BEST TYPE OF BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to collecting baseball cards, there are many different types to choose from. While personal preference plays a big role, some card types are generally considered to be better investments or hold more value long-term. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at some of the best and most sought-after types of baseball cards for collectors.

Rookie Cards: Rookie cards, which feature a player’s first appearance in a set, are almost always the most valuable cards for any given player. This is because they capture a player at the very beginning of their career when their future potential and career trajectory is still unknown. Some of the most expensive baseball cards ever sold have been legendary players’ rookie cards from their first season, like Mike Trout’s 2009 Bowman Chrome rookie card which sold for over $400,000. Even stars who had great but not all-time great careers will still have valuable rookie cards.

Top Prospect Cards: For players not yet in the major leagues, the top prospect cards from sets like Bowman or Topps Prospects can be excellent long term investments. While they carry more risk than established MLB rookies, landing a card of a player before their debut who goes on to have a Hall of Fame career can yield enormous returns. Wander Franco and Vladimir Guerrero Jr cards from their prospect years are great examples of cards that exploded in value after they broke out.

Autograph Cards: Signed cards, especially those with on-card autographs, add a significant premium and desirability factor for collectors. The scarcer the signature, the more valuable it becomes long term. Top young stars early in their careers when signings were easier to get will have the most valuable autographs years down the line. Some examples include Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Shohei Ohtani autographs from their early years before exploding in popularity.

Topps Flagship RCs: As the longest-running and most iconic baseball card brand, Topps’ annual “Flagship” sets are considered the most prestigious by many collectors. While other brands may have more exclusive parallels or variations, the standard Topps rookie card remains the gold standard. Cards like Mickey Mantle, Ken Griffey Jr, and Bryce Harper’s Topps RCs will likely always be at the top of their respective player’s food chains in terms of value.

Numbered Parallels: Limited, serially numbered parallel card inserts within the main releases add scarcity and exclusivity. Numbered to quantities under 100 or special low numbers like 1/1 are highly sought after. Examples include prizm refractors, paper, chrome, negative refractors, and more. Stars paired with scarce parallel types and numbers can gain value exponentially over time.

Vintage Cards: For collectors looking for cards with established track records of appreciation, pre-war and early postwar tobacco era cards from the 1910s-1950s are about as “blue chip” as it gets. While the individual cards are not cheap, graded examples of stars like Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, and Ty Cobb have gained millions in value over decades. These vintage pieces are considered some of the safest long term collectibles in the industry.

Top Prospect/Draft Pick Cards: For investors looking for cards of future stars before they are stars, keeping an eye on the top draft picks and prospects’ earliest cards is a strategy that can yield great returns. Examples include cards like Bryce Harper’s first Bowman Chrome or Kris Bryant’s first Bowman Chrome that sold for under $100 but are worth thousands today. Landing cards from the likes of the last few number one overall picks like Spencer Torkelson could pay off down the line.

While personal collecting interests matter most, history shows these card types usually hold up best in terms of long term value. By focusing on the earliest cards possible of franchise players, especially those with scarcity factors, collectors stand the best chance of selecting baseball cards that will appreciate nicely with the passage of time. With patience, even modest investments in the right rookies or prospects can grow substantially.

BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY 2020 PRIZM

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The hobby of baseball card collecting has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and with that comes questions about which individual cards hold significant monetary value. While vintage cards from the 1950s and 60s will always be at the top in terms of price tags, there are plenty of modern issues that can be quite valuable as well, especially rookie cards of star players. The 2020 season saw the emergence of several young stars who are likely to have valuable rookie cards for years to come. Let’s take a look at some of the top baseball cards from 2020 that collectors should be on the lookout for and consider adding to their collections.

One of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year is the Panini Prizm set due to its flashy refractors and parallels. The 2020 Prizm baseball offering was no exception, as it featured rookie cards and parallels of many of the game’s brightest young talents. Chief among these is Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani, who has quickly become one of MLB’s most exciting players. His base Prizm rookie card can be found for $30-50, but it’s some of the parallel and autograph versions that really catch collectors’ eyes. His Prizm Silver Prizm rookie sells for $150-250, while a 1/1 Gold Prizm rookie card fetched over $2,000 on eBay. With Ohtani’s unique talents and growing popularity, his 2020 Prizm cards appear poised to retain and potentially increase in value in the coming years.

Another Angels player who made his debut in 2020 and featured prominently in Prizm is outfielder Jo Adell. While injuries limited his MLB playing time, Adell is still considered a future star and his rookie cards have found an eager collector base. His base Prizm rookie card trades for $15-25, with parallels like the Orange Prizm and Green Prizm in the $50-100 range. Autographed cards have brought over $400. Given Adell’s tools and pedigree as a former top prospect, his rookie cards could appreciate well if he breaks out in 2021 and beyond. For Angels collectors, the Ohtani and Adell Prizm rookies make for indispensable additions.

No rookie class was deeper in talent or more touted than the 2018 draft class, and several of those players made their MLB debuts in 2020 including a couple of American League Rookie of the Year candidates. One was Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Vidal Brujan, who showed elite speed and contact skills after a September callup. While he didn’t play enough to qualify for the ROY award, Brujan’s prospect status and debut have collectors high on his 2020 Prizm rookie card. The base sells for $15-25 with parallels like the Orange Prizm around $50-75. Another 2018 draftee was Miami Marlins pitcher Sixto Sanchez, who dazzled with an electric fastball-changeup combo after his own September callup. His base Prizm rookie trades for $10-15 with the Orange Prizm near $40-60 based on his outstanding potential. Both Brujan and Sanchez are poised for bigger roles in 2021, which could send their rookie card values soaring.

While the 2018 class was heralded, the 2019 draft class might not be far behind and two of its members had memorable MLB debuts in 2020. First was Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker, who had been traded from the Phillies in 2018 and lit up Triple-A before getting called up. Tucker showed prodigious power and hit over .270 in his rookie season to finish third in AL ROY voting. His base Prizm rookie trades for $15-25 with colorful parallels like the Orange and Green versions reaching $50-100. Another 2019 draftee was Miami Marlins pitcher Sixto Sanchez, who dazzled with an electric fastball-changeup combo after his own September callup. His base Prizm rookie trades for $10-15 with the Orange Prizm near $40-60 based on his outstanding potential. Both Tucker and Sanchez have All-Star ceilings and their rookie cards could climb even higher if they continue developing.

While the rookies get much of the hype in the hobby, breakout seasons from established veterans can also create valuable modern cards. One such player was Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres. Already one of baseball’s most exciting young stars, Tatis took his game to an MVP level in 2020 by hitting .277 with 17 homers and 45 RBI in 59 games. His performance has collectors flocking to his 2020 cards, including his base Topps Chrome RC which has reached over $100. But it’s his 2020 Prizm cards, like the Silver Prizm parallel, that have really captured attention, selling for $300-400 raw so far. With Tatis’ all-around skills and flair for the highlight play, he seems a sure bet to continue improving and his cards a sound investment, especially from his 2020 standout campaign.

Another veteran who broke out in a big way was Marlins outfielder Monte Harrison. Long a highly-regarded prospect, Harrison finally started to put it all together in his first extended MLB action in 2020. In 49 games he hit .230 but showed elite speed and power with 6 homers and 7 steals. The breakout has collectors high on Harrison’s rookie cards from 2017-2019 issues like Bowman, but also his 2020 Prizm cards which feature his newfound success. The base sells for $15-25 with parallels like the Orange Prizm reaching $50-75 based on renewed hope for Harrison’s star potential. If he builds on his 2020 with a full breakout season in 2021, his cards from this past year stand to gain the most.

While rookies and breakouts drive much of the hobby’s excitement, superstar seasons from perennial MVP candidates always hold value as well. One such player was Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. who took his game to new heights in 2020. In just 59 games, Tatis hit .277 with 17 homers and 45 RBIs while showing off elite defense, speed and flair. His performance has collectors flocking to his 2020 cards, with his base Topps Chrome RC reaching over $100. But it’s his 2020 Prizm cards like the Silver Prizm parallel that have really captured attention, selling for $300-400 so far raw. With Tatis’ all-around skillset and magnetic personality, he seems a lock to continue improving and his cards from what could be a landmark 2020 season appear a sound investment.

While vintage cards will always have cachet, the 2020 season saw the emergence of several young stars like Ohtani, Adell, Brujan and Sanchez whose rookie cards from issues like 2020 Prizm hold great potential. Breakouts from veterans like Tatis Jr. and Harrison have also created valuable modern cards chronicling their success. With many of these players likely to be starring for years to come, their cards from 2020 that spotlighted their arrival or breakthrough campaigns stand to appreciate steadily. For collectors, focusing on high-quality examples of these types of meaningful rookie cards and standout season issues provides an engaging way to participate in the hobby while making sound financial wagers on the future success of some of the game’s brightest young talents.

1992 DONRUSS THE ROOKIES BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1992 Donruss The Rookies baseball card set showcased the top rookie talent from the 1991 MLB season. While not quite as storied as some other rookie card releases, 1992 Donruss The Rookies featured future Hall of Famers and franchise cornerstones that have proven to grow in value with time.

The set contains 200 total cards with the majority featuring prospects and lessheralded rookies from 1991. Several superstars that went on to have incredible careers were included which has driven collector and investor interest in the years since. While initial print runs were high which kept early prices low, grading and careful preservation has unlocked latent value.

Perhaps the most notable card from the set is the Chipper Jones rookie card. As a switch-hitting, power-hitting third baseman, Chipper went on to have a first-ballot Hall of Fame career spent entirely with the Atlanta Braves. He was the 1999 NL MVP and an eight-time All-Star. High-grade Chipper Jones rookies now rank among the premier baseball cards on the market, routinely fetching four-figure prices and occasionally much more in top condition. Even well-worn raw copies still sell for hundreds due to his legacy as a franchise cornerstone.

Another top card is the Derek Jeter rookie, featuring the future Captain of the New York Yankees shortstop. While not quite as acclaimed as some of his other early Pinnacle and Stadium Club rookies, the 1992 Donruss holds significance as Jeter’s true “first” card released. Jeter would go on to a surefire Hall of Fame career winning five World Series titles while becoming the all-time hits leader for Yankees franchise. High-grade copies routinely sell for well over $1000 today showing steady appreciation.

Two other future Hall of Fame players featured are Mike Piazza and Craig Biggio. Piazza’s rookie caught during his brief tenure with the Dodgers has gained fame as he was mostly known as a Met. Meanwhile, Biggio spent his whole career with the Astros and his 3,000 hits cemented his Cooperstown plaque. Both players now have four-figure rookie cards demonstrating the value propounded over the decades.

Other notable rookies include Brad Ausmus, Mark Grudzielanek, Jason Bere, Paul Shuey, Dave Martinez, Bobby Bonilla, Damon Buford, Darren Daulton, and Cris Carpenter. While not all became superstars, many had solid MLB careers which adds to the collecting appeal of the set even outside the true star players. Memorabilia cards were also included of failed prospects like Steve Buechele adding novelty value as well.

In terms of condition, unsurprisingly most raw copies available today trade in the 5.0-7.0 range on the 10-point Beckett scale. This is largely due to the gigantic initial print run which made mint preservation over 30 years quite challenging. Examples that have earned high-grade designations of 8.0 and above through professional grading have exploded in value. A PSA/BGS 10 Chipper Jones can fetch tens of thousands. Even a 9.0 has brought six-figure sums.

Along with elite condition and star player cards, there are a few other keys that boost 1992 Donruss value. Short prints exist within the set including Alex Cole (#149) and Alan Benes (#123) amongst others. Error variations have surfaced, such as Jeff Juden’s name misspelled as “Juden” instead of “Juden”. And serial number parallel prints were distributed through hobby boxes that year which are also highly sought.

While overlooked for many years after release as young collectors lost interest, the 1992 Donruss The Rookies set has developed a very strong following of both collectors and investors. Due to the all-time great careers several of the featured rookies went on to have, key cards command premium prices reflective of their icon status in the hobby. Even for non-stars, the set represents an important snapshot of early 1990s MLB with memorabilia and parallels adding to its charm. With secure preservation and patience, the 1992 Donruss The Rookies holds promise to further appreciate over the coming decades.

TOPPS HOW MUCH ARE BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Figuring out how much Topps baseball cards are worth can be quite a challenge, as there are many factors that influence the value of any given card. The year, condition, player featured, and even market trends can all play a role in determining a price. While it’s impossible to assign set values to cards, understanding some basic principles can help collectors get a sense of whether they have a $5 common card or a true gem worth hundreds or thousands. Let’s take a deeper look at what contributes to the worth of vintage and modern Topps baseball cards.

Year of Issue

The year a Topps card was printed is one of the biggest determining factors in its potential value. Generally speaking, the older the card the more desirable and valuable it tends to be. This is simply because fewer intact examples from early Topps sets exist today compared to modern productions runs. Some iconic years that often command top dollar include:

1954 – Considered the “holy grail” of baseball cards as it was Topps’ first full baseball card release. In pristine condition, cards can sell for well into the five figures.

1957 – This is arguably the most coveted post-war vintage set. Stars like Mickey Mantle are worth thousands to the right buyer.

1952 – Another early and historic set that includes some of the first color photos on baseball cards. High-grade Mickies can reach $100k.

1969 – Known as the “rookie card” year of talent like Reggie Jackson and Tom Seaver. Their first Topps cards have broken auction records.

1988 – Marked the start of the “Junk Wax” era but also boasts rookie gems like Ken Griffey Jr.

2009 – Considered the breakpoint for the modern era. Stars like Strasburg still hold value a decade later.

Of course, there are also outliers. Rare error varieties and one-of-a-kind mistakes from any era could be worth a small fortune to collectors. But overall, the older the year the higher the odds of substantial worth.

Player Prominence

Unsurprisingly, the identity of the ballplayer featured heavily influences a card’s price. All-time greats will inherently carry higher values than replacement level players from the same set and condition. Iconic names attract serious bid wars:

Mickey Mantle – Probably the most collectible name in the sport. Fresh 1952s have reached $150,000 at auction.

Mike Trout – Currently the best active player. His 2009 rookie fetched over $400K, most for any modern baseball card.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Beloved star with some of the most iconic baseball cards ever printed, including his sought-after 1989 Upper Deck RC.

Babe Ruth – “The Sultan of Swat’s” rookie could sell for as high as $5 million in pristine condition, making it history’s costliest baseball card.

Shohei Ohtani – As a true two-way player, cards of his 2018 Topps Chrome RC debut are increasing quickly in value.

The higher the caliber of player, the more interest there will usually be from collectors. But even second-tier talent from sought-after years can hold value if graded well. Autographs can also provide a nice boost across all levels.

Condition and Grades

A card’s condition, often measured on numeric grading scales out of 10, is what separates a common copy from a valuable near-mint or gem specimen. The higher the number awarded by respected authentication companies like PSA or BGS, the more pristine and thus coveted the card becomes. Condition is king, as even a great player’s card is only worth the paper it’s printed on if damaged or worn. Here are some condition benchmarks:

PSA 10 (Gem Mint) – The pinnacle of condition, coveted for iconic cards. 1954 Mantly’s have sold for over $500k this grade.

PSA 9 (Near Mint) – Still very crisp and routinely attain a premium. A PSA 9 1952 Topps Ruth RC sold for $220k.

PSA 8 (Very Good-Excellent) – In strong demand, but values dip versus near mint.

PSA 7 or Lower – Considered played/used cards. Prices fall off significantly the more flaws or wear are evident.

Maintaining condition is so crucial because even decades-old cardboard can show surprising resiliency when seldom handled. But the wrong storage or accidental damage takes away much financial potential.

Rarity and Miscuts

Outside of all-time great players, some cards have intrinsic scarcity or quirks bringing added value. Rare variations, oddball miscuts, test prints and other manufacturing errors all command premiums in certain collecting circles:

Tiffany Mickey Mantle – Only about 50 of these rare 1954 test issues are known. Recent sales have exceeded $2 million each.

Spike Owen Error Card – A legendary 1955 error showing an incorrect photo. One graded PSA 8.5 achieved $72,600.

1969 Zoilo Versalles Backwards Name – A subtle anomaly that still sold for over $6,000 in 2018.

1968 N.L. Rookie Stars – A unique test issue with low population of under 10 known survivors. Worth at least $20,000 PSA 10.

1933 Goudey Fred Schulte Multi Back – Displaying the same image on both sides. A coveted oddity starting at 5 figures.

Holos, parallels, serial numbering and other such insert cards from the modern game are also keenly collected minorities that support premiums above base rookies.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

The collecting marketplace itself contributes to a card’s value through ever-shifting supply and demand cycles. Certain years and players rise and fall in favor among investors and enthusiasts based on current collecting trends and economic conditions:

The 1990s Boom – Spurred massive speculation in vintage cards that still sets price benchmarks today. Prices crashed following the fad.

2008 Recession – Coincided with hockey cards nearing all-time highs as a popular alternative asset. Baseball dipped but recovered.

Social Media Attention – Stars like Yadi attract new collectors, boosting the values of their early cards short-term.

Investor Confidence – When Wall Street does well, so do vintage sports assets as a stable alternative to volatile stocks.

Grading Services Backlogs – Long BGS or PSA submission wait times for modern cards limit fresh high-grade supply on the market in the short-run.

While objective conditions and characteristics are important, subjectivities around demand from fans and speculators also move the valuation needle significantly over decades. The collectibles industry enjoys unique dynamics.

Assessing the worth of any Topps baseball card requires weighing multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors. But for collectors hoping to uncover hidden treasures, understanding these principles is an excellent starting point to identify potential high-value sleepers in their own collections that could one day pay off. With diligent research, even commons can sometimes shed their monetary obscurity.

CHEAPEST WAY TO SHIP BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Selling baseball cards on eBay can be a fun and profitable hobby. One of the biggest expenses sellers face is shipping costs. With the right techniques, sellers can minimize shipping fees and maximize their profits. Here are some of the cheapest options for shipping baseball cards on eBay.

Plain White Envelopes

For shipping a few lightweight cards domestically within the US, a plain white envelope (PWE) is one of the most cost-effective choices. PWEs usually cost around $0.50-1 to ship. Sellers can pick them up in bulk for just pennies each. The main downside is PWEs do not provide much protection. Sellers should only use them for sturdy cards being shipped a short distance. Top-loaders or sleeve+toploader inside the PWE add an extra layer of protection.

Bubble Mailers

For a bit more protection and ability to ship more cards at once, bubble mailers are a good low-cost option. Sellers can find 4×6, 4.5×6.5, and 6×9 mailers in bulk packs online. Shipping costs usually range $2-4 depending on weight and distance. Bubble mailers provide cushioning and are less likely than PWEs to damage cards during transit. Sellers should use top-loaders or penny sleeves inside for individual cards.

Rigid Mailers

Rigid mailers are a step up from bubble mailers in terms of durability. They have a cardboard backing and are less prone to crushing than bubble mailers. Rigid mailers usually cost $1-2 more to ship than bubbles due to their heavier weight. Sizes range from 4×6 to 9×12. Rigids are a good choice for higher value cards that absolutely must arrive undamaged. Toploaders inside provide an extra layer of protection.

USPS First Class Package

The USPS First Class Package service provides tracking and is relatively inexpensive for lightweight shipments under 16 ounces traveling within the US. Rates typically range $3-6 depending on distance and package dimensions/weight. Sellers can use small boxes, polymailers, or other rigid mailers and stay under the First Class weight limit. This level of service offers more security than basic stamps.

USPS Priority Mail

For shipments over 1 pound or traveling longer distances, USPS Priority Mail often provides the best rate per ounce. Flat-rate boxes in various sizes offer fixed pricing regardless of weight. For example, a Small Flat Rate Box ships anywhere in the US for around $8. Larger Regional Rate Boxes are also economical for heavier shipments. With Priority Mail, cards receive faster estimated delivery times than First Class as well.

Media Mail

Media Mail through the USPS is only eligible for “print media” like books, printed music, and other publications. Since the USPS considers sports/trading cards to be collectibles rather than publications, Media Mail cannot legally be used to ship cards. Some sellers still use Media Mail and have reported no issues. But there is always a risk of the package being inspected and upcharged to Priority Mail rates if found to not meet Media Mail criteria.

International Shipping

Shipping cards internationally requires more planning and usually costs significantly more than domestic shipments. Sellers need to select the proper carrier like USPS International First Class Package, USPS Priority Mail International, or a private carrier like FedEx or UPS depending on the destination country. Rates vary widely but generally start around $12-15 for lighter First Class shipments to Canada/Mexico and $15-25 to Europe/Asia using USPS. Proper customs forms are also required.

With careful packaging and selection of affordable shipping methods like PWEs, bubble mailers, flat rate boxes, and First Class Package, sellers can keep their baseball card shipping costs low on eBay. This allows for more competitive pricing that draws in buyers while still earning a profit. Taking time to test different options is worthwhile to find the most cost-effective shipping solutions.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 80s AND 90s

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The 1980s and 1990s were a magical time for baseball cards. Baseball itself was thriving, with superstars like Mike Schmidt, Wade Boggs, Roberto Clemente and Cal Ripken Jr. lighting up the diamond on a nightly basis. Meanwhile, the baseball card industry was booming with kids (and adults!) flocking to stores to rip open packs in search of their favorite players.

Thanks to the demand, many cards from this era have increased significantly in value over the past few decades. And while there are far too many valuable 80s and 90s baseball cards to list all of them, here are 15 of the most coveted and expensive specimens from that time period that still hold major financial worth today for collectors:

1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner – This might be the most iconic and valuable baseball card of all time. The ultra-rare T206 Wagner is considered the holy grail for collectors. In near-mint condition, one of these classic cigarette cards can fetch over $3 million at auction. Even poorly conditioned versions still sell for six figures.

1952 Topps Mantle Rookie – Mickey Mantle was one of the first true baseball superstars and his iconic Topps rookie card is arguably the most sought-after of the post-war period. High grade examples have sold for well over $1 million.

1987 Fleer Michael Jordan RC – While not a true “baseball” card, Jordan’s NBA rookie played a major role in the trading card boom of the late 80s/early 90s. High-end PSA/BGS 10 Jordans have crossed the $400k mark.

1975 Topps Nolan Ryan – The “Ryan Express” piled up strikeouts like no other and his colorful 1975 Topps rookie is among the most valuable from the 70s. Near-mint copies can reach $100k.

1971 Topps Hank Aaron – Hammerin’ Hank’s Topps card from his 715th home run season remains hugely popular. Pristine PSA 10 versions have topped $50,000 at auction.

1972 Topps Johnny Bench – The Hall of Fame catcher’s iconic smiling rookie card from his back-to-back MVP seasons in the 70s. High-grade copies trade in the $20k range.

1964 Topps Bob Gibson – Considered one of the most intimidating pitchers ever, Gibson’s rookie card is universally recognized as one of the 60s standouts. Near-mint examples command $15k+.

2003 Bowman Chrome Mike Trout RC – Trout emerged as a true superstar and his prized Bowman Chrome rookie from over a decade ago has exploded in value. PSA 10s have crossed $400k.

1984 Donruss Wade Boggs RC – Hitting machine Boggs’ iconic first card remains a beloved piece for Red Sox collectors. Pristine copies change hands for $5k-10k.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. RC – The Kid was a can’t-miss prospect and his debut Upper Deck card became immensely popular. High-grade Griffeys still trade for $3k-5k.

1992 Leaf Ken Griffey Jr. Gold Refractor RC – Considered the pinnacle Griffey rookie, these extremely rare gold parallel refractor cards are true holy grails. Just a few have ever crossed $100k at auction.

1989 Bowman Barry Bonds RC – Before the controversy, Bonds was already a five-tool star in Pittsburgh. His popular Bowman rookie holds steady value of $1k-3k for top grades.

1988 Fleer Deion Sanders RC – Before he was “Prime Time,” Sanders was a budding baseball/football star. High-end copies of his challenging Fleer card reach $1,500+.

1991 Upper Deck Griffey Jr. Stadium Club Chrome Refractor RC – Ultra high-end parallel of one of the most iconic 90s rookies. Near-pristine versions change hands for $5k+.

1993 Finest Refractor Alex Rodriguez RC – The young A-Rod was already a phenom and his beautiful Finest Refractor rookie remains a blue chip investment card today worth $2k-4k.

This just grazes the surface of valuable baseball cards from the 1980s and 1990s. Many rookies, stars and even commons from this era appreciate steadily over time as more collectors join the hobby. With dedication and patience, building a complete rainbow set of any of these classic cards is certainly a worthwhile investment to enjoy for years to come. The cards themselves are pop culture artifacts preserving the history and legends of baseball.

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TOPPS 1987 BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was the 66th annual complete set released by Topps and featured cards on players from that 1987 Major League Baseball season. It was the height of the “Junk Wax” era in the late 1980s that saw baseball cards mass produced at unprecedented levels which flooded the market. The 1987 Topps set is still considered a classic among collectors and contains many iconic cards that remain popular to this day.

The set contains 792 total cards including 528 base cards, 264 traded/update cards, and several special subsets. The design of the cards featured a simple white border with blue and red color blocks on either side containing stats and other information. The player’s photo was centered in the middle of the card over a baseball diamond pattern background. On the back was a career stats table and occasional puzzle pieces that could be collected to solve word games.

Some of the notable rookie cards in the 1987 Topps set included Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, Dennis Eckersley, David Cone, and Ben McDonald. Larkin, Glavine, and Eckersley in particular went on to have Hall of Fame careers and their rookie cards remain highly sought after by collectors. Other stars featured on the base cards included Don Mattingly, Kirby Puckett, Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden, Ozzie Smith, and Ryne Sandberg among many others.

The 1987 set is also recognized for its memorable traded and update cards that document late season player transactions. For example, the Nolan Ryan traded card shows him with the Houston Astros after being dealt from the Mets. Other notable traded cards include Steve Carlton going to the Indians, Keith Hernandez to the Mets, and Larry Parrish to the Rangers. The extensive number of traded and update cards help capture the dynamics of the 1987 season and roster movement.

Among the special subsets in the 1987 Topps set was “20 Season Leaders” honors the top single season statistic holders from 1966-1986 in various categories. Future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Reggie Jackson, and Mike Schmidt are prominently featured. Other inserts included league leader cards for the 1986 season, All-Star cards highlighting the 1987 midsummer classic in Oakland, and Final Edition cards of players who retired after the 1986 season like Willie McCovey.

The 1987 Topps set also contained several popular oddball inserts with novel concepts even for the Junk Wax era. These included Record Breaker cards highlighting new franchise marks, Diamond Kings fantasy subset imagining renowned players as modern day kings, and Bat-Around cards picturing players alongside oversized baseball bats in various cartoon scenarios. Such quirky bonus cards added uniqueness and collecting intrigue beyond the traditional rookie and star player base cards.

While production numbers were sky high during the late 1980s, the 1987 Topps set endures in popularity due its classic design, storied rookie cards, plethora of traded updates, and memorable special subsets. Even unopened wax boxes can still be found at affordable prices making it an achievable set for most collectors. Many consider it as one of the best and most representative issues from the peak of the “Junk Wax” era. While individual cards may not accrue big investment value, the 1987 Topps baseball cards as a complete set remains prized by vintage collectors. Over 30 years later it continues to deliver affordable nostalgia and features some of the game’s true icons from that memorable season.

While 1987 Topps baseball cards were among the most mass produced of all time, the complete 792 card set still holds significance for its ability to capture the 1987 MLB season. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, extensive traded updates, creative inserts, and recognizable stars on each card give the issue lasting charm and appeal. The simplistic yet emblematic design lends itself well to the nostalgia of the era. For both casual collectors and investors, the 1987 Topps baseball cards remain a defining set from the height of the “Junk Wax” boom that has deservedly earned its place as a priceless piece of cardboard pop culture history.

SALE MY BASEBALL CARDS

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Selling Baseball Cards: A Guide to Get the Most Money

Baseball cards have been collected by fans for over 130 years and remain one of the most popular collectibles in the world. With tens of thousands of different cards produced throughout the decades, most people have boxes of cards tucked away that they want to sell. To get top dollar for your baseball card collection, there are certain steps you need to take. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of evaluating your cards, finding buyers, establishing a price, and making the sale to ensure you maximize the money you receive.

The first step is to take inventory of exactly what cards you have. This involves carefully going through every single card and making note of key details like the player name, year, brand (Topps, Fleer, etc.), and most importantly the condition. Grading the condition from Mint to Poor on a 1-10 scale will be crucial for establishing value. You’ll also want to note any rare serial numbers, autographs, or other unusual attributes. Organize your cards by year, brand, and sport to make evaluating them efficiently. This inventory will be used for researching values.

Once you have a complete list of your baseball cards, you’ll need to research the current market value for each. The best way is using online price guide databases like BaseballCardPedia, BaseballCardPrices, or eBay’s “Sold Listings.” Input the player name, year, brand, and grade to find recent sale prices for comparable mint or graded cards. Be sure to only compare to prices from the last 6 months, as values can fluctuate. Note these estimated values on your inventory for reference when establishing asking prices. Higher grade cards in excellent condition often sell for 5-10X cards in poor shape.

Now it’s time to consider how you want to sell your baseball cards. The three main options are online auction sites like eBay, local card shops, or larger collectible marketplaces. eBay allows you to reach the biggest pool of potential buyers worldwide but requires listing fees. Local shops offer convenience but may offer lower bulk prices. Online marketplaces find a middle ground. Whichever you choose, make sure to research their specific selling policies and fees beforehand.

When listing your cards individually or in group lots, clear photos showing the front and back at high resolution are essential. Honestly describe the condition with your assigned grade and note any flaws. Provide as many details on the card as possible from your inventory for buyers to evaluate. If selling higher value cards, consider submitting top graded cards to services like PSA or Beckett to certify authenticity and condition, improving their value.

As for pricing, you’ll want to set asking prices at or slightly above the market values you previously researched. Consider lowering prices in $5 increments if a certain card or lot doesn’t sell after a week or two. Only accept payment through the site’s secure platform for your protection. Once items sell, promptly pack securely and ship with tracking to leave positive seller feedback.

The money you receive from selling vintage baseball cards individually can add up quickly. But sometimes it’s more practical to offer collections or team lots to serious collectors. Sell complete decade sets or runs for a premium over individual prices. You may also consider consigning high-value cards or full collections to reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions who have experience maximizing bids.

With patience and diligently following these guidelines, you can get top dollar returning favorite childhood cards back to the collections of passionate fans. Carefully taking your time to properly research values, list well, and reach qualified buyers ensures a smooth selling experience. So now is the perfect time to dig through those boxes of baseball memories, add up their worth, and cash in! Let me know if you have any other questions along the way.

TOP TEN EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS

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The hobby of baseball card collecting has produced some of the most valuable collectibles in the world. With over 100 years of history, certain rare and iconic baseball cards have achieved seemingly unreal price tags in the hundreds of thousands and even millions of dollars at auction. These highest prices are usually reserved for the earliest and most significant cards from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, when the fledgling hobby was just starting to take off. Let’s take a look at the top 10 most expensive baseball cards ever sold according to auction records:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – $3.12 million (2007)
The legendary Honus Wagner is widely considered the most coveted and iconic card in the hobby. His tobacco era T206 card from 1909-11 has become the standard bearer for the entire collectible industry due to its rarity, historical significance, and association with one of baseball’s earliest superstars. It’s estimated that fewer than 60 original T206 Wagners exist in high grade condition. The $3.12 million price achieved in 2007 set a new record and put this card firmly in the seven figures.

1909-11 T206 Joe Doyle – $3.24 million (2016)
Taking the number nine spot is another rare tobacco era gem from the same T206 issue as the Wagner. The Joey Doyle card features the talented Boston Doves and New York Highlanders infielder. Only one example is confirmed to still exist in mint condition, making it nearly as scarce as the Wagner. It sold for an astounding $3.24 million at auction in 2016, marking the most expensive price ever achieved for a card other than the Wagner.

1909-11 T206 Matty Alou – $1.32 million (2019)
The T206 set from 1909-11 continued to break records with this example of the speedy Puerto Rican outfielder Matty Alou. Alou played for multiple teams including the New York and Boston clubs during the tobacco era. Graded Mint 9 by SGC, it became the highest price achieved for the Alou card in the set. Its rarity and condition helped it reach $1.32 million at auction, showing how highly coveted and valuable any high grade example from this seminal issue can be.

1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee – $1.47 million (2018)
Another T206 star, first baseman Sherry Magee, made headlines with this example that sold for $1.47 million in 2018. Possessing power and speed, Magee played for the Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Doves in the early 1900s. Like his peers from the iconic tobacco set, scarcity drives the price as only a few high quality Magees are known to exist today. It set a new record for the Magee card at auction.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank – $1.53 million (2018)
One spot lower is a true Hall of Fame worthy piece of cardboard history – the hallowed T206 card of “Gettysburg Eddie” Plank. One of the stars of Connie Mack’s dynasty Athletics teams, Plank was a crafty lefty who won over 300 games in his career. This near mint example brought $1.53 million at auction, further cementing the T206 set as the holy grail for collectors. Very few of Plank’s iconic issue are known to remain in high grade condition today.

1909-11 T206 Nemo Leibold – $1.92 million (2018)
At number 5 is one of the most visually stunning cards from the vintage tobacco era – the T206 featuring outfielder and speedster Elmer “Nemo” Leibold. Graded NM-MT 8 by SGC, this historically significant card from the Dawn of modern baseball cards achieved an astounding $1.92 million hammer price in 2018. Only a handful of authentic examples are believed to still be around in comparable condition, emphasizing its incredible rarity. The color and detail of the artwork remain impressively vibrant after over 100 years.

1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson – $2.88 million (2021)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, few cards are as respected and admired as the T206 portrait of “Big Six” Christy Mathewson. Winning 373 career games and two World Series titles with the New York Giants, Mathewson was an early star and role model of the game. Graded SGC NM-MT 8, this epic card from the famed tobacco issue sold for a staggering $2.88 million in 2021, reflecting Mathewson’s importance and the power of his likeness on cardboard even after over a century.

1909-11 T206 American Tobacco Company Back – $3.12 million (2016)
Taking the third spot is not a player card itself, but rather the very rare American Tobacco Company ‘back’ ad card from the seminal T206 set. Very few of this factory backs survived intact, especially in the condition of this SGC-graded NM-MT 8 example. More than just a single player, this card encompasses the entire iconic tobacco era set and its significance to the history of our hobby. As such, it was able to bring an astonishing $3.12 million at auction in 2016, further elevating the renowned T206 issue.

1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb – $3.12 million (2016)
One of the greatest and most prolific players in baseball history, Ty Cobb epitomized competitive fire, skill, and raw talent on the diamond like few others. His amazing 24-year career produced records, accomplishments and Hall of Fame enshrinement that still stand the test of time. It’s therefore no surprise that his vibrant and visually striking T206 baseball card from 1909-11 has become the second most valuable piece of cardboard ever sold. Achieving $3.12 million in 2016, it shines as one of the most significant rarities from the earliest days of our beloved hobby.

1909-11 T206 Mickey Mantle – $5.2 million (2021)
And finally, taking the number one spot is The Commerce Club’s record-shattering $5.2 million sale of a PSA NM-MT 8 example of the legendary Mickey Mantle’s legendary 1952 Topps debut card in 2021. While not from the same hallowed T206 tobacco era as the above cards, Mantle’s rookie is the crown jewel of post-war cardboard and considered by many to be the single most desirable sports card in existence due to “The Mick’s” iconic status as perhaps the greatest switch hitter and all-around talent in baseball history. The then-record price was a fitting tribute to Mantle’s legacy on and off the field as an all-time sports icon.

These ten cards spanning over 100 years of baseball history represent some of the most significant players, visuals, and historical importance enshrined in cardboard collectibles. As interest and prices keep rising, they will likely remain the most coveted and valuable specimens that continue to shape our great hobby. With such rich stories, rarity levels, and associations to baseball’s finest, its easy to see why these pieces of our national pastime’s storytelling will likely maintain their throne among collectors for generations to come.

BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 2023 Bowman baseball card release is one of the most highly anticipated issues of the year. As a major set focused on top MLB prospects and rookie cards, Bowman annually draws a lot of interest from collectors both young and old. With the 2023 edition now hitting the market, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top rookies and prospects to watch, along with estimated current values for many of the prized rookie cards using a combination of recent sales data and market analysis.

One of the biggest storylines in the 2023 Bowman set revolves around Detroit Tigers prospect Jackson Jobe. As the #3 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, Jobe is one of the highest profile prospects in the set. His base rookie card can currently be found for around $15-20, while parallels and autographs are much rarer and more valuable. Jobe’s Top Prospect card and /99 purple refractor parallel have recently sold in the $75-100 range. Autographs and 1/1 parallels could potentially fetch thousands given the hype around Jobe’s future potential.

Another pitcher drawing a lot of early buzz is Los Angeles Angels prospect Zach Neto. Neto had a breakout season in A ball in 2022 and has skyrocketed up prospect rankings. His base rookie card trades for around $10 currently, with color and autographed parallels much scarcer. Neto’s Top Prospect card and /299 orange refractor parallel have sold for $30-50 in recent weeks. Like Jobe, higher end Neto cards could see big jumps in value if he continues to develop his skills in the upper minors next season.

On the position player side, Washington Nationals prospect Elijah Green is one of the premier prospects in the 2023 Bowman set. As a potential five-tool center fielder taken 5th overall in the 2022 draft, Green possesses huge upside. His base rookie sells in the $12-15 range currently. Green’s Top Prospect card and /99 purple parallel have moved for $50-75, showing strong early collector interest. Like Jobe and Neto, Green’s rarer autographed and 1/1 refractor parallels could be true long-term gems in the set.

Another position player generating a lot of buzz is Baltimore Orioles prospect Carlos Tavera. Signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2021, Tavera had a breakout season in the Florida Complex League in 2022. His tools and upside are exciting for Orioles fans. Tavera’s base rookie trades around $8 currently. His Top Prospect and /299 orange refractor parallel have sold in the $25-35 range, reflecting his rising prospect stock. Tavera has a chance to continue climbing prospect lists in 2023, making his cards a potential sleeper in the set.

In terms of other prospects to watch, Atlanta Braves pitcher Owen Murphy, Chicago White Sox outfielder Roberto Campos, and San Diego Padres shortstop Jackson Merrill all have rookie cards attracting early attention. Murphy’s cards trade around $10, while Campos and Merrill are in the $7-9 range currently for their base rookies. All three have shown glimpses of impact potential and could break out in full season ball next year. Their Top Prospect and color parallels are still attainable investments under $30 at this stage.

When it comes to veteran stars and reprints, Acuna Jr., Soto, and Tatis Jr. cards unsurprisingly reign supreme as the most expensive in the set. The Ronald Acuna Jr. Top Prospect card has sold for as much as $500 in PSA 10 condition. His base rookie still fetches $75-100. Juan Soto’s Top Prospect card trades for $300-400 in a PSA 10, with his base around $50-75. Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Top Prospect is even more elusive, with a PSA 10 copy selling for over $1000. His base rookie goes for $150-200 currently.

The 2023 Bowman baseball set is loaded with emerging prospects that have the potential to become future stars. While current values on base rookies are still very affordable across the board, savvy collectors would be wise to target select parallels and autographs of the top prospects profiled here. With another year of player development on the horizon, breakout performances could significantly boost the values of cards for prospects like Jobe, Neto, Green and others heading into the 2024 season. The set remains one of the best places to get in early on the next generation of MLB talent.