1988 STARTING LINEUP TALKING BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1988 baseball season brought excitement and nostalgia to baseball card collectors as the Topps brand released its iconic “Starting Lineup” series featuring highly detailed figurines of MLB’s biggest stars. This innovative product put real action and personality into the traditional card collecting experience and offered a new way for fans to display their favorite players.

The 1988 Starting Lineup set included figurines of the projected starting position players for all 26 MLB teams at the time. Each figurine stood approximately 4 inches tall and featured individually painted uniforms showing logos, numbers, and decorations down to the smallest detail. The figures could be posed in batting, throwing, or fielding stances thanks to movable limbs and torsos. Accompanying each figurine was a baseball card with an image of the player and stats from the 1987 season on the front, along with a short biography on the back.

Collectors eagerly snatched up packs of the Starting Lineup series hoping to assemble full team rosters or chase rare sticker variants. Figurines came packaged randomly in plastic clamshells along with a baseball card and assorted stickers that could be applied to the bases to designate positions or add player numbers. Shortprinted stickers of team logos or player initials added another layer of scarcity to the hunt. While 1988 marked the first year of Starting Lineup, the concept became a cornerstone of Topps’s modern releases for decades to come.

Some of the most iconic players featured in the 1988 Topps Starting Lineup included Reds slugger Eric Davis, who smacked 37 homers in 1987 and was one of baseball’s emerging superstars. Davis’s figurine recreated his flashy red and white uniform and big left-handed swing. Another highly sought-after piece was Twins star Kirby Puckett, who was coming off a .332 batting average season and would lead Minnesota to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991. Puckett’s figurine showed his smooth left-handed stance and signature eyeblack perfectly painted on the face.

Royals pitcher Bret Saberhagen also received the Starting Lineup treatment after capturing the AL Cy Young and MVP awards in 1985 while leading Kansas City to a World Series crown. Saberhagen’s figurine depicted his windup from the stretch with ice-cold intensity on his face. Meanwhile, Angels superstar Rod Carew rounded out his illustrious 19-year career in 1987 and had one of the most detailed Starting Lineup figures with his perfectly recreated maroon and red pinstripe uniform down to the satin lettering.

The 1988 Starting Lineup series also gave collectors their first glimpses of young stars just starting to make names for themselves, like Phillies third baseman Mike Schmidt’s heir apparent, future NL MVP Scott Rolen. Rolen’s figurine presciently foreshadowed his outstanding defense and cannon arm coming out of the hot corner. Meanwhile, emerging Cubs first baseman Mark Grace sported a mustachioed figurine in the classic Cubbie pinstripes that foretold his breakout season ahead.

Besides starring players, the 1988 Starting Lineup included figurines of sturdy veterans like Cardinals pitcher John Tudor, who anchored St. Louis’s pitching staff with 21 wins in 1987. Tudor’s figurine perfectly highlighted his bulldog mound presence and faded red jersey. Meanwhile, Expos catcher Mike Fitzgerald, who had played parts of five seasons as a backup by 1988, even received the figurine treatment that year thanks to Montreal’s lack of established catchers at the time.

While most Starting Lineup cards featured realistic recreations of that year’s projected lineups, collectors could also find rare variations. A few teams featured minor changes due to offseason trades, like the Mariners figurine of Don Mattingly despite his being dealt from the Yankees after the 1987 season ended. Meanwhile, shortprinted “rookie” variants of Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, and Sandy Alomar Jr. gave collectors a sneak peek at future stars yet to crack the MLB starting lineup full-time.

In all, the 1988 Topps Starting Lineup series masterfully brought baseball’s stars to three-dimensional life. Collectors delighted in posing figurines of their favorite players in action on their desks. The figurine concept also sparked children’s imaginations by allowing them to physically act out plays on the field. Three decades later, mint 1988 Starting Lineup cards remain prized possessions in collections, serving as a nostalgic trip back to a exciting time for the sport.

MOST VALUABLE 1982 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1982 Topps Traded set is one of the most coveted subsets in the entire baseball card industry. While it only featured 60 cards compared to the full 660 card base set, the Traded issue contained several highly sought after rookie cards and players moving teams via trade. Some of the rookie cards in the 1982 Topps Traded set have gone on to become incredibly valuable given the strong performances and careers of the players featured. While there are many valuable and desirable cards from the ’82 Traded checklist, here are some of the most valuable based on long-term demand and recent sales prices:

Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1982 Topps Traded set, Cal Ripken Jr’s rookie card is the undisputed most valuable card from the subset. Ripken went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Baltimore Orioles, winning two MVP awards and playing in a record 2,632 consecutive games. The tremendous accomplishments and admiration Ripken earned make his rookie card one of the most iconic and famous in the entire hobby. High grade PSA 10 copies have sold for over $100,000 in recent years, with typical PSA 8 or 9 examples still commanding $3,000-$10,000 depending on condition. Ripken’s iconic status and the immense popularity of his rookie card make it the undisputed king of 1982 Topps Traded.

Mike Schmidt Rookie Card: Like Ripken, Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt had an amazing career primarily spent with one team, winning 10 Gold Gloves and being named NL MVP three times as the heart of the Philadelphia Phillies lineup for many years. Schmidt’s achievements on the field are rivaled only by the demand for his rookie card, which was issued in the 1982 Topps Traded set after being traded from the Phillies to the Cubs in the 1981-1982 offseason. High grade PSA 10 copies have achieved over $20,000 at auction, with PSA 8 versions settling in the $2,000-$5,000 range depending on exact centering and corners. Schmidt’s success and place among the all-time great third basemen make this an extremely valuable rookie card for collectors.

Darrell Porter Rookie Card: Coming off a career year where he won the 1981 World Series MVP award as the catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, Darrell Porter was traded to the Kansas City Royals prior to the 1982 season. His rookie card in the Topps Traded set has gained considerable popularity among collectors. Porter went on to enjoy a solid 11 year MLB career and his ’81 postseason heroics made his rookie card very desirable. PSA 10 copies have topped $7,000 at auction with PSA 8 versions settling around the $1,000 price point on the current vintage baseball card market. Porter may not have the career accolades of Ripken or Schmidt, but his rookie remains a key chase card for many collectors of ’80s cardboard.

Pete Rose Traded Card: One of the most infamous players in baseball history, Pete Rose’s Topps Traded card from 1982 features him in a Montreal Expos uniform after being dealt from the Philadelphia Phillies. While Rose’ gambling ban and place on the ineligible list have damaged his reputation to an extent, his status as the all-time MLB hits leader and popularity as one of the game’s great competitors still makes his cards highly sought after. In PSA 10 condition, Rose’s Expos card has reached over $3,500 at auction. PSA 8 versions tend to sell in the $500-$1,000 range. Controversy aside, there is strong collector demand for any Rose card, making his Topps Traded card a notable valuable piece from 1982.

Robin Yount Traded Card: After a stellar 1980 season that saw him named AL MVP and win a Gold Glove, Robin Yount was traded from the Milwaukee Brewers to the California Angels prior to the ’82 season. His rookie season in 1982 was cut short by injuries, but Yount recovered to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Brewers, winning another MVP along the way. As a result of his accomplishments, the demand for his 1982 Topps Traded Angels card has grown tremendously. High grade PSA 10 examples have reached prices over $3,000 at auction, with reliable PSA 8 versions settling in the $500-$1,000 area. Yount’s status as a Brewers icon and former MVP gives his traded card enduring collector interest.

Ryne Sandberg Rookie Card: One of the true superstars of the 1980s, Ryne Sandberg burst onto the scene in 1982 with the Chicago Cubs. While his full Topps rookie is more iconic, his rookie card appearance in the 1982 Topps Traded set as a September call-up from the previous year has also sparked avid collector interest. Sandberg went on to win 9 Gold Gloves and was named the 1984 NL MVP. Top PSA 10 copies have reached over $2,500 at auction, with PSA 8/9 grades typically achieving $300-$800 in the current market. As one of the top second basemen ever, Sandberg’s early return in the Traded issue makes it a valuable piece of his legendary rookie card run.

While the 1982 Topps Traded set only included 60 cards total, it managed to feature some true icons of the game through key rookie cards and traded player appearances. Fueled by the immense achievements and popularity of players like Cal Ripken Jr., Mike Schmidt, and Ryne Sandberg, select cards from the set have grown tremendously in value among vintage baseball collectors. Their high grades still demand steep prices decades later thanks to the impact these performers had at the Major League level. For traders, investors and fans of 1980’s cardboard, few subsets compare to the historical significance and value propped up by the1982 Topps Traded checklist.

1989 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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The 1989 Topps baseball card set was released at the tail end of the Junk Wax Era and while not as coveted as sets from the 1930s-1970s, it still contains many rookie cards and stars of the late 1980s that hold value for collectors today. The set consists of 792 total cards including 86 unique photos of players in action on the field. While reprints were prevalent during this period, the 1989 Topps set maintained strict quality controls to ensure each print run was accurately tracked.

Among the top rookie cards fetching the highest prices in the 1989 set are Kenny Rogers, Barry Bonds, Tom Glavine, Gregg Olson, and Chad Mottola. Kenny Rogers’ rookie card in particular can sell for up to $100 in near mint condition given he went on to have a long and successful pitching career winning over 250 games and 3 World Series championships. Barry Bonds’ rookie is also highly sought after by collectors as he established himself as one of the greatest hitters of all-time, smashing the all-time home run record. Bonds’ rookie typically sells in the $75-$100 range depending on condition.

Tom Glavine and Gregg Olson rookie cards typically sell between $30-$50 for their memorable rookie seasons and careers. Glavine went on to win 305 games and 2 Cy Young awards while Olson had a dominant debut as a rookie closer, establishing himself as an elite reliever for years to come. Chad Mottola’s rookie also maintains value around $20 due to his long MLB career spanning 13 seasons despite never achieving superstar status. Other notable rookies like Todd Zeile, Jeff Russell, and Eric Davis who went on to have solid careers also sell in the $10-$15 range.

In addition to top rookie cards, the 1989 Topps set features many iconic veteran stars whose cards retain value. Perhaps the most valuable veteran card is Nolan Ryan’s card #145 which has sold for upwards of $500 in mint condition. As arguably the greatest power pitcher in MLB history with a record 7 no-hitters, autograph cards carrying Ryan’s signature can sell for thousands. Another power pitcher like Roger Clemens’ card #159 typically sells for $75-150 in high grade due to his Rocket’s 7 Cy Young awards and pitching dominance in the late 80s-90s.

Additional star veterans like Mike Schmidt, Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Tony Gwynn sustain prices around the $30-$50 mark for their Hall of Fame careers and statuses as legends of the game. Schmidt slammed 548 career home runs while Smith and Gwynn were generational talents at their positions who racked up accolades and championships. Cleanup hitter Wade Boggs was the model of consistency, winning 5 batting titles in the 1980s while maintaining a career .328 average.

Team and insert specialty cards from the 1989 Topps set also attract strong prices. Popular teams like the Giants, Yankees, and Dodgers whose fans passionately collect team sets containing all players on their favorite franchises typically sell for $100-150 complete depending on condition for the era. Select cards like the all-star or league leaders inserts signed by stars can also exceed $100. Mini posters of baseball legends inserted as oddball cards in wax packs also maintain demand north of $50.

While far removed from the true vintage era of the 1950s-1970s, the 1989 Topps set captured a who’s who of stars from the late 1980s and carries the distinction of containing some Hall of Fame rookie cards that are keys to those player’s careers. With the continued nostalgia for the junk wax era as collectors who grew up during that period mature, prices of elite rookies and veterans from the 1989 set are likely to hold steady or potentially increase further in coming years. For collectors pursuing iconic cards chronicling 1980s MLB, adding stars from the ’89 Topps set to their collections provides an accessible entry at affordable prices into that bygone period of baseball culture and nostalgia.

While not achieving the stratospheric values of the vintage cards prior to the junk wax era, the 1989 Topps baseball card set still warrants the attention of collectors seeking representation of immortal players from the 1980s packed within its 792 card checklist. Keys like the rookies of Bonds, Glavine, and elite veterans led by Nolan Ryan maintain legitimate secondary market demand. The 1989 Topps set provides an affordable and accessible bridge for collectors to acquire certified pieces of 1980s MLB history without paying current Record/Mint 10 PSA Gem Mint vintage prices.

1998 TOPPS FINEST BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1998 Topps Finest baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1990s collector era. Introduced in 1998 as a high-end product alongside flagship Topps and Bowman sets, Finest featured beautifully designed cards with shimmering foil accents and included some of the hobby’s most coveted rookie cards from that season. Even over 20 years later, the 1998 Topps Finest release remains a set that generates a lot of interest from collectors both young and old. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key aspects that contribute to the ongoing value and appeal of these cards.

One of the main drivers of value for 1998 Topps Finest cards is the presence of major rookie cards for players who went on to have Hall of Fame careers. Chief among these is Sammy Sosa’s rookie card, which can fetch hundreds of dollars in top-graded PSA 10 condition due to his iconic status in the late 90s home run chase with Mark McGwire. Sosa’s explosive rookie season of 49 home runs immediately made his 1998 Finest RC a highly sought-after card. Other HOF rookie cards like Nomar Garciaparra, Todd Helton, Andruw Jones, and Mark McGwire also hold solid value and remain popular with collectors two decades later.

Another huge factor is the inclusion of major stars in their primes like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Tony Gwynn, Cal Ripken Jr. and others. Cards of elite 90s players like these will always retain collector interest since that era is looked back on so fondly. Some especially eye-catching parallels and refractors of top stars can sell for over $1000 in top condition. The set also featured several popular players having breakout seasons, such as Juan Gonzalez, Mo Vaughn, Jeff Bagwell and Pedro Martinez.

In terms of design and production quality, Topps Finest sets the high bar that the brand is known for. The shimmering 3D foil accents give each card a spectacular pop that is mesmerizing to collectors. When combined with the sharp close-up photography common to the Finest line, it’s easy to see why these cards were considered the creme de la creme luxury items of the period. Even trivial Commons and parallels have an alluring collectibility that keeps the set as a whole considerably more valuable than a typical mainstream release.

rookie cards from that season hold value and remain popular with collectors even over 20 years later. Part of what makes 1998 Finest so significant is the immense talent crops that entered the league during that period in baseball history. Rookie cards like Nomar Garciaparra, Andruw Jones, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, and Todd Helton all debuted that year and went on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers, cementing those rookie cards as all-time iconic pieces for collectors.

The huge influx of new collecting interest since the Covid-19 pandemic has also driven renewed enthusiasm and higher prices for vintage 1990s star cards and rookie cards in the recent year. Collectors both young and old seeking affordable access points to the high-end vintage market have turned to sets like 1998 Finest that offer elite 90s content without requiring six or seven figure budgets. As a result, auctions and sales of mint 1998 Finest cards on eBay and through PWCC and Goldin Auctions are seeing numbers rise consistently versus a few years ago.

When assessing condition, 1998 Finest holds up remarkably well after two decades of storage compared to other wax paper-based cardboard from the era. Finding high-grade examples suitable for professional grading at PSA or BGS is still challenging but yields the best returns. Any SGC- or Beckett-graded rookies or stars from this set in Gem Mint 9-10 condition will earn a nice premium over raw copies in equally appealing eyes-appeal shape. Even lesser star rookies and commons can gain value when professionally authenticated and encapsulated at the top end of their respective scales.

With the continued interest in 1990s based collections, high values being realized for elite vintage content, and the undeniable beauty of the cards themselves, 1998 Topps Finest is undoubtedly a stand-out release from that period that has staying power for new and old collectors alike. The thrilling rookie class, awe-inspiring star talent photographs, and unrivaled style combine to make this one of the true blue chip investments that is worth strong consideration when putting together an all-time set registry or single card PC. With no signs of slowing down twenty-four years after release, 1998 Finest looks poised to appreciate further as one of the iconic modern issues.

BASEBALL CARDS SHOPS NEAR ME

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for generations of collectors. From the early tobacco cards of the late 19th century to the modern era of licensed products from companies like Topps, Panini, and Upper Deck, baseball cards have maintained their popularity as a fun and engaging pastime. For those looking to start or expand their baseball card collection, visiting a local baseball card shop can be a great way to search for rare and valuable finds.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, baseball card shops offer a unique experience for fans of all ages to browse collections, talk shop with other collectors and dealers, and look for that elusive rookie card or autographed relic to add to your collection. While online retailers have their place, there’s nothing quite like perusing the aisles of a local card shop in person. You never know what unexpected gems you might come across.

Below is a look at some of the top baseball card shops in major metropolitan areas across the United States that are worth checking out if you’re looking to explore your local scene. Be sure to call ahead or check store websites and social media for current business hours, inventory, and COVID-19 protocols before visiting.

Atlanta Area:

Championship Card Attic – Located in Marietta, this spacious shop boasts over 35,000 square feet of cards, memorabilia, supplies, and more stretching back over 50 years of collecting. Championship Card Attic prides itself on its vast inventory of vintage and modern cards.

High End Cards – In Duluth, High End Cards specializes in rare, game-used autographs and memorabilia cards in pristine condition. Serious collectors will find some of the highest graded vintage and modern rookies here.

The Great American Card Shop – Conveniently located in Smyrna, this family-owned shop is a fun stop for collectors of all ages and interests. In addition to cards, you’ll find supplies, unopened wax boxes, and a friendly community atmosphere.

Chicago Area:

Chicago Sports Collectibles – In Elk Grove Village, CSC has over 30 years of experience and tens of thousands of cards, autographed items, and more stocked floor to ceiling. It’s a must-visit for Windy City card fans.

Baseball Card Exchange – With multiple Chicagoland locations including Niles and Schaumburg, BCX has you covered wherever you are. Huge inventory, knowledgeable staff, and regular events make this a top local option.

Sports Cards Plus – In Oak Lawn, SCP offers a wide selection of modern and vintage baseball, basketball, football, and more. Friendly service and competitive prices bring collectors back time and time again.

Dallas/Fort Worth Area:

Sports Cards Plus – With two DFW locations in Southlake and Euless, SCP caters to all collecting interests with individual cases dedicated to various sports and eras.

Game Time Sports Cards – In Mansfield, this family-owned shop offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere along with boxes of unopened wax and singles from the past and present.

Play It Again Sports Cards – Part of the nationwide chain, the Plano location stocks new and used cards, supplies, and more in a bright, organized space perfect for browsing.

Los Angeles Area:

Collector’s Edge – In Pasadena, this shop is a must-visit destination with a massive selection spanning the entire history of the hobby. Knowledgeable staff, events, and bargain bins add to the appeal.

Burbank Sports Cards – Conveniently located right off the 5 freeway, Burbank Sports Cards stocks new releases and has buyers on the hunt for valuable vintage finds daily.

Sports Card Trader – With shops in Torrance and West Covina, SCT offers a wide-ranging inventory, supplies, and the chance to trade or sell your duplicates.

New York City Area:

Stadium Sports Cards – Located in Manhattan’s Theater District, Stadium Sports Cards is the biggest and best baseball card shop in the city, boasting tens of thousands of cards and memorabilia items on display.

Gray Flannel Baseball Cards – In Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Gray Flannel offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere along with a carefully curated selection of vintage and modern singles and sets focused on baseball.

Cardboard Memories – On Long Island in Westbury, Cardboard Memories has you covered for all your collecting needs with unparalleled customer service and events in a spacious storefront.

Whether you’re in a major city or small town, searching online can help uncover local independent shops and national chains worth checking out. With the camaraderie of other collectors and the thrill of the hunt for treasures, baseball card shops provide a fun social experience that helps keep the hobby vibrant for future generations. So get out there and support your local card shop – you never know what you might find!

BASEBALL CARDS AND PRICE GUIDE

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for over a century. Collecting and trading baseball cards is a fun way for fans of all ages to engage with America’s pastime. Whether you have a few cards from childhood or a massive collection spanning decades, staying informed on the value of your cards is an important part of the hobby. This is where baseball card price guides come in.

Price guides provide estimated values for baseball cards in different conditions. They can help collectors determine which cards in their collection are common or rare, as well as track how prices change over time. While no guide is a definitive source of value, reputable guides produced by industry leaders provide a good baseline for what cards in similar condition have sold for recently. Having a general sense of a card’s worth helps collectors make informed decisions about purchases, trades, and long-term investments.

The Beckett Baseball Card Price Guide is considered the gold standard reference for baseball card values. Published annually, Beckett’s guide features estimated prices for hundreds of thousands of cards from the 1880s to present day. Each card listing includes details on the set and year it was issued, as well as pricing guidelines for the card in PSA/BGS graded mint, near mint-mint, excellent, very good, good, fair, and poor conditions. Beckett values are based on sales data collected through their marketplace as well as industry-wide auction results. For rare, high-dollar cards, Beckett provides a range instead of a fixed price to account for variability in condition specifics. Their guide is available in print, digital, and app formats for easy access anywhere.

While Beckett leads the industry, other respected price guides collectors may want to reference include the Sports Market Report Price Guide and the Cardboard Connection Online Price Guide. Sports Market Report has published baseball card price guides continuously since the early 1980s. Their guide lists values for cards from the 1950s to present in PSA/BGS grades as well as raw condition. Cardboard Connection is a free online database that provides estimated values based on eBay and collector site sales over the previous six months. Their extensive searchable database allows collectors to look up individual cards.

In addition to general references, price guides focused on specific eras, sets, and players are valuable resources. The Topps Baseball Card Price Guide details values for Topps issues from 1952 onward in the same PSA/BGS grading format as Beckett. Heritage Auctions and Robert Edward Auctions both offer guides focused on high-end vintage cards from the T206 to 1950s sets. League-specific guides from the National Baseball Hall of Fame Breakers of the Code book series provide history and estimates for cards of individual Hall of Famers.

While price guides serve as a starting point, the true value of any given card is determined by what someone is willing to pay for it at a given time. Market forces and collector demand mean prices can fluctuate significantly based on current trends and availability. Rarity also plays a major role – the fewer high-grade examples exist of a certain card, the more valuable it becomes over time. Contextual factors like a player’s career achievements or pop culture prominence may cause short-term price spikes as well. As such, using recent auction comps and sales histories is important for assessing a card’s current marketplace value.

Grading is another factor that can greatly impact a card’s worth. The leading third-party authentication and grading services, PSA and BGS, assign cards numerical grades of 1-10 based on criteria like centering, corners, edges and surface quality. Even minor differences in grade can result in huge price variations, as higher grades command strong premiums due to their relative scarcity. Ungraded “raw” cards are generally valued at a grade level below what they would likely grade at professionally to account for potential hidden flaws. Condition truly is king when it comes to determining a vintage card’s value.

While price guides provide collectors with useful context, the best way to establish a card’s true value is to consult with experienced dealers and representatives from major auction houses. Industry professionals stay on top of constantly changing market conditions and can offer knowledgeable assessments of rare cards based on comparable sales. Local card shops and show vendors are also great resources for casual collectors to get a sense of what their more common cards might be worth in the current marketplace. Online communities like SportsCardForums allow collectors to post cards and get valued opinions from other hobbyists as well.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector looking to insure your prized possessions or a new fan hoping to liquidate a childhood collection, having at least a basic understanding of price guides is important for properly caring for and potentially profiting from your baseball cards. With so much variability in rarity, condition, and demand, guides should only be used as a starting point – but they remain invaluable tools for navigating the ever-changing world of memorabilia valuation in America’s favorite pastime. Staying educated on price guide resources is key to maximizing enjoyment from this beloved hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS 63017

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Baseball Card 63017 – Hank Aaron 1957 Topps

Widely considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Hank Aaron debuted with the Milwaukee Braves in 1954 and went on to have one of the most decorated careers in MLB history. His rookie baseball card from 1957 Topps, card number 63017, captures him in his early years and remains one of the most iconic and sought after cards from the 1950s. Let’s take a closer look at this piece of baseball history.

Aaron’s rookie season was one to remember, batting .280 with 13 home runs and 69 RBI in his debut campaign. While these numbers may not jump off the page, they were impressive for a 20 year old rookie playing in the hitter-unfriendly Milwaukee County Stadium. Baseball card collectors recognized his early talent, and Aaron’s ‘57 Topps rookie has become one of the most prized vintage cards over the past 60+ years.

In the photo on the front of card 63017, Aaron is shown batting from the left side with a classic open stance. He wears the classic dark Braves road jersey with script “Milwaukee” written in old English font across the chest. Topps photographers expertly captured Aaron’s smooth, powerful swing which would go on to shatter numerous home run records. The backdrop surrounding Aaron is light gray, allowing the dark colors of his uniform and muscular physique to stand out.

Flipping the card over, stats from Aaron’s ‘56 season are shown including his batting average, home runs, RBI totals as well as how he fared against right-handed and left-handed pitching. Also included is a brief bio highlighting his achievements as a 20 year old rookie outfielder for the Braves in ‘56. The famous “Aaron Swing” caption runs across the bottom, recognizing even at a young age the uniqueness and effectiveness of his batting style.

In the decades since, Aaron’s ‘57 Topps rookie card has understandably skyrocketed in price to the point that high graded examples can sell for well into the six figures at auction. This is due not only to Aaron’s brilliance on the field, but also because relatively few of his rookie cards survived the years in pristine condition compared to what was mass produced. The combination of his legendary playing career and rarity of choice specimens make card 63017 the crown jewel of any serious baseball card collection from the 1950s.

Aaron would go on to have one of the most decorated MLB careers of all-time. He slammed a then-record 755 home runs over 23 seasons, a record that stood for over 30 years until broken by Barry Bonds in 2007. Aaron also still holds the all-time RBI record with 2,297, the all-time total bases record with 6,856, and was a career .305 hitter. He was a 25-time All-Star, 3-time Gold Glove winner, 2-time batting champion, and NL MVP in 1957 while playing the bulk of his career for the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves. Aaron was simply one of the most complete players to ever step on a baseball diamond and his dominance is reflected in the rarity and value of his 1957 Topps rookie card over 60 years later.

For collectors, finding high quality specimens of card 63017 in pristine condition is extremely difficult. Even well-centered examples in Excellent-Very Good condition with minimal creasing, edge-wear or scratches across the surface can sell for over $10,000. But Graded Mint examples approaching gem mint that earned PSA or BGS grades of 8 or higher have sold at public auction for well over $100,000 due to their incredible state of preservation and significance as Aaron’s rookie issue. Perhaps no other1950s era baseball card better captures the early promise and foretelling of greatness that would become associated with Aaron throughout his legendary career.

This is why Hank Aaron’s 1957 Topps rookie card, card number 63017 to collectors, stands alone as one of the most prized possessions in any serious vintage baseball card collection. It tells the story of a young star on the rise who would eventually etch his name alongside Babe Ruth and take home the title of “Home Run King”. Few other vintage cards capture so pristinely the greatness that was destined to come, cemented among the all-time pantheon of baseball immortals. Card 63017 is truly a piece of baseball history frozen in time, deserving of the rarest and highest honors any card from the 1950s can achieve.

OLD BASEBALL CARDS VALUE LIST OF 1990

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Understanding the Value of 1990 Baseball Cards

The year 1990 marked an iconic time in baseball card history. While decades before and after saw massive boom periods, 1990 cards tended to be more reserved in terms of flashy rookie debuts and star player movement between teams. That doesn’t mean the cards from 1990 lack value today. In fact, for collectors looking to invest in vintage cards from a decade not over-saturated with highly valuable rookie selections, 1990 provides a number of standout options.

To best understand the potential value of cards from 1990, we must look at the climate of Major League Baseball and the collecting scene during that year. The late 80s saw interest in the hobby beginning to decline from its peak in the mid-80s. Traditionally, the last few years of any decade tend to be less desirable for new collectors. By 1990, the initial boom had faded, but card companies were still pumping out new wax at a heavy rate.

Upper Deck entered the scene in 1989 and began to challenge Topps’ longtime monopoly. This added new competition and player appearance contract battles impacted who appeared in what sets from year to year. 1990 Topps and Score sets featured many stars but lacked some due to conflicts. Donruss and Fleer also had releases that year. None featured the true “star power” rookies that can greatly impact longterm value.

The most impactful debuts from the 1990 season were pitcher Todd Van Poppel, who never panned out, and catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. Alomar had a long successful career but was never a superstar. No rookie sensations emerged alongside future Hall of Famers like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., or Frank Thomas who debuted in later years. This thinner rookie class doesn’t necessarily mean the cards are worthless though.

Several young talents took their first MLB steps in 1990 like Johnny Damon, Jeff Kent, Kevin Brown, Brady Anderson and others who went on to solid careers. Stars of the day like Nolan Ryan, Rickey Henderson, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and Roger Clemens still moved packs. Topps traded a set added autographs and oddball parallels too. Condition-sensitive cards featuring emerging 90s stars in pristine shape hold great longterm prospects.

When assessing 1990 card values, there are a few particular standouts that tend to demand premium prices relative to the overall sets:

Ken Griffey Jr Rookies (Upper Deck, Score): While Griffey’s true rookie season was in 1989 with only minor league cards, his first true MLB cards came in 1990 sets. High-grade copies can reach $500+ each.

Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie (Fleer): One of the true “holy grails” of the decade. Near-Mint to Mint PSA/BGS 9-10 copies have reached upwards of $20,000 at auction.

Nolan Ryan (Topps, Donruss): Being in the waning years of his incredible career, cards of Ryan’s later seasons hold nostalgia and command $50-100 each in top condition.

Robin Ventura Rookie (Topps, Score, Donruss): As he finally broke out in 1990 with his “Grand Slam Single”, Ventura rookies have gained steam approaching $100 PSA 9.

Frank Thomas Rookie (Upper Deck baseball, ProCards football): While his MLB debut was 1991, Thomas had proper rookie cards in 1990 football and UD baseball products, valuable at $500-1000 each graded.

Juan Gonzalez Rookie (Score): A mass-produced card, but Gonzalez would go on to have a monster career. High grades reach $250.

Randy Johnson Rookie (Bowman): One of the more scarce rookies around in PSA/BGS 9-10 condition at $1500+.

Ozzie Smith Final Season (Donruss): Cards commemorate the wizard’s last year in 1990. Sentimental value drives PSA 9s near $100.

Mark McGwire Rookies (Donruss, Score, Upper Deck): While not true “rookie” cards, McGwire was still developing in 1990. Low print run UD version does well at $100 PSA 9.

Condition, especially for the higher-end keys, is ultra critical when pricing 1990s cardboard. Centering, corners and edges hold supreme importance. Even top names need attractive, eye-popping copies to achieve serious collector attention. With smaller print runs than later years, scarcer parallels also offer potential long term as the market grows.

In summary – while 1990 lacked the true “superstar” rookies that can make or break a given year, savvy collectors can still find long-term profit potential among the solid veterans and emerging young players. Collectors who take the time to curate conditioned, visually appealing examples of the top 90 cards stand to see values steadily climb over the coming decades as the sets become more nostalgic and vintage. For those willing to hunt, 1990 rewards patience.

KMART BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 Kmart baseball card set was one of the more popular and iconic sports card issues of the late 1980s. At a time when the baseball card industry was booming, Kmart launched its own successful house brand of cards that became coveted by collectors both young and old. The 1987 set showcased every Major League player and even included short biographies on the backs of each card. With its affordable prices and wide distribution through Kmart stores, the 1987 Kmart baseball cards captured the attention of a generation of fans and created many lifelong collectors.

Kmart had released baseball cards under its name in prior years but the 1987 set stands out as one of the most complete and noteworthy issues. That season was a pivotal one in Major League Baseball as well, with players like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, and Tom Glavine beginning to make their mark on the league. Capturing the stars of that era for a mass-market price point helped the 1987 Kmart cards find immense popularity. The set totaled 792 cards and featured every player on a Major League roster at the start of the 1987 season, with separate cards for regular season and playoff/World Series performance.

Perhaps the biggest draw of the 1987 Kmart baseball cards was their affordable price. At a time when the hobby was getting increasingly expensive, with premium wax packs from Topps and Donruss costing $1 or more each, Kmart sold its entire base set of 792 cards for just $9.99. For collectors on a budget or kids pestering their parents at the checkout aisle, the Kmart cards offered an entry point into the exciting world of sports card collecting. Their widespread availability through Kmart stores across America also made them highly accessible.

In addition to the full-blown roster set of 792 cards, Kmart also sold smaller subsets at slightly lower prices. These included a 100-card “mini-set” of the Top 100 hitters, a 50-card subset of rookie cards, and 100-card sets focusing on pitchers or specific leagues/divisions. Kmart even produced special “traded” subset cards to depict player transactions that occurred after the regular season rosters were finalized. All of these extra cards added tremendous variety and chase appeal to the overall 1987 Kmart issue.

The design aesthetic of the 1987 Kmart cards was straightforward yet effective. On the front, each card featured a simple black-and-white player photo along with the team nameplate and player identifiers. The backs provided statistics from the previous season as well as a 30-40 word biography of each player highlighting career achievements up to that point. While not as flashy as higher-end issues from Topps, Donruss, or Fleer, the Kmart cards offered enjoyable retro designs that have stood the test of time. They remained decidedly “vintage” even as newer technologies were adopted across the wider hobby.

When it came to condition and durability, the 1987 Kmart baseball cards were constructed on thicker stock paper compared to earlier Kmart issues or budget brands from that era. While not quite on par with the slickness of gum-included trading cards, the thicker paper helped the Kmart cards hold up reasonably well to the rigors of being endlessly shuffled, sorted, and traded by enthusiastic young collectors. Light surface scuffs or edge wear affected most examples found today but serious damage is comparatively rare for a set that was so widely circulated in its time.

In the years since their 1987 release, the Kmart baseball card set has achieved strong nostalgia appeal and recognition as an iconic piece of sports card history. On the thriving vintage trading card market, complete sets routinely command over $200 while especially desirable rookie cards from the likes of Barry Bonds or Tom Glavine can exceed $100 individually. The affordability and widespread distribution that made them a hit in 1987 is now complemented by the warmth of nostalgia they invoke. Cleaner examples graded by services like PSA also bring premium prices from intense completionists seeking pristine copies of their childhood cardboard treasures.

For any collector, researcher, or fan interested in understanding the 1980s baseball card boom period, the 1987 Kmart issue stands out as an important touchpoint. It showed how the marriage of Major League rosters, budget pricing, and wide retail distribution could create a true mass-market phenomenon. For countless kids and adults at the time, it was also likely their first experience opening wax packs and admiring the photocards of their baseball heroes. Over 35 years later, those memories and the allure of the players featured still give the 1987 Kmart baseball cards a treasured spot in hobby history.

BASEBALL CARDS NEGRO LEAGUE

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The history of baseball cards chronicling the Negro Leagues is a fascinating one. While the first baseball cards were produced in the late 1860s depicting major league players, it wasn’t until over 50 years later that cards began to feature the stars of the Negro Leagues.

Despite the immense talent and popularity of Negro League teams and players in the first half of the 20th century, they were largely overlooked by the mainstream baseball card companies of the time like Topps, Bowman, and Fleer who focused solely on white major leaguers. This all changed in the late 1950s after Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947 and the civil rights movement began gaining momentum across America.

In 1956, the Chicago American Giants, one of the most prominent Negro League franchises, worked with the Sportscard Collectors Guild of Chicago to produce the first set of cards highlighting black baseball players. Known as the Chicago American Giants Set, it featured 36 players from the Negro National League along with managers, owners and other personnel. Each card measured 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches and had a color photo with basic stats and biographical information printed on the back.

While a pioneering first effort, distribution was limited and the set is now very rare among collectors. It helped pave the way for more extensive Negro League card sets in the years that followed. In 1959, the Sportscard Collectors Guild issued the 75-card Negro League Stars set which showcased top players from various Negro League teams in the 1930s-1940s era before integration. Larger companies took notice of the growing interest in black baseball history.

In 1987, the hobby giant Leaf produced the breakthrough 528-card Complete Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set. It featured over 500 players, managers, owners and executives from the Negro Leagues’ founding in the 1920s through its demise in the 1950s after integration. Each card contained not only a photo but also career stats and biographical details that helped preserve the legacy of these overlooked trailblazers. The set was a huge success and remains the most complete retrospective of Negro Leagues figures ever assembled in card form.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, various regional sets and subsets were issued by smaller independent companies commemorating legendary Negro League franchises like the Kansas City Monarchs, Pittsburgh Crawfords and Homestead Grays. The two most extensive modern releases came from Donruss in 1992 and Topps in 2010. Donruss’ Negro League Stars card set totaled 144 cards of top players organized by team.

Then in 2010, Topps – one of the “Big Three” original baseball card manufacturers – produced their 206-card Negro Leagues Legacy Series as part of their flagship Topps Baseball set that year. It was the first Negro Leagues subset issued by Topps and featured stars from the 1920s-1940s organized by team as well as managers, owners and key figures from the Negro National and East-West Leagues. Each card contained both a classic black-and-white and color photo along with career stats and biographical information, representing Topps’ acknowledgment of the Negro Leagues’ rightful place in the sport’s history.

While it took nearly a century after the founding of the first Negro League teams, baseball cards have played a crucial role in preserving the legacy and achievements of black baseball for future generations. From those pioneering early Chicago American Giants and Negro League Stars sets of the 1950s-60s to the comprehensive Leaf and modern Topps/Donruss releases, baseball cards have helped shine a light on stars like Josh Gibson, Buck O’Neil, Cool Papa Bell and countless others who helped break color barriers in America’s pastime despite facing immense discrimination. Their stories and stats can now be appreciated by collectors and fans of all backgrounds thanks to the permanent historical records provided by Negro League baseball cards.

In conclusion, Negro League baseball cards have come a long way since those first modest Chicago sets of the 1950s. They have grown into vital historical documents that memorialize the talents, accomplishments and perseverance of the pioneers who played in the Negro Leagues prior to integration. By telling their long overlooked stories through visuals, stats and biographies on card stock, collectors and future generations can better understand black baseball’s significance within America’s broader civil rights movement. The Negro Leagues’ place in sports history is now firmly cemented thanks in large part to the growing library of cards commemorating its stars, teams and legacy.