KYLE KENDRICK BASEBALL CARDS

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Kyle Kendrick is a former Major League Baseball starting pitcher who played in the MLB from 2007 through 2017 for the Philadelphia Phillies, Colorado Rockies, and Los Angeles Dodgers. While never an All-Star or big name player, Kendrick had a long career as a serviceable back-end starter and middle reliever in the big leagues. As a result of his decade-long MLB tenure, Kendrick has been featured on numerous baseball cards over the years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the more notable Kyle Kendrick baseball cards from the prime of his playing career.

2007 Topps Kyle Kendrick RC (#501)

Kendrick’s rookie card came in 2007 Topps, the year he made his MLB debut with the Phillies at age 24. This served as his official rookie card (RC). It pictures Kendrick in a Phillies uniform from his rookie season, with some basic stats from his minor league career on the back. The 2007 Topps set had decent popularity during Kendrick’s early career, so this RC can still be found in very affordable condition online or at card shops. In near mint or better condition, it typically sells for around $3-5.

2009 Topps Kyle Kendrick (#328)

By 2009, Kendrick had established himself as a part of the Phillies’ starting rotation, making 30 starts that season. He earned his first Topps base card beyond his rookie. This card pictures Kendrick in his windup during a game at Citizens Bank Park. Stats from the 2008 and 2009 seasons are on the back. Condition is key for any common base card like this, but a well-centered, near mint 2009 Topps Kendrick can be had for under $1.

2010 Topps Kyle Kendrick (#244)

By 2010, Kendrick was a full-time member of the Phillies’ rotation following the departures of Brett Myers and Jamie Moyer. This secured him another Topps base card. It shows him pitching at Dodger Stadium, with updated stats through the 2009 season on the back. Similar to the ’09 card, a mint condition ’10 Topps Kendrick lists for around 50 cents to $1.

2011 Topps Update Kyle Kendrick (#US262)

Kendrick started 31 games for the Phillies in 2011, enjoying one of his best seasons statistically. This led to him being included in the 2011 Topps Update set towards the end of that year. The card features a close-up action shot of Kendrick on the mound. Career stats were again provided on the back. Very affordable like most base Update cards, a near mint ’11 Kendrick Update can usually be had for under $1.

2012 Topps Kyle Kendrick (#305)

By 2012, Kendrick had established himself as a dependable back-end starter and swingman in the Phillies’ rotation and bullpen for several years running. This earned him yet another Topps base card that year. It depicts Kendrick pitching at home against the Mets, framed in a zoomed-in action shot style. Updated career numbers are listed on the reverse. Still in high production, well-centered mint copies can often be found for around 50 cents.

2013 Topps Kyle Kendrick (#322)

Kendrick’s successful run with the Phillies continued into 2013, leading to his customary base card that year. This issue shows him stretching during warmups at Citizens Bank Park. Career stats are again provided on the back. Common issues from sets of the mid-2010s like 2013 Topps usually sell in the under $1 range when in mint condition, making this an easily accessible Kendrick card.

2014 Topps Update Kyle Kendrick (#US239)

After starting 29 games in 2013, Kendrick landed another card in the 2014 Topps Update set late that year. The card captures him pitching on the road against the Reds, along with career stats on the reverse as per usual. Very affordable like most base Update issues, pristine copies can regularly be had for 50 cents or less given the set’s high production numbers.

2015 Topps Kyle Kendrick (#596)

Kendrick’s last season with the Phillies was 2015, where he made 31 appearances including 19 starts and tossed 140 innings. This final Phillies stint resulted in one more Topps base card showing him in red pinstripes. It features a headshot with helmet and career stats continuing to be displayed on the back. Still inexpensive at under $1 in top condition due to common production levels.

2016 Topps Rockies Kyle Kendrick (#645)

After being released by the Phillies that offseason, Kendrick signed with the Colorado Rockies for 2016. This led to new Rockies uniforms on a base card that year through Topps. It displays him stretching against the green and purple Rockies backdrop. Aggregated stats spanning his time with both Philadelphia and Colorado were provided on the reverse. Very affordable at 50 cents or less in pristine shape.

2017 Topps Dodgers Kyle Kendrick (#650)

Kendrick’s last MLB season was a short stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017 after being released by Colorado. This resulted in one final Topps base card, now in Dodger blue. It pictures Kendrick at Dodger Stadium, with cumulative stats updated to include his contributions for all three career MLB teams. Even today, this late-career issue can usually be acquired for well under $1 in top-graded condition.

While Kyle Kendrick was never a superstar, his consistent mid-rotation presence with the Phillies from 2007-2015 paired with brief later stops resulted in plentiful cardboard issues chronicling his decade-long MLB tenure. Many of these common Topps and Topps Update cards can still be found inexpensively today, providing affordable options for any collector looking to represent the journeyman pitcher within their baseball collection. Though not hugely valuable on their own, taken together they tell the story of Kendrick’s career each step of the way through cardboard.

91 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While most cards from sets of that time period are not worth much today, there are a select few 1991 Donruss rookies and stars that can still fetch big money from serious collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and sought after cards from the 1991 Donruss set.

One of the true heavyweight champions of the 1991 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best player designs of the junk wax era, Griffey’s rookie card showcases “The Kid” in all his youthful glory. Even back in the early 90s, Griffey was already one of the game’s brightest young stars and his card was in high demand. Today, a pristine Griffey Jr. rookie in gem mint condition can sell for well over $1,000. Even well-centered near mint copies still trade hands for several hundred dollars. Griffey’s iconic rookie is undoubtedly the blue chip card of the 1991 Donruss set.

Another massive hitter from the 1991 Donruss set is the Chipper Jones rookie card. Like Griffey, Jones emerged as a true superstar very early in his career and his rookie is one of the most coveted from the junk wax era. In gem mint 10 condition, the Jones rookie has sold for upwards of $800-900 in recent years. Near mint copies can still pull in $300-500 depending on centering and corners. What makes the Jones rookie so collectible is that he was not only a perennial All-Star but also spent his entire Hall of Fame career with the Atlanta Braves franchise.

The 1991 Donruss set is also home to the rookie card of one of the game’s most prolific power hitters – Jim Thome. Though not as well-known or iconic as the Griffey and Jones rookies, the Thome rookie has steadily gained value in recent years as his stellar career has been recognized and appreciated. Pristine mint condition Thome rookies have cracked the $400-500 price range. Even well-centered near mint copies can still sell in the $150-250 range. For those who enjoyed watching “The Big Donkey” mash baseballs over the fence, his rookie remains a prized possession.

In addition to star rookie cards, the 1991 Donruss set also features the rookie seasons of other notable players like Bobby Bonilla, Moises Alou, and David Justice. While not quite as expensive as the headliners above, these lesser-known rookies can still hold value for dedicated collectors. For example, a mint Bonilla rookie recently sold for around $150 while a pristine Alou fetched close to $100. For teams enthusiasts, the 1991 Donruss set also gives access to the rookie cards of franchise cornerstones like Tom Glavine (Braves), Paul Molitor (Brewers), and Craig Biggio (Astros).

Of course, no discussion of valuable 1991 Donruss cards would be complete without mentioning the legendary Ken Griffey Sr. error card. Due to a printing mistake, a small number of Griffey Sr. cards were accidentally inserted into packs with the photo and stats of his son, Ken Griffey Jr. These error beauties are the holy grails for any junk wax collector. In gem mint condition, a Griffey Sr. error card could sell for $10,000 or more. Even well-centered near mint copies still trade hands for $3,000-$5,000 depending on the market. Their extreme rarity and fascinating production glitch make these cards true unicorns in the hobby.

Aside from rookies, the 1991 Donruss set also pays homage to the game’s biggest stars of that era. Nolan Ryan, whose express train to the strikeout record was in full steam, sees his card valued around the $75-100 range in pristine condition. Other veteran superstars like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, and Tony Gwynn routinely sell in the $30-60 range depending on centering and corners. For team collectors, stars on iconic franchises like Cal Ripken Jr. (Orioles), Kirby Puckett (Twins), and Ozzie Smith (Cardinals) command slight premiums over other players at their position.

While the bulk of the 1991 Donruss baseball card set holds little monetary value today, there are still quite a few modern day Hall of Famers and all-time greats that can be found and appreciated. The rookie cards of Ken Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, and Jim Thome remain the true blue-chip investments. Meanwhile, the elusive Ken Griffey Sr. error is the true pot of gold at the end of the junk wax rainbow. For collectors who enjoy preserving memories of baseball’s recent past, picking up some of these valuable 1991 Donruss gems could make for an enjoyable trip down memory lane.

1962 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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The 1962 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of baseball cards. With its colorful design, inclusion of great players, and historic moments captured, it remains a hugely popular set for collectors decades later. As with any vintage sports card set, values of individual 1962 Topps cards can vary greatly depending on condition, player, and specific circumstances surrounding the card. Let’s take a closer look at what makes some 1962 Topps cards more valuable than others and explore estimated worth ranges.

Perhaps the most coveted and expensive card in the 1962 set is the Mickey Mantle (.311) – his basic regular season card without any special photo variants. High graded PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 examples of this Mantle card have sold for over $100,000 in recent years. Even well-centered near Mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range can bring $5,000-$15,000 at auction depending on day. This card holds legendary status as it captures “The Mick” during the twilight of his career, making examples in great condition especially significant historically.

Other huge stars of the time period also command top dollar, including Hank Aaron (.287) who hit .322 with 39 home runs in 1962 en route to his only MVP award. PSA 10 Aaron cards have sold for $30,000+, while PSA 8-9 copies are valued around $3,000-$7,000 or more. Willie Mays (.306) and Roberto Clemente (.307) are also incredibly desirable due to their individual greatness and cultural impacts. Top graded examples change hands for $8,000-$15,000 each.

Rookies and early career stars present intriguing affordable opportunities compared to the superstars. A PSA 9 or 10 of Sandy Koufax’s (.204) rookie card is estimated at $2,000-$4,000 depending upon the exact specs. The base Koufax rookie is quite rare in pristine condition due to its early print run. Other possibly affordable high grades include Felipe Alou (.242 – $600 PSA 9), Don Drysdale (.209 – $500 PSA 9 rookie), and Dick Radatz (.208 – $300 PSA 9). Graded 8s in these rookies are worth $200-$400 usually.

Certain teams are perennially popular like the Yankees, and high graded examples of their 1962 stars can also make a collector’s wallet hurt – a PSA 10 Mickey Mantle (.311) in Yankee road grey uniform is worth close to $200,000. Roger Maris’s (.269) record-setting 1961 season is acknowledged right on the front of his ’62 card, making PSA 10s highly valuable at $15,000-$25,000. World Series heroes like Ralph Terry (.147 – $400 PSA 9) and Bobby Richardson (.260 – $250 PSA 9) garner bonus interest due to their Fall Classic contributions.

Beyond the individual superstar and rookie cards, there are also several short prints and variants that fetch big money. The Felipe Alou (.242) card is one of the most notorious short prints from the ’62 set due to its much lower overall production numbers. PSA 9s sell for around $2,000 and have reached as high as $5,000. Another major variant is the Pete Runnels (#492) card, which has a different red-tint photo from the standard issue version. High graded Runnels variants can earn over $1,000.

Condition is king when assigning value to vintage baseball cards. While lower graded ’62 Topps cards still hold value, the high end gem mint 10 population is minuscule – only 2% or less of original production based on PSA Registry data. As a result, any PSA/BGS 10 is an elite tier rare example worth major investment. Well-centered PSA 8s and 9s still provide a relatively affordable entry point into this classic set, with most common player cards starting around $25-$50 and rising from there based on pedigree. With over 600 total cards to find across the 1962 Topps baseball issue, this vintage set offers opportunities and stories for collectors of all budgets and interests over 60 years later.

The 1962 Topps baseball card set continues to captivate fans with its mix of all-time great players, World Series highlights, and of course, the always popular rookie cards of tomorrow’s legends like Koufax. Condition is paramount, but multiple card varieties and player tiers ensure collector opportunities whatever the budget. Especially for keys like Mantle, Mays and Aaron, the sky seems the limit as values will always be defined by rarity, history, and demand for these seminal cardboard pieces of baseball iconography. And as long as the hobby thrives, the 1962 Topps set will remain a benchmark achievement in the sport for years to come.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1991 FLEER

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The 1991 Fleer baseball card set is regarded as one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of the sport. While it did not feature any rookies that went on to huge superstar careers, the 1991 Fleer set contained several young stars andHall of Famers that have become hugely valuable vintage cards over the past 30 years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most costly gems from the 1991 Fleer set if found in top condition.

The most expensive and coveted card from the 1991 Fleer set is the #416 Ken Griffey Jr. card. Widely considered one of the best all-around player prototypes of the 1990s, Griffey was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star and elite power threat by 1991 in just his third MLB season. His sweet lefty swing that generated effortless home runs was a thing of beauty to watch. In a Near Mint Mint (N-M/MT) 8 grade, Griffey’s 1991 Fleer rookie has sold for over $12,000. In pristine Mint (MT) 10 condition, the Griffey is worth around $25,000-$30,000.

Staying with future Hall of Famers, the #198 Nolan Ryan card also fetches big money in the hundreds to thousands of dollars today for elite copies. Ryan was in his age 44 season in 1991 but was still dealing heat for the Texas Rangers, as evidenced by his 301 strikeouts that year. In NM-MT 8 or MT 10 grade, the Ryan 1991 Fleer sells in the $800-$2,000 range. Another Texan star, #253 Juan Gonzalez, consistently sold for $350-$500 in top condition as Gonzalez burst onto the scene by batting .296 with 33 home runs as a 23-year-old in 1991.

A couple of other young stars that fetch 4 figures for pristine MT 10 copies of their 1991 Fleer cards are #353 Barry Bonds ($1,000-$2,000) and #414 Mark McGwire ($1,200-$1,800). Bonds was in his prime in 1991 with the Pirates, hitting .250 with 25 home runs and 50 stolen bases while establishing himself as perhaps the best all-around player in baseball. McGwire was also in his athletic prime in 1991 with the A’s, belting 33 long balls. Both players in MT 10 condition demand high prices from die-hard collectors.

Two other veteran Hall of Famers that have valuable and iconic 1991 Fleer cards are #109 Andre Dawson and #312 Dave Winfield. Dawson was a 14-time All-Star entering his age 36 season with the Cubs in 1991. His career was winding down but he still had pop, batting .230 with 19 home runs that year. Dawson’s 1991 Fleer in top condition sells for $500-$800. Meanwhile, Winfield was a member of the legendary 1991 Twins championship team. The smooth-swinging outfielder knocked in 94 runs hitting behind Kirby Puckett and Kent Hrbek. Winfield’s 1991 Fleer in pristine condition sells for $350-$550.

Other very expensive 1991 Fleer cards include #14 c Roberto Alomar (MT 10 prices around $800), #188 c Mike Piazza (MT 10 around $650), #221 Dennis Eckersley (MT 10 around $450), #251 Kirby Puckett (MT 10 values $500-600) and #325 Robin Yount (MT 10 approximately $400). Both Alomar and Piazza were budding superstars in 1991 in their early 20s, with Hall of Fame arcs ahead. Eckersley, Puckett and Yount were all flagship players for their franchises in the early 90s as well.

While star power and players with Hall of Fame resumes dominate the upper echelon of valuable 1991 Fleer cards, there are also a few more budget-friendly gems for collectors on a budget:

#54 Kenny Lofton (NM-MT 8 around $50): Lofton was an emerging star for Cleveland developing his trademark stolen base prowess in 1991.

#237 Moises Alou (NM-MT 8 $30-50): Alou burst onto the scene batting .267 with 11 home runs as a 23-year-old rookie with the Pirates in 1991.

#297 Chili Davis (NM-MT 8 $20-40): Davis put up a solid .267 BA, 19 HR, 79 RBI season for the Angels at age 30 in 1991.

#356 Tom Glavine (NM-MT 8 $15-30): Glavine posted a solid 15-11 record and 3.68 ERA for the Braves in just his second MLB season in 1991.

#419 Gregg Jefferies (NM-MT 8 $10-20): Jefferies showed early promise batting .301 as a 21-year-old rookie second baseman for the Mets in 1991.

While it may lack huge star rookies compared to sets like 1990 or 1992 Fleer, the 1991 vintage has stood the test of time with valuable cards featuring MLB’s biggest stars of the early 1990s, both in their prime and winding down Hall of Fame careers. For high-grade examples, it remains a solid set for long-term investing in the modern vintage baseball card market.

2022 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS AT TARGET

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The 2022 Major League Baseball season brought with it the debut of Topps’ latest baseball card releases. While sports card collectors had several retail and hobby options to seek out the new year of cards, one of the most accessible retailers for finding 2022 Topps baseball wax packs, boxes, and memorabilia cards was Target. With a widespread national store presence and reasonably competitive pricing, Target locations across the United States stocked racks with the brand new 2022 Topps products, making them easily obtainable for countless fans and collectors.

Some of the major flagship 2022 Topps baseball card releases found at Target included Series 1, Series 2, Update Series, Chrome, Allen & Ginter, Heritage, and Stadium Club. Series 1 was the primary focus in the early months, containing base cards and numbering parallels of every active Major League player. Hobby boxes of Series 1 yielded either 12 or 18 packs with each containing over a dozen cards on average. Target sold these boxes for $39.99, giving collectors an entry point into chasing their favorite stars and prospects.

Individual Series 1 and 2 wax packs were also a mainstay on the racks at Target. Including over a dozen cards each like the boxes, these single packs retailed for $3.99, allowing a more affordable way to rip packs while still having chances at hits. Shortprint variations, yellow parallel serial numbered cards under /199, and diamonds parallels could all be pulled from Series 1 and 2 retail wax packs. Checklists featured over 600 total player cards between the two series, ensuring a high number of base rookies as well.

Insert sets were another major collector draw to 2022 Topps products found at Target. Allen & Ginter featured charming non-sports artwork and unique mini cards. Meanwhile, Heritage High Number highlighted retro designs paying tribute to classic tobacco era sets. Stadium Club was the ultra-premium offering containing sharp photography on high-gloss stock. Even more coveted were autos, relics, and 1/1 printing plates that could surface in these insert sets across the different Topps releases.

Target also carried 2022 Update Series once it was released in late summer as a mid-season primer for the remainder of the MLB campaign. Update included rookie additions like Adley Rutschman and players who had been traded to new teams since the flagship series. The notoriously short print Chrome cards were available too in both retail blaster and jumbo boxes at the big box retailer. Chrome served as the high-end flagship parallel with shiny refractors, colors, and even 1/1 black printing plates among the highly sought after hits.

Unlike hobby shop exclusives, Target didn’t carry jumbo hobby boxes containing 36 packs which are preferred by breakers and high-end collectors chasing autographs. They still housed a very consumer friendly selection of various 2022 Topps products so anyone could rip packs and potentially pull rookies, stars, and parallels of the current MLB season. From casual collectors to kids saving up allowance money, Target’s baseball card offerings made the yearly Topps releases highly accessible in an brick and mortar retail setting.

Many collectors enjoyed browsing the baseball card aisles at their local Targets to stay stocked on 2022 Series 1, 2, Update, Chrome, and more Topps releases throughout the spring and summer. While Target’s supply and restock frequency did fluctuate at times, they maintained a strong in-store presence for the flagship Topps baseball cards concurrent with the MLB schedule. If collectors struck out finding certain products on initial visits, Target provided an easy option to check back as new shipments arrived fairly regularly.

For breaks and group breaks hosted by card shops, Target wax packs and blasters served as an affordable supply source since they didn’t break the bank like hobby boxes. Many breakers replenished stock by stopping at various Targets for supplies. Resellers frequently scouted Targets for underpriced 2022 Topps boxes and highly chased short prints to list on eBay and through group break customer slots. Social media was also rife with “Target hits” showcases of big rookie pulls directly from retail packs.

By carrying 2022 Topps baseball cards headlined by Series 1 as a consistent in-store staple, Target succeeded in greatly increasing the accessibility and reach of the annual flagship releases. Families, kids, and casual collectors gained an easy destination to participate in the yearly Topps baseball card cycle synced to the Major League schedule, whether looking to add a few packs or boxes to their collection or searching forcoveted rookie cards and parallels of star players. Thanks to widespread Target stores, the 2022 Topps lineup had far broader consumer visibility and appeal compared to strictly hobby shops alone. As such, Target served a major role in keeping trading cards relevant and discovered by new generations.

While retail challenges may impact individual Target store’s card stock some weeks, their commitment to carrying Topps baseball helped continue growing the fanbase. The MLB, Topps, and consumers all benefitted from having 2022 Series 1, Chrome, Allen & Ginter and more available on convenient local Target shelves. For as long as the partnership continues putting current-year Topps sets within easy reach, Target will remain a staple supplier catering to collectors of all dedication levels eager to rip packs chronicling each new baseball season.

AL KALINE BASEBALL CARDS

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Al Kaline was one of the greatest right fielders and pure hitters in baseball history during his 22-season career playing for the Detroit Tigers from 1953 to 1974. Known as “Mr. Tiger,” Kaline became a beloved figure in Detroit and throughout the baseball card collecting community. His rookie card from 1955 Topps is one of the most iconic and valuable cards in the hobby.

Kaline made his major league debut at just 18 years old in 1953 after being signed by the Tigers as an amateur free agent in 1953. While he didn’t have a baseball card issued during his rookie season, collectors were eager to get their hands on his first card once the 1954 season rolled around. However, Topps lost the MLB licensing rights that year to Bowman and Kaline did not have a card released.

In 1955, Topps regained the MLB rights and issued Kaline’s highly anticipated rookie card. The card featured a photo of Kaline from his 1954 season, his second in the majors, showing him in a batting stance wearing his distinctive #6 Tigers jersey. On the surface, Kaline’s rookie card looked quite plain compared to many of the elaborate designs Topps used that year. Its understated simplicity has added to its allure over the decades.

When it was released in 1955, Kaline’s rookie card had a print run estimated to be around 300,000 copies. While a sizable print run for the time, demand was even higher given Kaline’s early success and status as one of baseball’s brightest young stars playing for the popular Tigers. As a result, Kaline’s rookie remained relatively scarce in the following years. Into the 1960s and 1970s, the card grew mythic status among collectors as one of the true “holy grails” of the hobby.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the sports card market exploded in popularity. Suddenly, adults who collected as kids were seeking to rebuild sets and find cards they always wanted. At the same time, sophisticated grading services like PSA emerged, allowing collectors to ensure a card’s condition and authenticity. Kaline’s 1955 rookie quickly became the most valuable card from the entire set and one of the most coveted in the entire post-war era. In high grades, examples regularly traded hands for thousands of dollars, cementing its status as an icon.

The emergence of the internet and online auction sites in the 1990s brought greater accessibility to even the rarest cards, but also saw a boom in forgeries and counterfeits of high-value cards. PSA and other third-party authentication became an absolute necessity for Kaline’s rookie and other valuable 1950s cards. By the early 2000s, as the vintage card market peaked, a PSA-graded Gem Mint Kaline rookie was worth over $100,000. While the overall market has cooled since, it remains one of the most significant cards when it comes to tracing the evolution of the post-war hobby.

Beyond his iconic rookie, Kaline had other noteworthy cards as his career progressed. His 1956 Topps card, which featured a photo from his 1955 season, is the first to list his career stats and highlights his AL Batting Title that year. In the late 1950s and 1960s, Kaline was regularly featured in the flagship Topps sets in cards that depicted his excellence as a perennial All-Star and Gold Glover. Topps test series from 1959 and 1969 also gave collectors experimental parallel versions of Kaline that are now highly valuable variations.

Kaline played his entire 22-year career with the Tigers, demonstrating tremendous durability and consistency. He hit .297 over his career with 3,007 hits and 399 home runs, and was a 18-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner. After retiring following the 1974 season, Kaline joined the Tigers broadcast booth where he provided commentary into the 2010s. He was beloved for his grace and humility on and off the field. Kaline passed away in 2020 at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy as one of the classiest stars in baseball history.

For collectors, Kaline’s story and accomplishments are forever memorialized through his baseball cards. Few players have one card, their rookie, that is so iconic and represents the evolution of the entire hobby like Kaline’s 1955. But his entire card portfolio, from his rookie through his later career updates, capture the career of this Detroit icon. Over 65 years since its release, Kaline’s rookie maintains its mythical status and has become a touchpoint for the origins and growth of baseball card collecting itself.

BASEBALL CARDS EBAY LOT

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Buying baseball cards on eBay in lots can be a fun and cost-effective way to add to your collection or start a new one. There are some key things to understand when shopping for baseball card lots on the popular auction site. In this article, we will discuss what makes a good baseball card eBay lot, things to watch out for, tips for finding valuable cards, grading cards, and more.

When browsing baseball card lots on eBay, the first thing to pay attention to is the actual cards included in the lot. Reputable sellers will provide detailed photos of each and every card in the lot. Take the time to zoom in and inspect the condition and year of each card. Make sure you are actually interested in the players and teams included before bidding. It’s easy to get caught up in bidding just because a lot contains a large number of cards. But if they are mostly common cards of teams you don’t collect, you may end up disappointed.

The next thing to evaluate is the overall condition of the cards. Even lots labeled as “mixed condition” should not contain too many badly worn or damaged cards if you want chances of finding valuables. Heavily played cards with corners rounding off or edges fraying have little value to most collectors. Look for lots with cards that are at least in clearly readable condition even if not gem mint. Faded or discolored cards that cannot be identified should also be avoided.

Be wary of baseball card eBay lots that are not clearly photographed or just shown as a big pile. Reputable sellers take the time to capture detailed photos that allow you to inspect each card up close. Lots in a pile make it impossible to evaluate condition and contents properly. It’s also a red flag if photos are blurry or of poor quality, possibly hiding issues. Read the full item description carefully as well, looking for specifics on set years, players included, and overall condition of the cards.

When it comes to actual baseball card values, there are a few key players and years that can potentially be found in affordable lots. The 1952 Topps set is one of the most iconic in the hobby and cards like Mickey Mantle’s rookie are worth thousands in high grade. The late 1950s are also a hot time period when stars like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and more were featured on classic designs like Topps and Bowman. The late 1980s produced some of the most collectible rookie cards including Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Barry Bonds. And 1990s stars like Pedro Martinez, Chipper Jones, and Derek Jeter had popular rookies as well.

Of course, finding true gems in inexpensive lots is unlikely. But with some patience and luck, affordable lots can uncover valuable commons from the above eras or star rookie cards from the 2000s worth $20-50 even in played condition. And completing common sets from the 1950s-80s can be very satisfying for collectors. It’s important to have realistic expectations based on the price when bidding rather than expecting to strike gold.

Once cards arrive from an eBay lot, it’s a good idea to take some time to carefully examine each one under good lighting before committing to keeping the purchase. Make sure there were no hidden flaws or condition issues not evident in the listing photos. Reputable sellers will accept returns in this scenario, but it’s best to catch and address problems immediately. Grading the condition of each card using the standards of the Hobby Card Grading companies like PSA and BGS can also help you identify any potential gems in a scientific manner.

If you do uncover cards that appear to be in pristine mint condition, it may be worth considering getting them professionally graded and encapsulated to preserve quality and authenticate high grades. This adds value for trade or resale purposes down the line. Most common cards are not worth the cost of grading unless perhaps as part of a full set submission. Take the time to research population reports to see how a card in a certain grade compares to others already graded.

Buying baseball card lots on eBay can be a fun way to build a collection if done carefully. Stick to lots with clear photos showing each card, focus on desirable sets and players from the sport’s peak eras, manage expectations on values, and carefully inspect purchases upon arrival. With some diligence, finding hidden value to enjoy or resell is certainly possible in affordable group lots of America’s pastime on the largest trading platform. Have patience, focus on condition, and happy bidding!

2001 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 2001 baseball card season featured some rookie cards and memorable performances that have stood the test of time and retained respectable value in today’s market. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 2001 cards that are still worth a decent amount of money nearly 20 years later.

Perhaps the highest profile rookie card from 2001 is Ichiro Suzuki’s Bowman Chrome Refractor. Ichiro was already a 10-time All-Star and MVP in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league when he made his major league debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2001 at age 27. He would go on to win the AL Rookie of the Year and bat .350, setting a new MLB single-season hit record with 262 hits. Due to his instant superstardom and incredible skill, Ichiro’s rookie cards from 2001 are still quite valuable today. Near mint to mint condition Bowman Chrome Refractors in a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade have sold for over $1,000. PSA 9 Excellent-Mint copies have sold in the $400-500 range.

Another extremely valuable 2001 rookie card is Baltimore Orioles shortstop Miguel Tejada’s Bowman Chrome Refractor. Tejada had a stellar first MLB season, batting .310 with 34 home runs and 131 RBIs en route to winning the AL MVP award. High-grade Tejada rookies from Bowman Chrome continue to retain huge collector value. PSA 10 specimens have sold for over $800, with PSA 9s going for $250-350. Tejada went on to have a successful career, making six All-Star teams and winning another AL MVP in 2002.

Curt Schilling had one of the best seasons of his outstanding career in 2001 as the ace of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitching staff. Schilling went 22-6 with a stunning 2.98 ERA and 313 strikeouts to lead the D-Backs to a World Series championship over the Yankees. 2001 Fleer Ultra Curt Schilling base rookie cards in Near Mint-Mint condition have sold for over $100. 2001 Bowman’s Best Refractors and parallels of Schilling, showing him in a D-Backs uniform for the only time in his career, have reached $150-200 in PSA 10.

The rookie class of 2001 also featured Texas Rangers shortstop Alex Rodriguez. While A-Rod would not fully break out until his time with the Yankees, collectors recognized his future superstar potential early on. PSA 10 grades of his 2001 Bowman Chrome Refractor have sold for $600-800 in recent years. Near Mint PSA 9 copies can still fetch $200-300.

Several key rookies from the vaunted 2001 Draft class have maintained strong value over the years as well. Tampa Bay picked high school phenom Josh Hamilton first overall. Pristine PSA 10 Hamilton rookies from Donruss Elite Extra Edition sell in the $150-250 range today. University of Miami flamethrower Mark Prior went second to the Cubs and has PSA 10 2001 Bowman Chrome Refractors selling between $100-150. Seattle selected high school pitcher Adam Jones with the 37th pick. Jones enjoyed a long, productive career and his 2001 Bowman Chrome Refractor PSA 10s still sell for $70-100.

Among the stars who weren’t rookies in 2001 but put up huge seasons that year that are remembered, several older cards retain value. Barry Bonds smashed his single-season home run record with 73 dingers for the Giants. 2001 Topps Traded Barry Bonds cards in high grades sell for $80-120. While controversial due to alleged PED use, Bonds remains one of the game’s all-time great sluggers. Sammy Sosa also continued mashing homers for the Cubs in 2001, belting 64. Near Mint PSA 8 examples of his 2001 Topps Traded card still sell in the $50 range.

The 2001 season saw several iconic performances that spawned valuable game-used memorabilia as well. Arizona D-Backs Luis Gonzalez crushed a Game 7 walk-off hit off Mariano Rivera to win the World Series. Autographed Gonzalez 2001 World Series heroics cards featuring the famous home run snapshot image have sold for over $1000. Another Fall Classic gem, the monumental at-bat between Rivera and D-Backs batter Tony Womack resulting in a game-tying bloop single in the 9th inning of Game 7, spawned special 2001 Topps Stadium Club printing plate cards featuring the matchup that have sold for $400-600 over the past few years.

As impressive rookie seasons, Hall of Fame talents, epic postseason moments, and solid production by stars are what tend to retain long-term collector appeal for baseball cards, many key cards from the 2001 season featuring these attributes remain worthwhile investments nearly two decades later. While the boom years of the 1990s inflation may be behind us, strong Condition Census examples of the top 2001 rookie cards, stars, and memorable performances can still trade hands profitably for savvy collectors today.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PSA PRICE GUIDE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered to be one of the most iconic and valuable vintage card releases of all time. With 702 total cards in the base set and hundreds of stars featured, 1987 Topps remains an extremely popular vintage collecting category that still sees strong participation in the hobby market decades after its initial release.

When researching the value of individual 1987 Topps cards, the PSA Price Guide is one of the premier resources collectors turn to in order to understand estimated market values for graded examples across different pop report tiers. PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is the leading third-party authentication and grading service in the collectibles industry, and their price guides give collectors a standardized reference point for what top-graded specimens of certain cards may sell for based on historical auction data.

Some key things to know about using the PSA Price Guide for 1987 Topps values include:

PSA prices are just estimates – The guide gives a range indicating recent average sales for a certain graded card, but individual auctions can always come in above or below. Factors like pop report rarity, individual card condition, and current market demand all impact realized values.

Higher grades command more value – Generally speaking, the closer a card grades to PSA Gem Mint 10, the more desirable and valuable it becomes due to its superior preservation. Small grading adjustments can make a big difference price-wise.

Short prints are more valuable – Keys cards that were issued in extremely limited supply, known as short prints, tend to see much higher values versus their standard counterparts due to rarity aspects.

Rookie cards have premium – Debut or early career cards for all-time great players are always in high demand from collectors. Seeing a PSA 10 rookie of someone like Ken Griffey Jr. or Chipper Jones in 1987 Topps earns a massive premium.

Stars attract attention – household name players from the 1980s like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Roger Clemens will draw bids given their iconic status in the set. Higher grades of star cards can net five-figure prices.

To examine some specific 1987 Topps PSA price guide entries as examples, here is a closer look at the estimated values for several top-graded cards from the set:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (PSA 10): $6,000-$8,000 – One of the most desirable rookies in the entire hobby. Even PSA 9s can reach $3,000+.

Ozzie Smith (PSA 10): $1,500-$2,000 – A true gem-mint grade Hall of Famer card is highly conditioned.

Roger Clemens (PSA 10): $800-$1,000 – One of the top pitchers of the era. Can see $500+ in a PSA 9.

Bo Jackson Rookie (PSA 10): $500-$750 – Extremely rare and popular due to his MLB/NFL dual sport status.

Eric Davis Topps Traded (PSA 10): $450-$650 – Highly conditioned examples of this tough pulled parallel draw a premium.

Wally Joyner Rookie (PSA 9): $300-$450 – Strong values exist still for this Angels’ star rookie in top-tier grades.

Mark McGwire (PSA 10): $250-$350 – Big Mac held value for years, and a true mint copy is highly appealing.

Ryne Sandberg (PSA 10): $200-$300 – Hall of Fame second baseman who remains one of the flagship Cubs.

Turning our focus to some of the true short prints and variations that really separate themselves in the 1987 Topps checklist, here are a few highlights:

Donruss Winning Combinations (PSA 10): $2,000-up – Incredibly rare true 1/1 unique card variation combining Donruss designs with Topps.

Tiffany Reggie Jackson (PSA 10): $1,500-$2,000 – Ultra premium parallel issued on higher-end paper stock pulls big money.

Opening Day Wally Joyner (PSA 10): $1,000-$1,500 – Extremely tough pull at estimated odds of 1:7,200 packs.

Photo Variations: $500+ – Rarer posed shot variations in place of standard pose can spike values.

Box Bottom Pedro Guerrero (PSA 10): $400-$600 – Found adhered to the bottom inside flaps of unopened boxes at minuscule odds.

Postseason Stars Subset (PSA 9+): $250-$400 – Tough pulled 16-card annual parallel highlights heroes from prior year’s playoffs.

So whether collecting individual stars, All-Star rookies, or truly one-of-a-kind oddball variants, the 1987 Topps set maintains an extremely strong vintage market decades later. Using the PSA Price Guide is an excellent starting point for researchers to understand estimated values across the comprehensive checklist. With such a legendary release year and iconic designs/players featured, 1987 Topps will surely remain one of the crown jewels in the entire world of sports card collecting.

BEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS OF THE 80s

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The 1980s was a transformative decade for the baseball card industry. Major League Baseball players were beginning to sign lucrative contracts and star players were becoming household names. As interest in the sport grew, so too did the popularity of collecting baseball cards. For collectors looking to strike it rich, investing in top rookie cards from the 1980s offered a chance at finding future Hall of Famers. While it’s impossible to say which 1980s rookies would go on to have the most success, here are some of the most notable and valuable rookie cards from that memorable decade.

Dwight Gooden (Topps, 1984) – Arguably the biggest rookie card of the entire decade, Gooden’s 1984 Topps card is one of the true holy grails for collectors. As a 19-year old phenom for the New York Mets in 1984, Gooden went 17-9 with a 2.60 ERA and was awarded National League Rookie of the Year. He followed that up with an even more dominant 1985 season, winning both the Cy Young Award and pitching a no-hitter. Gooden’s potential seemed limitless and collectors rushed to get his iconic rookie card featuring his powerful windup. In gem mint condition, a 1984 Gooden rookie now fetches upwards of $10,000 due to his status as one of the best pitchers of the era.

Roger Clemens (Sportflix, 1984) – While Clemens had his official rookie card in 1986 Topps, the 1984 Sportflix card is considered his true rookie by collectors since it was his first major brand card released. Clemens made his MLB debut in 1984 for the Boston Red Sox and showed early flashes of his future dominance. The 1984 Sportflix card was only available through vending machines at the time for 25 cents, making it extremely tough to find in high grade today. A pristine Sportflix Clemens rookie in a PSA 10 gem mint grade can sell for over $10,000 due to his Hall of Fame career that included seven Cy Young Awards.

Barry Bonds (Topps, 1986) – Bonds exploded onto the scene in 1986 with 24 home runs and a Rookie of the Year award. His rookie card in the 1986 Topps set quickly became a must-have and remains one of the most iconic baseball cards ever printed. Bonds went on to shatter the single season home run record and win a record seven MVP awards. While his post-playing reputation has been tarnished, there’s no denying his on-field greatness. In high grade, the 1986 Topps Bonds rookie has sold at auction for over $30,000, an incredible return for a card purchased back in the late 80s for a few dollars.

Greg Maddux (Donruss, 1986) – Maddux didn’t put up gaudy stats as a rookie in 1986, but collectors could sense his incredible pitching talent and command. His first major brand card came in the 1986 Donruss set and showed Maddux ready to deliver a pitch with his unique three-quarter arm angle. Over the next two decades, Maddux established himself as one of the best control pitchers and smartest thinkers the game has ever seen. He won four Cy Young Awards between 1992-1995 and reached 300 career wins. High grade 1986 Donruss Maddux rookies now sell for $4,000-$6,000 based on his Hall of Fame career and the scarcity of the card in pristine condition.

Tom Glavine (Donruss, 1987) – Like Maddux, Glavine’s rookie season stats in 1987 didn’t jump off the page, but the lefty showed excellent control and pitchability from the start. His first major brand card is the coveted 1987 Donruss issue. Glavine became a star for the Atlanta Braves, winning two Cy Young Awards and pitching them to a 1995 World Series title. He ended his career with 305 wins, among the most all-time for a lefty. The 1987 Donruss Glavine rookie remains relatively affordable for a top 80s card at $800-$1,200 graded gem mint. But it captured the start of a surefire Hall of Fame career.

Mark McGwire (Topps, 1987) – McGwire made his debut late in 1987 and clubbed 49 home runs the following season to kick off one of the great power surges in baseball history. While his 1987 rookie season stats were modest, collectors saw his incredible raw power and physical stature. The 1987 Topps McGwire is one of the most iconic modern rookie cards ever made. Grading a perfect 10, it can bring over $20,000 at auction due to McGwire’s huge home run records and his place in the steroid era controversy. For McGwire fans, it’s a card that sparks memories of baseball’s golden age of power hitting.

Ken Griffey Jr. (Upper Deck, 1989) – Considered the greatest pure hitter of his generation, Griffey’s rookie card came from Upper Deck’s groundbreaking inaugural set in 1989. The card featured a crisp action shot of the young star already showing off impressive skills at just 19 years old. Griffey went on to smash 630 career home runs and win 10 consecutive Gold Gloves. He remains one of the most beloved players ever. High grade 1989 Upper Deck Griffey rookies have sold for over $100,000, a true rarity from the early days of the modern baseball card boom. It captures the start of one of the cleanest, most exciting careers in baseball history.

While cards of other 80s greats like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Nolan Ryan also hold value, the above selections stand out as the true elite rookie cards from that memorable decade. They gave collectors an early look at future superstars and Hall of Famers. For those who held onto their cards all these years, they provide a tangible link to the players’ early careers and a potential lucrative investment. The 1980s rookie crop shaped the baseball card market for decades to come.