1987 HIGHLIGHTS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most well-known and highly collectible issues from the 1980s. While it did not feature any true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, the ’87 Topps set provides a nostalgic look back at some of baseball’s biggest stars from that era. Cards from this set hold value for collectors decades later due to the memorable players featured and the popular design Topps used that year.

One of the defining aspects of the 1987 Topps cards is the ‘highlights’ format they used for the player photography. Rather than the standard headshots collectors had become used to, Topps opted to make the focal point of each card an action photo highlighting a signature moment or play from that player’s career. This gave the ’87 issue a memorable visual style that resonated with collectors. While a controversial change at the time, the highlights photos are now widely considered one of the best design aspects of the entire set.

Some specific ’87 Topps highlights cards that routinely fetch strong prices in the current vintage baseball market include standout rookie cards like Mark McGwire’s (#391) and Lenny Dykstra’s (#422). McGwire’s rookie in particular can sell for over $100 in top-graded Gem Mint condition due to his future Hall of Fame career and his connection to the late ’90s home run era. Dykstra’s rookie also holds value as he went on to have an impressive career as a hitter and center fielder known by his nickname “Nails.”

Other high-value highlights cards from the ’87 Topps issue focus on the biggest stars of the day like Don Mattingly (#113), Wade Boggs (#153), and Roger Clemens (#383). Mattingly’s card often exceeds $50 due to his status as one of the 1980s’ premier hitters for the Yankees. Boggs, known for his stellar batting average and base-running prowess, routinely sees his ’87 Topps card trade hands north of $30. And Clemens, a dominant pitcher who won multiple Cy Young awards in the 1980s and beyond, commands $40-plus for his ’87 highlights issue card.

Condition is crucial when determining the value of any vintage card, and that is certainly true for ’87 Topps cards. Higher graded examples like Mint 9 or Gem Mint 10 can often be exponentially more valuable than lower graded copies in Fair or Good condition. Due to the huge print run of the set during the height of the baseball card boom era, lower grade ’87 Topps cards are still quite attainable and affordable for most collectors if they are seeking certain favorite players from that time period. Focusing on acquiring and holding well-centered, eye-appealing examples can help protect an investment even at lower condition grades like Very Good or Excellent.

Rookie highlights cards of players like Ron Gant (#537), Gregg Jefferies (#447), and Ken Griffey Jr. (#440) also hold collector interest, albeit with much more modest values compared to the stars of the era. Still, pristine MT10 examples of these mid-80s rookie debuts can often sell in the $20-40 range depending on the player’s career achievements. And on the lower end, common veterans from the set provide an affordable doorway into vintage collecting, with cards of the likes of Rick Sutcliffe (#169) and Lee Smith (#504) readily available in about $1-3 range across most conditions.

While not the most valuable set from the junk wax era that followed, the 1987 Topps baseball issues remain an iconic look back at the sport during that period. Modern collectors appreciate the nostalgia of the memorable action photography style coupled with the excitement of sporting favorite players from their childhoods. Top rookie talents like McGwire and Dykstra anchor the high-value ends of the price spectrum, while many other star-studded highlights cards from Mattingly, Boggs, and Clemens fill out the steady mid-range valuations. Condition sensitive but still accessible across all levels, the ’87 Topps baseballs cards retain an authentic appeal that speaks to both vintage collectors and fans of 1980s baseball today.

VALUE OF 1972 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1972 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues in the entire history of the Topps brand. As collectors continue to pursue vintage cards from the 1970s, ’72 Topps remains highly sought after and prices for the stars of that era keep climbing. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cards so desirable and explore some of the standout singles from the set that can bring huge sums at auction.

Released in the spring of 1972, the ’72 Topps set was the 21st annual issue from Topps and contained 792 total cards – 660 standard player and manager cards, plus 132 multi-player and team cards. Design-wise, the ’72 issue had a fairly basic and traditional look compared to the experimental themes Topps would try in later ’70s issues. The iconic red-white-and-blue color scheme remained, along with simple player photo fronts and stats on the backs.

The era the ’72 cards captured is a big driver of their popularity. The early 1970s represented arguably the apex of baseball fandom in America. Attendance numbers were spiking and the sport’s cultural impact was massive. Legendary players like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Harmon Killebrew and Roberto Clemente were still active. Young stars on the rise included Johnny Bench, Rod Carew, Reggie Jackson and Mike Schmidt. With Topps chronicling the sport at its peak, collectors today prize any vintage cardboard showing the iconic players of that time period in their primes.

Production and printing methods in the early ’70s led to many more errors and quirks slipping into Topps releases versus today’s ultra-tight quality control standards. The prospect of uncovering an elusive error card from ‘72 adds another layer of excitement for collectors searching packs and boxes. Pristine examples of known mistakes in the set can be worth tens of thousands alone.

Looking at top individual cards from the ’72 Topps issue paints a picture of skyrocketing prices reached after decades of appreciation:

Hank Aaron (#250): At the time, Aaron was on the pursuit of Babe Ruth’s home run record, which he would break in ’74. High-graded Aaron rookies have hit over $100,000.

Nolan Ryan (#158): Ryan was just breaking out as one of baseball’s most dynamic young power pitchers. His Topps rookie can fetch $10,000 PSA 10.

Roberto Clemente (#177): Sadly, this was Clemente’s final card issued before his death in a plane crash. A PSA 10 sold for $68,625 in 2020.

Johnny Bench (#250): Bench was already well on his way to a Hall of Fame career catching behind the Big Red Machine in Cincinnati. Mint condition Bench rookies have surpassed $60,000.

Rod Carew (#240): Carew was in the prime of his incredible hitting career, which saw him win 7 batting titles. His ’72 Topps is valued around $4,000 ungraded.

Mike Schmidt (#280): Schmidt’s rookie coincided with his breakout 1972 season. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $20,000.

Graded high-end examples of these superstar rookies and vintage stars continue to set new records. But there are also deals to be found in lesser condition common players. As a whole set in any grade, ’72 Topps sets remain a blue-chip holdings that could appreciate nicely over the long run. With its star power and historical significance, this issue stands out as one of the most enduringly popular of all time among collectors and investors. As baby boomers who grew up with these cards enter retirement, their nostalgia and purchasing power will likely sustain interest that keeps ’72 Topps values climbing for years to come. An impressive example of design, players, and era all aligning to make these cards a benchmark in the hobby.

The 1972 Topps baseball card set stands tall as one of the most renowned and valuable vintage releases due to capturing the peak of the sport’s popularity during that era. Loaded with Hall of Famers and rookie stars, combined with production factors leading to errors and variations, the ’72 issue remains a highly collectible snapshot of baseball history. Individual star cards continue appreciating rapidly and the complete set presents a sound long-term collecting or investing opportunity for those with an eye on the vintage cardboard market. As one of Topps’ true “classic” issues, 1972 is cemented in the canon.

2023 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS

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Leaf Trading Cards is gearing up to release their 2023 baseball card set in the coming months. The Leaf brand has been producing high-end sports cards for over 30 years and their upcoming release is sure to excite collectors. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from the 2023 Leaf baseball cards.

Design and Photography: Leaf is known for their creative card designs and sharp photography. Early mockups of the 2023 set show a clean white border around vibrant action shots of players. The front of each card will feature the team logo in the bottom right corner along with set and player details printed clearly. On the back, stats and career highlights will be outlined in an easy to read format. As with previous Leaf releases, the photography and layouts are sure to stand out on the shelves.

Rookies and Prospects: A big focus for Leaf is highlighting top rookies and prospects in the hobby. Expect to see cards featuring some of the biggest young stars from the 2022 season like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr. and Adley Rutschman. Additionally, Leaf often includes cards of top prospects that have yet to debut in the majors such as Gunnar Henderson, Emerson Hancock and Druw Jones. These rookie cards are some of the most sought after chase cards in the set.

Parallels and Short Prints: Leaf is known for producing elaborate parallels and short printed cards that excite collectors. Based on past releases, the 2023 set will feature parallels like Gold /10, Silver /25, Purple /50 and more. Popular short prints like Red /75 and Blue /99 can also be expected. Low numbered parallels of star players like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. will be highly sought after by collectors looking to add premium versions to their collections.

Autograph and Memorabilia Cards: Autograph cards are where Leaf really shines and their 2023 release is sure to impress. Look for 1/1 autograph cards of the games biggest names on premium materials like leather, acetate and wood. Multi-signed cards and memorabilia combos will also be present. Relics will span from typical jersey and bat cards up to more unique items like signed bases or caps. The autograph and memorabilia selection is always a highlight of Leaf and next year’s cards will be no exception.

Exclusive Partnerships: Part of what sets Leaf apart is their ability to land exclusive partnerships and create unique cards. Past releases have seen Leaf produce MLB-licensed NFT cards as well as partner with organizations like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. For 2023, early rumors suggest Leaf may have an exclusive on-card autograph deal with an elite veteran player or rookie. Only time will tell what new ground Leaf breaks, but collectors can likely expect some innovative and exclusive content.

Production and Release: Based on prior years, the 2023 Leaf baseball cards will be released in August or September as a high-end hobby release. The set is typically produced in much lower quantities than mainstream brands to preserve its premium appeal. Case breaks, hobby boxes and loose packs can be found at major card shops and auction sites upon release. Individual cards also hit the secondary market quickly through PWCC, Goldin Auctions and eBay. Availability may be limited so collectors will want to pre-order if possible or check stock closely upon release.

Overall the 2023 Leaf baseball card set promises to deliver another high-quality and unique collecting experience for hobbyists. With their history of innovation and exclusive content, Leaf has established itself as one of the premier brands in the industry. Collectors can expect another memorable release next year full of stars, prospects, parallels and autographs that will excite the hobby for years to come. The combination of sharp photography, creative designs and limited quantities make Leaf a top chase for advanced collectors every release season.

1995 UPPER DECK MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1995 Upper Deck Minor League Baseball card set was released by Upper Deck during the summer of 1995. The set showcased many top prospects in minor league baseball during the 1994 season. It provided baseball card collectors their first major glimpse at future MLB stars that would emerge over the next several years.

The set contains 230 cards and included players from all levels of minor league baseball in 1994, from Rookie Ball all the way up to Triple-A. Some of the notable rookies and prospects featured included Nomar Garciaparra, Andruw Jones, Chipper Jones, Todd Helton, Javy López, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera. While none of those players had reached the MLB yet, they would all go on to have impressive big league careers and cement their status as some of the best players of the late 1990s and 2000s.

Upper Deck was known for producing high quality baseball card sets with excellent photography and design. The 1995 Minor League set continued this tradition with sharp, colorful photography showcasing each player in their minor league uniforms. In addition to the primary image of each player, the cards also included details on their season stats, career highlights and accomplishments to that point, and in many cases scouting reports evaluating their future MLB potential.

The set had a distinctive design with a navy blue border and block font for the player names. Photos took up most of the front of the card while allowing room for the team logo and city name at the top. The back of the cards provided plenty of background info in a easy to read format. Upper Deck thoroughly researched each player to include as many relevant details as possible to make the cards interesting for collectors.

Some of the more valuable and sought after cards featured players who went on achieve stardom in Major League Baseball. Nomar Garciaparra’s 1995 Upper Deck Minor League card is one of the most iconic from the set. Garciaparra blasted through the minors that season before debuting with the Red Sox in 1997 and winning the AL Rookie of the Year award. His card remains one of the most valuable from the 1995 edition, regularly fetching hundreds of dollars in near-mint or better condition.

Andruw Jones also has one of the premier rookies cards from the 1995 set. As an 18-year-old, Jones dominated the low minors in 1994 while playing for Class-A Macon. His card highlighted his impressive tools and five-tool talent. Jones would follow a similar path to the majors as Garciaparra, debuting in 1996 with the Atlanta Braves at age 19. He went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career primarily with the Braves, winning 10 Gold Gloves in center field. Jones’ card is also highly sought after by collectors.

Other notable expensive hits include rookie cards for Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera. While they didn’t have nearly the minor league experience or stats of players like Garciaparra or Jones, collectors recognize these three Yankees/Braves franchise icons’ 1995 Upper Deck Minor League issue as their true baseball card rookie cards since they debuted in the majors later in 1995 and 1996. Their prospect cards boast premium prices for serious collectors.

Beyond the superstars, the set provides a glimpse at hundreds of other promising minor leaguers from 1994. Players like Todd Helton, Javy López, Paul Konerko, Troy Percival, and Jason Giambi are among those who had solid MLB careers after debuting in the late 90s. Their 1995 prospect cards remain popular with fans of their respective franchises and provide a fun bonus for collectors.

The 1995 Upper Deck Minor League Baseball card set endures as one of the most significant issue in the hobby. It captured a who’s who of future MLB all-stars and Hall of Famers during their earliest professional seasons. For teams like the Braves, Yankees, and Red Sox, it functioned as a “farm system in cardboard” highlighting some of the core players that would lead those franchises to success in the late 90s and 2000s. Serious vintage baseball card collectors continue seeking out pristine copies of this historic release to add to their collections decades later.

TOP CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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Chrome baseball cards have become hugely popular with collectors in recent decades due to their shiny, retro style and increasing value. Cards manufactured with a chrome coating or made of metal stock bring back memories of the classic cardboard found in packs from the 1970s and 80s. The relatively modern innovation has spawned iconic rookie cards, rare parallels, and limited editions that continue to drive enthusiasm for the hobby.

While many consider any card with a metallic sheen to be “chrome”, the true chrome relic-style cards first emerged in the late 1990s from manufacturers like Upper Deck and Topps. These brands leveraged new printing technologies to apply thin layers of highly reflective chrome material over the traditional paper stock. The visual pop these cards achieved quickly gained fans looking to display prized pieces in a flashy new way.

As production methods advanced even further in the 2000s, bleeding-edge parallel options started packing chase value into every box and case. Refractors, spectras, negative refractors, and other “chromed” parallels offered new levels of scarcity at random for collectors to seek. Premium products like Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome became must-have annual releases sure to unearth the latest rookie phenoms.

Of course, any discussion of the cream of the chrome crop naturally centers around cards featuring some of baseball’s all-time greats. Here are some of the most iconic, valuable, and sought-after chrome cards on the hobby’s wish lists:

1999 UD Chrome Refractors #176 – Ken Griffey Jr.: Widely considered the first true “chrome” card ever made. Junior’s clean design and sparkling refractor remain hugely popular over 20 years later. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples consistently sell for over $10,000.

1998 Topps Chrome Refractor #139 – Sammy Sosa: One of the earliest highly coveted Chrome rookies and Sosa’s lone refractor issued during his record-setting 1998 home run chase. Still a Holy Grail among Cubs fans at $5,000-$7,500 graded.

2003 Topps Chrome #144 – Alex Rodriguez: As one of the last true A-Rod rookies before his move to the Yankees, this card captured him during perhaps his finest individual season with the Rangers. PSA 10s trade hands up near $3,000.

2010 Topps Chrome #90 – Buster Posey: Posey burst onto the scene winning Rookie of the Year honors and a ring with the 2010 World Champion Giants. An ultra-clean Posey rookie still demands $1,000-$2,000 even after a decade on the market.

2007 Bowman Chrome #BCP99 – Stephen Strasburg: The hype surrounding Strasburg’s debut was unmatched. Finding his true rookie chrome in a coveted PSA 10 will set you back at least $1,500 these days and counting.

2012 Topps Chrome #187 – Mike Trout: Trout’s ascension to full-fledged superstardom actually began in 2011, and his first true Topps Chrome captures him on the cusp ready to take over the league. Even “lowly” PSA 9’s are $800+.

Every year, however, brings new stars and opportunities. Recent short prints and chase cards that could become tomorrow’s museum pieces include:

2018 Topps Chrome #88 – Ronald Acuña Jr.: Arguably the finest pro debut season of all-time. Low pop PSA 10 red refractor parallels are $2,000 already.

2019 Topps Chrome Sapphire #153 – Juan Soto: Soto instantly became a fan favorite as a 19-year-old and his sapphire parallel showed his skills were no fluke. Prices are brisk around $500 in top grade already.

2020 Bowman Chrome Sapphire #BCSP-1 – Vladimir Guerrero Jr: Having backed up his hype in 2021, Guerrero’s shiniest rookie will only appreciate more as #27 continues coming into his immense power stroke.

2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Wave #151 – Wander Franco: Franco was everything advertised as the consensus top prospect and his chrome sapphire refractor captured lightening in a bottle as he proved MLB ready from day one.

While trends and technology will evolve the category further, chrome seems here to stay as one of the hobby’s most sparkly niches. Finding high-grade gems from the first years or from emerging young talents will remain a worthy pursuit for collectors seeking investment pieces with long-term mainstream and nostalgic appeal. Few card styles better blend value, fun, and memories than the shiny hit potentials found in every box of Topps or Bowman Chrome.

FREE PRINTABLE BIRTHDAY CARDS BASEBALL

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Baseball is America’s pastime and a sport deeply embedded in our culture. Not only is it a popular professional and amateur sport, but baseball themes and references have also found their way into everyday life. This love of baseball makes baseball-themed birthday cards a fun option to celebrate someone’s special day. Luckily, there are many free printable baseball birthday card designs available online that allow you to give a personalized card without spending any money.

Some key things to consider when choosing a free printable baseball birthday card include the age and interests of the recipient. For a young baseball fan just starting out, cards with cheerful illustrations of baseballs, bats, and gloves could work well. Phrases like “swing for the fences on your birthday” or “balling out on your birthday” keep the theme lighthearted. For an older child or adult baseball enthusiast, cards featuring iconic MLB team logos or players could strike the right note. Captions paying homage to their favorite player or team show you took the time to personalize the card for them.

The design and layout of the card are also important factors. Simple single-page cards are great for quick printing, but folded cards with interior messages can feel more polished. Consider the paper quality as well – thick cardstock gives a nicer presentation than plain printer paper. Don’t forget small baseball-related embellishments if possible, like googly eye stickers on the baseballs or glitter accents in team colors. These little details show extra effort and transform a basic printable into a customized baseball card they’ll enjoy receiving.

In addition to illustrations, many free printable baseball cards feature inspirational or funny captions to bring more personality to the day. Phrases pulling from classic baseball sayings like “swing for the fences on your birthday” convey a spirit of fun and adventure. For those with a great sense of humor, cards poking gentle jokes about their favorite team’s performance or legendary players could elicit a chuckle. More heartfelt messages about cherishing special memories together also work well for family or close friends. The right blend of baseball flair and personal touch makes the card feel truly meant for that specific recipient.

When searching online, reputable sites like Etsy, Doozy Cards, and Redbubble have large collections of free printable baseball birthday cards to browse through. Be sure to only download from sites you trust to avoid potential malware or copyright issues. It’s also a nice added touch to customize the card further by filling in the recipient’s name and adding a short handwritten note inside. Making selections from a variety of designs allows you to find the perfect baseball-themed card for different ages, interests, and relationships in your life.

Once you’ve chosen your free printable baseball birthday card design, downloading and getting it printed is simple. Most come asPDF or JPEG image files that can be opened on any computer. From there, print single or multiple copies depending on your needs. Cardstock from a printer or copy store ensures high quality and a long-lasting gift. For last-minute situations, apps like Adobe PDF Reader even allow you to fill out and “sign” digital versions to send instantly via email or text. No matter how they receive it, the special baseball fan in your life will appreciate this thoughtful, cost-free way to celebrate their birthday in stylish sports theme.

The popularity of baseball has given rise to countless merchandise, artworks, and other tributes celebrating America’s pastime. Free printable birthday cards allow anyone to get in on the fun by creating customized baseball greetings. With so many great designs available online, you’re sure to find the perfect option to mark someone’s birthday in baseball fashion without spending a dime. Their love of the game is what matters most, so showing you cared enough to choose a baseball theme sends the meaningful message that their special day is truly worth celebrating.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS TO BUY RIGHT NOW

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The baseball card market is as strong as ever, with certain vintage and modern rookie cards commanding enormous prices at auctions. For collectors and investors looking to get in on the action, here are some of the best baseball cards to target right now based on player performance and popularity as well as overall card supply and demand dynamics.

Sandy Koufax (1956 Topps #257 PSA 10) – An impeccable rookie card of one of the greatest left-handed pitchers of all time. Koufax’s 3 no-hitters and 4 Cy Young Awards make him a surefire Hall of Famer, and his rookie card is exceptionally scarce in high grades given how early it is. With a PSA 10 population of just 4 cards, a mint example could sell for $500,000+ at auction. Even a lower-graded copy is worth significant money relative to other older cards due to the incredibly small supply of high-quality Koufax rookies available.

Mickey Mantle (1951 Bowman #311 PSA 8) – The most famous and valuable baseball card in existence. Mantle is universally regarded as one of the all-time great switch hitters and position players, and his rookie Bowman card is considered the Holy Grail by collectors. Copies in PSA 8 condition sell for over $300,000 today due simply to the Mantle name, and the card gets exponentially more rare and valuable at higher grades. Even severely worn examples still have strong collector value for being a genuine Mantle rookie. Every serious baseball card collection needs a Mantle in some form.

Shohei Ohtani (2021 Topps Finest Negative Refractor #168 PSA 10) – As one of the first prospect cards to feature the two-way phenom that is Shohei Ohtani, his 2021 Topps Finest Negative Refractor occupies a unique status. After winning AL Rookie of the Year and MVP honors while hitting AND pitching at an elite level, Ohtani is already considered one of the best and most marketable stars in the sport. His cards have skyrocketed in price accordingly. With a current PSA 10 pop of just 20 cards, mint Ohtani rookies are some of the hottest commodities on the market right now and expected to keep gaining in demand and value for the long haul.

Mike Trout (2009 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects Superfractor #107 PSA 10) – Often referred to as the “LeBron James of baseball,” Mike Trout is inarguably the face of the sport today. His career achievements are already Hall of Fame worthy at just age 30. As Trout’s first flagship prospect card, his 2009 Bowman Superfractor generates strong collector excitement due to the parallel’s extreme rarity and iconic “S” suffix. With a pop of only 2 in the coveted PSA 10 grade, Trout Superfractors have realized auction prices over $400,000. Any Trout card from his early prospect years is a sound investment given his secure place as one of the all-time MLB greats.

Juan Soto (2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Refractor Autograph #121 PSA 10) – At just 23 years old, Juan Soto has already emerged as a true superstar slugger and one of the faces of the future in MLB. His achievements including back-to-back Silver Slugger Awards and All-Star appearances have showcased his rare power and batting eye combination at such a young age. Soto’s earliest prospect autos capture this early stardom in pristine form. The 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Refractor Autograph is his firstBowman refractor auto and iconic Bowman Chrome issue. With a current pop of 4 PSA 10s, Soto’s elite grade examples could be worth over $150,000 now and expected to appreciate considerably longer term.

Albert Pujols (2001 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks #255 PSA 10) – As one of the most prolific and accomplished power hitters of all time, Albert Pujols’ Hall of Fame case is airtight and helped carry the Cardinals to two World Series championships early in his career. Collectors recognize Pujols as an all-time great slugger and his early Bowman Chrome era cards command top dollar. High-graded versions of his 2001 Bowman Chrome Draft Pick refractor parallel are scarce at a current pop of 8 PSA 10s. With Pujols’ retirement looming, demand for his legendary rookie cards will likely remain robust for years to come.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (2019 Topps Chrome Prospect Autograph Green Refractor #141 PSA 10) – Tatis burst onto the MLB scene in 2019 and cemented his superstar status with a monster 2021 campaign and MVP caliber season at just 22 years old. With highlight-reel plays, a flashy style, and 80-grade talents both at the plate and in the field, Tatis has become MLB’s next emerging face. Combine this with the hype surrounding his rookie cards from 2019 Topps Chrome and Bowman offerings, and Tatis green auto refractors have seen values increase exponentially over the past year. With a pop around 12 in PSA 10 currently, these ultra-rare Tatis rookie autos could sell for $150,000+ soon and only stand to become more valuable as his career progresses.

Jacob DeGrom (2010 Bowman Chrome Prospect Autograph #185 PSA 10) – Jacob deGrom was a late bloomer who wasn’t highly touted as a prospect but has since established himself as arguably the best pitcher in baseball over the last few years, winning two Cy Young awards and leading the NL in ERA four times. As one of the scarcer DeGrom prospect autos from his 2010 Bowman Chrome issue, copies have gained tremendous cachet with collectors recognizing his all-time great pitching talent and relative scarcity at the prospect level. The population remains paltry at 6 PSA 10s, making this one of the rarest modern star autos on the market and valued well over $100,000 for 10ths. With DeGrom still in his prime and chasing dominance, the card’s high-end value will likely increase.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018 Topps Gallery #156 PSA 10) – Ronald Acuña Jr. emerged as one of baseball’s brightest young stars from 2018-2021 before a season-ending knee injury in 2021. Prior to injury, he broke out with a .283 average, 35 home runs, and 37 stolen bases in 2019 at just age 21. That type of five-tool potential and early production helped raise the values of Acuña’s 2018 rookie cards exponentially, making this 2018 Topps Gallery parallel a top short print of his rookie year. With a scarce population of only 8 PSA 10s, an elite gem mint example could sell for over $150,000 in the current market due to Acuña’s phenomenal potential and star-caliber play pre-injury. He will have plenty of time to get back to top form and boost values even higher.

While vintage stars remain blue-chip holdings, these modern rookies and prospects represent some of the most enticing baseball card investments available right now based on underlying player performance and scarcity metrics. Collectors would do well to target high-grade copies of the above cards before they appreciate further in the years ahead alongside their respective stars’ careers. With careful selection and patience, these baseball treasures are poised to generate strong long-term returns for savvy collectors.

1980 BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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The 1980 baseball card market ushered in a new era for the hobby. The decade of the 1980s brought technology advances and new players to get excited about. While the 1980 set is not considered the most valuable by collectors, there are certainly cards from that year that hold value. Let’s take a deeper look at some 1980 baseball cards that could fetch a pretty penny on the secondary market if found in pristine condition.

Ozzie Smith Rookie Card (1980 Donruss #132)

Widely considered one of the best defensive shortstops of all-time, Ozzie Smith burst onto the baseball scene in 1978 with the San Diego Padres. By 1980, “The Wizard” was the Padres’ starting shortstop and recognized as one of the most exciting young players in baseball. His 1980 Donruss rookie card is one of the key rookie cards from that season to have. In a Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) grade, Ozzie Smith’s rookie card can sell for around $200-300. In pristine Mint (MT) or Gem Mint (GEM MT) condition, examples have sold for over $500. Considering how good of a defensive player Smith became known for, it’s no surprise his rookie is highly sought after.

Nolan Ryan (1980 Topps Traded #T79 and 1980 Donruss #235)

By 1980, Nolan Ryan was already well on his way to etching his name in MLB history books. Ryan was still with the California Angels at this point and throwing 100+ mph heaters on a regular basis. Two of his key 1980 cards feature an action photo of him pitching for the Angels – the 1980 Topps Traded card and parallel 1980 Donruss issue. Both cards are relatively scarce compared to his base mainstream rookies. Higher graded copies in the 8-9 range can command $100-200 each. An absolutely pristine Ryan card in MT-GEM MT condition from either of these sets could reach $500+ due to his legendary pitching status.

Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie Card (1980 Fleer #124)

Sometimes overlooked since Cal Ripken Jr. hadn’t quite broken out as a superstar yet, his 1980 Fleer rookie is still a very desirable early card of “The Iron Man.” Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record and earn enshrinement in the Hall of Fame. While not as valuable as his more iconic later issues, Ripken’s 1980 Fleer RC holds value due to his achieving such baseball immortality. NM/MT examples sell in the $50-100 range. GEM MT copies are approaching $200-300 prices. With Ripken’s status, this card has plenty of room to appreciate over time.

Dave Winfield (1980 Topps #480)

already a force in the MLB by 1980, Winfield’s big bat made him a feared power hitter for the San Diego Padres. His iconic 1980 Topps card shows him wearing Padres’ pinstripes with a sweet left-handed swing. This card was produced during Winfield’s first All-Star season and before his World Series championship years with the Blue Jays and Yankees. Despite being a fairly common issue, higher graded versions around the 8-9 range still seem to sell for $50-100 each. A true gem mint example could possibly get up over $200. Winfield remains one of the game’s most consistent players, lending value to his early cardboard.

George Brett Rookie Card (1980 Topps #500)

One of the greatest third basemen and pure hitters in MLB history, George Brett terrorized pitchers across three decades with the Kansas City Royals. His iconic 1980 Topps rookie card is highly coveted by collectors. In well-centered, sharp NM/MT condition, examples can sell between $100-200 today. The prices quickly jump from there depending on precise centering and sharpness of corners – a true GEM MT Brett RC could conceivably reach $500 or more. With Brett’s plaque now in Cooperstown, interest in his earliest traded cards, including this 1980 flagship rookie, shows no signs of waning.

Nolan Ryan 3000K Variation (1980 Topps #461)

A true oddball gem from the 1980 Topps set, card #461 exists in two distinct versions – a standard “pitching” photo of Nolan Ryan or an ultra-rare “3000K” photo variation mark his milestone strikeout record. While the base version holds value on its own, the 3000K photo variation is among the true spectacular hits from the year. Only a handful are believed to exist in high grades. Prices depend heavily on condition, but examples in Mint+ range have sold for over $10,000. Even well-centered NM/MT copies can bring $4,000+. This is quite simply one of the most valuable 1980 cards period due to its true historical significance marking Ryan’s achievement.

Cal Ripken Sr. (1980 Topps #500)

While not as a household of a name as his son, Cal Ripken Sr. enjoyed a long MLB career as an infielder and manager. His 1980 Topps card is significant for being the parallel issue to George Brett’s far more famous rookie card in the same slot. The cards were likely produced this way to associate the two up-and-coming young talents in the leagues. Ripken Sr.’s issue doesn’t command huge prices, but remains a fun and affordable parallel card for fans of Cal Jr. Higher graded versions in the 8-9 range seem to sell around $20-40 each online.

Steve Carlton (1980 Topps Traded #T59)

A legendary lefty who won 4 Cy Young awards across his illustrious career, Steve Carlton was still tearing it up for the Phillies in 1980 when Topps produced this “Traded” photo variation of him. Carlton had posted another 20-win season the prior year. While not quite as iconic as his 1972 MVP card, the 1980 Topps Traded issue holds value for representing “Lefty” during his Philadelphia peak years before moving teams. Higher graded versions around NM/MT can sell in the $50-100 range depending on centering quality. Well-centered gem mint copies could reach up to $200.

Dave Parker (1980 Donruss #271)

Known as “Cobra” for his slick fielding skills around the first base bag, Dave Parker was coming off an MVP season in 1978 with the Pirates when this action shot rookie card was produced by Donruss. Parker went on to have a decorated career winning two World Series titles. While not his true rookie issue, collectors value this early Donruss offering. In vivid NM/MT condition examples can sell between $30-70 online. The price increases sharply for pristinely centered gem mint 10 grade samples touching $150 or more. Parker remains a very playable early star from the vintage era.

Kittredge Trading Card Variations

One of the oddball gems that can turn up from the 1980 season come from a small regional brand called Kittredge that produced sets for parts of New England. Several stars have photo variations between the standard issue and a rarer “action” alternative image. Most notable are Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Dave Parker cards that have counterparts showing them in gameplay situations. Even lower end condition variations can fetch $50-100 duesimply to their unusual nature contrasting the Topps and Donruss mainstream releases of the time. Pristine mint copies have reached even higher prices.

Overall the 1980 season carved out many future Hall of Famers early in their careers. While not all their rookie cards are considered true gems, there remain pockets of value for conditionally sharp examples showing stars before they reached legendary status like Ripken, Brett, Ryan, and Parker. Oddball issues and key variations only add to the intrigue of sets from this transition year between the 1970s and 1980s in the hobby. With increased focus on vintage material, quality 1980s cardsprofiled here are sure to hold and possibly increase in worth over the long haul for savvy collectors and investors.

2021 BOWMAN STERLING BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Bowman Sterling baseball card set is a highly anticipated release each year from Topps that targets collectors looking for premium rookie cards and prospect autographs. Featuring prospects from all 30 MLB teams, Bowman Sterling continues to unearth the next generation of baseball stars. With its elegant design featuring subtle pinstripes on a silver foil background, each card exudes luxury. Let’s take a deeper look at what collectors can expect from the 2021 Bowman Sterling baseball release.

Bowman Sterling has established itself as the pinnacle product for Bowman releases, layered with high-end parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards of baseball’s top prospects. The base set includes 250 cards featuring prospects, stars, and MLB team logos. Ranging in number from #BSC1 to #BSC250, each base card is adorned with silver foil backgrounds and subtle pinstripes adding an elegant premium feel. Top prospect autographs and memorabilia cards are sprinkled throughout the set at a very low print run, making prime rookies extraordinarily difficult to pull.

Parallels are what truly separate Bowman Sterling as the creme de la creme of baseball cards. Refractors, color parallels, dual autographs and 1/1 autographed patches exponentially drive up the value and attractiveness for assembling a complete parallel set. With parallels like Gold (/50), Blue (/75), Green (/99), Orange (/150) and Purple (/175), collectors can spend a lifetime trying to track down all the parallel permutations. Ultra-premium parallels like Black Refractors (/10) and Platinum Autographs (1/1) command prices well into the thousands of dollars for rookies of star players. The elusive rainbow parallel set is the holy grail for even the most well-heeled collectors.

Top prospects and future stars like Wander Franco, Jarred Kelenic, Adley Rutschman and Spencer Torkelson headline the checklist. Due to their star potential and the low print runs, any cards featuring these top talents are destined to become tremendously valuable with even modest MLB success. Part of the magic of Bowman Sterling is uncovering the next superstar who might currently be flying under the radar. Sleeper prospects who defy the odds and blossom into all-stars can make unassuming base rookies worth substantially more in just a few short years.

Topps employs stringent quality control processes to ensure each Bowman Sterling card meets the highest standards. Cards utilize premium silver foil with engraved pinstripes requiring exacting precision cutting and application. Autographs are painstakingly affixed to provide a clean and visually appealing signature without overlaps or globs of ink. Higher-end parallels like Gold Refractors receive additional focusing and centering scrutiny. The resulting product feels like a work of fine art in the hands of collectors.

While base cards can be found in hobby boxes retailing around $100-150, sought-after autographed and memorabilia cards are exclusively distributed through highly allocated case breaks. Only the most dedicated and accomplished breakers are allocated these ultra-premium and uber-expensive case-level products. Individual boxes containing guaranteed autographs can sell for thousands, with the priciest 1/1 cards reaching astronomical values. Even team-or-player specific breakers must pre-sell all their spots for releases of this caliber.

The 2021 Bowman Sterling baseball release is poised to continue captivating the hobby with its focus on exclusive prospects, rookie talent and craftsmanship. Modern day stars like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. all had memorable Sterling rookie cards that now hold tremendous collectable value. With impeccable design and low print runs on its premier hits, Bowman Sterling allows collectors to get in on the ground floor with the next generation of MLB elite. Whether chasing parallels, autographed rookies or hunting for that next superstar sleeper, Sterling provides a premium and ritzy collection experience like no other in the hobby.

VALUE OF 1990 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Topps Baseball card set is considered one of the classic and highly collectible issues from the late 1980s and early 1990s. With 792 total cards issued, the 1990 Topps set featured every major league player and all managers and coaches. While the set initially did not command huge prices upon release, over the past 30 years appreciation has grown significantly for select rookie cards and star players from the set. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key cards that have outstanding value from the 1990 Topps baseball card series.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1990 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the top rookie cards of all-time, Griffey’s impressive 22-year career and status as a true five-tool superstar has made his 1990 Topps RC incredibly sought after. In pristine Mint condition, a 1990 Griffey rookie currently commands prices upwards of $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can bring $3,000-$5,000. The Griffey rookie is the undisputed crown jewel of the set and one of the iconic cards from the junk wax era of the late 1980s/early 1990s.

Another hugely valuable rookie card from 1990 Topps is Felix Hernandez. Known as “King Felix”, Hernandez went on to become a six-time All-Star and won the 2010 AL Cy Young Award with the Seattle Mariners. His career isn’t over yet either. Mint condition Hernandez rookies have sold for over $1,000 in recent years. The Frank Thomas rookie is also highly regarded, with top-graded PSA 10 specimens reaching $800-$1,000. Randy Johnson, who would become a future Hall of Famer and five-time Cy Young winner, has an equally sought after inaugural card valued at $300-$500 price in top condition.

In additions to star rookies, select hall of famers and franchise icons from the 1990 Topps set command big numbers as well. A Mint condition Ken Griffey Sr. card, the father of “Junior”, has sold for $900 due to Griffey Sr.’s long, productive career and his role in raising one of the game’s all-time great players. Similarly, Cal Ripken Jr.’s 1990 issue that depicts him at the peak of his consecutive games played streak has reached $600 for pristine copies. Ripken’s iconic status and career achievements with the Baltimore Orioles make his 1990 Topps card a must-have for Ripken collectors.

Turning to star pitchers, Nolan Ryan’s 1990 Topps card is among the set’s most valuable veterans cards. As one of the most prolific strikeout pitchers in history, Ryan was still pitching effectively in 1990 at age 43, before retiring after the 1993 season. His 1990 Topps continues to rise in price, with a recent mint condition sale reaching $450. Orel Hershiser’s 1989 issue is nearly as coveted, capturing “Bulldog” at the peak of his powers after winning both the Cy Young and World Series MVP award just a year prior. Nearly flawless Hershiser ’90s have crossed the $400 mark in today’s market.

Besides standout rookies and stars, the 1990 Topps set also contains several scarce “short printed” parallel cards with increased values. Examples include SP versions of Darren Daulton (SP value $100), John Kruk (SP $75), Dennis Martinez (SP $50), and Steve Bedrosian (SP $30-40), which are considerably rarer in high grades than the standard base issue due to lower print runs. For error and variation card collectors, 1990 Topps also includes dye-cut and cut autograph errors that can reach into the hundreds of dollars depending on the player and condition rarity.

While 1990 Topps baseball cards began the junk wax era decline, the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr. and stars like Frank Thomas have truly stood the test of time. Combined with the accomplishments of players like Ken Griffey Sr., Cal Ripken Jr., Nolan Ryan and Orel Hershiser, the 1990 Topps set harbors significant vintage cardboard that remains a hot commodity for collectors over 30 years later. For the crown jewels in pristine condition, six-figure price tags may not be out of reach someday for select 1990 Topps rookies and stars.