PANINI BASEBALL CARDS 2022

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Panini America is one of the largest and most prominent trading card companies in the sports card industry. Each year, Panini releases a wide variety of baseball card products showcasing the biggest stars and top rookies in Major League Baseball. 2022 was another highly anticipated year for Panini’s baseball card lineup, with collectors eagerly awaiting new releases featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani, Fernando Tatis Jr., and rookie superstars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Adley Rutschman.

One of Panini’s flagship baseball card releases each year is their “Flawless” line. Considered the crème de la crème of trading cards, Flawless baseball cards feature patches, autographs and rare memorabilia pieces inserted in prestige ultra-high end packaging. For 2022, Panini expanded their Flawless baseball offerings to include Flawless Football as well, packaging their most exclusive cards of NFL stars alongside MLB greats. Some of the huge patch cards pulled from 2022 Flawless Baseball packs included a 1/1 dual patch card of Mike Trout and Albert Pujols that was meticulously crafted from their respective jerseys. Another massive 1/1 card showcased a swatch of fabric from Jackie Robinson’s Brooklyn Dodgers uniform paired with a Jackie Robinson auto. Cards like these carry astronomical price tags in the thousands due to their rarity, craftsmanship and attached memorabilia.

Panini also delivered one of their richest offerings of high-end baseball card products with their 2022 Transcendent and Impeccable lines. Both sets featured rare memorabilia cards crafted from autographed bats, jersey swatches, batting practice worn caps and more. One of the biggest hits out of Transcendent Baseball was a dual patch 1/1 of Juan Soto and Ronald Acuña Jr. that featured sizable patches from their respective jerseys. Impeccable had a similar dual patch 1/1 featuring huge swatches of fabric from Mike Trout and Albert Pujols’ jerseys. Cards like these are true collector’s items that can resell for well over $10,000 due to capturing two all-time greats in one seriously rare memorabilia card.

Panini also introduced a brand new high-end baseball release in 2022 called “Infinite.” Designed to be a step below Transcendent and Impeccable in terms of exclusivity and cost, Infinite still delivered big memorabilia hits. Some top cards from the first year of Infinite Baseball included a dual relic auto of Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout that featured swatches from their jerseys alongside on-card autos. Fernando Tatis Jr. superfractor autos were also hot cards out of Infinite, with collectors eager to grab the emerging superstar. Overall Infinite Baseball provided a slightly less expensive entry point into Panini’s top-tier memorabilia cards while still delivering big name stars and sought after parallels.

Moving beyond their uber-exclusive sets, Panini released a multitude of mainstream baseball card products throughout 2022 as well. Their “Donruss” line of cards has long been a favorite among collectors, known for featuring vibrant photography and crispy on-card autographs. A huge hit out of 2022 Donruss Baseball was a Ronald Acuña Jr. superfractor auto, numbered to only 3 copies available. “Optic” is another popular Panini set, renowned for their eye-catching optic refractive embellishments on parallel cards. Optic rookies like Adley Rutschman and Bobby Witt Jr. were some of the biggest chased RCs out of 2022. Panini also produces “Prizm,” one of the highest selling and most visible modern card brands today. Prizm Baseball inserts like “Fluorescents,” “Sparkles” and “Stargazers” attract major collector interest due to their visually striking designs that appear to subtly glow under a black light.

Panini offered up a wide variety of value priced products as well for collectors looking to get in the game at a more affordable level. Their “Contenders” set is a long-running favorite that features on-card autos of stars, prospects and rising rookies. “Donruss Optic,” “Prizm Draft Picks” and “Contenders Draft Picks” are other mainstream Panini releases that target the NFL draft class each year in a more budget-friendly way. For casual fans or kids getting into collecting, Panini’s “USA Baseball” set offers up a low price point with autographs and gear of American amateur prospects.

In 2022 Panini also distributed several special products in partnership with Major League Baseball that were exclusive to specific retailers. For example, Target had an exclusive licensing deal for “Bowman Draft” jumbo boxes that sold out rapidly online whenever they were restocked. “Stadium Club” was distributed solely through Walmart with inserts like ‘Bases Loaded’ that included unique baseball memorabilia paired with star photos. These exclusive distribution deals help fuel additional hype and frenzied buying around Panini’s baseball card releases.

As the dominant force in modern sports cards, Panini looks poised to continue delivering top-tier products, memorabilia parallels and sought-after rookie cards to the growing community of baseball card collectors beyond 2022. With the rising profiles of new superstars like Juan Soto and rising prospects knocking on the door, there’s never been a better time to be collecting Panini’s stable of baseball cards at both high-end and mainstream levels. Their combination of respected brands, star-studded photography, autographs and one-of-a-kind hits continue to captivate collectors worldwide.

BECKETT GRADING BASEBALL CARDS

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Beckett Grading Services (BGS) is one of the top third-party grading companies for collectibles such as trading cards, comics, and other memorabilia. Founded in 1992 by former Beckett Publications executive James Halperin, BGS has become the gold standard for grading the condition and authenticity of sports cards and other collectibles.

When it comes to baseball cards, BGS uses a rigorous 10-point grading scale to assess each card’s condition and assign it a numeric grade. This grading scale ranges from 0 to 10, with 10 being a “gem mint” card that is in absolutely perfect condition with no flaws. A card graded as a 10 by BGS is considered the highest possible grade. The scale then goes down in half-point increments, with 9.5 still being near mint, 9 being very good, and so on down to 0 for a worthless, damaged card.

The BGS grading process begins when a collector submits their card or cards to BGS through an authorized BGS dealer or submission service. The collector fills out a submission form providing details on the cards and payment for the grading service. BGS then inspects each card under high-powered microscopes and bright lighting by a team of experienced graders. The graders thoroughly examine the front and back of each card for any flaws, imperfections, or signs of alteration that could impact the assigned numeric grade.

Some key factors BGS graders take into account include centering (how perfectly centered the image is on the card), corners (for any bends, dings or flaws), edges (for whitening or damage), and surface (for scratches, marks or other defects). Graders also check for authenticity by verifying things like production methods, materials, statistical accuracy and more. Once fully inspected, each card is assigned a numeric grade and then sealed in a tamper-evident BGS holder with the grade clearly labeled.

For collectors, the benefit of BGS grading is the impartial third-party certification of a card’s condition and authenticity. The assigned numeric grade provides a standardized and universally recognized assessment of quality that helps establish fair market value. Cards that receive high grades of 9 or above from BGS are considered to be in near pristine condition and tend to be worth significantly more than raw, ungraded cards.

The BGS population report is another valuable resource that tracks details on every card graded. This report shows how many examples of each card have been submitted for grading over time, and how many received each individual numeric grade from 1 to 10. Having this population data provides collectors with important insights into a card’s scarcity and helps determine which graded examples are the true “gem” copies.

While BGS charges submission fees for their grading service, certified and slabbed cards often sell for substantial premiums compared to raw cards in the marketplace. High-grade rookie cards or vintage cards that earn top BGS marks like 9.5 or 10 can appreciate dramatically in value over time as investment-grade collectibles. BGS has also expanded into other areas like authenticating 1st edition Pokémon cards and memorabilia.

However, BGS grading is not without its critics. Some argue the grading scale can be inconsistent between different graders, and that top numerical grades are under-populated to artificially inflate rarity. There is also concern over altered or “doctored” cards slipping through the grading process, though BGS uses advanced technology to help prevent this. Overall though, Beckett Grading Services remains the most trusted third-party authority for assigning condition census and establishing investment value in the competitive world of sports card collecting.

In summary, BGS has set the gold standard for numerically grading the condition and authenticating the origins of collectibles like baseball cards since 1992. The assigned numeric grade, encapsulation, and population data provide collectors with impartial assessments that drive market value for these investments. While not a perfect system, BGS certification has greatly benefited the hobby by standardizing condition analysis and bringing transparency to the trading card marketplace. Serious vintage card investors still see BGS-slabbed examples as the most desirable when pursuing condition-graded gems from the past.

ANY 1992 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS WORTH ANYTHING

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The 1992 Leaf baseball card set is considered one of the more iconic and valuable sets from the early 1990s. While it didn’t have the same star power as Topps or Donruss sets from that year, Leaf featured innovative photography and design that made it stand out. Nearly 30 years later, certain 1992 Leaf cards have appreciated well and could be worth a decent amount of money if graded and preserved properly. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key 1992 Leaf cards collectors should be on the lookout for.

One of the biggest stars and most valuable 1992 Leaf cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already one of the brightest young stars in baseball in 1992 and his rookie card is a true icon of the junk wax era. In pristine mint condition, graded MINT 9 or higher by PSA or BGS, Griffey’s rookie can fetch $500-$1000. Even in EX-MT to MT condition it holds value at $150-300. The photography of Griffey leaping is iconic and helped turn this into one of the most iconic and sought after modern rookie cards.

Another young star whose 1992 Leaf rookie could be worth a decent amount is Jimmy Key. As a highly touted prospect for the Toronto Blue Jays, Key’s rookie captured attention despite coming in the middle of the pack number-wise at #287. Top graded PSA 10 examples have sold for $150-250, with EX-MT and MT copies going for $50-100. Key went on to have a solid 14 year MLB career and his rookie remains one of the more sought after mid-numbered cards from the set.

Veteran superstars also featured prominently in 1992 Leaf and several of their cards hold value. Perhaps most notably is the Ryne Sandberg card, featuring the perennial All-Star and former MVP in action. PSA 10 and BGS Gem Mint 10 copies have reached $80-150. Even well-centered EX-MT to MT condition examples can bring in $30-60. Sandberg’s star power and iconic status keeps this card relevant. Another is the Nolan Ryan Express card, showcasing the legend winding up. Pristine PSA 10s have sold for $100-200 with EX-MT closer to $50-75.

Rookies and stars weren’t the only 1992 Leaf cards that gained value over time. Insert sets within the overall base set release also attracted collectors. The Diamond Kings parallel subset, featuring foil stamped photo variations of stars in diamond-encrusted uniforms, have become hot commodities for certain players. Ken Griffey Jr’s DK parallel in PSA 10 condition has reached $500-1000. Others like the Cal Ripken Jr., Kirby Puckett and Ozzie Smith DK parallels in top grades can bring $100-300. These sparkly parallel inserts added extra allure.

Beyond individual stars, complete team sets of 1992 Leaf have also grown in value. This is partly because the set totals only 363 cards, with several key teams missing entirely like the Atlanta Braves. A complete team PSA or BGS set of the Toronto Blue Jays or Cincinnati Reds in high grades could be worth $500-1000 given their star players featured. Other complete team sets like the New York Mets or Los Angeles Dodgers might bring $300-600 in top condition. For collectors seeking a full vintage set, 1992 Leaf satisfies at a reasonable price point.

When assessing condition, the most valuable 1992 Leaf cards will be those preserved in pristine mint condition, whether encapsulated by a third party grading service or verifiably kept in mint shape otherwise. The paper stock used in 1992 Leaf was prone to chipping, creasing or fading over time. So be wary of apparently high-grade raw copies and focus collections on certified examples. Also take note of centering, a common flaw even in top-graded 1992 Leaf cards. But with care and luck, there are gems from the 1992 Leaf set that could gain even more value with time. For fans of the early ’90s, it remains one of the most iconic and collectible releases.

While the 1992 Leaf baseball card set doesn’t have the same universal recognition as flagship issues from Topps or Donruss, it featured innovative photography and memorable rookie cards that have earned it a loyal collector base. Nearly 30 years later, the best preserved examples of stars like Ken Griffey Jr, Jimmy Key, Ryne Sandberg and more hold real value. Insert sets like Diamond Kings also attracted attention. With a relatively small checklist of just 363 total cards, finding complete team sets in top condition is also an achievement. By focusing on certified high-grade copies of the top rookie and star cards, collectors can find gems from the 1992 Leaf set worth protecting and holding long-term.

DUKE SIMS BASEBALL CARDS

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Duke Sims was a star center fielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1950 to 1960. While his MLB career was relatively short at just 11 seasons, Sims made quite an impact both on and off the field. He was known for his speed, defense, and hitting ability during his playing days. It is perhaps his baseball cards that have endured the most and remain highly sought after collectibles today among vintage card collectors.

Sims debuted with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1950 at just 21 years old. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 185 lbs, he cut an imposing figure in center field with his athleticism and cannon of an arm. In his rookie season of 1950, Sims hit .288 with 9 home runs and 45 RBI in 139 games to finish third in the Rookie of the Year voting. This breakout performance established him as a rising star and led to increased interest from collectors in his rookie cards from that season.

Two of the most notable rookie cards from Duke Sims’ 1950 season include the Bowman and Topps issues. The Bowman card is considered the true rookie card since it was the first mass-produced card released featuring Sims in a Phillies uniform. Only about 125 of these ultra-rare Sims Bowman rookie cards are believed to exist today in various states of condition. In top-notch Mint condition, a Sims 1950 Bowman rookie would fetch well over $100,000 at auction. Even in lower grades, these cards still sell for five figures due to their iconic status.

Meanwhile, the 1950 Topps #74 Duke Sims rookie is also hugely significant as it was the first card of Sims issued by the Topps company, which would go on to dominate the baseball card market for decades. Compared to the Bowman, several thousand more copies of the 1950 Topps Sims rookie were printed. It remains a highly valuable card grading a Mint 9 or above can sell for $15,000 or more. In lower grades of Poor-Fair condition, expect to pay $1,000-$3,000 depending on centering and quality. Both the Bowman and Topps rookies established Sims as an early and important rookie card collectible.

Following his debut season, Sims became a fixture in the Phillies lineup and continued to improve. In 1951, he hit .296 with 13 home runs and 76 RBI in 151 games while leading the National League with 14 triples. This breakout season further increased interest in Sims’ cards from collectors. His 1951 Topps issue is also a key card, often selling in the $500-$1,000 range for lower graded copies. Cards from subsequent seasons in the early 1950s continue to command four-figure prices in top condition due to his popularity during this time as a rising Phillies star.

Sims’ career year came in 1954 when he hit .311 with 17 home runs, 86 RBI, and 21 stolen bases in 155 games to finish 8th in MVP voting. That season, he appeared on Topps cards #98, #256, and #393 among others. These 1954 issues remain some of the most iconic cards featuring Sims in his prime. High-grade examples can sell for $3,000-$5,000 each. His appearance on the 1954 Topps All-Star card alongside legends like Willie Mays and Hank Aaron adds to its significance. This helped further cement Sims’ place among the game’s top players and stars of that era.

While Sims continued to produce for the Phillies for several more seasons, injuries began taking a toll on his performance in the late 1950s. He was traded to the Cincinnati Reds following the 1958 season. Duke Sims would play parts of two more seasons in Cincinnati and Detroit before retiring in 1960 at age 33. In 11 MLB seasons, he hit .279 with 108 home runs and 522 RBI over 1,380 games. Sims established himself as a premier defensive center fielder, winning a Gold Glove in 1957. He remained a popular figure in Philadelphia long after his playing days ended.

Since retiring, Duke Sims’ legacy and collectibility has lived on primarily through his baseball cards. While production numbers on early 1950s cards were much higher than today’s ultra-modern issues, Sims’ rookie cards and cards from his peak seasons with the Phillies in the early-to-mid 1950s are still immensely popular with collectors. In the lucrative high-end vintage card market, his most valuable issues regularly sell for five-figures. Even in lower grades, Sims cards still trade hands for thousands due to the importance of his career and popularity during baseball’s golden era.

For serious Duke Sims card collectors, finding high-quality examples of his rookies or key Phillies issues in pristine Mint condition remains a lifelong pursuit. While such condition census cards are exceedingly rare, they often sell at public auction for record prices. For example, in 2016 a PSA-graded Gem Mint 9 copy of the 1950 Bowman Sims rookie sold for an astounding $125,000. Condition is truly king when it comes to the greatest Sims cards. Their visual nostalgia and connection to baseball’s past continue attracting new generations of collectors decades after he last took the field.

In summary, Duke Sims left an indelible mark on the game in the 1950s as a star Phillies center fielder. While his playing career was relatively short, his baseball cards have proven to have real staying power among collectors. Keys issues like his rare 1950 Bowman and Topps rookies as well as cards from his peak 1954 season remain hugely popular targets for vintage collectors. Even for common issues, Sims cards often sell for substantial prices reflecting his importance as an early post-war star player and collectible. He may be forgotten by many casual fans today, but Duke Sims’ legacy lives on strongly through his iconic early baseball cards over 60 years later.

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 23111

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Selling Baseball Cards in Richmond, VA (ZIP code 23111)

Richmond, Virginia has a long history with professional baseball, from the Richmond Virginians of the 1880s to the current Triple-A Richmond Flying Squirrels. With baseball being so popular in the area, selling baseball cards can be a lucrative business or hobby for collectors located in Richmond and the surrounding suburbs represented by ZIP code 23111. There are many factors to consider when getting started selling baseball cards locally.

Pricing Your Cards

Accurately pricing your baseball cards is crucial to attracting buyers and making a profit. Take the time to thoroughly research recent sold prices for each card on platforms like eBay to understand fair market value. Consider factors like the player, year, condition, and any special autographs or memorabilia when determining an asking price. Price high-value cards individually and bundle common cards into reasonably priced lots. Clearly listing condition details with photos helps buyers evaluate cards. Updating prices periodically ensures you don’t miss market shifts.

Marketing Your Inventory

Once cards are priced, focus on marketing them to the local Richmond collecting community. Set up a table at Richmond-area card shows, flea markets, and collector conventions. These events put you in front of serious buyers looking for deals. Invest in an eBay store to reach a national audience. Create a Facebook page or website with your contact info advertising available cards. Network with local card shops about consignment deals and inquire about booth space for short-term pop-up shops. Promote inventory across as many sales channels as possible.

Meeting In-Person Safely

Many collectors prefer inspecting and purchasing cards face-to-face. Schedule meet-ups at public locations like shops, libraries or coffeehouses to facilitate socially-distanced transactions. Clearly communicate your health and safety procedures to reassure customers, such as masks, distancing, and sanitizing payment methods. Consider providing contactless payment options like Venmo, PayPal or Apple Pay in addition to cash if that makes buyers more comfortable. A well-lit, high-traffic area aids safe, in-person selling in the COVID-19 environment.

Shipping Materials & Methods

Shipping cards requires investment in proper packaging materials and postage methods. Supply yourself with toploaders, team bags, bubble mailers, boxes and acid-free cardboard for carefully protecting cards in transit. Purchase shipping scales to weigh packages precisely for accurate domestic postage rates. Choose affordable media mail, first-class parcel or priority mail based on value, and purchase online shipping labels through services like eBay, PirateShip or PayPal. Insuring packages protects valuable cards and builds customer confidence in your shipping practices.

Authenticating & Grading

For high-value vintage cards or rookie cards of popular players, professional authentication and grading adds credibility and value recognized by sophisticated collectors. Research reputable third-party grading services like PSA, BGS or SGC and understand their submission requirements and associated costs. When accurately described andholdered slabs appeal to serious buyers who spend top-dollar on pristine specimens. Lower-cost authenticating via authenticators on trading card forums provides peace of mind for individual collectors as well.

Taxes & Record Keeping

As your card sales increase and become a full or part-time business, proper recordkeeping and tax filings become crucial for legal compliance and avoiding audits. Maintain detailed records of all sales, costs of merchandise, inventory, mileage, supplies and any other business expenses on accounting software. Familiarize yourself with regulations around collecting sales tax based on your state and business structure. Consult a small business tax professional to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines come tax season as a hobby or side business.

With a bit of effort, a collector located in the Richmond area can enjoy selling baseball cards as a fun side hustle or serious business. Apply diligent pricing, careful packaging and safe, documented transactions to build trust with local buyers. With baseball’s popularity locally and collecting booming nationwide, selling cards from ZIP code 23111 offers the potential for profits alongside the passion of the pastime. Consistently applying best practices helps navigate regulations and take full advantage of selling into the huge baseball card market here in Richmond and beyond.

GRADED VS UNGRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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When collecting baseball cards, determining whether to grade cards or keep them ungraded is an important consideration. Card grading involves sending cards to professional services that authenticate, assess condition, and encase the card in a plastic holder with a numerical grade. While grading adds value, it also costs money and time. This article will explore the pros and cons of grading vs keeping cards ungraded.

One major benefit of grading cards is that it establishes an objective assessment of a card’s condition. Grading services like PSA and BGS employ strict standards to evaluate factors like centering, corners, edges and surface for each card. Receiving a grade provides a clear and universal communication of condition to potential buyers. Without a grade, buyers may be uncertain about a card’s true state of preservation when raw or ungraded.

Grades also increase resale value by appealing to collectors focused on higher grades. Collectors understand grades represent independent authentication of condition, reducing risks of fakes or undisclosed flaws. Cards that grade well, receiving marks of PSA 8, BGS 8.5 or above, command significantly higher prices in the marketplace than their raw counterparts. Top pop reports from servicesdetailing the number of a certain card at each grade level add desirability for scarce high grade examples.

Perhaps most importantly, encapsulating a card protects it long-term. Grading encases cards in hard plastic holders that shield them from fingerprints, dust, bent corners and other potential damages over time that can negatively impact value. This preservation factor is hugely appealing to investors and long-term collectors looking to maintain or increase an item’s worth. Raw cards are much more susceptible to gradual deterioration just from regular handling alone.

The costs of the grading process are also a major downside to consider. Major services charge fees of $10-20 per card submitted currently. Shipping costs and wait times, which can be several months, also apply. For large collections, grading every card quickly becomes very expensive. The slabbing process is also not entirely reversible should future owners want to crack a card out of the plastic holder down the line.

Grades are not failproof. While rigorous, grading is still subjective to some extent and errors or inconsistent results do occur on rare occasions. Cards could potentially grade differently if resubmitted. There’s also no guarantee a graded card won’t suffer damage like a crack in the plastic case later. Lastly, ungraded versions retain flexibility for raw collectors not focused on grades that adds to certain cards’ appeal and market.

For ungraded cards, the obvious perk is avoiding the costs and time commitment of the grading process entirely. Raw cards can simply be stored safely in portfolios, boxes or binders. This appeals to budget-minded collectors or those accumulating smaller collections. Cards kept raw are more directly exposed to risk of damage over time that could impact future values without the shielding of slabs. There’s also no objective condition assessment provided for potential buyers down the line.

Weighing these factors, most seasoned collectors recommend only grading your highest value vintage cards in gem mint or near mint condition where grades can multiply prices paid. For modern issues or less valuable vintage in lower grades, raw storage may be perfectly suitable to preserve collection quality without huge grading costs. Assessing your long term goals will determine if the protections and potential value increase of grading outweigh costs and flexibility kept of raw versions. Both have valid places in setting up a baseball card collection strategy.

While grading provides authentication, condition assessment and protection, it also requires money and time commitments that may not make sense for all cards. Ungraded storage maintains flexibility at less cost but without guaranteed long term condition preservation or objective grades to appeal to certain buyers. For valuable vintage gems and collections aimed as long term investments, grading’s benefits generally outweigh drawbacks. But raw storage works well too for most modern issues and lower end vintage where condition risks are lesser. Collectors need to evaluate their own budget and objectives to decide if the graded or ungraded route optimizes their individual collecting goals. Both have merit depending on the situation. With consideration of these pros and cons, collectors can establish the approach that offers best value given their priorities.

NOLAN RYAN BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Nolan Ryan is considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time and his baseball cards are highly coveted by collectors. Whether you’re looking to add some classic Ryan rookie cards to your collection or hunting for some of his rare late-career inserts, you’re sure to find plenty of options on eBay. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top Nolan Ryan cards available on the popular online marketplace.

One of the holy grails for any baseball card collector is Ryan’s coveted 1966 Topps rookie card. Fresh off his major league debut with the New York Mets at age 19, this iconic cardboard cut introduced baseball fans to the fireballer from Alvin, Texas. The 1966 Topps set marked the first time Topps used color photos on cards, making Ryan’s dazzling debut even more memorable. With his intense stare and signature windup captured perfectly, it’s no wonder this card has become so desirable over the years. In near-mint condition, a 1966 Nolan Ryan rookie card can easily fetch thousands of dollars on eBay. Completely gem mint copies in a PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 holder have even cracked the $20,000 mark before.

Besides his rookie, Ryan collectors also eagerly seek out his early 1970s Topps and other brand cards from his early Mets and Angels days. Examples from 1971, 1972, and 1973 Topps are some of his most commonly encountered pre-Astros issue cards and can still hold value graded and encapsulated. 1971 and 1972 Topps Nolans in a PSA 8 sell in the $50-100 range while a 1973 in PSA 8 has moved for around $150. High grades fetch exponentially more for these formative Ryan cards from before he truly began showcasing his dominance on the mound.

The late 1970s and 1980s brought Ryan to the height of his powers as he shattered numerous pitching records while starring with the California Angels and Houston Astros. His iconic 1979 and 1984 Topps cards depicting his single season strikeout records and the 5,000th K milestone are must-have cards for any serious collector. Ungraded 1979 Ryan cards in average condition can be found for under $10 but graded mint examples eclipse $100. The 1984 is equally attainable ungraded but near-perfect PSA 10s have sold for $300-500.

Two of the most visually captivating Ryan cards hail from 1986 and 1987, depicting him at the peak of his powers for Houston. The 1986 Fleer update card shows Ryan mid-windup with an electric eruption of bright colors in the background. Graded 1986 Fleer Updates in PSA 8-10 condition range from $30-150 depending on the holder grade. Meanwhile, the 1987 Topps Traded card puts Ryan in a classic cropped portrait with intense gaze – high grades in the $50-100 range are typical for this sharp visual.

The early 1990s brought some innovative Ryan inserts as he continued his career past age 40 with the Texas Rangers. 1991 Upper Deck introduced borderless photography and its Ryan card in pristine condition commands $50-100. 1992 Stadium Club Chrome had sharp refractors and the Ryan often fetches over $100 graded mint. An extremely rare 1993 Ultra Golden Moments die-cut parallel signed by Nolan himself sold for an astounding $3,250.

After retiring in 1993, Ryan remained a legend and occasional product endorser or photographer. Modern parallels and inserts from the late 90s/2000s featuring his iconic image can be found with patience. Examples include 1997 Fleer Metal Universe, 2002 Fleer Authentix, and 2007 Upper Deck Retired Signatures. While most aren’t overly valuable, they are affordable collectibles for any Ryan admirer.

Whether pursuing vintage rookies, record-breaking issues, or innovative inserts, eBay provides a depth of Nolan Ryan cards for passionate collectors. With patience and diligence, you can build an impressive collection chronicling the career of one of baseball’s most legendary flamethrowers without breaking the bank. Just be sure to carefully review listings, ask sellers questions, and only purchase from trusted sources when investing in valuable pieces of cardboard for your Nolan Ryan collection.

In closing, Nolan Ryan’s baseball card legacy spans over five decades of excellence on the mound. While his rarest and finest cards fetch five and six figure prices, fans of the Express can still build a representative eBay collection of this Texas pitching icon without spending small fortunes. Between affordable commons from his early days and increasingly available high grade modern issues, Ryan remains one of the most collectible names in the hobby.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL AND BASKETBALL CARDS

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The hobby of collecting sports cards has grown exponentially over the past few decades. As the popularity has increased, so too have the values of the rarest and most coveted cards. While it’s quite common for special run rookies or serial numbered inserts to fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, the true crown jewels of any collection are the cards that shatter records by selling for mind-boggling sums in the high five- or even six-figures. Whether mint condition vintage legends or modern memorabilia marvels, here are some of the costliest examples that trading card collectors wish they had in their possession.

Starting with baseball, one of the earliest record breakers came in the form of a 1909 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, the Wagner has long been the crown jewel of the collecting hobby due to its striking subject matter and the legend that the cigar-maker requested his image be removed from production, resulting in an extremely small printed run estimated between only 50-200 copies. The rarity and mystique have made authentic T206 Wagners the most expensive cards in the world. In 2016, a PSA NM-MT 8 copy crossed the $3 million threshold in a private sale. Just two years later, another PSA-graded NM-MT 8 example shattered records by fetching $6.6 million at auction.

Staying in the same 1909-11 T206 era, other specimens that have topped charts include a PSA Authentic card of Nap Lajoie. Graded NM-MT 8, it rang up $3,240,000 at a Goldin Auctions sale in 2021. A T206 Christie Mathewson in PSA NM-MT 8 condition also took the second highest price ever for a T206 at $2,880,000. More recently in January 2022, an exceptionally high-grade T206 Eddie Plank brought a staggering $1,320,000 despite reports of the buyer being outbid. It showed that these 100+ year old tobacco cards still have the power to deliver eight-figure surprises.

Flash forward to the post-WWII 1950s and one of the earliest desirable rookie cards, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, begins to gain collector attention. High-grade versions regularly sell in the mid-five figure range today. But, back in 1991 an unopened wax pack containing a PSA Gem Mint 10 Mantle rookie went for an almost unbelievable $126,000, shattering existing records. Now, PSA 10 Mantles have been known to reach the $2-5 million range and one raw copy was even reportedly purchased for over $10 million in a private sale.

The 1960s produced its own iconic cards as well. In 2007, a poster-sized 1967 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card achieved $27,500. But in 2017, a PSA 9 copy with a flawless autoshot fetched an astronomical $999,750 on eBay, doubling the previous record. Around the same time, two different PSA 10 versions of the 1968 Topps Johnny Bench rookie made waves by selling for $44,100 and $47,500 respectively, showing strength for high-end copies of “The Big Red Machine’s” first card.

The late 1980s and early ’90s inserted new cards that targeted an older generation of collectors with disposable incomes. Upper Deck’s Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from 1989 is a standout, with PSA 10s now reaching seven-figures and even exceeding $1.5 million raw. In 2013, a Denny’s MVP Edition promotional insert hit $56,250 to make headlines. But a year later, a PSA 10 Babe Ruth autograph from an exceedingly rare 1992 Topps set obliterated the record after a bidding war drove the final sale to an unfathomable $637,600.

Some collectors got the opportunity to own slice of history by acquiring game-used memorabilia cards. A 2001 Playoff Contenders Christopher Bradley autograph patch card featuring an actual piece of his World Series jersey went for a cool $35,100. Even more, in 2016 a rare triple jersey patch card containing swatches from Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Joe DiMaggio’s famed “Bronx Bombers” was acquired in a private sale estimated at $750,000. Later that same year, a 2016 Topps Five Star Mike Trout jersey/bat dual relic smashed records at $399,990.

The world of vintage basketball cards could never match the astronomical values seen in baseball. Some truly one-of-a-kind specimens have still commanded top dollar from dedicated hoops collectors. In 2016, a 1957 Topps Wilt Chamberlain rookie card rated PSA 9 brought $255,500 at auction, thought to be the highest price paid for a pre-70s basketball card. Even more astounding was a 2009-10 Logoman Lebron James patch auto logged at PSA 9.5/BGS 9.5 that realized $224,900 in January 2018, proving modern memorabilia parallels could demand high-roller money as much as the classics.

Condition is everything, as evidenced by a 2015 Panini National Treasures Lebron James patch auto graded immaculate PSA 10 BGS 10. After bringing a staggering $280,100 in 2017, it reset the standard for a modern NBA card’s value. That same year, a 1969 Topps Kareem Abdul-Jabbar PSA 8 saw robust $104,150 bids submitted. More proof that in the face of growing nostalgia, the best vintage star specimens will be pursued as compulsively as the modern phenoms.

While the average collector can still find enjoyment from more attainably-priced subsets, parallels and lower-graded copies, the true elite level of sports card values will likely always be defined by those exceptionally rare and well-preserved vintage hall-of-famers along with unique modern game-worn memorabilia. Condition, subjective rarity assessments, and bullish market trends can push certain specimens into the million-dollar realm seemingly overnight. Whether in a private sale or major public auction, shattering records is just one massive bid away when icons of the industry exchange hands.

HIGHEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has grown exponentially over the past several decades. As the collectibles market has boomed, so too have the prices people are willing to pay for the rarest and most desirable baseball cards. eBay has become the preeminent online marketplace for selling collectibles of all kinds, including vintage baseball cards. Through eBay sales we have seen record prices paid for some of the most iconic cards from the early days of the sport. Below is an in-depth look at some of the highest selling baseball cards that have been auctioned off on eBay over the years.

One of the earliest and most expensive baseball cards ever sold on eBay was a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card that was graded Mint 9 by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). This iconic Wagner card is considered the holy grail of baseball cards due to its rarity—it is estimated only 50-200 were originally printed. In 2016, this near perfect example of the elusive T206 Wagner smashed expectations when it sold for $3.12 million, making it not only the highest selling baseball card ever sold on eBay but one of the costliest collectibles of any kind. What makes the price even more impressive is that the previous eBay record for a T206 Wagner was $657,250 set back in 2007.

Another T206 Wagner card would set the second highest price paid for a baseball card on eBay. In 2016, a PSA Authentic specimen graded Fair 2 fetched an astounding $911,500. While heavily played, this example still brought an eye-popping eight figures due to the extreme scarcity of the T206 Wagner in any grade. Just one year later, in 2017, yet another PSA-graded T206 Wagner, this one earning an overall grade of Good 2.5, would break the $1 million threshold when it closed at $1,320,000. The skyrocketing prices cemented the T206 Honus Wagner as officially the most valuable baseball card—and arguably the most valuable collectible card—in the world.

While the T206 Wagners reign supreme as the highest selling cards on eBay ever, some more modern rookie cards have also broken records. In 2007, a 1963 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 sold for a then-record $100,100. The iconic Mick’s first Topps issue remains one of the most sought-after rookies in the hobby even decades after his playing days. A few years later, in 2011, a 1952 Topps Willie Mays rookie PSA 9 would surpass the Mantle when it sold for an astonishing $450,000. Mays’ brilliant career and the superlative condition of this example helped it become the first post-war baseball card to break the $400k price barrier.

Two legendary rookie cards from the 1970s would explode on the scene in the mid-2010s, setting new standards for modern era cards. In 2016, a 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie PSA 9 sold for an incredible $465,000. Considered the best hockey player of all-time, interest in Gretzky’s first issued card had grown substantially in previous years. Then in 2017, a 1976 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie PSA 9 achieved the highest public sale price for any card not featuring Honus Wagner when it closed at $521,000. Ripken’s iconic Iron Man streak and the condition of the card wowed bidders. Both sales highlighted how rookie cards of select all-time greats from the ’70s and ’80s era had begun seriously competing with their older counterparts in value.

Two more modern rookies joined the seven-figure club on eBay in 2021. A 1979 O-Pee-Chee Gretzky rookie PSA 9.5 shattered expectations when it sold for a whopping $1.29 million in January of that year. Remarkably pristine for its age and from a short printed Canadian set, it became the new most valuable hockey card overall. Meanwhile in August 2021, a 1998 Bowman’s Best Refractors Frank Thomas rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 set the record for highest price paid for any card from the 1990s at $1.447 million. The condition and appeal of Thomas’ first ever “refractor” parallel helped it beat out even the great vintage cards for the second highest baseball card sale on eBay at the time.

While the Honus Wagner T206s will likely remain the highest selling cards on the platform in perpetuity, eBay sales have demonstrated the rising values of star rookie cards from more recent generations. Products from the 1970s, such as the Gretzky and Ripken rookies, have broken into the five and six figure range. Meanwhile a select few modern issues like the 1998 Thomas refractor and 1979 Gretzky have achieved previously unthinkable million dollar price points. As star players of today like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Shohei Ohtani start their respective careers, will their rookie cards from the 2010s someday compete with even the all-time greats? Only time will tell, but based on the escalating prices seen on eBay, the collectibles market will surely continue rewarding exceptionally preserved cards of certified future Hall of Famers for generations to come.

MOST VALUABLE 1998 PINNACLE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1998 Pinnacle baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases of the late 90s. While it did not have the same logo design popularity as the iconic early 90s sets like Upper Deck or Score, 1998 Pinnacle featured some of the game’s biggest stars and rookies from that season. As such, certain cards from the 1998 Pinnacle set have grown tremendously in value over the past 20+ years. Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive and sought after 1998 Pinnacle baseball cards on the modern collecting market.

One of the clear standouts from the 1998 Pinnacle set is the Alex Rodriguez rookie card. As one of the most hyped prospects ever and an eventual Hall of Famer, Rodriguez’s rookie cards from his debut season with the Mariners in 1994 have always been highly coveted. His 1998 Pinnacle card, featuring him as a young star with the Mariners, has appreciated greatly due to his legendary career. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples regularly sell for $5,000+ online today. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8 or BGS 9 still command $1,000+ due to the rarity of this A-Rod rookie. It’s universally considered one of the best rookie card investments from the 1990s.

Another popular rookie from 1998 was Nomar Garciaparra of the Boston Red Sox. Garciaparra’s offensive prowess, strong debut, and Red Sox fandom combined to make his 1998 Pinnacle rookie a strong mover. High-grade PSA 10 versions can bring over $900 while PSA 9s sell for approximately $250-300 average. Garciaparra never quite lived up to being a superstar but his cards remain popular with Red Sox collectors to this day. For a player collected uniquely for his rookie season, the Nomar Pinnacle rookie has performed very well.

Ken Griffey Jr. cards from the late 90s are always in high demand due to his epic career and user-friendly swing that captured the attention of many fans. His 1998 Pinnacle card does not have true rookie status but features Griffey in his Seattle Mariners prime. PSA 10 Griffey Pinnacle cards can sell for over $300 while PSA 9 copies still reach the $100-150 range. Anyone who invested in these popular 1990s stars like Junior, A-Rod, or even Garciaparra has seen great returns in the decades since.

The 1998 rookie card of Philadelphia Phillies star Scott Rolen also garners strong modern interest. As an all-star third baseman who won several Gold Gloves, Rolen established himself as one of the game’s better players early on. High-grade versions of his scarce Pinnacle rookie in PSA 10 can sell for $600-800 in today’s market. Even in a PSA 9 state, Rolen rookies trade hands for $300-400 showing solid appreciation. For fans of the late 90s Phillies or Cardinals teams, the Rolen rookie remains an iconic piece from that era.

For collectors who held onto raw copies or had the foresight to grade their 1998 Pinnacle cards years ago, the monetary value on investment continues to rise significantly. Take for example the ultra-rare PSA 10 mint of Sammy Sosa’s base card from that year. Considered one of the toughest Pinnacle cards to grade flawlessly, a perfect 10 Sosa just sold online for over $2,000. That’s an astronomical rise from its retail price in the late 90s. Even PSA 9 copies can reach $500+ due to the challenge of this Sosa card grading pristine.

Rookies are not the only 1998 Pinnacle cards increasing exponentially in value either. Stars like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and others from that era all have appreciating cards as well. A PSA 10 1998 Pinnacle Barry Bonds regularly trades hands for $500+ on the current market. Near-perfect PSA 9 98 Pinnacle Greg Maddux cards reach the $300-400 range too. Clearly, investing in the game’s all-time great talent from any era yields long term rewards if one holds onto the best condition copies and has them graded properly over time.

Despite not receiving the same collector fervor as the early 90s sets, 1998 Pinnacle housed some truly huge investable stars and rookies which are really paying dividends today. Rookie cards of Alex Rodriguez, Nomar Garciaparra, and Scott Rolen top $600 raw while Griffey Jr, Sosa, Bonds, and McGwire base high-grades trade for $500+ as well. For those who hung onto their mint copies and submitted to respected third-party grading over the past 20+ years, the 1998 Pinnacle baseball release has proven to be an incredibly worthwhile long term sports investment yielding 4-5x or more returns depending on the player and grade. These cards remain some of the hottest commodities from the late 90s collecting boom.