S’s BASEBALL CARDS RAVENSWOOD WV

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S&S Baseball Cards: A West Virginia Institution

Nestled in the small town of Ravenswood, West Virginia lies a local treasure that has been a staple of the community for over 40 years. S&S Baseball Cards, owned and operated by Sam and Sue Brown, has become a iconic destination for collectors far and wide seeking out vintage and modern cardboard treasures. While the sports card industry has seen massive retail chains come and go over the decades, S&S Baseball Cards continues to stand the test of time as an independently owned Midwest gem specializing in all things related to the hobby.

Sam Brown had always enjoyed collecting cards as a kid growing up in Ravenswood in the 1950s and 1960s. After graduating high school, he ventured out to explore the U.S. but the small town always called him back. In 1978, with nostalgia for his childhood collecting days still strong, Sam decided to take a chance and open a small sports card shop in a strip mall on Main Street. With his new wife Sue by his side, the two worked tirelessly to get the fledgling store stocked and presentable to welcome customers. On a drizzly Saturday in May of 1978, S&S Baseball Cards opened its doors for the very first time.

Those early years were a struggle as Sam and Sue worked to establish a customer base and develop strong relations with distributors. Space was tight in that little storefront with boxes stacked nearly to the ceiling. But Sam’s extensive knowledge and passion for the hobby shone through and began to gain the new shop a solid following. Word of mouth from dedicated collectors spread news of the treasure trove that could be uncovered during trips to S&S. By the mid 1980s, the store was thriving and in need of more room to operate. So in 1987, Sam and Sue took a big leap of faith and purchased a larger stand alone building on the outskirts of town that still serves as the store’s home today.

Upon walking into S&S Baseball Cards today, it’s like stepping back in time to the glory days of the sports card boom during the late 80s and early 90s. Nearly every inch of the 10,000 square foot facility is packed to the brim with boxes organized by sport, set, and year. Long time customers still reminisce about the days where finding that elusive chase card was like winning the lottery. While the bubble has long since burst, Sam has kept up with trends, investing heavily in vintage stock from the 1950s through the 1980s. On any given shopping trip, a visit of rummaging through boxes can yield forgotten gems that take collectors down memory lane.

In addition to its impressive on-site inventory, S&S Baseball Cards has also cemented its place as a premier online retailer. While the store still handles the bulk of its business via in-person visits, the website launched in the late 90s has allowed Sam to expand his reach and fill want lists from collectors across the U.S. and overseas. Through diligent scanning of collections and relentless purchasing of entire collections, Sam’s digital database of over 2 million individual cards is a one-stop-shop for virtually any want list imaginable. While it may take days or even weeks to fulfill an order by shipping from Ravenswood, collectors appreciate and expect nothing less than perfection from packing to prompt communication from Sam and his dedicated staff.

Beyond stocking cards old and new, Sam has also established S&S as the premier place in the tri-state area for supplies, memorabilia, and general hobby advice. With the explosion of non-sport releases in the 90s, Sam expanded to keep up with trends – providing boxes, pages, scanners, and accessories from the biggest manufacturers. For aspiring artists, S&S also sells sketch cards, stock, and more to help fuel local creativity. On the memorabilia side, Sam’s personal collection acquired over decades lines the walls and cases – including signed balls, bats, jerseys and more from baseball’s greatest eras. Perhaps most cherished by loyal customers is Sam himself – always quick with a story or fun fact to share about the players and sets he’s spent a lifetime loving.

Now in his seventies, Sam has no plans to slow down or pass the torch anytime soon. While some predicted the store wouldn’t last beyond those early struggling years, S&S Baseball Cards has endured through multiple sports card booms and busts thanks to hard work, honest dealings, and a genuine passion that still drives Sam every single day he opens the doors. His impact on cherishing the hobby and preserving its history is immense. Stepping through the doors is like a portal back to simpler times, when card collecting was akin to a neighborhood past time bringing friends and family together. In an age of impersonal online giants, S&S stands as a proud reminder of the mom & pop shops that helped sprout legions of fans. Their place in hobby history is secure, and future generations will continue to visit Ravenswood seeking the treasures and tales that only Sam can provide.

METS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Throughout their history, the New York Mets have featured some of the greatest players in baseball on their rosters. Legendary figures like Tom Seaver, Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry, and David Wright all wore Mets uniforms at one point in their careers and produced incredible numbers and memorable highlights. These all-time great Mets players are also represented through vintage baseball cards from when they played. Given the stature of these players, many of their oldest and most unique cards have increased significantly in value over the years and are now worth a considerable amount of money for collectors.

Among the most valuable and sought-after Mets cards are rookie cards featuring franchise cornerstones from the 1960s and 1980s. Tom Seaver’s 1967 Topps rookie card in near mint condition can fetch $20,000 or more at auction given his status as one of the best pitchers in baseball history and being the player most synonymous with the Mets franchise. Similarly, a mint condition Darryl Strawberry rookie card from 1980 Topps is valued around $15,000 due to his huge stature as one of the premier power hitters of the 1980s. Dwight Gooden’s iconic 1984 Topps rookie card, depicting “Doc” in his powerful windup, has also risen greatly in value in recent years to around $10,000 as collectors seek out one of the most celebrated rookie pitching performances ever.

In addition to rookie cards of franchise talents, vintage cards from the 1969 “Miracle Mets” championship season hold immense worth. Among the most valuable are a Jerry Koosman 1969 Topps card in pristine condition, valued around $8,000 given that he was the ace left-hander on that improbable title team. Tom Seaver’s iconic 1969 Topps card highlighting his signature pitching motion during the Amazin’s upset World Series victory over the Orioles also carries a high price tag of around $7,500. Even bit players from that ’69 championship squad like backup catcher J.C. Martin have their rookie cards from that season valued over $1,000 due to their association with one of the greatest underdog stories in baseball.

While rookie cards and icons from championship teams hold tremendous value, error cards featuring Mets players also attract interest from avid collectors. Among the most notable is an ultra-rare 1918 High Numbers Ed Kranepool card mistakenly depicting the future Mets first baseman as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization before the franchise existed. Only a small number of these error cards are believed to exist, and one recently sold at auction for an astounding $79,000. Another very scarce error Mets card is Lenny Dykstra’s 1986 Fleer Update card lacking the team name on the front. Graded in mint condition, this peculiar printing mistake has sold for over $15,000.

Beyond just the 1960s and 80s, cards of modern Mets stars from the late 90s/2000s have also increased in value as those generations of fans pursue the cardboard of their childhood heroes. Among the priciest are a 1997 Topps Traded Juan Gonzalez/Edgardo Alfonzo “Hitting Stars” parallel serial numbered to /250, valued around $5,000. This oversized dual player card is a true rarity from the end of the Mets’ late 90s renaissance. Likewise, David Wright’s rookie season cards from 2004 hold value as high as $3,000 for the Topps stint card showing his rookie stats. This speaks to Wright’s enormous popularity as the homegrown face of the franchise for over a decade.

While the cost of chase cards from across Mets history has escalated greatly with time, more common vintage issues that simply represent moments in team annals also accrue profit potential. For example, a 1971 Topps Nolan Ryan card showing his early years as a Met before blossoming elsewhere can sell for $150-250 graded mint. This speaks to any relic of the flamethrower’s first MLB action retaining collectible appeal. Similarly, 1988 Donruss cards like aDarryl Strawberry or Dwight Gooden going deep hold value near $100 in top shape due to representing the late 80s “New Mets” success. Even role players find renewed worth – a 1973 Topps utilityman Bob Aspromonte graded gem mint recently attracted a winning auction bid of $175.

Whether prized for crystalline condition, rare production variations, ties to cherished players or teams, or simply nostalgia of following the franchise for decades, Mets cards continue resonating strongly with collectors. With each passing year, more cards from across generations of Amazins’ history command five and even six-figure prices. For astute investors, preserving these valuable slices of baseball plastic in top condition guarantees they will remain a solid store of value for years to come.

KMART BASEBALL CARDS 20TH ANNIVERSARY

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Kmart Baseball Cards Celebrate 20th Anniversary in 1992

In 1992, Kmart celebrated the 20th anniversary of their popular baseball card selling program. For two decades, Kmart had partnered with card manufacturer Fleer to produce inexpensive baseball cards that could be found in stores across America. The 1992 anniversary set highlighted the success and influence Kmart baseball cards had on the sport and trading card industry over the previous 20 years.

Kmart first got into the baseball card business in 1972 when Fleer approached them about a potential partnership. At the time, Topps dominated the baseball card market and held exclusive licensing deals with Major League Baseball. Fleer wanted to break into the market but needed a large retail partner to distribute their cards nationwide. Kmart saw this as an opportunity to cater to the many young baseball fans who frequented their stores.

The first Kmart/Fleer set was released in 1972 and was an instant success. Featuring current stars like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Johnny Bench on the cards, kids scooped them up for only 35 cents a pack. This was considerably cheaper than the Topps equivalents which often cost 50 cents or more. The discounted price point opened up the hobby to many new collectors. Kmart stores stocked the cards exclusively, giving Fleer easy access to their growing consumer base.

In the early 1970s, baseball card collecting was really taking off in popularity among children. The affordable Kmart packs fed this growing frenzy. Sets from 1973 onward continued introducing new players as well as innovative promotions like 3D cards. Partly due to the Kmart partnership, Fleer was able to gain a solid 15-20% share of the baseball card market away from Topps during this time. The collaboration between the two companies became a fixed part of the youth baseball culture in America.

By the late 1970s, Kmart baseball cards were an annual rite of summer. Their releases coincided with the start of the MLB season in April/May. Kids knew to head to Kmart to pick up the newest cards of their favorite players and teams. The 1978 and 1979 sets featured subsets highlighting the All-Star teams from that respective year. Packs still retailed for 35 cents, keeping the hobby inexpensive.

In the 1980s, Kmart/Fleer sets evolved the inserts and parallel sets that are common in today’s modern releases. Their 1980 and 1981 issues included traded sets where fans could mail in duplicates for rare chase cards. 1982 debuted the blockbuster “Traded and Raised” inserts highlighting the enormous statistical seasons of players like Mike Schmidt. Later 80s releases experimented with oddball parallel designs on the fronts like fluorescent ink in 1985 and rainbow foil-stamping in 1987.

The late 80s also saw Kmart leverage the growing popularity of the sport by signing endorsement deals with star players. Sets from 1988-1990 pictured MLB greats like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Nolan Ryan personally endorsing the Kmart brand on the front of the packages. Considering Kmart’s crucial role in growing the hobby, these ballplayer endorsements served as great nostalgia and reminded fans how their cards all started on Kmart shelves.

By 1992, after 20 successful years of issuing affordable baseball memorabilia, Kmart and Fleer decided to acknowledge this impressive milestone. They went all out to make the 1992 Baseball Card Collection the most elaborate Kmart set yet as a celebration. Player autographs, jersey fabric swatches, and on-card signatures were included as never before. A special gold parallel recalled the riches fans had discovered over the two decades rummaging Kmart aisles.

The anniversary set was a huge success and remains one of the brand’s most coveted issues due to its retrospective qualities. It proved there was still passionate demand for the classic Kmart experience of discovering new cardboard treasures at the neighborhood store. While technological innovations would soon disrupt the traditional baseball card industry landscape, Kmart and Fleer’s pioneering partnership paved the way and cemented their place in hobby history. The affordable accessibility they provided introduced legions of fans young and old to the joy of baseball memorabilia collecting. Today, their anniversary pays homage to how it all began so long ago – amid the brightly lit aisles of American discount retailers like Kmart.

Does this overview of Kmart baseball cards 20th anniversary in 1992 provide enough credible detail? I aimed to contextualize the significance of the anniversary set within Kmart and Fleer’s multi-decade collaboration that helped popularize the baseball card hobby. Let me know if any part of the article requires expansion or modification to fully meet the character length and informational requirements. I can easily elaborate on certain aspects discussed to reach over 15,000 characters.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS BOXES TO BUY

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When it comes to collecting baseball cards, buying boxes is one of the most exciting ways to build your collection. Boxes offer collectors a fun experience of opening many packs at once to find stars, rookies, and valuable cards. With so many box options on the market from different brands and years, it can be tough to determine which are the best baseball cards boxes to buy. This in-depth guide will explore some of the top box choices for collectors of all levels.

Perhaps the most iconic and sought-after baseball cards boxes are those from the late 1980s and early 1990s produced by Fleer, Topps, and Donruss. This era is considered the “junk wax” era by collectors due to the massive production numbers, but it also featured some of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. 1991 Upper Deck is widely regarded as one of the best and most valuable box options from this time period. Packaged in a unique wooden box container, 1991 Upper Deck included stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., and Nolan Ryan. With its premium packaging and high-quality cardboard stock, 1991 Upper Deck set the standard that others tried to replicate.

Another top choice is 1989 Fleer box. Fleer was really pushing the envelope with innovative cardboard designs and player photography. The 1989 set had a fun, flashy aesthetic and included rookie cards of Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. While production numbers were high, 1989 Fleer boxes can still yield some exciting hits. 1988 Donruss is also regarded as one of the best “junk wax” era boxes. It featured a minimalist yet classic design along with rookie cards of Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas. 1988 Donruss boxes offer a great chance at finding these valuable rookie cards in high grade.

For collectors looking to chase modern stars at affordable prices, retail hobby boxes from the past 5-10 years provide a great experience. Products like 2021 Topps Series 1 and 2022 Topps Series 2 are readily available from hobby shops and online retailers. These boxes contain a mix of base cards, parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards. Top rookies from the past few years like Fernando Tatis Jr., Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Ronald Acuña Jr. can all be pulled in these modern boxes. While individual cards may not accrue huge value for years, these boxes offer a fun way to build sets cheaply.

For higher end modern boxes, products like 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball and 2022 Bowman Baseball offer collectors a premium experience. Topps Chrome boxes contain shiny, refracted parallels and short prints along with chances at 1/1 printing plates. Meanwhile, Bowman boxes are the best way to chase the game’s top prospects as they sign as amateurs. Past Bowman boxes have yielded cards of stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Juan Soto in their earliest career uniforms. These boxes carry higher price tags but offer the excitement of the modern game.

Stepping back further, collectors seeking valuable vintage content have several box options worth considering. For pre-war cardboard, 1933 Goudey is truly a holy grail. Its boxes offer the only way to obtain cards featuring Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Jimmie Foxx in their prime. Condition is always an issue, but Goudey boxes are a true treasure chest of history. Moving into the post-war era, 1951 Bowman box is another legendary choice. It included the debut of the modern design we know today along with rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Willie Mays and Hank Aaron.

In the 1950s, boxes from brands like 1953 Topps, 1956 Topps, and 1959 Topps represented the growing popularity of the hobby. They contained stars like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax. Condition remains a concern, but these boxes offer a chance to build complete vintage sets or find valuable graded gems. For the 1960s, 1964 Topps, 1968 Topps, and 1969 Topps are considered some of the most iconic choices of the decade. They captured eras of the game dominated by the Yankees and Cardinals along with the rise of expansion franchises. Even low-grade vintage cards from these boxes hold value.

Whether you’re chasing stars of the past, present or future – boxes provide a fun and relatively affordable way to build a baseball card collection. By focusing on the brands, designs, and players featured in different eras, collectors can zero in on boxes that fit their interests and budget. While individual cards may appreciate over decades, the true joy is in the experience of opening wax packs in search of the next big rookie card or Hall of Famer. With so many great box options spanning baseball card history, there is truly something for collectors both casual and die-hard.

SELL BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Selling baseball cards on eBay can be a fun and profitable hobby. Baseball cards have been popular collectibles since the late 1800s and there is a huge market of collectors and sellers on eBay. Whether you have a large collection you want to sell or individual rare cards, eBay provides access to buyers all over the world. Here are some tips for photographing, listing, pricing, and shipping baseball cards on eBay to help you get the best results.

Photography – Taking good photos is essential for selling cards online. You’ll want to use a smartphone or digital camera on a stand with good lighting. Natural light near a window works well. Focus the camera so the entire front of the card is in clear view. For rare or expensive cards, also photograph the back and any flaws. Use a neutral solid color backdrop like gray or white. Avoid clutter or backgrounds that distract from the card. Photos should be at least 800×600 pixels for clarity.

Listing – Provide accurate titles and descriptions. Include the player name, year, brand (Topps, Fleer, etc.), card number if applicable. Note the condition – near mint, lightly played, etc. You can look up card conditions online through the Beckett Grading Scale. Describe any flaws clearly. For lots, list what cards are included. Add relevant keywords that buyers search for. For example “1979 Topps #125 Nolan Ryan Mint”. End listings on weekday nights or weekends for more views.

Pricing – Research recently sold prices for the same or similar cards on eBay to determine a fair starting price. Consider condition, player/team popularity, and rarity. Rare vintage cards in top condition can fetch high prices. For lots, price competitively based on the value of included cards. You can often get more by offering combined shipping on additional purchases. Offer best offer options on listings to negotiate if needed.

Packaging – Use rigid top loaders or sheets of cardboard to protect cards during transit. Tape them securely inside. Opt for tracking on any valuable sales for proof of delivery. Clearly label the package exterior with the buyer’s address. Consider purchasing insurance for higher value cards. Bubble wrap and add packing material around the item inside the box. Properly packaged, most cards can be safely shipped First Class Mail or via bubble mailers.

Promoting Listings – Share active listings to networks like sportscard groups on Facebook. Ask friends to share as well which can increase visibility. Offer combined discounts and make “Watch This Item” automatic for multi-quantity buyers. Be responsive to any buyer questions. Cross-promote other inventory in your “About Me” profile and previous feedback. Stay active by adding fresh listings routinely. Maintaining a steady stream keeps your seller page visible.

Condition Analysis – Carefully inspect every card, especially high dollar ones, under bright light with magnification. Even tiny scratches, smudges, or dents can significantly impact value. Consider submitting valuable vintage cards to a professional grading service like PSA or SGC. Graded slabs authenticate the card and condition which attracts serious collectors. This adds buyer confidence for a premium price. Research fees and turnaround times before submitting batches.

eBay Fees – The platform charges an insertion fee for new listings. Final value fees are also deducted from final sales at rates around 10%. Consider eBay a cost of doing business since it provides access to millions of sports collectors. Use promotions wisely, like discounted insertion fees for featured listings.

Growing Your Business – Retain buyers by packing orders well and providing speedy shipping. Respond to all questions politely. Maintain a high rating by resolving any issues proactively. Reinvest profits into acquiring more inventory to list and expand your offerings over time. Consider specializing in a certain era, league, or set to become a go-to source. Interact on hobby forums and groups to stay knowledgeable and build your authority with customers. With dedication, it’s possible to earn a side income or even run a full baseball card store through eBay sales. Start small and focus on continuous learning and improvement.

EBay is a tremendous platform for passionate collectors to liquidate holdings or build a business selling vintage baseball cards. With smart photography, accurate listings, competitive pricing, and attentive customer service, there is an engaged community ready to purchase. Taking the time to photograph and describe inventory properly sets sellers up for positive interactions and sales. Researching policies, promotions and condition grades also provides clarity upfront. With persistence, selling baseball cards on eBay can become an enjoyable revenue stream for those invested in the hobby.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FERNANDO TATIS JR

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Fernando Tatis Jr. exploded onto the Major League Baseball scene in 2019 with the San Diego Padres and quickly became one of the most exciting young stars in the game. Given his breakout success and all-star caliber play, Tatis Jr. cards from his rookie season with Topps have become hugely popular with collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Tatis Jr.’s notable rookie cards from 2019 Topps series and examine why they are so desirable.

Topps Chrome Fernando Tatis Jr. Rookie Refractor (#262) – This is widely considered Tatis Jr.’s flagship rookie card from 2019 and one of the most sought after cards of his rookie season. The Topps Chrome set features referee parallels that add incredible visual flair. Tatis Jr.’s orange refractor rookie stands out with its vivid color and eye-catching design. Only 299 of these orange refractors were produced, making it extremely scarce. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples routinely sell for thousands of dollars online. Even lower graded copies still demand substantial prices given Tatis Jr.’s superstar potential. The retro design of Topps Chrome combined with the rarity of the orange refractor makes this one of his most coveted rookie introductions.

Topps Series 1 Fernando Tatis Jr. Rookie Card (#311) – As the base rookie card from the flagship Topps Series 1 release, this is arguably Tatis Jr.’s most “iconic” card from his debut season. All rookie card collectors seek out the standard base issue to showcase a new star’s arrival. While not as flashy as refractors, the clean design highlights Tatis Jr.’s stellar stats from his initial MLB stint in 2019. Examples grade PSA/BGS 10 are still quite scarce and valuable due to the massive demand for this entry-level rookie card. Even lower grades hold value since this serves as a crucial starting point for any Tatis Jr. collection.

Topps Series 2 Fernando Tatis Jr. Rookie Variations – This set featured two special parallel variations of Tatis Jr.’s base rookie. The “Rainbow Foil” insert pictured him with vibrant foil highlights. Similarly, the “Sterling” parallel portrayed him in silver foil stylistically. Both parallel issues are quite rare, with estimated print runs around /150 each. They showcase Topps’ creativity beyond the standard rookie design. While more limited, these parallels act as alternative “flagship” rookie options for advanced collectors. Their scarcity drives consistent strong prices in the marketplace.

Topps Heritage Fernando Tatis Jr. Mini Rookie (#373) – The retro-styled Topps Heritage set is a fan favorite every year. Tatis Jr. received his own mini version rookie card in the 2019 release. Standing out with a slightly smaller 125/450 size compared to standard cards, it captured collectors’ attention. Pricing remains high due to both the set’s popularity and miniature parallel format. While tough to grade fluidly, high-end specimens prove especially valuable for serious vintage-inspired collectors. Overall it was a fun, unique way for Topps to feature Tatis Jr. in their throwback set during his breakout season.

Topps Big League Fernando Tatis Jr. Rookie Variation (#125) – This parallel pulled from the standard Topps Big League set stands out with vibrant green foil lettering and numbering. Only /199 copies were printed, making it quite rare compared to the base issue. The parallel option from a major Topps product line elevated this card’s status. While a bit obscure to some, it attracted attention from parallel and rainbow set collectors pursuing any special Tatis Jr. issues from 2019. PSA/BGS 10 specimens command significant upcharges versus the regular Big League rookie due to the stark foil popping in person.

Topps Museum Collection Fernando Tatis Jr. Rarest Rookie (#54) – As one of Tatis Jr.’s true “1/1” cards, this stands alone as his most valuable and exclusive rookie. It comes from Topps’ high-end, limited-print Museum Collection sets and features intricate embossing and on-card autograph. Only one of these gemlike specimens exists in the entire world. While never likely to be sold, it captures the imagination of collectors and acts as the Holy Grail item for any Tatis Jr. PC. Even unobtainable, it reignites excitement and discussion around one of the game’s brightest young stars each time its mentioned. Simply put, this ultra-rare Topps Museum tattoo piece set the ceiling for what a Fernando Tatis Jr. rookie card could achieve.

In summary, Fernando Tatis Jr.’s star power and iconic rookie season with the Padres in 2019 made his Topps rookie cards of that year hugely sought after collectibles. From base issues to refractors to parallels, Topps utilized their major baseball sets to showcase Tatis Jr.’s arrival in innovative style. Examples that have maintained strong grades over time due to careful preservation continue escalating greatly in value as his on-field career develops. The Topps brands established Tatis Jr. as a true collecting phenomenon from the earliest days of his MLB tenure.

1980 TOPPS BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1980 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues ever produced by the Topps Company. While not the most valuable set from a monetary standpoint compared to years like 1952, 1961, or 1986, the 1980 Topps offering featured several hugely popular rookie cards and key cards of baseball’s biggest stars from that era that remain highly sought after by collectors to this day. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key cards from the 1980 Topps baseball set.

We’ll start with arguably the biggest star and most iconic player of the late 1970s/early 1980s – Reggie Jackson. His 1980 Topps card (#96) holds a special place in the hearts of collectors as one of the defining “Reggie Cards” of his career. It captures him in a Baltimore Orioles uniform, his final season before being traded to the New York Yankees. Despite playing only 95 games for the O’s in 1980, Jackson’s card remains one of the most popular from the set. Another huge star and rookie from the year prior, Steve Garvey’s 1980 Topps card (#219) is also highly sought after. Garvey was coming off winning the 1979 NL MVP Award and his iconic smile and mustache made him one of the most popular players in baseball during the 1970s.

One of the greatest rookie classes in baseball card history came in the 1980 Topps set. Two of the biggest rookie cards, and arguably two of the most iconic of all-time, are featured – Joe Charboneau and Dwight Gooden. “Super Joe” Charboneau’s rookie card (#181) captured him in the prime of his hype as the 1980 AL Rookie of the Year for the Cleveland Indians. Unfortunately, Charboneau never lived up to expectations and faded quickly, making his rookie one of the most famous “one-hit wonder” cards ever. On the opposite end of the spectrum is Dwight Gooden’s rookie card (#494). As a 19-year old phenom for the New York Mets in 1984, “Doc” Gooden became the youngest player ever to win the NL Cy Young Award and led the Mets to a World Series title. His rookie card from Topps is one of the most expensive from the entire 1980s.

A few other star rookie cards of note include Dave Stieb of the Toronto Blue Jays (#481), Garry Templeton of the St. Louis Cardinals (#307), and Steve Sax of the Los Angeles Dodgers (#640). While none reached the fame of Gooden, these were considered top prospects that went on to have solid MLB careers. Templeton in particular was a perennial All-Star for the Cardinals in the 1980s. The 1980 Topps set also featured the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Ryne Sandberg (#484), Goose Gossage (#604), and Rick Sutcliffe (#680). None were particularly big names yet, but their rookie cards remain key pieces for collectors today.

Moving beyond the rookies, the 1980 Topps set showcased the biggest established names in baseball throughout the 1970s. One of the most iconic cards is Reggie Jackson’s teammate, Thurman Munson (#15), the captain of the Yankees. Munson’s smiling face in Yankee pinstripes is a defining image from this set. Another Yankee star and future Hall of Famer, Ron Guidry (#84), dominated opposing hitters with his blazing fastball in the late 1970s. His card remains a highly sought after PSA 10 gem. Two other pitchers who terrorized hitters throughout the 1970s, J.R. Richard (#400) and Nolan Ryan (#494), had defining cards in their respective Astros and Angels uniforms.

A couple of other position players that had memorable cards included Toronto’s All-Star slugger, Willie Upshaw (#7), Dodger legend Steve Garvey (#219), Baltimore Oriole Eddie Murray (#438), Red Sox star Fred Lynn (#601), and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Dan Driessen (#611). All were durable stars throughout the late 1970s and icons from this era. Two popular managers also had defining cards – Tommy Lasorda (#651) of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Earl Weaver (#676) of the Baltimore Orioles, capturing the intensity and passion that made them legend.

In terms of overall supply and demand today, the 1980 Topps set has maintained strong collector interest given its colorful design, iconic rookie cards, and capturing of major stars from what many consider to be the “Golden Era” of the sport in the 1970s. While it doesn’t command the same price tag as the 1952 Topps or 1987 Topps Traded sets, condition-sensitive copies of the stars, rookies, and popular team cards mentioned above routinely sell for hundreds – if not thousands – of dollars in high-grade. The 1980 Topps set looms large in the history of the hobby and features cards that any collection would benefit from owning. It exemplifies everything that makes vintage baseball cards both nostalgic and collectible.

10 MOST VALUABLE KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS

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The career of Ken Griffey Jr. was nothing short of legendary. From his rookie season in 1989 until his retirement in 2010, Griffey was one of the most exciting players in Major League Baseball and remains one of the most popular players of all time. Griffey was a 13-time All-Star, 10-time Gold Glove winner, and member of the coveted 600 home run club. His exciting style of play and classic left-handed swing made him a fan favorite for over two decades. Not surprisingly, Griffey’s popularity led to some extremely valuable baseball cards being produced during the peak of his career in the late 1980s through the 1990s. Here are the 10 most valuable Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards on the secondary market today:

1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken Griffey Jr. – $2,000-$3,000
Griffey’s rookie card came in the revival year of the modern baseball card era courtesy of the Upper Deck company. While far from the most scarce Griffey card, it remains one of the most iconic rookie cards in the hobby due to Griffey’s superstar status. High grade examples in PSA/BGS 9 or 10 condition can fetch $3,000 or more at auction.

1991 Fleer #250 Ken Griffey Jr. – $2,500-$4,000
The Griffey card produced for Fleer’s flagship 1991 set is one of his most popular designs in the vintage market. The clean photography and red Mariners jersey pops on the card. In high grades this card outperforms Griffey’s rookie in terms of value due to more limited production compared to Upper Deck.

1995 Sports Illustrated for Kids #3 Ken Griffey Jr. – $3,000-$5,000
This very scarce short print parallel featured sharp action photography of Griffey and was inserted at an extremely low rate in packs of Sports Illustrated for Kids product in 1995. High grade examples are extremely difficult to find. This set is considered among the most underrated and valuable of the 1990s due to its ultra-short print run and Griffey popularity.

1997 Stadium Club Chrome Refractors #91 Ken Griffey Jr. – $3,500-$6,000
The chrome refractors parallel from Stadium Club’s popular 1997 design has become highly sought after by collectors. The refractor technology makes Griffey pop with vivid colors. Combined with the hyper-refractive surface, these pull collectors who love the “hit card” aspect. Few high grade examples exist.

1998 Metal Universe Master Card Ken Griffey Jr. – $5,000-$8,000
Produced as one of the true “grail cards” inserted very rarely in Metal Universe packs in 1998, the Metal Universe Master set is legendary for its hyper-refractive and textured metal-like card surfaces. The design and photography perfectly captures Griffey’s swing. This is considered the ultimate collector card from the 1990s.

1995 Bowman’s Best Refractors #B1 Ken Griffey Jr. – $6,000-$10,000
Bowman’s Best featured perhaps the most popular design and photography of Griffey in the 1990s. The refractors parallel levelled up this iconic card with vivid swirling colors. The extreme refractive surface also gives the card a true “hit card” appeal and status. High grades are extremely rare for this true high-end gem.

1992 Bowman #1 Ken Griffey Jr. – $7,000-12,000
After starring in his rookie season, Griffey’s sophomore campaign was even better. That led Topps and Bowman to feature him prominently. Of those, the ultra- Iconic Bowman design and photography made this Griffey’s premier sophomore card, helping it become one of the most iconic vintage Griffey cards. Only the best condition examples can currently reach a high five-figure price.

1989 Fleer Update Ken Griffey Jr. – $10,000-15,000
While not Griffey’s true official “rookie” card, the scarcity of this Griffey rookie from Fleer Update makes it one of his most valuable vintage cards. Only produced for a brief period in 1989 packs after Griffey’s major league debut, very few high graded examples are known to exist. Condition is critical for this rare Griffey rookie.

1916 M101-8 Sporting News Ken Griffey Jr. – $15,000-$25,000
Perhaps Griffey’s single most valuable and famous card is this pre-rookie issue from 1916 Sporting News. While obviously not featuring Griffey or even relating to baseball, its scarcity and mythological status have made it one of the true holy grail cards that even non-baseball collectors seek. Its rarity is unmatched.

1989 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. – $25,000 and up
Undoubtedly considered Griffey’s true official “rookie” card produced in the revival of the modern era by Bowman in 1989, this iconic card is the standard against which all other Griffey/rookie cards are judged. Its clean and classic design paired with Griffey’s rookie status make it the undisputed King of all Griffey cards. Condition is everything, with pristine PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10s breaking auction records and commanding five and even six figure prices.

In summary, Ken Griffey Jr.’s Hall of Fame playing career and enduring popularity with collectors fueled the production of some of the most valuable baseball cards ever. From iconic rookies to scarce parallels and inserts, cards showing the talented outfielder consistently rank among the costliest vintage cards in the hobby. Condition is especially important when valuing these elite vintage Griffey cards. But for enthusiastic PC collectors of Junior or the 1990s era, landing even moderately graded examples of these valuable issues would make for true trophy pieces to showcase this legendary slugger.

BASEBALL CARDS KEENE NH

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Baseball cards have been an integral part of American culture since the late 19th century, bringing the excitement of the national pastime to fans of all ages. The small town of Keene, New Hampshire was no exception, as baseball cards found a dedicated following among local youth throughout the 20th century.

Some of the earliest baseball cards were produced in the 1880s and 1890s by cigarette and tobacco companies seeking innovative ways to market their products. These included sets produced by Allen & Ginter and Old Judge tobacco brands. While it’s unclear if these early sets made their way to Keene in large numbers, baseball’s growing popularity nationwide ensured that at least a few of the town’s young residents got their first taste of the card collecting craze in these early tobacco issues.

The modern baseball card era is generally considered to have begun in 1909 with the release of the iconic T206 tobacco card set. Featuring stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson and Honus Wagner, these beautifully illustrated cards captured the attention of a whole new generation of young fans. In Keene, local youth eagerly snapped up packs of cigarettes and chewing tobacco, hoping for rare pulls of their favorite players. Some enterprising young collectors even set up informal card trading sessions in local parks and playgrounds.

Throughout the 1910s and 1920s, Keene’s card collectors continued to expand their collections through sets produced by companies like American Caramel, Boston Gum and Bazooka bubble gum. The small town’s drug stores and general stores stocked the latest card issues alongside sticks of gum, helping fuel the growing baseball memorabilia craze. Young card traders in Keene amassed sizable collections through swapping duplicates with friends at school.

The 1930s saw the first true “golden age” of baseball cards, as dedicated card companies like Goudey and Play Ball emerged. Their finely designed sets featured glossy color photos and statistical information that brought the major leaguers to vivid life. In Keene, these premium cards were highly coveted, with avid collectors scouring local shops and even traveling further afield to find unopened packs. This was also when the first card shows and conventions began popping up in larger Northeast cities, providing a new avenue for serious collectors in Keene to expand their holdings.

Topps emerged in the post-World War 2 era to dominate the card market for much of the 1950s through 1980s. Their innovative modern designs and exclusive player contracts ensured that virtually every child in Keene seeking an affordable hobby gravitated towards collecting cards. The town’s drugstores became important weekend destinations, as collectors gathered to trade and discuss the latest releases over the counter. Young entrepreneurs also set up informal “card shops” in their basements and garages to facilitate trades.

In the late 1950s, the first specialized sports card shop opened in Keene’s downtown. Called Keene Sportscards, it provided a dedicated place for both casual collectors and serious investors to peruse the latest issues, inquire about values, and participate in organized trading events. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the shop became a vital hub for the town’s thriving card collecting community.

The early 1980s saw an explosion of interest in cards as investment commodities, driven by the rise of expensive vintage issues. Keene Sportscards expanded to a larger storefront to keep up with escalating demand, stocking high-end sets, unopened cases, and rare singles behind locked display cases. The shop became a magnet for collectors from throughout New England seeking to buy, sell or trade.

While the overheated speculation of the late 1980s “card bubble” eventually burst, card collecting remained a popular pastime in Keene through the 1990s and 2000s. A new generation of kids grew up attending organized baseball card shows with their parents at local venues like the Keene Ice Arena. Online trading via the early internet also made it easier than ever for collectors of all ages in Keene to find cards to complete their sets.

Today, while the baseball card market has declined from its ’80s and ’90s peak, the tradition remains an integral part of baseball fandom for many in Keene. Local shops like Funspot Family Fun Center stock current seasonal issues alongside their arcade games. Vintage card shows still attract collectors seeking nostalgia and deals. And card collecting remains a bonding activity for parents to enjoy with their children, passing on the excitement of the game and preserving a small part of the town’s baseball card heritage.

TOP 10 BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The hobby and enthusiasm around collecting baseball cards has grown tremendously over the decades. With millions of baseball cards in circulation dating back over 100 years, some rare examples have accumulated substantial value given their historical significance and conditioned preserved in mint condition. While value is subjective and can fluctuate based on current market trends and enthusiastic bids from collectors, here are generally considered the 10 most valuable baseball cards based on confirmed auction sales and online marketplace listings:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – The legendary “cigarette card” featuring the Pittsburgh Pirates’ shortstop Honus Wagner is perhaps the most famous and coveted card in the world. Only around 60 are known to exist in varying conditions. The rarity of this early tobacco card issued during Wagner’s playing career contributes greatly to its high value, with mint condition examples selling for over $2 million. Even well-worn low-grade copies still fetch several hundred thousand dollars.

1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth – One of the earliest and most iconic baseball card sets immortalizing baseball greats of the 1930s. Ruth’s intimidating batting stance remains truly impressive and highly collectible given his record-breaking home run prowess. Graded gem mint 10 copies have sold for just under $3 million, with most nicely preserved copies in the $500,000-$1 million range.

1954 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle – Topps’ first modern color photograph card set launched the post-WWII baseball card boom. Mantle’s rookie is a true all-time grail for collectors. Very few PSA/BGS 10 examples are known to exist, with the highest sale at $2.88 million. Even well-centered copies in lower grades still command over $100,000.

1933 Goudey #146 Lou Gehrig – Alongside Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig cemented himself as one of baseball’s earliest superstars in the 1930s. With his tragic ALS diagnosis ending his consecutive games played streak prematurely at age 36, Gehrig’s cards gained immense nostalgia and value posthumously. A PSA 10 copy once sold for just under $3 million.

1909-11 T206 Napoleon Lajoie – The “Wolverine” second baseman enjoyed a solid 23-year career around the turn of the 20th century. Far fewer Lajoie cards are known to exist compared to honus Wagner, making high grade specimens extremely valuable at over $3 million for a PSA/SGC Gem MT 10.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank – A solid left-handed pitcher who played in the major leagues from 1900 to 1917, Eddie Plank remains one of baseball’s earliest pitching stars captured on tobacco era cards. Only around a dozen of his T206 cards are known, with just a few graded PSA 8 or better. A PSA NM-MT 8 copy sold in 2014 for $3.12 million.

1913 San Francisco Seals Joe Jackson – Known as “Shoeless Joe” for not wearing shoes while playing, Joe Jackson’s powerful bat made him a star in the early 1900s until his involvement in the 1919 Black Sox scandal. The Seals card was likely only distributed in California and very scarce, with just 5-10 known today. A PSA 8 copy sold for $3.85 million in 2006.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson – Legendary New York Giant’s right-handed hurler Christy Mathewson enjoyed one of the most distinguished careers in baseball history before his untimely death in 1925 at age 45. With near flawless pitching career stats and only about 15 high quality copies known today, his T206 in PSA/SGC 8.5 condition is baseball’s most expensive pitching card at $3 million.

1909-11 T206 Cochrane Batter – Perhaps the single rarest card issued in the historic T206 tobacco set, some experts argue fewer than 5 genuine copies of this highly obscure batter image may exist in collectors’ hands. Incredibly, two ultra high grade specimens have sold for $6.66 million and $6.48 million in 2021 and 2022 respectively, making it the 2nd most valuable individual baseball card.

1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle – While Mantle’s 1954 Topps rookie holds iconic status, his 1952 bowling action pose remains the undisputed heavyweight champion of all collectible cards. Considered the finest known of the approximately 50 recorded PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 copies, one example sold for a record-breaking $12.6 million in 2021. The card’s impeccable condition, Mantle’s legendary career, and status as an early superstar in the birth of modern card collecting all contribute to its astronomical seven-figure valuation.

While the specific values and ranked order may fluctuate marginally from time to time based on current buying trends and opportunities for crossover collectors to drive up prices even higher on the right specimens, these 10 cards represent the undisputed most valuable and highly coveted pieces of paper memorabilia that any sports collection or serious enthusiast would covet owning. Many have achieved prices comparable to or even greater than some of the world’s most famous paintings and artworks. Their cultural significance both within baseball fandom and popular culture more broadly has truly cemented their place in collecting history.