T C G BASEBALL CARDS 1973

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1973 marked a pivotal year for Topps baseball cards. For the first time, the standard card size increased from 2-1/2 by 3-1/2 inches to the modern size of 2-5/8 by 3-5/8 inches. The iconic Topps logo was updated with a new stylized font. These relatively minor changes have had a major impact on the baseball card collecting hobby that continues to this day.

The 1973 set contains photos of all 24 major league teams, totaling 660 cards. Notable rookies included Doc Medich, Jon Matlack, Willie Hernandez, Sid Monge, Dan Spillner, and Butch Wynegar. Veterans like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Roberto Clemente, and Mickey Mantle graced cards for arguably the final time before retiring. Additionally, Nolan Ryan’s impressive pitching stats were prominently displayed on his card after his breakout 1972 season.

One of the unique aspects of the 1973 Topps set was the inclusion of manager, coach, owner, and executive bios. This provided an interesting glimpse into the non-playing roles that make a Major League franchise function. Fans got to know figures like Dick Williams, Earl Weaver, George Steinbrenner, and Charles O. Finley on a more personal level through these supplemental cards.

The photoshoot and design process that went into the 1973 set helped elevate Topps’ brand. With an increased card size and budget, photographic quality was enhanced. More dynamic action shots replaced some of the stoic posed images of years past. Design elements were also refined, moving past the psychedelic designs that ended the 1960s era. A simple team logo at the top of each card established a clean, classic look.

Rookies and star players and teams receive plenty of attention from collectors. But one factor that makes 1973 cards so fascinating to study is the cultural context surrounding the season. Labor issues plagued Major League Baseball as the reserve clause binding players to their teams was challenged. This player empowerment movement would lay the foundation for free agency. The “Year of the Pitcher” saw one of the lowest league batting averages in history. Hank Aaron also broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. The 1973 cards capture all this turbulence and transition.

Along with the standard 660-card base set, Topps issued various parallel and insert subsets to drive collector interest. The most notable is the Photo Checklist cards, with headshots of every player arrayed on a single card. Numbered parallel subsets like “Topps Gold” added scarcity and prestige. Multi-player cards promoted All-Star teams and league leaders in different statistical categories. Even managers received inserts dedicated to their club’s successes and probabilities for the coming season.

Condition is always critical when examining vintage baseball cards for value and investment potential. As one of the early issues with the modern card dimensions, 1973 Topps cards saw tremendous circulation during the economic boom of the 1970s. Mint condition specimens from the base set can still be acquired for a reasonable price range of $5-15 each. Stars and key rookies tend to carry premiums upwards of $50-100 in top-graded Gem Mint 10 status. Rare parallel gold variants can even crack the $1000 threshold.

While 1974 is considered the true start of the “modern era” due to the switch from gum to wax packaging, 1973 deserves recognition as the last transitional year. Finalizing the enlarged size standard while maintaining traditional design elements made for a quintessential vintage baseball card set. Nearly 50 years later, the photographer portraits, team logos, and statistical details on each card still captivate collectors of all experience levels. Whether building full complete sets or cherry picking retired heroes, the 1973 Topps baseball issues remain timeless touchpoints to the national pastime.

81 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1981 Donruss baseball card set was the second edition of Donruss’ popular baseball card series. Following the successful debut of Donruss baseball cards in 1980, the 1981 set built upon the original design and concept while introducing several new features. The 1981 Donruss set consisted of 330 cards and captured the rosters and stats from the 1980 MLB season.

Some of the key aspects that defined the 1981 Donruss baseball card set included photo centered card designs, fun cartoonish borders, statistical information on the back of each card, and rookie cards for future Hall of Famers. Donruss continued their tradition of using high quality action photos of players on the front of each card. The photos took up most of the card space and really allowed collectors to see each player up close. Surrounding each photo was a colorful cartoon border that added some fun and nostalgia to the otherwise straightforward card designs.

On the back of each 1981 Donruss card, collectors could find statistical information for that player from the 1980 season. Stats included batting average, home runs, runs batted in, stolen bases, wins/losses for pitchers, earned run average and more. This data helped provide context and made each card more informative for both young collectors and those more interested in analyzing player performance. It was one of the early baseball card sets to regularly include stats on the reverse side of cards.

Some of the top rookies featured in the 1981 Donruss set included Ryne Sandberg, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Eddie Murray. All four of these players went on to have Hall of Fame careers in Major League Baseball. Their rookie cards from the 1981 Donruss set are now highly valuable, especially in top graded condition. Other notable rookies in the set were Steve Sax, Lee Smith, and Tim Raines. Having so many future stars make their card debut in 1981 added to the long term appeal and collecting value of the Donruss release.

In addition to rookie cards, the 1981 Donruss set also highlighted many of baseball’s biggest stars from the 1980 season. Players like Mike Schmidt, George Brett, Nolan Ryan, and Dave Winfield were all featured prominently. Schmidt won the National League MVP award in 1980 and his card from the ’81 Donruss set remains one of the most iconic and sought after from the entire release. Brett was in the midst of a dominant career for the Kansas City Royals and his card also remains popular.

The design of the 1981 Donruss cards helped them stand out among the many baseball card releases during that era. While the photos were straightforward, the cartoon borders added a vintage flair. The backs provided useful stats that increased the cards informational value. And with so many future Hall of Famers and stars featured as rookies or established players, the ’81 Donruss set had strong longevitiy in the hobby. It remains one of the most popular vintage releases for collectors today.

Prices for 1981 Donruss cards vary widely based on the player, condition, and particular card variation. Common cards from the base set in worn condition may only be worth around $1-2. Higher grade rookie cards of stars like Sandberg, Boggs, Murray and Henderson can fetch hundreds of dollars. The Mike Schmidt and George Brett cards also command higher prices when in excellent preserved condition. Of course, the most coveted and valuable 1981 Donruss card remains the rookie of Rickey Henderson. High grade PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 examples of his iconic first card have sold at auction for over $10,000.

The 1981 Donruss baseball card set broke new ground while also building upon what made the original 1980 issue so popular. With its sharp photos, fun borders, stats on the back, and star rookies and veterans, the ’81 Donruss release has stood the test of time. It remains a highly collectible vintage set almost 40 years later. For players, designers, and collectors of the era, the 1981 Donruss cards were truly a seminal baseball card release that helped propel the entire hobby forward. Their legacy and popularity continues to grow with each passing year.

BASEBALL FOOTBALL BASKETBALL CARDS VALUE

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Sports trading cards have been popular collectibles for decades, with the value of vintage cards from the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s rising significantly in recent years. Three of the most popular sports for trading cards are baseball, football and basketball. Let’s take a deeper look at what factors influence the value of cards from each of these sports and some examples of highly valuable vintage cards from each.

Baseball cards have been produced since the late 19th century and are the longest running sport for trading cards. Some key factors that influence the value of baseball cards include the player featured, the year the card was produced, the player’s career accomplishments, the condition or grade of the card, and rarity. Iconic rookie cards from the 1950s of players like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron in near mint condition can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.

Mantle’s 1952 Topps card in gem mint condition sold for $2.88 million in 2021, setting the record for the highest price ever paid for a trading card. Other highly valuable baseball cards include the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, considered the holy grail of cards, which has sold for over $3 million. Rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Sandy Koufax from the late 1950s are also extremely valuable, with one of his 1955 Bowman PS cards selling for over $250,000. Condition is crucial, as a card in poor condition will be worth just a fraction of a higher graded copy.

In American football, the most collectible cards come from the 1950s-1970s era produced by Topps, Fleer, and Kellogg’s. Some of the best football rookie cards that can be worth six figures or more include Jim Brown and Johnny Unitas from the 1950s, Joe Namath and O.J. Simpson from the 1960s, and Joe Montana and Dan Marino from the early 1980s. Football cards tend to hold their value better than other sports, as the NFL has grown to become the most popular professional sports league in America.

A rare 1969 Topps Johnny Unitas rookie card in gem mint condition sold for $92,000 in 2022. Condition is also extremely important for football cards value-wise. Complete high-numbered sets from the 1950s and 1960s Topps football issues can be worth over $100,000 if kept in pristine condition. Rarer oddball issues like the 1963 Fleer football wax box set have individual cards selling for upwards of $50,000 as well.

In basketball, the most iconic rookie cards come from the 1950s, when the NBA was just starting to gain popularity. Star rookies like Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Jerry West and Elgin Baylor had their rookie cards produced during this era by Bowman and Fleer. These vintage basketball cards in top condition can be worth five figures or more. A 1957 Topps Wilt Chamberlain rookie card in near mint condition recently sold at auction for $138,000.

Other valuable basketball cards include rare promotional issues from the 1970s featuring stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Julius Erving, and Magic Johnson. Complete high-numbered 1970s Topps and Fleer basketball sets can sell for over $10,000. Rarer oddball issues produced regionally are also highly sought after, such as the 1967 Kansas City Royals team set featuring Jerry West which has individual cards valued at $5,000+.

The three most collectible team sports for trading cards – baseball, football, and basketball – all have iconic vintage cards worth five and six figures depending on the player, year, condition, and rarity factors. While it’s unlikely today’s modern cards will ever reach those value levels, certain star rookies like Lebron James, Tom Brady, Mike Trout and others may someday be worth thousands in pristine condition decades from now. Condition remains the most important factor when appraising the value of any vintage sports card from the 1950s to 1980s era. With the growth of the memorabilia market, the rarest finds can break records for millions.

1932 US CARAMEL BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1932 US Caramel baseball cards are one of the rarest and most sought after sets in the history of baseball cards. Produced by the Ott-Litho Company in Baltimore, Maryland and inserted into caramel packs sold mainly in Baltimore and Washington D.C., the 1932 set only featured 67 total players. Due to the limited distribution area and the fact many of the cards were destroyed by the sticky caramel, very few of the original cards have survived to the present day. Only two complete sets are known still intact today.

The Ott-Litho Company was founded in 1890 and primarily produced lithographed labels, wrappers, boxes, and other packaging materials. In the early 1930s, they began inserting small lithographed baseball cards into their caramel packs as a promotional item to help boost sales. The 1932 set featured 67 players, including legends like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, and Al Simmons on the front. The cards were approximately 2 1/4 inches by 1 3/4 inches in size, printed lithographically, and contained no statistics or personal information on the back. Given the time period, all the players featured were stars of the previous decade of the 1920s.

While the exact print run is unknown, experts believe only a couple hundred sets may have been produced at most. The limited distribution to the Baltimore-Washington, D.C. area meant few people outside that region ever had a chance encounter one. The cards’ small size and flimsy material meant they were prone to damage from the sticky caramel. Most people at the time likely didn’t place value on such a minor promotion insert and the vast majority were destroyed. Surviving high grade copies from the set are exceedingly rare today.

By the late 1930s, the demand for baseball cards had grown into a large nationwide market. Topps Chewing Gum and Goudey Gum Company led the way in modern mass produced baseball card sets inserted into bubblegum. The Ott-Litho 1932 caramel issue would remain relatively obscure for decades. It wasn’t until the 1950s–1960s that serious adult collectors began searching through oldattics, basements and shops trying to piece together early 20th century tobacco, candy, etc. baseball card sets.

Two complete sets of the 1932 Ott-Litho caramels were discovered intact in the 1950s. One set changed hands a few times before landing in the collection of Texas oilman and legendary card collector Ray Nemec in the 1960s. The other set was found sealed in the original manila storage envelope at a Baltimore flea market in the 1970s. From there it entered the collection of Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson. Both sets would go on to set record prices when sold at auction decades later.

In recent decades, the 1932 set has taken on mythical proportions due its extreme rarity and historical significance. In addition to the two complete sets, only about 25-30 loose Near Mint cards are known today according to the latest population report. The set has been the jewel of many great collections and broken several individual price records at auction over the years. A mint Babe Ruth from the set sold for $179,000 in 1996. In recent memory, a Near Mint Lou Gehrig traded hands for over $400,000 in 2016.

Today, a complete 1932 Ott-Litho Caramel baseball card set in top condition would be valued well over $1 million according to industry insiders. Single cards in unsurpassed Mint condition could potentially achieve seven figure valuations as well. While never the most visually impressive set design, its charm lies in the allure of being the earliest known baseball card insert promotion. Scarcity and history have elevated the 1932 issue to the pinnacle of rarity and desirability among collectors today. Nearly 90 years later, these flimsy lithographed cards still fascinate with their profound link to the early 20th century national pastime.

ESPN BASEBALL CARDS

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ESPN Baseball Card History

ESPN has had a long history of producing sports trading cards focused around Major League Baseball. What started as an experimental niche product in the late 1980s has grown into one of the most popular modern card lines in the industry. Here we will explore the origins and evolution of ESPN baseball cards over the past three decades.

In 1987, ESPN was still a fledgling cable network trying to find its footing and establish itself as the premier destination for sports fans. Network executives recognized the popularity of sports cards among collectors and saw an opportunity to leverage the ESPN brand into the burgeoning trading card market. Their initial set that year was called “ESPN Baseball ’87” and featured current players from that season. The cards had a distinctive graphic design with a focus on action shots and bright primary colors that stood out from traditional card designs of the time.

Distribution was limited for that first set as ESPN was just dipping their toes in the card-making waters. The initial positive response encouraged them to continue producing an annual baseball card release. In 1988 they followed up with “ESPN Baseball ’88” which expanded the checklist of players and introduced rookie cards and prospect cards of up-and-coming minor leaguers. Distribution was increased through partnerships with major hobby shops and card shows. By 1989 ESPN baseball cards were becoming a recognized brand in the industry.

The 1990s saw tremendous growth for ESPN cards as their popularity skyrocketed. Several factors contributed to this success. First, ESPN was ascending as the leading sports media company during this decade. Their television programming and multimedia platforms exposed millions of new fans to the ESPN brand each year. Second, the baseball card market was booming overall during the early 90s collector bubble. Third, ESPN cards stood out from competitors with innovative insert sets focused on special events, achievements and performance stats.

Some of their most iconic 90s inserts included “This Week in Baseball”, “Home Run Leaders”, “Rookie of the Year Candidates”, and “All-Star MVP”. They also released themed sets like “ESPN Hall of Fame” honoring legendary players. Rival brands tried to copy ESPN’s insert formula but none could match the authenticity of combining America’s pastime with the ESPN brand that fans trusted. By the mid-90s, ESPN baseball cards had become a staple in the annual release schedule and were among the top-selling brands each year.

As the collector craze peaked and then crashed in the late 90s, ESPN cards weathered the downturn better than most competitors thanks to maintaining strong fundamentals. They continued focusing on current players, quality photography, and innovative specialty cards. In the 2000s, they kept pace with the transition to direct sales through their website and other online retailers. Some of their most popular modern releases have been “ESPN 25th Anniversary”, “ESPN Legends”, and retrospective sets honoring unforgettable MLB seasons and events.

In the 2010s, while print runs declined overall, ESPN cards found new audiences through social media exposure of hit cards. Popular young stars like Mike Trout and Bryce Harper gained many new fans who collected ESPN rookies and prospects of those players. Special autograph and memorabilia cards in high-end products attracted adult collectors with disposable income. Through it all, ESPN has stayed dedicated to celebrating America’s pastime through the unique lens of their sports media expertise. As baseball (and card collecting) evolves into the future, ESPN cards will surely continue to be a mainstay in the hobby.

In summary, ESPN baseball cards have come a long way from humble beginnings in the late 1980s. Through innovative design, special inserts focusing on stats and milestones, and authentic alignment with America’s favorite pastime, ESPN cards rose to the top of the trading card industry in the 1990s boom and have endured as a leading brand for over 30 years. Their ability to synergize sports media coverage with collectibles has kept ESPN baseball at the forefront of the hobby.

MOST VALUABLE 2023 BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman Chrome baseball card set was just released in late May 2023, marking the start of the rising rookie class’s journey to stardom. While it’s still far too early to know which 2023 rookies will emerge as the biggest stars, history shows that top talents like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ronald Acuña Jr. gained fame and value from their impressive debut campaigns. Within the new Bowman Chrome set lies tantalizing prospects that could yield immense returns if they fulfill lofty expectations on MLB fields. Let’s examine some of the most coveted and valuable rookie cards from the highly-anticipated release that collectors and investors are already scouting.

Druw Jones, CF, Atlanta Braves (Base – $99.99): As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft and son of 10-time Gold Glove winner Andruw Jones, Druw arrives with tremendous pedigree and potential. Still just 19, the toolsy center fielder shows five-tool skills and remarkable athleticism. He excelled during his pro debut season, slashing .324/.427/.570 with 5 home runs over 34 games in rookie ball. His sparkling defensive abilities and bloodlines make him one of the top prospects in the minors. With the Braves also holding him in high regard, Jones has an organization behind him primed for long-term success. If he develops into the all-around star many forecast, his rookie cards—especially prized autographed and numbered parallels—could net collectors enormous returns down the road.

Termarr Johnson, SS, Atlanta Braves (Base – $74.99): Ranked as Atlanta’s third best prospect by MLB Pipeline entering 2023, the 19-year-old shortstop turned heads by batting .349 with 4 homers over 33 games as a pro rookie in 2022. Johnson was considered one of the steals of the 2022 draft as the Mets selected him in the fourth round out of high school before he opted not to sign. The Braves then snagged him in the second round and he wasted no time proving that decision wise. With tantalizing power potential and strong reviews of his defense at a premium position, Johnson is poised to rise up prospect rankings quickly. If he develops into an everyday shortstop, his Bowman Chrome cards—like prized autographed or serial numbered versions—could pay off mightily in future years.

Gavin Cross, OF, Kansas City Royals (Base – $74.99): As a two-way star at Virginia Tech who batted .333 with 21 home runs as a sophomore, Cross further established himself as one of the biggest prospects in the 2022 draft class. The 6-foot-6 outfielder then thrived during his pro debut this season by slashing .333/.433/.636 with 12 homers over 62 games in A-ball. The Royals regarded him highly enough to select him No. 9 overall and he currently ranks as their top prospect and one of the best in the minors. Cross is a five-tool talent who could develop into an annual All-Star and take the MLB by storm. His 2023 Bowman Chrome cards are coveted by collectors hoping to snag a future superstar from the earliest stages.

Michael Harris II, OF, Atlanta Braves (Base – $99.99): Though not a true rookie after playing in 38 games for the Braves in 2022, Harris remains eligible for 2023 rookie cards since he didn’t exceed the 130 at-bat threshold for rookie status last season. The 21-year-old outfielder made an instant impact by batting .297 with 11 home runs and a .838 OPS as Atlanta’s starting center fielder down the stretch. Now firmly entrenched in the Braves’ long-term plans and touted as one of baseball’s top young talents, Harris could be primed for a star-making sophomore season. His 2023 Bowman Chrome RC’s retain significance as the earliest issues and command premiums as Harris’ stock continues rising alongside Atlanta’s championship window.

Eury Pérez, SS, Cincinnati Reds (Base – $74.99): The Reds hoped to nab a future star when they inked the then-17-year-old shortstop from the Dominican Republic to a $4.5 million signing bonus in 2021. Blessed with elite acrobatic skills in the field and a smooth left-handed swing, Pérez batted .291 with 9 steals during his pro debut season stateside in 2022. Still just 19, he ranks as Cincinnati’s third overall prospect and one of the most coveted international signings of his class. If Pérez continues developing as hoped and blossoms into a young impact player, his prized 2023 Bowman Chrome cards could capture immense gains while chronicling his rise.

Emerson Hancock, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Base – $49.99): A former first rounder of the Braves in 2020, Hancock’s career was sidetracked a bit by injuries before Seattle acquired him from Atlanta in the 2021 Trade Deadline deal. Still just 22, the promising 6-foot-4 righty showed his vast potential by firing 66 innings with a 3.59 ERA between Double and Triple-A this season. Blessed with four quality pitches including a diving curveball, he enters 2023 as Seattle’s fourth-rated prospect and could potentially contribute to their promising young rotation soon. If Hancock maintains health and fulfills his once lofty draft billing, his 2023 Bowman Chrome RCs could pay dividends as an early voucher.

Gunnar Henderson, 3B, Baltimore Orioles (Base – $99.99): Ranked by many as the top prospect in all of baseball heading into 2022, Henderson garnered wider acclaim by batting .312 with 11 home runs between Double and Triple-A at age 21 this season. A switch-hitting third baseman with burgeoning power and advanced plate approach, the 2019 second rounder looks poised to anchor Baltimore’s rebuild for years to come. Henderson totaled 24 games in the majors as well for a glimpse of his prodigious talents. With multi-year superstardom prognosticated if all continues clicking, a prized 2023 Bowman Chrome auto or 1/1 could appreciate exponentially as he scales the sport’s ranks.

Bryson Stott, SS, Philadelphia Phillies (Base – $49.99): Though not a true rookie after playing in 94 games for Philadelphia in 2022, Stott remains eligible in 2023 as he didn’t exceed the 130 at-bat cutoff like Michael Harris II. The 24-year-old shortstop showed encouraging signs of blossoming into an everyday contributor by slashing .234/.320/.373 as a rookie. While Stott may develop more into a versatile semi-regular than an MVP-caliber force, his 2023 Bowman Chrome base RCs could still gain value as an early chronicler of his career and playing time with a perennial contender.

Cade Horton, RHP, Chicago Cubs (Base – $74.99): As the seventh overall pick in the 2022 draft out of Oklahoma, Horton boasts what evaluators called the “best pure stuff” of any arm in his class. Armed with a triple-digit fastball and nasty slider combo, the 21-year-old righty excelled during his draft-year debut by fanning 45 over 31 innings between rookie ball and Low-A. Given the Cubs’ track record of developing arms and Horton’s huge ceiling, he has sky-high potential. If everything comes together, his 2023 Bowman Chrome RCs could become exceptionally valued long-term holdings for collectors there from the very first page.

Brooks Lee, 3B, San Diego Padres (Base – $99.99): The 8th overall pick in 2022 from Cal Poly, Lee opened eyes during his first pro season by batting .326/.398/.587 with 6 homers over 40 games between rookie ball and Low-A. A smooth-swinging left-handed hitter with a loose athletic frame, the 22-year-old third baseman ranked top-5 in many pre-draft rankings for good reason. He already looks ahead of schedule developing and could push quickly as San Diego’s third-best prospect. Collectors are taking notice of Lee’s 2023 Bowman Chrome cards, hoping to secure an early piece of what might become a true sterling MLB career.

Cam Collier, 3B, Cincinnati Reds (Base – $99.99): The 18th overall pick in 2022 out of Chipola JC, Collier showcased impressive tools and polish by slashing .271/.368/.527 over 33 games in his professional introduction. Still just 19, the left-handed hitting third baseman possesses a well-rounded profile and sky-high ceiling that could carry him far if development continues smoothly. Already rated as Cincinnati’s fourth-best prospect, Collier’s prized Bowman Chrome rookie cards could yield substantial profits if he rises up as a cornerstone player for their rebuilding efforts in the years ahead.

While it’s still very early in the careers of these promising prospects, history shows that superstar talents often first shine in the eyes of collectors with their rookie cards. For investors and enthusiasts scouting baseball’s next great talents, some of the 2023 Bowman Chrome cards of Druw Jones, Gunnar Henderson, Brooks Lee, and other top prospects offer enticing opportunities to get in from the ground floor on potential future Hall of Famers. Of course, investing always carries risk with no guarantees of success. But

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS NYC

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Selling Baseball Cards in New York City

New York City has always been a hotbed for sports fandom and memorabilia collecting. With two MLB teams calling the five boroughs home, baseball has long reigned as the most popular sport. As such, New York is one of the biggest markets in the country for selling baseball cards. Whether you have a collection from your childhood you want to cash in on or you’re looking to break into the hobby as a dealer, NYC offers opportunities to move cards at high volumes and turn a profit.

There are a few different avenues you can take to sell baseball cards in the city. The first is heading to one of the many hobby shops that cater to collectors. Staten Island’s Northfield Trading Company and Brooklyn’s All Star Memorabilia are two shops that have buyers on site daily looking to add to their collections. They handle everything from common cards to game-used jerseys. Prices are determined through negotiations but shops typically offer 50-75% of a card’s market value depending on condition and demand.

Another local outlet is the legendary Beckett’s Cards & Collectibles on Canal Street in lower Manhattan. As one of the oldest shops in the city, Beckett’s has the most extensive inventory and sees collectors from all over the world. Their team of graders and experts can properly value even the rarest finds. Consignment is common here and you’ll get a percentage once your item sells. Just be aware that the shop takes a commission themselves.

For a true auction experience, look to companies like Lelands or Heritage Auctions which hold live bidding sessions on game-used gear, autographs and vintage cards in New Jersey a few times a year. You set a reserve and if the final bid meets or exceeds it, the sale goes through with fees subtracted. This method can yield the highest prices but involves more risk if the item doesn’t meet expectations. There are also frequent card shows at venues like the Brooklyn Expo Center where hundreds of dealers convene all under one roof.

Selling online through peer-to-peer marketplaces is very popular as well. Sites like eBay and Mercari give collectors global reach to find cards from any era. But you’ll need to carefully package, photograph and describe your cards to sell efficiently. Fees of 10-15% are standard, along with any shipping costs. For rarer things, a dedicated auction on a platform may spark bidding wars that drive prices up. The Baseball Card Exchange on Facebook has many NYC area members actively buying, selling and trading daily too.

You’ll want to do your due diligence when pricing items no matter the venue. Check recent eBay “sold” listings and price guides from PSA, Beckett and Blowout to understand estimates based on condition and player demand. Grading from authorities like PSA adds validation and bumps value exponentially, so it’s worthwhile to send prized cards off for authentication when possible. Always clearly describe any flaws with photos too for transparency with buyers.

Certain seasons, players and sets hold more intrinsic worth in the marketplace for NYC collectors. Anything related to the local Yankees and Mets will typically attract premiums. The post-war era starting in the late 1940s remains a nostalgia sweet spot along with the iconic 1952 Topps set and legendary rookies of the 1960s. Michael Jordan’s 1994 SP Authentic baseball card debut is coveted by cross-sport fans as is anything signed by the legends at card shows in the city.

With diligent research into current trends and conditions, a baseball card collection can turn into a profitable side business for local hobbyists to enjoy. New York’s vibrant community and competitive marketplace offer motivated sellers opportunities to move valuable pieces and make a tidy sum. Whether dealing as a longtime collector downsizing or entering as an ambitious merchant, with smart pricing, promotion and persistence, cards can certainly be cashed in on within the five boroughs.

VALUE OF TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1980

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The 1980 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the modern era. Produced at the dawn of the 1980s, the 1980 Topps set captured a pivotal time for the sport of baseball and contained some of the game’s all-time great players who were entering or in the prime of their careers. While packs of these cards could be found for 50 cents back in the day, certain star rookie cards and gem mint condition veterans have appreciated greatly over the past 40 plus years.

The 1980 Topps set contains 792 total cards, with a dramatic photo on the front of each and player stats and info on the back. Some of the rookie cards in the set that have gained immense value include Darrell Porter, Joe Charboneau, Tim Raines, Ozzie Smith, Bobby Grich, and Mike Schmidt. The true heavy hitters in terms of value are centered around two star rookies – Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs. Ripken’s iconic rookie card is one of the most desirable in the hobby, with even low grade examples demanding several hundred dollars due to his iconic Iron Man status and Hall of Fame career. Meaningful examples can sell for thousands. Meanwhile, Wade Boggs rookie is also exceedingly valuable given his eventual 3000 hit milestone and championship winning career.

In addition to the star rookies, the 1980 set contains Hall of Famers and all-time greats entering their primes such as Mike Schmidt, George Brett, Nolan Ryan, Dave Winfield, Andre Dawson, and Rickey Henderson. High graded versions of these players’ cards have exploded in value in recent years. For example, a PSA 10 graded Schmidt sold for over $12,000 in early 2021 given his status as a Philadelphia icon and 3 MVP winner. Likewise, a PSA 10 George Brett topped $8,000 at auction in 2020. The sheer talent level and pedigree of players contained makes 1980 a stand-out vintage set.

Beyond the star players, there are several other factors that contribute to the strong demand and price points 1980 Topps cards command in today’s booming market. Firstly, production numbers were higher in the late 70s/early 80s versus the 1950s, making vintage cards from this era much more obtainable to advanced collectors. Condition sensitive buyers still lust after true gem mint specimens not readily found. Secondly, the large size and bright colorful photography make 1980 Topps viscerally appealing to collectors. When viewed through modern collecting lenses, the set captures a nostalgic sports aesthetic. Lastly, the vintage card market has grown exponentially, leading to rising values across the board – but especially for sets featuring players with storied careers like ‘80s greats Wade Boggs and Cal Ripken Jr.

While the true vintage rookie cards and PSA 10 Hall of Famer gems pull huge sums, there is value throughout the entire 1980 Topps set in today’s market. For example, a raw common player card in estimated Very Good-Excellent condition can still demand $5-10. This represents a huge increase from just a few short years ago when the same card may have sold for just a dollar. And mint condition common cards can fetch $15-30 depending on player and demand. Even team and manager/coach cards have appreciated as accessories to complete rainbow sets. In general, grade is king – but the rich history and talent level contained makes 1980 Topps a blue-chip long term vintage investment nearly 40 years after initial production. As the cardboard fortunes of stars like Ripken, Boggs and Brett continue to grow, so will price points for this iconic release.

The 1980 Topps baseball card set serves as a snapshots of raw potential and superstar talent just before a new decade dawned. While packs were affordable 40 years ago, certain gems in this collection have exploded in value – especially those bearing the rookie likeness of Hall of Famers and the game’s icons like Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs. Factors like larger print runs, nostalgic design aesthetic, and fast growing market demand have also contributed to the strong collectible market for 1980 Topps today. For savvy vintage investors, this set remains one of the top recommended issues from the modern era to hold long term for future appreciation.

2023 TOPPS SERIES 2 CHECKLIST BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is scheduled for release in early August, continuing Topps’ iconic flagship baseball card lineup for the new season. Like prior Series 2 sets, this checklist will feature a blend of rookie cards, stars from the first half of the season, and inserts highlighting special editions.

With the season past its midpoint, Topps Series 2 is renowned for introducing the prospect call-ups and debuting rookies that have emerged over the summer months. Some of the biggest young names expected in this year’s set include catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles, outfielder Julio Rodríguez of the Seattle Mariners, and pitcher Hunter Greene of the Cincinnati Reds. All three players have made impressive impressions in their first full MLB campaigns and are poised to become cornerstone franchise talents going forward.

In addition to star rookies, past 30 Series 2 checklists have highlighted veterans enjoying breakout campaigns or returning from injury in memorable fashion. Some early candidates for inclusion based on first half performance include Yankees slugger Aaron Judge as he chases the single season home run record, Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw in his walk year, and Giants first baseman Brandon Belt who is thriving in a contract season at age 34. Veteran two-way contributions are always well represented in Topps Series 2.

Autograph and memorabilia cards will again be a major part of the allure for this year’s Series 2 checklist. Topps has steadily increased the quantity of autographed and memorabilia cards inserted in their baseball sets each year to meet growing collector demand. While base autographs will focus on stars, rookies, and breakouts, highly coveted 1/1 autograph parallel variants seem destined to feature household names like Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout, and Juan Soto. Memorabilia cards have also become more creative in recent years, incorporating unique material like game-used batting gloves, catcher’s gear, and even bases.

Topps also builds anticipation each year with innovative insert sets exclusive to Series 2 packaging. Recent standouts have included the annual Topps NOW cards recreating iconic real-time MLB moments from the current season. Another staple is the Topps ’86 inserts reimagining current players in the iconic design from that era. Additional unique inserts in past Series 2 checklists have paid tribute to MLB milestones, All-Star games, postseason heroes, and prime seasons from the living legends of the sport. The scope and subjects of these inserts evolve annually to excite collectors both casual and ardent.

Beyond base cards and inserts, the die-cut and refractors parallel sets within Series 2 are built for longevity as highly sought premium versions. In 2021, the most valuable parallels skewed towards die-cuts focused on rookie phenoms like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Nolan Arenado in their early career phases. For 2023, collectors can expect similar parallels spotlighting current wunderkinds ready to ascend like Rodríguez, Greene, Rutschman and more in parallels that enhance playability and long-term retention of value.

As always, the backbone of any Topps baseball release is the base card checklist highlighting every player on a Major League roster from opening day. With roster fluctuations constant, Series 2 ensures all contributing names get included over the duration of a full campaign. Veterans, prospects, and everyone in between receive due representation which preserves the universal appeal and long-term collecting scope of the Topps flagship brand.

The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card release is on pace to maintain the set’s stature as a collectors’ most anticipated midseason infusion. With another summer of exciting MLB action unfolding daily, this checklist promises to encapsulate all the emerging storylines and rising young talents coming into focus industrywide. Between the stars on base cards and the level of inserts, parallels, autographs and more in specialty products, Series 2 looks to once again satisfy veterans and newcomers alike amongst the hobby’s expansive baseball community.

WHATNOT BASEBALL CARDS

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So-called “whatnot baseball cards” have an interesting history in the world of card collecting. While today they may seem looked down upon by purists, they actually played an important role in introducing new generations to the hobby and keeping interest alive during darker times.

The term “whatnot” began cropping up in the 1970s, referring to any oddball cards that didn’t quite fit established standards. This included promotional cards from non-sports entities, original illustrations not linked to any specific brand, and even hand-drawn cards swapped among community groups just for fun.

At the time, the heyday of the bubblegum era was firmly in the past. New sets focused more on stats than images, and the traditional card manufacturers slowed production amid flagging youth interest. Meanwhile, inflation had driven up prices on vintage stars, putting iconic rookies out of reach for many casual fans.

Into this environment stepped passionate amateurs willing to get creative. Towns across America saw homemade card shows and swaps where unique creations could be shared and admired without concern over perceived “official” status or financial worth. This helped keep the archetypal thrill of the cardboard crack alive wherever it could still be found.

In places without local card shops or access to the latest drops, cheaply printed “whatnots” were treasured finds offering a sporting connection however rudimentary. Communities rallied around personal touchstones like hand-drawn rookie cards for the local high school baseball standouts. Such inclusiveness kept fandom multigenerational through hard times.

To the distress of elitists, the ’70s also witnessed rising popularity for promotionals outside traditional sports confines. Cards depicting musicians, actors, or comic book characters found eager collectors among their built-in fan bases. Creative crossover themes merged passions too, like western hero “Baseball Billy” or sci-fi leagues of the future.

While faced with accusations of undermining scarce authenticity and dilution, proponents argued these “whatnots” actually revived industrywide demand. Newly introduced audiences developed a fondness that sometimes led them to explore vintage genres as well. In essence, odd specimens acted as sampling points expanding the overall customer pool.

Nostalgia proved another saving grace. The emerging boom in nostalgia fueled renewed obsession with even the kitschiest imaginings from days gone by. Roadside attractions like 1980s “Old Cardboard” offered fun-house style cardboard shrines. Publishers cashed in too with compilations reviving long-forgotten oddballs and curios from generations past.

Mainstream appreciation emerged alongside market rebounds starting in the 1980s. Regional indie labels received widespread praise for artistic creativity and local cultural documentation, gaining collector legitimacy. Museum exhibits soon saluted the eccentric diversity keeping imagination in baseball alive during lean decades.

Today, “whatnot” connotations have softened to refer more neutrally to any obscure or unusual issues. Enthusiasts argue such variety enriches understanding through documenting untold stories and subcultures represented. Online communities flourish sharing scans and tales of bizarre finds from yesteryear, stirring fresh nostalgia even without slick packaging or endorsements.

While blue-chip rookies remain priced out of reach for most fans, oddball alternatives offer an accessible point of entry. Current indy labels carry on the homemade tradition through small print runs celebrating everything from mascots to minor league towns. And local card shows still thrive as havens where creativity and community can converge for collectors young and old alike.

So in retrospect, perhaps the derogatory “whatnot” label was unfairly cast. These cardboard curios played an invaluable role in sustaining the hobby through change, introducing new audiences, and keeping imagination in the game. Even at their fringiest, the creations still captured fandom’s spirit when official outlets faltered. And that colorful history remains central to why card collecting retains pop cultural relevance, nostalgia, and endless strands of mystery and discovery even today.