ESTATE SALE BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Estate sales can be a treasure trove for collectors looking to find valuable baseball cards and other sports memorabilia. When someone passes away and their possessions need to be liquidated, it often means families are looking to sell off collections that were amassed over many decades. This means there is potential to find some real gems still tucked away in old shoeboxes and storage containers. With the excitement of potentially finding a valuable rookie card also comes the risk of being overwhelmed by the vast quantities of common cards that make up the bulk of most vintage collections. The key is knowing what to look for and having patience to dig through piles of cards to hopefully make some great finds.

Many people who collected cards in the 1950s through 1980s simply tossed their common cards in shoeboxes and never organized them. This means an estate sale can have hundreds or even thousands of cards all mixed together with no rhyme or reason. The first step for any collector browsing an estate sale is to carefully go through each box or container, sorting cards by sport and year if possible. Taking the time to organize will make actually checking values and conditions much easier later on. It also allows you to spot things more readily, like finding an entire unopened wax pack from the 1960s mixed in with loose cards.

Condition is absolutely critical when determining value, so carefully inspect each potentially valuable card. Creases, corners bumps, and edge wear can drastically reduce what a card in otherwise great condition would be worth. Even well-worn vintage cards from the early decades of the 20th century can still retain value for collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. Knowing average grades is important too, as most vintage cards were not properly stored and have at least some wear that is considered “normal” for the era. A card in average or better condition is more likely to find a buyer versus one that is ripped or falling apart.

There are certain hall-of-famers and star players from each era that are most sought after and valuable. For the earliest decades of the 1900s, cards of legends like Honus Wagner, Ty Cobb, and Babe Ruth can be worth thousands – even millions – in top grades. The post-World War 2 era through the 1960s saw the rise of icons like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron. Their rookie and star cards remain highly collectible. The 1970s heralded a new generation of stars like Reggie Jackson, Mike Schmidt, and Nolan Ryan. And the late 1980s is when sports cards truly exploded in popularity, making rookie cards of Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and Cal Ripken Jr. particularly desirable today.

Beyond the biggest names, there are also certain rare and unique card variations that could have significant value. Error cards, oddball issues, promotional versions – things like these that differ from the standard release design can intrigue collectors. Even common players may have scarce parallel versions that are worth investigating. And unopened wax packs or factory sets sealed in their original packaging are always exciting to find, as their contents are still a mystery.

Another area worth paying close attention to is team sets from the early decades prior to the 1950s. These vintage sets are quite rare today in any condition due to their age. Finding intact teams sets or large portions still in the original album pages could yield a very valuable discovery. Regional issues and oddball minor league or independent league cards are other specialized areas that may have some hidden gems for the right collector as well.

Estate sales are a true treasure hunt for sports memorabilia. With enough digging, there is potential to unearth valuable vintage cards worth hundreds or thousands. But it definitely requires patience to sift through common cards. The keys are knowing what to look for in terms of the biggest stars, rarest variations, and paying close attention to condition of finds. With some research beforehand and by taking the time to properly sort and inspect cards, an avid collector can hopefully leave an estate sale with some great vintage baseball cards finds. Just be prepared for lots of sorting too – the rewards come from diligently checking every last card!

2021 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

Leave a reply

The 2021 Topps Baseball card series is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year as it features the rookie cards of baseball’s newest stars. While the 2020 season was truncated due to the pandemic, many top prospects still made their MLB debuts and are featured in this year’s Topps set. Collectors and investors are always keen to get their hands on the rookie cards of players before they potentially break out, as these early issues can gain tremendous value over time. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies to look out for in the 2021 Topps Baseball card set.

Starting with the biggest name, Los Angeles Angels two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani is undoubtedly one of the premiere rookies in the set. As the 2021 American League MVP and a true five-tool player capable of pitching and hitting at an elite level, collectors consider Ohtani to have “generational talent” status. His Topps rookie card is sure to become one of the most iconic and valuable modern cards upon his inevitable continued success and potential Hall of Fame career. Other high-profile rookies like Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco and Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez also debuted in 2021 and showed flashes of stardom. Franco in particular is considered a possible future face of baseball and his rookie cards could gain Jeff Loria Blue type value over the decades.

Moving beyond the true superstar prospects, there are several other young players who broke into the big leagues in 2021 and make for intriguing rookies to collect in the Topps set. Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah had a stellar rookie campaign and showed why he was such a highly-touted prospect. His cards could gain value rapidly if he develops into a consistent ace at the front of Toronto’s rotation. Milwaukee Brewers catcher Luke Maile became a fan favorite for his powerful bat and versatility, making his Topps rookie cards solid long-term holds. Dynamic Detroit Tigers prospect Riley Greene only received a partial cup of coffee in 2021 but possesses a complete skillset and polished plate approach that should make him a annual All-Star – his rookie cards are worth targeting.

In addition to the position player and pitcher rookies, relievers also made their MLB debuts in 2021 and could turn into solid closers or setup arms going forward. Cubs reliever Rachel Winningham quickly became a stabilizing late-inning presence thanks to a dominant splitter and poised demeanor. His Topps cards are affordable now but may spike if he assumes the full-time closer role. Similarly, Athletics fireballer Dany Jimenez took the 9th inning job in 2021 andflashed the stuff to hold it for years – a future save king in the making. Braves pitching prospect Spencer Strider only tossed 20 innings but featured a triple-digit fastball that prompted comparisons to Justin Verlander. He’s one to watch develop in 2022 and beyond.

While the biggest rookie stars understandably receive the most attention and collector demand, digging deeper can uncover hidden gems in the 2021 Topps set as well. Players like Rays infielder Vidal Brujan, White Sox starter Davis Martin, and Padres slugger Eric Hosmer Jr. all madecameo debuts but have the complete skillsets and pedigrees to stick in the majors for a long time. Their rookie cards can be acquired very reasonably today but easily appreciate into the triple-digit range if they blossom into core contributors. Even veterans get rookie cards too – Diamondbacks ace Madison Bumgarner debuted with the D-backs in 2021 after spending a decade in San Francisco.

The 2021 Topps Baseball card set is loaded with potential future stars and exciting rookies breaking into the big leagues. While premium cards of players like Ohtani and Franco understandably demand top dollar, savvy collectors can also uncover affordable future MVP candidates by researching prospects, betting on breakout players, and collecting rookie cards from across the entire set release. As exciting young talents continue debuting each season, the 2021 Topps rookies offer a gold mine of opportunity to get involved early on the road to stardom for baseball’s next generation.

TOP 30 BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The hobby of collecting baseball cards has been popular for over 100 years. While it may bring nostalgia and fun to some, for serious collectors and investors, certain cards hold immense value. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most coveted and expensive baseball cards in the world.

1909 T206 Honus Wagner – Considered the holy grail of baseball cards, only around 60 examples of the ultra-rare Wagner card are known to exist. In pristine condition, it can sell for well over $1 million, setting the record at $3.12 million in 2016. The card is special because Wagner asked the American Tobacco Company to withdraw his image from production due to his dislike of promoting tobacco.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – As one of the game’s true icons and one of the most collectible athletes ever, Mantle’s rookie card is hugely sought after. High graded versions in the range of PSA 8 to PSA 10 have sold for over $100,000, with a PSA 9 example selling for $228,000 in 2019.

1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth – One of the earliest baseball cards featuring “The Bambino,” it depicts Ruth during his playing days for the New York Yankees. In high grades like PSA 8 or above, it can fetch six figures or more at auction due to Ruth’s legendary status. A PSA 8.5 copy was auctioned for $275,000 last year.

1952 Topps Jackie Robinson – As the card of baseball’s first African American player in the post-Negro League era, it holds immense cultural significance. Higher graded PSA 8 to PSA 10 examples brought in excess of $100,000.

1920 Bray Corbitt – Sometimes called the Babe Ruth error card due to its showing Corbitt playing for the Boston Red Sox rather than the league he was in, NYX. Less than 100 are known to exist and a PSA Authentic example sold for $305,000 in 2018.

1914 Cracker Jack Lew Richie – One of the earliest cards inserted in Cracker Jack packs, which helped popularize the pastime. Graded PSA 8 copies sold in the $100,000 range.

1951 Bowman #1 Mickey Mantle – Considered the most historically significant card from the post-WW2 era, it features Mantle as a rookie. High graded PSA 8 to PSA 10 copies bring $50K and up. A PSA 8.5 example was sold for $195,000 in January 2020.

1995 Bowman’s Best Refractor Ken Griffey Jr – Griffey was one of the biggest stars of the 90s and his rookie refractors hold immense value due to scarcity and beauty. A rare Gem Mint PSA 10 sold for over $360,000 in 2019.

1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson – Considered one of the most underrated early 1900s players, “Shoeless Joe” Jackson is infamous for his alleged involvement in the 1919 Black Sox Scandal. His high grade T206 cards are rare and valuable.

1948 Bowman Mickey Mantle – As one of Mantle’s earliest career cards from Topps’ earliest years, it remains one of the key vintage issues. A sharp PSA 8 brought $70,000 in 2018.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank – One of the top pitchers of the Deadball Era, Plank’s image appeared on the iconic T206 set. An example in PSA 8 condition sold for over $100,000 recently.

1957 Topps #142 Sandy Koufax – Capturing Koufax as a young Dodgers pitcher before establishing himself as a Hall of Fame arm, high grade versions are valuable. A PSA 9 sold for $88,800 in 2019.

1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson – Considered one of the game’s greatest hurlers with a lifetime ERA under 2.00, “The Big Train’s” iconic cardboard is highly coveted. A PSA 8 copy achieved $83,000 in 2020.

1963 Topps #18 Pete Rose (Striking Pose) – An action photo of the hit leader Rose before his career took off. Higher PSA grades (8+) that show the full-motion photography in crisp detail command 5 figures or more.

1948 Leaf Joe DiMaggio – One of the earliest cards displaying “Joltin’ Joe” in his Yankee pinstripes. PSA 8s brought $70K while a PSA 7 sold for $50K in 2018. The condition sensitive quality adds allure.

1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson – Regarded as one of baseball’s earliest pitching aces, winning 373 games before his untimely death. Sharp high graded examples surpass $50K.

1917-19 M101-3 Babe Ruth – Capturing the Golden Era slugger in one of his early Boston clubs. A PSA 8 copy realized over $50,000 in auction this year.

1951 Bowman #321 Whitey Ford – Getting Ford as a young, rising pitcher for the Yankees dynasty years before he won over 200 games. Gems at PSA 9 or above reach $40-50K.

1968 Topps #20 Nolan Ryan – Iconic rookie card art of the all-time strikeout king, the hardest of hard throwers. High grades bring $25-30K or more.

1988 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. – Instantly iconic rookie card art of “The Kid.” High grade refractors can crack $30K on strong markets.

1989 Bowman Baseball Barry Bonds – Capturing Bonds’ coming out campaign with the Pirates before his controversial Giants run. A PSA 10 sold for over $24K in 2020.

2003 Topps Chrome Piazza Refractor – Legendary catcher’s iconic Refractor rookie honors his Dodger retirement. PSA 10s go for $20K territory.

1976 Sommer & Hoyt Mark Fidrych – Capturing “The Bird” in his electric, charismatic rookie year with the Tigers. High grades crack $15-20K.

1953 Topps Willie Mays – Early Topps card celebrating the “Say Hey Kid” in the heart of his legendary Giants career. Higher grades reach the 5-figure range.

1990 Score Ken Griffey Jr. – Iconic early RC in the mass-produced Score brand before the era of prized inserts. Condition matters less at $8-10K.

1999 SP Authentic Vladimir Guerrero – Eye-catching design and shot of the “Vlad the Impaler” Expos star. PSA 10s climb near $10K recently.

1997 Fleer Metal Universe Ken Griffey Jr. – Ultra- premium vintage parallel from Junior’s peak. Few true PSA 10s sell north of $5 figures.

2009 Topps Update Clayton Kershaw – Captures Kershaw as a rising star before his ace run. Higher graded PSA 10 RCs top over $5,000.

2014 Topps Allen & Ginter Mike Trout – Prized parallels of Trout from this iconic release. Pristine full-color RCs top over $3,000.

2006 Upper Deck Black Parallel Clayton Kershaw – Highly rare parallel of Kershaw’s early career. Short prints in Gem Mint shine near $3,000.

2007 Bowman Chrome Draft Kris Bryant – Capturing the slugging Cub’s star potential as a prospect. Pristine PSA 10s grow near $2,500.

2005 Topps Chrome Prospects Ryan Braun – Glowing parallels of Braun’s tools before his Brewers tenure. Higher graded versions crack $2,000.

2011 Topps Update Mike Trout – Iconic blue “Future Star” design heralding Trout’s coming out party. Near-Gem PSA 9s cross two grand.

Iconic cards from the earliest T206 era to modern stars command top dollar among avid collectors based on scarcity, condition, historical significance, and star power of the featured athlete captured in card form. Condition remains king for maximizing value across most of the top 30 cards highlighted here.

1976 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

Leave a reply

The 1976 Topps baseball set was the 55th edition of Topps’ venerable baseball card series. It contained photos of 762 different players and managers from the American and National Leagues. Some of the most notable rookie cards found in the set included Gary Carter, Paul Molitor, and Tom Seaver in his first year with the Boston Red Sox after spending the first decade of his career with the New York Mets.

The design and layout of the 1976 Topps set remained largely similar to the 1975 edition. Each card continued to feature a color action photo of the ballplayer surrounded by a white border. Statistics like batting average, home runs, and RBIs from the previous season were printed on the bottom along with the player’s name, team, and position in bold text. The Topps logo was in the lower-right corner with the card number shown on the upper-right side.

On the back of each card, career statistics and a brief biography of the player were included. This remained the standard format for baseball cards throughout the 1970s. The condition and grade of vintage cards like these from the mid-1970s can have a profound impact on their value for collectors today. Even minor flaws or issues can significantly decrease what a card in top mint condition might sell for on the secondary market.

Some key rookie cards that frequently come up for sale from the iconic 1976 Topps set include:

Gary Carter (#25) – The Hall of Fame catcher for the Montreal Expos made his MLB debut in 1974 but his rookie card was in the 1976 set. Graded examples in mint condition can fetch over $1,000.

Wade Boggs (#479) – Another future Hall of Famer, Boggs broke in with the Boston Red Sox in 1976. High-grade copies of his rookie card sell in the $200-300 range.

Paul Molitor (#498) – The 39-time All-Star began his star-studded career with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1978. His rookie card from two years prior is amongst the most coveted from this set, with PSA 10 Gem Mint examples selling for $500+.

Dave Parker (#476) – Known as “Cobra,” Parker won two batting titles and an NL MVP award during his 19-year career. His rookie card remains one of the scarcest and most expensive from 1976, valued over $1,000 in top condition.

Tom Seaver (#1) – The legendary Mets hurler was dealt to Boston after 1974 and his switch to the Red Sox is memorialized by this unique first-year card with his new team. Near-mint copies change hands for $250-300.

Aside from rookie cards, several star veterans from the 1970s also have their cards highly regarded from the 1976 set as well. Nolan Ryan’s card (#660) is always in strong demand due to his iconic status. Other popular retired players include Johnny Bench (#33), Hank Aaron (#3), and Rod Carew (#267). Their cards in high grades command $50-100 on the open market.

Unlike many vintage sets prior to the late 1980s, the 1976 Topps issue had an enormous printing with over 13 series produced. As such, most regular player cards can be acquired in at least played condition for just a few dollars. But mint copies of future Hall of Famers, rookie cards, and stars of the era remain premium collectibles. Their values are determined predominantly by centering, corners, edges and surface qualities when compared to photographic guides.

Another unique aspect of the 1976 Topps baseball set was the inclusion of manager cards for the first time. Legendary skippers like Walter Alston of the Dodgers, Sparky Anderson of the Reds, and Whitey Herzog of the Royals all had their own cardboard. In top shape, these shadow boxes command $40-60 each due to their scarcity and historic nod to the men behind the dugouts.

Whether chasing rookie gems, star veterans, or unusual managers’ stubs – there is plenty to discover for collectors in the large but iconic 1976 Topps baseball release. While common players can be found cheaply, condition- sensitive premium items continue to engage enthusiasts decades after first being pack pulled. This enduring mainstream set remains a snapshot of the national pastime in the mid-1970s that transformed many childhood hobbies into lifetime passions.

MUSTANGS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Mustangs Baseball Cards were produced from 1962 to 1979 and featured players from across Major League Baseball. The brand was established by the Topps Company, which was already the dominant force in the baseball card industry. Topps launched Mustangs as a more affordable subset of its flagship Topps brand, aimed primarily at younger collectors.

Unlike Topps cards of the same era, which featured color photos, Mustangs cards used simple black and white illustrations to keep production costs low. The cards measured approximately 2-1/2 inches by 3-1/2 inches, smaller than standard cards. Despite their smaller size and lack of photos, Mustangs cards gained popularity among kids and value among collectors decades later.

The earliest Mustangs sets from the 1960s featured artwork in the style of that era. Illustrations emphasized action shots with a cartoonish flair. Players were depicted mid-swing or mid-throw, their facial expressions exaggerated for effect. Backgrounds were sparse or stylized, focusing attention on the player. Sets from 1962 to 1967 averaged about 100 cards each and included the biggest star players of the time.

In the late 1960s, Topps made subtle tweaks to Mustangs designs. Illustrations adopted a realistic style closer to actual photos. Facial features looked more natural rather than caricatured. Backgrounds became richer with details like stadium signage and fans in the stands. Sets grew larger, peaking at 198 cards in 1969. This coincided with baseball’s rising popularity as the “Summer of Love” era took hold in American culture.

The early 1970s brought further evolution to Mustangs cards. Color was added for the first time, with red ink used for borders, titles and statistics on otherwise black and white illustrated fronts. Backs featured more statistical data and introduced color team logos. Topps also greatly expanded the number of rookie cards issued compared to the 1960s. Rising young stars like Reggie Jackson got their start in the Mustangs subset.

Midway through the decade, Topps switched Mustangs to landscape format, following the lead of rival brands. This opened more space for illustrations while maintaining the smaller card dimensions collectors had grown accustomed to. Sets continued to expand in size, with the 1972 and 1974 editions boasting over 230 cards each. Veteran players remained alongside crop after crop of rookies breaking into the majors.

In 1975, Topps took Mustangs in a new artistic direction by introducing realistic painted portraits to replace illustrations. Whereas early Mustangs emphasized action, the portraits focused intimately on each player’s face. It was a nod to the growing player image rights issues in baseball. The quality of painted portraits varied but were a visual departure that collectors appreciated. Sets from 1975 to 1977 held around 180 to 200 cards with this new visual concept.

The final two years of Mustangs production, 1978 and 1979, saw some of the most iconic player cards issued. Stars like Reggie Jackson, Rod Carew and Nolan Ryan appeared in their popular late 1970s uniforms. Topps increased snapshot photos on the backs and added personal stats. Although baseball card sales began declining industry-wide, Mustangs remained tremendously popular with collectors young and old.

When Topps ended Mustangs after 1979, it discontinued one of the most affordable entry points for kids to experience the hobby. In the decades since, collectors have looked back nostalgically at the simple black and white illustrations and intimate painted portraits that defined the Mustangs brand. While lesser known than Topps and other major issues, Mustangs cards established a significant place in the history of baseball cards and memorabilia collecting. Today they retain considerable value, especially for key rookies and stars of the 1960s and 1970s. Mustangs was a success story of accessible baseball cards that introduced generations to the nationwide pastime.

BASEBALL CARDS UNBOXING

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for generations, allowing fans to collect pieces of their favorite players and relive memorable moments from seasons past. While individual cards can be purchased, one of the most exciting ways to build a collection is through unboxing fresh packs in search of rare finds. Let’s take an in-depth look at the baseball cards unboxing experience.

Opening a pack of baseball cards is like unwrapping a present – you never know what treasures might be inside. Most packs contain somewhere between 5-20 cards each, with the specific number varying by manufacturer and set year. Common cards showcasing current and former players make up the bulk of each pack, but the thrill is in hoping for one of the highly sought after inserts, parallels, autographs or memorabilia cards hidden among the commons. Some unboxing tips include carefully opening from the bottom corner to avoid damaging the precious cargo inside, and taking care not to bend or wrinkle any valuable pulls.

Topps is generally considered the premier brand in the baseball card industry, releasing annual sets each spring that are inserted into wax packs, hobby boxes and retail blasters across the country. Their flagship ‘Base’ series is the most widely available each year, featuring all current Major League players on standard cardboard. But collectors seek out special Topps products like Chrome, Finest, Archives and Allen & Ginter for their photo and production quality. Bowman is another respected brand known for highlighting top prospects, while companies like Panini, Leaf and Donruss offer alternative options beyond the big two.

Within each pack’s assortment of commons lurk several possible prize cards. ‘Short prints’ are slightly rarer variations of standard cards that are tougher to find. ‘Parallels’ showcase alternative color or material versions of a base card, such as gold, black, silver, orange refractors or autograph parallels. ‘Memorabilia’ cards pair a player photo with an authentic piece of their uniform, bat or other equipment. And ‘autographs’ are the holy grail, containing the actual signature of a star, usually serially numbered to 99 copies or less. Hits like these can significantly increase a card’s value.

The excitement builds as each new card is revealed layer by layer during unboxing. Commons fly by quickly, but collectors carefully inspect each short print, parallel or star player for signs of something special hidden within. Suddenly, a glimmer of refracted light might catch the eye – could it be? Slowly flipping it over to see the unmistakable autograph scrawled across could produce goosebumps. Or perhaps underneath lies a meaningful patch of fabric straight from a championship jersey. Moments like these make searching pack after pack of seemingly regular cards worthwhile.

While the majority of packs contain standard commons, dedicated collectors know to always have hope. Even common cards from past decades that initially held little value can eventually ascend as those players are enshrined in Cooperstown or their teams enjoy revival. And today’s short prints may become coveted tomorrow as rarity increases their cachet over time. The true magic of baseball cards is preserving little slices of the game’s history, reliving classic performances and connecting to our favorite athletes even long after their playing days. Whether building sets, chasing parallels or seeking one-of-a-kind hits, unboxing packs remains a quintessential part of the hobby for fans of all ages.

So while individual cards or boxes can certainly satisfy, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of the hunt found in randomly searching pack after pack of baseball cards. The anticipation of each reveal keeps collectors coming back, as you never know when you may discover a treasure that could become tomorrow’s prized piece of memorabilia. From commons to superstars, unboxing allows fans to add to their collections while reliving memories of seasons past – and perhaps make a few of their own in the process. After generations of devoted followers, the magic of baseball cards endures.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 1970s

Leave a reply

The 1970s was a transformative decade for baseball cards. As interest in collecting grew significantly during this period, several notable rookie cards and exceptional players from the era have become extremely valuable today. Whether due to powerful stats, legendary careers, or other notable achievements, some 1970s baseball cards now trade hands for thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.

One of the most prized possessions any collector can own from the 1970s is the rookie card of baseball icon Reggie Jackson. Often called “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, Jackson enjoyed a Hall of Fame career hitting 563 home runs between 1967-1987. His iconic 1973 Topps rookie card, featuring Jackson in an Oakland A’s uniform, has become one of the most valuable cards ever printed. In near-mint condition, examples have sold at auction for over $100,000. What makes this card so desirable is that Jackson went on to cement his legacy as a postseason performer while helping the New York Yankees win multiple World Series.

Another incredibly valuable rookie card from the 1970s belongs to Pittsburgh Pirates’ legend Roberto Clemente. Tragically, Clemente died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. At the time of his passing, Clemente was the first Latin American player to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His extraordinarily kind and charitable nature off the field only added to his legend on it. Roberto Clemente’s 1954 Topps rookie card has changed hands for over $50,000 in gem mint condition due to his iconic status and untimely demise at the young age of 38.

Two of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history also have 1970s rookie cards that continuously set record prices. Nolan Ryan’s 1966 Topps rookie card is one of the key cards from the 1960s but remained quite affordable for decades. As Ryan piled up career strikeouts and no-hitters after no-hitters, demand has skyrocketed for his rookie issue. A pristine copy is now worth at least $20,000. Meanwhile, Tom Seaver’s famous 1967 Fleer rookie card in near-mint condition can sell for upwards of $25,000. Like Ryan, “Tom Terrific” put together a Hall of Fame career mainly with the New York Mets that saw him notch 311 career wins and a mind-boggling 3,640 strikeouts.

Among the most valuable common 1970s cards are those featuring superstar players at the peak of their powers on notoriously formidable teams. The 1975 Topps card of Cincinnati Reds’ ted MVP Joe Morgan is highly sought after depicting “Little Joe” in his back-to-back MVP seasons of 1975-1976 powering the Big Red Machine. High grades have sold for over $10,000. Meanwhile, Reggie Jackson’s 1977 Topps card from his MVP 1977 season leading the Yankee dynasty to another World Series title consistently trades at $7,500-$10,000 in pristine condition.

Two error cards from the 1970s are also prizes for collectors willing to pay top dollar. The 1969 Topps Hank Aaron card carrying the incorrect “Aarin” surname variation is the key error from that decade. In top condition, it can command $15,000 due to the rarity inherent with errors and recognition of Aaron as one of the best hitters ever. The other is the 1971 Topps box bottom Nolan Ryan card that lacks a team name on the front. Status and condition affect value, but a pristine example would cost over $12,000.

Marquee 1970s rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Jackson, Clemente, Ryan, and Seaver are icons with no signs of losing value anytime soon. Meanwhile, common high grade cards highlighting elite players and teams from the decade will likely remain in high demand for collectors seeking pieces of baseball history from one of its most entertaining eras. With its mix of venerable stars, memorable performances, and historical significance, the 1970s was truly a golden age that lives on through some of the hobby’s most valuable trading cards.

KORY DEHAAN BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Kory DeHaan was a hard-throwing right-handed relief pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1995 to 2003. While his baseball career was relatively short, spanning just 221 games over 9 seasons with 6 different teams, DeHaan made a name for himself in the hobby of baseball card collecting due to a noteworthy short print card error from 1997.

DeHaan was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 5th round of the 1992 MLB June Amateur Draft out of Mesa High School in Mesa, Arizona. He made his MLB debut with the Reds in 1995 but was traded to the San Diego Padres in 1998. It was with the Padres in 1997 that the error occurred which started DeHaan’s rise in the world of memorabilia collecting.

In 1997, Upper Deck produced their series two baseball card set. For Padres players, the photo negatives that were used ended up being from Spring Training in 1996 instead of 1997. This resulted in Kory DeHaan’s card showing him wearing Padres uniform number 49, which he did not wear in 1997 as he had switched to number 32. Only a small number of these cards with the incorrect uniform number were printed before the error was caught. Immediately, collectors started seeking out the rare variation to add to their collections.

The scarcity and obvious error made DeHaan’s 1997 Upper Deck series two card with the #49 become quite valuable in the hobby. In near mint condition, uncorrected versions of this card today sell for hundreds of dollars on the secondary market. It remains one of the most famous error cards in baseball card history due to the visual discrepancy catching collectors’ eyes. While DeHaan had a fine but not overwhelming career on the mound, this single card printing mistake immortalized him forever in the memorabilia world.

Other cards of DeHaan hold value as well since he became synonymous with this famous error. High-grade rookies or parallels attract interest. It is that 1997 Upper Deck card that is the true crown jewel and most iconic in any collection focusing on DeHaan. The obvious nature of showing him in a Padres uniform but with an incorrect number positioned it to gain legendary status amongst error card aficionados.

As for DeHaan’s actual baseball career, he spent parts of six seasons in the MLB between 1995-2003. After being dealt by Cincinnati to San Diego in 1998, he also had stints pitching for the Anaheim Angels, Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, and Detroit Tigers before retiring. He compiled a career 18-18 record with a 4.63 ERA and 15 saves over 221 total games, all in relief. His best statistical season came in 2000 for the Angels, where he posted a 2-2 record with a 3.21 ERA and 5 saves in 55 appearances.

Despite only playing a backup role in the big leagues, DeHaan enjoyed a nice 10-year professional career overall including time in the minor leagues. He consistently missed enough bats with a 92-94 MPH fastball to stick around, though his batting average against hovered around .270 each year. Control issues held him back from realizing his full potential at the highest level. Still, it was enough time in uniform to produce that infamous 1997 error card that would cement his place in the hobby.

After retiring in 2003, DeHaan stayed actively involved in baseball through coaching. He spent three seasons as the bullpen coach for the Diamondbacks Rookie League team from 2007-2009. Then from 2010-2012 he was the pitching coach for the Yakima Bears, a short season Single-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks at the time. This gave DeHaan the chance to stay close to the game and share his experience with the next generation of pitchers coming up through the minors.

To this day, whenever Kory DeHaan’s name comes up in the baseball card collecting community, the conversation immediately turns to discussing the famous error on his 1997 Upper Deck card. While only appearing in 221 major league games over nine seasons, that single misprinted card immortalized him and made him recognizable to even casual fans and newcomers getting into the hobby. The rarity, blatant nature of the mistake, and gorgeous photography involved have cemented it as a true treasure for memorabilia enthusiasts. Though not a true star player, Kory DeHaan will always be remembered for his place in the error card hall of fame.

88 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball card collecting was hugely popular during the late 1980s, with companies like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss pumping out millions of packs each year. One brand stood out as producing some of the lowest quality cardboard of the era – 88 Score.

Released annually from 1988 to 1990 by Score Board Inc., 88 Score cards were notorious among collectors for their thin, low-grade paper stock and murky photographs. Close inspection often revealed dot matrix printing imperfections. Yet despite their shoddy construction, these cards remain iconic three decades later for capturing the stars of that dynamic period in baseball.

At a time when the steroid era was just beginning and players like Jose Canseco, Mark McGwire, and Nolan Ryan were redefining what was possible on the field, 88 Score cards were an affordable way for kids to build complete sets featuring these larger-than-life athletes. While they may not have the flashy foil cards or oddball parallels found in higher-end releases, they possess nostalgic charm as time capsules of the late 1980s game.

One of the main draws of 88 Score sets was the sheer number of included players, with rookie cards, stars, and obscure minor leaguers all represented across the base issues. The 1988 set included a whopping 792 total cards, far surpassing the standards of the day. Completing such a sprawling collection was very achievable thanks to the brand’s wide distribution through convenience and drug stores nationwide.

Unfortunately, the push to feature as many names as possible came at the cost of photo and design quality. Many players are barely recognizable under murky snapshots or generic posed portraits. Statistics are also sparsely provided, with no inclusion of career stats that had become the norm. Roster and managerial changes from one season to the next were also not well tracked.

The brand did take chances on experimental designs that set them apart. The 1988 set included die-cut cards in the shape of baseballs for selected players. Later issues experimented with color variations, glossy finishes, and oddball parallel subsets like the ’88 Score All-Stars. Gimmicky as they were, these novel treatments added interest for collectors on a budget.

While the condition of most 88 Score cards found in circulation today is understandably well-worn, there is a dedicated cult following who appreciate them for what they represent – an affordable entry point to the hobby. Complete sets in top-rated mint condition can still be acquired for just $50-100 depending on year and inclusion of chase cards. Some key individual rookie cards that command attention from collectors include Ken Griffey Jr. (1989), Frank Thomas (1988), and Greg Maddux (1986).

For those willing to dig, bargain 88 Score gems can still be unearthed. The 1989 set included rookie cards for players like Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and Gary Sheffield. And the 1990 offering featured rookies of Edgar Martinez, David Justice, and Todd Stottlemyre. Even commons from these years hold nostalgic value, as they were the cardboard that fueled thousands of kids’ burgeoning love of the game.

In the modern era, where even common base cards from mainstream brands fetch $1 or more per pack, 88 Score endures as a reminder of baseball’s more affordable past. Their flimsy stock and dodgy photos could not overshadow the allure of following the scores and stats of your favorite players through a complete rainbow collection. For that generation of fans, these cards will always hold a special place in their memories of summer afternoons spent chasing sets at the local convenience store.

While 88 Score baseball cards may not be the most desirable vintage cardboard in terms of condition or investment potential, their place in history is secure. They efficiently spread the baseball card collecting bug to legions of young fans during the sport’s late 1980s renaissance. Even in their shoddy, no-frills form, these cards still evoke nostalgia for a bygone era of childhood summers and childhood allowances spent on packs of dreams and stats.

YouTube player

TOPPS MICRO BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Topps Micro Baseball Cards were a unique novelty card series released by Topps from 1988 to 1990. The cards featured highly reduced images of Major League Baseball players, managers, and logos printed on rectangles just 1/4 inch wide by 1/2 inch tall. Despite their tiny size, the Micro cards captured fans’ imaginations and remain a collectible nostalgia item over 30 years later.

Topps had been the dominant maker of baseball cards since the 1950s. In the late 1980s, they were looking for new ways to market to collectors as the industry began to fragment with new competitors. The idea of dramatically shrinking down baseball images onto Lilliputian cards was proposed as a fun novelty item. Some questioned if such tiny reproductions could even work or be appealing. However, Topps executives greenlit test production of the initial 1988 Topps Micro Baseball series.

That first run was a 104 card set featuring current star players from all 26 MLB teams. The cards had no statistics or bios, just the tiny headshot image reduced to a grainy dot matrix pattern when shrunk to Micro size. With no gum or packaging, the cards came wrapped in cellophane like strips of breath mints. Despite skepticism, they were an overnight sensation among collectors. The 1988 Topps Micro set became one of the best-selling issues that year and proved there was interest in this unique novelty format.

Encouraged, Topps expanded the Micro line in subsequent years. The 1989 set grew to 132 cards and added retired players and managers to the roster of subjects. Statistics were still absent, keeping file sizes small enough to fit on the postage stamp cards. 1990 was the largest run at 140 total cards featuring even more famous names from baseball history. Expanded team logos and uniforms designs became more detailed as the printing techniques improved.

While tiny, the Micro cards captured all the excitement of the full-size originals. Finding rare stars or new players in packs was part of the fun. Some enterprising collectors even attempted to carefully mount the cards in home-made sheet protectors or albums. But mostly the Micros were a novelty “in your hand” item, meant to be casually flipped through or traded like coins. Their small impermanence added to the novelty and disposability.

The Micro series ended after 1990 as the baseball card market changed. More specialty sets and sports memorabilia emerged while mass production of cards declined. The idea proved revolutionary and highly influential. Many other trading card companies soon followed with “minis” and smaller stock card formats of their own through the 90s. Today, commemorative mini collections remain popular for everything from movies to soccer. The original Topps Micros also retain a devoted cult following.

In the years since, vintage unopened 1988-1990 Micro packs have become highly sought after by collectors. As the first of their kind, the early Topps Micro sets hold nostalgic value since an entire generation first encountered them as children. Online auction prices now range from $50-150 per unopened pack, with some rare premium examples exceeding $300. Single mint condition common cards can sold for $5-10 each. High grade examples of stars like Ken Griffey Sr. or Ozzie Smith routinely fetch $25-50 based on demand.

The tiny dimensions and low production numbers of the Topps Micros ensure they will never cease to be a novelty. Their pocket-sized appeal and now retro vibe continue to find new appreciation. While impractical as a main collection, Micro cards remain a fun inclusion for dedicated baseball memorabilia enthusiasts or those with nostalgia for the late 80s/early 90s card boom era. Three decades later, the Topps Micros endure as one of the most unique experiments in the long history of baseball cards. Their diminutive size shares shelf space today alongside some of the most recognizable names ever to step onto a Major League diamond.