UNUSUAL BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

While baseball cards are often thought of as standard cardboard collectibles featuring a player photo and basic stats, there have been some truly unique and unusual baseball cards produced over the years that break the mold. Whether variants created by error, specialty editions with novel features, or downright bizarre experimental concept cards, this niche area of the hobby continues to intrigue collectors. Let’s take a look at some of the strangest and most interesting unusual baseball cards out there.

Perhaps the most famously rare and valuable baseball card is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. What makes a particular Wagner card even more unique is when there are variations from the standard design. One such example is known as the “Black Border Wagner”, so named because the border around the image is completely black rather than the usual tan color. Experts believe only 1-2 of these were ever printed, making it the highest valued Wagner card in existence at over $3 million. Another odd T206 variation is when the image is printed upside down, which is remarkably scarce across the entire set.

In the 1970s, Topps began experimenting with new cutting edge foil technologies for their cards. One such experimental run resulted in a very limited series featuring player photos embossed in silver foil. Known as “Embossed Photo” cards, the images literally popped out from the surface. Only a small handful are believed to exist today in collectors’ hands from this failed test run. Another strange 1970s innovation was the “3-D Baseball Card”, where colorful active player images could be viewed with or without special 3-D glasses included. The technology didn’t stick but the novelty factor remains high.

Perhaps the strangest licensed baseball cards ever produced were a series based on the notorious disaster film “The Poseidon Adventure”. Released in 1972, these featured photos of real ballplayers in staged disaster scenes from the movie alongside stats on the back. While kitschy, they highlighted Topps’ willingness to try unconventional ideas. Another outlandish concept was a set titled “Baseball Thrills”, showing action scenes like stolen bases but with players’ faces morphed onto the bodies. The monstrosity left them looking vaguely familiar yet disturbingly wrong. Neither of these wacky crossover themes caught on longterm.

Rare errors can also yield unusual one-of-a-kind baseball delights for collectors. In 1985, Topps printed a shortrun of cards featuring Don Mattingly on the Yankees that were missing the typical yellow bar at the top containing team info. Only a small number are believed to exist. Odder still is the case of a 1984 Donruss Vince Coleman card that was mistakenly printed without any image, just the blank front of the card – coveted by error aficionados. Quality control lapses led to other anomalous finished products over the years, like a 2007 Topps Clay Buchholz Red Sox card with the photo cropped out to just show the uniform numbers.

Technology has opened new possibilities for unusual modern baseball cards as well. In 2009, Topps released the short-lived “InterLEAGUE” subset featuring two players composited together digitally on a single card in the style of a mashup. It was a novel idea that never really caught fire with collectors. Another digital oddity was Topps’ first NFT release in 2021, where a subset of cards could only be obtained as BZP files to view on a smartphone rather than physical paper. The crypto world met baseball card hobby in this unusual initial crossover experiment.

Without a doubt, the most bizarre baseball cards ever conceived were a set produced by Impel Collectibles titled “Fantasy Hairstyles”. Released in 2015 just as interest in alternative careers was skyrocketing, these digitally fabricated cards depicted players wearing crazy, outlandish hairdos they certainly never actually sported. From Alex Rodriguez in cornrows to Albert Pujols with a sea anemone afro, the absurd yet technically skilled manipulations attracted both fascination and mockery in equal measure. They showed how far some niche sidelines of the industry were willing to push concepts in hopes of going viral.

Regardless of whether deemed valuable masterpieces or just plain weird, these unusual baseball cards highlight how much innovation and creativity still exists within the hobby if companies are willing to take risks beyond the same old tried and true formulas. Even failures often find cult followings years later as campy collectibles. And who knows, one of these oddball editions may someday be revealed as the rarity that becomes the highest valued card of all time. For now, they remain cherished anomalous artifacts by niche collectors seeking the truly unique in baseball history on cardboard.

BEST SITES TO SELL BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Whether you have a collection of vintage baseball cards sitting in your attic or you’re looking to offload duplicates from recent packs, selling your cards is a great way to earn some extra cash. With so many options online, it can be difficult to determine the best sites to sell baseball cards. This comprehensive guide will explore some of the top marketplaces and platforms for selling baseball cards and help you choose which one is the right fit based on your needs.

eBay – As the largest online marketplace, eBay is one of the best-known and most popular sites for selling baseball cards. With millions of active buyers, you have a very good chance of finding interested bidders on almost any card on eBay. Some key advantages to selling on eBay include the huge audience, ability to set your own prices or auction cards off, and option to accept offers. EBay also takes a final value fee of 10% on each sale. Shipping is also the responsibility of the seller. Still, the massive traffic makes eBay a top choice for moving cards quickly at potentially higher prices.

COMC (Cardboard Connection) – Founded in 2000, COMC (formerly known as Collectors Universe) has grown to be one of the most trusted and efficient online marketplaces for sports cards, coins, and other collectibles. Sellers can send their cards to COMC’s warehouse to be professionally photographed, graded if desired, and listed for sale. This takes the hassle out of photographing and describing listings for the seller. COMC charges monthly or annual membership fees for storage and listing services but only takes 8% of the final sale price. They also handle all shipping. This full-service model makes COMC a great option for larger collections.

Sportlots – In business since the 1990s, Sportlots is another major online destination focused specifically on trading cards, memorabilia, and other sports collectibles. Like COMC, Sportlots provides professional photography and description services. They do not currently offer third-party grading. Sellers can choose to keep their items stored at Sportlots or ship items directly to buyers. Sportlots takes a 10% commission on completed sales. Shipping is the responsibility of the buyer or seller based on the listing details. Overall, Sportlots is a reliable marketplace with very competitive fees.

Facebook Marketplace – While not a dedicated cards marketplace like eBay or COMC, Facebook’s online classifieds section known as Facebook Marketplace has grown tremendously in popularity in recent years. With billions of users on Facebook, Marketplace allows you to reach a huge potential audience locally or anywhere in the U.S. You can list individual cards or entire collections for sale and interact directly with interested buyers. There are no listing or transaction fees. You’ll need to handle shipping, payments, and meetups yourself if selling locally. For casual sellers, Marketplace provides an easy way to move cards to eager collectors nearby.

Reddit – While not a traditional marketplace, the sports card trading subreddit r/baseballcards has over 115,000 members actively buying and selling cards. Sellers can create photo posts of individual cards or lots for sale and negotiate with interested buyers in the comments. No fees are involved and payments are handled directly between users, typically via PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection. Shipping is the responsibility of the seller. Reddit isn’t ideal for high-volume sales but can be a good lower-pressure way to sell duplicates or find buyers for more niche cards. Just be sure to thoroughly check a buyer’s reputation.

Instagram – Instagram has become another popular platform for collectors and dealers to connect, with hashtags like #baseballcardsales helping surface listings. Sellers can create photo posts of cards for sale and allow buyers to message them directly to inquire or make offers. As with Reddit, there are no platform fees but you’ll need to handle payments and shipping yourself. Instagram isn’t as structured as dedicated marketplaces but provides good exposure within the baseball card community if you’re active on the platform already. Just be sure your profile looks trustworthy to potential buyers.

Local Card Shops – While less convenient than online selling, local independent card shops can be a good option, especially if you have a large collection to offload quickly at once. Shops will buy entire collections outright for a negotiated price, though you likely won’t get top dollar. They do the work of sorting, pricing, and reselling cards individually to make their profit. This is a hassle-free method if you want cash in-hand right away rather than piecemealing sales online. Call around to shops in your area to get quotes.

For selling individual cards or small lots, eBay remains a top choice due to massive traffic and ability to set your own prices. COMC and Sportlots are leaders for professional consignment of larger collections. Facebook Marketplace and local Reddit communities provide easy exposure locally. And shops are an option if you want a quick bulk sale. Consider factors like volume of cards, desired effort level, and needed timeframe when choosing the best platform to sell your baseball cards. With the right marketplace, you can earn some nice returns on those dusty cardboard treasures.

FAR CRY 5 BASEBALL CARDS LOCATION

Leave a reply

Far Cry 5 features a collectible side activity where players can find baseball cards hidden throughout Hope County. Collecting all of the baseball cards in the game rewards players with perk points that can be used to upgrade their character’s abilities. There are a total of 50 baseball cards to find.

The baseball cards are scattered randomly throughout the world in a variety of locations. Some are found in plain sight out in the open world, while others require a bit more exploration to uncover. Locations include houses, barns, shops, cult outposts, and other points of interest across the three regions – Holland Valley, Whitetail Mountains, and the Henbane River.

Some general tips for finding baseball cards include thoroughly searching buildings you come across and checking under furniture, shelves, and in containers. Many cards can also be found tucked away on tables or tucked into drawers and cupboards. Cult outposts often have a few cards hidden around the perimeter or inside buildings. It’s also a good idea to check the interiors of abandoned vehicles you come across on the road as some cards spawn in trucks and other vehicles.

Below are some specific locations where baseball cards tend to spawn frequently:

Houses – Thoroughly search houses, especially ones that are unlocked or have their doors/windows broken. Cards often spawn on tables, shelves, or tucked away in drawers.

Stores – Convenience stores, gun shops, general stores and other businesses usually have 1-2 cards inside on displays or behind the counter.

Barns – Barns are a goldmine for cards. Check haystacks, lofts, tool sheds, and tractor cabs inside barns.

Silos – The interior ladder areas of silos will sometimes contain a baseball card at the top.

Boats – Occasionally cards can be found inside the cabins of abandoned boats along the shores of rivers and lakes.

Cars – As mentioned, thoroughly search the passenger areas and trunks of abandoned vehicles scattered across the map.

Billboard signs – On rare occasions a card will spawn behind or tucked inside the metal framework of large billboard signs, so be sure to check these interactive areas.

Fishing shacks – Small run down shacks along shorelines usually contain a card or two inside.

Pumpkin/apple farms – Greenhouses, barns and fields at farms frequently spawn cards. Check vehicles, buildings and harvest piles of produce.

Ranger stations – The small ranger outposts located within National Parks sometimes have a card or two inside.

Airplanes – Small planes crashed in fields or in remote locations occasionally hold cards inside the cabins.

Boatsheds – Small wooden sheds near docks and piers usually contain a baseball card inside.

Cult outposts – As mentioned, outposts hold multiple cards scattered around the perimeter and inside captured buildings. Thoroughly search these areas.

Bunkers – Underground military bunkers that can be discovered hold 1-2 cards inside their facilities.

Construction sites – Check port-o-potties, tool sheds and trailers at active work sites for cards.

Gas stations – Pumps, mini-marts and abandoned vehicles at gas stations usually contain cards.

Lodges – Hunting lodges, fishing cabins and other wooden structures often have cards inside.

Caves – Small caves and mineshafts may contain a card hidden within. Bring a flashlight!

Jail cells – Police stations and abandoned prisons sometimes hold cards within jail cells.

Railroad cars – Occasionally an abandoned boxcar will contain a baseball card tucked inside.

Planes/helicopter wrecks – Downed aircraft, especially in remote forests, sometimes hold cards within.

Towers – Fire lookout towers, radio towers and wind turbines may contain cards at the tops of ladders.

Boats – Fishing boats moored at docks occasionally have cards inside the cabins.

Deer stands – Hunting platforms high in trees sometimes contain a card as a reward for climbing up.

Junkyards – Thoroughly search piles of wrecked cars and scrap heaps for hidden cards.

Picnic areas – Check under and inside park tables and grills at scenic overlooks.

Mailboxes – On rare occasions, a baseball card may spawn tucked inside a residential mailbox.

Dumpsters – Don’t be afraid to dig through garbage bins, as cards can sometimes be found amidst the trash.

Portable toilets – Yes, even the blue plastic potties may contain a card inside on rare occasions. Bravery is rewarded!

Thoroughly searching the locations listed above using the search tips provided is the best approach to finding all 50 baseball cards across Hope County’s expansive map. Be sure to revisit areas as you progress through the story, as card spawns are random each playthrough. Patience and diligence is key to completing this fun collectible challenge in Far Cry 5. With some exploration, all the coveted baseball cards of Hope County can be uncovered!

BASEBALL CARDS CONNECTICUT

Leave a reply

The history of baseball cards in Connecticut is a long and rich one dating back over 100 years. Some of the earliest baseball cards were produced in the late 1800s and early 1900s by companies based in Connecticut like American Tobacco Company and Goodwin & Company.

American Tobacco Company, which was headquartered in Durham, North Carolina but had manufacturing facilities across the country including in Hartford, Connecticut, produced some of the very first baseball cards in the 1880s as promotional inserts in packages of cigarettes. These early tobacco era cards from companies like American Tobacco helped popularize baseball and introduced fans to their favorite players through these collectible cards.

In the early 1900s, Connecticut based Goodwin & Company began producing sets of baseball cards as promotional premiums. Goodwin was a manufacturer of sporting goods and other products based in New Britain, Connecticut. Some of their most famous early sets included the Goodwin Champions set from 1911 and their W514-1 set from 1913 which are highly collectible today. These early Connecticut made baseball card sets helped grow the popularity of card collecting nationwide.

In the 1920s, the Goudey Gum Company, based in Holyoke, Massachusetts but with manufacturing plants in Connecticut, produced some of the most iconic baseball card sets of the early 20th century including their famous 1933 Goudey set. These high quality gum cards produced in part at Goudey’s plants in Connecticut featured colorful player portraits and biographies on the backs and included legends like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb and Honus Wagner. The 1933 Goudey set in particular is one of the most valuable in the hobby.

Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, many baseball card sets continued to be produced by gum and candy companies with manufacturing plants located across Connecticut. For example, The American Caramel Company, based in Greenwich, Connecticut produced sets in the late 1930s and 1940s that are still popular with collectors today. And in the 1940s, Nut Products of Plainville, Connecticut included baseball cards as premiums in Cracker Jack and other products. These mid-century Connecticut made cards helped keep the baseball card collecting hobby alive during World War II.

In the postwar 1950s, the modern baseball card collecting boom began with the advent of modern mass-produced cardboard trading cards inserted in bubble gum packs. Two of the most iconic 1950s sets, the 1952 Topps and 1954 Topps sets, had some of their cards printed at the Beiersdorf-Pappedecker plant in Waterbury, Connecticut. This helped turn Topps into the dominant baseball card company for much of the rest of the 20th century.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, many other baseball card manufacturers had printing plants located across Connecticut as well. Firms like Bowman Gum of Stamford, Connecticut and the Leaf Candy Company of Hartford produced popular sets. And in the 1960s, the Donruss company had their cards printed at the American Bank Note Company plant in Holyoke, Massachusetts and Waterbury, Connecticut. This kept the Connecticut baseball card manufacturing tradition alive through mid-century.

In the 1970s and 1980s, while most baseball card manufacturing moved to other regions, Connecticut still played a role. Companies like Fleer had some printing done in plants around the state. And Connecticut was home to the legendary card shop Champions Sports Cards which opened in Southington in 1977 and helped fuel the first modern baseball card speculation boom before closing in 1990. Champions gave collectors in Connecticut and beyond a place to gather and trade cards.

Today, baseball card collecting and memorabilia remains popular in Connecticut. Card shops still operate around the state where collectors can find vintage Connecticut made cards from sets over 100 years old. Events are held celebrating the history of cards manufactured in the state. And collectors and researchers have worked to document and preserve the story of how Connecticut played such a pivotal early role in the creation and popularity of baseball cards from the 1880s through the 1960s. The legacy of companies like American Tobacco, Goodwin, Goudey and others lives on in the collections of baseball card enthusiasts around the world.

Baseball cards have deep roots in Connecticut dating back over 130 years. From some of the first tobacco era cards to mid-century gum and candy issues, the state played a major role in producing and printing cards that documented the players and helped spread the popularity of the hobby nationwide. Connecticut’s history with baseball cards is intertwined with the growth of the sport and memorabilia collecting itself. The legacy of companies that manufactured cards in the state continues to influence collectors today.

1988 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

Leave a reply

The 1988 Topps baseball card set marked the 27th year of production for the famed card company. The iconic design featured players images in action shots with team logos predominately displayed across the bottom. That year Topps released 660 total cards in the base set including future Hall of Famers such as Ozzie Smith, George Brett, and Nolan Ryan.

With the 1988 set now over 30 years old, many of the rookie cards and stars of that vintage hold significant value for collectors. Plenty of 1988 Topps cards remain available through online marketplaces, local card shops, auction sites and more. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the notable 1988 Topps cards that regularly sell and what prices they tend to command in the current market.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#158)

Considered one of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards in the modern era, Jr.’s debut Topps issue remains a highly sought after gem. Coming off his impressive 1987 debut season where he hit .326 with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs in 100 games, big things were expected of the young centerfielder. Nearly 35 years later and Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and is still revered as one of the greats to ever play the game.

In top graded gem mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s 1988 Topps rookie has sold for upwards of $10,000. More common well-centered near mint copies in the PSA/BGS 8-9 range will sell for $500-1500. Even lower graded copies in the 6-7 range can still fetch $100-300 due to the card’s nostalgia and significance in the hobby. No rookie card collection is complete without the famous Air Jordan jumping image of a rookie Griffey.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (#180)

While not as heralded as some other rookies from the set, Maddux’s debut Topps issue is still a key card for collectors to pursue. The four-time Cy Young award winner and 355 career game winner has proven to be one of the best pitchers in MLB history since breaking in with the Cubs in 1986.

In mint condition, a PSA 10 of Maddux’s rookie has topped $1000 at auction. More available well-centered NMs in the BGS/PSA 8-9 range sell in the $150-400 range. Even lower quality copies still move for $20-100 based solely on Maddux’s pitching excellence and Hall of Fame resume over his 23 year career.

Mark McGwire Rookie Card (#630)

Big Mac’s rookie season saw him bash 49 home runs for the Athletics, a rookie record at the time that started his rise to stardom. His debut Topps card featured one of the most recognized action images from the set with McGwire crushing a ball.

Mint PSA 10 copies of McGwire’s rookie have cracked $2000 at auction amongst serious collectors. Near mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range will bring $300-800. Well-centered lower graded copies in the PSA 6-7 range still sell for $75-200 due to the notoriety of McGwire’s home run feats. Even with steroid controversies, his rookie remains a driving card from the 1988 set.

Barry Larkin Rookie Card (#445)

A career .295 hitter with nearly 2,500 hits and an impressive resume that landed him in the Hall of Fame, Larkin was one of the stars for the Reds throughout the late 80s and 90s. His rookieTopps issue shows promise of what was to come for the shortstop.

In pristine gem mint condition, a PSA 10 Larkin has brought over $1000 at auction. More available PSA/BGS 8-9 near mint copies trade hands between $150-400. Even well-centered lower graded copies in the PSA 6-7 range still attract $20-100 based on Larkin’s elite career. As one of the set’s top rookie shortsops, his card remains a key piece for collectors.

Bob Welch (#11)

Welch went on to win 207 games and two World Series titles over his 16 year big league career after breaking in with the A’s back in 1978. By 1988, Welch was a two-time All Star and had finished third in AL Cy Young voting just two years prior while with the Dodgers.

In PSA 10 condition, Welch’s flagship Topps issue can exceed $500. Near mint PSA/BGS 8-9 grades will sell in the $75-200 area. Even well-centered lower graded copies still attract $5-50 for the veteran pitcher whose career spanned three decades.

Nolan Ryan (#181)

By 1988, Ryan was already a six-time All Star long removed from his early days with the Mets organization. But at age 40, he was still overpowering hitters while pitching for the Astros and on his way to career strikeout mark 7216 – a record that may never be topped.

Ryan’s iconic image on his 1988 Topps issue remains one of the set’s most recognizable. Pristine PSA 10 copies exceed $200 regularly. Near Mints in the PSA 8-9 range sell between $35-100. Even the lower graded copies always attract attention given Ryan’s status as perhaps the greatest power pitcher in MLB annals.

The entire 1988 Topps baseball set remains highly collectible and has proven to stand the test of time. Beyond the above headliners, stars like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, Dennis Eckersley and more are names that continue to pop up regularly in online auction results and sales across the hobby. Whether its chasing rookie gems, All Star variants, team subset short prints or even common players – there are 1988 Topps cards at many different price points for collectors. This vintage is a premier one that remains filled with investment and nostalgia potential for the foreseeable future.

BEST CARDS IN 1988 SCORE BASEBALL

Leave a reply

1988 was a landmark year for baseball cards as it was the final year produced by the legendary Score company before their acquisition by Fleer. The 1988 Score set is highly regarded by collectors as one of the best designs of the 1980s and features some of the most iconic rookie cards and players from that era. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the standout cards and rookies from the 1988 Score baseball set.

One of the most valuable and sought after rookie cards from 1988 Score is Ken Griffey Jr. Griffey was one of the most hyped prospects in baseball and living up to the hype in his rookie season with the Seattle Mariners. The Griffey rookie card featured a beautiful action shot of “The Kid” taking a big swing. This card has only increased in value and desirability over the decades as Griffey cemented his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats. PSA 10 Gem Mint versions of this card now sell for well over $10,000. Even lower graded copies still command prices in the hundreds due to Griffey’s popularity and status.

Another huge rookie card from 1988 Score was Chicago Cubs’ shortstop Shawon Dunston. Dunston was a key part of the Cubs’ rebuild in the late 80s and had a solid career at shortstop. His rookie card shows Dunston fielding a ground ball and also features a colorful and unique design that stands out from the rest of the set. While not as expensive as Griffey, graded PSA 10 Dunston rookies can still sell for over $1000. This was an important Chicago rookie card that remains popular with Cubs collectors.

A third star rookie from 1988 Score was Oakland A’s slugging first baseman Mark McGwire. “Big Mac” launched his career with 49 home runs in his first full season and immediately established himself as one of the game’s top power hitters. His rookie card, with a powerful swing captured mid-motion, hinted at the mammoth shots to come. High-grade McGwire rookies have also cracked the $1000 price point in recent years as interest in his career home run chase with Sammy Sosa was rekindled.

In addition to the top rookies, 1988 Score also had cards featuring superstars like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and Rickey Henderson that could be considered among the best in the set. But one card that stands above the rest for its rarity and subject is the Mike Schmidt “Farewell To A Legend” short print card.

Schmidt, a first-ballot Hall of Famer and arguably the greatest third baseman ever, was retiring after his final season with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1988. Score produced a special short print card to commemorate his legendary career. It shows “Mike Schmidt” in giant letters across the top with a classic action shot of Schmidt swinging. Only 10 of these cards were inserted per case, making them incredibly rare compared to the base cards. In high grades, a PSA 10 Farewell To Schmidt has sold at auction for over $50,000, a true record for any standard size card from the 1980s.

Another valuable short print from 1988 Score was the “Ozzie Smith Tumbling Backwards” card, so nicknamed for its amazing action photo. Only 15 of these short prints were included randomly in cases of the base set. High graded examples have sold for $5000-$10,000 depending on condition due to Ozzie’s popularity and the rarity of this specific card variation.

Some other notable star players who had excellent base cards in the 1988 Score set included Dodgers ace Orel Hershiser, Red Sox slugger Jim Rice, Expos fireballer Dennis Martinez, Tigers ace Jack Morris, and Yankees star Dave Winfield. These cards captured iconic players and moments from that season. For team and player collectors, 1988 Score had representation from across MLB.

The design aesthetic of 1988 Score has held up extremely well over the decades. Bright team colors pop off the cardboard with sharp photos and minimal borders. The set size of 792 cards was also a sweet spot, not too small but not overwhelming either. Combined with the star rookies, short prints, and base cards of Hall of Famers, it’s no wonder 1988 Score remains a collector favorite to this day among people who enjoyed the sport in the late 80s. Prices have risen steadily to match appreciation for the players, photography, and nostalgia this set delivers. For baseball card investors and enthusiasts, 1988 Score was truly one of the best issues of the entire 1980s period.

The star rookies like Ken Griffey Jr, Mark McGwire, and Shawon Dunston launched from 1988 Score go down as some the most iconic and valuable cards ever produced. Short prints like the ultra-rare Mike Schmidt Farewell and Ozzie Smith Tumbling Backwards cards take collector demand and prices to new heights due to their remarkable rarity within the set. And base cards of all-time greats like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Roger Clemens remain highly collectible and affordable for most hobbyists. For all these reasons, the 1988 Score baseball card set remains one of the most revered issues in the entire hobby. Its combination of top rookie talent, memorable photography, and fun 1980s design sensibilities have secured its place as one of the true classics of the baseball card world.

BEST 1958 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1958 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues in the entire hobby. Coming off a 1957 design that is largely forgettable, Topps really stepped up their game and created cards that baseball collectors still admire and chase to this day. While the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Bob Gibson and Luis Aparicio make appearances, a few stand out as truly elite among the 524-card checklist. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most coveted 1958 Topps cards that continue to captivate collectors over 60 years later.

Heading the list of the best from the ’58 set is without question the Mickey Mantle card. Widely considered one of, if not the single most iconic baseball card ever printed, Mantle’s image peering intensely out from the card never gets old. In pristine mint condition, this card can fetch well over $100,000. Even well-centered examples in EX-MT grade bring five figures. What makes Mantle’s card so highly regarded is his status as perhaps the greatest player of all-time still active when the set was released. He was also hugely marketable and popular, which helped Topps sell loads of packs chasing his card. Over the decades, the Mantle has become a true holy grail for collectors.

Another true heavyweight from 1958 is the Hank Aaron card. Like Mantle, Aaron was a living legend when his Topps card was produced, having just broken Babe Ruth’s single season home run record. Aaron’s poise and talent shone through and made him hugely admired. In top grades, his card has cracked six-figures as well. What’s more, Aaron has the distinction of being one of just a small handful of players to have his rookie card included in the high-number subset over 100 cards into the set. This scarcity bumps up the Aaron’s status and price tag compared to other true rookies. For good measure, the card also features a rare vertical format not often seen in Topps issues.

While Mantle and Aaron sit atop the 1958 food chain, other cards hold tremendous value and appeal too. The rookie card of Hall of Famer Bob Gibson is a perennial want list item. Gibson went on to dominate as a pitcher in the 1960s, winning two World Series MVPs and posting a minuscule 1.12 ERA in 1968. His rookie card can reach $15,000+ in pristine condition. Another rookie that performed well was Luis Aparicio. “Luis the Cool” stole a then-record 62 bases in 1956 and won Gold Gloves regularly at shortstop. High grade Aparicio rookies crack five-figures.

Across the aisle position-wise is Nellie Fox’s card. Fox was a gritty, contact-oriented second baseman who won back-to-back AL MVPs in 1959-60 playing for the White Sox. In great shape, his card has reached $8,000. Fox’s teammate on those pennant-winning Sox clubs was early power hitter Jim Landis. Landis slugged over .500 one year and his card has gained appreciation in vintage card circles. Near-mint examples sell for $2,000-3,000. Elsewhere, Rocky Colavito was a slugger for Cleveland teams in the late 1950s. He once led the AL in home runs and RBI. Colavito’s card remains a strong $1,000-1,500 in top condition.

Another factor that boosts the desirability of many 1958s is the photo quality and uniform designs worn. Topps photographers captured iconic action shots of players in vibrant uniforms that pop off the card stock. Cards of the era just exude a classic, retro vibe. The Reds, Dodgers, and Tigers of the period had some of the sharpest uniforms seen. Players like Frank Robinson, Don Drysdale, and Al Kaline really stand out in their team’s threads. Topps also did an excellent job centering the photos, with many 1958s having strong eye appeal. This all adds to why collectors remain so drawn to this classic set.

While the superstars dominate discussion of 1958 Topps, there are also many other notable and valuable cards throughout the set. Cards of early HOFers like Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, Duke Snider and more can reach $1,000-2,000 in high grades. Rookies of future stars like Ron Santo and Billy Williams are popular in the hobby as well. Even commons from the set hold value in nice condition. A complete set in any grade is a formidable achievement. In sum, the 1958 Topps set is a cornerstone of the vintage baseball card market. Its iconic cards are still widely collected and command top dollar decades later.

The 1958 Topps baseball card set broke new ground with its photography, design elements and star power. Anchored by truly legendary cards of Mantle, Aaron and others, it created images that still captivate collectors today. Over 60 years since production, its cards remain vibrant, historic artifacts that continue to set record prices. The 1958s truly represent the pinnacle of the classic tobacco era and why collectors worldwide are still addicted to the vintage cardboard hobby. Topps struck gold with this set and it will assuredly stay that way for decades more.

BEST 2023 HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from Topps. As a retro-style set that pays homage to classic designs from the past, Heritage cards offer a nostalgic look at today’s MLB stars. With its March release date, the 2023 edition gives collectors a chance to add some of the premier young talents and veteran standouts to their vintage-styled collections.

As the flagship retro set from Topps, Heritage cards carry premium value due to their limited print runs. Parallels and short-printed variations also add to the excitement of each new release. With its blend of retro design elements and modern player content, the 2023 Topps Heritage set is primed to be another highly collectible edition in the long-running tradition. Here’s a look at some of the top cards collectors will be chasing.

Shohei Ohtani Base Card

As one of the faces of MLB, Shohei Ohtani’s base card is always a prized rookie for any collector. The two-way star continues to cement his status as a generational talent and is a lock to be one of the set’s most sought-after cards. With his dominant play on both the mound and at the plate, Ohtani has become must-have for any vintage-style collection. His retro design will make this a centerpiece for years to come.

Juan Soto Base Card

At just 24 years old, Juan Soto has already established himself as one of the game’s best hitters. After powering the Nationals to a World Series title in 2019, Soto’s base card remains a hot commodity for collectors. His prodigious talent and youth ensure he’ll be a fixture in the league for years to come. With a retro design celebrating his early career success, Soto’s 2023 Heritage issue will be a blue-chip addition.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Base Card

Prior to a devastating knee injury in 2021, Ronald Acuña Jr. was cementing his case as the best all-around player in baseball. Now fully healed, he’s looking to pick up where he left off as one of the most electrifying stars in the game. Acuña’s rookie season established him as a budding superstar, making his Heritage cards essential for any collection. His retro design will be a prized pull for collectors itching to add him.

Mike Trout Base Card

As the greatest player of his generation, Mike Trout’s base cards are always in high demand. Despite numerous injuries the past two years, Trout continues to perform at an MVP level when on the field. His resume already stacks up among the all-time greats, giving any Heritage issue premium nostalgic appeal. Trout is a lock to drive interest in the 2023 set from the first pack bust. This will be another blue-chip, long-term piece for collections.

Albert Pujols Base Card

One of the most accomplished players of all time, Albert Pujols is in the twilight of his legendary career. As he chases milestones in 2023, Pujols’ Heritage base card will be a popular one for collectors paying tribute to his first decade in the league. His retro design celebrates the many highlights from his early days with the Cardinals. This could be one of the last Heritage issues for Pujols, adding to its significance.

Short Prints and Parallels

While base cards are the foundation, the short prints and parallels are what really excite collectors chasing complete 2023 Heritage sets. Topps is sure to include several sought-after short-printed variations of the top stars. Rarest of all may be a 1-of-1 parallel if Topps continues that tradition. Rainbow parallels from the standard Gold and Silver foil versions up to the ultra-rare Red will keep collectors searching packs. These harder-to-find chase cards create buzz around each new Heritage release.

Rookies and Prospects

While this year’s rookie class may not have a transcendent name, the 2023 Heritage set will still offer collectors chances to get in early on future stars. Short prints of rookies like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman will gain traction if they break out. Lower numbered parallels could become significant pieces. The set also tends to include top prospects who may debut in 2023 like Gunnar Henderson and Druw Jones. These serve as early opportunities to acquire future core pieces for collections.

Autograph and Memorabilia Cards

For collectors pursuing high-end hits, the 2023 Topps Heritage set includes several autograph and memorabilia inserts with today’s stars. Past sets have featured on-card and relic signatures of players like Soto, Acuña Jr., and Trout. Numbered to only a few hundred copies or less, these rare autographed and game-used cards can become major long-term holdings. The Heritage brand gives these inserts an extra layer of nostalgic appeal beyond basic autographs from other sets.

The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set looks to continue the tradition as one of the most coveted retro-style releases of each year. By blending classic design elements with modern player content, each issue pays homage to the rich history of the hobby while also capturing the next generation of stars. Chasing the top rookies, parallels and hits will keep the excitement high throughout the release cycle. For collectors pursuing timeless pieces for their vintage collections, the 2023 Topps Heritage cards will certainly deliver.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS OF 1989

Leave a reply

The 1989 baseball card season was one of the most exciting years in the modern era of the hobby. Major stars were entering their primes, rookies were making huge impacts, and the design styles of the top card companies captured the energy of the late 1980s. When looking back at the best cards from ’89, several stand out for their iconic imagery, valuable content, and lasting collectibility over the past 30+ years.

Perhaps the most famous and sought-after baseball card of 1989 is Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card from Donruss. Griffey was already showing signs of greatness in his first full season with the Seattle Mariners in ’88, batting .284 with 16 home runs and 47 RBI in just 108 games. Baseball card collectors and fans knew a star was emerging, and Griffey’s rookie card became one of the most hyped in recent memory heading into the ’89 season.

The Donruss design for Griffey’s rookie perfectly captured the essence of his smooth, effortless style in center field. With his golden locks flowing out of his Mariners hat as he tracks a fly ball, Griffey looks like the ideal five-tool player scouts had been raving about since he was a teenager. This iconic image, paired with Griffey’s budding superstardom, has made his ’89 Donruss rookie one of the most valuable modern baseball cards, routinely fetching thousands of dollars even in low grades today.

Another rookie card that has stood the test of time is Gregg Jefferies’ issue from Score. Jefferies was the first overall pick in 1987 by the New York Mets and made his MLB debut at just 19 years old in 1988. While he never fully lived up to the hype in the majors, Jefferies’ rookie card remains a key piece for any serious ’80s collector due to its rarity, iconic design, and association with one of the era’s most hyped prospects.

The ’89 Score set had a unique artistic style with players shown in action against colorful, abstract backgrounds. Jefferies’ card perfectly captured this aesthetic as the young second baseman is depicted stretching for a ground ball. With its limited print run, pristine examples of Jefferies’ rookie card can fetch well over $100. Its place among the rarest and most visually striking issues of the late ’80s cement it as one of the true gems from the ’89 season.

While rookies often drive excitement in the hobby, cards featuring the game’s biggest stars are usually the true blue-chip investments. In 1989, perhaps no player was bigger than Oakland A’s slugger Jose Canseco. After winning both the MVP and Rookie of the Year awards in 1988, Canseco entered ’89 as the face of baseball’s new power era.

His flagship rookie from ’88 already held tremendous value, but collectors were eager for a new Canseco card to chase in ’89. Topps and Donruss both delivered with sharp, captivating images of the muscle-bound outfielder. Topps featured Canseco in his classic power stance with bat pulled back, while Donruss opted for a close-up of his intense, focused eyes. Over 30 years later, high-grade versions of Canseco’s ’89 Topps and Donruss cards remain cornerstones in virtually any vintage collection due to his iconic status and the cards’ classic designs.

While stars and rookies received much of the hype, collectors in 1989 also eagerly awaited the release of the flagship sets from the “Big 3″ card companies – Topps, Donruss, and Fleer. Each company brought their best designs and photography that year to capture the essence of baseball’s postwar renaissance. Topps led the way with crisp action shots set against colorful illustrated backgrounds in their traditional 61⁄2″ by 31⁄2″ size.

Donruss countered with their oversized 7″ by 4” cards, perfect for showcasing huge headshots and intricate action scenes. And Fleer experimented with new artistic styles like die-cuts, stickers, and embossed textures across their base set. High-grade examples of stars, rookie cards, and complete flagship sets from ’89 Topps, Donruss and Fleer remain cornerstones for collectors today.

Beyond the biggest stars and rookies, 1989 also featured breakout seasons from players like Will Clark, Mark McGwire, and Barry Bonds that are remembered fondly by collectors. Clark’s power surge with the Giants, McGwire’s 40-homer campaign for the A’s, and Bonds’ continued excellence all made for iconic cardboard. And specialists love chasing key short-prints, variations, and oddball issues from niche manufacturers like Score, Leaf, and Fleer Ultra.

Whether it’s chasing rookie cards, star performers, complete sets or oddballs, the 1989 season created collecting opportunities that have stood the test of time. Over 30 years later, the cards remain vibrant windows into the sport’s rebirth, capturing an exciting era that diehard fans still reminisce about today. For both nostalgia and investment potential, the best baseball cards of 1989 remain a pinnacle in the modern hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS BLASTER BOX

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for generations, allowing fans to collect pieces of their favorite players and relive memorable moments from seasons past. While individual packs and boxes of cards have long been available, in recent decades the concept of the “blaster box” has taken the collecting world by storm. Blaster boxes provide collectors of all ages and experience levels an affordable and exciting way to build their collections through a curated assortment of cards in a single packaged product.

The term “blaster box” originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s as the hobby card industry was booming. Manufacturers began creating larger boxed sets that contained multiple wax packs or cello packs of cards that could be “blasted” open quickly for the fun of the rip and the thrill of the pull. These boxes offered more cards at a lower per-card price than individual packs, making them perfect for casual collectors or kids just starting out. Some of the earliest and most popular blaster boxes included Donruss Baseball, Fleer Baseball, and Topps Baseball.

Inside a typical modern-day blaster box, collectors will find between 10-20 packs or mini packs of cards. Pack assortments and total card counts can vary between manufacturers and specific product lines, but in general blaster boxes provide a curated cross-section of a full baseball card set in a single purchase. This allows novice collectors to efficiently build their rosters and get a representative sample of the year’s releases, without having to buy dozens of loose packs. More experienced “ripper” collectors also enjoy the fun of rapidly opening multiple packs at once in search of elusive hits.

While individual packs retail for around $1 each, blaster boxes offer significant savings at typical price points between $15-30. This price-per-card ratio makes them an affordable way for any fan or collector to participate in the hobby. They are especially geared towards younger collectors, who may not have the budget for expensive hobby boxes but can enjoy the opening experience with friends through a shared blaster box. Many consider blaster boxes to be the perfect starting point product that can spark a lifelong passion.

In addition to the base cards that make up the bulk of any given set, blaster boxes offer collectors the chance to pull coveted “hits” in the form of autograph, memorabilia, and short print cards. While these hits will generally be of lower-end players compared to the rarer finds in higher-end products, they still provide that exciting “chase” element to each rip. Memorabilia cards containing game-used material, autographs from up-and-coming rookies, and popular inserts increase the fun and sense of anticipation with each new pack torn open.

While the core composition and value ratio have remained consistent, blaster boxes have evolved in terms of available brands, included promotions, and supplemental materials over the years. In the modern era, manufacturers load their blaster boxes with additional bonuses like sticker sheets, informational flyers, coupon/redemption codes, and occasionally promotional packs from other sets. Some companies even create box-exclusive parallels, inserts, or memorabilia cards to further entice collectors.

Brands have also gotten more creative with unique designs and premium packaging materials for their blaster boxes. Examples include Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome utilizing metallic wrappers that reflect the product lines’ focus on refractors, and Topps Transcendent employing a translucent box paying homage to the set’s innovative “hit or miss” concept. These value-added touches help blaster boxes maintain appeal to collectors beyond just the core card assortment.

While the mainstream blaster box market is dominated by flagship releases from Topps, Panini, and Upper Deck each season, several smaller independent companies have carved out niches with specialty products as well. Examples include Leaf’s metal-style boxes for their high-end sets, Donruss Optic employing a clear plastic container, and various retro and vintage-inspired lines coming in unique retro-style packaging. Niche brands offer collectors variety and help bring recognition to players and teams that may get overlooked in larger releases.

As one of the most accessible and affordable entry points into the hobby, blaster boxes will always have an important place in the baseball card industry. Whether for kids, casual collectors, or veterans seeking affordable fun, they provide a complete opening experience at a fair price point. With continuous innovation and special touches from manufacturers, blaster boxes keep the excitement of the rip alive for collectors of all ages and means. Their popularity is a big reason why baseball cards remain so beloved after all these decades.