rookie cards remain a fun part of the ’85 Donruss collection.

Design – The team-colored borders, action shots, and classic Donruss logo made the cards really pop on the rack or in a binder. Close-up headshots were also used effectively to feature the players. Overall it was a clean, colorful look that still holds up aesthetically today.

Parallels – In addition to the base set, Donruss also released “Traded” parallels that featured the same photos but with different team logos for players that switched clubs. These added a layer of complexity for collectors.

Inserts – Multi-player inserts like “Diamond Kings”, “Team Leaders”, and “All-Stars” broke up the monotony and provided collector incentives to try and complete the mini-sets within the larger set.

Availability – The large print run and ubiquitous distribution through various retail outlets ensured the ’85 Donruss cards remained affordable and accessible. This fueled their popularity at the time among the generation of young collectors in the 1980s.

While not the most valuable set in the long run, Donruss’ 1985 baseball card issue represented the pinnacle of the brand’s popularity during the decade. Featuring a who’s who of MLB stars alongside memorable rookie cards, it captured the excitement of baseball in the mid-1980s. The sharp photography and designs gave the cards a timeless look that still resonates with collectors today. For anyone who grew up with Donruss in the 1980s, the 1985 set holds a special place and will forever remind them of the joy of collecting as a kid.

BEST 2022 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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2022 Topps Chrome Baseball Cards – The Highly Anticipated Chrome Version of the Popular Topps Base Set

The release of Topps Chrome baseball cards each year is highly anticipated by collectors both young and old. As the refracted parallel version of Topps’ flagship baseball card release, Topps Chrome takes the designs and look of the base set and supercharges them with flashy chrome borders and refractors. While the base set designs remain consistent year over year, Topps Chrome is where collectors can find short printed parallels, autographs, and big rookie cards in eye-catching chrome.

2022 saw another excellent crop of rookies enter Major League Baseball like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Spencer Strider. Their rookie cards in the 2022 Topps Chrome set are some of the most sought after modern baseball cards on the market. With its classic design and modern parallels, 2022 Topps Chrome once again delivered some true heavy hitters for collectors. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best and most valuable 2022 Topps Chrome cards to hunt:

Julio Rodriguez Chrome Refractor RC – The future star of the Seattle Mariners had an incredible rookie campaign that has collectors clamoring for his Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card. This short printed parallel features Julio’s photo in full color on a shiny chrome background. Expect this one to gain value as his career progresses.

Bobby Witt Jr. Chrome Refractor RC – Like Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr. had a phenomenal rookie season with the Kansas City Royals that has vaulted his Topps Chrome Refractor RC to the top of many want lists. His smooth left-handed swing and flashy plays at third make this a card to hold long term.

Spencer Strider Chrome Refractor RC – As one of the breakout pitching stars of 2022 for the Atlanta Braves, Spencer Strider’s Topps Chrome Refractor RC is a hot ticket. His electric stuff and impact as a rookie make this a card to watch closely.

Riley Greene Chrome Refractor RC – Despite injuries limiting his debut season with the Detroit Tigers, Riley Greene is still considered one of baseball’s top prospects. His Topps Chrome Refractor RC remains highly sought after.

Adley Rutschman Chrome Refractor RC – Adley finally got his long awaited call up to the Baltimore Orioles in 2022 and did not disappoint. As the #1 prospect in baseball, his Topps Chrome Refractor RC is a prized rookie for O’s fans and collectors.

Oneil Cruz Chrome Refractor RC – “El Niño” had an electrifying debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2022 with his huge power and speed. At 6’7, his Chrome Refractor RC captures collectors’ attention.

Jasson Dominguez Chrome Refractor /1999 – The #1 international prospect when signed by the Yankees, Jasson’s Topps Chrome Refractor parallel was limited to only 1999 copies. Sure to gain value as he develops.

Sandy Alcantara Chrome Autograph – The NL Cy Young front runner for the Marlins, Sandy’s on card auto in Topps Chrome is a trophy card for any PC.

Two of Clubs Parallel – This extremely rare parallel features special artwork on the front. Numbered to only 2 copies, it’s the holy grail parallel of the set.

Gold Foil Parallels – Numbered to only 10 copies each, these parallel feature players photos on gold foil. Big hits include Acuña Jr., Soto, and Ohtani.

Green Foil Parallels – Numbered to only 25 copies each, these are still highly sought after short prints like the Golds.

Base Set RCs – While the refractors and parallels gain more attention, base set rookie cards like Rodriguez, Witt Jr., and Strider are still essential pickups.

Overall, Topps Chrome continues to deliver some of the most visually striking and collectible modern baseball cards each year. With its mix of huge rookie stars, short printed parallels, and on-card autographs, the 2022 edition has something for every type of collector. While raw copies can still be found on shelves at the moment, most of the top cards mentioned here are already beginning to appreciate in the secondary market. For collectors chasing the next big stars or hunting trophies for their PC’s, Topps Chrome remains a must-open modern product.