PRICE TO GET BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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Getting valuable baseball cards professionally graded has become enormously popular in recent decades. Third-party grading provides authentication, certification of condition, and an impartial assessment of factors like centering and corners that can significantly impact a card’s value. While grading offers numerous benefits, it also involves costs that card collectors need to consider carefully before submitting their cards.

The main professional grading services for baseball cards are PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC (Sportscard Guarantee Corporation). Each has its own procedures and pricing structures. Before sending any cards for grading, collectors should thoroughly research the qualities each service looks for in high-grade specimens of different card issues and designs. Factors like centering, edges, and surface can dramatically impact the numerical grade a card receives, making or breaking its potential worth.

Cost is obviously a major consideration for anyone contemplating grading. All three main services charge per-card submission fees, and pricing varies based on the turnaround time requested. PSA’s basic economy service runs around $10 per card with a 10-12 week estimated processing time. For $20 per card, their standard 30-day option is available. For $50 per card, cards can be back in as little as a week. BGS charges $15 per card for their regular service with a 90-day return estimate, or $30 for an express 25-day option. SGC lists per-card rates of $8 for their standard 90-120 day grade turnaround or $15 for an express grade expected in 30 days.

In addition to per-card fees, all companies charge submission packaging costs. Basic submission packages to send in small numbers of cards start around $15-20 per order. Larger bulk submissions in special boxes incur higher minimum submission costs that are often required regardless of package contents. Shipping to and from the grading company is also the responsibility of the submitter to arrange and pay for. Comprehensive insurance for declared card value during transit is strongly advised as well.

Once factoring in all costs, a basic PSA submission of 10 common baseball cards could easily run $150 or more after fees, shipping and insurance. Grading higher-end vintage cards or complete sets can obviously drive costs much higher still. The potential increased value from third-party certification needs to be weighed against grading expenses on a per-card basis. For cards worth under $50 raw, grading may not provide sufficient return on investment given costs. Higher-value specimens are where third-party authentication can unlock the most added worth.

Along with costs, turnaround times are another consideration. While express options get cards back fastest, waiting periods of 3-6 months or longer are common even for basic economy submissions during peak grading seasons. Backlogs and service suspensions related to events like the COVID-19 pandemic can further extend estimated wait times. Collectors need to plan accordingly based on estimated grading periods and factor in potential delays when submitting cards they’ll want relatively soon for events like shows or auctions.

Quality control is also an issue, as no grading service is perfect. While standards are intended to be impartial, subjective elements still come into play and different graders may not always agree on close calls. Reconsideration requests to re-examine a card’s assigned grade typically incur additional fees as well. Damage or loss during transit is also a remote but real risk collectors take on by sending valuable cards away, even with insurance in place.

With proper research and expectations set for costs, wait times, and uncertainties, third-party grading can absolutely add value for the right baseball cards. Higher-end specimens like rare vintage stars, unique error variants, or complete vintage sets have the most potential to realize multiples more in worth with a respected certification and numerical grade. But for more common issues, the expenses may outweigh benefits. Careful cost-benefit analysis of individual cards is required to determine if submitting them for professional grading makes financial sense.

In the rapidly growing collectibles marketplace, third-party authentication remains crucial for establishing condition and worth baseline expectations demanded by serious investors and consignors. The major grading services continue refining procedures to quality control subjective assessments at scale. With proper planning factored for costs, timelines, risk, and an understanding of what each service considers for top numerical grades, professional grading maximizes the value realized from prized collectibles – provided the right cards are selected. For valuable specimens aimed for long-term preservation and investment, the costs are often worth it.

USA BASEBALL CARDS

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The history of United States baseball cards spans over 130 years since the late 19th century. Much like the game of baseball itself, collecting baseball cards has evolved into an American pastime enjoyed by both casual fans and serious collectors. Some of the earliest baseball cards produced in the USA were included in sets issued by tobacco companies as premiums or advertising inserts starting in the 1880s.

In 1887, the American Tobacco Company produced cigarettes with illustrations of baseball players on the trading cards included in the packs. These sought-after cards kicked off the baseball card collecting craze that has endured for generations. Some of the players featured on these pioneering tobacco era cards included future Hall of Famers Pud Galvin and Jimmy Galvin. Over the next few decades, nearly all major cigarette and chewing tobacco brands issued baseball card sets as part of their marketing.

Brands like Fatima, Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce, and Moe Leiber Cigars produced some of the most collectible early baseball cards. They were typically printed on a very thin cardboard stock that has led many vintage specimens to deteriorate significantly over time. PSA/DNA authentication and high-grade examples of tobacco era cards from the late 1800s and early 1900s can fetch hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars at auction today due to their rarity and historical significance.

In 1909, the American Tobacco Company hired former major leaguer and manager Billy Murray to edit and produce the iconic T206 tobacco brand set. Featuring detailed body shot photos of stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson and Honus Wagner, the T206 set became one of the most famous issues in card history. The ultra-rare 1913 Honus Wagner example in this set commands record auction prices, with one PSA NM-MT 8 copy selling for $3.12 million in 2016.

The rise of bubble gum in the early 20th century fueled another boom in premium baseball cards inserted into packages. In 1933, Goudey Gum Company issued their famous card set featuring colorful painted portraits of players like Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx. The 1938 Play Ball gum brand also had a seminal issue. But the modern baseball card collecting craze truly started in 1952 when the Topps Chewing Gum Company signed an exclusive deal with major league players and teams to produce annual sets.

Topps released highly anticipated complete new sets each year from 1952 onward, featuring colorful photos and short write-ups on the biggest stars of the day. Their straightforward design approach focused on the players themselves and created and defined the template that is still followed in today’s licensed sports card releases. Upper Deck, Score, Fleer and other brands later emerged to challenge Topps’ monopoly, creating competition that drove innovation and quality higher.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, as baseball exploded in popularity along with the post-World War II economic boom, collecting cards became a ubiquitous activity for children across the United States. Almost every boy could be found trading and adding to his collection in schoolyards, at local candy stores, or through group exchanges by mail. Stars like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Sandy Koufax achieved almost as much fame through their mass-produced cardboard likenesses as their exploits on the diamond.

The 1970s saw increased specialization with the introduction of traded sets featuring only players from a single team, league leaders, rookie and Stars of the Game issues, commemorative anniversary products and high-gloss finishes. New authentication/grading services like the PSA/DNA standard also emerged to protect collectors and assess value more objectively. The increased rarity of specimen cards unearthed from early 20th century tobacco wrappers became avidly pursued.

In the 1980s and 1990s, wider mass marketing and greater direct exposure to players through cable television kept collectors engaged from children to adults. Insert cards featuring valuable autographs, patches or serial numbers were introduced. During this period, Mickey Mantle’s 1952 Topps rookie card achieved the status as the “Mona Lisa” of the collecting world, with a pristine PSA/DNA 10 grade specimen fetching over $100,000 at a 1990 New York auction.

As recently as the late 1990s and early 2000s, increased direct sales from the manufacturers to limited window collectors and speculative boom environments drove card values to new highs. Stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Alex Rodriguez saw some of their earliest cards appreciate exponentially based on future anticipation. Like other speculative bubbles it was followed by a bust as prices began to decline in the oversupplied marketplace.

America’s baseball card collecting culture still thrives, focused more on appreciation of the historically significant vintage and modern relic cards needed to complete an oddball player collection. The athletic exploits of recent stars like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani engage new generations. With protective social media and grading services, the hobby remains a time capsule not just of America’s pastime but also of marketing history intersecting with vernacular art featuring its sports legends.

1996 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1996 Fleer baseball card set has produced several valuable and collectible cards over the years that are worth significant money for collectors. The 1996 Fleer set featured a variety of stars from the mid-1990s as well baseball legends in their rookie cards. Let’s take a look at some of the top 1996 Fleer baseball cards that can hold solid value for collectors.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1996 Fleer set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already an established star by 1996 but his rookie card remained in high demand. With his sweet left-handed swing and effortless athleticism in center field, Griffey was already beloved by fans. His rookie card from the Upper Deck set in 1989 is one of the most iconic in the history of the sport. But his rookie card from the 1996 Fleer set also retains strong collector interest. In gem mint condition, a Griffey Jr. 1996 Fleer rookie card can sell for well over $1000. Even in good condition, it is likely worth a few hundred dollars.

Another legendary rookie card worth noting from the 1996 Fleer set is Derek Jeter’s. As the Captain and face of the Yankees dynasty for two decades, Jeter is assured a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame someday. His rookie cards have always held high value and the 1996 Fleer version is no exception. In top near-mint or gem mint condition, you could expect to fetch $800-1500 for a Jeter rookie depending on the exact grade. Like Griffey, it remains highly sought after by collectors even 25 years later.

Staying with Yankees, the 1996 Fleer set included the rookie card of a player who would become one of the game’s all-time home run kings – Bernie Williams. A gifted five-tool player and star center fielder, Williams slugged over 300 home runs for New York in a stellar career. His rookie card doesn’t quite carry the same stratospheric prices as Jeter or Griffey but it still has notable value, fetching $150-300 in top condition.

Beyond rookie cards of future stars, the 1996 Fleer set featured several talented players who were already established names by then. One such card is Ken Caminiti’s. In 1996, Caminiti was coming off winning the NL MVP award the previous season while leading the Houston Astros. He also won a World Series title that year. His 1996 Fleer card usually sells for $30-75 depending on condition, with the more expensive price tag going to pristine, graded gems.

Another star third baseman featured was Chipper Jones, who was just beginning to emerge as a perennial All-Star for the Atlanta Braves. By 1996, Jones had two 100 RBI seasons under his belt and would go on to a Hall of Fame career. High-grade copies of his 1996 Fleer card can reach $75-150 depending on buyer interest. As one of the best right-handed hitters of his generation, Jones cards from the mid-90s hold appeal.

For Pittsburgh Pirates fans, the 1996 Fleer set included one of their franchise icons – Barry Bonds. In his playing days with the Pirates and then Giants, Bonds ascended to being perhaps the greatest pure hitter in baseball history. His 1996 Fleer card captured him during his walk year with the Bucs before leaving in free agency. Near-mint to gem mint examples can sell between $40-100. Bonds remains a polarizing figure but his talent can’t be denied.

Beyond star position players, the 1996 Fleer set also highlighted top pitchers of the era. For example, Greg Maddux’s card is quite valuable in top condition. As one of the best control artists and most cerebral hurlers ever, Maddux was a huge sensation in the 1990s. His 1996 Fleer card reaches $80-150 price range when fresh and flawless. Atlanta Braves fans enjoyed his dominance for many years.

Another ace pitcher whose card brings healthy returns is John Smoltz. One of the greatest power pitchers alongside his pinpoint control, Smoltz terrorized hitters throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. His 1996 Fleer card finds buyers willing to spend $60-150 based on demand and condition grading scale. With over 200 career wins and 150 saves, Smoltz made history as an elite starter and closer.

While not quite reaching the allure and profit potential of the premier 1989 Fleer set, the 1996 Fleer baseball card collection nevertheless features investments that can pay dividends for collectors today. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Jeter and Chipper Jones drive the strongest current values. But stars cards of talent in their primes like Maddux, Smoltz and Caminiti also carry worthwhile secondary market prices. For fans of the great players and teams of the 1996 season, this Fleer production remains a treasured part of baseball card history. With care and the right grade, it can grow in monetary worth too.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS IN 1977

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The year 1977 saw some truly iconic baseball cards released that have gone on to become extremely valuable today. While cardboard superstars like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays had already established themselves as legendary figures collecting baseball cards, 1977 introduced new stars and key rookie cards that have stood the test of time. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable and valuable 1977 baseball cards over 45 years later.

Perhaps the single most valuable baseball card from 1977 is the monstrously rare Mike Schmidt rookie card. Schmidt would go on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Philadelphia Phillies, winning 10 Gold Gloves and 3 MVP awards. His rookie card was only available in the high-numbered series two portion of the 1977 Topps set. Due to low print runs and uneven distribution to packs at the time, the Schmidt rookie is one of the true unicorns in the hobby. In pristine mint condition, unmatched examples have sold at auction for over $250,000, making it arguably the most valuable baseball card of all time adjusted for inflation.

Another exceptionally rare and desirable 1977 rookie card is that of Hall of Famer Andre Dawson, known as “The Hawk” during his career. Dawson’s cardboard debut was in the 1977 Topps Traded set, a special series that saw limited distribution. In a near-perfect gem mint 10 grade, Dawson’s rookie has also cracked the $200,000 mark at auction. Like Schmidt, Dawson went on to have a storied career primarily with the Montreal Expos and Chicago Cubs. His Hall of Fame induction and the scarcity of his rookie card combine to make it a true blue-chip investment grade baseball card.

Staying in the realm of legendary rookies, the 1977 Topps card of Hall of Famer Eddie Murray is also hugely valuable today. Murray enjoyed a storied 21-year career launching over 500 home runs primarily as a Baltimore Oriole and Los Angeles Dodger. It was his rookie season with the Orioles in 1977 that was memorialized in his Topps issue that year. High-grade examples in a PSA 10 gem mint state have reached upwards of $50,000 at auction. Murray was a first-ballot Hall of Famer and his talent was evident from the very start, creating great nostalgia surrounding his rookie card.

Nolan Ryan’s mythical pitching career is commemorated in his 1977 Topps card as well, though not technically a rookie edition since he had already been in the major leagues for over a decade. However, Ryan’s 1977 issue shows him with his new team, the California Angels, and captures one of the peak eras of his legendary career. Pristine PSA 10 copies in this key Ryan issue have reached over $15,000. His no-hitter totals, record strikeouts, and Hall of Fame induction make any Ryan card a soundinvestment, especially from his California Angels period in the late 1970s.

Staying on the theme of future Hall of Fame pitchers, the 1977 Topps card of Phil Niekro is also a strong performer today. Though nearing the latter stages of his amazing 24-year career launched mostly with the Atlanta Braves, Niekro’s knuckleball prowess was in full effect in 1977 with the Braves and Yankees. High-grade versions of his ’77 Topps issue routinely top $10,000. As one of just two pitchers in baseball history to win 300 career games, collectors love commemorating Niekro’s place in history.

A true dark horse among 1977 rookie cards is that of Hall of Famer Robin Yount from the Milwaukee Brewers. Yount played his entire decorated 20-year career with the Brewers and was a key part of Milwaukee’s World Series championship team in 1982. But it was his wide-eyed rookie season captured in his 1977 Topps card that started it all. In PSA 10 condition, this perhaps lesser-known rookie has still reached over $6,000 at auction in recent years. Yount’s excellence and loyalty to one franchise made him a fan favorite that collectors remember fondly.

Lastly, the 1977 Topps issue of Reggie Jackson remains a steadfast favorite. As a member of the New York Yankees’ dynasty teams, “Mr. October” produced some of the most legendary postseason home run moments of all time. His ’77 card wearing Yankee pinstripes in the midst of that period has value upwards of $4,000 in top grades. Though not technically a rookie card, Jackson’s iconic Yankee image from this period has cemented its place among the SETS most prized 1970s issues.

The stars, rookies, and key players featured in the 1977 Topps set established cards that have proven to stand the test of time. From the unfathomable rarity of Mike Schmidt’s rookie to legendary icons like Nolan Ryan and Reggie Jackson, these cardboard issues immerse collectors in the golden era of 1970s baseball that still resonates tremendously today. Grading and preservation has unlocked new value in 1977 that makes it one of the most important vintage release years for savvy sports card investors.

1987 BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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The 1987 baseball card set holds quite a few gems that can be worth significant money depending on the player, card number, and condition. The 1980s were the golden era of baseball cards when production numbers were high but interest and demand remained strong. Let’s take a look at some of the top 1987 baseball cards that old-time collectors are seeking out and are still bringing hefty prices at auction today over 30 years later.

One of the most coveted and valuable 1987 cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was one of the most hyped young prospects to enter Major League Baseball in decades and “The Kid” lived up to expectations with a stellar career. His rookie card from the 1987 Topps set is the true Holy Grail card from that year. In near-mint to mint condition, Griffey rookie cards have sold for over $400 at auction. Higher graded versions in the PSA 9-10 range can sell for thousands of dollars. Even well-worn copies still fetch over $100 due to enduring interest in Griffey’s rookie season.

Another highly sought after rookie card is Mark McGwire from the 1987 Topps set. Like Griffey, McGwire’s raw power potential was apparent from an early age and he went on to smash the single-season home run record. PSA 9-10 graded versions of his rookie sell in the $400-600 range. Even lower graded copies still sell for $100-300 depending on condition details. McGwire is forever etched in baseball history and collectors are still eager to add his rookie to their collections.

While not rookies, some veteran star cards from 1987 hold immense value as well. One of those is the Frank Thomas rookie star card from 1987 Topps. Thomas would not officially debut until 1990 but he was already making waves in the minors in 1987. His rookie star card sells for around $200-300 in top condition. Another veteran pickup is the Nolan Ryan card from 1987 Topps. Ryan was already a living legend by 1987 after piling up milestones but collectors still love his cards from the era. A PSA 9 Nolan Ryan fetches around $150-200.

Moving over to 1987 Donruss set, the main rookie draws are Ben McDonald and Barry Larkin. McDonald was a highly-touted Orioles pitching prospect who showed promise during his career. A PSA 10 McDonald rookie recently sold for $400. Larkin on the other hand became a future Hall of Famer and his impeccable skill was on display from the start. High-graded Larkin rookies sell consistently in the $300-500 range. Another star performer was Bo Jackson, who was already making waves in football too before his short but electric MLB career. A PSA 10 Bo Jackson rookie from 1987 Donruss sold for $625 in early 2021.

Condition is king when it comes to maximizing the value of any card from the 1980s era. Yet even in lower grades, certain star players from 1987 still command prices well above the average due to enduring popularity. For example, a PSA 5 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie recently sold for $240 while a PSA 5 Mark McGwire went for $130. Of course, mid-range graded versions in the PSA 6-8 range sell proportionately higher, usually landing in the $150-300 range depending on card centering, corners and edges.

The 1987 Topps Traded set also has a few gems including rookie cards. One is the PSA 10 graded version of Ellis Burks rookie that is routinely worth $150-200. Even lesser condition Burks rookies sell for over $75. Another rising star was Lenny Dykstra who became a fan favorite during his career. His 1987 Topps Traded rookie in PSA 10 grade has sold for as much as $350 in recent auctions. The set also featured rookie call-ups for Ruben Sierra ($100 PSA 10), Devon White ($150 PSA 10) and Scott Cooper who wasn’t a star but the card still holds value in top grades.

Overall condition is extremely important when considering the values from over 30 years ago. PSA and BGS slabs with grades of 9-10 exponentially increase worth but even lesser grades retain appeal and value due to the star power of certain players. Storage matters too as cards kept in attics and basements tend to show more wear over time versus those placed carefully in binders. But regardless of condition details, securing a Griffey, McGwire, Bo Jackson or an underrated star like Ellis Burks rookie still proves a worthwhile addition to any collection from the bountiful 1987 card year. Prices remain high and interest stays strong for these ’80s cardboard icons.

The 1987 baseball card season has provided collectors with many valuable and sought after pieces of cardboard over the decades. Rookie sensations like Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire obviously top the chart due to their all-time careers. But others like Bo Jackson and Ellis Burks also hold lasting appeal. Factor in star veterans and comeback players too which add notable value depending on grading scale. Condition is critical but even well-loved, worn copies still retain monetary worth. For nostalgia and investment purposes, prominent 1987 rookies and stars deserve a home in any vintage collection.

MOST EXPENSIVE 2022 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Bowman baseball card release featured some of the top prospects in the sport and several cards have already become highly valuable on the resale market. While it’s still early in the careers of these young players, their prospect status and future upside has driven collectors to pay top dollar for their prized rookie cards. Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive 2022 Bowman baseball cards that have changed hands so far.

Khalil Watson – One of the top shortstop prospects in baseball, Khalil Watson was selected 16th overall by the Colorado Rockies in the 2021 MLB Draft. His athleticism and elite defensive tools make him a potential future star. Watson’s prized rookie card from 2022 Bowman is the Yellow /150 parallel, with a BGS Gem Mint 10 grade having recently sold on eBay for $3,500, making it the most valuable card from the set at this point. Additional PSA 10 and BGS 9.5 examples of this parallel have also topped $1,000.

Druw Jones – As the son of five-time All-Star Andruw Jones, Druw entered the 2022 draft with huge expectations and lived up to the hype by being selected second overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The center fielder showed impressive all-around tools and his autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman’s Best recently sold for $2,800. PSA 10 versions of his base 2022 Bowman rookie have also surpassed $1,000.

Termarr Johnson – A switch-hitting shortstop with impressive power potential, Termarr Johnson heard his name called 29th overall by the Cubs in the 2022 draft. Known for his mature approach at the plate and exciting tools, Johnson’s autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman’s Best sold for $2,300. His base 2022 Bowman rookie in a PSA 10 grade changed hands for $1,200 as well.

Brooks Lee – The son of former big leaguer Gary Lee, shortstop Brooks Lee lived up to first round hype by being selected eighth overall by the Minnesota Twins in 2022. With slick defense and a line drive swing that produces consistent contact, Lee’s autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman sold for $2,000 on eBay. His base Bowman rookie in a PSA 10 grade has also topped $1,000 in private sales.

Elijah Green – Considered a potential five-tool star when healthy, Elijah Green fell to the Twins at 17th overall due to injury concerns. His huge long-term upside is evident and collectors have taken notice – his autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman sold for $1,800. A BGS 9.5 quality example of his base rookie card changed hands for $950 as well.

Brock Porter – Projected as a potential frontline starter, high school righty Brock Porter slipped due to signability concerns but was still selected third overall by the Rangers. His control and three potential above average pitches make him an intriguing arm. Porter’s top 2022 Bowman card is the Refractor parallel, with a BGS 9.5 example bringing $1,600 at auction.

Jackson Holliday – The son of seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday, Jackson lived up to his bloodlines by being taken first overall by the Orioles in 2022. A left-handed hitter with polished hitting skills and speed, Holliday’s autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman’s Best sold for $1,500. His base 2022 Bowman rookie in a PSA 10 holder has also surpassed $1,000.

Daniel Susac – A catcher with power potential, Daniel Susac was a third round selection by the Athletics in 2022. Collectors are high on his offensive upside behind the plate and a BGS 9.5 quality example of his base 2022 Bowman rookie changed hands privately for $1,400.

Cam Collier – A third baseman with significant raw power, Cam Collier intrigued scouts enough to be selected 18th overall by the Reds this year. While still developing, the tools are evident. An autographed rookie card from 2022 Bowman sold for $1,300.

Robby Snelling – A college starter out of Wake Forest, righty Robby Snelling drew Cardinals interest and was their third round pick in 2022. With a big fastball and polished arsenal, Snelling could move quickly. An on-card autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman changed hands for $1,200.

Jace Jung – The younger brother of Rangers infielder Josh Jung, Jace also has upside with the bat. Selected 42nd overall by the Padres in 2022, a BGS 9.5 quality example of Jung’s base rookie card from 2022 Bowman sold privately for $1,100.

Blake Tidwell – A power righty out of high school, Blake Tidwell’s three plus pitches made him an attractive option for the Phillies in the third round in 2022. His future role as a starter could be solidified with development. An autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman earned $1,100 at auction.

Carson Whisenhunt – A polished college lefty taken 80th overall by the Yankees this year, Carson Whisenhunt brings three above average pitches and pitching IQ. An on-card autographed rookie from 2022 Bowman was paid $1,100 by a collector.

While the careers and true values of these prospects remain unknown, their draft status, tools, and upside has fueled investment in their rookie cards at the earliest stages. With continued development and progression, some could emerge as superstars – and their prized 2022 Bowman cards would stand to gain even more value retrospectively as a result. It will be interesting to see how these prospects pan out, and how the prices of these early cards fluctuate over the coming years as a result.

1993 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 1993 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and popular issues of all time. It marked several notable milestones in baseball card history while also featuring some of the game’s biggest stars from that era. Let’s take a deeper look at the 1993 Topps checklist and some of the key details collectors should know about this highly regarded release.

The 1993 Topps set was the first printed entirely on wooden boards rather than paper or stiff cardboard. This made for a thicker, more durable card that held up better to the rigors of being shuffled, sorted, and stored in collections over the years. The wood grain texture on the front also gave the cards a distinctive vintage feel that collectors loved. The borders and design elements had a clean, retro style inspired by 1960s cards but with sharper colors and images suited to 1990s technology.

The base set totaled an even 700 cards as was typical for Topps flagship issues at the time. Roster updates and late season call-ups were included in the base checklist as well. Notable rookies included Derek Jeter, Jason Giambi, David Eckstein, Jermaine Dye, and Darren Dreifort. Veteran stars like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, and Roberto Alomar all had iconic base cards as well.

Several exciting parallel and specialty subsets also broke new ground for the era. For the first time, Topps included its “Photo variations” concept with 15 additional short printed cards featuring alternate images of the same players as their base counterparts. A new “Traded” subset highlighted 22 players who changed teams via trade during or after the 1992 season as well. 1992 Gold Glove and Silver Slugger award winners were recognized in their own short printed subsets.

One of the biggest innovations and most sought-after cards in the 1993 set were the now-legendary “Finest Refractors”. Only 15 such cards were inserted into random packs and featured super-high gloss photo exposures of stars like Bonds, Griffey, Ripken, and Maddux. Their extreme rarity, beautiful design, and status as one of the earliest mainstream baseball refractors make them highly coveted by enthusiasts to this day. Meanwhile, the traditional “Traded” and “Draft Picks” inserts added diversity for collectors to chase as well.

While it marked several firsts for Topps, 1993 also paid homage to decades past with a couple nods to baseball card history. A 24-card “Turn Back The Clock” subset featured retro-style designs and photo exposures of today’s players meant to mimic the look of the 1930s-1950s. Rare “Record Breakers” parallels celebrated different career milestones being achieved that same season, such as Don Mattingly’s ascent up the all-time hits lists.

In terms of chase cards outside the base set, serially numbered parallels like the “Gold” (1/100), “Silver” (1/250), and “Bronze” (1/500) versions of selected cards added prestigious variants for collectors. The coveted “Upper Deck Short Prints” subset had an extremely low print run of only 28 cards focused on stars and were virtually impossible to pull from packs. A “Green Shimmer” parallel commemorated the league leaders and award winners but had only a tiny quantity inserted as well.

When all was said and done, the 1993 Topps baseball card set cemented its legacy as not just the biggest and best of that year but as a benchmark achievement that pushed the entire collecting hobby forward. From its innovative materials and parallel subsets to the dazzling rookie classes and star power throughout, it had something for enthusiasts of all ages and interests nearly three decades later. While inflation and condition issues have driven up its price in the secondary market in recent years, 1993 Topps remains an iconic and historic release that any true collector aims to understand and experience. Its widespread influence can still be seen in checklist and design elements utilized even by today’s modern card producers.

In summarizing everything that made 1993 Topps such a vital part both if its era and the long-term growth of the sport’s memorabilia category, it’s clear to see why this particular checklist endures as a touchstone release. Between the inaugural use of wood as a substrate and creation of special parallels, to the star-studded base cards and truly rare chase cards, Topps set the bar exceedingly high with this single set. Its popularity and collecting significance show no signs of slowing some 30 years after its initial publication. The 1993 Topps baseball cards truly represent both the best of their time as well as a release that helped solidify baseball cards as a mainstream hobby for fans of all ages.

BASEBALL CARDS SAVANNAH GA

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The tradition of baseball card collecting in Savannah, Georgia dates back over a century. Some of the earliest baseball cards were produced in the late 1800s as a promotional item by tobacco companies like Allen & Ginter and Old Judge. While these vintage cards featured some of the biggest stars of the day like Pud Galvin and King Kelly, they were not widely collected by fans in Savannah at the time. Baseball was still a relatively new professional sport and card collecting had not yet caught on as a popular pastime.

It wasn’t until the early 20th century that baseball cards started gaining more widespread popularity among youth in Savannah. In the 1910s, companies like American Caramel began mass producing cards inserted randomly in packs of gum and candy. Finding these surprise cards became an exciting part of snacking for many local children. The cards featured active players from that era and helped raise awareness of the latest stars in the Major Leagues. Young fans in Savannah began amassing card collections for the first time and trading duplicates with friends at school.

The golden age of baseball cards arrived in the late 1930s through the 1950s. Tobacco brands like Topps, Bowman, and Fleer were cranking out new sets annually featuring the latest rookies and superstars. Their colorful designs, stats, and biographies made the players come alive on the small cardboard pieces. In Savannah, drug stores and corner grocery stores stocked packs of cards that could be purchased for a penny or two. It became a rite of passage for many local boys to stop in after school or on their paper routes hoping to pull a prized rookie. Neighborhood card swaps were also popular on weekends.

By the 1950s, Savannah had developed a robust baseball card collecting scene. Local card shops like Rays Sportscards opened their doors catering specifically to the growing hobby. They stocked the latest releases as well as boxes of used commons that could be searched through hoping to find a hidden gem. Teenagers would flock to the shops on release day, eagerly tearing into fresh wax packs right in the store. Regional card shows also started popping up where collectors could browse tables full of cards, meet with dealers, and trade with other fans.

The 1960s saw new innovations in baseball cards that captured the interest of collectors in Savannah. Topps introduced the first modern style cards with vibrant color photos on the front in 1961. Their 1965 set also debuted the first bubble gum cards for the post-war generation. Savannah collectors enjoyed showing off the new shiny cards to friends. The city’s card shops continued to thrive, with some staying open late on weekends to accommodate the bustling trade. Regional memorabilia stores also opened, selling vintage cards, autographed items, and other collectibles.

While the 1970s saw a decline in baseball card production and popularity nationwide, Savannah’s scene remained steady. The city’s shops adapted by expanding their inventory to include other sports cards like football and basketball which were gaining new fans. They also stocked non-sports related collectibles such as comic books, coins, and stamps. This helped broaden their customer base as interests evolved. Local card shows also grew larger, drawing collectors from surrounding areas on weekends. Top graded vintage cards from the tobacco era started gaining value as the hobby underwent a nostalgia boom.

The baseball card market experienced a massive resurgence in the 1980s fueled by the rise of speculating and investment. In Savannah, shops were bursting at the seams as collectors hunted for the latest star rookies and chase cards to stash away or flip. Regional shows saw record attendance each month. The increased values also motivated many locals to dig through their childhood collections, sometimes unearthing forgotten treasures worth thousands. This led to an explosion of interest in the city’s vintage card shops and memorabilia stores, which were flooded with people hoping to cash in.

By the 1990s, Savannah had developed into a true hotbed for the baseball card hobby. National and international dealers set up booths regularly at the city’s shows, which continued drawing record crowds. Local shops stayed open late on weekends to accommodate the busy trade. The rise of the internet also allowed Savannah collectors to easily buy, sell and research cards online. Graded vintage cards from the tobacco era were reaching six figure prices. The city’s memorabilia stores were booming with collectors of all ages browsing for investments or nostalgia pieces. Baseball card collecting had truly cemented itself as a beloved pastime for generations in Savannah.

Into the 2000s and beyond, Savannah’s vibrant baseball card scene has shown no signs of slowing down. While the market saw ups and downs, the city’s shops and shows have continued thriving. A new generation of collectors has emerged, keeping the hobby alive through card breaks, YouTube videos, and social media groups. Savannah remains home to many lifelong collectors who still enjoy attending the local shows, browsing their favorite shops, and reminiscing about the golden age of baseball cards. The rich history and tradition of the hobby in the city looks set to continue captivating new fans for decades to come.

APPS THAT SCAN BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby and collectible for generations. With the rise of mobile technology, scanning baseball cards with apps has become a popular way for collectors to digitally organize and value their collections. Several apps have been developed specifically for scanning and storing information about baseball cards. These apps allow users to easily catalog their collections, look up card values, and in some cases connect with other collectors.

One of the most popular and full-featured scanning apps is Collector’s Armory. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices. With Collector’s Armory, users can scan the barcode or manually enter details of each card into a digital collection. The app automatically looks up details like the player, team, year, and set to populate the record. It also provides a real-time market value lookup by checking against sites like eBay. Users can organize their collections into sets, teams, years, and more with customizable views. Collector’s Armory integrates with Beckett grading services to store grading details as well. The app allows users to take photos of each card front and back that are attached to the digital record. An online vault is included for securely storing the growing digital collection. Collector’s Armory offers in-app purchases to unlock additional features like trading and a larger photo storage capacity. The free version still provides robust scanning and collection management capabilities.

Another popular option is the Collector app from the makers of Beckett grading services. Like Collector’s Armory, this app allows scanning baseball cards by barcode or manual data entry. It automatically looks up values and populates key details. Users can organize their collections into customized sets, teams, and more. The app integrates tightly with Beckett services to store grading details and certificates. It also allows taking and storing photos of each card. A key feature is Beckett+’s alerts that notify users of new cards being added to their price guide, potential card value increases, and other updates. The Collector app is free to use but a subscription to Beckett+ unlocks additional features and perks. Both iOS and Android versions are available.

For Mac users, CardScan is an excellent desktop app for scanning baseball cards on Mac computers. The app supports scanning single cards or entire sheets of cards. It automatically recognizes the card image, reads any barcode, and looks up details in its extensive database. Users can build and manage digital baseball card collections with photos, values, notes and more. Collections can be filtered, searched and organized in different ways. CardScan makes it easy to track collection stats too. The app integrates with trading platforms to facilitate virtual or in-person card trades. Pricing plans are available ranging from a one-time purchase to annual subscriptions. The developer also offers the CardScan Collector iPad app for on-the-go scanning and collection management.

For a free, more basic scanning option, collectors can use the Collectorz app. This app allows manual data entry or barcode scanning of cards. It will lookup values and key details to populate the digital record. Users can organize their collections, take photos and add notes. The free version supports up to 1000 cards in the digital collection. For unlimited storage and some additional features, an in-app purchase unlocks the “Elite” version. Both Android and iOS versions are available. While not as fully-featured as paid apps, Collectorz is a capable free option for getting started with basic baseball card scanning.

For collectors interested in community features beyond just scanning and collection management, the Sports Card Trader app provides a social platform. Users can scan their cards, view market values, and build want lists. But the main attraction is the ability to connect with other users, post cards for trade, and facilitate virtual or in-person swaps. Users gain reputation through positive trades which is displayed on their profile. The app hosts a bustling marketplace where collectors can browse and propose trades with other active members. Both free and premium subscriptions are available unlocking additional features. Sports Card Trader is a great option for those wanting to leverage scanning capabilities while also tapping into an active community of other collectors.

Whether using a free basic scanning app or opting for a more full-featured paid option, digitizing baseball card collections has many benefits. It provides an easy backup of card information and photos in case of loss or damage to physical cards. Digital collections are much easier to organize, filter, and share compared to boxes of paper cards. Scanning apps pull valuable data at your fingertips, from values, details and stats to grading certificates. They also open the door to connecting with online communities of other collectors for trading, discussions and more. As the hobby modernizes, scanning baseball cards with dedicated mobile and desktop apps has become a must-have tool for organized collecting in the digital age.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS HOME RUN CHALLENGE

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Topps baseball cards have engaged baseball card collectors for decades with innovative insert sets and promotional gimmicks centered around America’s pastime. One of their most unique promotions of the 1990s was the Topps Home Run Challenge, which not only added excitement for fans during the home run chase seasons of the late 90s, but also sought to bring in new collectors and card traders.

The Home Run Challenge concept started in 1993 with players like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire starting to push past previous single season home run records. Topps saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing interest in home runs with a contest centered around predictable performance stats in baseball cards. The first year of the Home Run Challenge featured specially marked rookie cards of sluggers like Griffey Jr., Bonds, McGwire and others. Collectors could predict how many home runs each player would hit that season by circling a number on the back of their card.

Correct predictions were submitted to Topps and winners would receive baseball memorabilia prizes. It was a fun way to get casual fans engaged and added excitement in hoping a player would reach or surpass their card prediction. The challenge took off in popularity leading up to the historic 1998 season, which saw Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa battle for Roger Maris’ single season home run record. Topps upped the ante that year by including stars like McGwire, Sosa and Ken Griffey Jr. in the challenge set, which featured premium embossed foil home run cards.

Collectors could now predict home runs on cards featuring the top sluggers pursuing history. Topps also made the prizes much more enticing, with grand prizes including trips to spring training, autographed items and even a chance to watch a game from the broadcast booth. Local card shops also got in on the action by holding home run prediction contests of their own. The heightened competition between McGwire and Sosa that summer led to a huge increase in baseball’s popularity. The Home Run Challenge helped leverage that interest for Topps by giving fans another way to participate.

cards into the stratosphere. By accurately predicting McGwire would break the record with 65 home runs, one lucky collector won a trip to watch a Cardinals game from the KMOX radio booth. Topps sales of packs skyrocketed that year between the record chase and the added excitement of the home run contest insert set. The promotion was deemed a massive success in drawing new collectors, especially younger fans, who could now win prizes alongside following baseball history.

The historic nature of 1998 led Topps to continue the Home Run Challenge for several more years. In 1999, they upped the maximum prediction number to 75 home runs, nearly double the previous record, to see if McGwire or Sosa could replicate or exceed their 1998 performances. The run totals did drop off from the previous season for most players, but the contest continued generating interest. By 2000, Topps had expanded the promotion beyond just predictions.

The 2000 Topps Home Run Challenge introduced “Challenger Cards,” which featured 20 current sluggers. Collectors could then take part in new mini-contests by attempting to collect a player before they hit a certain home run milestone, such as 15, 25 or 40 for the season. Certain Challenger Cards were also only available through redemption of proofs of purchase or flier inserts from Topps packs. This added a new layer of complexity for collectors and increased the chase for cards and prizes. The Home Run Challenge continued evolving over the next few seasons while maintaining excitement around performance stats and predictions.

As the record chase years of the late 90s faded, Topps began phasing the Home Run Challenge out after 2001. By then it had more than succeeded in its goals. The promotion helped Topps capitalize on the massive spike in baseball’s popularity during 1998 and keep the momentum going thereafter. It drew in legions of new collectors, young and old, by giving them an easy way to participate alongside the sports page home run tracker. Major prizes were awarded to players who correctly called players like McGwire eclipsing hallowed records. Affordable contests at local shops also helped hometown heroes potentially win giveaways through their card predictions.

Perhaps most importantly for Topps though, the Home Run Challenge was a key reason for increased sales of packs, boxes and collections during baseball’s peak period in the late 90s. By all metrics, their innovative promotion was a brilliant marketing success in every way. While home runs may never reach the heights of the Sosa/McGwire battle for the record books again, the Topps Home Run Challenge stood as one of the all-time great collector targeted promotions that helped shape 1990s baseball card history. It brought renewed excitement for the hobby and still stands as one of Topps’ most creative insert sets ever.