REDS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Collecting vintage Reds baseball cards from the 1950s and 1960s can be very rewarding both historically and financially. Here are some of the most valuable and desirable Reds cards from those early years that collectors seek and may command big prices at auction.

One of the true holy grail cards for any Reds collectors is the 1933 Goudey #53 Edd Roush card. Roush was a star outfielder for the Reds in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Unfortunately only around 50 copies of this ultra-rare card are known to exist today in any condition. Mint condition copies have sold for well over $100,000 given the extreme scarcity and iconic status of this early baseball card issue. Even well-worn low grade copies still sell for thousands.

Moving into the modern baseball card era, the 1952 Topps #114 Joe Nuxhall rookie card is one of the most valuable Reds cards from the 1950s. Nuxhall debuted as a 15-year old pitcher for the Reds in 1944 but his rookie card was not issued until the 1952 Topps set when baseball cards really took off in popularity. The Nuxhall rookie is one of the more popular and desirable rookie cards overall from the 1950s set and high grade mint condition copies can sell for $4,000 or more. Even well-centered excellent or near mint copies still trade hands for $1,000+.

Another coveted rookie card for Reds collectors is the 1954 Topps #331 Frank Robinson card. Robinson went on to have a Hall of Fame career and was the first African American manager in the majors but this early card captures him at the start of his storied career with Cincinnati. High grade Robinson rookies can sell for over $5,000 while even worn poor condition examples still hold value around $300-500 due to the significance and popularity of the player.

The 1959 Topps #500 Johnny Temple card stands out as one of the most visually striking and thus desirable vintage Reds cards. Temple is depicted in a colorful full swing motion photo against a bright yellow background. This creative and eye-catching card design combined with Temple’s playing career makes it a card that many collectors seek out. Mint condition Temples can sell for $800-1,000 range depending on market conditions. Solid near mint copies holding value of $300-500 as well.

Another key rookie to find from the 1950s Reds subset is the 1957 Topps #575 Jim Maloney card. Maloney went on to rack up 162 career wins including a no-hitter for the Reds and this early card captures him at the dawn of his career. Top graded gem mint Maloney rookies have changed hands for $1,000-1,500 price range. Very well-centered near mint copies usually fetch $400-600. Even worn lower grade examples still maintain value in the $150-250 range relative to the historical significance of the player featured.

From the 1960 Reds cards, the rookie cards of future Hall of Famer Tony Perez consistently rank among the most sought after. His 1961 Fleer #40 and 1962 Topps #489 RC’s capture “Big Doggie” at the start of his 23 year MLB career largely spent starring for Cincinnati’s “Big Red Machine” teams. Top graded mint copies of the 1961 Perez Fleer RC have sold for over $3,000 while near mint examples trade in the $1,500 area typically. The 1962 Perez Topps RC sees similar prices ranges depending on condition. Both cards are crucial for any serious Reds or vintage baseball card collection.

Another iconic “Big Red Machine” star featured on a historically valuable Reds rookie card is catcher and outfielder Johnny Bench. His 1967 Topps #553 RC became one of the most recognized and popular cards of the 1960s set given Bench’s eventual Hall of Fame talent and career. Top graded mint Bench rookies can command $5,000+ at auction while very nicely centered near mint copies still sell for $2,000-3,000 range showing the lasting demand for this classic Reds rookie card.

Moving into the golden era of the 1970s for Reds baseball, two of the most sought after stars to find were pitcher Don Gullett and outfielder George Foster. Gullett’s 1971 Topps #32 RC captures him early in his Cy Young winning career with Cincinnati. Gem mint Gulletts have sold for over $1,000 in recent years. George Foster’s 1972 Topps #210 RC is another highly regarded Reds cardboard from the 1970s as it features “The Bossman” at the breakout of record-setting career power season. Near/mint Foster RCs consistently attain $400-600 pricing as one of the era’s most recognizable rookie cards.

While finding high grade examples of early 1930s Reds star cards like Roush present an ultra-rare challenge, discovering choice condition vintage 1950s and 1960s rookie cards of legendary Reds players like Nuxhall, Robinson, Temple, Maloney, Perez, Bench, Gullett and Foster offers fans an opportunity to obtain true historic Cincinnati baseball relics possibly worth thousands to the right collectors down the line. With the Reds rich history, there remains strong collecting demand for remembering the franchise’s earliest stars through their seminal baseball cards from when the hobby first began.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2022 UPDATE SERIES

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Topps is the major producer of baseball trading cards, producing full baseball card sets each year to document that season’s players and events. Their 2022 update series continued this tradition by offering fans a mid-season refresh to their baseball card collections through new cards showing player and team updates.

The Topps 2022 update series had a September 16th release date, giving collectors the chance to add recently called up rookies, players who were traded mid-season, and statistical updates for the current campaign. Like all Topps baseball sets, the 2022 update included a mix of base cards, short prints, autographs, and memorabilia cards to appeal to collectors at all levels. With 192 total cards in the base set, the 2022 update provided a meaningful supplement to the original Topps Series 1 and Series 2 issues from earlier that year.

One of the main attractions of any Topps update set is the inclusion of rookie cards for players who made their MLB debuts after the original series were produced and distributed. Notable rookies found in the 2022 update included catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles, seen as one of the top prospects in baseball. Shortstop Oneil Cruz and pitcher Roansy Contreras also received their sought-after rookie cards after breaking into the big leagues with the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets respectively. Update sets allow collectors to stay up-to-date on the latest call ups without having to wait until the following year’s full release.

In addition to rookie debuts, the 2022 update series reflected many midseason trades that reshaped team rosters. For example, former San Francisco Giants pitcher Tyler Rogers received an image update wearing his new Milwaukee Brewers uniform after being dealt at the trade deadline. Outfielder Tommy Pham gained a similar photo variation showing his new uniform after a trade from the Cincinnati Reds to the Boston Red Sox. Trades are a big part of the evolving storylines in each MLB season, and Topps update sets make sure card collections can keep pace.

As with any Topps baseball product, secret short prints and one-of-one parallels added excitement and allure to pack-hunting for the 2022 update series. Serial-numbered cards like Green Foil /150 and Black & White /75 parallels provided lower print runs for collectors seeking scarcity. Base short prints like Managers and Stadiums also remained elusive chase cards. Meanwhile, extremely rare 1/1 printing plate autographs ensured the update maintained its appeal to high-end collectors. These scarcer inclusions reward those who invest in multiple boxes or cases with the chance at valuable vintage-style variations.

Memorabilia cards in the 2022 Topps update series commemorated special accomplishments and milestones from the current campaign. A relic card honored Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Oneil Cruz for hitting the hardest-ever tracked home run at 122 mph. A dual-relic paid tribute to St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt for hitting for the cycle. Other notable hits included patched jersey cards for two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels and veteran slugger Albert Pujols of the Cardinals. Topps always ensures its update sets highlight the most impressive individual feats within any given MLB season.

In addition to the base 192-card release, Topps produced several bonus expansion pack formats for the 2022 update series. These included 60-card Box Toppers exclusive to hobby boxes, 15-card Hanger Pack parallels, and specialty autograph and memorabilia inserts. Box toppers in particular added extra value by providing premium short prints and parallels only obtainable through case breaks or master set collecting. Meanwhile, Hanger Packs let casual collectors participate at accessible price points focused more on fun than scarcity. Overall these extensions created multiple viable ways for fans to engage with the update through both random team packs or targeted high-end product breaks.

As is always the case with Topps release dates, the 2022 update series timing coincided nicely with the climax of the regular season and beginning of the MLB postseason. With league awards and playoff spots still undecided going into September and October, the newest player stats and storylines in the update set remained highly relevant right up through the World Series. This ensured sustained collector interest across the entire release cycle and beyond. Updates traditionally sell well due to landing at a perfect time to document that year’s baseball in progress while simultaneously fueling anticipation for the season’s climactic conclusion.

The Topps 2022 baseball card update series delivered another high-quality midseason supplement to collections as only the stalwart brand can. By including rookie debuts, uniform updates, milestone hits, short prints, and parallels, it captured the excitement of baseball’s second half. Strong release timing and varied product lines catered to all levels of the hobby. As always, Topps updates fulfill their mission of keeping collectors current through relevant midseason supplements that document the story of each campaign from beginning to end. Their quality, attention to detail and consistent execution is why Topps remains the gold standard for baseball card producers year after year.

BEVERLY HILLS BASEBALL CARDS LOS ANGELES CA

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Beverly Hills has long been a hub for collectors of sports memorabilia and collectibles in the Los Angeles area. With its affluent residents and high-end shops, it’s no surprise that some of the most prestigious baseball card stores have set up shop in Beverly Hills over the decades. Whether you’re a serious collector looking for rare finds or a casual fan wanting to add to your childhood collection, Beverly Hills has plenty of options.

One of the most well known and longest running card shops is Beverly Cards, located on South Beverly Drive just steps from Rodeo Drive. Founded in the 1970s, Beverly Cards has survived and thrived through many industry ups and downs. Walking into Beverly Cards is like stepping into a time capsule, with rows upon rows of boxes organized by sport, league, set, and year. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to help with searches or provide appraisals. Their extensive inventory includes everything from the earliest tobacco cards all the way to the present day. With so much inventory, rare finds can often be uncovered with patience and luck. Prices tend toward the higher end given the location, but serious collectors accept this tradeoff for the selection.

A newer addition is West Coast Cards on South Santa Monica Boulevard. Opened in the late 1990s, West Coast Cards brings a modern flair to the classic card shop experience. The large store features display cases organized by year and set to easily browse, as well as a wall dedicated to the highest end vintage cards. Their single card selection leans toward the modern era of the 1990s and beyond, with an emphasis on star rookies and parallels. Graded cards, memorabilia, and supplies also fill out their offerings. While not as deep as Beverly Cards in vintage, West Coast Cards is ideal for building a collection focused on the late 20th century onwards or tracking down a specific modern parallel.

For the highest end vintage and most valuable cards, collectors make their way to LA Sports Cards located on Little Santa Monica. Owned and operated by a family of serious collectors since the 1980s, LA Sports Cards deals exclusively in vintage cards graded Gem Mint or better by services like PSA and SGC. Walking through the doors is like stepping into a museum, with legendary cards encased and illuminated. Their inventory is curated and constantly updated based on the latest auction prices and market trends. While browsing requires an appointment and prices are truly top of the line, this is the place to turn for finding that one missing ultra high grade card to complete an iconic vintage set.

In addition to the dedicated card shops, collectors will also find selections at some of Beverly Hills’ larger hobby stores. Hobby People on Wilshire Boulevard has long carried cards alongside their model kits, games, and other collectibles. Their card selection focuses on sealed products from the modern era but they’ll also have some loose vintage singles in the showcases. It’s a good stop for casual collectors just wanting to add a few packs to their collection on a shopping trip.

Similarly, the legendary Meltdown Comics just off Santa Monica Boulevard stocks a respectable selection of cards, comics, and other pop culture collectibles. While their card offerings don’t rival a dedicated shop, it’s convenient to peruse their shelves and boxes alongside browsing their extensive comic selection. Both Hobby People and Meltdown serve those collectors just dipping their toes back into the hobby or looking to fill some time on a Beverly Hills shopping excursion.

For events and networking with the local collecting community, the monthly card show held at the Beverly Hills Hotel is a must attend. Dozens of dealers from around Southern California descend each month to buy, sell, and trade with collectors. Everything from dime boxes to six figure vintage singles change hands under one roof. It’s a great place to check listings, get a sense of current values, and meet other collectors in the area. Shows typically run from the early morning through the afternoon each month.

Between the dedicated multi-generational shops, high-end boutiques, and convenient hobby store selections – Beverly Hills truly offers world class options for any baseball card collector. With deep history and an emphasis on quality, it remains one of the top destinations for enthusiasts in Los Angeles and beyond. Whether a lifelong resident or just passing through town, any collector is sure to find something to love among the shops of Beverly Hills. The city’s passion for collecting and affluent clientele have ensured its place as a West Coast hub for the baseball card hobby.

1991 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1991 Upper Deck baseball card set is considered one of the classic and most valuable vintage card sets from the early 90s. While it may not contain the true stars of the sport like the iconic 1952 Topps or 1987 Topps sets, there are still several highly sought after rookie and star player cards from 1991 Upper Deck that can be worth a significant amount of money in the right condition. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key 1991 Upper Deck baseball cards that hold value for collectors.

Perhaps the most valuable and iconic card from the 1991 Upper Deck set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best all-around rookie cards ever printed, Griffey’s rookie took the hobby by storm in the early 90s at the start of his Hall of Fame career. Even in lower grades, Griffey rookie cards from 1991 Upper Deck command premium prices. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Griffey rookie in 1991 UD sold for over $250,000 at auction in 2021, showing just how steep values remain for true perfect condition examples over 30 years later. But even in a PSA 8 Excellent-Mint state, the Griffey rookie still brings thousands based on recent sales. It’s truly a crown jewel card for any vintage baseball card collection.

While the Griffey Jr. rookie understandably overshadows everything else in the ’91 Upper Deck set, there are a few other star rookie cards that also hold great value depending on grade. Perhaps the second biggest star rookie after Griffey is Chipper Jones. Though not as widely produced as Griffey or some other rookies, the Chipper Jones rookie card still demands big money in high grades. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Chipper Jones rookie recently sold for over $50,000. But high grade PSA 8s can still fetch $3,000-$5,000. The Frank Thomas rookie is another popular ’91 UD star that earns thousands in PSA 8-10 condition based on recent sales. Its value has spiked in recent years with Thomas’ Hall of Fame induction.

In terms of established veteran stars from 1991 Upper Deck, two Hall of Famers stand out above the rest – Nolan Ryan and Cal Ripken Jr. The Nolan Ryan card is highly sought after by both Astro and Ranger fans alike since it features him with the Astros but was printed after his trade to Texas. High grade PSA 10 Mint Ryan cards have cracked $10,000 at auction. Meanwhile the Cal Ripken Jr. card remains a beloved short print and key Athletics subset card that earns $1,000+ in Gem Mint condition based on recent sales. The Kirby Puckett star card also performs well in auctions with high mint PSA 10s reaching $3,000 given his Twins popularity and stardom at the time.

Other key 1991 Upper Deck stars that bring hundreds or low thousands depending on grade include Roberto Alomar, Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, and Dennis Eckersley among others. It’s also important to notestar rookie cards like Alex Fernandez, Todd Van Poppel, and Bret Saberhagen can be valuable depending more so on raw ungraded condition since they likely didn’t sell as well originally as bigger franchise players. Some error cards from 1991 Upper Deck are also extremely valuable – including the famed Nolan Ryan/Jose Canseco printing plate error card that sold for over $50,000 in mint condition recently.

In terms of team and league subset cards, there are also some valuable options mixed in throughout the 1991 Upper Deck set. The star rookie of Frank Thomas is part of the tough-to-find American League Rookies subset, making high grade examples extremely desirable. Cards from the Veterans Committee, Black Gold, and League Leaders subsets can perform well for popular stars like Ripken, Griffey, Larkin etc. Finding stars in tougher pulls like Goudey Greats reprints or Turn Back The Clock can multiply values as well. Other valuable inserts include Star Stickers, Traded sets featuring deals from that season, and Team Logo Jersey parallel cards.

When condition grading 1991 Upper Deck cards,centering remains one of the toughest attributes to achieve high marks. Many cards from the set are off-center left or right which makes high grades like PSA 10 very difficult to obtain raw. Surfaces can also be an issue since these cards have been widely handled and played with since initial release over 30 years ago. With so many factors determining value like star status, centering, and of course sheer rarity – collecting 1991 Upper Deck baseball cards requires discerning taste and patience to build a high value vintage set over time. But for those willing to cherry pick the true condition gems, 1991 Upper Deck holds some tremendous hidden treasures still underappreciated by the wider collector base.

While it may lack the true superstars of some older vintage sets, the 1991 Upper Deck set deserves its place as one of the iconic early 1990s issues. As the hobby has evolved and young stars like Griffey, Thomas, and Chipper Jones cemented their careers – collectors have come to appreciate some of the key rookie and star cards from this release. For those looking to invest in established condition-graded vintage, building a complete high-grade 1991 Upper Deck set presents a major long term challenge. But selectively acquiring individual key cards of stars still holds potential to gain value further as the 1990s era nostalgia grows. Overall the 1991 Upper Deck baseball set remains an important part of the vintage collecting landscape.

BASEBALL CARDS ELMHURST

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The popularity of baseball cards in Elmhurst, Illinois can be traced back to the late 19th century when the hobby first started gaining steam across America. Like many other towns and cities at the time, young boys in Elmhurst became enthralled with collecting cards featuring their favorite players and teams. Early baseball cards were included as promotional inserts in packs of cigarette brands like Allen & Ginter and Old Judge in the late 1880s.

By the early 1900s, dedicated baseball card companies like American Tobacco Company and the American Caramel Company were mass producing sets of cards solely focused on the sport. Elmhurst kids would eagerly await the arrival of the newest series at local general stores and corner shops. Two of the most coveted early sets for collectors in Elmhurst included T206 from 1909-1911 and the famous 1914 Baltimore News issue featuring legendary players like Walter Johnson and Ty Cobb.

With no local minor or major league teams to root for in the first half of the 20th century, the people of Elmhurst developed strong allegiances to teams like the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and St. Louis Cardinals through their baseball cards. Kids would swap, trade, and compete to assemble full rosters of their favorite players. Some of the most iconic cards from this era that still surface in Elmhurst collections today include Babe Ruth from the 1918 Baltimore News issue and Lou Gehrig’s 1933 Goudey card.

The postwar boom of the 1950s saw an explosion in the production and collecting of baseball cards across America. In Elmhurst, little league teams were formed and youth participation in baseball reached an all-time high. Topps Chewing Gum became the dominant force in the industry, releasing full color, photograph centered sets on a yearly basis. Their 1952 and 1953 issues are particularly well represented in the collections of longtime Elmhurst residents. Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron rookie cards from Topps’ 1952 set are some of the most valuable from this era.

The 1960s represented the golden age of baseball card collecting in Elmhurst. Kids could be found trading, sorting, and admiring their collections at local shops, ball fields, and on their bicycles throughout the town’s neighborhoods. Topps continued to innovate, producing the first modern style cards in 1961 that featured player attributes on the back. The 1963 Topps set paid tribute to the 100th anniversary of the game and included the first color photos on cards. High-numbers and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Reggie Jackson, Tom Seaver, and Johnny Bench were hot commodities among Elmhurst collectors.

In the 1970s, the rise of competitive little league and high school baseball programs in Elmhurst helped maintain a high level of enthusiasm for the hobby. The industry faced uncertainty as the bubble began to burst due to an overproduction of cards in the late ’70s. Fleer and Kellogg’s joined Topps as major manufacturers but quality control and scarcity issues took their toll. Still, Elmhurst kids amassed impressive collections featuring the stars of the era like Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Dave Winfield. The 1975 Topps set paid homage to the American pastime’s bicentennial and remains a favorite of longtime collectors.

The 1980s saw significant changes in the baseball card industry that impacted collectors in Elmhurst. Increasing production values, especially of rookie cards, led to a speculative boom. Kids began focusing more on investment potential than the love of the players and teams. The arrival of upper deck in 1987 as the first premium card company reinvigorated interest among collectors. Iconic rookie cards of Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Frank Thomas from that year are highly sought after by collectors today. The late ’80s also heralded the ‘junk wax’ era as overproduction caused a crash in 1991 that nearly destroyed the industry.

Through the 1990s and 2000s, the baseball card industry stabilized under the “Big 3” of Topps, Fleer, and Upper Deck but collectors’ enthusiasm in Elmhurst waned some from the heyday. Still, interest was maintained among older collectors and a new generation was exposed through the boom in memorabilia and autograph cards. Icons of the steroid era like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, and Mark McGwire had strong followings. In the 2010s, the arrival of new companies like Bowman Draft and Stadium Club helped reinvigorate the modern hobby. Elmhurst collectors remain dedicated to assembling complete sets and chasing rare parallels and autographs of current stars like Mike Trout, Christian Yelich, and Ronald Acuña Jr.

Today, the legacy of baseball card collecting lives on strongly in Elmhurst. Local card shops like The Baseball Card Exchange attract collectors of all ages to buy, sell and trade. The Elmhurst History Museum has assembled one of the finest archives of local baseball memorabilia, including some truly rare early tobacco and candy issue cards. Vintage card shows are regularly held in the area drawing collectors from near and far. While the means of collecting may have changed with the digital age, the passion for the cardboard remains as strong as ever for collectors in Elmhurst, keeping the beloved hobby thriving for future generations.

YENNIER CANO BASEBALL CARDS

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Yennier Cano Baseball Cards: The Journey of a Prospect

Yennier Cano was signed by the New York Mets as an international free agent in July 2014 out of Sancti Spiritus, Cuba. He began his professional baseball career just a few months later in 2015 playing for one of the Mets’ rookie league teams in the Dominican Summer League. While he did not have an overpowering debut, Cano showed promising raw tools that excited scouts and card collectors alike.

As a 17-year-old in his first season of professional ball in 2015, Cano hit .232 with 2 home runs and 13 RBI over 43 games played in the Dominican Summer League. He did not have any officially licensed baseball cards released from his debut season as rookie league stats are usually not flashy enough to warrant inclusion in the major set releases from companies like Topps, Panini, and Leaf. However, Cano’s tools began to gain attention which led to him receiving prospects cards in 2016 and beyond.

In 2016, Cano received one of his first notable baseball card appearances as part of Panini’s 2016 Prizm Baseball product. The card featured Cano in the Mets’ minor league uniform with a blue border and stats from his 2015 DSL campaign. While not a base set card by any means, appearing in Prizm as a prospect provided early exposure for collectors to take notice of Cano’s budding talents. He followed up his debut season by hitting .267 with 3 homers and 23 RBI over 60 games split between the DSL and the Mets’ Rookie Advanced club in Kingsport.

The 2017 season marked a breakout for Cano as he began receiving widespread prospect recognition. Topps included Cano in their 2017 Topps Series 1 release, giving him one of his first mainstream base set cards. Featuring an action photo of Cano taking a lead off first base in his Kingsport uniform, it marked his coming of age status amongst Mets prospects. Statistically, Cano also took a step forward by slashing .287/.360/.468 with 8 home runs and 46 RBI over 72 games combined between Kingsport and Class-A Short Season Brooklyn.

Entering 2018, Cano established himself as one of the top Cuban prospects in all of minor league baseball and started receiving hype from national prospect analysts. His improved play led to inclusions in prized sets like Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome, and Topps Prospects. Many considered these “hit” cards that collectors eagerly sought after. On the field, Cano continued developing by posting a .283 average with 15 homers and 69 RBI over 113 games split between Class-A and Class-A Advanced.

The momentum really took off for Cano in 2019 when he broke out with career-high stats across the board. Splitting the season between Class-A Advanced and Double-A, he batted .293 with 21 HR and 81 RBI in 123 total games. Such a power spike made Cano one of the top power-hitting prospects in the minors and truly put him on the map. Predictably, his prospect cards from 2019 releases shot up in value as collectors realized they held cards featuring a rising star. Bowman Chrome Atomic Refractors and Topps Chrome Superfractors of Cano became highly coveted variations.

Heading into the lost 2020 minor league season, most outlets viewed Cano as the best overall prospect in the entire Mets farm system and a potential future major league starter. While he missed valuable development time that year, collectors eagerly awaited Cano’s inclusion in the 2021 series like Bowman, Topps, and Chrome. Despite no official stats to include on the back, his prospect status alone landed Cano multiple base cards across releases. Many saw it as the final year to acquire Cano rookie cards before his inevitable MLB debut.

That debut finally arrived in 2021 when Cano broke camp with the New York Mets following a strong Spring Training performance. He made his first major league plate appearance on April 9th against the Philadelphia Phillies and finished his partial cup-of-coffee rookie season hitting .183 with one home run over 23 games. While certainly not ideal stats, just appearing in the big leagues realized the journey Cano had been on since signing as an international prospect seven years prior. His debut season cards from 2021 are sure to be valued as the first official MLB issues after such an arduous minor league climb.

Yennier Cano has emerged from a budding prospect to an established top-100 caliber talent in the minors to finally making The Show with the New York Mets. His constantly improving play and rising prospect status over the years has paralleled his baseball card collections growth from an unknown commodity to one of the most sought after Cuban prospects on the hobby market. For collectors who followed Cano’s journey from the beginning via his early prospect cards in Panini, Topps, and Bowman, they now hold artifacts chronicling the complete rise of a promising international signing finding success both on the field and in the collecting world. While still early in his major league career, Cano has developed from a project to player with legitimate starting potential. Collectors will be watching to see if his cards continue to gain in popularity and demand along with his on-field progress.

BASEBALL CARDS INSTAGRAM

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Baseball cards have been a beloved collectible for over a century, taking fans back to memorable moments from seasons past. With the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, a new generation of collectors and fans are connecting over their baseball card collections. Instagram in particular has become a hub for all things related to baseball cards, from showing off prized recent pulls to vintage gems.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector looking to share your passion or a newcomer seeking inspiration, Instagram offers a treasure trove of baseball card content. Some of the largest baseball card accounts have well over 100,000 followers, a testament to the thriving community that has formed. Beyond simply posting photos of cards, many accounts provide interesting historical facts, price guide updates, unboxing videos of new releases, and more to entertain and inform fellow collectors.

For those just starting their baseball card journey, browsing the hashtag #baseballcards on Instagram is a great way to gain exposure to the hobby. You’ll find examples of collections both modest and immense, ranging from starters’ first cards to complete vintage sets spanning multiple decades. This provides easily digestible ideas for growing your own collection in a direction that interests you. Many newer collectors cite Instagram as playing a role in sparking or rekindling their passion.

Vintage cards from the 1880s up through the 1980s dominate Instagram feeds, as these older issues tend to be the most coveted and valuable. Rare Hall of Fame rookies, error cards, and oddball vintage issues fetch top dollar at auction. While it’s not practical for most collectors to own the true high-end gems, you can live vicariously by following prominent auction houses like PWCC and Goldin Auctions. Their Instagram stories during big card shows and sales provide a glimpse into the rarefied world of seven and eight-figure baseball cards.

For dedicated vintage collectors, hashtags like #vintagebaseball and #vintagecards help surface the finest 19th and 20th century specimens to admire. Many collectors with extensive vintage holdings will showcase their entire collections in multi-part “collection highlights” stories. This offers a chance to analyze the breadth and depth of collections amassed over decades. You may also come across forgotten oddball issues you never knew existed from brands long out of business.

Modern baseball cards from the past few decades also have an enthusiastic following on Instagram. Popular players from the 1990s through today like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, Mike Trout, and more regularly appear in collection posts. Newer parallels, autos, and memorabilia cards tend to get the most likes as collectors flex their latest chase card pulls. Breakers who film group breaks of current wax on Instagram stories provide an entertaining look at the thrill of the hunt in real time.

Many prominent athletes also use Instagram to engage with fans by showing off items from their own collections. Superstars like Clayton Kershaw, Andrew McCutchen, and David Ortiz occasionally post childhood cards of themselves or items given to them for autographs over the years. This offers a unique perspective on the hobby from the players themselves. Brands like Topps, Panini, and Leaf also maintain active presences by promoting new releases and contests.

For those hoping to build their Instagram following within the baseball card community, there are some best practices to adopt. Posting high quality photos showcasing the card at its best is paramount. Well-lit images held by hand or displayed in a toploader tend to perform better than stacked pile photos. Consistently posting new content, whether daily or weekly, helps keep your profile fresh. Engaging with others through likes, comments, and responding to comments/messages builds rapport over time.

Some collectors develop niches like a specific team, player, or era to become authorities on. Others cultivate entertaining personas through humor or unique collection themes. Finding your voice and what makes your content stand out is important for organic growth. Collaboration is also big, such as crossover posts with other collectors showing off trades/deals. Over time, your engaging profile can develop a loyal following of its own within the baseball card community on Instagram.

So whether you’re a casual browser or devoted collector, Instagram is undoubtedly a major hub for all things baseball cards nowadays. The platform has helped expand the hobby’s audience both young and old. With its easy sharing of visual content and connecting function, Instagram has strongly complemented traditional brick-and-mortar collecting while forging new digital communities. As the popularity of baseball cards only continues to grow, so too does the community celebrating the hobby on social media platforms like Instagram.

BASEBALL CARDS HOT RIGHT NOW

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The baseball card market is always changing with certain players and years becoming more desirable and valuable over time. While legends from the past will always hold value, there are also modern players and sets that collectors are seeking out. Let’s take a look at some of the baseball cards that are considered especially “hot” in today’s market.

Shohei Ohtani (2021 Topps Chrome Refractor RC #162) – Ohtani has quickly become one of the most exciting and unique talents in baseball as a two-way star capable of pitching and hitting at an elite level. His rookie cards from 2021 Topps products have skyrocketed in value with the Chrome Refractor being at the top of the list. Fresh off an AL MVP season and still just 27 years old, Ohtani is cementing his status as a true generational talent and his rookies reflect that. PSA 10 examples of this card have sold for over $1000.

Juan Soto (2018 Topps Chrome RC #231) – Still just 23, Soto has already put together a resume that includes a World Series title, two Silver Sluggers and a batting title. As one of the game’s best young hitters, Soto’s rookie cards have plenty of upside as collectors anticipate big things still to come in his career. The 2018 Topps Chrome refractor is at the top of most want lists with a PSA 10 bringing in over $800 currently.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018 Topps Chrome RC #132) – Acuña burst onto the scene with a Rookie of the Year season in 2018 and has only continued to improve, showcasing five-tool talents. Like Soto, he’s still just 23 years old and will likely have a long, productive career ahead. His rookie cards reflect the excitement surrounding his potential, with the Topps Chrome refractor being the most sought after. A PSA 10 has sold for as much as $900.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (2019 Topps Chrome RC #91) – The son of a Hall of Famer, Vlad Jr. lived up to the hype with an impressive debut in 2019. While injuries slowed him in 2021, he’s still just 22 and regarded as a future star in the making. As one of the most hyped prospects ever, his rookies hold value and the Topps Chrome refractor is considered his top card. PSA 10 examples have reached $650.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (2019 Topps Chrome RC #132) – Tatis burst onto the scene in 2019 with a Rookie of the Year caliber season and has only continued getting better. He’s one of the most exciting players in the game at just 23 years old and is a face of the sport. With Tatis’ star power and potential, his rookies remain hot commodities. The Topps Chrome refractor in a PSA 10 grade has sold for over $900.

Jacob deGrom (2010 Bowman Chrome RC #BDP45) – deGrom is establishing himself as one of the best pitchers of all time still in his prime at 33. He’s a two-time Cy Young winner who continues putting up video game numbers. For those who invested early, his rookie cards from 2010 Bowman are paying off. The super-short printed Chrome refractor has reached $1200 PSA 10.

Mike Trout (2009 Bowman Chrome RC #BCP70) – As the best all-around player of his generation, Trout’s entire card collection holds immense value but especially his ultra-rare rookies. The 2009 Bowman Chrome Refractor is the true holy grail, with PSA 10s selling for astronomical prices upwards of $400,000. Even lower grades still fetch five figures, a testament to Trout’s status a decade into his career.

2012 Topps Chrome Update Blue Refractors – This set features the blue parallel refractors of stars like Bryce Harper, Mike Trout, Manny Machado and more. As these players have developed into superstars, the set has become a collector favorite. A full set in PSA 10 grade would be worth tens of thousands. Individual cards can reach $1000 PSA 10 depending on the player.

1986 Topps Traded Set – This set features late-season additions and trades, capturing stars like Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire and more during pivotal seasons. High-grade examples of their rookie or star cards are highly sought. A full set in PSA 8 grade sold for over $22,000. Individual PSA 10s can reach $1000 or more for the best players.

1957 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 – The Mick’s iconic rookie card remains the undisputed king of the hobby. High-grades are exceedingly rare and valuable, with a PSA 8 recently selling for over $360,000. Even low-grade examples still fetch five figures due to Mantle’s legendary status. It’s the card that started it all and remains a Holy Grail more than 60 years later.

While vintage stars will always have cachet, today’s rising talents and short-printed parallels seem to be driving the market momentum. Collectors are eagerly seeking the rookies of players they hope will someday achieve icon status of their own. With young stars like Ohtani, Soto and Acuña leading the way on the field, their early cards could prove to be worthwhile long-term investments. The baseball card market remains a speculative one where today’s hot hands can quickly become tomorrow’s cold ones. But for now, these recent players and vintage sets appear to be where the most action is in the hobby.

FOOTBALL AND BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Football and Baseball Cards for Sale: A Collector’s Market Thriving Once More

The markets for vintage football and baseball cards have seen significant growth in recent years, with more collectors getting involved in the hobby and prices rising on some of the most coveted specimens from the early years of the two sports. Whether you’re looking to dive into a new collecting interest or cash in on cards you’ve held onto for decades, there is plenty of opportunity to buy and sell in this thriving niche of memorabilia. While condition is always king when it comes to value, even well-worn examples from the sport’s golden eras can fetch hundreds or thousands depending on the player featured. Let’s take a deeper look at what type of cards are in highest demand and where collectors can find valuable items to purchase or consign for sale.

The 1970s are generally considered the peak era for football and baseball card production before licensing deals diminished output in later years. As such, rookie cards and stars from this period tend to command the strongest prices in the present day market. For football, some of the most expensive options center around potential Hall of Famers like O.J. Simpson, Joe Namath, and Jim Brown. Namath’s 1969 Topps rookie in good condition can net over $10,000, while a pristine Brown from 1964 is worth upwards of $50,000. On the baseball side, stars like Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron, and Nolan Ryan continue to see steady value appreciation year after year for their 1960s/70s cards. A mint Clemente rookie from his time with the Pirates will set a collector back $150,000 easily.

Moving earlier, pre-war issues become more challenging to acquire in high grade but offer a true sense of history for those willing to invest significantly. Bronko Nagurski’s 1930s Goudey football cards are among the true Holy Grails, with just a few known to exist. Other top vintage football names like Red Grange, George Halas and Jim Thorpe also command top dollar for their 1920s-30s tobacco and store display issues whenever one crosses an auction block or show showcase table. Similarly in baseball, honors belong to legends like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Honus Wagner for their T206 brand tobacco era cards. No surprise then that a prime example of The Flying Dutchman’s famous Wagner could sell for millions one day if it ever became available.

There is an extensive infrastructure now in place for enthusiasts to locate desirable vintage stock for their collections, whether common players or true key pieces. Online auctions through companies like Heritage, Memory Lane, and Lelands provide a convenient worldwide marketplace, with daily auctions offering everything from common to premiere lots. Consignment with an established auction house can help card owners achieve top dollar for a single item or entire collection. Shows like the National Sports Collectors Convention and Chicago Sports Collectors Con also welcome thousands of attendees yearly where private individuals and dealers showcase and transact wares. Websites like TradingCardDB.com maintain a population registry and price guide to help set market values as well.

Given higher prices, some have found success buying and flipping cards as an investment rather than long-term collecting. Strategies involve targeting emerging young stars before they cement Hall of Fame careers, hunting undiscovered gem graded examples to capitalize on future regrades, or profiting off seasonal boom periods. Of course, this speculative approach carries risks if the market cools or players fail to pan out as expected long-term. Dedicated collecting for enjoyment and historical perspective tends to prove the safest strategy aligned with the hobby’s original roots.

When selling cards, two important factors to maximize value are proper preservation and third party certification. Ensuring cards are stored in protective holders like magnetic or penny sleeves helps maintain conditions which directly impact prices. Top grading services like PSA and BGS provide impartial integrity verification beneficial for high value transactions. Grades factor heavily into final sales amounts, with Mint specimens often commanding many times more than Excellent or Good copies. As a result, pre-grading offers sellers clarity on assets and buyers confidence in stated condition perceptions.

Whether looking for affordable team and player lots to build a collection or targeting six and seven-figure auction offerings, today’s vintage football and baseball card marketplace provides something for every budget. With iconic retired athletes still driving enthusiasm decades later, these cardboard pieces of sports history seem poised to remain a thriving specialty investment and collecting genre for years to come. Just handling cards from a sport’s earliest eras allows one to feel connected to the legends who once dominated between the lines.

TOPPS EBAY BASEBALL CARDS

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Topps is one of the most iconic brands in the sports card world and their baseball cards are some of the most popular collectibles available on eBay. Founded in 1938, Topps has been producing high quality baseball cards for over 80 years. From iconic rookie cards of legendary players to rare variations and errors, Topps cards hold a special place in the hearts of many collectors. Whether you are looking to build your childhood collection, find a key card to showcase a favorite player, or make a lucrative investment, eBay offers a massive selection of vintage and modern Topps baseball cards.

One of the reasons Topps cards are so highly collected on eBay is the company’s unmatched production history. They have been the exclusive producer of Major League Baseball cards since 1981, giving them rights to players’ names and images each year. From the tall boy design of the 1950s to the glossy photographs of today, each Topps series marks a specific period in the sport’s history. Older issues can take collectors back to the eras they grew up watching, while complete vintage sets sell for tens of thousands due to their scarcity.

Nostalgia of course plays a big role, but serious collectors also seek out Topps cards for their iconic rookie cards. finding rookie cards of all-time legends like Mickey Mantle, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and more will cost a fortune on eBay. There are still opportunities to acquire affordably graded examples of players inducted into the Hall of Fame later in their careers. Beyond the huge names, hunting for the first Topps cards of modern stars is also a popular pursuit, with examples of Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and others drawing high bids.

Variations have always held a special significance for Topps collectors too. In the early decades of production, errors or changed designs within a given year are highly valued. The 1952 Topps design change where the company logo was removed mid-print run is one of the most legendary variations. On eBay, even well-worn examples can sell for thousands. Similarly, the 1969 Topps design change where a small imprint was added to the backs is another hugely valuable variance. Modern production hiccups are also endlessly tracked, like the famed 2017 Update Manny Machado auto without a team name.

Whether you collect a specific team, player, or just enjoy the vintage artwork and designs, building a complete Topps baseball set from the 1950s through the modern era would be a monumental challenge. There are always opportunities on eBay to acquire keycards or subsets to make progress. The high number of auctions also provides a competitive market. With so many collectors hunting Topps and the brand’s commanding presence across eight decades of the sport, these cards are guaranteed to remain a pillar of the hobby for generations to come.

For investors, Topps cards represent a proven commodity for growth. Reliable population reports, well-established marker trends, and the company’s grip on the baseball card license greatly minimize risk compared to other collectibles. Dramatic price increases of superstar rookie cards over the past decade show there is still real potential in Topps if choosing the right players to focus on. Complete vintage sets are also virtually guaranteed to hold and gain value long-term. The accessibility and research resources available through eBay create a low-barrier environment to start profiting from one of the most storied brands in trading cards.

Authentication and grading are important aspects for collectors and investors to consider with vintage Topps cards on eBay as well. While raw examples can be found for bargain prices, it is always safest to verify condition and legitimacy when spending top-dollar. The Holy Grail 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in pristine condition sold for over $2 million – condition is everything. Trusted third party authentication and grading from professional companies like PSA and SGC helps buyers avoid Scams and feel confident in what they are purchasing. eBay’s Money Back Guarantee also helps protect against misrepresented items.

In summary, Topps’ unmatched eight decade legacy makes their baseball cards among the most iconic collectibles available on eBay. Whether acquiring rookie cards of all-time greats, tracking down rare variations from the early years, chasing modern stars, or building complete vintage sets – Topps cards offer passionate collectors a remarkably wide range of pursuit options. they are a staple of the hobby guaranteed to hold value long-term. With enough time and resources, a carefully selected Topps collection on eBay could take you from childhood nostalgia all the way to a sound investment portfolio of verifiable sporting history.