BASEBALL CARDS ATLANTA

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Baseball cards have been a beloved part of American culture for over a century, chronicling the histories and stars of our national pastime. In Atlanta, baseball cards have a rich history of their own, inextricably linked to the growth of the sport in the city.

Some of the earliest baseball cards produced came out in the late 1800s from companies like Old Judge and Goodwin Champions. By the early 1900s, tobacco companies like American Tobacco and American Caramel started inserting baseball cards in cigarette and candy packs as a marketing gimmick. These tobacco-era cards from the early 1900s would have been collected by some of the earliest baseball fans in Atlanta.

While Atlanta did not get its first major league team until the Braves arrived in 1966, the city had a vibrant minor league scene dating back to the 1890s. Teams like the Atlanta Crackers of the Southern Association were beloved icons of the early 20th century. Kids in Atlanta would have collected and traded cards of Crackers players alongside stars from other major and minor league teams.

In the post-World War II era, Atlanta saw an explosion of interest in baseball cards as the modern hobby began to take shape. Iconic 1950s and 60s sets like Topps, Fleer, and Bowman featured the likes of Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and more. Kids in Atlanta spent hot summer days collecting, organizing, and trading these colorful cardboard treasures, dreaming of one day seeing their heroes play in person at Ponce de Leon Park, former home of the Crackers.

When the Braves finally arrived in Atlanta in 1966, it kicked the city’s baseball card collecting scene into high gear. Local card shops and hobby stores sprang up to meet growing demand. Kids rushed to find cards of their new Braves stars like Hank Aaron, Dusty Baker, and Phil Niekro. The 1969 Topps card of Hank Aaron right after he broke Babe Ruth’s home run record is one of the most coveted Atlanta-related cards.

In the 1970s, the rise of sports specialty shops and card shows transformed the hobby. Stores like Great American Hobby Shop in Chamblee became destinations for collectors. Shows at the Omni and other venues drew crowds of thousands. Atlanta became a hotbed for collecting, trading, and speculation on the rapidly increasing values of vintage and rookie cards. The era of big-name rookies like Dale Murphy in the late 1970s only added to the frenzy.

In the 1980s and 90s, Atlanta saw the hobby boom to new heights. Stores like Great American, A-1 Sportscards, and others did a booming business in packs, boxes, and singles from the junk wax era. The Braves’ World Series wins in 1995 and Hank Aaron’s induction into the Hall of Fame in 1982 kept the city’s interest in its baseball history alive. Atlanta also became a hub for the growing memorabilia market, with autographed balls and jerseys joining the ranks of desired collectibles.

Today, Atlanta’s baseball card scene remains vibrant. While the internet has shifted some sales online, local stores like AllStar Memorabilia and shows like the Atlanta Sports Collectibles Show keep the trading floor thriving. Braves stars like Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, and Freddie Freeman have spawned new generations of Atlanta collectors. Online groups help fans trade, sell and stay up to date. And museums like the Braves Hall of Fame preserve the city’s rich card collecting history for years to come.

Through wars and depressions, hot streaks and losing seasons, Atlanta’s love for its baseball cards has endured. Cards serve as portals to the past, connecting generations of fans to the heroes who made summer afternoons at the ballpark pure magic. Wherever the Braves may roam, Atlanta’s baseball card legacy is sure to continue on into the future.

58 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1958 Topps baseball card set was the sixth series of baseball cards produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc. and featured all 16 major league teams from that season. The set totaled 524 cards and was notable for several reasons. It marked the first time Topps included all players from the American and National Leagues, it featured the debut of several future Hall of Famers, and it contained some iconic cards that are highly sought after by collectors today.

Some key details and highlights about the 1958 Topps set include:

Size and Scope: At 524 total cards, it was the largest Topps set to that point and first to include every MLB player. Prior years had left some players out. Roster sets became the norm going forward.

Design: The design featured a color team logo at top with the team name below in script. The player’s photo took up much of the remaining space with stats along the bottom. It was a clean, straightforward look.

Rookies: Future Hall of Famers making their Topps debut included Hank Aaron, Willie McCovey, Bob Gibson, and Billy Williams among others. Their rookie cards are highly valuable today.

Short Prints: Certain cards were printed in lower quantities, making them rarer. The most famous is the Mickey Mantle card (#253), which has a print run estimated at only 125 copies, making it the most coveted card in the set.

Errors: A few errors slipped through, such as Jim Piersall’s photo appearing on the back of card #130. These anomalies increase collectibility.

Condition Issues: The paper stock was of lower quality than previous years and the cards had a tendency to fade, crease or wrinkle easily over time if not taken care of properly.

Design Changes: Later in the printing process, the team logo was removed from some cards, creating a “no logo” variation. Also, a small percentage had the player’s first initial added to the front.

Prominence of the Yankees: As the dynasty of the late 1950s, the Yankees dominated the high-number cards towards the end of the set. Many of their stars like Mantle, Berra, Ford and Skowron hold value.

Iconic Moments: Many of the photos captured players in the act of batting, throwing or fielding and froze iconic stances that are still recognizable today, like Mays’ over-the-shoulder catch photo.

In terms of individual cards that stand out, here are some of the most notable from the 1958 Topps set:

#1 – Harvey Haddix (Cardinals P): As the first card in the set, it holds tradition value for collectors. Haddix’ photo shows him mid-windup.

#71 – Hank Aaron (Braves RF): Aaron’s rookie card captured him at the peak of his powerful swing. It’s one of the most significant rookie cards in the hobby.

#130 – Jim Piersall (Red Sox OF): The error card with Piersall’s photo on the back is a true oddball collectible.

#144 – Willie Mays (Giants CF): Mays’ iconic over-the-shoulder catch pose is recreated on his card and remains one of the set’s most identifiable images.

#181 – Bob Gibson (Cards P): Gibson’s rookie card portrays him in the stretch position on the mound and is widely considered one of the best baseball cards of all time due to its clarity and composition.

#253 – Mickey Mantle (Yankees CF): The ultra-rare “short print” Mantle with an estimate print run of around 125 copies is the crown jewel card of the set.

#341 – Ted Williams (Red Sox LF): “Teddy Ballgame’s” intense batting stance photograph makes for a memorable visual on this card near the end of the set.

#345 – Warren Spahn (Braves P): Spahn’s card shows him in a follow-through windup and is the last card in the set’s original run before high-numbers were added later.

In the over 60 years since its release, the 1958 Topps set has grown tremendously in popularity and significance among collectors. Pristine, high-grade examples of the top rookie and star cards can fetch six-figure prices or more at auction nowadays. Its blend of iconic photography, rookie debuts of legends, and memorable errors/variations make it one of the most collected vintage issues in the hobby. The 1958 Topps cards captured a snapshot of baseball in that era that still resonates powerfully with fans today.

SELL OLD BASEBALL CARDS ONLINE

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Selling Vintage Baseball Cards Online: A Complete Guide

Do you have boxes of old baseball cards collecting dust in your attic or garage? If those cards are from the 1970s or earlier, you could potentially make some decent money by selling them online. The vintage baseball card market remains strong, with certain rare and valuable cards still fetching thousands of dollars at auction.

Successfully selling old baseball cards online takes more than just listing them for sale on eBay. You’ll need to do some research to determine which cards are actually worth something. You’ll also need to photograph and describe your cards properly so buyers understand what they’re getting. And you’ll need to know how to package and ship the cards safely.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get the best possible return on your baseball card collection by selling online, including:

Determining the value of your cards through research and checklists
Photographing and listing your cards for maximum visibility and sales
Packaging cards securely for shipping
Top online selling platforms for vintage baseball cards
Tips for describing cards accurately and avoiding red flags for buyers
Maximizing your profits through Bundle deals, auctions, and negotiated sales
Safely storing and protecting your collection until it’s sold

Let’s get started!

Determining Card Values Through Research

The first step is figuring out which of your old baseball cards are actually worth something. Most common cards from the junk wax era of the 1980s-90s have little to no value. You’ll want to focus your efforts on cards issued from the 1950s through the 1970s, when production runs were smaller.

Do some online research to familiarize yourself with key players, sets, and valuable traits that increase a card’s worth. Here are some valuation resources:

Check online price guides from websites like Beckett, Sports Card Price Guide, and eBay’s Completed Listings to get a ballpark value for each card.

Download checklists to identify card issues, sets, and specific serial numbers that may make a card rare or valuable.

Look up similar cards recently sold on eBay to see current market prices. Make note of graded vs. ungraded values.

Join vintage baseball card forums and Facebook groups to ask veteran collectors’ opinions on valuations and potential demand.

Photographing Cards For Online Sales

It’s imperative that your card photos fully convey each item’s condition and key details. Poor or inaccurate photos can cost sales. Here are tips for photographing:

Shoot cards laid flat on a clean, solid-colored background (white or grey works best). No glare or reflections.

Take multiple photos of each card – front, back, close-ups of defects or autograph authentications if needed.

Use good lighting for clarity. Natural light is ideal. Avoid shadows and dark corners.

Photograph cards exactly as they appear – zoom in on any flaws, creases, stains or wear clearly. No surprises!

Number each photo file to match descriptions for easy identification.

Listing Your Cards For Sale

Once photographed, it’s time to create detailed listings for your baseball cards on platforms like eBay, COMC, or through vintage card shops and auction sites. Consider the following:

List singular high-value cards individually and bundles inexpensive cards in group lots.

Provide clear photos and accurate grade/condition assessments in descriptions.

Research reasonable starting bid/buy-it-now pricing based on comps. Price fairly but allow room for bidding.

Offer calculated shipping costs and accept payment through secure payment processor.

Respond promptly to any buyer questions. Communication builds trust.

Cross-post desirable cards across multiple marketplaces to maximize exposure.

Packaging Cards For Safe Transport

Now the cards need to be packaged securely for shipping. Here are tips:

Place each card in a penny sleeve protector and then top-load each into rigid plastic or paper card holders.

For multiple cards, use a semi-rigid cardboard or plastic card storage box. Surround cards with acid-free paper or bubble wrap.

Package boxes or bundles between sturdy cardboard to prevent bending. Consider double-boxing and bulk filler like air bags.

Use bubble mailers or cardboard boxes and seal well with clear packing tape, not duct or electrical tape which can damage cards.

Clearly label packages and include your return address.

Consider registered shipping for high-value items requiring signature. Basic tracking is fine for less valuable cards.

Top Online Marketplaces For Vintage Cards

The biggest online platforms for selling vintage baseball cards include:

eBay – Widest buyer base and easiest platform to list on but charges insertion and final value fees.

COMC (Card Collector & Sports Collectibles) – Focused vintage sports marketplace with lower fees than eBay. Grading submission service.

Heritage Auctions – Reputable auction house that brings top dollar but requires consignment process and fees.

Classic auctions – Popular with collectors, charges monthly membership and commission rates.

Facebook Vintage Groups – Chance to get cards in hands of eager collectors at lower marketplace fees.

Describing Cards Accurately for Buyers

To give buyers confidence, list clear details on:

Player, team, card issue year
Overall condition rated on standard scales (near mint, excellent, very good, etc.)
Centering, corners, edges – describe any flaws
Authenticity issues worth noting
Case (graded, ungraded protective holder, loose, etc.)
Bundle contents if applicable

Avoid vague terms like “vintage” that don’t clarify age or condition issues. Photos should illustrate all discussion points. Honestly conveying condition is key to building trust.

Maximizing Profits

Some strategies for making the most money on card sales:

Bundle group lots by theme, set, or player to move common inexpensive cards and add more items to your overall sales value.

Watch similar “Compare to Sold” listings and reprice if your asking amount doesn’t seem competitive for that card’s condition.

Promote desirable individual cards on social media to drum up bidding during online auctions.

Contact card shops about consignment options to leverage their collector networks. Usually get better rates than marketplaces.

Be open to reasonable offers buyers make directly. Negotiation can result in quicker sales at good prices.

Protecting Your Collection Before Sale

To maintain card quality until they find new homes:

Store cards in acid-free boxes, binders or removable sleeves inside climate-controlled areas away from direct light.

Safeguard high-end cards, especially graded examples, in fireproof home security boxes or bank safe deposit boxes.

Inventory your collection and photograph expensive/rare pieces so any damage or theft can be reported.

With patience, diligent research and marketing on your cards, you have a good chance of making decent returns from your vintage baseball card collection by selling online to eager collectors. Following the best practices here should help maximize your profits. Good luck!

BASEBALL BOX SCORE CARDS

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Baseball box score cards have been an essential part of the game of baseball since the late 1800s. These cards provide a record of what happened in a baseball game by listing key statistics and information for each team and player. While the modern box score has evolved over the decades, the basic principles and purpose remain the same – to concisely summarize the outcomes and performances from a baseball game.

Some of the earliest known box scores date back to the 1870s when newspapers first began regularly reporting on baseball games. These early box scores were quite basic, often just listing the final score and sometimes individual batting records. They established the foundational structure for how baseball games would be documented statistically. By the late 1800s, box scores had expanded to include more detailed statistics like hits, runs, errors, strikeouts and pitching records for each team and player.

A standard baseball box score is typically organized with statistics for both the home and visiting teams listed side by side. At the top will be identifying information such as the date, location of the game, and the teams playing. Below this the box score is divided into two halves, one for each team. Basic summary stats are listed first which include the final score, number of hits, errors, left on base, strikeouts and sometimes other aggregate stats.

Below the team summary stats are individual batting records. Players are usually listed from left to right based on their spot in the batting order. For each batter their at-bats (AB), runs (R), hits (H), runs batted in (RBI), walks (BB) and strikeouts (K) are documented. Additional stats may be included as well, such as doubles (2B), triples (3B) and home runs (HR). These batting lines allow viewers to see how each player contributed offensively.

The bottom section details the pitching stats. Starters and relievers are usually listed in order of appearance. Pitching lines include innings pitched (IP), hits allowed (H), runs allowed (R), earned runs (ER), walks (BB) and strikeouts (K). Pitchers are also credited with any wins (W) or losses (L) and sometimes saves (SV) or holds. This provides a full picture of how each pitcher performed.

Over time, box scores have expanded to include more advanced stats. Detailed fielding records showing putouts and assists for each position player were gradually incorporated. Additional pitching metrics like earned run average (ERA) and batting stats like on-base percentage also found their way into box scores. Modern box scores may even list advanced analytics like wins above replacement (WAR) for notable players.

The standard 9-column box score format established in the early 20th century remains the most commonly used layout today. Some publications experimented with different box score designs over the years. In the 1990s, USA Today debuted a graphic-heavy “box graph” format that visualized stats through bar graphs and charts. Other variations included splitting teams onto separate pages or reorganizing stats by individual categories rather than teams.

Box scores continued to evolve with technology. In the late 20th century, the advent of digital publishing allowed for interactive online box scores. Fans could sort and filter stats in customizable ways. Live box scores during games also became possible, dynamically updating in real-time. Today, comprehensive box scores containing traditional and advanced metrics are readily available online from major sports data providers.

For over a century, baseball box score cards have served as the primary statistical record of games. They provide a concise yet detailed snapshot of team and individual performances. While the digital age has changed how box scores are accessed and analyzed, their fundamental purpose of documenting baseball’s results remains the same. Box scores continue to be appreciated by historians, analysts, and fans seeking to understand and reminisce about the rich statistical history of America’s pastime.

MOST VALUABLE 1960S TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1960s was a revolutionary time in American culture and society, from the civil rights movement to the Vietnam War protests. It was also a transformative decade for the baseball card industry, as Topps secured the exclusive license to produce cards featuring MLB players beginning in 1956. In the ensuing decade, Topps released numerous iconic card designs and rookie cards that have become highly coveted by collectors. Several 1960s Topps issues consistently rank among the most valuable cards ever produced.

The most expensive 1960s Topps card is the 1968 Topps Mickey Mantle (#311) in gem mint condition. Mantle was already an established Yankees legend and five-time World Series champion by 1968, his final MLB season. The ‘68 Topps Mantle perfectly captured the iconic “Mick” in the twilight of his Hall of Fame career. Only a few PSA/BGS 10 examples are known to exist, with auction prices often exceeding $100,000. The card’s rarity, subject, and historical significance as documenting Mantle’s farewell season make it the costliest from the 1960s set.

Another perennially pricey ‘60s Topps issue features an iconic rookie, the 1957 Topps (#284) Frank Robinson. Debuting a few months prior for the Cincinnati Reds, Robinson went on to win the 1957 Rookie of the Year award and capture the Triple Crown in 1966. High-grade versions regularly top $50,000 at auction. Like the ‘68 Mantle, the scarcity of true mint PSA/BGS 10 examples keeps the Robinson rookie among the most valuable 1960s Topps cards.

Staying with rookies, the 1961 Topps Willie Mays (#579) also ranks among the 1960s Topps cards that can fetch five figures. Mays was already a two-time MVP by 1961 with the San Francisco Giants but remains one of the most beloved players in baseball history. His rookie card in pristine condition is a blue-chip collectible, with PSA 10s bringing as much as $45,000. Mays’ talent, popularity, and the vast success of his career over two decades amplifies interest in his first Topps issue.

Another powerful rookie card prospect from the 1960s is the 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson (#468). Drafted first overall by the Kansas City (now Oakland) A’s in 1966, “Mr. October” exploded onto the MLB scene in 1968. By the following season, he was printed on cardboard as one of the most hyped young sluggers in baseball. High-grade 1969 Jackson rookies consistently exceed $30,000 at auction. His elite talent and fame as a clutch postseason slugger for the A’s and New York Yankees elevate the ‘69 Topps card to iconic status.

While the previously mentioned cards focus on individual superstars, one 1960s Topps issue stands out for documenting a singular historic achievement – the 1968 Topps #350 Denny McLain. In 1931, McLain became the first pitcher since 1934 to win 30+ games in a season for the Detroit Tigers. His accomplishment was truly one for the ages, and the accompanying ‘68 Topps card is quite rare in pristine condition. Graded examples in Gem Mint 10 can reach $20-30,000 today. McLain’s feat has not been equaled since, giving significant historical impact to his uniquely valuable 1968 issue.

Rounding out the consistently most valuable 1960s Topps cards are a trio of rookie issues from 1966. The #550 Roberto Clemente documents the first Topps appearance of the Pittsburgh Pirate legend, his 12th MLB season. High-grade Clemente rookies trade hands for $15-20,000. Meanwhile, the ‘66 Topps #521 Tom Seaver rookie, highlighting baseball’s first true “Franchise Player” for the New York Mets, reaches the five-figure range as well. Lastly, the #558 Reggie Jackson 1966 rookie, from his first full season with the A’s, remains a premier rookie card across all of the 1960s Topps series due to Jackson’s lore.

The most expensive 1960s Topps cards usually center around legendary players like Mantle, Mays and Clemente, iconic rookie issues from Hall of Famers Robinson, Seaver and Jackson, or singular historic achievements captured on cardboard such as McLain’s 30-win season. Condition is paramount, as pristine examples in PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 grab the highest prices. But these select 1960s cards hold special places in the hearts of collectors for their links to baseball’s storied past. They stand as timeless slices of vintage cardboard nostalgia.

1986 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Fleer baseball card set was a landmark release that broke the stranglehold Topps had held on the baseball card market for decades. Issued during a pivotal time in the collector’s market, the ’86 Fleer set helped usher in the modern era of baseball cards and introduced innovations that are still used today.

Up until the early 1980s, Topps had enjoyed a virtual monopoly on baseball cards, producing the only widely distributed cards each year under agreements with MLB and the players association. In 1980 the US Supreme Court ruled that sports leagues could no longer grant exclusive licenses, opening the door for competitors to enter the market. Fleer seized this opportunity and in 1981 began producing its own line of baseball cards to challenge Topps.

The early Fleer sets in 1981-1985 were modest in size, featuring onlyabout 300 cards each compared to the much larger Topps releases. They also suffered from production quality and licensing issues that limited their appeal. But Fleer saw potential and was determined to establish itself as a serious competitor. For 1986, Fleer rolled out an ambitious redesign that fundamentally changed the baseball card marketplace.

The 1986 Fleer set was the company’s most extensive to date at 396 total cards. What made it truly groundbreaking, though, was Fleer’s deal to sign an agreement with the players association granting them photo and licensing rights equal to Topps for the first time. Prior Fleer issues had to settle for artist drawings or photos from outside sources when Topps owned the official game pix. Now Fleer could feature crisp, colorful action shots straight from the diamond on every card.

Having the authenticated player images was a huge boost in legitimacy and collectability. But Fleer didn’t stop there. In a shrewd marketing move, they decided to distribute the cards in wax-sealed packs just like Topps, rather than the loose paper packs of earlier Fleer releases. This mimicked the nostalgic experience baseball card collectors knew and further connected Fleer products to the hobby mainstream.

The ’86 set also employed revolutionary card stock and coating technology. The thinner cardboard stock allowed for more cards per pack while maintaining rigidity. A slick laminate finish protected the photos and statistics and resulted in a noticeably sharper, glossier look versus the duller, pulpier Topps cards of the time. These pioneering physical attributes set the precedent that is still used by card companies today.

On the content side, Fleer added several unique card types that had never been seen before. Superstar Spotlights highlighted the biggest names in the game with oversized headshots and gaudy borders. All-Star Stamps could be collected and affixed to an insert page to complete full All-Star rosters. And Traded inserts tracked midseason trades, presenting players in their new uniforms.

The ’86 Fleer set achieved instant popularity and commercial success, selling out its initial production run. It proved there was plenty of room in the market for multiple card companies to thrive. The competition forced Topps to step up their offerings as well. Perhaps most importantly, the ’86 Fleer cards have endured as one of the most historic issues in the hobby due to the innovations and precedents they established.

While subsequent Fleer releases had their ups and downs, the 1986 edition ensured the company’s future in the business and cemented their place alongside Topps as one of the big two card manufacturers. They helped open the collector’s market to new possibilities. The photography, wrappers, and supplemental inserts pioneered in 1986 are still staples of the modern trading card experience. Three decades later, Fleer baseball’s groundbreaking ’86 set remains one of the most influential in the history of the hobby.

1993 DONRUSS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 1993 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the early 1990s. While it didn’t have the same star power as sets from previous years at Donruss, there are still several key rookie and star player cards that remain highly sought after by collectors today. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1993 Donruss baseball card release.

Dale Murphy (#215) – As one of the biggest stars of the 1980s, Dale Murphy’s career was winding down by 1993 but he was still a respected veteran. His 1933 Donruss card remains one of the most visually striking from the entire set due to its blue borders and action photo. While not exceptionally rare, Murphy’s card has held steady value over the years for collectors appreciating one of the game’s great sluggers from the previous decade. PSA 10 examples currently sell for around $50-75.

Greg Maddux (#238) – Maddux was already establishing himself as one of baseball’s best pitchers by 1993, coinciding with the early peak of value for his rookie cards. While not his official rookie season, the 1993 Donruss card captures Maddux in an Atlanta Braves uniform which adds to its appeal. Pristine PSA 10 copies can fetch $300-500 due to Maddux’s Hall of Fame career and the card being a key piece in sets from his playing days.

Derek Jeter (#637) – As one of the most coveted rookie cards in the modern era, Jeter’s highly anticipated 1993 Donruss rookie is a tremendous pull for collectors. The card features a glowing headshot of the future Yankees captain and is iconic from this period. High grade PSA 10 Jeter rookies have sold for as much as $15,000 in recent years, showing little sign of slowing down as one of the best baseball cards from the 1990s. Even well-centered PSA 9 copies can sell for $2,000-3,000 still.

Frank Thomas (#229) – Another smash rookie season, Frank Thomas exploded onto the scene in 1993 to win the AL MVP award. His powerful swing is captured perfectly on this Donruss rookie card. Like Jeter, the “Big Hurt’s” star power and Hall of Fame career have kept demand high for what is arguably a top-5 card from the entire set. Mint PSA 10 Thomas rookies range from $3,000-5,000 depending on market conditions.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#99) – While not his true rookie season, Griffey Jr. was already one of baseball’s brightest young talents in 1993. This popular Donruss issue showcases Griffey’s sweet swing and has become a iconic artifact from his early career collecting baseball’s mantle. PSA 10 copies remain amongst the most expensive cards from the ’93 Donruss release, regularly topping $5,000-$8,000 at auction. Even well-centered PSA 9 examples can sell for $2,000 or more.

Roberto Alomar (#511) – Coming off his breakout 1992 season and Gold Glove/All-Star accolades, Alomar had developed into a budding superstar for the Blue Jays by 1993. This colorful Donruss issue depicts Alomar flashing leather at second base. High grade variants can sell for $150-250 given Alomar’s outstanding career and this representing the peak of his early collecting era card values.

Fred McGriff (#92) – From 1988-1995, Fred McGriff was one of the most consistent power hitters in baseball. This vertical format Donruss card is a iconic artifact from “The Crime Dog’s” early years dominating with the Atlanta Braves and Padres. Higher graded versions in the PSA 8-10 range tend to sell in the $75-150 range today reflecting McGriff’s Hall of Fame caliber career.

Ozzie Smith (#622) – A surefire Hall of Famer already in the later stages of his career by 1993, “The Wizard’s” defensive skills were legendary. This dramatic action shot Donruss issueendures as an all-time memorable Ozzie Smith card. Higher grades around PSA 8 still sell for $50-100 given Smith’s indelible legacy at shortstop.

While not the strongest set roster to build around, the 1993 Donruss baseballs cards endures due to starring megastars like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, Frank Thomas in their rookie seasons. Stacked with talent, the set also shines representing Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux, Frank Thomas, Roberto Alomar, Fred McGriff, and Ozzie Smith in their early prime years. Graded versions of key rookies and stars continue to hold collector interest and solid valuation some 30 years later.

DEMI HAS 21 BASEBALL CARDS

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Demi has always been fascinated by baseball ever since they were a young child. Their grandfather was a huge baseball fan and would take Demi to minor league baseball games every summer. At each game, their grandfather would buy Demi a pack of baseball cards to look through. This started Demi’s lifelong collection of baseball cards that they have amassed over the years.

Currently, Demi has a total of 21 baseball cards in their collection. The cards range in age from recent years all the way back to the 1950s. Demi keeps all of their cards safely stored in plastic sleeves in a baseball card binder. The cards are organized alphabetically by the player’s last name to make it easy for Demi to find any particular card they want.

Some of the oldest cards in Demi’s collection include a 1955 Topps card of Willie Mays and a 1959 Topps card of Hank Aaron. Both of these Hall of Fame players are considered among the all-time greats in baseball history. Demi loves owning cards of legends from the earliest days of Topps baseball cards. The Mays and Aaron cards are certainly two of the most prized possessions in their collection.

In addition to those 1950s gems, some other noteworthy cards in Demi’s collection include a 1993 Fleer Ultra card of Ken Griffey Jr., a 2000 Upper Deck card of Derek Jeter, and a 2009 Topps card of Albert Pujols. Griffey, Jeter, and Pujols were all phenomenal players who put together Hall of Fame caliber careers. Demi enjoyed watching all three superstars play and is proud to have cards commemorating their achievements.

While Demi owns cards of past legends and recent stars, they also have a soft spot for current players as well. A few modern cards that Demi treasures are a 2018 Topps card of Ronald Acuña Jr., a 2019 Topps Update card of Pete Alonso, and a 2020 Topps card of Fernando Tatís Jr. These up-and-coming young stars have already had breakout seasons and appear poised for stardom in the years to come. Demi is excited to potentially add to their collections of these rising talents as their careers progress.

In addition to Topps, Demi has also accumulated cards from other baseball card manufacturers over the years. They have a 2012 Bowman Chrome card of future superstar Mike Trout from when he was just a rookie. They also have a 2016 Panini Prizm Silver Parallel card of star shortstop Corey Seager. Demi enjoys the variety that different card brands and inserts can provide to their collection.

While Demi loves to collect cards from all eras, they have a particular fondness for rookie cards that could potentially gain value if those players live up to their potential. Besides the Trout and Seager rookies already mentioned, Demi also has rookie cards of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Eloy Jiménez, and Wander Franco. All three of these young players have shown immense promise and their rookie cards could prove to be a wise long term investment if any of them achieve stardom.

Of course, no baseball card collection would be complete without at least one card of a player from a favorite hometown team. For Demi, that player represented in their collection is Mookie Betts, whose 2018 Topps Update card resides among the 21 cards. Betts was a star for the Boston Red Sox during his tenure there and helped lead them to a World Series title. Demi was thrilled to have the opportunity to see Betts play in person for their favorite team.

While Demi would love to continue adding to their baseball card collection, they are very careful about only purchasing cards that they truly want in order to avoid cluttering their collection with unnecessary duplicates or uninteresting players. The 21 cards that Demi currently owns all have personal meaning and value to them in commemorating players and moments from baseball history. Demi takes great care in maintaining their collection and hopes to one day pass their baseball card collection down to future generations of family who will appreciate its contents just as much.

EBAY 1970 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1970 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the entire history of the hobby. It was the ninth series of modern cardboard produced by the Topps Chewing Gum Company and featured 660 total cards including rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Johnny Bench, George Brett, and Nolan Ryan. The 1970 set came out during a transitional period for the sport that saw expansion, cultural changes, and new stars emerging. Nearly 50 years later, these classic cards remain highly collectible and desirable on the vintage baseball card market, especially on auction sites like eBay.

The late 1960s was an era of change and upheaval in America. The civil rights movement and anti-war sentiment were reshaping society. Major League Baseball sought to attract new, younger fans by adding four expansion teams for the 1969 season – the Montreal Expos, San Diego Padres, Kansas City Royals, and Seattle Pilots. Player salaries were also rising rapidly. In this context, the 1970 Topps set captured a snapshot of baseball transitioning to reflect the changing times. Design-wise, it featured a clean white border around each card with a team logo at the top and player’s name/position at the bottom. The photos showed the players in bright, colorful uniforms from the late ’60s/early ’70s that stood out from drabber designs of earlier eras.

Rookie cards in the 1970 Topps set have become some of the most coveted and valuable in the hobby. Johnny Bench’s rookie is arguably the most iconic of the bunch. As a 21-year-old catcher for the Cincinnati Reds, Bench had just won the 1969 National League Rookie of the Year award and went on to have a Hall of Fame career winning two MVPs. In top-graded PSA 10 condition, his rookie now sells for thousands on eBay. George Brett’s rookie is also highly sought after since he became a career .300 hitter and three-time batting champ for the Kansas City Royals. Nolan Ryan’s first card depicts him as a 23-year-old flamethrower for the New York Mets and hints at the Hall of Fame dominance he would achieve by striking out over 5,000 batters. These star rookies help drive interest in the entire 1970 set.

Beyond the rookies, the 1970 Topps issue contained other notable stars in the early stages of their careers like Tom Seaver, Hank Aaron, and Willie Mays. It also included the final cards for legends like Mickey Mantle and Willie McCovey who were nearing retirement. The design captured a mix of established veterans and up-and-coming young talent that made for a set representing baseball at an intriguing crossroads. For fans who collected the cards as kids in the early 1970s, they hold strong nostalgia decades later. This nostalgia factor combined with the star rookies has kept demand and values high for complete or partial 1970 Topps sets on the secondary market.

On auction sites like eBay, 1970 Topps cards in top grades regularly sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the player and condition. A PSA 10 Johnny Bench rookie has sold for over $30,000. But high-end examples of any star like Seaver, Aaron, or Mays in pristine condition can reach five figures. Even common players grade PSA 10 sell for $100-200. Lower-grade copies are still actively collected and traded, with cards in worn but identifiable condition going for $5-50 depending on the player. Complete common runs missing only a few stars can be acquired for $500-1000. And partial sets with 50-100 mixed cards still sell briskly at $100-300. For collectors just starting out, there are also affordable opportunities to obtain 1970 Topps rookie cards graded lower at $20-100 each.

After half a century, the 1970 Topps baseball card set remains a beloved and iconic issue that defined the hobby during a pivotal time for baseball. As one of the most complete snapshots of that era in sports, it holds immense nostalgia and historical value. Cards from this set, especially the coveted rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, are always in high demand on the secondary market site eBay. Whether acquiring pristine high-grade gems or more affordable examples, 1970 Topps continues to entice new generations of collectors with its timeless designs and all-star lineup from a transitional period when the national pastime was evolving rapidly.

1990 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS DATABASE

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The 1990 Topps Traded baseball card set was released mid-season by the Topps Company as a supplemental product to their main 1990 baseball card release. The Traded set featured players who were traded or acquired via free agency after printing of the base set had been completed. This added numerous stars to new clubs shown for the first time in their new uniforms.

Some of the biggest player trades preceding the 1990 season included Frank Viola going from the Twins to the Mets, Dave Stewart from the A’s to the Padres, and Dennis Martinez from the Expos to the Blue Jays. Free agent prizes like Bobby Bonilla (Pirates), Ryne Sandberg (Cubs), and Rick Sutcliffe ( Indians) also signed with new teams. The Traded set helped collectors update their rosters to reflect these many mid-season roster changes.

The 1990 Topps Traded set contains 132 cards total. The designs and photography styles generally match the main 1990 Topps issue. All cards in the Traded set feature the subject in the uniform of their new club acquired after the original printing. This allows collectors a way to keep up with the many player transactions that occur each season.

Several notable stars are featured prominently in the 1990 Topps Traded set wearing their new uniforms for the first time. Future Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley is shown as an Ace reliever for the formidable A’s bullpen on card #T1 after being obtained from the Cubs. Star outfielder Bobby Bonilla, a key free agent signing by the Pirates, leads off the set with card #T2 photographed in the Pittsburgh black and gold.

Two of the biggest acquisitions before the 1990 season, Dave Stewart and Dennis Martinez, both receive star treatment early in the Traded checklist. Stewart is photographed on the mound for the Padres on card #T3 after coming over from the A’s. Martinez also gets one of the prized early spots at #T7 in his new Blue Jays duds obtained from Montreal. Both pitchers would go on to have solid seasons helping their new clubs.

Other notable players included in the Traded set wearing their post-deal uniforms are Carter (Dodgers), Saberhagen (Red Sox), Morris (Blue Jays), Higuera (Marlins), Fernandez (Mets), and Sandberg (Cubs). Most of these stars were obtained via trade but some like Sandberg signed as notable free agents. The mix makes for an all-star collection of players updated for collectors in their latest jerseys mid-season.

Beyond just star players, the 1990 Topps Traded set also contains several other interesting subset-style inserts. A nine-card “Top Prospects” subset at the beginning highlights some of the top rookies on the cusp of joining their parent club’s roster. A three-card “Olympic Team USA” insert honors baseball’s return to the Summer Games that year. And three traded managers—Lasorda, Cox, and Johnson—also receive special spotlight cards outside the base checklist.

In terms of specialty parallels, the 1990 Topps Traded release also marked one of the earliest Gold Label parallel variations introduced by Topps. A mere four Gold Label parallel cards were inserted randomly in hobby packs back then featuring Boggs, Whitaker, Saberhagen, and Martinez. These scarce early parallels can fetch a hefty premium today for advanced collectors.

When it comes to the overall condition and demand for the 1990 Topps Traded cards today, the set maintains strong collector interest due its ability to update key rosters and showcase many new uniforms. Commons are quite affordable across all grades while the biggest stars and notable parallels command higher values. Aside from a few very light production lines, centering is also generally above average compared to some early ’90s Topps issues—a plus for grading potential.

The 1990 Topps Traded baseball card set enjoys a special nostalgia amongst collectors for its ability to showcase so many famous baseball players in the uniforms of their new teams. Featuring a who’s who of stars and several popular inserts at only 132 cards total, it serves as a fun and affordable supplemental set for keeping rosters current during baseball’s hot stove season each year. The strong visuals and overall collecting demand ensure the 1990 Topps Traded cards remain a valued part of baseball card history.