COOLEST BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been around for over 150 years and have evolved significantly since their inception in the late 1860s. While many modern cards feature current players, some of the most coveted and valuable cards were produced decades ago. These vintage cards from the early days of the hobby are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and association with legendary players from baseball’s golden era.

Some of the coolest and most desirable baseball cards ever made were produced in the late 19th century during the infancy of the sport. One of the earliest known cards is the 1868/1876 N172 Old Judge tobacco card, featuring an illustration of a baseball player in a crouching batting stance. Only five examples are known to exist today, making this among the rarest and most valuable cards on the market. Another extremely early and significant card is the 1887/1889 Allen & Ginter World Wide Base Ball Players card set. Printed on thin cardboard, these 54 cards provided early profiles of major leaguers during baseball’s formative years. Their antiquity and association with the origins of professional baseball make them highly coveted.

The T206 tobacco card set released between 1909-1911 is widely considered the most iconic in the hobby. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, these large, colorful cards featured photographs of baseball stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson and Honus Wagner. The rarity of certain players made these instant collector favorites. Perhaps most notably, the ultra-rare 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner card, of which it’s believed only 50-200 were printed, has sold for over $3 million due to Wagner’s request that his card be pulled. Other exceptionally rare and valuable pre-WWI tobacco cards worth over $100,000 include the 1909 E95 Allen & Ginter Muggsy McGraw and 1910 E90 Sweet Caporal Ty Cobb.

The Goudey Gum Company released several classic sets in the 1930s that are still fan favorites today. Highlights include the 1933 Goudey Baseball Card set, which was innovative for using photographs on its 133 cards, and the 1938 Goudey Baseball Card set, known for its vibrant color images. Both sets are highly collectible, with the 1933 Lou Gehrig and 1938 Joe DiMaggio rookies particularly sought after. Other standout 1930s issues include 1939 Play Ball cards, featuring new stars like Bob Feller and Ted Williams in their rookie seasons.

The post-WWII era saw the golden age of baseball cards, as production ramped up significantly. The most iconic and valuable of these are the 1952 Topps cards. Featuring color photos and player stats on the back, the iconic design set the standard that Topps has followed ever since. Top rookies like Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle and Whitey Ford make 1952 Topps among the most collected vintage sets. Bowman also had a strong run, with the highly coveted 1954 Bowman Color baseball set and its vibrant photos standing out.

The late 1950s through the 1960s produced many beloved designs that remain fan favorites. Highlights include the vibrant 1959 Topps cards, the first to use team logo designs on the fronts. The 1960 Topps set introduced the modern card size and team logo layout still used today. Iconic rookie cards from this era include the 1956 Topps Sandy Koufax and 1957 Topps Roberto Clemente. The 1967 Topps set is also highly collectible for its innovative design changes and inclusion of the “Captains” leader card subset.

While modern production has exploded card values for most post-1970s issues, certain late 20th century designs stand out. The 1975 Topps set introduced the first “photo variation” error cards, like the scarce Nolan Ryan “bat on shoulder” photo, increasing interest. Iconic rookie cards from the 1970s like the 1975 Cal Ripken Jr. and 1979 Don Mattingly are still sought after today. The 1987 Topps Traded set also gained notoriety for error cards like the “refractor” Rod Carew that previewed the insert card trend of the ’90s and 2000s.

For dedicated collectors, no cards compare to the true vintage greats from baseball’s early decades. Their impeccable condition, historical significance and association with legendary players make coveted pre-WWI and 1930s-1950s issues the holy grails of the hobby. While modern production has increased availability, rarities from the sport’s formative years will likely always be the most prized possessions in any collection. Whether admired for their beauty, history or high dollar value, these earliest cardboard creations remain some of the coolest and most collectible baseball cards ever made.

1993 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1993 Donruss baseball card set was the 18th season of Donruss baseball cards and one of the most popular releases of the early 1990s. Featuring players from that MLB season, the set highlighted several star rookies and future Hall of Famers in their primes. With 493 total cards across various subsets and inserts, 1993 Donruss boasted many fan favorites and remains a desirable vintage set for collectors decades later.

Released in March 1993, the base set numbered a then-standard 378 cards. Notable rookies included catcher Javy López, outfielder Darren Daulton, and pitchers Roger Clemens, John Burkett, and Grant Roberts. Future Hall of Famers included Barry Bonds, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, Ryne Sandberg, and Roberto Alomar in the prime of their careers. The checklist also featured All-Stars like Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr., David Justice, and Mike Piazza.

Beyond the base cards, several memorable insert sets added to the excitement and gave additional chase cards for collectors. The prestigious ’93 Donruss Masters of the Game subset included 12 cards spotlighting legends Ted Williams, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and others late in their careers or already in Cooperstown. The ’93 Masterpieces featured stunning artwork on five extra sharp cards highlighting Kirby Puckett, Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, Cal Ripken Jr., and Wade Boggs.

Additional insert sets provided more opportunities for collectors. The 24-card Hit Ink subset reprinted classic photos in a painted graphic style. Laser focused on 15 All-Stars and Rookies of Note showcased 15 top prospects. Mini Leaderboards featured stats and accomplishments of the game’s top performers on 25 cards. A World Series Heroes 11-card set looked back on unforgettable Fall Classic moments. And seven special Diamond Anniversary issues spotlighted memorable seasons from decades past.

Unique among regular issues, the Diamond Anniversary cards provided a visual throwback to an earlier time period in card design from the mid-1980s. Featuring Robin Yount, Steve Carlton, Ryne Sandberg, Mike Schmidt, Nolan Ryan and others, the cards highlighted specific accomplishments overlaid on a diamond pattern. At 1 per wax pack on average, these inserts became highly desired by collectors chasing the full rainbow parallel subset.

Beyond the base set and inserts, ’93 Donruss also boasted higher-end parallels to entice collectors. The 24-card Diamond King subset offered on-card autographs of superstars. Silver Signature parallels numbered to 25 copies provided low-printing autographs. And Gold Signature parallels took it further by containing encased game-used memorabilia swatches numbered to just 5 copies each. Other parallels included various color and parallel variations of the masterpieces and mini leaderboards subsets, adding further complexity.

When it came to production, the 1993 Donruss offering was printed by Fleer and Leaf and was widely distributed with reliable quality control. Wax packs retailed for about $1 each and contained approximately 10-12 cards including the base cards and prevalent inserts. Factory sets also became available and helped collectors efficiently chase the complete set checklist. Meanwhile, the prevalence of inserts like leaders provided secondary objectives beyond simply trying to finish the base roster. This helped Donruss appeal to both casual fans and dedicated collectors.

In the ensuing decades, the 1993 Donruss set has maintained a strong legacy and following. Its roster features many all-time great players and memorable rookie debuts. Insert cards like Masters and Masterpieces became highly regarded classics. And the parallel options for chasers provide layers of enduring complexity that keep the set fascinating. Even at nearly 30 years later, unopened ’93 Donruss packs and boxes can still generate plenty of nostalgic interest and collector demand. As one of the most widely distributed sets of the early 1990s, it serves as a snapshot of an era and starting point for many longtime collectors.

The 493-card 1993 Donruss baseball release stands out as one of the most popular and enduring vintage sets from the early 1990s trading card boom. With a star-studded reliable base roster backed by coveted inserts and parallel options, it satisfied both casual and dedicated collectors upon its original release. Nearly three decades later, its nostalgic appeal and solid player selection continue to make it a desirable target for baseball card enthusiasts exploring the vintage market. The 1993 Donruss set remains a pivotal release that helped define the early 90s Donruss hobby.

BEST 1969 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1969 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues in the entire history of the hobby. With 714 total cards issued, the ’69 Topps set featured many of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers during one of the most exciting eras in Major League Baseball. While not quite as renowned as some other vintage Topps sets from the 1950s and 1960s, the 1969 cards still hold significant nostalgia and collecting appeal decades later. Here are some of the standout cards and players from this highly regarded vintage release.

One of the most coveted and expensive 1969 Topps cards is the #1 Mickey Mantle. Widely considered one of the true “holy grails” for any vintage baseball card collection, the Mantle is iconic for featuring one of the game’s undisputed legends in the prime of his career with the New York Yankees. While production numbers for individual cards back then were not tracked precisely, experts believe fewer than 10 gem mint Mantle #1s still exist today in a pristine state. Graded examples have sold for over $100,000 when in top condition with strong centering and sharp corners.

Another Yankee superstar and surefire Hall of Famer featured prominently in the 1969 set is #500 Willie Mays of the San Francisco Giants. Often ranked as one of the 10 best players in MLB history, the Say Hey Kid was still performing at an elite level for the Giants in his late 30s during this period. High-grade Mays rookies from previous years command massive sums, but his ’69 Topps issue also garners big interest due to his iconic status in the game. Top-condition examples can reach $5,000-$10,000.

Two of the greatest pitchers in baseball history who both won over 300 career games are also major highlights from the 1969 Topps set. #97 Tom Seaver’s iconic card wearing his New York Mets jersey is a standout, as the franchise’s all-time leader was just entering his prime years and helped lead the Amazins’ to a World Series title in 1969. High-grade Seaver rookies from 1967 are extremely rare and valuable, but even his third-year card in the ’69 set retains excellent collector demand. Meanwhile, #550 Bob Gibson’s intimidating stare and delivery made him a fan favorite as the ace of the St. Louis Cardinals. He won the NL MVP and a World Series that year to cement his legacy. Both the Seaver and Gibson are always in high demand.

In addition to those superstar veterans, the 1969 Topps issue also featured several of the game’s brightest young talents who were establishing themselves as future Hall of Famers. One of the most significant is #1 Rod Carew’s rookie card wearing a Minnesota Twins uniform. Already a batting champion as a 23-year-old, Carew went on to win 7 batting titles and hit over .300 for 19 straight seasons en route to Cooperstown. High-grade examples of his rookie are valued north of $10,000 today. Another rookie standout is #550 Reggie Jackson as a member of the Kansas City/Oakland A’s. Though he hadn’t yet joined the Yankees for his legendary “Mr. October” performances, Jackson’s prodigious power was already evident in 1969. Near-mint Jackson rookies can reach $5,000-$8,000.

The 1969 Topps set also included several other future Hall of Famers in the primes of their careers like #340 Johnny Bench, #97 Hank Aaron, #1 Joe Morgan, #1 Lou Brock, #1 Tony Perez, #97 Juan Marichal, #97 Gaylord Perry and #1 Fergie Jenkins among many others. Even stars who didn’t achieve full Hall of Fame status remain popular like #1 Denny McLain, #97 Ron Santo, #97 Dick Allen and #97 Billy Williams representing the Chicago Cubs’ glory years. In total, the set featured over 50 players that were or would become MLB all-stars at some point in their careers.

In addition to star power, the 1969 Topps design itself has become iconic over the decades. Featuring a clean white border surrounding each colorful player photo with team logos prominently across the top, the simple yet classy aesthetic has stood the test of time. The cards also included the players’ stats and career highlights on the back. When combined with the era it captures, the 1969 Topps set remains a standout among vintage baseball card collectors to this day. While full unopened wax packs are extremely rare and valuable, individual high-grade examples of the stars from this release continue to attract strong interest from investors and enthusiasts alike. The 1969 Topps cards truly captured lightning in a bottle by commemorating arguably the most talented array of players in MLB history during one of its most exciting periods.

The 1969 Topps baseball card set deserves its place among the most coveted and iconic issues in the entire hobby. Featuring legendary names like Mantle, Mays, Seaver, Gibson, Carew, Jackson and dozens of other all-time greats, the cards captured the peak of many legendary careers at a time when the sport was exploding in popularity. Even after decades of increased production and new players entering the scene, the stars of the 1969 set still hold tremendous nostalgia and significance. Their cards remain highly sought after as valuable pieces of both sports and pop culture history. Whether being collected and admired by casual fans or intensely graded and traded by investors, the 1969 Topps baseballs cards remain a true standard that will always be remembered as one of the hobby’s finest moments captured on cardboard.

MIKE TROUT ALL STAR BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Mike Trout has established himself as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball over the past decade. While still very early in his career, Trout has already accumulated a lengthy resume packed with accolades that includes three MVP awards, seven All-Star selections, and an Rookie of the Year honor. Unsurprisingly, Trout’s dominance on the field has translated to immense popularity in the sports collecting world, especially when it comes to his baseball cards.

As one of the faces of MLB, Trout’s rookie cards in particular have drawn massive interest from investors and enthusiasts alike. His 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Superfractor autograph card PSA 10 is arguably the most coveted modern baseball card in existence, with unconfirmed reports of examples selling for well over $400,000. Even base rookie cards in high grades still command prices upwards of $10,000. It’s easy to see why these early cards hold such value, as they capture Trout at the very beginning of his storied career and before he became a household name.

While his rookie cards understandably get most of the attention, Trout’s collection of prestigious on-card autographed All-Star cards are also highly sought after items within the hobby. Starting with his 2012 Bowman Sterling All-Star Collection autograph, each of the subsequent years that Trout participated in the Midsummer Classic have been documented with intricate autograph cards from premium trading card companies. These include releases like Topps, Bowman, Panini NFL, and more. What makes the autograph All-Star cards especially attractive is that they provide a visual verification of Trout’s accomplishments for each season in an aesthetically-pleasing on-card autograph format.

Trout’s 2012 Bowman Sterling All-Star Collection autograph has maintained strong collector demand due to it being his first official All-Star acknowledgment card. Examples regularly sell in the $300-$400 range for PSA 10 examples. His 2013 Topps All-Star Rookies autograph from that season’s game at Citi Field in New York holds similar value. It’s Trout’s 2014 Topps All-Star Game autograph card (#ASG-MT) that has emerged as the most highly-coveted of his signed All-Star cards. With its stunning rainbow foil design, parallel versions have climbed to the $1000+ price point for top grades. Trout’s autographed performance during the 2014 Midsummer Classic was also one of the best of his storied All-Star career.

Other notable signed All-Star cards in Trout’s collection include his 2015 Topps All-Star Game gold foil parallel autograph (/50), 2015 Topps Chrome All-Star Game Refractors autograph, and 2016 Topps Allen & Ginter World’s Best autograph (/99). As Trout’s star continued rising with more MVP awards during this span, the prices for these signed parallels grew substantially compared to his early All-Star cards. One can only speculate how high the prices may climb for Trout’s certified autographed cards from his record-setting 2016 All-Star effort in San Diego, where he took home MVP honors after an incredible 8-RBI performance.

Signed rookie cards and early career All-Star autographs aside, Trout’s flagship annual issue base cards have also developed into must-owns for any serious collector. His staggering consistency makes even his common base cards highly relevant several years after their initial release. Trout routinely sells out of huge production runs, with parallels and autographed variations becoming exceedingly rare and costly over time. For example, Trout’s 2014 Topps Update base card in a PSA 10 now sells in the $80-100 range according to recent eBay sales, showing unusual staying power for a non-hit from just a few years prior.

Mike Trout’s reign over the baseball card collecting world is a byproduct of his incredible on-field accomplishments thus far as one of the leaders of MLB’s new generation. With many more prime years still ahead, Trout’s cards should maintain their stratospheric values and perhaps climb even higher as he potentially establishes himself as the best player of all-time. Not only does Trout deliver year after year with jaw-dropping statistics worthy of MVP consideration, but he also provides fans with countless electrifying playoff and All-Star moments that continue immortalizing his legacy one spectacular card at a time. As long as Trout keeps raising the bar as a ballplayer, his diverse array of autographed rookie cards, flagship issues, and prestigious signed All-Star selections will remain anchoring points for any collection.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE 1985

Leave a reply

The 1985 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the 1980s. It was the peak era for the hobby before it declined in the early 1990s. As a result, many of the rookies and stars from 1985 have maintained strong demand and prices over the past few decades.

Several factors contribute to the set’s popularity and value. It features future Hall of Famers like Dwight Gooden, Roberto Alomar, Barry Larkin, and Ozzie Smith. It also includes rookie cards for Gooden, Bret Saberhagen, Mark McGwire, and Wally Joyner that are highly sought after by collectors. The ’85 Topps set captured some of the biggest names and future stars from that MLB season.

Another key aspect is the design and photography quality of the 1985 Topps issue. The simple yet iconic design lent itself well to mass production but still allowed the players andteams to stand out in an attractive way. The vibrant colors and large centered headshots made the cards very memorable and remain fan favorites among collectors today. The photography has held up remarkably well compared to other 1980s designs.

Perhaps most importantly for its long-term value, the 1985 Topps set was one of the most widely produced issues during the peak popularity of the baseball card hobby in the 1980s. This helped disseminate the cards into a huge collector base that has remained invested over the past 35+ years. The sheer numbers printed also impacted preservation, so higher grade copies of stars and key rookies can still be found today compared to smaller print run sets. This accessibility and availability is a big factor in the set’s enduring popularity.

When it comes to individual card values, the top prize of the 1985 Topps set is unquestionably the flagship rookie card of Hall of Famer Dwight Gooden. In pristine mint condition, his rookie now sells for well over $10,000 and approaches the $20,000 mark for true gem copies. The hype around Gooden as one of the greatest pitching prospects ever fueled huge demand for his rookie that has lasted to this day.

Other high-dollar cards from the ‘85 Topps set include the rookies of Bret Saberhagen, Mark McGwire, and Wally Joyner. All 3 players went on to have impressive MLB careers and their rookie cards typically sell in the $500-$1000 range depending on condition. McGwire’s marketability as one of the game’s biggest sluggers especially drives interest in his rookie. Roberto Alomar’s debut card also fetches $500+ due to his Hall of Fame career and leadership as one of baseball’s best second basemen.

Beyond rookies, the most valuable regular issue cards in the set revolve around future Hall of Famers and superstar players. Ozzie Smith’s card regularly sells for $100-200 given his iconic defensive wizardry at shortstop. A PSA 10 Gem Mint copy recently sold for over $400. Barry Larkin, another future Hall of Fame shortstop, has sustained strong demand as well with his ’85 Topps card reaching $100-150 in high grades.

The most iconic regular issue card is undoubtedly Dwight Gooden’s main issue, which consistently sells for $75-150 depending on condition. His dominant rookie season and hype as possibly the best young pitcher ever pushed his regular card to great popularity and enduring value. Other star regulars like Dave Parker, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy, and Jack Morris round out the $50-100 market.

In terms of team cards and oddball inserts, the highlight is definitely the 1985 Topps Traded set, which features updated player photos, stats and new teams for players traded after the original Topps print run. A complete factory set recently sold for over $2,000 given its scarcity and condition sensitivity. High-dollar individual cards include Gooden ($150-300), Murray ($100-200), and Kirby Puckett’s debut traded card ($75-150).

In the end, what makes the 1985 Topps set such a standout for lasting value is the perfect storm of factors – iconic design, peaks of the hobby era, huge production, star rookies and future Hall of Famers, and 35+ years of collecting passion and memories tied to the cards. While other 1980s issues may see spikes from time to time, this pinnacle ’85 Topps set has proven to maintain steady, long-term enthusiast demand like few others from the decade. For collectors and investors, that consistency and resilience is what truly separates it as one of the most fundamentally sound vintage investments in the hobby.

1992 FLEER ULTRA SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

Leave a reply

The 1992 Fleer Ultra baseball card series was one of the most hyped and anticipated releases of the early 90s baseball card boom. Fleer Ultra promised improvements in photo and graphic quality compared to traditional card designs of the time. Within the set, several cards stand out as particularly valuable based on player performance and significance.

Perhaps the most coveted card from the 1992 Fleer Ultra set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already established as one of the game’s brightest young stars heading into 1992 after winning back-to-back AL Rookie of the Year awards in 1989 and 1990. His debut Fleer Ultra card captured Griffey in the middle of one of his iconic left-handed swings. As Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame career and remain one of the most popular players of his generation, his ’92 Ultra rookie became widely sought after by collectors. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, examples of Griffey’s rookie now sell for upwards of $10,000 due to its combination of subject, condition, and provenance as an early career card issued before “The Kid” became a household name.

Another extremely valuable card from the set is the Derek Jeter rookie. Like Griffey, Jeter was one of baseball’s most exciting shortstop prospects heading into the 1992 season. His Ultra rookie depicts Jeter in a Yankees batting stance during his first MLB season. Jeter would go on to have a legendary 20-year career entirely with the Yankees, winning 5 World Series championships while establishing himself as one of the premier shortstops in baseball history. The combination of his on-field success and status as a career-long Yankee creates huge demand for Jeter’s rookie cards, which have sold for over $6,000 in PSA 10 condition based on the player’s iconic career.

Another rookie card that has gained tremendous worth over the years is pitcher Pedro Martinez. Unlike Griffey and Jeter who were top prospects, Martinez was not a huge name when he debuted with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1992. In the following years he would evolve into one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history. Martinez’s combination of electric stuff and small stature made him a must-watch on the mound as he piled up accolades like 3 Cy Young Awards between 1997-1999. His career includes a brief but memorable stint with the Boston Red Sox where he helped lead them to a World Series title in 2004. All of these factors have raised the value of Martinez’s ’92 Ultra rookie considerably, with PSA 10 editions selling in the $1,500 range.

In addition to those rookie card standouts, the ’92 Ultra set contains other singles that gained worth due to the success of their subjects. Key examples include a Ken Griffey Jr. team USA card where he is depicted playing for the American Olympic squad prior to the 1992 summer games in Barcelona. Other valuable USA baseball cards can be found featuring players like Mark McGwire and Frank Thomas. Another hit card showcases Roberto Alomar game-used jersey autograph from his rookie season with the Padres in 1988, prior to his breakout years with the Blue Jays. This rare relic card has sold for over $1,000.

The most financially significant insert card from Fleer Ultra ’92 is unquestionably the “Mike Schmidt Record Breaker” parallel card. It commemorates Schmidt breaking the all-time home run record for a National League third baseman in the previous season of 1991. Extremely scarce in pristine condition with only 210 printed, this parallel reached new heights in May 2020 when a PSA 9 edition was sold for a staggering $22,400 on the auction market. This record-setting price can be attributed to Schmidt’s status as an all-time Phillies and NL third base great as well as the ultra-rare production numbers associated with this particular insert variation.

While there are many extremely expensive and sought-after cards within the 1992 Ultra set, it is still possible with some luck and persistence to acquire valuable pieces at more affordable prices if searching in lower grades. For example, a Derek Jeter or Ken Griffey Jr. rookie in PSA 7 condition may sell in the $500 range compared to many multiples of that price tag for pristine Mint 10 examples. Cards like the valuable USA baseball issues and rookie cards of players who later had solid careers can occasionally be found raw for under $100. For fans and collectors priced out of gem rookies of superstars, lesser condition but still desirable pieces from Ultra ’92 remain obtainable and hold long-term collectability due to the classic design and talent featured within.

The 1992 Fleer Ultra baseball card set launched during one of the speculative boom eras for sports cards. Within the 700+ card checklist, several rookies, inserts and parallels skyrocketed to tremendous values befitting icons of the national pastime like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter and Pedro Martinez. Although extremely expensive in top grades now, more budget-friendly versions remain a fun chase for any baseball card enthusiast. The combination of star subjects, iconic photography and pivotal release timing ensure the ’92 Ultra series retains its status as a seminal release in the history of trading cards.

APP TO SELL BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Selling baseball cards is a lucrative hobby for many collectors. As the popularity of collecting cards has grown over the years, so too have the options for selling cards. One of the most convenient methods that has emerged is through dedicated mobile apps. This article explores some of the top apps available for selling baseball cards and provides tips for using them effectively.

One of the largest and most well-known apps for selling sports cards is eBay. The eBay app allows users to easily list individual cards or entire collections for sale. Sellers can take photos of their items to include in listings, set prices and payment/shipping options. Once listed, cards are searchable by others on the eBay platform worldwide. With over 180 million active buyers, eBay provides huge exposure for sellers. EBay does charge listing and final value fees, so prices may need to be set higher to net a good profit.

Another popular option is the Collectors Universe Certified Coin Exchange (CCE) app. This app is specifically focused on trading and selling collectibles like cards, coins and memorabilia. Like eBay, sellers can list items with photos and pricing details. However, CCE focuses only on certified collectibles, meaning cards must be professionally graded by companies like PSA or BGS to be eligible for listing. This provides buyers more confidence in a card’s condition and authenticity. Sellers pay monthly membership fees but no listing or transaction fees. CCE has a large database of collectors actively searching the platform.

For a more specialized sports card selling app, consider the Topps Bunt Trading app. As the official digital trading card app of Topps, it allows users to buy, sell and trade virtual Topps baseball cards. Sellers can list duplicates from their personal collections at set prices in “credits,” the in-app currency. Since it’s a closed marketplace of sports card collectors, items tend to sell more quickly than on broader platforms. The user base is smaller so prices may not be as high as elsewhere. Topps Bunt takes a small percentage of secondary market sales as a transaction fee.

Another specialized option is the Sports Card Investor app. Unlike the others mentioned, SCI is focused solely on graded vintage cards from the pre-1980s era. These highly collectible cards can fetch huge prices. Sellers must have cards professionally graded to use the app. They can then list cards individually or in group lots. Buyers search by player, set year and grade. SCI takes a commission on completed sales but provides exposure to serious vintage collectors. Average sale prices tend to be higher through this targeted marketplace.

For a more social approach to selling cards, consider marketplace apps like OfferUp or Letgo. These apps allow users to list various collectibles and other items for sale locally. Buyers can search within a certain radius and arrange to meet in-person for transactions. For baseball cards, sellers would list individual cards, complete sets or entire collections along with photos and prices. Payment is handled in cash upon meeting. While there are no fees, the audience is limited to your local area. These apps work best if you live in an area with many sports card collectors.

No matter which app is used, there are some best practices sellers should follow. First, take high quality photos showcasing the front and back of each card in bright, natural lighting. Clearly state the player, year, set, condition and any other relevant details. Price cards competitively based on recent sold comps from platforms like eBay. Package cards securely in sleeves, toploaders or boxes for shipping. Communicate promptly, ship quickly and leave positive feedback to build trust as a seller. Following these tips can help maximize sales and profits from baseball card collections through mobile apps.

Mobile apps provide convenient new ways for collectors to sell off duplicates and invest in their hobby. Platforms like eBay, CCE, Topps Bunt and SCI tap into large communities of active buyers. General marketplace apps offer local selling options. With the right listing practices and a bit of patience, collectors can use these baseball card selling apps to efficiently turn their collections into cash. As the market for vintage cards continues booming, mobile selling will remain an important avenue for collectors.

1981 OPC BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1981 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set was a landmark release that remains a favorite among collectors to this day. Issued by Topps’ Canadian counterpart, the 1981 O-Pee-Chee set showcased another year of action on the diamond while also breaking new ground in several notable ways.

Containing a total of 232 cards, the 1981 O-Pee-Chee set was one of the larger issues of its time. In addition to standard player cards and team checklists, the ’81 OPC set introduced collectors to a variety of innovative insert subsets that remain iconic to this day. Chief among these were the “Traded” cards highlighting midseason player transactions as well as a novel “Record Breakers” subset highlighting notable single-season statistical achievements from the previous campaign.

Another highlight of the 1981 O-Pee-Chee set was its inclusion of the first ever Traded set. These insert cards, of which there were 26 in 1981, recognized notable player trades that occurred during the 1980 season. Players like Dave Kingman, Joe Charboneau, and Rick Sutcliffe appeared in their new uniforms for the first time thanks to these special Traded inserts. The innovative concept proved wildly popular with collectors and became a mainstay of OPC issues for many years after.

Aside from its unique insert selections, perhaps the biggest draw of the 1981 O-Pee-Chee release was its stellar rookie class. Headlined by Fernando Valenzuela, Dave Righetti, Pascual Perez, and Garry Templeton, the ’81 OPC set gave collectors their first cardboard looks at some of the biggest future stars of the early 1980s. Of particular note was the Fernando Valenzuela rookie card, numbered a mere #51 in the set. Not only did “FernandoMania” sweep Los Angeles en route to Rookie of the Year honors in 1981, but his dazzling rookie card has become one of the most iconic and valuable in the entire hobby due to his popularity and success.

Beyond star rookies, collectors also had the opportunity to add veterans like Mike Schmidt, Pete Rose, Nolan Ryan, and Reggie Jackson to their sets in 1981. Schmidt won his third MVP award in 1980 while Jackson blasted 33 home runs as a free agent with the Yankees. Rose continued his seemingly endless chase of Ty Cobb’s all-time hits record with the Phillies as well. Collectors could track these players’ accomplishments through their standard cardboard issues in the 1981 OPC set.

While the standard player cards and innovative inserts drew much of the focus for the 1981 OPC release, the design and production values also warrant appreciation some 40 years later. Featuring vibrant team colors and a classic player pose photo in front of a simulated baseball textile pattern, the 1981 cards retained the classic O-Pee-Chee aesthetic while enhancing the images for sharper detail. On the back, stats from the previous season were presented along with a brief paragraph on each player. Altogether, the layout established O-Pee-Chee as a design leader compared to competitive baseball card producers of the time.

For collectors looking to assemble a complete 1981 O-Pee-Chee set, chase cards included the super-short printed Traded inserts as well as the coveted #51 Fernando Valenzuela rookie. Other condition-sensitive cards that drive set value include the full-color team checklist cards and any players featuring action photos in lieu of a standard posed portrait. While tougher cards may challenge completion four decades later, the fun of pursuing this landmark release and its innovative features keeps collectors coming back to the 1981 OPC issue time and again. Whether preserving childhood memories or pursuing the perfect vintage set, 1981 O-Pee-Chee cards maintain an iconic status that new generations are always happy to discover.

In summarizing, the 1981 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set was truly revolutionary in many regards. Between its massive rookie class, innovative insert categories like Traded cards, sharp primary design, and historic subjects like Fernando Valenzuela, the 1981 OPC release set new standards and established pillars that would influence the entire hobby for many years to come. As one of the most complete, best-designed, and impactful issues of its era, the 1981 O-Pee-Chee cards continue to dazzle collectors with their charm, nostalgia, and place in baseball card history four decades after first hitting the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS KIRKSVILLE

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been an iconic part of American culture for over a century, connecting generations of fans to their favorite players through colorful images and statistics. The small town of Kirksville, located in northeast Missouri, has deep roots in the history of baseball cards dating back to the early 20th century.

Some of the earliest baseball cards produced in the late 1800s and early 1900s featured players from minor leagues and independent clubs based in small towns across the country. Kirksville was home to several independent and semi-pro baseball teams during the early decades of the 20th century. In the 1910s and 1920s, local businesses would occasionally include baseball cards of Kirksville players as promotional items or prizes. These early Kirksville cards were mostly produced in small print runs and not part of major national sets. As a result, very few are known to still exist today.

The rise of organized minor league baseball in the 1920s and 1930s helped popularize baseball cards featuring players from lower levels of professional ball. Kirksville was home to the Kirksville Owls minor league team, which played in the Missouri Valley League from 1920-1931. In the late 1920s, Gum, Inc. included several Kirksville Owls players like Willie Kamm, Ira Hutchinson, and Wally Gerber in their 1929-1931 Diamond Stars sets focused on minor league ball. These represented some of the earliest nationally distributed baseball cards featuring Kirksville players.

Kirksville native and future Hall of Famer Bob Feller got his start with the Kirksville Prairie Owls in 1935 before joining the Cleveland Indians. In 1936, Feller appeared in his first Topps baseball card as a member of the Indians at age 17, already heralded as one of the game’s top young pitching prospects. While no cards specifically feature Feller’s brief time in Kirksville, his early career cards helped raise awareness of the sport in his Missouri hometown.

After World War II, the baseball card boom of the 1950s brought renewed interest in the history of the game at the local level. In 1951, Topps included former Kirksville Owls players Ira Hutchinson and Wally Gerber in their 1951 Red Back set focused on “baseball pioneers and small town stars.” This helped preserve the legacy of Kirksville’s minor league past for future collectors and historians.

The 1960s saw a surge of nostalgia for baseball’s minor league and independent era. In 1962, Leaf included cards of several 1920s Kirksville Owls in their “Minor League Greats” set, including Willie Kamm, Red Killeen, and Jimmy Zinn. These helped Kirksville baseball history reach an even wider collector audience. Card shows and conventions also became popular meeting places for fans to trade and learn about obscure players from teams of the past.

The 1970s emergence of specialty and regional baseball card publishers like Calderwood helped small town baseball history achieve new prominence. Calderwood published sets focused specifically on the history of Missouri Valley League teams like the Kirksville Owls. Their 1975 “Missouri Valley League Greats” set included over 25 former Owls players. Calderwood and similar companies kept interest in early 20th century minor league ball alive through the 1970s and 1980s.

Today, dedicated baseball card collectors and historians continue to seek out examples of cards featuring Kirksville players from the formative independent and minor league eras before World War II. Online communities allow fans to share information and photos of obscure finds like promotional cards from early 20th century Kirksville businesses. Websites also document the history of teams like the Kirksville Owls through rosters, statistics, and photographs to provide context for the surviving baseball cards.

While no longer home to its own professional baseball team, Kirksville’s rich history is preserved through over a century of baseball cards. From early promotional issues to sets by Topps, Leaf, and specialty publishers, cards continue introducing new generations to the overlooked stories of players who took the field in northeast Missouri all those years ago. For dedicated collectors and local history buffs, the search remains ongoing to uncover every surviving example chronicling Kirksville’s place within the wider world of baseball card collecting.

USA BASEBALL STARS AND STRIPES 2022 BEST CARDS

Leave a reply

The 2022 USA Baseball Stars and Stripes set features some of the top American prospects and rising stars in all of baseball. The annual set spotlights the nation’s top talent with memorable rookie cards that are sure to become prized possessions for collectors. With 138 total cards split between Series 1 and Series 2 releases, the 2022 edition highlights several future MLB standouts just getting their careers underway. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable rookie cards and players featured in this year’s Stars and Stripes set.

Druw Jones, OF, Atlanta Braves (Series 2, #93) – As the second overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones became the highest drafted player in this year’s Stars and Stripes set. The son of five-time All-Star Andruw Jones, Druw has five-tool talent and elite athleticism that could make him a perennial All-Star if he reaches his full potential. His first pro card is sure to be one of the set’s most sought-after rookies.

Termarr Johnson, OF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Series 1, #74) – Another top 2022 draft choice, Johnson possesses oozing potential with his left-handed power bat and athletic center field skills. Still just 19 years old, he slammed homers at a torrid pace in his pro debut season and could develop into a prototypical five-tool stud. His Stars and Stripes rookie card captures the excitement around his long-term outlook.

Brock Porter, RHP, Texas Rangers (Series 1, #45) – As the top high school arm taken in the 2022 draft, Porter draws inevitable comparisons to fellow prep flamethrower Jack Leiter. His mid-90s fastball and promising slider already dominate minor league hitters. This early card establishes Porter as one to watch as he begins his quest up the organizational ladder.

Elijah Green, OF, – Green was considered by many scouts to be the best all-around hitter and pure athlete in the entire 2022 draft class. His blend of exciting tools was simply too tantalizing for teams to pass up, as the Giants selected him 5th overall. At just 18 years old, Green’s upside is through the roof and this card serves as an early reminder of his limitless potential.

Jackson Holliday, SS, Baltimore Orioles (Series 2, #3) – As the clear-cut top high school position player available in 2022, Holliday lived up to the hype by becoming the first overall draft choice. The son of seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday, Jackson makes phenomenal contact and has a knack for rising to the occasion in big moments. His dazzling debut card establishes him as the premier young shortstop in the sport.

Daniel Espino, RHP, Texas Rangers (Series 2, #29) – Despite Tommy John surgery costing him all of 2022, Espino still dazzled scouts in his brief pro debut post-surgery. His electric 100 mph four-seam fastball and 82-84 mph curveball gave hitters fits. Now fully recovered, the 2019 first-rounder looks primed for stardom as one of the game’s premium young arms.

Eury Perez, SS, Cincinnati Reds (Series 1, #56) – Signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2019, Perez quickly showed why he was worth a $3 million bonus at just 16 years old. The ultra-toolsy infielder possesses 70-grade speed and developing offensive prowess from both sides of the plate. Still just 19, Perez could ascend prospect rankings in a hurry.

Jackson Ferris, LHP, Cleveland Guardians (Series 2, #88) – The competitive fire and diverse four-pitch mix that made Ferris a first-rounder in 2022 was on full display during his pro debut. Command still needs polish but his low-90s fastball and fading changeup gave hitters fits. This early card represents the potential ace upside scouts rave about.

Anthony Solometo, LHP, Philadelphia Phillies (Series 2, #34) – After undergoing Tommy John surgery in late 2021, the former competitive balance round A choice looks primed to remind why he was so highly regarded as an elite prep arm. His deceptive delivery masks an 88-93 mph heater and tight slider combo that could yield frontline results as he returns to full strength.

Micah Dallas, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers (Series 2, #89) – A classic pitching factory product from the junior college ranks, Dallas saw his stock surge thanks to a mid-90s heater and knee-buckling curveball in his brief pro debut. His advanced pitchability and results point to him rising quickly as a potential impact mid-rotation starter or late-inning reliever.

Those represent some of the premier talents and rookie cards to watch for in the 2022 USA Baseball Stars and Stripes set. With players like Jones, Holliday, Green and more headlining the roster of prospects, this year’s edition figures to become one of the most coveted in the set’s history. Collectors would be wise to snatch up cards of these future stars while they can still be had at affordable prices. In just a few short years, cards like these could serve as valuable reminders of seeing today’s brightest young talents at the very beginning of their journeys through America’s pastime.