HISTORY OF SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The Origins of Baseball Card Scores – Before the Dawn of Modern Cards

The tradition of collecting and finding value in baseball cards can be traced all the way back to the late 19th century, before what we consider the modern baseball card era began in the late 1880s. Some of the earliest recognized precursors to modern baseball cards were small printed cards issued by tobacco companies to promote their products.

These tobacco cards usually featured only a small simplified portrait of a baseball player and basic career stats. They weren’t really intended as collectibles like modern cards would become. Instead, they were mostly just advertising gimmicks inserted in tobacco products mainly as rewards for their customers.

It wasn’t until the early 1880s when the American Tobacco Company began extensively issuing baseball cards as part of cigarette and chewing tobacco packs that collecting them started gaining popularity. These tobacco cards were printed on thicker stock than previous cigarette cards so they were more durable for handling and showing off in card collections.

Some of the earliest baseball tobacco sets issued in the mid-1880s included cards produced by companies like Goodwin & Company, Allen & Ginter, and N. & G. Taylor. These early tobacco sets lacked modern design conveniences like team logos or uniform photographs. Instead, most featured simpler illustrated portraits along with key career stats.

Even at this very early stage though, some collectors and hobbyists recognized the potential value that future rarity might bring to their card collections. The oldest documented organized baseball card collections date back to the 1880s, showing collecting had already become a recognized hobby.

The Dawn of Scorecards and the Rise of Modern Baseball Cards

By the late 1880s, tobacco companies realized that baseball had become hugely popular nationwide. This led publishers like Goodwin & Co. and Allen & Ginter to produce more extensive tobacco card series focused purely on baseball players. Several key developments in the late 19th century helped transform tobacco cards into more recognizable precursors to modern baseball cards:

The addition of uniforms/team logos to cards helped cement the visualization of players within the context of their major league teams. This made card imagery feel more authentic and accurate representations of the sport.

Tobacco companies began having full-body portraits professionally photographed specifically for their baseball cards rather than illustrated approximations. This gave a realistic view of each player never seen before on cards.

Standardization of player stats listing included new important details like career batting/fielding averages. This provided deeper insights appealing more to dedicated baseball fans and stat geeks.

Increased print runs provided more cards inserted in tobacco packs, satisfying growing demand as baseball fever took hold nationally. This vastly increased circulation and the potential size of card collecting communities.

By the late 1880s and early 1890s, tobacco inserts evolved distinctly focused on baseball itself and increasingly resembled the modern cards that followed. But a crucial missing piece remained – room on the cards for tracking scores and stats during games.

This is where cigarette cards transitioned into true baseball card scorecards that could be kept in pockets at the ballpark. Companies caught on that dedicated scorecard sets could appeal directly to the growing legions of devoted baseball fans attending games nationwide every weekend.

In 1887, the manufacturer Ogden issued the first known dedicated baseball scorecards. Distributed as a series of card sheets that could easily be pulled apart and had room for notetaking, they were an instant hit among fans wanting an easy way to record scores from the games they attended.

Over 15,000 word article continues on the next post…

1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Donruss released baseball cards annually from 1981 to 1992, when the company lost its MLB license to competitor Upper Deck. The 1991 set in particular saw tremendous growth in popularity and secondary market prices in recent years. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes the 1991 Donruss set so desirable to collectors.

One of the main reasons 1991 Donruss cards have appreciated in value is the impressive rookie class featured. Star prospects like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and David Justice all made their card debuts in the set. Having future Hall of Famers and perennial All-Stars like Bonds and Maddux in their rookie season greatly increases interest from collectors seeking those cards. Bonds’ rookie card in particular regularly sells for thousands of dollars in high grades now. Even role players from that rookie class like Erik Plantenberg and John Burkett hold value due to their association.

Along with future stars, the 1991 Donruss set also captured plenty of established names that drove interest upon release. Tracy McGrady, Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., and Roger Clemens drew collectors. For fans and investors at the time, dropping $1-2 on a pack could yield cards of active superstars. Many veterans and stars autographed or relic cards have also increased in rarity and price in recent years. The star power between rookies and veterans created a well-balanced collector base for the issue.

In terms of design and production specifics, the 1991 Donruss release had distinguishing traits that added to its appeal long-term. The bright primary color backgrounds, team logo insignias, and straightforward action photos provided clarity that has aged better than more cluttered late 80s/early 90s designs. Donruss also used higher quality cardboard stock and thicker coating on the 1991 cards compared to previous years. This resulted in superior protection against the dings and dents common for cards of that era when not well-sleeved. The durability has ensured many specimens still grade nicely today.

Aside from the on-card aspects, the 1991 Donruss serial numbers also play a role in the increased secondary prices. Only 303 million cards were printed for the base set compared to competitors’ sets typically in the 500-700 million range. The lower print run creates artificial scarcity that pushes prices upward. Error cards like missing team logo variations, missing player names, and typos all carry extreme premiums as true one-of-a-kind collectibles. Even limited insert sets like Diamond Kings from 1991 Donruss exceed $100 a card now in high grades.

When examining the population reports from leading third-party grading services, it’s plain to see how rare top-graded examples of 1991 Donruss have become. Only a small handful of each rookie card have achieved the coveted Gem Mint 10 rating from PSA. Even base common players struggle to break double digit 9’s graded. The natural grading wear combined with increased new submissions make pristine versions increasingly elusive. Combined with the factors already described, this lowers the available supply to satisfy surging collector demand.

The 1991 Donruss baseball card set established itself as one of the era’s most iconic and valuable issues due to the star-studded rookie class, impressive vintage player population, durable and aesthetically-pleasing design qualities, limited print run, and gradual rarity increases over time. While 1991 Donruss cards were relatively common and inexpensive for decades, a perfect storm elevated them to premium collectible status. From common base cards to coveted autographs and serially numbered parallels, nearly all facets of the set command prices far beyond original issue value today. For dedicated collectors and investors, 1991 Donruss remains a linchpin release worthy of focus.

BEST 2023 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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The 2023 baseball season saw an exciting new crop of rookies make their big league debuts. While it’s still early, some have already shown star potential. As collectors and investors, it’s important to identify the rookies who could become the game’s next superstars. Their rookie cards stand to gain tremendous value if they live up to expectations on the field. With the 2023 season now in the books, here are some of the top rookie cards to watch out for from this year’s class.

One of the most hyped rookies of 2023 was Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. Rodriguez had a phenomenal debut campaign, slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs, 75 RBI, and 25 stolen bases. He was named an All-Star, finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting, and helped lead the Mariners back to the postseason. Rodriguez’s prized rookie card is his Topps Series 2 base card. PSA 10 examples of this card have already eclipsed $1,000 in value, showing how Rodriguez has lived up to the hype. As he continues developing into a perennial All-Star, his Topps Series 2 card stands to gain substantially.

Another 2023 rookie standout was Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena. Pena had huge shoes to fill replacing Carlos Correa, but he proved more than capable. The 25-year old hit .253 with 22 home runs and 63 RBI en route to winning AL Rookie of the Year honors and playing a key role on the World Series champion Astros. Pena’s flagship rookie card is his Topps Series 2 base card, with PSA 10 copies already pushing $500. His performance in just his first season has vaulted him into the Astros long term plans, suggesting his cards could appreciate well if he continues progressing.

Seattle Mariners pitcher George Kirby also made a strong case for AL Rookie of the Year with his stellar pitching numbers. Kirby went 8-5 with a 3.39 ERA and 1.171 WHIP across 25 starts and 112.1 innings. He showed poise beyond his years and looks to be a key part of the Mariners’ young rotation core. Kirby’s top rookie card is his Topps Series 2 base issue. With demand strong for the Mariners’ top prospects, this card looks primed to rise in value if Kirby solidifies his place as a frontline starter going forward.

The Atlanta Braves saw right fielder Michael Harris II emerge as one of baseball’s best rookies in 2023. Harris batted .297 with 19 home runs, 64 RBI and 20 stolen bases while playing stellar defense. He finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting and looks to be a core piece of the Braves’ future. Harris’ flagship rookie card is his Topps Series 2 base issue, with a PSA 10 copy recently selling for over $600. As one of the top young outfielders in baseball, Harris has All-Star potential that could drive his cards higher.

One of the most exciting rookies of 2023 was catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles. Long considered the top prospect in baseball, Rutschman finally made his MLB debut and showed why with a .254 average, 10 home runs and 45 RBI in 92 games. He has all the tools to be an offensive force from the catcher position for years to come. Rutschman’s prized rookie card is his Topps Series 2 base issue, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $1,000. As the future face of the Orioles, Rutschman’s cards have a high ceiling if he becomes the superstar many expect.

Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic endured a disappointing 2022 season but bounced back strong in 2023. Kelenic slashed .237/.308/.411 with 19 home runs and 70 RBI in his first full season, showcasing his tantalizing power/speed combo. Now just 23, Kelenic could develop into an All-Star caliber player. His Topps Series 2 base card looks like a bargain for such a talented young player. If Kelenic takes another step forward in 2024, this card’s price could multiply.

One of the most exciting pitching prospects to debut in 2023 was Miami Marlins righty Max Meyer. The No. 3 overall pick from 2020 battled injuries in the minors but looked dominant in the majors, posting a 3.45 ERA and 1.173 WHIP with 29 strikeouts in 30.1 innings. Meyer’s electric four-pitch mix gives him true ace potential. His Topps Series 2 base card looks to be one of the top pitching prospects cards from the 2023 class. Meyer’s future is very bright if he stays healthy.

Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Miguel Vargas had a strong rookie showing in 2022 with a .304 average, 5 home runs and 26 RBI in just 48 games. The 22-year old has an advanced approach that should allow his power to develop further. Playing everyday for the Dodgers in 2023, Vargas hit .273 with 8 homers and 51 RBI while seeing time at multiple positions. His versatility and offensive skills could make him a mainstay for the Dodgers. Vargas’ Topps Series 2 card is a solid long term hold.

One of the most impressive rookie pitchers of 2023 was Tampa Bay Rays starter Shane Baz. After missing 2021 recovering from Tommy John surgery, Baz emerged as a potential future ace with a 2.99 ERA and 1.129 WHIP across 14 starts. The 23-year old possesses a mid-90s fastball with a wipeout slider, giving him true ace upside. Baz’s Topps Series 2 card looks like a bargain for such a high-upside arm still early in his career comeback. He has the talent to be a frontline starter for years.

Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bryson Stott made the jump from shortstop look seamless in 2023. Stott hit .234 with 14 home runs and 58 RBI while playing solid defense at multiple positions. The 24-year old has an advanced approach and should grow into more power as he matures. With his versatility and offensive skills, Stott looks like a core piece for the Phillies going forward. His Topps Series 2 card is a solid long term investment piece.

Cincinnati Reds starter Hunter Greene made major strides in 2023, going 8-10 with a 4.66 ERA and 1.333 WHIP across 31 starts and 158 innings. The power-armed 23-year old flashed dominance at times with 159 strikeouts, holding his velocity deep into games. Greene has the raw stuff to develop into an ace if he refines his command. His Topps Series 2 base card is a high-upside gamble that could pay off big.

The 2023 rookie class featured several young stars who look primed to be core players for their franchises for years to come. Rookies like Rodriguez, Pena, Harris, Rutschman and Baz appear to be future All-Stars and their rookie cards could appreciate substantially if they continue progressing. Meanwhile, high-upside arms like Kirby, Meyer and Greene offer risk but immense reward potential. For collectors and investors, the 2023 rookie class provides several opportunities to buy into top young talent who may develop into the game’s next superstars.

ANY 1990 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1990 Fleer baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the more iconic and valuable sets from the late 80s and early 90s era. While it doesn’t contain any true “gem mint” level rookies of future Hall of Famers, there are still several cards from the 1990 Fleer set that can hold significant value depending on the grade and condition. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1990 Fleer cards that have the potential to be worth money for collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#91) – Even though it wasn’t his true rookie card (that came in the 1989 Upper Deck set), Griffey’s 1990 Fleer card is still one of the most desirable and valuable cards from the set. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, this card has sold for over $2,000. But even in lower graded conditions of PSA 8 or BGS 9, Griffey’s 1990 Fleer can still fetch $100-300. He was already establishing himself as a budding superstar by 1990.

Frank Thomas (#250) – Thomas’ 1990 Fleer is considered his true rookie card since he didn’t debut in the majors until 1990. In PSA 10 condition, it has sold for over $1,000. But it maintains solid value even in PSA 8 at $75-150. Thomas went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career and his rookie card remains a key piece for any collection.

Greg Maddux (#376) – Maddux won the NL Cy Young in 1992 but had already made his debut in 1986. Still, his 1990 Fleer is one of his more iconic early career cards. PSA 10 examples have sold for $800-1,000. In PSA 8 condition it still holds $50-100 of value.

Roberto Alomar (#150) – Alomar debuted in 1988 but 1990 was his first full season. His Fleer rookie from this set maintains value at $50-150 in PSA 8 condition given his outstanding career. PSA 10 gem copies have reached $400-500.

Tom Glavine (#516) – Glavine won his first of two Cy Youngs in 1991 and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His 1990 Fleer rookie card holds $50-150 value in PSA 8 condition. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $300.

David Justice (#290) – Justice emerged as a power hitting outfielder for the Braves in the early 90s. His rookie card from 1990 Fleer is fairly scarce in high grades and has sold for $150-300 in PSA 9 condition.

Jeff Bagwell (#600) – Bagwell’s 1990 Fleer is considered his true rookie after debuting late in the 1989 season. Even in PSA 8 condition it maintains $50-100 of value. PSA/BGS 9 examples have reached $150-300 given his outstanding career.

Dennis Martinez (#30) – Martinez was already an established starter by 1990 but his Fleer card from this year maintains nostalgia and value at $25-50 even in lower grades due to his long career.

Roberto Kelly (#480) – Kelly had some productive seasons for the Red Sox in the early 90s and his 1990 Fleer rookie holds $25-50 of value in PSA 8 condition.

Bobby Thigpen (#620) – Thigpen set the single season saves record with 57 in 1990. His rookie card maintains $20-40 value even in PSA 8 thanks to his place in history.

In addition to star rookie cards and future Hall of Famers, there are also several key short prints and serially numbered cards from the 1990 Fleer set that can carry substantial premiums based on rarity and condition. The Frank Thomas SP (#250) and serially numbered cards of stars like Barry Bonds (#50), Nolan Ryan (#100), and Ozzie Smith (#400) are often among the most valuable 1990 Fleer cards on the high-end market.

While it may lack a true “gem mint” level rookie like a Griffey or Bonds find, the 1990 Fleer baseball card set remains a highly collectible vintage release. For today’s investors, cards like Griffey, Thomas, Maddux, Glavine, Bagwell, and Justice maintain solid long term value prospects in high grades as proven by recent auction prices. With patience, condition, and a little luck, there are 1990 Fleer cards that absolutely have the potential to be worth significant money down the road. Condition, of course, is still king when determining the value of any vintage baseball card from this classic early 90s Fleer set.

BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 80S AND 90s

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Baseball cards were hugely popular collectibles throughout the 1980s and 1990s. During this era, many new baseball card companies emerged and trading card technology advanced significantly. Some of the most iconic baseball cards ever produced came out of this prolific period for the hobby.

In the early 1980s, the main baseball card manufacturers were Topps, Donruss, and Fleer. Topps had dominated the market since the 1950s but faced new competition from Donruss and Fleer in the ’80s. All three companies released annual sets featuring current major league players. Topps cards from this era are some of the most recognizable, with classic designs that captured the style of the decade. Notable rookie cards from the early 80s included Mike Schmidt, Fernando Valenzuela, and Cal Ripken Jr.

In the mid-1980s, Donruss and Fleer began experimenting with innovative card designs and materials. Donruss introduced “Diamond Kings” cards made of thicker plastic stock in 1985. Fleer took things a step further in 1986 by producing the first “chrome” or “refractor” style cards, which had shiny reflective surfaces. These premium insert cards of star players like Wade Boggs and Roger Clemens are highly sought after by collectors today.

The late 80s saw the baseball card market absolutely explode in popularity. Along with the traditional Topps, Donruss, and Fleer sets, many new companies entered the scene like Score, Leaf, and Upper Deck. Score released the first “traded” set in 1987, featuring players swapped between teams during that season. The 1989 Upper Deck set revolutionized the industry by using high-quality card stock and tighter quality control. Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card from this set is one of the most valuable baseball cards ever printed.

In the early 90s, the baseball card boom was in full swing. Major league players were featured in dozens of annual sets from numerous manufacturers. Score released innovative “Studio” cards with action photography in 1990. The 1991 Upper Deck set took things to another level with hologram and refractors of superstar players. This era also saw the rise of regional sets like Fleer Greats of the Game, showcasing legends from specific areas. Wax packs could be found in nearly every store across the country.

The junk wax era of the early 1990s flooded the market with so many mass-produced sets that it caused a crash. While supply was high, demand dropped off significantly. Many collectors lost interest due to readily available cards having little perceived value. The era also produced some truly iconic rookie cards. In 1990, Topps featured Bryce Harper on a minor league card at just 6 years old. Griffey Jr continued to dazzle collectors with incredible Upper Deck rookie cards in 1990-1991.

As the decade went on, the baseball card market stabilized. Fewer companies released sets after the overproduction of the early 90s. In the mid-90s, manufacturers focused on innovation once more. Stadium Club debuted premium chrome and refractor parallel cards in 1993. The 1995 Finest set included rare autograph and memorabilia cards of the games’ elite. Icons like Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn had some of their best and most valuable cards during this period.

By the late 90s, the internet was beginning to change how collectors interacted. Online trading via websites like eBay made it easier than ever to buy and sell cards. The retro style of the 1998 Skybox Molten Metal set paid homage to the classic designs of the 1980s. Iconic players like Ken Griffey Jr. and Derek Jeter had some of their last major rookie and star cards during this era as well.

The 1980s and 1990s were a golden age for baseball cards. New manufacturers, innovative designs, and sky-high popularity drove the hobby to new heights. While overproduction caused issues early on, the era also birthed some of the most iconic rookie cards and players in the history of the collecting world. The innovations of this time period still influence baseball card design and production today.

1988 TOPPS AMERICAN BASEBALL PICTURE CARDS

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The 1988 Topps baseball card set was one of the most unique and nostalgic issues of the 1980s. While production of the beloved cardboard collectibles had been ongoing since 1938, Topps took several creative risks with the ’88 set that made it stand out from previous years. They incorporated new photo technologies, printed rare retro tribute cards, and featured one of the most iconic rookie cards of the modern era.

For the first time, Topps utilized state-of-the-art colorization techniques on player photos that gave cards a vivid, lifelike quality unlike anything collectors had seen before. By digitally enhancing shades and textures, faces and uniforms popped with crisp realism. This revolutionary “Colorflow” process changed the visual standard that remained the norm for decades after. It allowed enthusiasts to study every detail of their favorite stars like never before.

Topps also paid homage to where it all began 50 years prior with the inclusion of reproductions of the very first 1938 Goudey baseball gum cards. Only 10 such retro reprints existed in the set numbered from 1-10. Finding one of these ultra-rare throwbacks was akin to unearthing a buried treasure for collectors of the time. With designs mimicking the old-timey aesthetic of late 1930s cards but on 1980s-quality stock, they were true collector’s items.

Perhaps most significantly, the ’88 Topps issue introduced one of the most valuable rookie cards in the long history of the hobby – Ken Griffey Jr. After getting his first MLB cup of coffee late in 1987, everyone knew Junior would be a superstar. His iconic smiling face as a Cincinnati Red made the #116 card one of the most sought-after in the set from Day 1 and its value has done nothing but grow exponentially over time.

In total, the standard 792-card core set comprehensively featured photos and stats for all Major League players, managers, and coaches from the 1987 season. Notable stars prominently showcased included Orel Hershiser, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and more. Relying on candid action shots rather than posed studio portraits, each veteran brought a distinct personality to their respective cardboard.

Meanwhile, other promising rookies beyond Griffey also had their rookie cards debut, such as Tom Glavine, Gregg Olson, and Bobby Thigpen. None could match the cachet Junior commanded from the very start. His card value alone makes 1988 Topps among the landmark sets in baseball memorabilia. Add in the stunning photo technology upgrades and tribute cards, and it’s a true pivotal year that collectors still marvel at today.

Beyond the core numbering, Topps issued several specialty and promotional subsets within the 1988 offering. The “Traded” set featured 64 cards highlighting players who were dealt to new teams during the season. A “Diamond Leaders” insert covered the top stats getters in seven offensive categories. Oddball promotional issues for Kellogg’s cereal and Hostess snacks also granted rewards for consumers.

Additionally, Topps produced their traditional mini, rack, and Traded/Released subsets. Staple variations like errors, missing backs, glossy/non-glossy foil finishes, and die-cuts added even more layers of complexity for enthusiasts to explore. Completed 1988 sets in pristine condition continue to hold significant worth decades later demonstrating the enduring appeal and historical significance of the design.

The 1988 Topps baseball cards truly marked both the culmination of a half-century set tradition as well as a giant technological leap forward. Between showcasing the arrival of future Hall of Famers like Griffey and pioneering photo innovations, it’s easy to understand why the issue remains a pinnacle among baby boom and generation X collectors. The perfect storm of nostalgia, stars, and collector value has cemented 1988 Topps in the annals of sports card history as one of the single most iconic yearly sets ever produced. Its lasting influence is still felt throughout the modern hobby.

2018 BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2018 Bowman Chrome baseball card set is one of the more popular modern release in the hobby due to its shiny refractors and prospect selection. While the base cards have relatively modest values, the parallels and autographs from this set can be quite valuable for investors and collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies and prospects from 2018 Bowman Chrome and how their card values have fluctuated over time.

One of the most coveted rookies from 2018 Bowman Chrome is Juan Soto. As a consensus top prospect heading into that season, Soto did not disappoint by winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. His chrome base card can be found for under $10, but the parallels and autographs command much higher prices. The Soto Prismatic Refractor (#172) regularly sells for $100-200 raw, while a on-card auto fetches $500-1000 depending on the parallel. With Soto still being just 21 years old and considered a future superstar, these prices are likely to continue climbing over the long run.

Another top 2018 rookie who has seen his cards appreciate is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. While he did not make his MLB debut until 2019, Guerrero was probably the most buzzed about Blue Jays prospect in years. The Guerrero Jr. base chrome sells for $15-25 but his Prismatic Refractor (#189) recently brought in over $600 at auction. Autographs range from $300-1000 based on the parallel. With Guerrero looking like a perennial All-Star already, his cards should hold strong investment value moving forward.

Two other 2018 Bowman Chrome rookies that appeared in the majors in their debut seasons and showed promise are Eloy Jimenez and Shane Bieber. Jimenez smashed 31 home runs as a rookie in 2019 for the White Sox and has become a fan favorite on the South Side. His base card goes for $10-15 but Prismatic Refractors hit $150-250. Autographed cards vary from $200-600. Bieber burst onto the scene by winning the AL Cy Young award in 2020 after posting a stellar 1.63 ERA. While not quite the name recognition of some others, Bieber’s talent is undeniable and his base is $8-12 with autos at $150-350.

Beyond the rookie phenoms, there are also many top prospects from 2018 Bowman Chrome who have yet to debut but possess sky-high ceilings. Wander Franco continues to be the cream of the crop as the consensus #1 prospect in baseball playing for the Rays. Due to his extreme hype, even his base chrome exceeds $20-30 with color parallels reaching $300-700 raw. On-card autos command at least $1000-2000 each. Another highly regarded but still pre-debut talent is UCLA standout Jarred Kelenic, who was acquired by the Mets in the Robinson Cano deal. Kelenic’s cards have recently cooled off some from record highs, but his autos still pull in $400-700 on average.

While not all prospects from 2018 Bowman Chrome panned out, there are still prospects in the pipeline who could emerge as future superstars. Players like Jo Adell with the Angels, Nolan Gorman of the Cardinals, and Andrew Vaughn on the White Sox all hold promise. Their current card values are pretty modest, but savvy collectors are snapping up their autographs and color parallels for under $100 now in anticipation of future success. The fun of these Bowman Chrome releases is identifying the future stars still in the minors.

While the 2018 Bowman Chrome base cards themselves have somewhat plateaued value-wise, the parallel refractors and autographs of the top rookies and prospects from that year continue appreciating due to proven on-field success and future potential. Savvy investors are securing affordable color parallels and autos now of still unproven talents like Gorman, Adell, and Vaughn. The exciting rookies of Soto, Guerrero Jr., and Jimenez make their prized refractors and autographs true keepers. With such a wealth of talent featured, 2018 Bowman Chrome ensures its legacy as one of the great modern prospect sets.

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BASEBALL CARDS ON CEREAL BOXES

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Baseball cards have long been a tradition for young sports fans. While packs of cards could be found in hobby shops and candy stores, in the 1970s cereal makers began including cards as promotions to drive cereal sales. This sparked the boom of kids trading and collecting cards found right in their cereal boxes.

In 1969, Kellogg’s partnered with the Topps chewing gum and baseball card company to include a mint-flavored Bazooka bubble gum packet and a baseball card inside Cocoa Krispies, Fruity Pebbles, and Apple Jacks cereal boxes. This trial run was a success and helped solidify the marriage between baseball cards and breakfast cereal. In the following years, other cereal brands like General Mills and Post jumped on the baseball card bandwagon.

Meanwhile, the popularity of baseball itself was exploding during this time period. New stadiums were being built, television contracts were expanding the fanbase, and young Baby Boomers were coming of age with a passion for the national pastime. This all converged to make collecting baseball cards an enormously popular hobby and activity for children in the 1970s. Finding that shiny card of their favorite player inside a cereal box gave an exciting surprise each morning. The ability to swap duplicates with friends at school further fueled the collecting frenzy.

The peak era for baseball cards in cereal boxes was the late 1970s through the early 1980s. In 1978 alone, Kellogg’s produced a record 750 million baseball cards that were inserted into 16 different cereal varieties. Post Cereal joined the action in 1979 with cards featuring superstar players in sets like “Stars of Baseball.” General Mills added cards to cereals like Chex in 1980. By 1981, the quantity of baseball cards being manufactured and distributed through cereal had skyrocketed to over 2.5 billion cards annually industry wide.

During this golden age, the cards themselves evolved into finer works of artistic sportscards. Full color action shots of players became the norm on glossy cardboard stock. Bursting statistics on the back let fans pore over batting averages and earned run averages. Bios of the players portrayed them as human beings with families and hobbies off the field. Gum company Topps rose to become the dominant pack leader with their basic white border design beloved by collectors even today.

Of course, for the cereal companies it was all about selling more boxes of their products. Initially they aimed the baseball card promotion at boys aged 6 to 12 years old. Research found many parents and even whole families were purchasing multiple boxes just to acquire complete card sets with their breakfast. This led General Mills and others to include additional promotions like mail-away offers for team pennants and mini posters right on the cereal box front. Fans could not wait to open each new box hoping for that rare rookie card or all-star variation to add to their growing collections.

The baseball card in cereal boom would continue strong throughout the 1980s before starting to decline. Over-production led to plummeting resale values of common cards. The sports memorabilia industry was becoming more sophisticated, and kids had many competing interests as new technologies like video games emerged. Though some cards appeared into the early 1990s, the major cereal companies began pulling back after a decade of unprecedented output. Leaf Brands took over production of sports cards forPost Cereal starting in 1989.

But the legacy and memories created by finding baseball cards amidst each morning’s Cheerios or Corn Flakes lives on for a generation of fans. For many, flipping through those worn cardboard pages remains a joyful stroll down memory lane recalling childhood summers spent following baseball on the radio as cards were sorted and swapped under the breakfast table. Collecting from cereal boxes sparked an enduring passion for America’s pastime in millions of young hearts during its golden age. And it all started with a simple yet delightful surprise guaranteed right inside every box.

BASEBALL BUBBLE GUM CARDS

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Baseball bubble gum cards are a classic collectible that have brought joy to young and old fans alike for generations. First appearing in the late 1880s as promotional items inserted into packages of gum or other products, baseball cards grew to become one of the most popular and beloved sports collectibles of all time.

Some of the earliest known baseball cards date back to around 1886 and were included in packs of cigarette tobacco as promotional incentives. These cards featured individual players from major league teams and helped drive sales of the tobacco products they were packaged with. In the early 1890s, several gum and candy companies also began experimenting with including small cardboard cards with images of baseball stars directly in their products.

The modern era of baseball cards as we know them today generally credits the American Caramel Company as the first to mass produce and distribute cards featuring current major league players. In 1911, the company inserted small rectangular cardboard cards depicting popular players from that season into their caramel candy. This helped boost candy sales and also helped grow the popularity of collecting these early baseball cards.

In the following years, several other candy manufacturers like Good & Plenty and Murad Cigarettes also began including baseball cards in their products. It was the Goudey Gum Company that took baseball cards to a new level of popularity when they launched a dedicated 1933 baseball card series. Featuring iconic images of legends like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Jimmie Foxx, the beautifully designed Goudey cards were inserted into bubble gum packs and helped position baseball cards as a collectible in their own right, not just a candy promotion.

The 1930s saw several other important developments that helped cement baseball cards as a mainstream hobby. In 1935, the National Chicle Company issued a hugely popular set featuring all 16 major league teams. Two years later, their 1937 issue included the first cards featuring action player photos instead of posed studio portraits. These more dynamic images captured the excitement of the game and resonated with young collectors.

The post-World War 2 era was a golden age for baseball cards, with production skyrocketing to meet growing demand. Brands like Bowman, Topps, and Leaf issued beautiful high-quality sets on a yearly basis. In 1948, Topps purchased the rights to produce the only authorized baseball cards, helping them dominate the market for decades. Iconic sets from the 1950s like Topps’ 1952 and 1954 issues are still considered some of the most visually striking and collectible in the history of the hobby.

The late 1950s and 1960s saw new frontiers and firsts for baseball cards. In 1957, Topps broke the color barrier by issuing the first cards featuring non-white players like Willie Mays in full color prints. A few years later in 1961, Topps debuted the first modern size cards measuring 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches, which became the industry standard. The 1960s also saw the introduction of player autographs and uniforms relic cards that added new levels of excitement and value.

The 1970s was another boom period, with annual sets growing larger and more comprehensive. The overproduction of cards also led to a crash in the early 1980s as the bubble burst. Many companies went out of business due to oversaturation while the remaining firms like Topps consolidated production. The late 80s and 90s saw a revival and modernization of the hobby. Innovation in insert sets featuring parallels, refractors, and memorabilia cards attracted both old and new collectors.

Today, baseball cards remain hugely popular around the world. While the print runs of modern sets number in the millions compared to the thousands of classic vintage issues, cards still capture the imagination of kids and spark lifelong collecting passions. Whether enjoying the thrill of opening a fresh pack or carefully curating a treasured collection, baseball cards continue connecting generations to America’s pastime through affordable nostalgia and accessible memorabilia. The simple cardboard wonders of over a century ago have grown into one of the most enduring legacies in all of sports culture.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS BY YEAR

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Donruss Baseball Cards by Year: A History from 1981-Present

Donruss began producing baseball cards in 1981 and has become one of the most iconic and recognizable brands in the hobby. Over the past 40+ years, Donruss cards have featured some of the game’s biggest stars and provided collectors with memorable designs and inserts. Let’s take a look at the Donruss brand through the years to see how their sets and products have evolved since the early 1980s.

1981 – Donruss released their inaugural baseball card set in 1981. The set featured 540 cards and highlighted rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith. The design was simple but effective, showing a player photo on the front with basic stats on the back. This set launched the Donruss brand and is still highly sought after by collectors today.

1982 – Not much changed design-wise in 1982, as Donruss stuck with the basic front photo and back stats look. The set included cards for all 26 MLB teams and highlighted rookie cards for future stars like Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry. The ’82 Donruss set is regarded as one of the more affordable vintage issues that collectors can still find in bargain bins.

1983 – Donruss expanded to 660 cards in 1983 and added team logo designs on the front of many cards. The back also saw an update with more in-depth stats and career highlights. Rookies like Wade Boggs, Kirby Puckett, and Ron Guidry had their first Donruss issues in ’83. The set also featured the first Donruss Traded/Update set, which included cards of players who switched teams during the season.

1984 – Donruss kept the 660 card count and logo front designs in ’84. This set is notable for featuring the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden, and Don Mattingly. The ’84 Donruss set also contained the first Special Olympics Benefit cards, which honored athletes from the organization. Proceeds from the sales of these cards went to support the Special Olympics.

1985 – A major redesign occurred in 1985 as Donruss unveiled new vertical card designs showing action shots on the fronts. The backs also received an overhaul with a green color scheme and more visual career stats. Set size increased to 674 cards and rookies included Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and Bret Saberhagen. The ’85 Donruss issue is still a popular set among collectors today.

1986 – Donruss kept the vertical action shot design from ’85 but changed the fronts to feature team wordmarks across the top. The 674 card set included rookie cards for Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz. Insert sets like Traded and Update were also included. The ’86 Donruss release highlighted many future Hall of Fame players and remains a classic in the brand’s history.

1987 – With 674 cards again, the ’87 Donruss set retained the vertical design while making minor tweaks to the fronts and backs. Notable rookies included Chuck Knoblauch, Moises Alou, and Todd Zeile. Insert sets in ’87 included Traded, Update, and Manager cards. Overall it was an evolution of the previous few years’ designs from Donruss.

1988 – In 1988, Donruss reduced the base set count to 552 cards but introduced parallel “Diamond Kings” inserts featuring glossy photo variations. The vertical design stayed put as well. Rookies included Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and David Justice. The ’88 release was the last Donruss set to feature the classic vertical design that defined the mid-80s era.

1989 – Donruss unveiled a brand new horizontal card design for 1989, moving away from the vertical look. The 660 card set featured a clean white border around each photo. Notable rookies included Jeff Bagwell, Kenny Lofton, and Tim Wakefield. Insert sets like Traded and Manager returned as well. The ’89 issue marked a change in aesthetics that would carry into the 90s.

1990 – The horizontal design continued into 1990 with a 660 card base set. That year’s rookies included Frank Thomas, Jeff Kent, and Mo Vaughn. For the first time, Donruss offered factory sets in addition to loose packs. Insert sets included Traded, Update, and Managers. The ’90 release showed the brand’s commitment to evolving while holding onto some classic insert sets.

1991 – Donruss kept the horizontal base card layout but added team wordmarks above the photos. The 660 card set featured the rookie cards of Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Derek Jeter. Popular inserts returned like Traded, Update, and Managers. The ’91 issue is highly sought after today due its rookie class and classic Donruss design elements.

1992 – For 1992, Donruss reduced the set count to 528 cards and made minor tweaks to the horizontal template. Notable rookies included Jason Giambi, Nomar Garciaparra, and John Smoltz. Insert sets included Traded, Update, and a new “Diamond Kings” parallels subset. The ’92 release showcased many future Hall of Famers in their early careers.

1993 – Donruss went back to a 660 card base set in 1993. That year’s rookie class included Derek Jeter, Jason Kendall, and Todd Helton. Inserts included Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and a new “All-Time Greats” subset highlighting legends of the game. The ’93 issue maintained the clean horizontal design collectors had grown accustomed to.

1994 – The 660 card ’94 Donruss set featured rookie cards for Nomar Garciaparra, Pedro Martinez, and Troy Percival. Insert sets included Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. Design-wise, Donruss kept the formula consistent. This set remains highly collectible due to its star-studded rookie class.

1995 – For 1995, Donruss reduced the base count again to 528 cards. Rookies included Derek Jeter, Hideo Nomo, and Todd Helton in their first Donruss issues. Inserts were Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The horizontal template endured as the brand’s standard design language.

1996 – Donruss went back to 660 cards for the ’96 release. Rookies included Nomar Garciaparra, Kerry Wood, and Derek Jeter in his second year card. Insert sets stayed the same as ’95. The horizontal design showed no signs of changing as Donruss entered the late 90s.

1997 – The 660 card ’97 Donruss set featured rookie cards for Ben Grieve, Todd Helton, and Carlos Beltran. Inserts included Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. Design-wise, this set was very similar to previous mid-90s issues from Donruss. The brand maintained stability during a time when other companies experimented.

1998 – Donruss reduced the base count to 528 cards in 1998. Rookies included Nomar Garciaparra, Kerry Wood, and Ben Grieve in his second year issue. Insert sets were Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The tried-and-true horizontal template carried over unchanged.

1999 – For the final base set of the 90s, Donruss went with a 660 card design. Rookies included Jorge Posada, Jason Giambi, and Matt Morris. Inserts included Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The horizontal design showed no signs of going away as Donruss entered the new millennium.

2000 – Donruss started the 2000s with a 528 card base set. Rookies included Bobby Abreu, Alfonso Soriano, and Mark Mulder. Insert sets were Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The brand’s signature horizontal card template remained in place.

2001 – The ’01 Donruss release included 660 base cards. Rookies that year included Albert Pujols, Ichiro Suzuki, and Johnny Damon. Inserts were Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. Design-wise, this set was more of the same successful Donruss formula collectors had come to expect.

2002 – Donruss went back to 528 cards for 2002. Notable rookies included Scott Kazmir, B.J. Upton, and Miguel Cabrera. Insert sets stayed consistent with Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The horizontal template endured as the brand’s standard into the early 2000s.

2003 – The 660 card ’03 Donruss set featured rookie cards for Dontrelle Willis, Josh Beckett, and Carlos Beltran in his second year issue. Insert sets included Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. Design-wise, this set showed little change from previous years.

2004 – Donruss reduced the base count to 528 cards for 2004. Rookies included Jered Weaver, Bobby Crosby, and Justin Verlander. Insert sets were Traded, Update, Diamond Kings, and All-Time Greats. The tried-and-true horizontal template lived on