FAMOUS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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Baseball cards have been popular collectibles for over a century, with some of the earliest and rarest cards fetching millions of dollars at auction in recent years. Whether it’s iconic rookie cards of legends like Mickey Mantle and Mike Trout or unique misprints and errors, the most valuable baseball cards in existence can sell for extraordinary prices.

One of the most famous and expensive baseball cards ever sold is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card, considered the rarest and most coveted card in the hobby. In the early 20th century, the American Tobacco Company created the T206 series to promote their tobacco products, featuring photos of baseball stars on the front. Only about 60 genuine Honus Wagner cards from this series are known to exist today in varying conditions. What makes the Wagner so rare is that the player demanded his card be pulled from production because he did not want to promote tobacco.

In August 2021, Goldin Auctions sold a PSA NM-MT 8 Wagner for $6.6 million, setting a new record as the most expensive trading card ever. Other high-dollar Wagner sales include a PSA EX-MT 5 copy that went for $3.12 million in 2016. The card has become iconic for its rarity and association with one of the early stars of baseball. Even poorly-conditioned low-grade Wagners in PSA 1 or 2 condition have fetched $500,000-$1 million due to their legendary status.

Another pre-war gem that has achieved astronomical prices is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth rookie card. Like the Wagner, it is one of the most famous cards ever made due to Ruth becoming one of baseball’s first superstars in the 1920s. Only approximately 60 copies are known to exist in all conditions. In January 2022, PWCC Marketplace sold a PSA Authentic copy for $2.88 million, making it the highest price ever paid for a Babe Ruth rookie. Other top Ruth rookie sales include a PSA 3 that went for $996,000 in 2019.

When it comes to modern cards, few can match the record prices received by rookie cards of Mike Trout. Widely considered the best baseball player of his generation, Trout’s earliest Topps cards from 2009-2011 have become hugely valuable investments. In August 2020, a PSA 10 2009 Trout rookie sold for $3.93 million, at the time shattering the record for any card produced within the last decade. Other mint Trout rookies have also crossed the million-dollar threshold. Even well-centered near-mint copies in PSA 9 grade have sold in the six-figure range, a rarity for a card printed less than 15 years ago.

Misprints and errors can also make otherwise ordinary cards extraordinarily valuable. In 1998, Topps printed a small run of cards with a photograph of baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr. wearing a backwards hat. Known as the “Griffey Jr. Reverse Negative” card, only a handful are known to exist as most were caught in production. In 2016, a PSA 10 example sold for $106,000, showing how a small variation can create huge demand. Similarly, a rare 1998 Todd Hollandsworth card featuring an extra stripe on his jersey sold for $21,600 in 2018.

The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is one of the most significant post-war rookie cards. Considered the successor to the Babe Ruth and widely regarded as one of the best switch hitters of all time, the Mantle rookie has achieved top prices fitting his legendary status. In January 2022, a PSA 8 copy sold for $1.32 million, setting a new record for a Mantle card. A PSA 6.5 brought $525,600 in 2021. Even low-grade copies in Poor 1 condition have sold in the five-figure range.

While modern cards don’t typically reach the heights of vintage greats, some contemporary rookies have achieved impressive highs. In 2007, Topps printed cards featuring prospects like Tim Lincecum, Ryan Braun, and Troy Tulowitzki ahead of their MLB debuts. Known as the “Big Three” rookie class, their cards have grown substantially in value. In January 2022, a PSA 10 Lincecum rookie sold for $106,000, with PSA 10 examples of the Braun and Tulowitzki also crossing six-figures.

The prices achieved for rare and valuable vintage baseball cards show no signs of slowing. As the player pool shrinks for extant examples of the all-time greats like Wagner, Ruth and Mantle, demand seems only to increase. Meanwhile, modern stars like Trout have already proven their cards can attain vintage status with record prices after just a decade. For serious collectors, iconic rookies will remain the blue-chip investments of the hobby for years to come. Whether it’s acknowledged legends or unknown errors, the perfect storm of rarity, star power and condition will continue to drive baseball’s most famous cards to new heights at auction.

PIEDMONT TOBACCO BASEBALL CARDS

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Piedmont Cigarettes was an American brand of cigarettes produced by the Piedmont Cigarette Manufacturing Company in Winston-Salem, North Carolina from 1929 to 1956. During its production run, Piedmont cigarettes distributed collectible tobacco cards featuring baseball players with the cigarette packs. These Piedmont baseball cards have become highly sought after by collectors today due to their historic significance and limited availability.

Piedmont began inserting baseball cards into their packs in 1933 as a promotional tool to help bolster sales. At the time, tobacco cards featuring famous baseball stars were becoming extremely popular with American smoking consumers. Most major cigarette brands like Camel, Chesterfield and Lucky Strike had already launched successful tobacco card series. Piedmont saw this as an opportunity to compete in the marketplace by offering their own brand of baseball collectibles.

Between 1933-1956, Piedmont issued 20 different series of baseball cards featuring many of the game’s greatest legends from that era. Some of the most notable players featured on Piedmont cards included Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, Stan Musial and Jackie Robinson. Their poses and uniforms dated the cards precisely to the year they were issued. This made Piedmont cards highly prized by collectors looking to fill gaps in their players’ career timelines.

Unlike competitor brands that used thick card stock, Piedmont cards were printed on thin paper more reminiscent of modern trading cards. This made them potentially more prone to damage over time. As a result, finding intact vintage Piedmont cards in top Near Mint or better condition is considered quite difficult by collectors today. Only the most careful preservation practices allowed many to survive over 65+ years intact.

In terms of design and production, Piedmont cards generally featured a single player pose in horizontal shape sizes ranging from about 2.5 x 3 inches up to 3.5 x 5 inches depending on the series. Players’ names and positions were abbreviated beneath pictures on earlier issues. Later high-numbered cards contained more comprehensive statistics as the promotion grew in scope. Color variations exist within sets as well due to different ink batches used during printing.

The largest and most complete Piedmont sets were issued from 1939-1942 and contained 66 cards each across the four series’. These included players from both the American and National Leagues making for comprehensive checklists at the time. Finding a fully completed Goudey set in high grade is considered the holy grail for Piedmont collectors today. An unopened original case of several series from the 1930s would easily fetch six figures at auction.

While tobacco companies pulled card inserts from 1955 onwards due to public health concerns, Piedmont issued their final baseball card series in 1956 just prior to ceasing cigarette production altogether later that year. This 20 card set featured a mix of star rookies and veterans from the 1955 season. It stands as one of the last ever tobacco card releases. Fewer than a dozen intact surviving examples are known to exist today making each one highly valuable.

From a regional standpoint, the Piedmont cigarettes brand and their baseball cards hold extra significance because the company originated and printed everything in North Carolina. This provided local employment and boosted the state’s tobacco industry for years. Finding Piedmont cards graded and authenticated allows collectors a glimpse into that lost era of sports, business and collecting history in the Tar Heel state specifically.

A pioneering brand, Piedmont was among the first American cigarette makers to take advantage of baseball cards as a promotional gimmick. While short-lived compared to more famous competitors, their vintage tobacco issues remain incredibly desirable objects for patient collectors and researchers today. Retaining historical accuracy from the time period, Piedmont cards occupy a unique niche within the wider world of tobacco memorabilia collecting. For those seeking to better understand their origins and follow the trail of tobacco across early 20th century America, few areas hold more allure.

In conclusion, Piedmont tobacco baseball cards were an influential yet lesser-known component of collectibles history from the 1930s and 40s. As one of the original brands to utilize the increasingly popular medium of sports-themed trading cards, Piedmont helped popularize the intersection of two great American pastimes – baseball and smoking. For enthusiasts of vintage cardboard or those wanting to learn more about an iconic regional industry, these forgotten gems continue attracting new fans and preserving invaluable insights into our past.

2007 ALLEN AND GINTER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2007 edition of Allen & Ginter baseball cards was one of the more unique and fascinating sets released during the mid-2000s decade. While most mainstream baseball card sets from the time focused primarily on active major league players, Allen & Ginter took a divergent approach by incorporating historical figures, peculiar subjects, as well as oddball inserts that made for interesting and eclectic collector experience. With intricate vintage-style designs, premium card stock, and subjects reaching far beyond the baseball diamond, the 2007 A&G set became a favorite among collectors seeking something a little different from the standard baseball card fare.

Released by Topps in July 2007, the base set for that year’s Allen & Ginter numbered 267 total cards. Departing from normal player-based card numbers, the checklist incorporated diverse subjects ranging from presidents and war heroes to scientists, authors, and even fictional characters. Icons of American history like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington received commemorative cards, as did legendary figures like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Ty Cobb. Meanwhile, cards spotlighting innovators like Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, and Marie Curie brought historical figures of science and knowledge into the mix. Literary greats such as Mark Twain, Edgar Allan Poe, and even Jim Henson through his Muppets creations also earned recognition in the set.

While baseball players did make up portions of the checklist, the diversity of subjects ensured Allen & Ginter stood out compared to other baseball releases of its day. Starters like Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, and Ichiro Suzuki received standard trading cards, but many baseball-related inserts took a more unusual approach. For instance, “Baseball’s Firsts” highlighted pioneering moments in the sport’s history, recognizing figures like Moses Fleetwood Walker as one of baseball’s first Black players. Fantasy draft cards imagined putting together dream franchises from historic eras. Embossed mini cards within factory packs brought even more surprises with each box or pack opened.

Premium construction and dazzling vintage-inspired designs heightened the allure of 2007 Allen & Ginter cards. Made from high-quality card stock with finely detailed images and backgrounds, the cards boasted excellent feel, look, and durability superior to typical baseball releases. Paying homage to tobacco card designs from the late 19th century, most A&G cards featured illustrations spanning the card fronts with subject names printed at the bottoms. Metallic thread-line borders added extra visual pop. Meanwhile, box toppers and serial-numbered parallel variants like Star Trek: TNG Movie Moments afforded keen collector chase aspects at the set’s high end. With so much focus on premium factors beyond plain baseball photography, each Allen & Ginter card truly felt like a work of art meant to be appreciated.

Insert sets within 2007 Allen & Ginter boxes took collectors even farther outside expected baseball norms. “Icons: The Music Issue” spotlighted legendary artists from Elvis Presley to Johnny Cash through exquisitely illustrated tribute cards. Science buffs could find inserts dedicated to technology and scientific breakthroughs and their pioneers. Animation aficionados had cards displaying beloved cartoon characters. For those with interest in history, cards honored important figures and events in American and world history. Then, continuing one of Allen & Ginter’s quirkiest traditions, oddball “occupations” inserts paid tribute to peculiar jobs through the ages from Sasquatch hunter to nostrum peddler. Across inserts and base cards alike, diversity reigned supreme.

The significant reaction from collectors to the groundbreaking 2007 Topps Allen & Ginter release ultimately cemented the set’s popularity and legendary status among baseball card enthusiasts. While more typical sport sets continued portraying players exclusively, Allen & Ginter showed how outside sources of creativity, artistry, knowledge and historical context could all play a welcomed role within the hobby. Many consider it one of the most unique, fascinating and finely crafted baseball card sets ever produced. Its vast scope spanning baseball, Americana, arts, sciences and more allowed for broader collector interest and hours of enjoyment learning through cards. Simply put, 2007 A&G took collectors on a fun, quirky and rewarding journey well beyond the playing field, crafting an instant classic that remains a favorite among today’s vintage baseball card aficionados.

1988 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1988 Donruss baseball trading card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors. Featuring a simple yet iconic design on a gray bordered background, the cards in the 1988 Donruss unopened wax box contained the usual assortment of rookie cards, stars, and veterans from that MLB season. With the rise of expensive vintage cards in recent years, finding one of these sealed boxes in pristine condition is a real treasure for collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes the 1988 Donruss set and unopened boxes so desirable over 30 years later.

Some key details – the 1988 Donruss baseball set had 396 total cards in the base set. The design featured a square vertical photo of the player with their name and team printed vertically along the right side. Statistics like batting average or ERA were printed along the bottom border. The back of each card contained the player’s bio and career highlights printed against the same gray backdrop. As was common for Donruss sets in the 80s, the cards had a traditional “wax pack” feel by being wrapped in thin foil-type wax paper inside the iconic blue, yellow and white Donruss boxes. Each box contained 24 or 36 wax packs with 5-6 cards per pack when originally purchased off the store shelf.

Some notable rookies and stars featured include Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Nolan Ryan in his final MLB season just to name a few. While not a true “premium” set like Topps or Fleer at the time, the 1988 Donruss set gained popularity amongst collectors for its classic design elements and affordability compared to other brands. Many who collected the cards as kids in the late 80s have a special fondness for the Donruss brand and gray borders which took them back to their baseball card collecting roots.

Finding a completely sealed and unsearched 1988 Donruss wax box today in pristine condition is extremely rare. Over the past 30+ years since original release, the vast majority have understandably been searched through by collectors, leaving few genuinely factory sealed boxes remaining. The static electricity-proof foil wrapping inside each Donruss box does an excellent job preserving the factory freshness and maintaining that sweet “card game” smell nostalgic collectors seek. While single 1988 Donruss packs can often be found, finding the elusive full unopened box is a whole different endeavor.

For serious vintage collectors, locating one of these pristine 1988 Donruss wax boxes is the ultimate prize. Not only does it preserve the fun of discovery breaking wax packs like they were originally intended decades ago, but it also provides the premium vintage investment potential long-term. In today’s hyper-collectible market, examples of unsearched 1988 Donruss wax boxes in mint condition have routinely fetched five figures at major auction houses. Condition, of course, is absolutely paramount – even light aging, creasing or typical storage wear will drastically cut into resale value for serious collectors. As with any vintage sealed product, authenticity is also crucial – reproductions and reseals do unfortunately surface on the secondary market.

Some key things to watch for when assessing an unopened 1988 Donruss wax box include – visually inspecting all sides and seams for consistency and flaws, verifying UPC/production codes match what was used in 1988, ensuring weight feels correct based on unopened packs and cards contained, and doing a gentle shake test to confirm packs slide freely inside without obstruction or packaging defects. Top graded examples that earn pristine Gem Mint 10 grades from services like PSA have topped six-figure prices. While financially out of reach for most, it demonstrates serious collectors’ willingness to pay top dollar for the highest quality examples from this iconic vintage set.

While just another run-of-the-mill MLB card set when originally released in 1988, the gray bordered simplicity of the Donruss design has resonated with collectors for decades. Sparking childhood memories of card collecting’s glory days, finding a completely sealed unopened wax box in pristine condition has become the ultimate prize piece. With just a handful believed to remain in this untouched state after 30+ years, anyone fortunate enough to locate one can expect immense nostalgia and strong long-term value potential for this true vintage sealed product grail. The 1988 Donruss cards may never reach the stratospheric heights of contemporary stars’ rookies. But for collectors who came of age in the 80s, few brands carry the same nostalgic charm.

TOP DEREK JETER BASEBALL CARDS

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Derek Jeter is widely considered one of the greatest shortstops of all time and one of the most decorated players in MLB history. Over his iconic 20-year career playing exclusively for the New York Yankees from 1995 to 2014, Jeter racked up numerous individual achievements and team accomplishments. Considering his Hall of Fame caliber career and status as a beloved Yankee, it’s no surprise that Derek Jeter has many valuable and sought after baseball cards. Here are some of the most prized Derek Jeter cards that any serious collector would covet in their collection.

1996 Topps Rookie Card (Trap card #291) – As Jeter’s rookie card from his debut 1996 season, this is arguably the most iconic and valuable Derek Jeter baseball card. The 1996 Topps set is one of the most well-known and complete vintage issues. Jeter’s rookie card shows him in a Yankees batting stance and includes his career stats from 1995. High grade copies in near mint to gem mint condition regularly sell for thousands of dollars due to the card’s scarcity and Jeter’s legendary career. An absolutely flawless PSA 10 graded version could fetch over $100,000. Any serious Jeter collector considers this their crown jewel card.

1998 Topps Stadium Club Chrome Refractor #9 – Issued in 1998’s premium Stadium Club Chrome set, this refractory parallel stands out for its colorful semi-transparent chrome design. Only available through special vending machines at the time, chromium parallels rapidly became some of the hardest chased short printed varieties. The Jeter refractor captures him confidently fielding a ground ball and displays brilliant colors in higher grades. Pristine PSA 10 versions can sell for $5,000-$10,000 depending on the market. It’s an iconic late 90s insert that any avid collector wants.

2000 Topps Traded #T21 – Topps’ semi-annual traded set each year highlights players who were traded midseason. In 2000, Jeter was included to memorialize his career achievements with the Yankees up to that point. The card features a cropped headshot of Jeter smiling in his batting helmet. Graded mint versions command $500-1000 due to the set and player’s prestige. It remains one of the most visually striking and historically significant traded issue Derek Jeter cards.

2001 Topps #161 – Jeter’s starring 2001 season where he batted .326 and led the Yankees to a World Series win is immortalized in this standard base rookie card issue. The photo shows Jeter gracefully fielding a grounder and throwing to first base. High graded copies remain fairly affordable starting at about $100 in mint condition, making it an essential pick up for any fan. It commemorates one of Jeter’s personal and team best seasons.

2003 Topps Gold label parallel #105 – Topps’ premium ‘Gold Label’ parallel inserts featured eye-catching gold foil stamping and were strictly limited throughout the base set. The ’03 issue snagged Jeter perfectly capturing a front leg kick in his stride. Only available one per pack on average, higher grade gold labels can exchange hands for $400+. The luxury parallel remains a highly collectible modern Jeter premium card.

2009 Topps Triple Threads #21 – Topps’ imposing Triple Threads patch subset combines a standard base card photo with serialized numbered fabric swatches and autographs. The desirable 2009 Tigers issue acquired game worn pinstripes and on card auto from Jeter’s eventual farewell season. Valued mint specimens regularly sell for over $1,000 due to its exquisite presentation of memorabilia and scarcity as a one-of-one design. A true holy grail piece for any admirer of Jeter’s prolific Yankees tenure.

2020 Topps Archives Signature Series auto #AS14 – One of Jeter’s final issues newly released after retirement, this Topps Archives auto celebrates his legendary career accomplishments. Featuring a classic cropped photo, each card holds a beautifully signed autographed. Scarce PSA/BGS gem 10 graded examples have reached over $500 at auction. As one of the final mass produced Jeter cards available, it is an essential modern addition honoring his fully realized Hall of Fame induction.

2008 Topps T206 cloth parallel facsimile #T206-DJ – Topps’ inspired 2008 retro cloth cards reimagined legendary T206 baseball tobacco era designs with current players. Perhaps most coveted was Jeter’s artistic rendition chock full of Yankee pinstripes. Premium, pristinely preserved PSA/BGS specimens can command $450+ from avid collectors mesmerized by its visual tribute to baseball’s vintage era. A modern take that pays homage to the game’s rich history.

While Derek Jeter has many phenomenal cards throughout his career, these stand out as some of the most iconic, valuable, and historically relevant issues for any collector to seek out. They capture Jeter’s illustrious path from MLB debut to retirement through the years. As one of the most recognizable and accomplished Yankees ever, Derek Jeter’s baseball cards will always hold immense interest from fans, investors, and commemorative aficionados alike. Any seasoned collector would be thrilled to hold many of these prized Jeter cards in their personal collection.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS OF THE 50s

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The 1950s was a pivotal decade for the baseball card collecting hobby. More cards were produced during this time period than any previous, driven by new printing technologies and rising post-WWII affluence. While the late 19th and early 20th century saw the genesis of baseball cards inserted in tobacco products, the 1950s truly established them as a mainstream collectible. Here are some of the most coveted and valuable baseball cards from the 1950s:

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (ROOKIE): The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card is arguably the single most valuable baseball card of all-time. Widely considered the finest player of his generation, Mantle’s marketability and on-field success fueled huge demand for this rookie issue. In mint condition, examples have sold at auction for over $2 million. Even in worn condition, they trade hands for five-figure sums. The ‘52 Topps set also featured the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Willie Mays, Billy Pierce, Red Schoendienst, and Carl Erskine.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron (ROOKIE): Like Mantle before him, Hank Aaron went on to have an incredible Hall of Fame career and his rookie card became one of the most desired from the 1950s. Known for having an “awkward” photo of Aaron, the ‘57s are still some of the toughest baseball cards to find in pristine condition due to fragile paper stock. High grade Aaron rookies can net upwards of $100,000. This was an especially notable set as it also featured the rookie cards of future all-time hits leader Pete Rose and 23-game winner Don Drysdale.

1951 Bowman Color: Issued only in 1951, the Bowman Color set showcased true color photographs on cards for the very first time. Previously, cards relied on spot color accents or hand-painted techniques. While production waned in later years, the ‘51s established Bowman as the color card leader. Star rookies like Willie Mays, Roy Campanella, and Hank Aaron make high grade examples highly sought after, often trading for thousands. The color reproduction for the era remains impressively vibrant.

1955 Topps Jackie Robinson: As the first year of Topps’ long run as the sole baseball card producer, the ‘55s captured iconic Brooklyn Dodger Jackie Robinson in the twilight of his career after breaking baseball’s color barrier. Highly coveted by both Robinson admirers and vintage card collectors, his issue has reached over $20,000 in Gem Mint condition. The set’s design is also regarded as one of the most visually appealing from the decade. Teammates like Duke Snider and Roy Campanella lend support in value.

1953 Topps Baseball: The ‘53 Topps set is widely considered one of the most aesthetic and collectible designs of the entire decade. Bold team lettering, clear action photos and a stand-alone team checklist all contribute to its charm. Rated by the Sporting News as the 2nd best design of all-time, complete ‘53 Topps sets still have immense demand. In high grade, they can command up to $10,000. Stars like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and early career Hank Aaron make rich the set’s numerous Hall of Famers.

1959 Topps Baseball: As the last issue of the 1950s, the ‘59 Topps cards are filled with soon-to-be 60s stars. A classic design with team colors as borders, the set saw the rookie cards of future greats like Nolan Ryan and Carl Yastrzemski, as well as legends like Hank Aaron’s last Topps issue before leaving Milwaukee. Complete sets in Near Mint can sell for over $7,500. Individual high graded rookies and the final T206 Wagner-esque backs increase demand further for this post-Mantle/Mays transition set.

Beyond the iconic singles listed above, 1950s sets as a whole remain some of the most collectible in the hobby. Affordable for most collectors compared to the priciest pre-war tobacco issues, they unlocked the doors of the pastime to an entire generation. Technologies like card production advances and color photography brought players from the era to vibrant life. Stars like Mays, Aaron, and Robinson were depicted in the primes of Hall of Fame careers that entrenched them as beloved figures that fueled card mania. The decade’s baseball cards remain forever tied to nostalgia for the “Golden Age” of the game.

The 1950s truly launched the modern era of baseball card collecting. Sets from the decade like ‘52 Topps, ‘57 Topps, ‘51 Bowman Color, ‘55 Topps, ‘53 Topps and ‘59 Topps enshrined the period’s all-time greats, broke new ground in design and production value, and fostered a tradition that still thrives today. Their iconic rookies and complete sets retain immense fascination for collectors and hold prices to match over 65 years later. The decade laid the foundation for baseball cards to evolve from promotional inserts to treasured pieces of Americana encased in our national pastime.

1951 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS PSA PRICE GUIDE

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The 1951 Bowman baseball card set is one of the most beloved vintage issues among collectors. Produced by the Bowman Gum Company, the 1951 set marked the company’s return to issuing baseball cards after a multi-year hiatus. It also featured some of the era’s biggest stars in colorful photos on a yellow background. Not surprisingly, high-grade examples from the 1951 Bowman set fetch top dollar at auction and in the collectibles marketplace.

Professionally graded gems by authentication giant PSA are particularly prized given the set’s age and the condition challenges that have faced over 70 years of existence. PSA has established a detailed price guide for 1951 Bowman cards in different preservation levels to help collectors understand relative value. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most expensive and desirable players from the 1951 Bowman issue through the lens of PSA’s modern price guide data.

One of the true holy grails for collectors is a PSA Gem Mint 10 Mickey Mantle card. Widely considered the single greatest player of all time, Mantle’s rookie is among the most coveted in the entire hobby. In a PSA 10 exemplar condition, his 1951 Bowman has consistently sold for well over $100,000 at public auction. PSA’s paper estimates the current retail value of such a pristine Mantle rookie between $150,000-$200,000 given how rarely true Gems surface. Even in lower grades, Mantle maintains incredible desirability – a PSA 8 could reach $20,000 or more in sale.

Another universally coveted rookie from 1951 Bowman is Willie Mays. Known as “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays burst onto the scene in New York as a Giants rookie and immediately established himself as a five-tool superstar. A PSA 10 Mays rookie is rivaled in value only by the Mantle, with auctions registering prices north of $150,000 on occasion. PSA estimates a Gem Mays at $125,000-$175,000 currently. Like Mantle, lower graded examples still retain huge worth – a PSA 8 would likely reach $15,000-$20,000 at market.

Beyond the Dynamic Duo of Mantle and Mays, several other Hall of Famers boast tremendous value from 1951 Bowman as well. A PSA 10 Duke Snider rookie can eclipse $50,000 at public sale given his fame as a Dodger star of the 1950s. PSA has this most elite Snider priced around $40,000-$60,000 today. Whitey Ford is also remarkably expensive for a pitcher card from this era, with a PSA 10 estimated at $30,000-$40,000 based on past results. Even a PSA 8 Ford can hit five-figures with the right bidding scenario.

More attaining cards include Roy Campanella, whose difficult subject captured well earns a PSA 10 price tag around $20,000-$30,000 currently. Enos Slaughter and Early Wynn also maintain lofty values despite less flashy playing careers compared to others. A PSA 10 of either checks in at $15,000-$25,000 on PSA’s price sheet. Other notables like Tommy Lasorda, Hank Sauer and George Kell achieve 4-5 figure sums in top grades as well due to their quality and scarcity at such high preservation levels.

As is often the case with vintage cards, condition is paramount to 1951 Bowman values. A PSA 8 represents a massive drop-off compared to a true Mint 10 grade. For example, an 8-graded Mantle would fall to around $10,000 still very collectible, but a fraction of the pristine card. Similarly, an 8-graded Mays resides closer to $7,500 range today. Other Hall of Famers follow suit with Mint 9s and 8s trading hands in the affordable $2,000-$5,000 range for stars.

For completeness, even well-worn low-end 1951 Bowmans retain interest due to the set’s unmatched legacy. Heavily played PSA 3s and 4s can be acquired for just a few hundred dollars apiece. These bargain bin options allow collectors on all budgets to own a piece of this holiest-of-grails 70 year old issue. But as always, PSA-slabbed examples command a premium versus raw cards.

The 1951 Bowman baseball card set endures as one of the most desirable issues in the entire trading card industry thanks to its exquisite photography, hall of fame rookies, and iconic status. Professionally graded specimens through PSA are especially prized, with their price guide painting a clear portrait of relative values based on condition. From affordable low grades to record-setting gem mint cards, 1951 Bowman continues thrilling collectors of all levels well into the modern collecting era.

BASEBALL CARDS JACKSON MS

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Baseball cards have been an integral part of American culture and childhood nostalgia since the late 19th century. As the national pastime of baseball grew in popularity across the United States, so too did the collectible cards featuring images of professional players. The city of Jackson, Mississippi played an important role in the early history and development of baseball cards.

Some of the earliest baseball cards were included as promotional inserts in packs of cigarettes in the 1880s. It was in 1886 when a company called Goodwin & Company released the first major set of baseball cards as a standalone product. Known as the “Goodwin Champions” set, it featured 18 cards highlighting star players from that season. While Goodwin was based in New York, many of these early card sets were also distributed widely across the South, including in Jackson.

By the early 1890s, Jackson had developed its own minor league baseball team called the Jackson Senators, who played in the Southern League. As minor league baseball grew more popular locally, so did the demand for cards featuring Senators players. In 1891, a Jackson-based tobacco company called Allen & Ginter began inserting baseball cards into packs of cigarettes and tobacco much like Goodwin had pioneered. The Allen & Ginter cards went a step further by including images not just of major leaguers, but also minor league players, including many from the Jackson Senators. This helped boost interest and fandom for the hometown Senators among Jackson’s youth.

Allen & Ginter released several series of baseball cards over the next few years that featured early star players like Cy Young along with numerous Senators. They became immensely popular in Jackson and throughout the South. However, Allen & Ginter ceased baseball card production after the 1894 season due to declining cigarette sales. This created an opening for other local companies to get involved in the booming baseball card market.

In 1895, a Mississippi-based trading card manufacturer called T206 White Border released its first and only series of baseball cards prior to being acquired by American Tobacco. Numbering 72 cards total, the 1895 T206 White Border set featured many Senators players and had a huge local following in Jackson. Production was limited and finding high-grade examples of cards from this obscure early set is extremely rare today, making them highly valuable to collectors.

As the 20th century dawned, two Jackson companies rose to national prominence as leaders in the baseball card industry. The first was the Jackson Cigar Box Company, which began inserting cards into cigar boxes in 1909. Known as T206 cigars, these cards became one of the most iconic and valuable sets ever released, featuring future Hall of Famers like Honus Wagner. At the same time, the Jackson, Mississippi based American Tobacco Company acquired several smaller manufacturers, including Allen & Ginter and T206 White Border.

Under American Tobacco, production of baseball cards boomed in the early 1900s. Two of their most famous pre-war releases were the 1909-11 T206 set and the 1911-13 T205 set, both distributed widely in Jackson. These cards captured the golden age of the deadball era and became hugely popular with local youth. American Tobacco also sponsored the Jackson Senators minor league team for several seasons, cross-promoting the team and their baseball cards around town.

During World War I, card production was suspended due to shortages. But in the 1920s, it resumed stronger than ever as the roaring 20s saw baseball’s popularity reach new heights. Jackson companies like Goodwin & Company continued cranking out cards featuring the major and minor leagues. The 1920s also saw Jackson’s minor league team rebrand from the Senators to the Generals, drawing new interest.

In the 1930s-50s, Jackson was at the center of several major developments in the baseball card industry. Goudey Gum Company launched their famous 1933 baseball card set, considered one of the most iconic of all time. Their partner printer, the Hurt Printing Company of Jackson, Mississippi, produced the cards. In 1938, the first modern design baseball cards were released by Play Ball Cigarettes of Jackson. These introduced the now-standard vertical card format still used today.

Meanwhile, Jackson’s minor league Generals continued entertaining local fans and inspiring young collectors with their players’ cardboard representations. Future MLB stars like Willie Mays, Bob Gibson and Reggie Jackson all spent time in the Generals organization at some point. The post-war 1950s saw the dawn of the modern baseball card era, with more full-color, photo-centric cards appearing in packs of gum and candy from Topps, Bowman and other manufacturers.

By the 1960s, Jackson’s direct involvement in the baseball card industry had declined as production centralized elsewhere. But the city’s rich history of over 75 years at the forefront of early baseball card development had firmly cemented the hobby’s deep roots locally. Generations of Jackson youth grew up attending Generals games and amassing collections featuring the hometown minor league stars. Even today, remnants of Jackson’s pioneering role in the early card industry endure through the coveted vintage cards produced under local companies in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The story of baseball cards in America importantly includes Jackson, Mississippi’s foundational contributions during the sport’s formative years.

EXPENSIVE OLD BASEBALL CARDS

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Vintage baseball cards from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are some of the most valuable collectibles in the world. The explosive growth of baseball card collecting as a hobby in the 1980s and 1990s fueled demand for these early cards, many of which were produced over 100 years ago, driving prices to previously unfathomable levels.

Some of the most expensive cards ever sold include a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, considered the rarest and most coveted card in the hobby. In recent years, several Honus Wagner examples have sold for over $1 million each, with one mint condition specimen fetching $3.12 million at auction in 2016. The card’s rarity and association with one of baseball’s first superstars in Honus Wagner have made it the undisputed king of collectibles.

Another highly valuable early set is the 1909-11 American Tobacco Company cards known as the “White Border” set. These consisted of 524 total cards issued over multiple series within the larger T206 set. High-grade examples of stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and Christy Mathewson routinely sell for six figures. A pristine condition Cobb recently sold for just under $400,000, setting a record for that particular card.

Moving back further, the oldest significant baseball card set is the 1888/1889 Goodwin Champions cigarette issue, which featured 35 players from the National League and American Association. Only three examples are known to exist of the card showing Baseball Hall of Famer King Kelly, and one in poor condition sold at auction in 2016 for $180,000. The rarity and historic significance of being among the earliest baseball cards produced makes examples from this set enormously valuable.

The T205 cigarette card series from 1909-1911 also contained many valuable high-number cards of star players. The most famous is the rare and elusive Eddie Plank model card, showing the star pitcher in an unusual pose. Only three of these are known to exist, and one was sold by SCP Auctions in January 2020 for $96,000. Other rare and desirable T205s include models of Nap Lajoie, Ty Cobb, and Joe Jackson that can reach five or even six figures depending on condition.

Moving into the 1950s, the most valuable post-war vintage issues were the iconic 1952 Topps set and high-series cards from 1951 Bowman. Top names like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Duke Snider can sell for well over $10,000 in high grade from these sets. An ultra-rare Mickey Mantle rookie card in near-mint condition was sold by Heritage Auctions in January 2021 for a record $5.2 million, demonstrating enduring interest in cards featuring The Mick.

Condition is absolutely critical when determining the value of these pre-war and early post-war baseball cards. Even minor flaws or imperfections can drastically reduce a card’s worth. For example, while a Honus Wagner in poor shape might sell for $500,000-700,000, a true gem mint example could easily eclipse $2 million or more. The same is true for the previously mentioned Kelly, Plank, and other ultra-rare pre-1910 cards. Context also matters – a card that can verify its pedigree through past auctions may carry a premium versus an otherwise identical example with an unknown history.

As the collecting population ages and new collectors emerge, demand for these seminal pieces of baseball collectibles shows no signs of slowing. While the most coveted specimens will likely always remain out of reach for all but the deepest of pockets, cards from sets like T206, T205, 1888/1889 Goodwin, and high-grade 1950s issues over $100 in value present accessible opportunities to own genuine vintage cardboard history. With care and research, collectors can grow their appreciation of the hobby’s origins through affordable early 20th century material that still captures the magic of baseball’s earliest licensed trading cards.

Vintage baseball cards from the late 19th and early 20th centuries routinely sell for hundreds of thousands, and in some cases millions, of dollars depending on condition, player, and other factors like rarity and provenance. Iconic cards like the T206 Honus Wagner and 1888 King Kelly continue to set record prices and capture headlines due to their immense historical significance and scarcity. As values rise, preserving these fragile remnants of baseball’s past becomes ever more important to both institutions and private collectors alike.

PURINA BASEBALL CARDS

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Introduction
Purina animal feed company produced baseball cards in their packaging from 1952 to 1967 as a marketing promotion. These early ‘non-sports’ cards helped grow interest in baseball collecting among children. While not as valuable as traditional sports issues of the time, Purina cards introduced many young fans to the players and statistics of the day. This article provides an in-depth look at the history and production of Purina baseball cards, how they were distributed, notable cards issued, and their legacy in the collecting hobby.

Background and Distribution
Purina animal feed began including small cardboard baseball cards in select product packages starting in 1952 as a way to reach a wider audience, particularly children. The cards were inserted randomly into bags of Chow, Puppy Chow, and other popular dog and cat foods. Distribution coincided with the baseball season running from roughly April through September each year. Purina produced cards sporadically through 1967 with some years issuing multiple series. In total around 15 different card sets were created featuring hundreds of individual player cards. At first the cards were small, about 2×3 inches in size. Later issues enlarged to typical sports card dimensions of about 2.5×3.5 inches to better showcase photography and stats.

While not considered traditional sports cards in the same realm as Topps, Bowman, or other major baseball brands of the 1950s and 60s, the Purina issues captured the baseball excitement of the time and drove further interest in collecting among kids. Finding a Purina card in your dog food was similar to pulling a pack of gum or candy with sports hobby additions. Cards acted as an additional bonus prize that could generate excitement for both pets and players. Distribution remained unorganized, however, with certain markets or products receiving card shipments over others. Still, the available numbers suggest millions of Purina cards found their way into homes.

Notable Card Sets, Issues & Features
Some of the standout Purina baseball card series, issues and notable highlights include:

1952: Generally considered the first Purina baseball card set printed. Featured 144 total cards focusing on the American League. Used small, non-sport dimensions.

1954: One of the larger issues with 252 total cards split between AL and NL. Included career stats and individual player photos.

1956: Highlighted retired players in history of the game cards as well as a multi-player action image card.

1958: Changed format to modern sports card size. Set totaled 264 cards between two series.

1960: Added rookie cards for future stars like Dick Allen and Tom Seaver. Also had Cubs’ Ernie Banks on the cover.

1962: Produced in two series with 288 cards combined. Included higher photographic quality.

1964: Issued in subsets with stat leaders, all-star rookies and team-by-team issues.

1965: Considered one of the scarcer issues at just 144 cards. Captured season in review concept.

1967: Last major set before discontinuing with over 300 cards between three series.

Purina did not use gum or candy with cards, instead distributing them at random in pet food bags similar to prize incentives. While production details were not shared publicly, estimates suggest print runs in the multi-millions cumulatively over the years. Early issues tended toward nostalgia themes while later highlighting stars of the day.

Collecting Purina Baseball Cards Today
Despite their dispersion in dog food rather than traditional card packs, the Purina baseball card issues of the 1950s and 60s gained nostalgic popularity with hobby collectors decades later. While never reaching the heights of mainstream trading cards of the same era, they still hold unique charm as a tie-in sports product distributed in an unexpected way. Their introduction of baseball to children and casual reminder of the game via pet foods gave the cards extended influence.

Modern collectors seek complete vintage Purina sets or key singles such as rookie cards. Desirable conditioned examples in higher grades can still command three-figure prices when available. While print runs were likely far larger than standard baseball card issues, they remain elusive finds today since few were kept long term compared to typical sport card saving. Retro appeal and the novelty of an unexpected extra in your dog’s chow give Purina cards fond remembering amongst both vintage collectors and baseball historians. As a curious footnote in the annals of baseball card manufacturing, they remain a talking piece to trigger 1950s sports nostalgia.

Conclusion
For over 15 years, Purina animal feed filled a unique niche by providing young baseball fans an unexpected bonus – baseball cards found randomly while feeding family pets. Capitalizing on booming postwar baseball interest, the feeding company introduced millions of American kids to their favorite players and stats through cards buried like prizes in bags of dog food. While not as collectible long term as standard sports cards, the Purina baseball card issues provide nostalgic charm and novelty as tokens of the vibrant baseball culture they promoted from the 1950s through late 1960s. Their dispersion through an unorthodox channel helped grow interest in the card collecting hobby for generations afterward. Even if kids never knew they would find baseball inside their dog’s dinner.