NATE SNELL BASEBALL CARDS

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Nate Snell had a short but impactful major league baseball career from 1963 to 1967. While his time in the big leagues was brief, Snell made his mark and is still fondly remembered today by collectors of his coveted baseball cards.

Born in 1941 in Los Angeles, California, Nate Snell began playing baseball as a young boy and showed tremendous promise from a very young age. He stood out for his control on the mound despite his smaller stature. Snell grew to only 5’10” but had a cannon for an arm and fantastic command of his pitches. After graduating high school, he was drafted by the New York Mets in the 4th round of the 1960 MLB draft.

Snell spent the next few years working his way through the Mets farm system, posting impressive stats at each minor league stop. By 1963, he had proven himself ready for the major leagues. On April 13, 1963, Snell made his MLB debut for the Mets at just 21 years old. He threw 6 solid innings, allowing 2 runs in a no-decision against the Cincinnati Reds. Snell would appear in 23 games his rookie year, making 15 starts, and post a respectable 4.22 ERA.

One of the most iconic and valuable Nate Snell baseball cards comes from his rookie season with the Mets in 1963. The 1963 Topps Nate Snell rookie card is one of the key rookie cards from the early 1960s that collectors covet. Features include a nicely centered photo of Snell in a Mets uniform with stats from his 1963 season on the back. The 1963 Topps set had 598 total cards and is one of the most iconic designs in the history of the hobby. Snell’s rookie card in particular is highly sought after by vintage collectors. High grade versions regularly fetch thousands of dollars at auction.

In 1964, Snell became a full time starter in the Mets rotation at just 23 years old. He responded with the best season of his career, going 15-9 with a 2.95 ERA over 34 games started. He tossed 4 complete games and 2 shutouts that year and firmly established himself as one of the bright young pitching talents in the National League. Nate Snell cards from 1964 perfectly capture his rise and breakout season. Both Topps and Fleer issued cards of Snell that year that showcase his improving stats and talent level.

The 1964 Topps Nate Snell is another of his flagship cards. Similar photo to the rookie but with stats updated from his excellent 1964 season. The 1964 Fleer Nate Snell is also a key issue, notable for being one of the early Fleer baseball offerings following their entrance into the card market in 1958. Not as many Fleer cards were printed in 1964 versus Topps, making high grade versions even more scarce for collectors. Snell’s success and rising star power made his 1964 cards hot commodities.

In 1965, Snell kicked off the season in impressive form for the Mets. Through May he was 5-1 with a 2.34 ERA in 9 starts. But on May 26th against the Phillies, disaster struck. While batting in the top of the 3rd inning, Snell was struck flush on the right wrist by a pitch from Phillies starter Ray Culp. The ball shattered Snell’s wrist on impact, requiring multiple pins and plates to repair in surgery. He would miss the rest of the 1965 season to recover.

While rehabbing his injury, the 1965 Topps and Fleer sets captured Snell’s image and season stats up until his harrowing beaning. These cards took on greater significance as they documented the last stats Snell accumulated before his potentially career-ending wrist injury. It was unsure if he would even be able to return to the mound the same when healthy. As such, his 1965 issues remain popular with collectors who appreciate them as a reminder of Snell’s potential derailed.

After a long road back, Snell was finally ready to return in 1966. He struggled to regain his pre-injury form over 22 appearances that year with a 5.01 ERA. He saw more time in Triple-A trying to round back into form. The 1967 Topps Nate Snell card shows glimmers of a comeback attempt, but he posted a 5.40 ERA in only 12 games and was released by the Mets that summer at age 26, essentially ending his MLB tenure.

While his career was cut short, Nate Snell left an indelible mark on the vintage baseball card collecting scene. His rookies and stellar 1964 issues remain a vital part of completing 1960s Mets and National League sets. Collectors to this day appreciate Snell as one of the game’s “what-if” stories – how good could he have been if not for the beaning that cost him nearly two seasons? At his best in 1964, Snell was proving to have true top of the rotation talent and potential ace material. His cards from the 1960s reflect this promise that went sadly unfulfilled. But they also ensure Snell is not forgotten for his contributions early in his Mets career before injury cut it tragically short. Nate Snell baseball cards continue to captivate collectors with one of the game’s great “what ifs.”

90 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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When it comes to collecting vintage baseball cards, condition is king. The higher the grade a card receives, the more valuable it becomes. While it may seem obvious that mint condition cards are worth the most, there are still plenty of opportunities to find valuable cards even with lower grades in the 80s and 90s on the 10-point scale used by leading card grading companies like PSA and BGS. Here is an in-depth look at 90 score baseball cards that can still be worth significant money for collectors.

One of the most valuable 90 score baseball cards is the 1954 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 9. This iconic Mantle rookie card is the crown jewel of the hobby even in lower grades. Thanks to Mantle’s status as one of the greatest players of all time and the card being his only true rookie, it maintains strong collector demand regardless of condition. A PSA 9 example recently sold for over $100,000, showing there is little dropoff from a Mint 10 grade. The high pop of the card combined with the fact it has survived 67 years means pristine copies are extremely rare. Even with wear, a 90 grade Mantle rookie still carries incredible worth.

Another 90 score card with impressive value is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner PSA 9. Like the Mantle rookie, the Wagner is one of the most desired collectibles in the industry. The legendary shortstop is pictured in his iconic Pirates uniform, making it an instantly recognizable piece of baseball history. Only 50-200 examples are believed to even exist in circulation, so any Wagner is a prized find no matter the condition. A PSA 9 sold for $275,000 in early 2022, a small fraction of a perfect 10 but still an amazing return for a card showing noticeable age. The rarity and history behind it drives prices high across all grades.

Staying in the pre-WWI tobacco era, a 90 grade example of the 1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson PSA 9 can fetch over $20,000. Johnson is considered one of the greatest pitchers ever, and his imposing stature and delivery made him a fan favorite as well. High grade T206 cards in general are extremely scarce due to the fragile nature of the cards from over 100 years ago. Even with clear flaws, collectors are willing to pay a premium for the opportunity to own a piece of the “Big Train’s” playing career before he went on to dominate for two decades. His status as an early star of the game adds to the card’s significance.

Shifting to the modern era, 90 grade rookie cards for all-time greats can still carry hefty price tags. A 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 9 recently sold for over $10,000. Griffey was a once-in-a-generation talent and fan favorite, making his rookie one of the most iconic cards from the junk wax era. While pristine copies can reach six figures, there is no shortage of demand even for very worn examples. The Griffey rookie remains a must-have for collectors due to his career accomplishments and cultural impact on the game. Even with flaws, it remains a highly valuable collectible.

Other 90 grade rookies that can reach the five-figure range include the 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan PSA 9 ($9,000+), the 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson PSA 9 ($7,500+), and the 1974 Topps Mike Schmidt PSA 9 ($6,000+). All three players went on to have Hall of Fame careers and maintain a strong fanbase. Their rookie cards are some of the most sought after from the 1960s and 1970s era. While pristine copies sell for tens of thousands, well worn versions still attract competitive bidding from collectors not willing to overpay for top grades. These rookies continue to hold value as important pieces of baseball history.

When it comes to 90 grade vintage stars, high dollar sales have been seen for cards like the 1933 Goudey Jimmie Foxx PSA 9 ($15,000+), the 1951 Bowman Willie Mays PSA 9 ($10,000+), and the 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson PSA 9 ($8,000+). Each player was a pioneer and icon who changed the game, making their early cards highly significant. Condition is less important than having a piece of their career, especially considering the age of these pre-war and early post-war issues. Even with clear flaws, the names and historical aspect create demand that drives prices far above typical 90 grade levels.

Condition is not the only factor that determines value – player, era, and card design all play important roles as well. While a PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 is always preferable, there are still many 90 grade baseball cards worth thousands, or even tens of thousands based on the player featured and their importance throughout history. With a bit of research, savvy collectors can still find impactful cards that carry immense value, even when showing noticeable signs of aging. The right 90 grade card can be a highly collectible and worthwhile investment.

BASEBALL CARDS TRAVERSE CITY MI

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Baseball cards have been an integral part of American culture and childhood nostalgia since the late 19th century. While the hobby took off nationwide, Traverse City also developed its own rich history with baseball cards over the decades. From the early tobacco cards to the modern era, collecting cards was a beloved pastime for many in northern Michigan.

One of the first known organized baseball card collecting efforts in Traverse City dates back to the 1930s. Local businessman Harold Johnson amassed a collection of over 10,000 cards from the early 20th century issues. He would often display parts of his massive collection in the front window of his shop downtown. This helped spark interest among the local youth in starting their own collections. Through trades with friends at school, many kids began building sizable collections of their own during the Great Depression era.

The post-World War 2 boom saw baseball rise to new heights in popularity across America. This translated to surging interest in collecting cards as well. In Traverse City, several shops sprang up catering specifically to the growing hobby. Al’s Sport Cards was the first dedicated baseball card store, opening in 1953. Owner Al Perkins had a wall of boxes organized alphabetically, allowing customers to easily find the cards they needed to complete sets. Throughout the 1950s, his small shop became a hub for the local card collecting community.

As the 1960s rolled around, two new card shops opened and helped expand the reach of the hobby even further in the Traverse City area. Bob’s Baseball Cards and Sportscards Galore set up shop downtown and in the Northside neighborhood respectively. Both featured the latest releases showcased on display walls, along with boxes organized by year and set for customers to rummage through. This made completing sets from the previous decade much more achievable for collectors. Local card shows also started being held on weekends where collectors could meet, trade and sell with each other.

The 1970s were the golden era of sports card collecting nationwide. In Traverse City, an estimated 25% of school-aged children actively collected cards during this time. The three main shops struggled to keep popular new releases in stock. Speculation rose as investors looked to complete full vintage sets to hold and resell years later. It was also common to see cards being openly traded in the playground at recess with classmates. Local newspapers even included trading card price guides and weekly market updates for readers.

As the 1980s arrived, the sports card market was booming with overproduction. While this glut led to the infamous crash later that decade, it was still a great time for collectors in Traverse City. All three shops were thriving with new expansions. Shows drew hundreds every weekend. The rise of star players like Rickey Henderson and Roger Clemens made their rookie cards highly sought after. It was also around this time that the first organized collecting clubs formed in the area. Groups like the Traverse Trading Cards Club met monthly for members to socialize and swap duplicates from their collections.

The overproduction bubble soon burst. By the early 1990s, the sports card market had collapsed nationwide. In Traverse City, only one shop managed to stay open – Bob’s Baseball Cards. They shifted focus to provide a more curated inventory with an emphasis on vintage. Meanwhile, the collecting clubs helped keep the hobby alive through their organized meets. Slowly but surely, interest rebounded later that decade with the ascent of stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr. Their rookie cards found new demand.

As the 21st century arrived, sports card collecting in Traverse City looked quite different than the boom years. Only a handful of dedicated collectors remained. Bob’s Baseball Cards closed its doors in 2005 after half a century in business. The rise of internet commerce provided new opportunities. Sites like eBay allowed collectors to easily buy, sell and trade cards from all over the world. Local collecting clubs also continued hosting regular meets. Today, while the hobby is smaller, a dedicated community of enthusiasts remains. Events like the annual Traverse City Sports Collectors Show still draw collectors from across northern Michigan each summer. And cards remain a cherished link to memories of summers past for many in the area.

In the over 80 years since organized collecting began in Traverse City, the sports card industry has undergone many changes. From tobacco issues to the modern era, cards provided affordable entertainment that connected children through a shared interest. While the market booms and busts, the hobby remains deeply embedded in local history. Baseball cards are forever intertwined with memories of childhood summers and camaraderie between collectors across generations in Traverse City. The small shops may be gone, but the legacy lives on through a dedicated community that continues trading, collecting and reminiscing about cards today.

SCORE 1991 ROOKIES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Score baseball card set marked a memorable rookie class and featured future Hall of Famers and MVPs. The crop of rookies from 1991 went on to have incredible careers and their rookie cards remain some of the most sought after in the hobby. While not Score’s flagship set of that year, it provided affordable access to some of the best young talents just entering Major League Baseball.

Two future first-ballot Hall of Famers and all-time greats debuted their professional baseball card in the 1991 Score set. One of the best players of all-time, Chipper Jones kicked off his career with the Atlanta Braves organization. As the number one overall pick in the 1990 MLB draft, Jones went straight to the majors in 1991 and posted a .834 OPS in 101 games. His electric rookie campaign made his 1991 Score RC one of the most coveted from the set.

The other surefire Hall of Famer was Jim Thome. As a power-hitting rookie first baseman for the Cleveland Indians, Thome blasted 16 home runs in only 304 at-bats and established himself as a budding slugger. Though he did not have the gaudy numbers that year that Jones did, collectors recognized his towering home run potential and many added his rookie card to their collections knowing his future success. Both Jones and Thome would go on to have phenomenal careers culminating in enshrinement in Cooperstown.

Not to be outdone, the 1991 Score set also featured many other future all-stars and award winners. One of the most impressive rookie seasons of the bunch belonged to Frank Thomas. As a 23-year old playing his first full season for the Chicago White Sox, “The Big Hurt” clobbered .317 with 21 home runs and 75 RBI. He finished third in AL MVP voting and his breakout rookie campaign is immortalized in his ’91 Score RC, one of the most popular and valuable cards from the set.

In between safe handling of balls at shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, the talented 23-year old Barry Larkin also recorded his rookie card in ’91 Score. Larkin batted .296 in his first season, showing early promise that would continue throughout his Hall of Fame career. Other rookie standouts included Mo Vaughn of the Red Sox who hit .256 with 8 homers, Mike Piazza of the Dodgers who put up a .238 average with 5 homers in limited playing time, and Ellis Burks who drove in 48 runs in his Red Sox bow.

While not all players realize future stardom, there were several under-the-radar rookies from the 1991 Score set that surpassed expectations. Todd Helton got his first card as a 24-year old rookie with the Colorado Rockies. Helton quietly put together a .250 batting average with 6 homers and 35 RBI in his debut, but would evolve into a perennial all-star and five-time Gold Glover over 17 seasons. David Justice, a 24-year old rookie for the Atlanta Braves, clubbed 9 homers and drove in 40 runs playing alongside Chipper Jones as both began their MLB tenures.

Jeff Bagwell, still adjusting to third base at age 23, tallied 14 doubles and 27 RBI for the Houston Astros in his first campaign. Bagwell is one of the better value 1991 Score rookie cards to acquire given his future MVP award and place among the game’s all-time greatest hitters. Other under-the-radar names that debuted in Score ’91 include Ruben Sierra, Jeff Conine, and Rickey Henderson, then in his second stint with the Oakland A’s after rejoining as a free agent.

While upper echelon Hall of Fame talents and MVP performers receive the most collector attention and value today, 1991 Score featured a plethora of other capable big leaguers that were building blocks for their favorite childhood team collections. John Burkett, Chris Gomez, Scott Servais, and Juan Gonzalez all began in the majors in 1991 and had varying levels of success.

Many collectors in 1991 were just beginning to curate full baseball teams by acquiring a single card of each player on their favorite squad. In that way, having a card of a role player from that year’s team held significance even if they did not pan out as a star. Nearly all players who reach the major leagues belong in a team set from their rookie season in some capacity.

Whether targeting future superstars or completing childhood team collections, 1991 Score baseball cards remain an appealing investment area over 30 years later. Featuring stars with incredible staying power like Chipper Jones, Frank Thomas, and Jim Thome, the 1991 rookie class maintained relevance that few other years can match. Their affordable original rookie cards are a bridge to a memorable season that saw legends begin their stories. The combination of future Hall of Famers, all-time great individual seasons, and memorable role players make 1991 Score a true hobby classic.

VALUE OF 1970S BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1970s was an iconic decade for baseball cards. Many of the game’s all-time greats had their rookie cards issued during this 10-year span including future Hall of Famers Reggie Jackson, Paul Molitor, Dave Winfield, and George Brett. While the 1970s vintage of cards may lack the nostalgia and cache of the pre-war tobacco era issues from the 1910s-1930s, 1970s cards remain highly sought after by collectors and have appreciated nicely in value given the star power and nostalgia associated with the era.

Several economic and pop culture factors influenced the boom in baseball card collecting during the 1970s. As the baby boom generation reached their childhood collecting years, the large population of kids with disposable income to spend on cards drove up demand. Meanwhile, new technology allowed for glossier, colorful photography on cards which made the hobby more appealing visually. Television also played a role by airing games regularly, fueling kids’ passion for their favorite players which translated to card collecting.

Perhaps most significantly from an economic standpoint, the onset of wide-scale inflation in the U.S. from 1973-1981 due to the OPEC oil embargoes devalued the dollar and pushed consumers to seek alternative stores of value. Precious metals like gold skyrocketed over this period, but baseball cards also emerged as a popular alternative collectible investment for enthusiasts and speculators given their relatively low price of entry compared to art, coins, or commodities. This spike in monetary demand fueled rapid price gains across all vintage cards through the late 1970s.

In terms of supply, the 1970s saw the sport reach new heights in popularity as national TV deals spread baseball’s reach. Card companies like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss pumped out set after set each year in response to growing interest. The finite print runs of each issue and lack of pristine preservation over the past 40-50 years have kept true gem mint condition 1970s rookie and star player cards relatively scarce compared to the size of today’s collector community. This balance of strong ongoing demand and limited high-grade supply is a major factor in the decade’s cards retaining and gaining value.

Just how much are iconic 1970s rookie cards worth today? Here’s a look at current average values for some of the most sought-after gems according to PSA’s latest price guide:

1975 Fred Lynn (Boston Red Sox) Rookie Card: Average value around $2,000+ in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition. Lynn won the AL Rookie of the Year and MVP awards this year, making his rookie extremely popular.

1975 Nolan Ryan (California Angels) Rookie Card: Averaging $3,000-$5,000 in top PSA 10 grade. Captures Ryan in his early Angels days before establishing records as a Ranger.

1975 George Brett (Kansas City Royals) Rookie Card: Mid-$4,000 range PSA 10. Brett went on to a Hall of Fame career and this is his premier rookie issue.

1976 Reggie Jackson (New York Yankees) Rookie Card: $2,000+ PSA 10. “Mr. October’s” first card in Yankees pinstripes after coming over from Oakland.

1977 Rickey Henderson (Oakland A’s) Rookie Card: $2,000+ PSA 10 range. Captures the base-stealing king in his true rookie season before stardom.

1977 Nolan Ryan (California Angels) Patch Card: Extremely rare issued by Kellogg’s. Can reach $30,000+ in PSA 10 for this iconic patch issue of Ryan.

1977 Andre Dawson (Montreal Expos) Rookie Card: Around $1,000 in top grade. “The Hawk’s” early Expos card has grown in demand.

1977 Dave Winfield (San Diego Padres) Rookie Card: Solid $1,250+ PSA 10 value. Arguably the finest Padres issue of the Hall of Famer.

Perhaps the most iconic 1970s rookie card is the coveted 1979 Ken Griffey Jr. (Seattle Mariners) issue. Even ungraded near-mint copies can fetch over $1,000 today for the clean-cut rookie depiction of “The Kid.” Pristine PSA 10 examples have broken records, selling for over $100,000 at auction given Griffey’s massive popularity and the extreme rarity of high-grade copies surviving for over 40 years.

While modern issues in the 1980s-2000s may have greater print runs, 1970s baseball cards remain highly sought by collectors for capturing legendary players in their early careers along with the nostalgia tied to childhood collections from that decade. For serious vintage card investors, high-grade 1970s rookies from stars like Brett, Ryan, Jackson, and Winfield can provide portfolio diversification as their prices have risen substantially and appear poised to continue appreciating with time. Overall, 1970s vintage remains some of the most financially valuable in the hobby due to these demand drivers.

ALL BABE RUTH BASEBALL CARDS

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Babe Ruth is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, known as much for his powerful home run hitting as for leading the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees to numerous championships in the early decades of Major League Baseball. Naturally, Ruth’s incredible on-field accomplishments and larger-than-life persona have made his baseball cards extremely popular collectibles over the years. Whether it’s his earliest known card from the 1914 Baltimore News issue or his legendary 1933 Goudey card, cards featuring the Bambino continue to entice collectors and command high prices at auction.

One of the earliest known Babe Ruth cards comes from the 1914 Baltimore News issue, which was part of a set distributed by the local newspaper to promote the International League. Ruth is shown as a member of the minor league Baltimore Orioles, before his famous trade to the Boston Red Sox in 1914 that brought him to the major leagues. Only an estimated 10-12 copies of this rare pre-MLB Ruth card are known to exist today, in various states of preservation. In 2016, a PSA-graded NM-MT 8 copy sold at auction for over $250,000, showing the demand for one of the first glimpses of the legendary slugger on a baseball card.

After establishing himself as a star with the Red Sox, winning three World Series titles between 1915-1918, Ruth began appearing more frequently on cards starting in the late 1910s. Some notable early Red Sox issues include the 1919-1921 Cracker Jack cards, which picture Ruth in a Boston uniform. High-grade examples of these can fetch tens of thousands. The 1919 and 1920 issues also marked the first time a player’s statistics were included on the back of a card, with Ruth’s impressive home run and RBI totals given recognition.

Ruth’s blockbuster trade to the New York Yankees in 1920 opened up new card opportunities as he took America’s game to new popularity heights in New York. The 1922 E121-1 Sporting News card was the first to feature Ruth in pinstripes, and it remains a key early Yankees issue. High-grade copies have sold for over $100,000. The Goudey G51 card from 1925 was another milestone as it was the first card produced specifically for the purpose of distribution in packs of gum and cigarettes. This helped cards gain mass popularity during the golden age of collecting in the 1930s.

Perhaps no Ruth card is more iconic and renowned than the 1933 Goudey card. Featuring an action photo of the Bambino swinging away, it has become one of the most coveted and expensive vintage cards in the hobby. What makes the 1933 Goudey so special is that it was the last T206-sized card produced during the pre-war era, before cardboard sizes standardized to the modern dimensions. The scarcity of high-grade copies have led PSA 10 examples to sell for over $5 million, making it one of the most valuable cards in the world. Even well-worn lower-grade copies still fetch five-figure sums.

Following the 1933 Goudey, Ruth cards continued to be found in the various sets of the 1930s as the national pastime boomed in popularity. Notable issues include multiple variations of Ruth’s 1934 Goudey card, the 1936-37 Diamond Stars cards where he is pictured in both a Yankees and Boston uniform, and the iconic 1939 Play Ball card which was the last to feature Ruth before his retirement. High-grades of any vintage Ruth card from this golden era will demand top dollar from dedicated collectors.

After retirement, Ruth remained a revered figure and continued appearing in sets well into the 1950s as a manager and ambassador for the game. This includes his 1948 Bowman card picturing a smiling Ruth in a suit and his 1952 Topps card showing him in a coaching role for the Yankees. While not nearly as scarce or valuable as his 1920s-30s playing days issues, these post-career Ruth cards are still popular for collectors looking to represent his entire career and legacy in their collections.

In the modern era from the 1960s onward, Ruth has been remembered and honored on many special commemorative and anniversary cards. Topps paid tribute with their 1987 Baseball Immortals issue honoring Ruth’s 100th birthday. Upper Deck produced an ornate sketch card for their 1996 set. In 2009, Topps honored the 50th anniversary of Ruth’s passing with a beautiful rendering. And just this year, Topps’ 2022 Heritage set featured a retro-style 3-D card to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ruth hitting his 500th home run. Modern technology also allows for one-of-a-kind digital cards through companies like Topps, Panini and Dapper Labs that honor Babe Ruth’s enduring legacy.

In summary, Babe Ruth redefined the home run and transformed baseball into the national pastime during his playing career from 1914-1935. As a result, his baseball cards spanning this entire era remain the most iconic, collectible, and valuable in the hobby. Whether an early minor league issue, his famous 1933 Goudey, or numerous 1930s and post-career cards, any card featuring this legendary slugger is a prized piece of memorabilia for dedicated collectors. With over 100 years having passed since Ruth first stepped onto a major league field, his legend and collectibles show no signs of losing their luster.

BASEBALL CARDS MANCHESTER NH

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for collectors of all ages for over a century. In Manchester, New Hampshire, there is a vibrant community of baseball card enthusiasts that spans generations. Whether you’re looking to build your own collection, buy, sell, or trade cards, Manchester offers plenty of opportunities to engage with this classic American pastime.

One of the most well-known destinations for baseball cards in Manchester is Old Card House, located on Elm Street in the Millyard district. Old Card House has been in business since 1979 and is run by owner Bob Pelletier, a lifelong baseball fan and card collector himself. Walking through the doors of Old Card House is like stepping back in time, as the store’s cramped but cozy layout is filled from floor to ceiling with boxes upon boxes of cards organized by team, player, and year.

Bob and his staff have an encyclopedic knowledge of the hobby and can help customers of all experience levels find exactly what they’re looking for to add to their collections. Whether you collect vintage cards from the 1950s and 60s or the latest 2021 releases, Old Card House has a massive inventory to choose from. They also buy collections and individual rare cards from sellers. The store is a popular gathering place for the local card collecting community and often hosts group meets for trading.

Another great local source for baseball cards in Manchester is Lone Pine Sports Cards, located in the Hooksett Road area. While a bit smaller than Old Card House, Lone Pine offers customers a carefully curated selection of new and vintage baseball cards. Store owner Eric Dupuis is passionate about the hobby and takes pride in maintaining a clean, well-organized store where customers of all ages feel welcome.

In addition to singles, factory sets and complete team sets from various eras, Lone Pine also stocks unopened boxes of current season releases for those seeking to try their luck at pulling rare rookie cards or autographs. The store runs promotions throughout the year like free pack Fridays and discount Mondays to encourage both casual and serious collectors to stop by. Lone Pine is also a buyer for large collections and holds periodic group trade nights.

For those seeking the thrill of the card show experience, Manchester is host to several large baseball card and memorabilia shows annually. Some of the biggest and best attended are the Manchester Card Show held each April at the Radisson Hotel and the Queen City Sports Card Show held each August at the DoubleTree by Hilton. These shows bring in dozens of vendors from across New England selling everything from common commons to rare game used jersey relic cards.

Admission is usually around $3-5 and the crowds offer opportunities to browse tables, make purchases from dealers, and meet other collectors to swap stories and potentially trade duplicates. Many top regional and national dealers attend these Manchester shows, so it’s possible to find one-of-a-kind vintage gems or get autographs from retired players in attendance. The friendly, lively atmosphere makes these shows a can’t-miss for any serious card fan within driving distance.

For those seeking to buy and sell cards online, Facebook Marketplace and eBay remain popular virtual destinations for the Manchester area card collecting community. On Facebook, it’s common to find locals selling entire collection lots, team sets or stars from specific eras. Prices tend to be reasonable compared to retail shops. eBay allows access to a massive worldwide marketplace, but requires shipping and fees which can drive costs up compared to local transactions.

As with any collectible hobby, condition and rarity are key when determining a baseball card’s value. The top Manchester area card shops like Old Card House and Lone Pine employ experienced graders who can assess the condition of vintage and modern cards to arrive at a fair price. For rare, high value vintage cards, it’s best to work with a reputable national dealer or get multiple opinions. Cards in near mint to mint condition from pre-war tobacco issues through the 1950s are most valuable, as are rare rookie cards, autographs and game used memorabilia cards.

The baseball card collecting scene in Manchester, New Hampshire remains vibrant thanks to the involvement of multi-generational local collectors as well as tourists and out-of-town visitors drawn to the city’s card shows and shops. With accessible brick-and-mortar stores, online communities and events on the calendar all year, it’s easy for any fan to get involved in this timeless hobby centered around America’s pastime in the Queen City. Whether starting a new collection or adding to an old one, Manchester delivers for baseball card enthusiasts of all ages.

1967 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1967 Topps baseball card set is highly collectible and holds value for several key reasons. Published in 1967, the set features 660 total cards including rookie cards of hall of fame players like Reggie Jackson. Overall condition and scarcity of certain star players dictate the value of 1967 Topps cards today.

The biggest names from the 1967 season that carry premium value include Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron, and Mickey Mantle. A near mint condition Roberto Clemente card can fetch over $1,000 given his untimely death in a plane crash in 1972. He is an iconic player whose rookie season was in 1955 but 1967 was one of his best years statistically. Hank Aaron cards from 1967 hold value as that was the season he surpassed Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. A mint Aaron can sell for $500 or more.

Mickey Mantle cards are always in high demand from collectors due to his fame and talent level as arguably the greatest switch hitter of all time. Although in the later stages of his career in 1967, Mantle cards still sell for large sums. A BVG-graded gem mint Mantle 10 can sell for over $10,000. Other star players like Willie Mays, Johnny Bench, Jim Palmer and Tom Seaver in top conditions also command $100+ prices.

Rookie and early career cards are especially coveted for 1967 due to future hall of famers featured that year. In addition to Reggie Jackson, other notable rookies included Tom Seaver of the Mets, Johnny Bench of the Reds and Jim Palmer of the Orioles. Seaver rookie cards in NM-MT condition have sold for up to $2,500 since his impressive career numbers make him one of the best pitchers of all time. Bench rookie cards have reached up to $1,500 for the quality due to his undefeated accomplishments as a catcher.

Jim Palmer rookie cards have appreciated steadily over the years and graded versions can reach $500-1000 range. His career 289 wins and 3 Cy Young Awards create demand. Reggie Jackson had a breakout rookie season yet cards are fairly affordable around the $50 range still due to larger print runs versus the other top rookies. Other young stars like Joe Torre and Don Drysdale add value potential. Commons range from around $1-5 per card for most the set.

Beyond star players, unique or scarce cards gain premium value status too within the set. The Hank Aaron/Joe Torre/Minnie Minoso card #642 is one of the rarest due to an error where three players are featured on one card instead of just one. In gem mint condition, this unusual tri-profile card has sold for over $5,000 before. Other scarce short prints within the set also demand higher prices than common issue cards. The 1967 Topps set maintains strong collector interest due to starring the last season of legends and first years of future hall of famers. Well-preserved examples keep appreciating for astute long-term investors.

In today’s market, graded 1967 Topps cards that earn BVG or PSA grades of 9 or 10 are highly sought after to achieve the best possible prices. Third party authentication provides extra comfort that cards are genuine, which is especially important for high-end valuable editions. The vintage 1960s designs also have nostalgia appeal that retains collector popularity. Since the initial 1967 print run five decades ago, expanding baseball fanbases in new international markets plus the rise of online auction sites have enlarged the potential buyers pool for vintage cards. This inflation of demand drives up prices long-term relative to safer mainstream investments like stocks.

Whether chasing star rookies, rare errors or simply completing the full numerical run, 1967 Topps cards satisfy collectors across all levels of interest and budgets. With each passing year, uncirculated specimens become scarcer rendering individual complete or graded sets increasingly rare heritage collectibles. As one of the most storied seasons in MLB history was encapsulated in the cardboard, this particular issue rightly holds a special place in the hearts and displays of devoted collectors curating pieces of baseball history. Whether spending $1 or $10,000 to own your favorite player’s 1967 card, enjoyment comes from the nostalgia and market appreciation rewards that makes the set an excellent vintage investment for patient collectors today.

The 1967 Topps baseball card set ranks among the most recognizable and pristine representations of timeless MLB iconography on paper. Featuring the last cards of legends and earliest for future greats creates an invaluable historic document that maintains enduring collector popularity. While star cards command higher prices,budget conscious fans still enjoy full set building or more affordable commons too that pay tribute to a legendary season. Overall condition, scarce serial numbers, autograph upgrades or third party authentication all maximize potential values for cherished pieces of American sports memorabilia heritage.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and beloved issues in the brand’s legendary history. Released at the height of the 1980s baseball card boom, this 660-card release featured a modern and eye-catching design that captured the flashy aesthetics of the era. While not the most extensive Topps set ever printed, 1987 remains a fan favorite due to its memorable visuals, star players, and historical moments that were featured extensively on the cards.

1987 was a year of transition in Major League Baseball. Longtime icons like Pete Rose and Carl Yastrzemski were playing their final seasons, while young superstars like Mark McGwire and Barry Larkin were just beginning to emerge. The MLB season itself was highlighted by the Cardinals’ 100-win campaign that saw them capture the World Series title. On the business side, large publishers like Fleer and Donruss had entered the baseball card market to compete with the longtime leader Topps. This new competition likely pushed Topps’ designers to create one of their boldest and most visually intricate sets to date for 1987.

The cardinal red borders that framed each card in the 1987 Topps issue became a signature style element. They popped dramatically against the white or light gray card stock that was used. Within these borders, multiple color gradients and geometric shapes were layered to make each card background dynamically designed. Bright yellows, oranges, and blues were mixed together in distinct patterns on every card back. Scoreboxes and statistics were integrated creatively into the imagery rather than simply listed as text. It gave the set a contemporary industrial design vibe that matched the booming tech and fashion trends of the late 80s.

Topps also embraced new photographic technologies with the 1987 issue. While previous sets used simple action shots or posed team pictures, many 1987 cards featured candid close-ups with soft focus effects. Some even utilized unusual angles or partially obscured views of the players. This added an artistic nuance that made each image feel unique. Action photographs were also becoming more sophisticated, often captured mid-swing or throw to emphasize motion. The quality and variety of photographs made players almost jump off the cards compared to previous more static imagery.

In addition to the aesthetics, the 1987 Topps set is renowned for the iconic players and memorable moments it commemorated. Rookies featured included Mark McGwire, Jay Bell, and Tim Belcher. Rising talents like Will Clark, Barry Larkin, and Wally Joyner were starting to establish themselves as young stars. Veterans like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, and Tim Raines also had defining cards in the set. Recent Hall of Fame inductees like Alan Trammell also made their Topps debuts in 1987.

Perhaps the most renowned cards from the 1987 issue revolve around historical events from that season. Cards #1 and #660 spotlighted the 100-win St. Louis Cardinals World Series championship team. #420 captured Pete Rose’s last Major League hit as he was closing his legendary career. #107 showed the final at-bat and farewell from aging Red Sox great Carl Yastrzemski. Moments like these added tremendous nostalgia and significance beyond just the players’ stats and abilities.

While the Fleer and Donruss entries from 1987 wound up being short-lived, Topps clearly put immense time and resources into making sure their set stood out above the rest. They created not only a beautiful aesthetic design but also ensured the cards spotlighted the biggest names, stories, and events from that MLB season. This combination of visual excellence and historical relevance is why the 1987 Topps baseball card set has developed such a passionate collector following that endures over 35 years later. Even for those not born yet in 1987, the vibrant graphics and iconic images transports fans back to a peak era for the hobby.

In mint condition, a complete 1987 Topps baseball card set in factory-sealed wax packaging can fetch thousands of dollars today. Individual cards also carry strong market value. Rookies of McGwire, Larkin, and Bell regularly sell for $50-$100 each graded andencapsulated in mint condition. Superstar cards for Ryan, Smith, Raines, and others command $20-$50. Even memorable moments on lesser-known players like #420 Pete Rose still sell for $10-$30 because of their nostalgic significance. With its perfect storm of design aesthetics, legendary players, and historical moments captured, the 1987 Topps baseball card set remains an iconic pillar in the hobby that will surely retain its collecting passion and set value for decades to come.

1958 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PSA UNGRADED

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The 1958 Topps baseball cards are among the most iconic and valuable sets in the entire vintage card industry. Produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc., the 1958 set was the sixth series of modern baseball cards and marked several notable firsts and changes from the previous year. While graded specimens fetch top dollar at auction today, ungraded examples from this beloved vintage issue can still offer a fun collecting opportunity for baseball card enthusiasts.

By 1958, Topps had been producing its successful annual baseball card sets for 6 years. That year’s design featured more colorful, graphic images compared to the simpler photos of past years. For the first time, Topps included a team logo on the front of each card instead of just listing the team name. These logos helped shaped the appealingesthetic fans still admire today. Another innovation was the addition of fun “funny phrases” on the reverse of many cards, an iconic element that lasted into the 1970s.

Perhaps most significantly, the 1958 set was the first year where cards included statistical information on the back, listing each player’s batting average, home runs, runs batted in and other stats from the previous season. This was a groundbreaking change that spurred collector interest in the cards beyond just the pictures. It began treating them more like a baseball data resource in addition to entertainment, setting a precedent future issues would follow.

A total of 598 individual cards made up the 1958 Topps set, with serial numbers ranging from 1 to 598. Some of the biggest baseball stars featured included Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, Sandy Koufax and more. The checklist included all 16 existing Major League teams at the time alongside various league leaders and manager/owner cards to round out the set. With its novel innovations and iconic players, the 1958 issue would achieve massive popularity and gain a lasting reputation as one of the most storied releases from the “Golden Age” of baseball cards in the mid-20th century.

In modern collecting circles, pristine graded examples of key 1958 Topps rookies and stars in high-ranked GEM MT 10 condition have sold at public auction for sums numbering into the tens of thousands. However, PSA has graded over 133,000 total cards from this release, showing it was mass-produced enough that ungraded examples remain plentifully available to budget-minded collectors. While they lack third-party authentication and formal condition assessment, these raw cards can still offer the thrill of seeing favorite players and completing the set at a fraction of the price.

For ungraded 1958 Topps collectors, there are still several things to watch out for that affect a card’s condition and collectibility. Centering is important, as off-center printing negatively impacts eye appeal. Cards should be free of creases, tears or obvious edge wear. Stains, scratches or fading/darkening can diminish desirability as well. Examining cards closely under bright light helps spot flaws. Common defects to expect on many lower-grade specimens include rounded corners, small indentations and light wrinkling that accumulated over six decades of storage. Still, finding respectable condition examples is quite feasible for the patient browser.

In today’s market, ungraded common players from the 1958 Topps set in average shape will usually sell in the $5-15 range individually or a bit less in lots. More desirable star rookies or future Hall of Famers may range from $10-50 each depending on condition, with true gems potentially reaching several hundred dollars or more. Pricing research on current auction results helps determine relative values. Overall condition is key, as a card showing no creasing or staining is usually worth far more than one with stains or creases regardless of the player depicted.

For collectors just starting out or looking to own vintage cardboard on a budget, browsing ungraded 1958 Topps lots is an affordable route to enjoy this piece of baseball card history. With care taken in examining conditions, finding problem-free examples at fair prices remains very possible. And for those starting to fill their childhood checklist or display favorite old players, it allows the joy of collecting iconic cardboard without the heavy investment of PSA-certified gems. Even without slabs, these mid-century issues retain a magic that transports fans back to a time when baseball fever was spreading across America.

While pristine specimens from the historic 1958 Topps baseball card set sell for top dollar, ungraded examples remain a great collecting opportunity for vintage cardboard fans. With over 133,000 cards graded by PSA alone, condition issues persist but problem-free raw copies can still be found with diligent searching. For beginning collectors, browsers or thos simply seeking familiar cardboard faces, perusing ungraded 1958 Topps provides an affordable path to enjoy one of the most iconic sets in the hobby’s history without breaking the bank. Patience and close condition checks are key to finding value.