BABE RUTH MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS

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Babe Ruth dominated Major League Baseball during his playing career from 1914 to 1935 as one of the greatest home run hitters of all time. Even decades after his retirement and death in 1948, Ruth remains one of the most iconic figures in sports history. Not surprisingly, his legendary status has made many of his early baseball cards incredibly rare and valuable collectors items.

Some of Ruth’s most prized cards were issued during the formative years of the modern baseball card era in the late 1910s and 1920s. During this period, tobacco companies like American Tobacco Company and Goodwin & Company began inserting baseball cards as incentives into packs of cigarettes and chewing tobacco to help promote their brands and players. One of Babe Ruth’s earliest and most elusive cards is his 1914 Baltimore News baseball card.

Issued while Ruth was still pitching for the minor league Baltimore Orioles, only a handful of the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth cards are known to exist today in various states of preservation. In mint condition, one of these century-old cards could conceivably sell for over $1 million given its rarity and significance as one of the first cards ever issued featuring the legendary slugger. A PSA 8 copy of the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth last sold for $240,000 in a 2016 auction.

Another exceedingly rare early Ruth card is his 1915 Cracker Jack issue. Like most cards of its era, it picturing Ruth with the then-Boston Red Sox. Ironically, the card was printed just months before Ruth’s famous trade to the Boston Red Sox that transformed him into the premier home run hitter of the dead-ball era. Only about 50 copies of the 1915 Cracker Jack Babe Ruth are known to collectors. In pristine mint condition, it would be one of the most valuable baseball cards in existence, likely worth over $2 million. The highest price ever paid for a PSA 8 copy was $216,000 in 2016.

Ruth’s rookie card from the 1916 Sporting News is also exceptionally rare, with fewer than 10 high-grade copies believed to exist. While not quite as scarce as the 1914 Baltimore News or 1915 Cracker Jack issues, a perfect PSA 10 1916 Sporting News Babe Ruth rookie would still command seven figures, possibly pushing close to $1 million or more. Even well-worn low-grade examples often sell for five-figure sums. A PSA 3 copy sold for $42,000 in 2018, demonstrating the strong demand for any Ruth rookie card in any condition.

The most iconic and widely produced of all Babe Ruth’s early cards is undoubtedly his 1920 Baseball Gum 2 Babe Ruth. Issued during Ruth’s first season with the legendary 1920s Yankees teams, the 1920 Baseball Gum card captured Ruth at the absolute peak of his playing career. While the set print run was much higher than his preceding cards produced in the mid-1910s, high-quality specimens remain extremely scarce. An unopened case of 1920 Baseball Gum cards sold at auction in 2016 for an astounding $996,000, showing the strong demand even for sealed product from a century ago.

Individually, a PSA 10 1920 Baseball Gum Babe Ruth in perfect condition would sell for over $1 million at auction. Even in lower grades, examples still command huge sums. A PSA 5 copy sold for $240,000 in 2017. The card’s affordability in any grade has made it an iconic collectible recognized even by non-sports collectors. Its enduring popularity and historical significance ensures the 1920 Baseball Gum 2 Babe Ruth will always be among the most valuable cards from the early 20th century market.

Ruth’s final iconic early card was issued in the 1922 E121-1 set produced by the American Caramel Company. Like the 1920 Baseball Gum issue, it depicted Ruth during his playing prime with the Yankees. While not quite as rare in high grades as some of his earliest 1910s cards, a pristine PSA 10 1922 E121-1 Babe Ruth would still be valued at over half a million dollars or more. Even well-worn lower grade copies often sell for five figures. The card stands as one of the last notable pre-Great Depression issues to feature Babe Ruth before the baseball card market underwent major changes.

As his playing career continued into the late 1920s and 1930s, Ruth received cards in various modern sets like 1933 Goudey and 1934 Goudey. While certainly desirable collectibles autographed, high-grade specimens from these later sets do not command the same record prices as his earliest 1910s/1920s tobacco and gum issues due to significantly higher production numbers. Any game-used, autographed Ruth card from any era remains an invaluable piece of baseball history.

In summary, Babe Ruth’s pioneering career and iconic status has made cards issued during his formative years with highest demand and value among collectors. From his exceedingly rare pre-debut 1914 Baltimore News to his best-known 1920s issues, pristine specimens continue to break auction records. While finding high-grade examples is extremely difficult, even well-worn copies still attract huge sums. As one of the first true superstars of professional sports, Babe Ruth’s legacy and collectibles will always be in high demand for generations of baseball fans.

BASEBALL CARDS LYNDHURST NJ

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The history of baseball cards in Lyndhurst, New Jersey spans over 100 years, dating back to the early 1900s when the hobby first started gaining popularity nationwide. Lyndhurst, located just outside of New York City in Bergen County, has long had a strong connection to the sport of baseball and the collecting of baseball cards.

Some of the earliest baseball card collectors and dealers in Lyndhurst can be traced back to the 1920s. Stores like Sam’s Sport Cards, which first opened in 1929, helped fuel the growing baseball card craze amongst local youth. Sam’s offered the latest packs of cards from companies like American Caramel and Candy Brothers. They also bought and sold individual cards, helping collectors complete sets or obtain rare finds. By the 1930s, card collecting had truly taken off in Lyndhurst and the surrounding communities.

In the post-World War II era of the late 1940s and 1950s, Lyndhurst saw a huge surge in its population as many young families moved to the town looking for affordable housing. This new generation of children became heavily involved in the pastime of collecting baseball cards. Stores saw long lines of kids hoping to get the newest series from Topps, Bowman, or Fleer. Meanwhile, card shows and conventions started taking place in local firehouses and VFW halls on weekends, drawing collectors from across New Jersey. Two of the biggest annual shows were held every July and December in Lyndhurst.

Throughout the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s, Lyndhurst remained a hotbed for baseball card collecting. Multi-generational card shop King’s Sport Cards, which opened in 1962, became a mecca where collectors would gather on weekend afternoons and evenings to trade, buy, and talk baseball. The shop hosted trivia contests and kept records of which customers amassed the most complete sets over time. Meanwhile, the rise of Lyndhurst Little League and Babe Ruth baseball in the community helped further fuel the connection between local youth and America’s pastime.

The late 1980s and early 1990s saw an explosion in the popularity and value of vintage baseball cards, as collectors now had more disposable income and sought nostalgic pieces from their childhood collections. This boom period was great for the businesses in Lyndhurst, as shops like Sam’s and King’s did record business buying and selling high-dollar rookie cards and complete sets from the 1950s and 1960s. It was also common to see cardboard boxes filled with disorganized collections being sold at local tag sales, with savvy collectors hoping to find buried treasures.

In the 2000s, Lyndhurst continued to have a strong collector presence, especially as the internet made the hobby more accessible and allowed for easier connecting and trading online. While brick-and-mortar card shops saw less foot traffic, King’s Sport Cards stayed in business by expanding their inventory of supplies, memorabilia, and offerings beyond just cards. The shop also hosted popular autograph signings with former MLB players. Meanwhile, the collectors themselves got older but the passion remained, as many enjoyed passing the hobby onto their own children and grandchildren.

The 2010s brought new excitement to the Lyndhurst card collecting scene. In 2012, Mike’s Sports Cards opened as the new local hub, carrying all the latest releases and stocking a vast vintage inventory in the back room. The shop started a highly popular league where players drafted virtual teams from cards and competed all season long. Meanwhile, the rise of graded vintage cards as investments brought new collectors and investors into the market. It wasn’t uncommon to see local collectors cashing in on their decades-old collections by selling valuable vintage rookie cards for thousands of dollars online.

Today, Lyndhurst remains a stronghold for baseball card collectors and enthusiasts in New Jersey. While the shops have changed names and owners over the decades, the spirit of the hobby has endured. Many lifelong collectors still reside in town and pass down their love of the cards. Meanwhile, new collectors are sparked every year, whether through family connections to the sport or by discovering the nostalgia and history within the cardboard. As baseball and its cardboard companions continue into a new century, the rich card collecting tradition in Lyndhurst looks poised to keep growing.

MOST VALUABLE MIKE SCHMIDT BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Schmidt is one of the greatest third basemen to ever play Major League Baseball. Over his 19-year career with the Philadelphia Phillies from 1972 to 1989, Schmidt smashed 548 home runs and won 10 Gold Glove Awards on defense. He was named the National League MVP Award three times and led the Phillies to their first World Series championship in 1980. Unsurprisingly, his baseball cards from his playing days are some of the most coveted and valuable in the hobby. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Schmidt’s top cards and what factors make them so desirable to serious collectors.

One of Schmidt’s crown jewel rookie cards is his 1973 Topps card. As one of the first widely available cards issued of the rising slugger, the 1973 Topps #658 has long been a key piece in any serious Schmidt collection. In gem mint condition, ungraded examples in this condition have sold for over $5,000 in recent years. If the card receives top grades of Mint 9 or Mint 10 from professional grading companies like PSA or BGS, values leap into the $8,000-$12,000 range. The 1973 issue marked Schmidt’s true rookie card debut and captured him in his early Phillies seasons before he established himself as a superstar. Clean high-grade versions command huge premiums because of their scarcity.

Another iconic Schmidt rookie is his 1972 World Series card from the annual Playball set produced that year. As one of the earliest available cards featuring “Mike Schmidt Phillies” on the front, the 1972 Playball card carries significant rookie pedigree, despite not technically being considered his true Topps rookie. Graded examples in Mint 8 or higher can bring in $3,000-$5,000 at auction depending on the population of higher grades. The card’s scarcity and visual significance as one of Schmidt’s first baseball cards issued make it a prized piece for serious collectors.

Schmidt’s true rookie season was actually 1971, but mainstream card manufacturers didn’t feature him that year. In the 1970s smaller regional card companies released sets targeting Philadelphia-area collectors that included Schmidt rookie cards years before Topps. One such scarce card is his 1971 Berks County Baseball issue, which often sells in the $800-$1,200 range for well-centered, intact versions. An even rarer Schmidt rookie is his 1971 Little Golden Philadelphia, only available in packs sold locally in the Philadelphia area during his debut season. If an example surfaces in high grade, it could command over $2,000. These ultra-rare early 1970s Phillies cards capture Schmidt in the infancy of his career.

In the 1980s, Schmidt entered his later MLB years and prime seasons with the Phillies. Perhaps the most recognizable card from this decade is his 1981 Fleer #132 card, which showcases Schmidt launching a home run. High-grade copies command huge sums, with PSA Gem Mint 10B versions selling for over $5,000 in recent sales. The iconic Fleer design and photo from Schmidt’s period of NL MVP dominance makes it an essential piece of his collection. His 1985 Topps Traded #63T card is also highly coveted, as it presents one of Schmidt’s final baseball card images in a Phillies uniform before retirement. Pristine mint condition copies can reach upwards of $800 for this late-career parallel issue.

Another major key Schmidt card comes from his 1981 Donruss Football Heroes subset. This insert features Schmidt in a nod to his brief and little-known minor league stint in football’s World Football League before focusing fully on baseball. Only 330 copies were printed, making it one of the true “holy grail” pieces for serious Mike Schmidt collectors. In near-pristine condition, it is valued at over $20,000, with higher grades potentially worth exponentially more as condition rarities. Its amazing rarity and connection to a bizarre footnote in Schmidt’s athletic past make it a true treasure.

Of course, Schmidt’s greatest moment came when he led the long-suffering Phillies to their first World Series title in 1980. Cards from Topps, Post, and other manufacturers that year highlighting Philadelphia’s championship carry premiums as a result. But perhaps the most significant is Schmidt’s iconic 1980 Topps Traded #100T gold stamp parallel issue. Limited to only 100 copies printed, this 1-of-100 card captured Schmidt celebrating on the mound after the final out of the 1980 Fall Classic. In Gem Mint condition, not a single verified graded example has ever crossed the auction block. Its unbelievable rarity and placement in Phillies lore make it arguably the single most valuable Mike Schmidt card in existence, with most experts speculating an unsigned PSA 10 could fetch well over $100,000.

In conclusion, Mike Schmidt’s tremendous playing career and significance to Philadelphia baseball history have made his vintage cards hugely sought after over the decades. From key early 1970s rookie issues to defining 1981 and championship 1980 cards, his top cards frequently command five-figure prices for high-grade copies. But the true crown jewels, like his 1981 Football Heroes insert or 1980 Topps Traded Gold #100T parallel, have the potential to shatter records due to their incredible condition rarity tied to one of the game’s all-time great sluggers. Schmidt’s legendary status continues to be reflected in the stratospheric values achieved for his classic baseball cards in the hobby.

1994 ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The class of 1994 rookie baseball cards was one of the deepest and most exciting rookie classes in the modern era. Led by future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas, the 1994 rookies also featured a host of other future stars and memorable players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookie cards from 1994 and what made this class so special.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Seattle Mariners: Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1994 rookie crop, Griffey Jr. had enormous hype entering the majors as the highly-touted son of longtime major leaguer Ken Griffey Sr. Traded from the Reds to Seattle in a blockbuster deal, Griffey Jr. would go on to have one of the greatest careers of all-time, winning 10 Gold Gloves and being elected to the Hall of Fame on the first ballot in 2016. Griffey Jr.’s rookie card remains one of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever made, with high-grade PSA 10 copies selling for over $100,000.

Frank Thomas – Chicago White Sox: Nicknamed “The Big Hurt”, Thomas exploded onto the scene by winning the AL Rookie of the Year and batting title in 1994 with a .353 average. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame career largely spent with the White Sox, winning two MVP awards. Thomas’ rookie card is one of the most coveted of the 1990s, with mint condition copies selling in the $5,000-10,000 range.

Derek Jeter – New York Yankees: Perhaps no rookie has ever had as big of an entrance as Jeter did when he debuted in 1995. Replacing an aging Don Mattingly at shortstop, “The Captain” would prove to be the perfect face and leader for restoring the Yankees dynasty. Jeter would appear in five World Series in his first six seasons and win five rings in total over his iconic 20-year Yankees career. His 1995 rookie PSA 10 card has sold for nearly $100,000.

Larry Walker – Montreal Expos: A Colorado native playing in Montreal, Walker burst onto the scene in 1994 to finish third in NL Rookie of the Year voting. Traded to the Rockies in 1995, Walker would have his finest seasons in the thin air of Denver and win three batting titles and an NL MVP in 1997. His Expos rookie card is a key piece for Montreal, NL East, and early-mid ’90s collectors.

Darren Daulton – Philadelphia Phillies: Known simply as “Dutch”, Daulton was the heart and soul of Philadelphia’s early 1990s teams as their longtime catcher. From 1987-1997 he was one of the game’s premier backstops, making two All-Star teams and captaining the 1993 “Macho Row” Phillies team that nearly reached the World Series. As one of the premier Phillies cards from the ’80s and ’90s, his 1987 Fleer Update rookie is a favorite of Philly collectors.

Jason Kendall – Pittsburgh Pirates: An early star at every level, Pittsburgh native Kendall reached the majors at just 20 years old in 1996 following a record-setting collegiate career at California. He spent his first 10 seasons with the Pirates establishing himself as a top defender at an offensive-starved position, making 3 All-Star teams. Kendall’s rookie cards remain popular with Pirates collectors today.

Paul Molitor – Toronto Blue Jays: A late bloomer, Molitor didn’t debut as a rookie until age 26 after starring in Milwaukee. But he was certainly worth the wait, going on to record his 3,000th hit and being elected to the Hall of Fame in 2004. Molitor’s playing days spanned 4 different decades and included a World Series win with Toronto in 1993. His Blue Jays rookie cards are valued by Canadian collectors in particular.

Moises Alou – Montreal Expos: Son of MLB great Felice Alou, Moises brought great power potential to the Expos from an outfield corner starting in 1992. He would have his top seasons for the Expos in the mid-1990s before being traded prior to their move to Washington. Alou emerged as one of the better all-around hitters of the late ’90s and 2000s, making 2 All-Star teams. He remains one of the better-known Expos alumni.

Carlos Baerga – Cleveland Indians: The diminutive Baerga made a splash as Cleveland’s starting second baseman from 1990-1996, making the All-Star team in each of his first three seasons and playing a key role on their 1995 AL pennant winner. Despite only playing 12 seasons in the majors, Baerga put together a very solid career at the plate and in the field, ending with a .283 average. He remains a favorite of Indians collectors.

David Cone – Kansas City Royals: Acquired by the Royals in a trade after several prospect-filled seasons in the minors, Cone exploded in his rookie season of 1987 to finish second in ROY voting with a 18-5 record and 2.73 ERA. He would go on to pitch until age 40 and win 5 World Series rings, famously throwing a perfect game for the Yankees in 1999 during his injury-plagued but memorable career. Despite beginning his career in Kansas City, Cone is probably better collected as a Yankee.

As you can see, the 1994 rookie class featured future Hall of Famers, perennial All-Stars, single-season standouts, and memorable role players across baseball’s franchises from the era. While Griffey and Thomas emerged as the true superstars, the depth of star power, franchise heroes, and memorable contributors from this group fueled excitement throughout the mid-late 1990s baseball boom. Their rookie cards remain some of the most prolific and widely collected from the Junk Wax era to this day thanks to their on-field performances and connections with fans from that baseball generation. Whether purchased as investments, for personal collections, or to reminisce about the great players and teams of that time, 1994 rookie cards endure as a unique snapshot of that exciting time in baseball history.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1908 DOWNLOAD

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Baseball cards have been around since the late 1800s and have grown tremendously in popularity over the decades. Part of the fun of collecting baseball cards is trying to determine the value of cards in your collection. For collectors of vintage 1908 baseball cards, finding an accurate price guide from over 100 years ago can certainly be a challenge. With some diligent research online, collectors today can get a good idea of what early 20th century baseball cards may be worth.

One of the first major sets of baseball cards was produced in 1908 by the American Tobacco Company and known as T206. These colorful tobacco era cards featured photos of players from that era and are among the most valuable vintage cards today. With over 500 different cards to find in varying conditions, the 1908 T206 set offers collectors a wide range to search for. Given the age of these cards, finding them in pristine mint condition is extremely rare. More common grades would be good or fair condition with some wear and aging. Naturally, condition is a huge factor that determines the price of any collectible over a century old.

While no digital price guides for 1908 baseball cards exist, knowledgeable collectors have compiled price guides based on sales data of T206 cards that have been professionally graded and sold over the years. The PSA SMR (Sports Market Report) and Beckett Baseball Card Price Guides are good resources to check for estimated T206 card values based on the player, card number, and precise grade. For example, a PSA NM-MT 7 graded Honus Wagner T206 card, arguably the most coveted card, has been known to sell for well over $1 million at auction. Most T206 cards in similar top grades would sell for thousands, not millions. Lower grades like PSA Good 2 could still fetch hundreds for a rare vintage card.

Beyond just the T206 set, other early 20th century tobacco era issues also contained baseball players that can hold value today. Examples include cards from 1910 to 1912 issues by tobacco brands like Old Mill, Sweet Caporal, Panama, etc. While not as renowned as the classic T206 set, finding high grade examples of stars from this later period in the tobacco era can still gain respectable prices in the thousands depending on condition, scarcity and demand. Notable PSA or SGC graded examples in the 5-8 range have sold online. Ungraded commons from these sets in worn low grades may only gain values of $50-100 due to abundance.

For collectors seeking 1908 baseball cards that depict specific players, it’s important to understand that not every star of that period had their own dedicated trading card issued. The rosters and photo selection of early 20th century tobacco sets were not fully comprehensive of every single professional player at the time. Notable omissions include legends like Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. Both players did have cards issued in later decades that are also highly valuable collectibles today. Cobb’s major card appearances were in the 1909-1911 T206 tobacco issues as well as 1915 and 1920 sets. His rare high graded examples can reach the six figure auction prices.

While a digital 1908 baseball card price guide may not exist due to the era, today’s collectors have many online resources at their fingertips to research values and auction prices of these coveted vintage pieces of sports history. Websites like PWCC Marketplace, Heritage Auctions, and eBay Completed Listings are great to browse for getting a general sense of what certain graded early 20th century cards have sold for. It’s also recommended to check out discussion forums where knowledgeable collectors share research and insights. With patience and diligence, anyone can become familiar with ballpark value ranges of their collection and discover hidden gems. Proper care and submission to professional grading services can unlock greater values and ensure condition preservation of these fragile relics from over a century ago.

For collectors of any vintage, value is not just about money but also the joy of learning baseball history. The earliest tobacco era cards offer a unique window into the players, uniforms, and culture of when professional baseball was first taking shape in the early 1900s. While a 1908 digital price guide is impossible, with some effort collectors can still get a good idea what their cards from that era could potentially be worth. But most of all, appreciating the historical significance of these fragile pieces of cardboard that have survived over a century since the teams they depict first took the field is what makes collecting vintage baseball cards truly rewarding.

BEST UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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Upper Deck is widely considered one of the premier manufacturers of baseball cards in the hobby. Since their founding in 1988, Upper Deck has produced some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever made. Here we will take an in-depth look at some of the best and most sought after Upper Deck baseball cards from the company’s history.

One of the earliest and most notable Upper Deck releases was their 1989 baseball card set. This was truly a groundbreaking set that helped revitalize the baseball card industry. Some of the standout rookie cards from the 1989 Upper Deck set include Ken Griffey Jr., Gregg Jefferies, and Ben McDonald. The Griffey Jr. rookie in particular is one of the most iconic and valuable cards ever made, routinely fetching thousands of dollars in gem mint condition. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for hundreds. The 1989 Upper Deck Griffey Jr. rookie is truly the holy grail for many collectors.

Another huge release from Upper Deck’s early years was the 1992 baseball card set. This set featured rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Derek Jeter. The Jeter rookie in particular has become one of the most sought after and valuable modern cards. Pristine mint copies have sold for over $100,000 at auction. But even well-centered near mint Jeter rookies can sell for thousands. The 1992 Upper Deck Chipper Jones rookie is also highly valuable, often reaching into the four figure range for top grades. This set helped cement Upper Deck as the brand to collect in the early 1990s.

In the late 90s, Upper Deck released several highly acclaimed and valuable series, like Collector’s Choice in 1997. This set featured the rookie cards of Todd Helton, Nomar Garciaparra, and Carlos Beltran, all of whom went on to have great MLB careers. The Helton and Garciaparra rookies especially hold significant value today. Upper Deck also had huge success with their 1998 baseball card release. Rookies like Kerry Wood, Nomar Garciaparra (again), and Andruw Jones made their debuts in this set. The Wood and Jones rookies have become quite valuable in the years since.

The turn of the century saw Upper Deck release several flagship sets that contained major star power and rookie debuts. Their 2000 baseball card set featured rookies for future stars like Albert Pujols, Lance Berkman, and Mark Prior. The Pujols rookie in particular is one of the most coveted modern cards, routinely selling for well into the five figures even in lower grades. Upper Deck’s 2001 release had rookie cards for Jimmy Rollins, Cliff Lee, and Alfonso Soriano that have also held their value well over time. 2002 saw rookies for future MVPs Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Phillips make their first card appearances in Upper Deck as well.

One of Upper Deck’s most acclaimed modern releases was their 2003 baseball card set. This set featured the rookie cards of future superstars like Dontrelle Willis, Johan Santana, and Josh Beckett. The Willis and Santana rookies in particular are some of the most valuable modern rookie cards on the market today. High graded versions can sell for tens of thousands. Other notable rookies from Upper Deck’s 2003 release include Carlos Zambrano, Jason Bay, and David Wright. This set really captured the next generation of MLB stars at the beginning of their careers.

More recently, Upper Deck has continued to produce rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and all-time great players. Their 2007 baseball card set featured the rookie cards of Ryan Braun, Troy Tulowitzki, and Cole Hamels, all of whom went on to have stellar MLB careers. 2010 saw the debuts of Buster Posey and Madison Bumgarner in Upper Deck as well. And their 2012 release contained the rookie cards of future stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Manny Machado, who have all become true icons of the game. Trout and Harper rookies from the 2012 Upper Deck set especially hold immense value today.

While Upper Deck has produced countless valuable cards over their history, some of their absolute best and most sought after releases featured the rookie cards of legends like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, Chipper Jones, Albert Pujols, Mike Trout, and Bryce Harper. Sets from the late 80s, early 90s, and 2000s especially contained star power that holds up extremely well to this day. Whether you’re a casual collector or serious investor, Upper Deck cards from these eras should be a priority if building a long-term baseball portfolio. Their track record of capturing the game’s all-time greats in their early careers is nearly unmatched.

VALUE OF KMART 20TH ANNIVERSARY BASEBALL CARDS

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In 1987, Kmart celebrated its 20th anniversary by issuing a special series of baseball cards that were given away with purchases at its stores. Known as the Kmart 20th Anniversary Baseball Card set, it featured 100 card fronts featuring current major league players from 1987 along with historic photos and statistics on the reverse sides. While the cards didn’t excite collectors at the time due to their availability through a large retail chain, they have taken on increased significance and value in the decades since.

The idea behind the Kmart baseball card set was to celebrate the company’s 20 years of business through a nostalgic look back at the history of baseball alongside current players. Each card featured a photo of a major leaguer from 1987 on the front along with basic statistics. On the backs, under the “Kmart Salutes Baseball’s Past” logo were historical black and white photos from the early 20th century alongside Statistic accomplishments and factoids from players in the early days of professional baseball.

Some of the historic players featured included Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron among others. The set provided a unique “then and now” perspective on the game. Though produced on thinner stock paper than standard baseball cards of the time, the fronts featured sharp color photos and the backs conveyed a sense of appreciation of the roots of America’s pastime. The cards would have retailed for around $1-2 a pack at Kmart but were mainly inserted as incentives with other purchases.

Initially, the Kmart baseball cards did not inspire much interest from serious collectors. As promotion items given away at a general retailer, they lacked the mystique of packs or boxes sold traditionally through hobby shops and sport card outlets. Many were discarded or ended up in shoe boxes and attics instead of organized collections. In the decades since their release appreciation has grown for their historical focus bridging past and present and their availability has dwindled greatly as unsold stock disappeared.

This increasing scarcity has seen valuation rise, especially for sought-after stars of the late 20th century featured on the fronts. Top players like Mike Schmidt, Nolan Ryan, Rickey Henderson, and Cal Ripken Jr. now command prices in the $10-25 range for mint condition examples on the secondary market. Complete sets in near-mint to mint condition have also gained value as collectors seek to obtain full runs of particular card issues. auctions over the past 5 years have seen estimated grades of 8-10 sell for $75-150 depending on the year.

Perhaps the most valuable card in the set is that of Andre Dawson, featured as a member of the Chicago Cubs in 1987. Not only was Dawson one of the game’s elite players at that time, winning the National League MVP award that year, but his choice of pose and expression resulted in an iconic baseball card image. In high grades of 8 or above, single Dawson cards can now sell for $50-100 individually. The card has become a highly sought vintage artifact depicting “The Hawk” at the peak of his career popularity.

While numbers printed of the Kmart set were high enough that single common cards are still attainable bargains, finding large portions of the set complete after 35 years requires more diligent searching. The combination of featuring both historic stars alongside the biggest names of the late 20th century MLB at a unique moment has given the cards lasting appeal for both casual fans and dedicated collectors. Examples in the highest available condition grades will likely continue their steady appreciation moving forward as one of the more recognizable baseball card issues produced outside the traditional sport card industry during the 1980s boom.

The Kmart 20th Anniversary Baseball Card set released in 1987 to celebrate the retailer’s history provided a unique photographic historical perspective bridging baseball’s past and present. While originally just promotional giveaways, the collectibility and value of the 100 card set has grown considerably over the decades as availability has dwindled. Key stars of the era like Andre Dawson have become particularly desirable, with complete high grade sets also attainable for dedicated collectors. The Kmart cards serve as an interesting historical capsule capturing the game at a special moment in time.

BASEBALL AND FOOTBALL CARDS NEAR ME

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Baseball and football cards are a classic American pastime enjoyed by collectors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to build your own collection or find rare vintage cards to add to yours, there are likely several local shops near you that specialize in trading cards of all kinds. Let’s take a look at some of the top places to find baseball and football cards in your area.

Local Card Shops

The cornerstone of any baseball and football card collecting community is the local card shop. These independently owned businesses are run by passionate collectors who want to share their hobby with others. They stock all the latest packs, boxes, and supplies while also buying, selling, and trading cards. Some shops even host events like release parties for new products or tournaments using virtual card games.

A few things to look for in a local card shop include a large inventory of both new and used singles, boxes from the current season, and back issue magazines from the hobby’s peak eras in the 1980s and 90s. Reputable shops grade and slab cards from the biggest names in the authentication industry like PSA, BGS, SGC to verify condition and authenticity. Customer service is also important – you want a place that fosters a friendly community atmosphere.

Ask other collectors in your area for recommendations on shops they frequent. Search online directories and Facebook groups too. Be sure to check store hours as many are small operations that may only be open limited days/evenings. Local shops are truly a one-stop-shop for all your card needs and the best places to find deals on items you want for your collection.

Card Shows and Conventions

For those looking to cast a wider net, card shows are events where dozens of vendors come together in one location to sell cards. Vendors can include individual collectors liquidating parts of their collection as well as larger professional dealers. Shows are a great way to browse thousands of cards from many different sources in one afternoon.

Some of the biggest and most renowned shows include the National Sports Collectors Convention held annually in different cities each summer. Regional shows also take place frequently across the country, many on a monthly basis. Admission is usually a nominal fee of $5-10. Look on event websites like SportsCollectorsDaily.com for upcoming dates and locations near you.

At shows, you’ll find everything from common base cards to rare game-used autographs from the biggest stars. Vendors are also more likely to have older vintage stock compared to local shops. It’s the best place for one-of-a-kind finds and to get a sense of current market values on different players and years. Make sure to bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards, and be prepared to negotiate on bigger ticket items.

Online Marketplaces

In the digital age, online marketplaces have become huge hubs of activity for the baseball and football card community. Websites like eBay and COMC (Collectors.com) host thousands of daily auctions and have massive searchable inventories from sellers around the world. This provides access to a much wider range of cards than what’s available locally.

When using sites like these, do your research on sellers to check their feedback and ensure items are accurately described and graded. Stick to highly rated sellers with a history of many positive reviews. For valuable vintage cards, only purchase those that come certified in a third-party holder like PSA/BGS to guarantee authenticity. Shipping costs should also be considered, as cards require extra care in transit.

Some key things to look for include popular rookie cards of current stars, vintage Hall of Famers from the pre-1980s, rare autographed memorabilia cards, and complete vintage sets in high grades. Sort search results by newly listed to have the first chance at new inventory being added. Make competitive offers on auction listings that haven’t received many bids yet. Online marketplaces are truly a global marketplace for baseball and football cards.

Social Media Communities

Facebook groups are another excellent online resource for connecting with the local card collecting community. Search terms like “[Your City/State] Sports Card Collectors” to find groups specific to your local area with hundreds or thousands of members. These groups serve as virtual hangouts where people can post their latest pickups, ask valuation questions, and organize in-person meets.

Groups are also a great way to buy and sell cards directly with other collectors. Many sellers offer competitive prices and will negotiate if purchasing multiple items together. Just be sure to only purchase from established members with a history of positive feedback. PayPal Goods & Services is recommended over sending payments as friends/family for protection.

Instagram is also a booming platform where individual collectors and shops showcase their newest acquisitions daily through photos. Following hashtags relevant to your teams like #YankeesCards or #CowboysFootballCards is a fun way to gain inspiration and see what types of cards others are finding. You never know – you may even come across a seller of something in your wishlist right within the app!

Final Thoughts

With a little searching, there are countless opportunities to grow your baseball and football card collection right in your own backyard. Local shops should be your first stop, but don’t forget about the larger card shows, online marketplaces, and social media communities also within reach. Most importantly, have fun meeting other collectors and don’t get discouraged if beginning the hunt. With some patience and luck, you’re sure to find treasures to cherish for years to come.

BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN IN 2018

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Baseball cards have long been a popular investment and collecting hobby for both casual fans and serious investors. The baseball card market sees fluctuations in prices year over year as certain players rise and fall in popularity and value. For 2018, here are some of the top baseball cards that experts predict will continue growing in value or present solid investment opportunities.

Rookie cards for young superstar players like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Mookie Betts are always wise long-term investments. Trout has established himself as the best player in baseball and his 2009 Bowman Chrome rookie card already sells for thousands in top condition. As Trout continues shattering records and cementing his legacy as an all-time great, his rookie card will only become more valuable with time. Harper and Betts are also young superstars still early in what look to be Hall of Fame careers, so holding onto their top rookie cards is a smart bet.

Veteran superstars still producing at an elite level also offer value. Cards of Albert Pujols, Clayton Kershaw, Max Scherzer, and Justin Verlander remain sound investments as these future Hall of Famers continue racking up accolades and awards deeper into their 30s. So long as they stay healthy and on the field, their classic rookie cards and top career parallels and refractors will hold and gain value for years to come.

Rookie cards for top young prospects like Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Eloy Jimenez, Forrest Whitley, and Kyle Tucker are another low-risk, high-upside area to target. If any of these uber-prospects emerge as the next big stars, their rookie cards could explode in price. And even if they don’t reach those heights, they still hold value as elite prospect cards. The 2016 Bowman Chrome Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rookie is already a hot ticket that could pay big dividends.

Vintage stars from the 1980s and 1990s also offer opportunity. Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards have skyrocketed in the last year and will likely continue their rise as Griffey mania sweeps the collecting world again. Other stars of that era like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Cal Ripken Jr., and Tony Gwynn have also seen renewed interest and sharp price increases on their best rookie cards from the late 80s. With the nostalgia factor high for these players who many collectors grew up watching, their vintage rookies seem poised to remain in high demand.

Rookie cards for breakout young stars are another area with huge upside. Players like Cody Bellinger, Aaron Judge, Francisco Lindor, Corey Seager, and Kris Bryant had explosive rookie seasons in recent years. If they continue on a Hall of Fame career path, their already valuable rookie cards could multiply in price dramatically. Bellinger’s 2017 Topps Chrome Update rookie sold for around $100 last year but could be worth thousands long-term. Judge’s 2017 Topps Series 1 rookie was a bargain under $20 in early 2017 but now sells for hundreds.

Autograph cards for franchise players offer a unique collectible for super-fans but also strong potential as an investment. Top signed rookie cards for the likes of Trout, Harper, Kershaw, Verlander, Scherzer and more command thousands due to their rarity and appeal to serious collectors. Lower-end autograph cards of top prospects also carry value that can explode if the player emerges. The autograph market shows no signs of slowing either, keeping signed cards a viable area for both collecting and investing.

Rookie patch autograph cards that combine the rookie card, autograph, and on-card memorabilia all in one super-short-print card offer the ultimate in rarity, fan appeal, and long-term investment upside. Trout, Harper, and Judge rookies with swatches of their first MLB jerseys number less than 10 copies in existence. While costing 5 figures now, such one-of-a-kind pieces could eventually sell 6 or even 7 figures to the right motivated collector one day. They represent the pinnacle achievement for any baseball card investor.

Focusing on top young stars, Hall of Famers still in their prime, elite prospects, and vintage 80s/90s stars offers the best risk-adjusted upside in the baseball card market for 2018. Diversifying across these areas mitigates risk while targeting the cards with the most potential for long-term appreciation. Rookie cards, autographs, and one-of-a-kind memorabilia cards provide unique collectibles and investments. By doing thorough research and targeting the right players, serious collectors can build baseball card portfolios poised to grow substantially in value for years to come.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS NOLAN RYAN

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the entire franchise’s history. Featuring 660 total cards, the ’87 Topps set showcased some of the biggest stars and best teams from the 1986 MLB season. No player loomed larger that year than Texas Rangers right-hander Nolan Ryan, who graced the cover in one of his most memorable baseball card appearances ever.

Ryan had established himself as one of baseball’s most dominating pitchers by 1987, entering his age-40 season with over 4,000 career strikeouts to his name. In 1986, he went 16-10 with a 2.76 ERA and 225 strikeouts for the Rangers, leading the American League in K’s for the 10th time in his career. Ryan’s outstanding season earned him the #1 spot in the 1987 Topps issue, featuring a close-up action photo of the intimidating flamethrower winding up to deliver one of his blazing fastballs.

The ’87 Topps Nolan Ryan card stands out for several reasons. For one, it perfectly captures Ryan’s intensity on the mound, with his gritted teeth and fiery eyes communicating the intensity and competitiveness that had long defined his playing style. Seeing Ryan in mid-delivery made for an incredibly dynamic and dramatic cover image. Adding to the card’s iconic status was the fact it spotlighted Ryan during arguably the prime of his career, as he was still regularly topping 100 mph in his fastball into his late 30s and early 40s.

Interestingly, Ryan’s lone 1987 Topps card does not list any of his impressive statistical accomplishments from 1986. This was likely due to the card being finalized and sent to print before the season had fully concluded. Despite the omission of stats, the raw energy and explosiveness conveyed through Ryan’s full-effort pitching motion said it all. His no-nonsense, hard-throwing approach made him the perfect symbol to represent the raw competitiveness of America’s pastime.

Due in large part to its showcase of the legendary Nolan Ryan at the peak of his powers, the 1987 Topps issue is beloved by collectors today. In near-mint condition, PSA-graded examples of Ryan’s flagship card today sell for thousands of dollars. The cover artwork in particular has become one of the most iconic baseball card images of all time. Countless fans still have vivid memories of first seeing young Ryan staring back at them from the front of their 1987 Topps packs during childhood.

While not listing his stats, the 1987 Topps Nolan Ryan card did include some brief career highlights up to that point. It noted his four career no-hitters, led by his record fifth no-hitter thrown on September 26, 1981. It also gave credit to his then-record 329 career games started. Of course, Ryan would shatter numerous other career records in the years after his ’87 Topps appearance, including strikeouts and career wins, cementing his legacy as perhaps the greatest power pitcher in MLB history.

Within the full 1987 Topps set itself, Ryan’s action-packed cover image is followed by his main base card tucked inside at card number 462. This interior card finally provides stats from Ryan’s phenomenal 1986 season, including his 16-10 record, 2.76 ERA and 225 strikeouts. Clean-cut in his Rangers uniform, Ryan stares directly at the camera with an intimidating 1,000-yard stare that seems to dare any batter to step into the box against him. Even at age 40, Ryan remained the most feared righty in the game.

While highly memorable for its iconic showcase of the great Nolan Ryan, the 1987 Topps issue also featured several other talented ballplayers and teams from the ’86 campaign. Stars like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson and Jose Canseco all received prominent base cards early in the set. The World Series champion New York Mets were well-represented too, with memorable cards for Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry and Gary Carter. Rated sets from the mid-1980s are also known for their fun extras like manager cards, league leader cards and playoff summary cards added to the end.

In the 35 years since its original release, the 1987 Topps baseball card set has grown to legendary status among collectors both young and old. Nobody represents the vintage issue’s greatness better than the intimidating, and striking action image of Nolan Ryan featured so prominently on its iconic cover. Whether judging cards based on stats, storylines or just sheer artistic beauty, Ryan’s ’87 Topps cover stands above virtually all others as perhaps the single greatest baseball card ever produced.