TOPPS 1973 BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1973 Topps baseball card set was issued during a time of transition in the hobby. While most kids were still eagerly pursuing complete sets, a growing collector culture was forming that appreciated certain cards for their scarcity and the players depicted. The 1973 set is notable for featuring future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Reggie Jackson, and Johnny Bench in their baseball primes. Several factors influence the value of these older issues, including limited production runs, the prominence of certain players, and their condition decades later. Here are some of the most valuable 1973 Topps cards to look out for:

#247 Nolan Ryan (Astros) – This card can fetch over $10,000 in Near Mint-Mint condition. Nolan Ryan was already establishing himself as a flamethrower for Houston, and this issue captures “The Ryan Express” in action, making it one of his more iconic early cards. Ryan’s Hall of Fame career only enhanced desire for any of his early rookie and star cards over the years. The combination of his talent and the card’s sharp visuals drive values high for graded gems of this coveted issue.

#97 Johnny Bench (Reds) – As arguably the greatest catcher in baseball history and a true legend of the 1970s Big Red Machine dynasty, any Bench card holds value. His main 1973 issue stands out as one of the most financially significant from the set. High-grade copies in Near Mint to Gem Mint condition have sold at auction for around $4,000-$6,000. Bench was a multi-time MVP and World Series champion entering his athletic prime during this transitional period for the hobby.

#21 Nolan Ryan (Astros) – A slightly different action shot of Ryan sporting his classic Astros uniform makes this a parallel key card to his main ’73 issue. While not quite as collectible on its own merits, graded Mint or better examples can still demand $2,000-$3,500 due to Ryan’s universal popularity. Having another prominent image from the season increased overall collector demand for any relic from his early Houston days.

#550 Hank Aaron (Braves) – While not quite the household name he would become with his record-breaking 715th home run just a year later, Aaron was already a living legend for the Braves in 1973. Near Mint or better copies of his final card produced while still an active player have reached $3,000 at auction. Aaron’s status as one of the game’s true goodwill ambassadors created reverence for any relics from his trailblazing career.

#1 Mike Schmidt (Phillies) – No one could have predicted Schmidt would go on to become a Phillies icon and third baseman for the ages back in 1973, his rookie season. But demand for the first card in the set featuring the future home run and RBI machine helps values climb to $2,000-$3,000 for well-preserved high-grade examples. Schmidt may not have been a household name yet, but collectors recognized his early breakout potential from this exciting introduction.

#610 Reggie Jackson (A’s) – “Mr. October” was already establishing his playoff heroics with Oakland in 1973 on the way to three World Series rings. Near Mint copies of this dynamic action pose from his “Swingin’ A’s” days top out around the $2,500 mark. Jackson’s brand of clutch hitting under pressure and five home run performance in the 1977 World Series only augmented interest in his early starring issues later in collector culture.

#660 Willie Mays (Mets) – One of the game’s true ambassadors and perhaps the greatest all-around player of all-time, Mays was playing out the string of his Hall of Fame career as a Met in ’73. Near Mint copies can command $1,500–$2,000 based on respect for Mays and his ceremonial farewell seasons in New York. His smooth left-handed swing remained picture perfect for collectors even in the twilight of a storied 22-year career.

#666 Brooks Robinson (Orioles) – While not quite in the same household name category as some others today, “The Human Vacuum Cleaner” was still a defensive wizard and key part of Baltimore’s world championship core in the early 70s. Near Mint ’73 examples often trade hands for $1,000-$1,500. Pitchers benefited from Robinson’s sure glove at third, and collectors feel the same appreciation for one of his final prominent starring cards from Baltimore.

#680 Roberto Clemente (Pirates) – A tragic end to one of baseball’s classiest careers helps drive values for any relic from Clemente’s playing days. Near Mint copies of this thoughtfully posed card generally exceed $1,000. Clemente was not only one of the game’s first true Latin American stars but also spent his entire 18-year career brilliantly representing the Pirates franchise. His legacy and humanitarian spirit created enduring reverence among fans and collectors alike long after his 1972 plane crash.

While values naturally fluctuate based on overall hobby conditions and the unique attributes of each individual card, these 1973 Topps issues of superstar players and future Hall of Famers continue capturing collectors’ imaginations and breaking hobby records when pristine examples emerge on the market. The combination of memorable poses, prominent players and franchises, and the cards’ influence during a pivotal shift toward serious collection all contribute to their blues-chip status among vintage baseball memorabilia from the 1970s and beyond.

ALEC BOHM BASEBALL CARDS

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Alec Bohm Baseball Cards: Tracking the Rise of a Top Phillies Prospect

Alec Bohm was drafted third overall by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2018 MLB Draft out of Wichita State University. Considered one of the top college bats in the draft class, Bohm had an impressive collegiate career that saw him earn multiple All-American honors. Since being drafted, Bohm has quickly risen through the Phillies farm system and established himself as one of the top prospects in baseball. This rise has been reflected in the value and demand for Alec Bohm baseball cards in the trading card market.

2018 Bowman Draft Alec Bohm RC

Bohm’s first appearance in the baseball card world came with 2018 Bowman Draft, the set that features the newest draft class. His rookie card from this set carries a photo of him in his Wichita State uniform from college. Despite being a highly touted draft pick, demand and prices for Bohm’s 2018 Bowman Draft RC were fairly modest when the set first released. As Bohm’s prospect stock rose in 2019, so too did interest in his rookie card. PSA 10 gem mint copies of the 2018 Bowman Draft Alec Bohm RC now sell for $100-150, a substantial increase from when the set first came out. The card remains one of the key early Bohm rookie cards for collectors to pursue.

2019 Bowman Chrome Alec Bohm Prospect Card

Bohm’s breakout season in 2019 at High-A and Double-A is when the hype around him as a prospect really took off. He slashed .301/.378/.534 over two minor league levels that year. This performance translated to increased interest in Bohm cards from the 2019 Bowman Chrome set, which is considered the premier modern baseball card product for prospects. His prospect card from that year features a photo of him in Phillies minor league gear. PSA 10 copies of the 2019 Bowman Chrome Alec Bohm card now sell for $300-400, showing how much his prospect stock grew after 2019. It remains one of the holy grail Bohm rookie cards for high-end collectors.

2020 Topps Alec Bohm Rookie Cards

Bohm’s continued success in 2019 and 2020 Spring Training led the Phillies to add him to their expanded player pool for the COVID-shortened 2020 season. While he didn’t make the Opening Day roster, Bohm got his first MLB playing time later that year. This debut activated his Topps rookie card status. There were two main Alec Bohm rookie cards released as part of the 2020 Topps set – the base card and a special photo variation. Both feature Bohm in a Phillies uniform from his MLB debut season. PSA 10 copies of the standard 2020 Topps Alec Bohm RC sell for $150-200, while the photo variation commands $300-500 due to its rarer parallel status. These remain two of the most iconic and desirable Bohm rookie cards for any collection.

2021 Topps Alec Bohm Update Rookie

After showing promise in his 2020 MLB debut, Bohm earned a starting job with the Phillies in 2021 and had a solid season as their everyday third baseman. This led Topps to feature him again in their 2021 Update Series, the set that highlights players who broke out or had standout seasons during the current year. Bohm’s 2021 Topps Update card carries over his photo from the standard 2020 Topps RC but now with an “Update” designation. PSA 10 copies have sold for $100-150, appealing to collectors looking to add an Alec Bohm card from his first full MLB season.

Top Prospect & Autograph Cards

Along with his standard rookie cards, Bohm has appeared prominently in the high-end prospect and autograph card products that target the hobby’s biggest spenders. His prized cards include 2018 Bowman Sterling Purple Refractor /50, 2019 Bowman Chrome Yellow Refractor Auto /150, and 2020 Topps Chrome Orange Refractor Auto /25. PSA 10 gems of these rare parallel and autograph cards have sold at auction for thousands of dollars, a true testament to Bohm’s status as one of baseball’s elite prospects. Even ungraded copies still command big prices in the secondary market.

Future Outlook

As Bohm continues developing in the majors with the Phillies, interest and prices for his existing rookie cards are likely to remain strong. If he lives up to his talent and becomes an established star player, his earliest cards like the 2018 Bowman Draft RC could appreciate substantially in value as his career progresses. Collectors would also be keen to add any new Alec Bohm cards released by Topps or other manufacturers during his career. With his impressive minor league track record and promising MLB start, Bohm appears poised to be an impact player for Philadelphia for years to come. This bodes well for the long term prospects of his already coveted baseball cards.

OFFER UP BASEBALL CARDS

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Buying and selling baseball cards is a popular hobby and side business for many sports card collectors and investors. With sites like eBay being so established in the online card marketplace, up-and-coming apps like OfferUp have become a popular alternative for local card trading. OfferUp allows users to buy, sell, or trade just about anything locally with ease. Its simplified photo-based interface makes it easy to browse current listings near you and message other users.

For baseball card collectors looking to downsize their collections, trade duplicates, or make some money off cards they no longer want, OfferUp can be a great option. Here are some tips for using OfferUp to buy and sell baseball cards:

Creating a Listing: When posting your baseball cards for sale on OfferUp, be sure to take clear, well-lit photos showing all angles of the cards. For lots of cards, take photos of samples along with an overview shot. Include accurate details on the card condition, year, set or series, notable players, and any other relevant information in the listing description. Be honest about flaws. Price your cards competitively based on recent eBay sold listings for comparisons.

Payment Options: OfferUp allows local cash transactions only for safety. You can list “shippable” as an option and accept PayPal for payment, but you miss out on some of OfferUp’s local customer base that way. Since most card buyers want to see condition in person anyways, sticking with local cash sales is probably best. Meet in a public place for the exchange.

Grading Cards: Generally on OfferUp, people are selling raw (ungraded) cards. But if you have cards already professionally graded by PSA, BGS, SGC, etc., mentioning the grade helps buyers assess condition and value faster. Be sure to note any subgrades like centering that may impact a card’s final worth. Higher grade cards like PSA 10 Gem Mint will still attract national interest and you may consider accepting shipping in those cases.

Sorting Inventory: Whether selling individually priced cards or lots/collections, organize your items logically so buyers can find what they want easily. Sellers often categorize by sport, player, set/year, team, position, or grade/condition. Save buyers time by having a sorted inventory system in place. You can also sell incomplete sets if any popular insert cards are included.

Negotiating Prices: Most sellers on OfferUp expect at least some haggling on prices. Be open to reasonable offers that are still profitable for you. If moving multiple items together, present package deals as an incentive. You can also consider trades plus cash if the other person has cards you collect. Just be sure any agreed upon price factors in the cash you need to walk away with after a deal.

Building Credibility: Leave positive reviews for past buyers to build up your seller rating over time. Mention your eBay username if also active there. Show identification for peace of mind. Communicate promptly and follow through on commitments to earn repeat business and referrals through word of mouth. Taking the time to build trust leads to more sales opportunities.

Market Trends: Stay updated on hot rookie cards, Hall of Fame inductees, milestone cards, retired player lots that may attract premium interest. Note upcoming release dates for new sets to coincide sales windows. But also offer bargains on value lots for those browsing budgets. A mix of price points helps attract the broadest customer base.

Finding Inventory: Many OfferUp card sellers find inventory through personal collections, card shows, online breaks/group breaks, or even store/stadium box/hanger/blaster extractions. Know the general values of chase cards beforehand to avoid overpaying. Develop sources over time as your selling experience grows.

Local Card Shows: Take inventory to local card shows and conventions with tables. Swap, shop the floor, and promote your online/app storefront. These events expose your wares to many potential buyers at once and can spark new hobby connections and sales leads through networking face-to-face. Bring business cards for those who live out of area.

Standing Out: Show personality in listings through photos, descriptions with stories/stats, customized backdrops, and handwritten note thanking serious inquirers for their interest. Share your collecting interests and strike up conversations over messaging to build rapport before meetings. Outliers attract attention and help you stand apart from the competition.

OfferUp Tips: Message sellers promptly if interested in their listed items and bring cash ready to seal deals since seller slots fill up fast. Use saved searches for players, teams etc. and turn on notifications to stay on top of new inventory. Be considerate of others’ availability when requesting to meet. The OfferUp platform makes local card trading friendly, safe and fun for sellers and buyers alike.

Selling cards locally through OfferUp leverages its growing user base and practical format. With some strategy and quality service, collectors can succeed building a customer network right in their own neighborhood and beyond. For those looking to downsize or supplement incomes, OfferUp opens the door to new hobby opportunities through an engaging grassroots approach.

DOLLAR GENERAL HAVE BASEBALL CARDS

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Dollar General Stores: An Untapped Resource for Baseball Card Collectors

Dollar General has become one of the largest retail chains in the United States in recent decades, with over 16,000 stores located across the country. While they are primarily known for offering everyday essentials at affordable prices, many collectors may be unaware that Dollar General also allocates shelf space to trading cards in many of their stores. Upon closer inspection, collectors can frequently find bargain packs of baseball cards and other sport cards amongst the other sundries. With Dollar General’s widespread reach across small towns and rural areas, their stores represent an often overlooked resource for collectors to potentially find treasures.

The History of Cards at Dollar General
Dollar General first began carrying trading cards in the 1990s as the collectibles boom was in full swing. Like many other general retailers of the time, they saw trading cards as a profitable side category that could draw in customers. Their early selections focused mainly on the hottest mainstream brands like Fleer, Topps, and Donruss. Packs were priced affordably, usually between 50 cents to a dollar. This allowed kids and casual collectors the chance to rip packs on a budget. Through the late 90s and 2000s, Dollar General maintained a core selection of the yearly MLB releases.

As interest in cards began to wane industry-wide in the late 2000s, Dollar General’s offerings declined as well. Shelf space that once held a variety of sports was reallocated to more consistently selling products. By the early 2010s, only a smattering of Dollar General stores still carried any cards at all. In recent years the collecting hobby has surged in popularity once again. Seizing the opportunity, Dollar General has slowly but surely expanded their trading card selections at many locations to meet renewed interest.

Current Baseball Card Selections at Dollar General
Today, the trading card aisle at Dollar General tends to be much smaller than a dedicated card shop. Dedicated collectors would be wise to still give their local Dollar General a look. Some stores now devote an entire endcap to cards, while others may have just a few scattered packs and boxes. The selection varies greatly depending on individual store managers, but there are some mainstays.

Topps Series 1 and 2 are reliably stocked each season for around $1 per pack. Other Topps flagship sets like Update, Heritage, and Archives may be found as well. Dollar General also carries various discount brands like Donruss, Leaf, and Panini. These sub-$1 packs provide an inexpensive way to hunt rookie cards or parallels. In the non-sports card aisle, collectors can sometimes discover returned or overstocked hobby boxes of older releases priced well below secondary market rates.

Beyond packs and boxes, Dollar General has also gotten into the baseball card accessory business in recent years. Card savers, toploaders, and magnetic sheets can be found for protecting valuable pulls. Collectors on a budget will appreciate the affordable prices on these essential supplies. Some stores may even stock complete team sets, factory sets, or value packs during the height of the season. And around major card conventions, Dollar General has been known to receive shipments of special convention exclusives or promotional packs.

Benefits of Scouting Dollar General for Cards
For collectors living in more remote areas underserved by card shops, Dollar General can be a literal game-changer. Many small towns may have only a Dollar General as their sole retail outlet. This provides a place to potentially find new releases, trade with other local collectors, or just fuel one’s collecting hobby in general. Even for collectors close to dedicated card stores, Dollar General serves as a lower stakes place to rip packs. Kids can enjoy the thrill of the hunt without breaking the bank.

The convenience factor should not be overlooked either. Dollar General is found on almost every main street and in the busiest strip malls. This means cards are usually just a short drive away versus a special trip into the city. Busy collectors appreciate being able to grab a quick pack during an errand run. And Dollar General’s later store hours are a plus for those who can only hunt at night. While selections may not match a LCS, Dollar General helps keep the collecting spirit alive in many small towns across the country. Savvy collectors would be wise to check their local Dollar General periodically, one may just find a hidden gem.

While not a traditional sports card retailer, Dollar General has quietly become a dependable resource for baseball cards and supplies in recent years. Their widespread store presence, especially in rural areas, provides access for collectors who otherwise may not have a local shop. Even urban collectors can benefit from the low stakes ripping and bargain prices. By expanding their card offerings, Dollar General is helping introduce new generations to the hobby and fueling nostalgia for collectors of all budgets. Their untapped potential makes them a retailer serious collectors cannot overlook.

SIGNED BASEBALL CARDS EBAY

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Signed baseball cards hold a special place for collectors and fans alike. Getting a card signed by a favorite player in person can create a lifelong memory. Over the years, as players have retired from the game, finding opportunities to get signatures becomes much harder. This is where eBay has become a major player in the market for signed memorabilia.

eBay allows collectors from all over the world to find signed cards from their favorite players, both past and present. With tens of thousands of new listings added daily, there is always a wide selection of autographed cards available on the site. While buying signed cards online eliminates the personal interaction of an in-person signature, eBay provides authentication certification to help ensure buyers are receiving legitimate autographs.

Some tips for buyers shopping for signed cards on eBay include doing research on recent sold prices to understand market values. Paying too much over market value can hurt resale potential down the road. Checking a seller’s feedback rating and asking any questions upfront also helps avoid post-purchase surprises. For valuable vintage signatures, requesting a certificate of authenticity from a reputable autograph authentication company provides extra security.

When it comes to popular players, rookie cards tend to command the highest prices due to their significance in a player’s career. For example, a signed Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps rookie card regularly sells for thousands on eBay. Other all-time greats like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner and Mike Trout rookies consistently trade hands for significant sums.

Rookie cards are not the only ones that attract high bids, however. Unique signedparallel or serial-numbered inserts from sets also appeal greatly to collectors looking to own one-of-a-kind items. Parallel cards with low print runs signed directly on the image itself also sell for top dollar. For modern collectors, rare autographs of superstar players at the height of their careers in action photos always gain attention.

In addition to individual signed cards, larger lots with multiple autographs from one player offer value as well. While each individual card may not carry a high price tag, many enthusiasts enjoy building complete auto collections over time through group purchases. eBay also allows buyers to find autographed memorabilia beyond just cards, including balls, bats, photos, jerseys and other equipment signed throughout a player’s career.

Vintage legends from the early decades of the game before the 1970s can be some of the most expensive icons to acquire. Names like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner and Cy Young routinely sell for four figures and up due to their nostalgia and how long they have been collecting dust in private hands. Even common signed tobacco cards of dead-ball era greats carry steep price points compared to modern players.

On the upper end, a mint quality 1911 T206 Honus Wagner tobacco card in a PSA/DNA GEMAuto 10 grade sold for $2.8 million on eBay in 2016. While signature prices of that magnitude are extreme, most signed 1910s tobacco cards still trade in the five-figure range depending on condition and the particular HOFer depicted. For vintage cardboard that old, condition is absolutely critical to ratings and value.

When buying modern players, tracking statistics and accomplishments helps calculate potential ROI. Young stars early in their careers can produce affordable autos that gain exponentially in value posthumously. Derek Jeter and Chipper Jones rookie signed cards sell much higher today than 20 years ago. For active greats, chasing division titles, championships or career milestones often corresponds to temporary price hikes surrounding those achievements too.

While individual auctions are competitive affairs, finding signed cards from buy-it-now listings allows collectors to transact at fixed prices. Many individual collectors and mom-and-pop sports shops leverage fixed listings to guarantee sales at fair market rates. Items may not achieve peak secondary prices this way, but volume transactions remain steady. Buyers comfortable with market values can uncover deals by purchasing this route as well.

For obtaining unsigned vintage cards at affordable prices, eBay supplies a large unsaturated market. Completing older high-grade sets can occur gradually through combination buying. With so many collectors liquidating entire collections at once, comprehensive lot listings provide opportunities to fill wantlists across different eras. Unsigned cards allow growing a PC on a tighter budget until funds allow upgrading individual pieces to signed versions later.

EBay hosts a vibrant marketplace for signed sports cards appealing to every budget. Whether starting a collection or chasing crowned jewels to commemorate favorite athletes, authentication programs and buyer protections exist to promote secure transactions. For passionate autograph hunters worldwide, eBay represents the leading online bazaar to obtain officially signed pieces of baseball history.

1984 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1984 Topps baseball card set is one of the most highly collected issues from the 1980s. With 712 total cards issued, the 1984 set featured most of the biggest stars from that MLB season and some memorable rookie cards. Now over 35 years old, many of the cards from this set have increased greatly in value for collectors. Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the top 1984 Topps baseball cards and their estimated values today:

Ryne Sandberg (#138) – One of the true superstars of the 1980s, Ryne Sandberg had already established himself as a star second baseman for the Cubs by 1984. His terrific performance and multiple All-Star selections made his base rookie card a highly coveted item. In near mint to mint condition, Sandberg’s 1984 Topps card can fetch $100-200 today. Higher graded gem mint 10 copies have sold for over $500.

Kirby Puckett (#255) – Puckett’s rookie season in 1984 showed glimpses of what was to come as one of the decade’s best all-around players. An exciting five-tool talent, Puckett went on to a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Twins. His rookie card remains quite valuable for collectors, grading at $75-150 for near mint, up to $500+ in top condition.

Dwight Gooden (#337) – “Doc” Gooden stormed onto the MLB scene in 1984 for the Mets and immediately established himself as one of the best young pitchers in baseball history. Gooden’s dominant rookie year performance, which included a no-hitter, made his rookie card immensely popular. Even well-worn near mint Gooden rookies sell for $75-150 today. Mint copies can reach $400-600 or more depending on the exact grade.

Don Mattingly (#529) – Mattingly was the best young hitter in MLB in the mid-1980s as the Yankees’ first baseman. By 1984, he was already a two-time All-Star and batting champ. Not surprisingly, his card from that season is one of the most significant of the entire set. Mattingly rookies in top near mint condition tend to sell for $150-250. A pristine mint 10 copy would likely auction for $800-1500 or more given his popularity.

Jack Morris (#565) – A workhorse starter for the Detroit Tigers throughout the 1980s, Morris was near the peak of his career in 1984 when this card was issued. He won 20 games that season to reinforce his status as an ace. Mint Morris rookies have sold recently for $100-250, making it a card of significance for Tigers collectors.

Ozzie Smith (#599) – Already a fan favorite and elite defensive wizard for the Cardinals in 1984, “The Wizard” was also developing into a solid offensive contributor. His slick fielding made him a highlight reel staple on sports programs. Near mint Smith rookies have gone for $75-150 at auction while mint grades reach the $300-500 range.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#618) – Ripken was still viewed as a promising young infielder for the Orioles in 1984 before emerging as one of the game’s ironmen. His later accomplishments have enhanced the allure of his early cards like this one significantly. A PSA Gem Mint 10 Ripken 1984 rookie sold in 2020 for over $5000, but more typical prices are $150-300 for near mint.

Wade Boggs (#629) – The hit machine was at the peak of his powers for Boston in 1984 when he batted .365. Boggs went on to compile some of the most impressive batting stats in MLB history during the 1980s and 1990s. His 1984 Topps cards remain notable for Red Sox collectors with near mint copies settling in the $75-150 range.

Roger Clemens (#643) – Already one of the games hardest throwers in 1984, Clemens marked his arrival as a true ace that season as he began racking up strikeouts for Boston. His rocket right arm made him must-see TV before steroid scandals tainted his career. Top graded mint Clemens rookies have crossed the $500 mark.

Goose Gossage (#656) – One of the most intimidating closers in baseball history was still an effective reliever for the Yankees and Padres in 1984. His legendary status was cemented by this time. Near mint Gossage rookies sell for $50-100 today due to his popularity.

Jeff Leonard (#672) – As a highly-touted rookie for the Giants in 1984, Leonard showed promise before injuries derailed his career. But his rookie card remains notable for collectors as one of the higher-numbered cards in the set. Near mint Leonard rookies sell in the $50-75 range nowadays.

The 1984 Topps baseball card set remains a highly collectible vintage issue among fans of the 1980s era. Keys like the rookie cards of Sandberg, Gooden, Mattingly, Smith, and Ripken are especially desirable for advanced collectors. Even common cards from this old-fashioned design set can hold value purely as products of their time. For enthusiasts of 1980s card art and players, it’s a great vintage to consider exploring.

BASEBALL CARDS SACRAMENTO

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Baseball cards have a long history in Sacramento dating back over a century. Some of the earliest baseball cards were produced in the late 1800s as a promotional item by tobacco companies like Allen & Ginter and Old Judge to help sell their products. These vintage tobacco era cards from the late 1800s and early 1900s are highly sought after by collectors today.

While Sacramento did not have a Major League Baseball team of its own until the arrival of the Sacramento River Cats in 2000, the city was still heavily involved in minor league and amateur baseball throughout the 20th century. Several minor league teams called Sacramento home over the years and helped foster a local passion for the game. This local enthusiasm for baseball translated to a robust market for collecting baseball cards in Sacramento as well.

One of the earliest minor league teams to play in Sacramento was the Sacramento Solons, who were members of the Pacific Coast League from 1900 to 1957. The Solons featured many future major leaguers during their run and their players’ cards would have been popular items for local collectors during the early 20th century. Other minor league teams that played in Sacramento included the Sacramento Senators (1936-1960), Sacramento Raiders (1961-1962), and Sacramento Surge (2002-2004). Cards featuring players from these teams can still be found in the collections of dedicated Sacramento area collectors today.

The rise of modern mass-produced baseball cards in the post-World War 2 era coincided with Sacramento’s increasing passion for the game. Companies like Topps, Bowman, and Fleer began producing affordable packs of cards that could be found in local drug stores, grocery stores, and card shops. Young collectors in Sacramento eagerly snapped up these packs, hoping to collect full sets and chase rare cards featuring their favorite players. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, baseball card collecting became a hugely popular hobby among Sacramento’s youth.

Two seminal baseball card sets from the early modern era that are especially prized by Sacramento collectors today are the iconic 1952 Topps and 1954 Topps sets. These sets documented the players and teams from when Sacramento native Ken Griffey Sr. broke into the major leagues in the early 1970s with the Big Red Machine Cincinnati Reds. Local collectors take pride in finding well-preserved examples of cards featuring Griffey Sr. and his teammates from these classic 1950s Topps issues.

In the 1970s, baseball card collecting exploded into a nationwide phenomenon. More children in Sacramento than ever before were amassing collections in shoeboxes and binders. This was also when the hobby started to take on a strong speculative investment aspect, as savvy collectors began to recognize the long-term value of accruing mint condition vintage and rare rookie cards. Shows catering to collectors began popping up regularly in the Sacramento area as well.

Two of the most famous baseball card shows in Sacramento history took place at Cal Expo. In July 1990, the largest sports card show ever was held at Cal Expo, drawing over 20,000 attendees. The show was a spectacle, with hundreds of dealers from around the world selling and trading every imaginable type of card under one massive roof. Another legendary Cal Expo card show occurred in August 1993. This show saw eager collectors camping out overnight to gain early entry, a sign of just how intense the card-collecting frenzy had become.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Sacramento native and MLB superstar Jeff Kent emerged on the scene. His rookie cards from 1988 Topps and 1989 Fleer were hot commodities for Sacramento area collectors eager to own a piece of their hometown hero. To this day, high grade examples of Kent’s rookie cards remain a point of Sacramento baseball card pride. Other notable Sacramento-area players who were featured prominently in collections of the late 20th century included pitchers Trevor Hoffman and Mark Gardner.

While the speculative bubble of the early 1990s card market eventually burst, interest in Sacramento never fully declined. Local card shops that had thrived for decades, such as A&M Sports Collectibles in North Highlands and Collector’s Corner in Citrus Heights, continued to serve diehard collectors. In the 2000s, the arrival of the Sacramento River Cats reinvigorated the city’s passion for affiliated professional baseball. Today, a new generation of Sacramento youth are following in the card-collecting footsteps of their parents and grandparents, keeping this time-honored hobby alive in the capital city.

Whether collecting vintage tobacco cards, 1950s/60s issues, or modern prospecting for the next Jeff Kent, baseball cards have been an integral part of Sacramento’s sports culture for over a century. The local collecting community remains dedicated to preserving the history captured in these cardboard treasures while also enjoying the hobby’s nostalgic charms. Cards chronicling Sacramento’s past and present baseball stars continue to bring collectors together and remind many of their earliest memories with the national pastime.

STL CARDS BASEBALL LIVE

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The St. Louis Cardinals are one of baseball’s most historic franchises. With 11 World Series championships and over 10,000 regular season wins, the Cardinals have established themselves as one of America’s favorite baseball teams. While the Cardinals have witnessed plenty of success over their long history, their passionate fanbase has been a defining part of the franchise. Cardinals fans are famous across MLB for creating an electric home field advantage at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. No matter if the Cardinals are in a playoff race or rebuilding phase, Cardinals fans show up in droves to cheer on their beloved “Redbirds.”

Catching a Cardinals game live provides fans with an unparalleled baseball experience. From the pre-game festivities to the walk-off celebration, attending a Cardinals home date at Busch Stadium is an event like no other. Cardinals fans arrive early to browse the many concession stands and game used memorabilia shops located around the ballpark. Popular pre-game eats include Ted Drewes frozen custard, BBQ from Pappy’s, and garlicky baguettes from Panera. One can hear the anticipation building as game time approaches, with fans of all ages sporting their Cardinal red as they take their seats.

The game day atmosphere at Busch Stadium is electric. When the Cardinals take the field for pre-game warmups, the crowd erupts with cheers to welcome their hometown favorites. During the National Anthem, Cardinals fans stand united with their hands over their hearts, proudly singing “O Say Can You See” at the top of their lungs. Introduction of the starting lineup is a spirited affair, with each Cardinal player receiving rousing ovations from the diehard faithful in attendance. Once first pitch is thrown, the crowd is fully locked into every at-bat and play on the field.

Cardinals fans become the true “home field advantage” with their constant encouragement and noise making. It is not uncommon to see multiple “Let’s Go Cardinals!” chants break out during crucial moments of the game. When a Cardinal accomplishes a key hit, out, or play – you can expect a deafening roar to follow. This sustained energy from the packed stadium stands aids the Cardinals greatly over their opponents. Visiting teams often struggle to communicate or stay focused with over 45,000 screaming Cardinal fans cheering against them.

Special traditions have developed that make a Cardinals game a once-in-a-lifetime experience. During the seventh inning stretch, the entire crowd joins together in singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” On ” root, root, root for the Cardinals!” the decibel level reaches its highest point. After the final out of a Cardinal win, the classic Frank Sinatra song “That’s Life” plays over the speakers as victorious players celebrate on the field and fans chant “Who’s your daddy!” in celebration.

For over 100 years, Cardinals fans have tuned in religiously to hear legendary broadcasters describe the action live on KMOX Radio. Current play-by-play man Mike Shannon has been delivering his iconic “That’s a winner!” call following Cardinal victories since 1972. His off-the-cuff storytelling and infectious enthusiasm for the Cards brings another element to attending a game in-person. Fans crowd around radios in the stands, taking in Shannon’s descriptions to enhance their experience.

No Cardinal game experience is complete without a signature Ballpark Village visit. This sports and entertainment complex connected to the Third Base Gate features numerous restaurants, bars and live music venues. On game days, Ballpark Village is absolutely packed for hours with fans socializing and taking in the electric atmosphere. Popular spots include McGurk’s, Harry’s, Budweiser Brew House and the new Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum. Wandering through the Village on a game day is like being at a giant block party dedicated entirely to Cardinal baseball.

Throughout the ballgame, energetic staff known as the “Fredbird Crew” keep fans entertained between innings with hilarious skits and interactive games. High-flying Fredbird Race competitions and t-shirt launches into the grandstands get the crowd pumped. After the final out and a Cardinal victory, the team triumphal march to the pitcher’s mound for celebratory photos with the crowd creates an unforgettable memory. Exiting Busch Stadium after a late night win, buzzing Cardinal fans continue their celebration by replaying highlights and discussing what they witnessed – a true lively experience that can only be had by catching a Cardinals game live.

For over a century, St. Louis Cardinals baseball has been synonymous with tradition, excitement and devoted fans. Attending a game at Busch Stadium provides a chance to experience this rich history first hand and become part of what makes Cardinals baseball so special. Whether cheering on a playoff push or enduring a tough season with the boys in red, Cardinals fans unite behind their team through triumph and adversity. Their lively support acts as the true “sixth man,” constantly energizing the Cardinals to greater heights. Catching a game in-person allows one to fully appreciate everything that makes Cardinals baseball unique – making a live Cardinals game a “bucket list” event for any true fan of America’s pastime.

BEST 2019 TOPPS BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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The 2019 Topps baseball card series featured many highly sought after rookie cards from some of the game’s brightest young stars. As the players’ careers progress and living collectors continue to fuel demand, these rookie cards hold strong long-term value and appreciation potential. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most desirable 2019 Topps rookie cards on the market today.

Pete Alonso, New York Mets (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Alonso burst onto the MLB scene in 2019, smashing a rookie record 53 home runs and winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. His Topps Chrome rookie refractor /99 is one of the true heavyweight rookie cards from the 2019 set and a cornerstone for any collection. Graded PSA/BGS 10 examples now sell for well over $1000.

Fernando Tatis Jr, San Diego Padres (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Tatis immediately established himself as a budding superstar in 2019 with his elite power/speed combo and flair for the dramatic. Like Alonso, his Topps Chrome refractor rookie /99 is one of the most coveted 2019 rookie cards. High-grade copies regularly sell for $500-$1000 already.

Eloy Jimenez, Chicago White Sox (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Jimenez showed prodigious power as a 21-year-old in 2019, slugging 31 home runs in his rookie campaign. His Topps Chrome refractor rookie is a strong long-term hold, with PSA 10 copies selling in the $300-$500 range currently.

Victor Robles, Washington Nationals (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Robles established himself as a budding star and won a ring with the 2019 Nationals. While not quite the household name of others on this list yet, his refractor rookie remains a solid long-term investment graded PSA/BGS 10 for $150-$300.

Yordan Alvarez, Houston Astros (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Alvarez smashed 27 home runs in just 87 games as a rookie, finishing second in AL Rookie of the Year voting. Despite Houston’s sign-stealing scandal, his refractor rookie remains a strong long-term hold, with PSA 10 copies around $150-$250.

Cavan Biggio, Toronto Blue Jays (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Biggio showed excellent plate discipline and pop as a rookie, with 16 home runs and a .369 OBP. As a legacy prospect and part of Toronto’s rebuild, his refractor rookie carries long-term appeal, selling PSA 10 for $100-$200 currently.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Toronto Blue Jays (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): “Vlad Jr.” was one of the most hyped prospects ever and did not disappoint in his rookie year. Despite some struggles, his prodigious talent and Blue Jays future make his refractor one of the safest long-term investments at $100+ PSA 10.

Keston Hiura, Milwaukee Brewers (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Hiura launched 19 home runs in just 84 games as one of 2019’s breakout rookies. As Milwaukee’s new young star, his refractor rookie shows strong potential, selling PSA 10 for $75-$150 already.

Jack Flaherty, St. Louis Cardinals (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Flaherty emerged as an ace in 2019 with a minuscule 0.97 ERA after the All-Star break. His refractor rookie is a solid long-term hold for Cardinals fans and collectors, selling PSA 10 for $75-$125.

Chris Paddack, San Diego Padres (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Paddack looked like a future ace as well in his rookie year, posting a stellar 3.33 ERA. As a key part of San Diego’s young core, his refractor rookie shows strong long-term promise at $75+ PSA 10.

Kyle Tucker, Houston Astros (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Tucker showcased his five-tool talent in his September call-up. As Houston’s future left fielder, his refractor rookie remains undervalued today at $50+ PSA 10 with breakout potential.

Nick Senzel, Cincinnati Reds (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Injuries hampered Senzel’s rookie year but he remains a possible future star. His refractor rookie is a solid long-shot speculation buy at $40+ PSA 10 with Cincinnati re-build upside.

Mike Soroka, Atlanta Braves (Topps Chrome Refractor RC #132): Soroka emerged as Atlanta’s ace with a stellar 2.68 ERA as a rookie. His refractor rookie looks like a strong long-term hold, selling PSA 10 for $40+ already in a strong market for Braves prospects.

The 2019 Topps Chrome rookie refractor cards of Alonso, Tatis Jr., Jimenez and others represent some of the most coveted modern rookie cards available. For collectors pursuing long-term value appreciation through today’s emerging young stars, these cards offer an excellent foundation. As the careers of these rookies continue to develop, so too will demand and prices for their flagship rookie cards from the 2019 Topps series.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CANADA

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While Topps baseball cards are synonymous with the sport of baseball in the United States, their history in Canada is just as interesting. Topps first began distributing their iconic baseball cards north of the border in the early 1950s, coinciding with a growing interest in the American pastime within Canada.

In the post-World War II era, baseball was rapidly gaining new Canadian fans through exposure via radio broadcasts of MLB games. Homegrown talent like Jackie Robinson also helped spur interest among Canadian youth. To capitalize on the rising popularity of both baseball and trading cards, Topps made the strategic decision to expand distribution of their shiny cardboard collectibles into Canada.

The initial Canadian release of Topps baseball cards came in 1952. That year’s set featured many of the same players and designs that American collectors received. However, Topps had to overcome several challenges unique to the Canadian marketplace that initially hampered sales growth. Chief among these was the concern that Canadian children would not identify as strongly with American ballplayers they didn’t regularly see on their local teams and in their national pastimes of hockey and lacrosse.

To help address this, Topps’ Canadian distribution partners like Brooklyn Advertising emphasized multi-sport card lines in the early 1950s that included imagery from hockey, lacrosse, and other non-American pastimes. These helped acclimate young Canadian collectors to the novel concept of trading cards before focusing collections solely on baseball heroes. Topps also briefly experimented with sets featuring players from the farm system of the Brooklyn Dodgers, whose games were broadcast on Canadian radio during this time period.

Gradually, Topps gained more traction in Canada as iconic ballplayers like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and a young Hank Aaron captured the imagination of collectors. Demand grew year-over-year through the 1950s despite some distribution challenges. Topps relied initially on local candy and tobacco shops to stock their wax-wrapped packs of gum and cards, but obtaining consistent shelf-space proved difficult across Canada’s vast geography.

Through the 1960s, Topps cemented its status as the premier brand for baseball cards in Canada. Sets became ever-more popular, buoyed by the rise of Canadian stars in the major leagues like Ferguson Jenkins, Richie Ashburn, and others. While still primarily obtaining cards through cross-border importation, Topps opened its first Canadian office in the late 1960s to better coordinate distribution efforts domestically.

This move paid dividends as the 1970s ushered in baseball’s “golden age” and interest in sports cards surged on both sides of the border. Led by the dominance of the Cincinnati Big Red Machine and dynasty-era New York Yankees, the lore and stats encapsulated in annual Topps sets kept legions of Canadian kids happily trading in schoolyards. Rising disposable incomes also meant teens and young adults joined the card collecting craze.

To keep pace with escalating demand, Topps actively solicited larger Canadian retailers as distribution partners including convenience stores, bookshops, and hobby stores. The brand also signed licensing deals with candymakers like Tebbutt’s and Coco to include MLB trading cards inside chocolate bars, gum packs, and other confections sold nationwide. These broadened Topps’ availability from coast-to-coast.

Throughout the 1980s boom in sports memorabilia speculation, Topps baseball reigned as the preeminent marque in Canada. Every release sparked lines outside stores and frenzied openings of fresh wax boxes. Rookie stars like Mark McGwire and Ken Griffey Jr. broke records for the most valuable rookie cards in the Canadian secondary market. Homegrown heroes pedigrees like Larry Walker further stirred collectors on this side of the 49th parallel.

Major League Baseball’s 1994-95 player strike threatened the trading card industry as interest waned, but Topps endured as fans’ steadfast connection to the game. During the steroid and statistical era that followed, some Canadian collectors grew critical of inflated offensive stats. However, Topps maintained relevance by shifting sets’ focus to commemorate milestones, tell players’ stories, and preserve baseball’s historic moments irrespective of current controversies.

Today, despite competition from upper-tier brands like Bowman and Panini, Topps remains many Canadian collectors’ first baseball card love. Whether searching antique stores for 1950s gems or hunting the latest inserts at hobby shops, the iconic Topps design continues to stir passion for the cardboard hobby among fans young and old. Through seven decades of highs and lows, Topps baseball cards have been intrinsically woven into the fabric of baseball fandom across Canada.