BASEBALL TRADING CARDS SIZE

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The size of baseball trading cards has evolved significantly over the decades since the earliest baseball cards first started appearing in the late 1800s. Understanding the history of card sizes provides valuable context about the card collecting hobby and how it has developed alongside changes in printing technology and consumer interests.

One of the very first baseball card sets was produced in the late 1880s by a tobacco company as a promotional insert in cigarette packs. These early cards measured about 2 inches by 3 inches and featured individual player portraits with basic stats and team information printed on the back. As baseball grew in popularity through the early 1900s, more tobacco companies began including baseball cards in cigarette and chewing tobacco packages. The standard size for these tobacco era cards from the late 1880s through the early 1910s remained around 2×3 inches.

In 1909, the American Tobacco Company launched what is considered the most famous early baseball card set – the iconic T206 collection. These colorful and intricately designed cards upped the production quality significantly from earlier tobacco issues. They also increased slightly in size, measuring approximately 2 1/4 inches by 3 1/4 inches. The increased dimensions allowed for more detailed artwork and larger player images compared to the earliest 2×3 cards. The T206 set became one of the most coveted among collectors and helped elevate the status of baseball cards beyond mere promotional inserts.

As cigarette packaging transitioned away from the original paper packs that could hold loose cards in the mid-1910s, the baseball card inserts declined sharply. Card manufacturers like Bowman Gum and Topps Chewing Gum began inserting individual cards into gum and candy packs instead. The size of these standalone gum and candy era cards from the 1920s through the 1950s settled into a standard dimension of approximately 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. This mid-sized card format allowed for vibrant color illustrations and photos on the fronts with readable player stats on the backs.

In the post-World War II era as the modern baseball card boom took off, Topps dominated the market and maintained the 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inch size for their annual sets from 1952 onward. In 1957 Topps experimented by producing a larger format set called Topps Wide Vision. These cards ballooned out to a whopping 3 1/2 inches by 5 inches, making them almost double the surface area of a standard card. While an interesting novelty, the oversized Wide Vision cards did not catch on long-term with collectors. Topps returned to the tried-and-true 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 size that remained king through the 1950s-60s heyday of the hobby.

As the 1970s rolled around, competition began heating up in the baseball card industry beyond just Topps. New manufacturers like Fleer and Donruss entered the annual set fray. Seeking differentiation, Fleer debuted slightly smaller 2 1/4 x 3 1/4 inch cards in 1981. This slightly more compact card proved popular enough that Topps eventually downsized to match Fleer’s dimensions in 1982 as well. The slightly smaller “2 1/4 x 3 1/4 inch” format became the new standard size that dominated production well into the 1990s.

In the early 1990s, the baseball card boom was reaching new heights with ultra-premium sets featuring high-gloss photo cards and inserts. The 2 1/4 x 3 1/4 size constrained how elaborate these premium cards could be within the traditional rectangular shape. Bowman broke the mold in 1992 by introducing their “Bowman Chrome” refractors, which were square-shaped at 2 1/2 inches per side. This gave Bowman more real estate to showcase glossy photos without borders. Square cards soon became all the rage, with brands like Upper Deck and Score joining in as well.

By the mid-1990s, the standard size had transitioned fully to 2 1/2 inch squares across the industry. Manufacturers kept experimenting with different shapes and dimensions to one-up each other. Ultra and Finest introduced longer horizontally-oriented “slab” cards measuring 6 inches by 2 1/2 inches. Upper Deck also produced “Extended Series” cards reaching 6 inches in length. These elongated premium cards allowed for even more vivid photography at the expense of no longer fitting neatly into standard card boxes and albums.

In the 2000s and 2010s, as the sports card market fragmented beyond just baseball into basketball, football, soccer and more, card sizes diversified further still. Brands like Panini and Leaf introduced various non-standard shapes like ovals, diamonds and circles. Insert cards ballooned to massive dimensions over 5 inches tall. Meanwhile, the mini/relic card trend produced postage stamp-sized fragments of jerseys or bats. Today’s collectors have far more options than ever before when it comes to card shapes and sizes to choose from across many sports.

The history of baseball card sizes is one of constant evolution as the hobby adapted to changes in printing technology, insert packaging, and collector interests over more than a century. From the earliest 2×3 inch tobacco issues to today’s array of non-standard shapes and jumbo premium formats, card dimensions have grown dramatically alongside the expanding baseball card industry itself. Understanding how sizes have changed provides valuable context for appreciating the eras and growth of this uniquely American collecting phenomenon.

FIRST YEAR FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The Fleer Corporation first began producing baseball cards in 1956, marking the first direct competition to the long-dominant Topps brand. At the time, Topps had held a monopoly on the baseball card market for over a decade with no other company producing cards featuring active Major League players with their teams’ permission. In 1956 Fleer was able to obtain licenses from a handful of teams and players to produce its own set.

The 1956 Fleer baseball card set contained a total of 133 cards and featured players from 8 different teams – the Boston Red Sox, Brooklyn Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Braves, New York Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and St. Louis Cardinals. Fleer was unable to obtain licenses from the other 8 teams at the time, most notably the New York Yankees who were the biggest franchise in baseball. Each card in the set measured approximately 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches and featured a color photo of the player in action on the front. On the back was statistical information for that season as well as a short biography.

One of the biggest differences between the 1956 Fleer set and Topps’ offerings was the photography. Whereas Topps used simple headshots on a solid colored background, Fleer went for action shots on the field to make the cards more visually interesting and appealing to collectors. The quality of the photos varied widely from card to card. Some were quite blurry while others came out nicely focused. This was due to limitations in photographic technology and printing at the time which made consistency challenging across the entire set.

In addition to variations in photo quality, there were also differences in the colors used for the borders which have led collectors to categorize the 1956 Fleer cards into several different “color variants.” The most common variants seen are red, blue, green, and gray borders. Within each color there may also be slight shade variations. The red border variant is considered the most common while blue and green are somewhat scarcer. The gray border is the rarest variant and more valuable to collectors.

Another noteworthy aspect of the 1956 Fleer set was the inclusion of player signatures on many of the cards. At the time, Topps did not feature any autographed cards in their sets. Fleer took the novel approach of having some players personally sign their cards, likely during photo shoots. Stars like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Warren Spahn are among those who signed. The signed cards are now highly valuable to collectors. It was later discovered that not all signatures were completely authentic. Some were reportedly pre-printed facsimiles.

When the 1956 Fleer set was released, it sold fairly well despite competition from the more established Topps brand. However, Topps took issue with Fleer using photos of current players without permission. Topps owned the exclusive rights to Major League photos as part of their player contracts. This sparked a major legal battle between the two companies that went all the way to the Supreme Court. In the end, the Court ruled in favor of Topps, dealing a major blow to Fleer’s baseball card operation. They would struggle to compete on level ground for many years.

Despite the legal issues, the 1956 Fleer baseball card set has gone down as a very important and historic release in the hobby. It was the first serious competitor to Topps and helped spark greater innovation and competition that benefited collectors. Today, high grade 1956 Fleer cards in the most popular variants can sell for thousands of dollars. The set remains one of the most iconic in the early years of the modern baseball card era. It represents when Fleer took a risk to enter the market and create something new, even if they faced challenges along the way. Collectors now look back with appreciation for Fleer’s pioneering effort over 65 years ago.

The 1956 Fleer baseball card set was truly groundbreaking as the hobby’s first serious competitor to the long-dominating Topps brand. While it faced legal and production issues, it helped push the industry forward with its novel use of action photos and autographs. Over six decades later, the set continues to hold historical significance and cards remain a popular collectible for enthusiasts of the early modern baseball card era. The 1956 Fleer release was an ambitious beginning that showed the potential of competition to create new collecting opportunities and experiences for fans.

STORING BASEBALL CARDS IN BASEMENT

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Storing your baseball card collection in the basement can work well as long as you take proper precautions to protect your valuable cards from moisture, pests, and other environmental hazards that are common in basement spaces. Basements do provide large areas for storage that can accommodate extensive card collections. Without the right storage solutions and conditions, your prized cards could be at risk of damage over time.

The biggest concern with storing baseball cards in a basement is moisture. Basements are prone to high humidity levels as the area is typically below ground level. Even basements that do not actively flood are still susceptible to moisture seeping through walls or rising up through the concrete floor. High humidity can cause cardboard to warp, paper to discolor and fade, and even mold growth on the surfaces of cards left in damp conditions for extended periods. Moisture is the number one enemy of collecting quality that can diminish card values.

To protect against moisture issues, it is essential to have a dehumidifier running constantly in the basement if using it for long-term storage of baseball cards. Make sure to regularly empty the dehumidifier reservoir and check that it is functioning properly to maintain low humidity levels preferably below 50% relative humidity. Desiccant dehumidifiers or portable units with easy-empty reservoirs work well for basements. You can also invest in humidity sensors and gauges to monitor moisture content.

Another option is to install a vapor barrier and/or insulation on any exterior basement walls. This creates a barrier to trap moisture before it reaches your storage area. Floor drains, sump pumps, and a functioning drain tile system around the exterior of the home’s foundation also help divert groundwater away. If there is evidence of past moisture issues like mold or mildew present, it is best to reconsider storing cards in that basement until further moisture proofing solutions are implemented.

Pests are another concern to watch out for in basements like ants, spiders, silverfish, cockroaches, and rodents that could damage collections. Use pest control products and regularly inspect for signs of infestation. Best practices include sealing any cracks or gaps around utility lines, vents, foundation, etc where pests may enter. Store collections in sealed plastic containers, even enclosed shelving units can help deter pests. Remove food sources and fix any plumbing or drain leaks that could attract pests.

Proper temperature control is also important for long-term storage. Basements do provide a more temperature stable environment versus above-ground rooms that fluctuate with outdoor extremes. Temperatures still fluctuate seasonally and excessive heat or cold causes material degradation over time. It’s best if the storage area stays between 60-75°F and avoid extremes over 80°F or below freezing. Invest in a thermostat-controlled heating/cooling unit if needed.

Shelving, cabinets, boxes, and containers are necessary to properly organize and display card collections stored in the basement. Commercial-grade plastic storage units provide protection, durability and allow easy access without damaging cards. Avoid using cardboard boxes long-term as they degrade in damp conditions and can transfer odors/stains. Metal shelving requires finishes that don’t corrode and periodic rust inspection. All materials should be non-reactive to avoid chemicals affecting cards.

Proper lighting is important too, especially for accessing/viewing stored cards. Basements often lack natural light so install overhead fluorescent shop lights or LED task lighting along shelves. Minimize very bright bulb types that could still cause fading over decades of lighting exposure. Motion sensor lights help locate specific cards in a larger collection while conserving energy.

An added protection measure is to store especially rare, vintage, or high value cards separately in safety deposit boxes, commercial storage vaults, or with a trusted authenticator/grader service company. This offers added security and controlled environmental protections over home storage. Consider carefully insuring valuable cards as well. A small investment can offers peace of mind and coverage if disaster strikes requiring expensive replacement costs.

Careful attention to these storage condition factors protects investments and preserves aging cardboard for future generations to appreciate. While requiring diligence, the spacious basement allows proper long-term display of extensive collections when equipped right. Consider trial storage periods to verify desired environmental controls are achieved before permanently housing treasures in the unfinished portion of your home below ground level. With some preparation, basements absolutely can serve collectors well as a dedicated sports memorabilia storage space for years to come.

Basements present both opportunities and challenges for storing baseball cards long-term. By thoughtfully addressing issues like moisture, pests, temperature, lighting, and proper containers/shelving, collectors can set up ideal archival conditions for preserving their cherished card collections underground. Regular maintenance and monitoring ensures a consistently stable storage environment protected from the elements. With dedication to optimizing all factors, basements offer a practical at-home solution for housing extensive card accumulations for decades of enjoyment.

UPPER DECK COLLECTOR’s CHOICE BASEBALL CARDS

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Upper Deck Collector’s Choice Baseball Cards: A Detailed Look at the Premium Card Series

Upper Deck is widely considered one of the premier sports card companies in the industry since their inception in 1989. While they are famous for their sports trading cards across various sports, one of their most iconic and premium card sets over the years has been Collector’s Choice baseball cards. Debuting in 1994, Collector’s Choice has consistently provided high-end offerings that capture the attention of serious collectors looking for exquisitely designed cards featuring some of the game’s biggest stars. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key aspects that have made Collector’s Choice such a beloved upper-tier baseball card series.

Premium Design and Materials

Right from the start, Upper Deck separated Collector’s Choice from typical base sets by using superior card stock and materials. The cards featured a glossy, high-quality cardboard stock that gave them an instantly identifiable premium feel in the hands of collectors. Beyond the stock, early Collector’s Choice sets also highlighted various insert patterns on the front of the cards that added additional aesthetic appeal. Whether it was a marble, flag, or other texture, these subtle designs enhanced the look. As the sets progressed, shinier metallic and refractors cards were introduced that took the visual presentation to a whole new level.

Low Print Runs and Authenticated Memorabilia

In order to drive scarcity and demand, Upper Deck produced Collector’s Choice cards in much lower quantities compared to traditional releases. Early sets typically had print runs in the tens of thousands of cards rather than the millions. This instantly gave the cards rare status that hardcore collectors lusted after. Beyond the low runs, Collector’s Choice also gained a reputation for including some of the coolest memorabilia relic cards in the entire sports card market. Upper Deck went to great lengths to secure game-used bat, ball, jersey and other authenticated pieces of several star players to include. These relics captivated fans and increased values exponentially for serial numbered parallel versions.

Iconic Photography and Autographs

With Collector’s Choice, Upper Deck took card photography and on-card autographs to an unprecedented level in the 1990s. Using some of the best sports photographers in the business, they captured amazing action shots and posed portraits of the game’s biggest talents. Some of the vintage Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr. and Barry Bonds photos from the early Collector’s Choice years are considered some of the finest baseball card images ever created. Furthermore, Upper Deck regularly included exclusive autographed parallels that were nearly impossible to acquire from any other brand. Getting an autographed Mike Piazza, Sammy Sosa or Frank Thomas parallel immediately established your card as among the most elite and investment-worthy in the entire industry.

Serial Numbering and Parallels Galore

Part of what has kept Collector’s Choice such an engaging high-end set year after year is the dizzying array of parallels and serial numbered cards released in each edition. Whether it was a gold refractor, black foil, camouflage or any other flashy parallel design, Upper Deck ensured collectors had plenty of rare and limited cards to pursue. Alongside straightforward serial numbering, more complex schemes like Booklets, Masterpieces and 1/1 edition parallels kept the hunt exciting. Part of the allure of Collector’s Choice has always been the prospect of unearthing an ultra-rare parallel that could potentially number in the single or low double digits. For serious collectors, pursuing a complete rainbow set has remained the ultimate long-term quest.

Enduring Legacy and Investment Potential

Thanks to the combination of elite designs, low print runs, amazing content and scarcity driven parallels, Collector’s Choice cards from the 1990s have stood the test of time in terms of retaining and increasing in value. Rookie and star cards from the early years routinely command thousands of dollars for the top parallels in near-mint to mint condition. The sets themselves have achieved legendary status among the collecting community. As an iconic premium brand from the hobby’s golden era, Upper Deck Collector’s Choice is consistently cited as one of the greatest modern baseball card sets ever produced. For investors and collectors alike, cards from this historic series have remained a reliable store of value for decades and will likely continue appreciating well into the future.

In summary, Upper Deck Collector’s Choice has delivered incredible aesthetics, storytelling photography and content through pristine memorabilia components since 1994. By producing cards in limited quantities across numerous scarce parallel designs, they engineered a product that tapped directly into collectors’ desires for exclusivity and scarcity. Through superior materials, creative serial number schemes and by securing an unmatched array of licensed content over the years, Collector’s Choice has cemented its place as the premier high-end baseball card set in the industry. Its legacy and the investment potential contained within its classic vintage issues have cemented Collector’s Choice as one of the most valuable modern card brands for both collectors and investors alike.

1995 DONRUSS STUDIO BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1995 Donruss Studio baseball card set was a unique offering from Donruss that year as it focused entirely on photographer quality portraits of players rather than action shots. The set is highly collectible among baseball card enthusiasts even today for its classic design aesthetics and rare parallels.

Donruss had been producing traditional baseball card sets since 1986 highlighting action images on the front and stats on the back. For 1995, they opted to move in a new artistic direction by using high resolution studio style headshots of each player instead. These portraits were captured with state of the art equipment and lighting techniques to showcase the subjects in vivid detail. While not showing the players in game situations, the photos brought more of a personal feel to each card.

The base set included 525 cards spanning all 30 MLB teams from that season. Rosters included both active players as well as a selection of retired greats and managers/coaches cards to round things out. Some notable things about the player selection – every player who appeared in a game in 1994 was included as well as a handful of top prospects expected to make their debut in 1995. Each card displayed the player’s portrait prominently on the front with their name, team, and position printed under the image.

While focusing more on photography than stats, the backs of the cards did still feature a short career recap and key details for each player. What was really unique though was the inclusion of a random studio portrait from the photo shoot on the reverse. This allowed for two different headshots per player – one posed and one candid, giving collectors extra variety. The card stock quality was also a step up from typical Donruss, using a thicker glossy paper making the portraits truly jump off the surface.

In addition to the base run, Donruss Studio featured several exciting parallel insert sets that added difficulty and more collecting options. Among the most chase worthy were the Studio Diamonds parallels, limited to only 10 copies each. These featured the same front design stamped over with a translucent diamond pattern. Even rarer were 1/1 Gold parallel portraits which came encapsulated individually numbered. Both Diamond and Gold parallels immediately skyrocketed the value of any card they inserted into.

Other inserts sprinkled throughout regular Studio packs included Legendary Lineups, focusing on iconic players from previous eras. Managers was a subset highlighting the leaders of each franchise. And All-Star Rosters collated the top talent at each position that particular season. Serial numbered parallels like Gold Signature, Platinum, and even rarer Rainbow Signature variants added desirable chase cards for enthusiast collectors. Along with the base set completing the roster of players, it truly made for a well rounded photographic collection.

While not an action focused set like typical Donruss issues, 1995 Studio proved hugely popular with fans interested in the headshot styling and rarity aspects. Its clean photography based design has held up very well over time. Prices for key rookies, stars and inserts from the set remain strong to this day on the secondary collector market. It showed that Donruss could successfully branch out from their standard formula at times with creative non-traditional concepts. And while they have since returned somewhat to basics, 1995 Studio remains an cherished set in baseball card history for bringing a high art aspect combined with a fun parallel hunt. Its portrait based approach proved there was merit in showcasing more of the players as people off the field through photography versus stats alone.

The 1995 Donruss Studio baseball card set stands out as a unique limited-run release that took collectors in a fresh artistic direction. Focusing purely on glamour style headshots allowed the512 included subjects personalities to shine through in a personal way. While not showing in-game action, the photographs brought new collecting interest though their vivid quality. Parallel inserts like Diamonds and Gold added heightened scarcity. Over 25 years later, it retains an ardent fanbase for its memorable aesthetics and photography centric approach that differed appreciably from other contemporaneous card issues. Donruss Studio 1995 shows that creative non-traditional concepts can find dedicated long term collectors when done right.

2017 BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2017 Bowman Chrome baseball cards were released in July of 2017 as the flagship chrome parallel product following the standard Bowman baseball base set release. Bowman Chrome cards have become legendary in the baseball card hobby due to their photo negative printed design featuring players photographed on bright reflective chrome stock. This parallel set is highly sought after by collectors due to the amazing visual presentation of the cards as well as the prospect of finding superstar rookies and future Hall of Famers at their earliest career stage.

The 2017 Bowman Chrome set featured prospects and minor leaguers in addition to a handful of major leaguers. Like most modern Bowman Chrome releases, the set had 400 total cards with prospects and minor leaguers providing the bulk of the checklist. Rookie cards and first Bowman cards of future superstars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Shohei Ohtani were the biggest chase cards from the set. While Acuña and Soto wouldn’t make their MLB debuts until 2018, collectors recognized their immense talent at a young age based on their minor league stats and scouting reports. Ohtani had already established himself as a two-way star in Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan prior to joining MLB in 2018.

Outside of the top prospects, the 2017 Bowman Chrome set also included plenty of mid-tier prospects that have since gone on to become regular major leaguers such as Walker Buehler, Austin Meadows, Alex Reyes, and Tyler O’Neill. Dozens of others from the set roster on MLB teams as role players or depth pieces as well. While they may not reach superstardom, cards of these type of solid big leaguers still hold value in the decades to come. The unique photo negative design on chrome also gives these lesser known players’ cards a premium look that collectors gravitate towards for PC (personal collection) building.

In terms of pricing, the most expensive cards from the 2017 Bowman Chrome set in Gem Mint condition are predictably the big three rookie stars. PSA 10 grades of Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Shohei Ohtani routinely fetch thousands of dollars each. Acuña’s prized rookie card as the face of one of MLB’s premier franchises in Atlanta commands the highest prices, often selling for $3,000-$5,000 in pristine condition. Meanwhile, Soto and Ohtani can bring $1,000-$3,000 by comparison. It’s quite remarkable to think cards from players’ first professional seasons hold value that exceeds what entire hobby boxes originally retailed for back in 2017.

Moving down the prospect rankings, other elite talents like Walker Buehler and Alex Reyes in a PSA 10 can range between $100-$500. While Buehler and Reyes have dealt with injuries throughout their careers that prevented them reaching full potential, they remain quality MLB starters with playing time locked up for playoff contenders. For mid-tier prospects turned regular big leaguers, PSA 10s fetch $50-200 depending on the player. This includes names such as Austin Meadows, Tyler O’Neill, Willie Calhoun and others that remain in lineups but lack true star upside. Overall, PSA 10 parallels of any significant MLB contributor from the ’17 Bowman Chrome set carries value for PC collecting decades from now.

In terms of raw, ungraded cards,Acuña Jr., Soto and Ohtani rookies still demand $50-$200 each even in flawed condition due to explosive player growth and future Hall of Fame trajectories. Lesser stars complete with autographs might grab $20-50 while mid-tier rookie base cards trade hands for $5-20. Special parallels like refractors, negative refractors, Orange Refractors and 1/1 Printing Plates hold premiums over the base rookie cards. These scarce parallel versions could multiply the PSA 10 prices referenced before for the biggest stars. Of course, condition and centering heavily influence the final price – with poor examples selling at bulk rates.

It’s also worth noting that while individual cards from 2017 Bowman Chrome have increased tremendously in value from cover price, the original wax boxes and hobby boxes have increased substantially as well. Sealed wax boxes that once sold for as little as $80-$100 five years ago now regularly attract bids over $1,000 on auction sites. Even opened hobby boxes with hits removed can sell for $500-$800 due to strong overall prospect popularity and lack of remaining supply on the secondary market. Clearly, 2017 Bowman Chrome has proven to be one of the standout releases of the decade yielding multiple true superstars – making it a must own set for any long term baseball card investor.

The 2017 Bowman Chrome baseball card set enjoyed immense success and showcased future hall of fame talents at the earliest juncture of their careers. Cards of lead prospects Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani have appreciated enormously to become prohibitively expensive today. Meanwhile, other graduated prospects who became solid MLB contributors still hold value as a result of the premium Bowman Chrome design on prospects. Both sealed and single card pricing indicates 2017 Bowman Chrome has become one of the premier modern release to accumulate for long term holdings. While volatile, the baseball card market continues to reward set that yield superstars – making this a prime candidate for future appreciation.

1887 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1887 N172 Old Judge tobacco card set, issued by the American Tobacco Company, is widely considered the very first major set of baseball cards produced. Containing seven different cards featuring individual baseball players, the 1887 N172 set represented the start of a new collecting phenomenon that would grow into an international multi-billion dollar industry over the ensuing decades.

Each card in the 1887 set measured approximately 2 1/4 inches by 2 3/4 inches and was printed lithographically in black and grey scale on thin cardboard stock. The front of each card featured an image of an individual baseball player in their uniform along with their name and team. On the back was printed colorful advertising copy and imagery promoting Old Judge tobacco. The seven players included in the inaugural 1887 set were Jim O’Rourke, Tim Keefe, John Clarkson, Ned Williamson, Charley Jones, Dan Brouthers and Deacon White.

While some individual baseball player cards had been issued prior to 1887 in newspaper and magazine promotions, the Old Judge set was unique in that it marked the first time a major company mass produced sets of multiple unique cards solely as a promotional vehicle for a product. As such, the 1887 N172 set is widely credited with inventing the modern format for trading cards, collectors, and the broader sports card industry that would follow.

Beyond introducing the concept of sets and collecting, the 1887 cards were also significant because they preserved images and statistical information about some of baseball’s earliest stars from the formative years of professional leagues in the 1880s. Tim Keefe was one of the first truly dominant pitchers, leading the National League in wins five times. Dan Brouthers was a slugging first baseman who still ranks among the all-time leaders in career home runs more than a century after his retirement. Charley Jones and Jim O’Rourke were stalwarts for championship clubs in the American Association. By featuring these pioneering players very early in the collection of baseball statistics, the 1887 cards helped ensure some historical documentation of the game’s 19th century period survived as interest in the sport grew exponentially in later decades.

From a condition perspective, the fragility of the thin cardboard stock used for the 1887 cards means very few survived in high grades over 135 years. It’s estimated fewer than 50 examples still exist in collectible condition today. In the most pristine state with sharp images and no creasing, folding or surface wear, a 1887 N172 Old Judge in what would be considered mint condition would be worth millions of dollars. Even well-worn examples that still retain identifiable images continue to attract five and six figure prices from enthusiastic collectors.

Despite their rarity and value, the enduring appeal of the 1887 cards is as an important historical artifact of the nascent relationship between baseball, advertising and collecting during a key period of the game’s development. By featuring stars from the formative years of professional leagues, the set helped preserve some of the earliest photographic images and statistics from baseball’s pioneer era. Most significantly, by introducing the novel concept of trading cards issued as a product promotion, the N172 set established a model that would be endlessly copied and expanded upon in the ensuing decades as baseball rose to become America’s national pastime.

In the 130+ years since that first seminal 1887 release, the sports card collecting landscape has grown into a multi-billion dollar international industry. From the elaborate premium sets created by Upper Deck and Topps in modern times to the vintage cardboard of stars from the past, the business is a diverse collecting universe sustained by nostalgia and fueled by new discoveries and record-setting sales. Yet through it all, the humble pioneer creation of the 1887 Old Judge set remains revered as the true starting point—a seminal release that introduced two distinctly American pastimes: baseball on the field and the baseball card hobby that would follow it. That auspicious beginning in a single, 7-card series over a century ago grew to represent so much more. From a historical perspective, the N172 set serves as an iconic reminder of the inauspicious roots from which today’s sports memorabilia industry grew to become a globally significant merchandise sector of its own.

POPULAR BASEBALL CARDS RIGHT NOW

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The baseball card collecting hobby has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past few years. Thanks to increased scarcity and high prices of vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s, modern rookie cards and prospect autographs have become highly sought after. Here are some of the biggest baseball cards that collectors are chasing in today’s market:

Soto Rookie Auto RC – Juan Soto had one of the best rookie seasons in 2018 history, finishing second in NL ROY voting. His 2018 Topps Chrome Update Red Refractor Auto RC /99 is among the most valuable modern rookie cards, regularly fetching $1,000-2,000 raw on the secondary market. Soto mania shows no signs of slowing down and this is considered his flagship rookie card. As one of the faces of baseball, Soto’s star power alone makes it a blue chip investment long term.

Acuña Rookie Auto RC – Similarly, Ronald Acuña Jr. burst onto the scene in 2018 and established himself as a superstar. His Topps Chrome Update Red Refractor Auto RC /99 is right up there with Soto’s as one of the must-have modern RCs. Prices have been steady around $1,000-1,500 but there’s belief these will appreciate significantly considering Acuña’s age (23) and skill set. Like Soto, he energized an entire franchise and fanbase and could eventually reach Trout/Harper status.

Vlad Jr. Rookie Cards – Even though he struggled in his 2019 MLB debut, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is considered a generational talent and top prospect. His flagship 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /250 and 2018 Bowman Platinum Auto RC /299 command massive sums – the latter recently selling for nearly $5,000. There’s confidence Vlad Jr. will put it together and become the superstar he’s projected as. His rookies have held value well and interest remains high.

Wander Franco RCs – Still just 19, Wander Franco is thought by many to be the best pure hitting prospect of the last few decades. He absolutely raked in 2019 across multiple minor league levels. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /499 and 2019 Bowman Chrome Yellow Auto RC /150 are white hot on the market, often fetching over $1,000 apiece thanks to sky-high long term potential. Franco mania is growing and these cards are superb speculative long term holds.

Ohtani Rookie Cards – Shohei Ohtani’s stateside debut with the Angels in 2018 was nothing short of electrifying. The two-way star showcased awe-inspiring pitching and hitting talents. His 2018 Topps Series 1 RC and Topps Series 2 RC remain two of the biggest modern release cards, still selling in the $150-$300 range on average. Should Ohtani stay healthy and live up to immense hype, these have massive upside as a true unique talent.

Alvarez Rookie Cards – Though limited MLB time in 2019, Yordan Alvarez immediately showcased elite power for the Astros. The Cuban masher wowed in his brief debut and remains a fixture in Houston’s lineup. His flagship rookie, the 2019 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /99, commands top dollar around $600-800 raw based on All-Star potential. He remains one of the game’s most dangerous young hitters and his cards could appreciate significantly.

Acuna Patch Cards – While his flagship rookie cards lead the way, Acuña collectors also drool over his incredible low-numbered patch autographs. Highlights include 2018 Topps Triple Threads Patch Autograph /10, 2019 Stadium Club Triple Patch Auto /5, and 2018 Topps Archives Photo Patch Auto /25. These ultra-rare game used memorabilia cards typically sell in the $3,000-$5,000+ range depending on specific serial number. For Acuña superfans, they are true holy grails.

Tatis Jr. RCs – Fernando Tatis Jr. had a breakout 2019 that established him as a true superstar. His rookie cards immediately skyrocketed, including the flagship 2018 Topps Chrome Prospect Auto RC /50 and 2019 Bowman Chrome Yellow Auto RC /25. With his dynamic all-around game at just 21, these are long term blue chip holds. Condition sensitive Topps Chrome RCs especially have been bringing $600-$1,000 consistently.

Bichette RCs – In 2019, Bo Bichette proved himself as the complete package with the Blue Jays. His MLB debut was nothing short of dazzling. Top regarded RCs include the flagship 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /299 and 2018 Bowman Platinum Auto RC /299. Still commanding $300-$500 raw thanks to All-Star potential realization. He’s a core piece of Toronto’s young core.

Robert RCs – Luis Robert dazzled in the minors in 2019 and is finally debuting with the White Sox this season. His star power alone makes 2018 Bowman Chrome Auto RC /499 and 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /150 two of the hottest cards out there, with prices often north of $500 each as collectors await his arrival. With 5-tool talents, these are no doubt long term cornerstones for Sox fan collections.

Gorman Chrome Autos – Nolan Gorman has risen to the top of the Cardinals farm system with prodigious power. His autographed rookie cards like the 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC /99 and 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto RC /499 demand big money, often fetching $300-$500 based on the belief he will be a mainstay in St. Louis for years. With generational raw power and hype around his development, these are prime speculative investments.

So in summary – flagship rookie autos of today’s young superstars like Acuña, Soto, Vlad Jr., Tatis Jr. and more continue to drive the modern market. Meanwhile low-numbered patches, prospects with sky-high hype like Franco and Robert, plus emerging young stars keep collector interest abundant. It’s an exciting time for those chasing the next generation of baseball legends.

BUY TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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Topps is arguably the most iconic and recognizable brand in the baseball card industry. Since launching their first set of baseball cards in 1951, Topps has produced cards for over 70 years and holds the exclusive license from Major League Baseball. As a result, Topps baseball cards remain some of the most popular and sought-after collectibles for both casual collectors and serious investors.

While buying Topps baseball cards can be a fun hobby, it’s also an investment that requires research and strategy. With thousands of sets released over many decades, deciding which cards to purchase involves understanding the factors that influence a card’s value such as player performance, career milestones, rookie cards, serial numbers, autographs, and more. By educating yourself on these dynamics, collectors can make smarter purchases that stand to appreciate over time.

One of the first considerations in buying Topps baseball cards is determining your budget and collecting goals. Cards can range widely in price from common base cards available for under $1 to ultra-rare, game-used relics selling at auction for tens of thousands. Having a budget in mind beforehand prevents overspending and helps focus on affordable cards that fit your interests. Are you looking for recent stars, vintage Hall of Famers, or a mix of both? Knowing what eras and players appeal most helps guide purchasing decisions.

Condition is also extremely important, as even minor flaws can significantly impact a card’s worth. When possible, buy from reputable sellers who clearly describe and showcase a card’s condition through high-quality photos. Terms like “near mint,” “excellent,” and “poor” are subjective, so ask questions to assess wear on corners, edges, and surfaces. Cards still in their original packaging like wax packs are generally in the best shape, while loose singles require closer inspection. Authenticating cards is also crucial to avoid potentially fraudulent copies.

Rookie cards are among the most desirable types of Topps baseball cards to acquire due to capturing a player at the beginning of their career. Examples include Mickey Mantle’s 1952 rookie, Mike Trout’s 2009 debut, and Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1989 first Bowman card. These top rookies often command five-figure or higher prices. More affordable options include stars’ earlier minor league cards before reaching the majors or rookie cards of solid major leaguers rather than true superstars.

Lower-numbered parallel and serially-numbered inserts from modern sets can offer higher upside. Inserts featuring autographs, memorabilia, or serial numbers under 100 are especially scarce. But these speculative cards require diligent research into whether interest and prices truly justify their premium cost over standard base cards. Stick to star players rather than risks on unproven prospects. Also factor in costs of authentication, grading, and storage which can eat into profits.

Vintage cards from the 1950s-1970s issued before the modern era of mass production are highly coveted by collectors. These early Topps issues capture the earliest years and designs in the company’s history. Finding high-quality specimens from the pre-1980s in collectible condition is challenging without deep pockets. A more prudent approach focuses on affordable commons that represent iconic players, sets, and designs without breaking the bank. Condition remains paramount, as even minor flaws drastically cut into value for these fragile vintage cards.

When just starting a collection, consider building around complete base sets from targeted years rather than chasing individual stars. This strategy allows acquiring cards more cost-effectively through common players while still obtaining higher-priced names. Sites like eBay enable finding reasonably priced lots to fill out sets. Once complete, these sets can then be considered for potential long-term appreciation or broken apart to focus on favorite players. Always check for special parallel or short-printed “chase” cards that make sets more collectible.

In addition to buying directly from individual collectors online or at card shows, reputable card shops provide a reliable resource, especially for vintage rarities. Established brick-and-mortar stores and online dealers like Blowout Cards, Steel City Collectibles, and DA Card World have earned trust through decades in the hobby. Paying a slight premium for expertly graded vintage through Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) or Beckett adds security versus raw specimens. Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions also authentically guarantee items.

Proper storage helps Topps baseball cards maintain condition over decades. Plastic sleeves, toploaders, and magnetic or screw-down holders protect surfaces. Storing in albums preserves organization but can damage edges. For valuable singles, consider a bank safety deposit box. Climate-controlled storage units ensure temperature and humidity don’t cause paper to warp or fade over many years. Digital scans provide documentation against loss or damage to original items.

In summary, Topps baseball cards offer a fun and potentially lucrative investment for collectors. With diligent research focused on desirable players, sets, and condition—coupled with prudent budgeting and storage practices—hobbyists can build collections poised to appreciate significantly with time. Whether simply enjoying the nostalgia of America’s pastime or pursuing cards as a long-term store of value, Topps remains the premier brand in the industry after seven decades of document Major League Baseball history.

2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball season will see the release of numerous baseball card sets from the major card companies like Topps, Panini, and Leaf. With a new year comes new designs, rookie cards, and parallels to collect. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most notable releases collectors can expect to see hit store shelves and online retailers in the coming months.

Topps Series 1 is usually the first major release of the year, dropping in late January or early February. The 2023 edition will feature rookie cards of the top prospects called up in 2022 like Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodriguez. Parallels like Gold, Silver, and Rainbow Foil are always fan favorites to chase. Topps Update then follows in late summer/early fall with any midseason call-ups and additional rookie cards. Both sets will feature the standard base cards along with various parallels and short prints to keep collectors hunting.

Panini Prizm is one of the hottest modern brands and their 2023 release is highly anticipated. Prizm has become known for its flashy refractors and color parallels. The rookie class will be the main focus, but stars like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto can also be found. Panini usually does two waves of Prizm with the second release adding more parallels and 1/1 rarities. Expect Prizm to be one of the most valuable modern sets on the secondary market next year.

After taking 2021 off, Leaf is returning to the baseball card scene in 2023. Their flagship set is called Leaf Metal and features a clean design with sharp photography on a textured cardstock. Metal will surely have one of the best presentations of any release. Rated Rookie and Autograph parallels are sure to make some noise. Leaf is also planning a high-end release called Leaf Trinity that will push the limits with innovative parallels and 1/1 patches and autographs.

Donruss is a classic brand that is owned by Panini. Their 2023 offering will be Donruss Optic which focuses on refractors, color bursts, and parallels like the popular Rainbow Foil. Optic is usually a mid-priced modern set that offers some of the flashier cards at a more affordable price-point compared to higher-end brands. Veterans, rookies, and parallels galore can be found in Optic packs and boxes.

Bowman is the premier brand for baseball prospects and their 2023 release will be one to watch. As always, Bowman will feature the first cards of that year’s draft class along with international signings. Parallels, autographs, and 1/1 cards of prospects like Druw Jones will make Bowman a hotly anticipated release. Keep an eye out for short prints, prospects with flashy uniforms/poses, and autographs of top draft picks that could become very valuable if those players pan out in the pros.

Allen & Ginter is a fun, retro-style set that is a hobby staple each summer. A&G features unique designs, various parallels like Gold/Silver Signatures, and oddball mini cards. The 2023 edition will likely have a retro design with players photographed in old-timey uniforms. A&G is a low-risk set to collect for the fun factor but short prints and stars could become quite valuable long-term.

Stadium Club and Triple Threads from Topps are high-end releases that photography and patch/auto parallel lovers look forward to each year. Stadium Club will have its sharp images while Triple Threads focuses on intricate patch cards and serial-numbered autographs. These sets push the limits of on-card relics and autographs with some true 1/1 masterpieces that can sell for thousands. For those wanting the best cards money can buy, Stadium Club and Triple Threads will surely deliver.

While the above brands will likely be the major releases, keep an eye out for smaller sets too. Heritage from Topps is a retro-styled set perfect for vintage design fans. GQ is a flashy brand from Panini focused on color and parallels. Archives from Topps revisits past designs. Plus, brands like Leaf, Panini, and Topps usually have various insert sets throughout the year focusing on specific players or themes.

2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for baseball cards between the star rookies, veteran players, flashy parallels, and innovative designs. With the continued growth of the hobby, next season’s releases are poised to be some of the most anticipated in recent memory. Savvy collectors will want to mark their calendars for the key dates and be ready to chase their favorite players across the various sets hitting stores in the new year.