1999 PACIFIC BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1999 Pacific trading card set is considered a favorite among collectors due to the inclusion of star players from the late 1990s as well as the attractive visual design of the cards. The set includes 264 total cards featuring players, managers, and even a memorabilia card. With over two decades having passed since the set was released, many of the cards have increased substantially in value. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1999 Pacific set and what they may be worth to collectors today.

Perhaps the most valuable regular issue card from the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. sticker card, numbered 265/264. Griffey was one of the biggest stars in baseball during the late 90s and his iconic swinging pose made this card extremely popular. In near mint condition, unopened examples of this Griffey sticker card regularly sell for over $200. Another Griffey card that commands a high price is the Gold Medal Award Leaders card, which honors his 10 consecutive Gold Glove awards. Graded mint copies of this parallel card have sold for upwards of $150.

Speaking of parallels, the 1999 Pacific set included several parallel designs that are more scarce than the base cards. The Gold Medal parallels recognize single season leaders or award winners, while Silver & Diamond parallels were randomly inserted. The Silver parallel cards are relatively common but high grade Diamond parallels of star players can be quite valuable. For example, a PSA 10 graded Mike Piazza Diamond parallel recently sold for over $400. The Gold Medal parallels tend to have the best resale value overall though, as they immortalize specific statistical achievements.

In addition to Griffey, other star players whose base cards hold significant value include Alex Rodriguez, Pedro Martinez, Greg Maddux, and Chipper Jones. All were franchise cornerstones of their respective teams during the late 90s. Mint condition ARod and Pedro rookies can sell for $50-75 each, while a PSA 10 Chipper Jones reaches upwards of $150-200 given his Hall of Fame career and strong fan following. Meanwhile, near perfect Greg Maddux cards seem to hold steady around the $100 mark or more depending on parallel design. Condition is extremely important when evaluating the worth of these star player cards.

The chase for rookie cards is always strong among collectors and the 1999 Pacific set features several noteworthy rookie debuts. Perhaps the biggest story is that of Derek Jeter, who exploded onto the scene in 1996 and proceeded to become one of the greatest Yankees of all time. A pristine Jeter rookie still encapsulated in its original grading holder will fetch $400-500 minimum, with PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10s often selling in the $800-1000 range or higher if auction competition is fierce. Other rookies to keep an eye out for include Todd Helton, Garrett Atkins, and Alfonso Soriano, whose cards can reach $50-150 in top condition as well.

Beyond the individual star cards, complete sets are highly sought after by collectors looking to obtain every card from a given year. With nearly 300 total cards, the 1999 Pacific set is quite large and tracking them all down takes dedication. Complete near mint or better condition sets have sold recently in the $800-1200 range depending on centering, corners and edges across all cards. Higher grades bump the value up significantly, with PSA/BGS 9+ complete sets reaching $1500-2000. For collectors it’s a goal to assemble the full vintage set in pristine condition.

The memorabilia cards inserted randomly provide a fun bonus for collectors. The 1999 Pacific set featured a Barry Bonds game-used bat card that is quite scarce. Seeing as Bonds broke the all-time home run record in 2001 and is considered one of the greatest sluggers ever, his relic cards carry considerable weight. Recently a PSA 10 Bonds bat card sold for a stunning $850. Other players featured across various sets in this era included Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, and Cal Ripken Jr. High graded versions of their memorabilia cards can reach $150-400 based on the player and specific piece of equipment or jersey swatch used.

The 1999 Pacific baseball card set remains a engaging collection for players of the late 90s era. With iconic talents like Jeter, Griffey, Bonds, and Martinez highlighted among the 264 total cards, interest level stays high many years after initial release. Condition is extremely important, as pristine Mint or Gem Mint examples fetch the strongest returns for dedicated collectors. While the average base cards hold modest value, the inserts, parallels, autographs and memorabilia provide avenues to significantly greater profit potential. Overall it’s an enjoyable set to build or invest in given the star power and visual style from during one of the most popular eras in baseball history.

EBAY BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Determining the value of baseball cards can be tricky, as there are many factors that influence a card’s worth. While some cards are clearly very common and not worth much, other cards could be quite valuable depending on their condition, the player featured, and other attributes. eBay has become a popular marketplace for buying and selling sports cards of all kinds, allowing collectors to get a sense of what certain cards are going for. There are some important things to understand about eBay prices and baseball card values in general.

One of the most important things to consider with baseball cards on eBay is the condition of the card. The condition will have a huge impact on the value. There are several grading scales used, but the most common is the 10-point scale used by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading services. On this scale, a card in pristine Mint condition would grade as a PSA 10 or Beckett Gem Mint 10. As the card shows more wear, the grade would decrease down to perhaps a PSA 5 or Beckett Good 6. Obviously, a Mint 10 card will demand much higher prices than one graded a 5 or 6 due to wear and imperfections. Condition is absolutely critical to value.

Another major factor is the player featured on the card. Superstar Hall of Famers will have much more valuable cards than role players. For example, a Mint condition card from the 1952 Topps set featuring Mickey Mantle would be worth far more than a card showing the same condition but featuring a career minor leaguer instead. Understandably, cards showing legendary players that had incredible careers tend to attract higher prices from serious collectors. The level of stardom and career achievements will dramatically influence baseball card values.

The card’s year, set, and production numbers matter quite a bit as well. Generally speaking, the older the card the more valuable it tends to be, assuming good condition. This is due to rarity—the fewer cards that were printed decades ago the harder they are to find in top condition today. Certain modern sets that had very short print runs can also be quite valuable. When it comes to set and year, collectors are typically willing to pay premiums for “key” or landmark seasons in a player’s career. For example, a rookie card or a card from a 50 home run or World Series season may fetch a higher price than other years.

On top of all this, certain parallels, variations, autographs, and memorabilia cards can send values much higher. “Short print” parallels that were harder to pull from packs, 1/1 serial numbered refractors, autograph cards, and cards that contain game-used memorabilia patches are usually in higher demand than basic base cards. These specialty items are considered “hits” and will often be priced much higher on the secondary market if in good condition. It’s not uncommon for rare autograph or memorabilia cards to sell for thousands of dollars or more on auction sites like eBay.

When looking at recent sales of similar cards on eBay, there are some additional factors to consider beyond just the sale price. First, the number of bids is meaningful. A card that sold for $100 after 20 bids indicates stronger demand than one that sold for the same price with only 5 bids. Take note of whether cards are selling at the “Buy It Now” price or going to auction. Buy It Now sales typically won’t represent the true market value as well as cards that were bid on in an open auction format. Don’t just look at raw sales prices without considering grades—make sure comparable cards have similar conditions when comparing prices.

The baseball card market remains quite strong on eBay and other online marketplaces. Vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s as well as rookie cards of current superstars consistently sell for thousands. There are also plenty of affordable cards to be found—often common issues from the junk wax era or cards of role players can be had for under $10. With some research on player, set/year, condition, and sales data, collectors can gain valuable insights for determining fair guideline prices when buying and selling their collections. Just keep in mind that especially rare and desirable cards may exceed even recent sales prices due to increasing demand. Condition, more than anything, is what separates a $5 card from a $500 one.

While it may seem daunting, doing some homework on eBay recently sold listings is one of the best ways for collectors to estimate baseball card values across a wide range of prices. Consider all the key factors, compare details on similar past sales, and understand the differences between raw prices, auction versus Buy It Now conclusions, and always account for grade when matching up comparable cards. With a bit of research experience, discerning collectors can feel confident in their ability to properly value their collections and find great deals in the thriving online sports card market on eBay and elsewhere.

1989 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1989 season was a monumental year for baseball rookie cards as it introduced baseball fans to future hall of famers and all-time great players. While decades have passed, several young stars from the ’89 set have stood the test of time and their rookie cards remain highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1989 baseball rookie cards worth pursuing for any collection.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Arguably the most iconic and valuable card from the 1989 set is the Griffey Jr. rookie. Widely considered one of the greatest players of all-time, expectations were high for Junior coming into the league after being the No. 1 pick in the 1987 draft. He didn’t disappoint either in his rookie year with Oakland, slashing .264/.324/.443 with 16 home runs in just 109 games. Griffey would go on to have a legendary 22-year career mostly with the Mariners and Reds. The low serial number and near-perfect condition examples of his rookie card now routinely sell for over $10,000. PSA 10 versions have even cracked $100K.

Greg Maddux – While he didn’t debut until September of 1988, Maddux’ more prominent role in 1989 makes it his true rookie season. The future355 career wins and 4 Cy Young award winner announced his arrival by going 18-8 for the Cubs with a 2.95 ERA. As one of the greatest pitchers ever, his ’89 Fleer card remains highly collectible. High grade PSA 9s sell for $500-800 while a PSA 10 recently went for $2,600. Condition is key as lower grades can be found for under $100.

Tom Glavine – Like Maddux, Glavine appeared briefly in ’88 but ’89 marked his true rookie campaign. The crafty lefty went 5-1 with a sparkling 2.77 ERA for the Braves in his first extended look. Glavine would become a 300-game winner and 2-time Cy Young award winner as the ace of those great Atlanta staffs. Despite strong demand, his rookie card has lagged Griffey and Maddux in value – PSA 10s trade in the $300-600 range currently. Still, a true jewel for any collection.

Roberto Alomar – While he spent most of 1988 in the minors, Alomar made his mark on the big league scene in ’89 by batting .277 with 11 homers and 54 RBI for the Padres. He was just getting started on what became a likely Hall of Fame career mostly with the Blue Jays and Orioles. The smooth second baseman’s ‘89 Fleer Update issue rookie has gained traction in recent years, with PSA 9s reaching $150-250 and a PSA 10 looking for $500-700.

Dennis Eckersley – “Eck” transitioned from starter to dominating closer later in his career, but his rookie card honored him in the rotation. The future AL Cy Young and MVP got his career rolling in 1989 by going 12-9 with a 3.95 ERA for the A’s. As a key piece of Oakland’s dynasty, his rookie card is a sought-after piece for teams sets. Higher graded versions PSA 8-9 can be found in the $60-150 range.

Barry Larkin – One of the all-time great Reds shortstops, Larkin took the National League by storm in his rookie campaign of ’89 with a .273 average, 33 stolen bases and Gold Glove defense. He was just the beginning of a Hall of Fame career in Cincinnati. Larkin’s ‘89 Score rookie remains surprisingly inexpensive considering his elite status, with PSA 8s going for $40-60. PSA 10s have seen recent prices up to $300 but demand could surge higher.

Andres Galarraga – Big Cat arrived on the scene with 20 home runs and 105 RBI in 1989 as the rookie anchor of the Montreal Expos lineup. Galarraga also led the league with 199 hits that season. While injuries slowed him down later, his impressive rookie campaign made him a fan favorite. His ’89 Donruss issue can be easily obtained graded or ungraded under $20 still.

Sandy Alomar Jr. – The slick-fielding catcher contributed heavily to the Indians’ playoff runs later in the 90s. But in 1989, he showcased his talents by batting .303 in his first season. Alomar’s rookie card isn’t a high dollar prize at this point, with PSA 8s trading around $30-50 currently. But it remains an affordable piece from the star’s early years behind the dish.

There were some other noteworthy rookies like Juan Gonzalez, Randy Myers, and Scott Cooper who debuted as well in 1989. But the combination of stars, HoFers, and critical rookie season performances of Griffey, Maddux, Glavine, and others have cemented the 1989 baseball card set as a must-have for collectors both young and old. While the ultra-premium Griffey and Maddux cards may be out of reach except for the most dedicated, there are still affordable options to be had that could rise in value down the road as well. The ‘89s remain a powerful reminder of one of the golden eras in baseball card history.

ELLY DE LA CRUZ BASEBALL CARDS

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Elly de la Cruz is considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball and his rookie cards have become highly sought after by collectors in recent years. De la Cruz, who just turned 21 years old in January, was signed by the Boston Red Sox out of the Dominican Republic in 2018 and has risen through their farm system at an incredible rate. Now playing for the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox, de la Cruz is poised for a debut in Boston’s lineup in 2023 and could become a franchise cornerstone for years to come.

Due to his rising star status in the game, de la Cruz’s rookie cards have gained significant value since he first appeared in sets in 2020. Perhaps the most iconic and valuable de la Cruz card is his 2020 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autograph Refractor card. These ultra-rare refractors featuring de la Cruz’s autograph were inserted at an incredibly low rate in Bowman Chrome jumbo boxes that year. With his prospect hype beginning to build, savvy collectors snatched up these cards knowing they held a potential superstar. Now, PSA 10 gem mint versions of this iconic rookie card routinely sell for $3,000 or more, with some bringing in upwards of $5,000. For a player who had yet to play above A-ball at that point, those prices show just how much belief there was in de la Cruz’s future.

Another hugely valuable de la Cruz card is his 2021 Bowman Chrome Prospect Autograph card. Like the 2020 version, these autographed prospect cards came at an extremely low print run. But by 2021, de la Cruz was tearing the cover off the ball in High-A and building significant prospect buzz. As a result, PSA 10 examples of this rookie autograph card now sell for $1,500-2,000, showing strong sustained demand. Perhaps the card’s rarity combined with de la Cruz’s rising star power made it an almost perfect storm on the secondary market. For collectors who got in early, these cards have proven to be an incredibly profitable long-term investment.

While the autographed rookie cards understandably get much of the attention due to their scarcity, de la Cruz’s base rookie cards have also held strong value. His 2020 Topps Chrome Prospects card, which features a photo from de la Cruz’s 2019 Dominican Summer League campaign, has remained quite popular. Higher graded PSA/BGS 9 or 10 versions can be found in the $100-200 range. Even raw copies in excellent condition still pull in $30-50. For a prospect who had yet to play above rookie ball when the card was issued, those numbers are impressive. It’s a testament to how much hype was surrounding de la Cruz so early in his career.

De la Cruz’s 2021 Topps Chrome Prospects card has followed a similar trajectory. As he broke out with a monster 2021 season split between Low-A and High-A ball, demand for this shiny prospect card grew. In PSA 10 condition, examples now sell in the $75-125 range. Even raw near-mint copies can be had for $20-30. The affordability of these shiny base cards has made them accessible for fans and collectors looking to get in early on one of the game’s brightest young stars. For a player who may soon achieve superstardom, holding any of his early flagship rookie issues could prove very prescient in the long run.

While the flagship Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome cards understandably get much attention, de la Cruz has also appeared in numerous international sets over the past few years that collectors are starting to appreciate. His 2019 Leaf Metal Draft Jumbos card shows a handsome photo of the smooth-swinging prospect in his first official issue after signing. PSA 10 examples of this short printed parallel have reached $150 due to strong foreign market demand. Even raw copies in great condition can be acquired for $30-50 by patient collectors. De la Cruz’s 2019 Topps International card also has its adherents. Higher graded versions regularly sell for $75-125 depending on the market.

Perhaps most intriguing are some of de la Cruz’s earliest Dominican issue cards. His 2018 Top Prospects Dominican Summer League card was one of the first widely distributed issues featuring the budding star. In PSA 10 condition, mint copies have reached $250 due to their scarcity and status as one of the first cards showing the toolsy teenager. Even worn raw copies can be found for $50-75. Some collectors also love de la Cruz’s 2018 Dominican Prospects League All-Star card, which honors his status as a top prospect after just a summer in the DSL. PSA 10 examples have reached $200 due to the set’s ultra-limited print run.

As de la Cruz’s prospect status has grown, so too has demand for all of his early issue cards. Savvy collectors who recognized his talent early and purchased affordable copies now have the chance to realize significant gains. With de la Cruz poised for a 2023 debut and superstardom potentially on the horizon, it’s hard to envision his rookie cards losing value anytime soon. For fans and investors alike, hunting down pristine early issues of this budding phenom is a quest sure to pay long-term dividends. Where de la Cruz’s career may lead to is anyone’s guess, but one thing is for certain – his vibrant rookie card market is here to stay.

1989 BASEBALL SCORE CARDS

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Baseball score cards have been used by fans attending games for over a century to keep track of the action on the field. The 1989 MLB season produced some memorable individual and team performances that fans who kept score that year would remember recording on their cards. That season saw key developments and changes that are reflected in the design of score cards from that year.

Baseball was still enjoying high popularity in the late 80s, though the steroid era was just around the corner. World Series winners in the late 80s included the Detroit Tigers in 1984, Kansas City Royals in 1985, New York Mets in 1986, and Minnesota Twins in 1987 and 1991. The 1989 season saw the Oakland Athletics win the World Series, defeating the San Francisco Giants.

Score card designs in 1989 generally included space to track outcomes of each at-bat through the traditional tallies of hits, runs, errors, and putouts. With 24 players on a team’s active roster plus reserve players and starting pitchers, accommodating all possible players on a card required multiple lines. Most mainstream cards from companies like Scoremaster, E-Z Score, and Topps featured grids with 3-4 rows and 9-10 columns tailored for tracking 9 innings of play.

Some key player and team performances to look for on 1989 baseball score cards include Nolan Ryan of the Texas Rangers recording his 5,000th career strikeout. At age 42, Ryan remained one of the most dominating pitchers in the game. Another notable pitching performance was Montreal Expo Mark Langston throwing a 1-0 no-hitter against the San Diego Padres on September 11th. The Oakland A’s roster that would go on to win the World Series starting to come together, with key additions like Rickey Henderson and Dave Stewart solidifying the lineup.

The dominance of the New York Mets and teams in the National League East also stood out. The Mets went 100-60 behind pitchers Dwight Gooden and David Cone to win the division by 21.5 games over the St. Louis Cardinals. The Pittsburgh Pirates won the NL East the previous three seasons but fell to third place behind the Mets and Cardinals in 1989. In the American League, the AL East was highly competitive with only 4 games separating first place Baltimore and fourth place Boston. The Toronto Blue Jays finally won their first division title.

Card designs in 1989 also began incorporating space dedicated specifically to tracking pitching statistics beyond just outcomes of at-bats. Additional rows were added below the grid for tallying numbers of innings pitched, hits allowed, runs allowed, walks issued, strikeouts recorded and earned run averages. This recognition of the importance of pitching stats reflected their growing prominence in baseball analysis. Color schemes on cards remained mostly basic – blue or black grids printed on tan or white stock paper.

Prominent players whose performances statistically stood out in 1989 and would be evident when tallying hits, runs and RBI on a score card include Rickey Henderson of the A’s smashing a single-season record of 119 runs scored and 42 stolen bases. Cincinnati’s Nick Esasky led the NL with 40 home runs and 114 RBI while Toronto’s George Bell had a league-high 134 RBI. Nolan Ryan’s record-breaking 5,000th strikeout came in Texas’s 1-0 victory over Toronto on May 1st. His season tally of 223 strikeouts in just 170.1 innings was also impressive.

Attendance records from the 1989 season also speak to baseball’s popularity, showing why fans still diligently kept score. The Baltimore Orioles set an all-time single season MLB attendance record of 4,030,770 that still stands today. Four other teams (Toronto, San Francisco, Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee) exceeded 3 million fans. College and high school baseball also remained hugely popular as evidenced by Louisville Slugger continuing to be a dominant manufacturer of bats, batting gloves and other gear prominently marketed to younger players.

Through the 80s, baseball cards also evolved in their incorporation of more color photos and statistics on the back. These developments allowed stats from the 1989 season recorded on score cards to be cross-referenced with specific baseball cards to jog memories of key performances. Venezuelan pitcher Liván Hernández debuted with the Marlins as an 18-year-old and though he only pitched 12.2 innings in 1989, baseball card collectors could look to his rookie card for details on his early career.

Into the late 80s and early 90s, intangible elements like increased corporate money, national television contracts, expansion franchises, player strikes and steroids would continue altering the business of baseball. But for fans keeping score at games in 1989, the cards were a connection to enjoying the simplicity of just tracking the on-field action of America’s pastime during one of its peak eras. Even today, combing through a well-kept 1989 score card could spark fond memories for fans of all the timeless aspects of baseball that united generations.

HOT BASEBALL CARDS TODAY

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The baseball card market is always changing with certain cards and players becoming increasingly desirable. While legends from the past like Mickey Mantle and Babe Ruth will always hold value, today’s hottest cards feature current stars, rookies, and players experiencing breakout seasons.

Perhaps the most sought-after baseball cards right now feature Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani. The two-way Japanese phenom is garnering widespread attention for his unprecedented ability to both pitch and hit at an elite level. His rookie cards from 2017 Topps series 1 and 2 have skyrocketed in value, routinely selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Card collectors and investors are willing to pay a premium for an early Ohtani card believing he has the potential to become one of the game’s all-time greats.

Another Angels player with major card appeal today is outfielder Mike Trout. Already considered one of the greatest to ever play, Trout’s career continues to reach new heights with every season. His 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft rookie card in pristine mint condition can demand over $10,000. Even Trout’s more common early rookie cards from Topps and Bowman series sell in the hundreds. With Trout still in his prime at age 29, collectors are speculating his career achievements may someday rival legends like Mantle and Willie Mays.

Rookie cards are always a major focus of collectors looking to discover the next big star early. 2021 saw one of the most hyped rookie classes in baseball history including Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Franco came with huge expectations as the top-ranked international prospect and has lived up to the billing. His Topps Chrome purple refractor from 2021 is already listed for over $2,000 and prices are sure to rise if Franco establishes himself as the elite player he’s projected to become.

Two other rookies generating major buzz are Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez and Detroit Tigers infielder Spencer Torkelson. Rodriguez was considered a potential top pick before slipping to the M’s and quickly established himself with impressive power and dazzling defense. His 2021 Topps Chrome autos fetch $500-1000 already. Torkelson was the number 1 overall pick in 2020’s draft as a slugging first baseman. His 2021 Topps Chrome Update auto reached $800 within months of release. Both J-Rod and Tork have all-star upside and their rookie cards could potentially multiply in value with sustained success.

Pitching prospects are also great targets for collectors looking early. Reds starter Hunter Greene is already touching triple digits with his fastball in his first MLB action in 2022. His 2021 Bowman Chrome auto sold for around $300 at release but is up to $800-1000 now. Cubs lefty Brailyn Marquez was a top international signee in 2015 and has battled injuries, but has electric stuff when on the mound. His 2016 Bowman Chrome auto resold recently at auction for $2200. If Marquez can stay healthy and fulfill his potential, that card may prove to be a bargain.

Veteran superstars changing teams can also create early card opportunities. When Freddie Freeman left the Braves for the Dodgers last offseason, the baseball world took notice. His Dodgers debut cards exploded onto the market with his 2022 Topps Series 1 auto reaching $800 shortly after release. Two-time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom departed the Mets for Texas this winter, causing a similar frenzy around his Rangers issue cards. This offseason star movement underscores how new team affiliations can spike collector demand.

An unexpected breakout campaign can also catapult old player cards back into the spotlight. Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt is having a career year at age 34, batting over .330 through mid-July. New interest has pushed up the prices on his early Topps parallels from 2011-2013 when he was with the Diamondbacks. Similarly, Cardinals rookie Brendan Donovan has gained national attention for his versatility and clutch hitting. His 2021 Bowman Chrome auto, which sold under $100 last fall, is now listed above $500 on the secondary market.

While superstar talent will always remain blue chip baseball card investments, part of the collecting hobby’s excitement comes from predicting future All-Stars before the rest of the world recognizes their potential. Savvy collectors are constantly scouring recent releases and minor league stats for the next Shohei Ohtanis waiting to emerge. With baseball’s never-ending talent pool of young prospects rising through the ranks every year, there will always be new hot cards on the horizon for investors to consider adding to their portfolios. The buzz of the current market underscores collecting as both an enjoyable hobby and smart way to build long-term value.

SELL BASEBALL CARDS SYRACUSE NY

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Selling Baseball Cards in Syracuse, NY

Syracuse, New York has a rich sports history as the home of professional baseball, football, and lacrosse teams throughout the years. Not surprisingly, collecting and buying/selling baseball cards has long been a popular hobby among Central New York residents. Whether you have a collection you are looking to sell or are interested in purchasing cards from others locally, Syracuse offers several good options.

One of the top places to buy and sell baseball cards in Syracuse is Baseball Card Emporium, located at 407 South Salina Street in downtown Syracuse. As the name implies, Baseball Card Emporium specializes solely in baseball cards and related memorabilia. Owned by Derek Gendron, who has collected cards for over 30 years, the shop stocks everything from common cards to rare, valuable vintage issues. They buy individual cards or entire collections from customers, paying in cash. Derek and his staff are experts who can give you an accurate appraisal of what your cards are worth. They also regularly post photos of new items purchased on their social media pages so customers know what is currently available for sale. Baseball Card Emporium hosts monthly card shows on Sundays from 10am to 3pm, drawing collectors from all over Central New York. This is a great opportunity to sell cards directly to other buyers and browse thousands of cards from dozens of vendors all under one roof.

Another excellent local resource for buying and selling baseball cards is Fifth Section Sports, located at 412 South Crouse Avenue in Syracuse. Fifth Section Sports is primarily a used sporting goods store but also has a large selection of collectible cards in all major sports. Owner Jim Jones and his staff have evaluated and purchase entire personal collections before and can give you a fair cash offer. They especially seek high-end, valuable vintage cards to resell in their store and at card shows. Fifth Section Sports also has case upon case of cards already sorted and priced that customers can browse through. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your hobby, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for among the massive inventory.

Online options also exist for Central New York residents wanting to buy and sell locally without visiting a physical shop. The Facebook group “Syracuse NY Area Sports Card Buy/Sell/Trade” has over 800 members actively posting cards for sale or trade. This is a excellent local marketplace to potentially find that one card you’ve been searching for and sell duplicate cards from your collection. You can also utilize popular sites like eBay and promote your listings as local pickup only in the Syracuse area to reach collectors in your community. Be sure to clearly list all relevant details like player, year, condition and include photos for transparency. Meeting online buyers in a public, central location provides safety for all parties involved.

Another good resource for researching recent baseball card sales prices locally is watching the weekly sports card auctions held by Grothusen Auctions of Central New York. They auction hundreds of individual cards and lots every Thursday evening live online and accept phone bids. Later, a detailed sales results report is posted detailing every lot sold, the final selling price and buyer’s premium. This allows collectors to gauge the current market value of specific players, years and conditions when looking to set your own asking prices. While you can’t directly sell to Grothusen, seeing their auction trends is a helpful tool.

For those ready to liquidate larger baseball card collections, You can potentially reach more serious, paying collectors through larger auctions houses within driving distance of Syracuse as well. Both Lelands.com and Heritage Auctions host major card auctions throughout the year with worldwide online bidding that could maximize the dollars returned from your collection sale. Both companies will arrange free at-home consultations to evaluate your collection and provide recommendations on reserve pricing if you choose to directly consign cards to one of their future auctions. Just be aware they’ll charge seller’s commissions/buyer’s premiums on the final sale price.

Whether you have a few duplicate cards or an extensive collection to sell, the Syracuse area offers local options through dedicated hobby shops, collector groups, auctions and online marketplaces. Doing your research on current market trends and pricing will help achieve the best possible return. With a bit of effort, the baseball cards collecting your basement can be transformed into cash to fund your next collecting pursuits.

LOT OF BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Finding and selling large baseball card collections, also known as “lots”, has become a popular way for enthusiasts to buy and sell cards in bulk. Whether you are looking to grow your collection or downsize and make some money, buying and selling baseball card lots offers many benefits over individual cards. In this article, we will explore some of the key aspects of baseball card lots for sale, including common lot sizes, determining value, researching condition and rarity, negotiating prices, and tips for buying and selling successful lots.

One of the first decisions to make when buying or selling a lot is deciding on the size of the collection. Common baseball card lot sizes range from beginner lots of a few hundred cards up to enormous multi-box collections containing thousands or even tens of thousands of cards. Smaller lots of a few hundred cards are ideal for newcomers looking to add to their collection without too large of an investment. Mid-sized lots from 500-2,000 cards offer good value and variety without being overwhelming. Very large “mega lots” containing thousands or more cards are suitable for experienced collectors or dealers seeking inventory for resale. Bigger isn’t always better – large unsorted lots require significant time and effort to properly organize and assess.

When viewing baseball card lots for sale, carefully consider the stated condition and potential value of the cards. Condition is key, as worn or damaged cards may have little or no monetary value despite historical significance. Examine representative sample cards closely under good light for bending, staining or creasing that isn’t apparent in photographs. Also check dates and player names for clarity. While a lot with star players from the 1950s or 1960s may seem valuable, poorly preserved cards will sell for less. Researching recent eBay sold listings of similar graded stars can help determine realistic estimated values if resold individually. Most lot buyers acquire for personal collection rather than profit.

In addition to condition, assessing rarity is important for determining potential value within a lot. Look for any unique rookie cards, serially numbered parallel inserts, refractors, autos or relic cards that could potentially hold significant value. Even commons from the early 20th century may have value simply due to their age. Carefully sift through boxes or stacks to check for overlooked rare and valuable cards that could make an otherwise average lot a true treasure trove. Bring checklists, guides, your phone or laptop to quickly verify players, team sets, and key cards during inspection before making an offer. Thorough research is essential to fully understand what you’re buying.

Negotiating an appropriate price for large baseball card collections requires factoring in not just estimated raw resale value, but also the effort required to organize, catalog and potentially resell individually. A classic set of 1970s rookie cards in pristine condition is worth more purchased already graded and sorted compared to mixed in with thousands of commons and duplicates. Consider offering 10-30% less than the asking price, especially for larger unsorted lots, as consolidating and preparing for resale is a time-consuming process. Be reasonable but firm, as motivated sellers are often willing to negotiate, especially if avoiding fees on an auction site. Agree on reasonable payment and shipping terms before finalizing any private deal.

Buying and selling successful baseball card lots also requires careful planning. When listing lots for sale online, provide clear, high-quality photos showing sample cards and organization. An organized catalog or inventory spreadsheet including notable items is ideal. Clearly state conditions including any flaws. Consider offering bundles or partial lot sales to reach multiple buyer markets. When shipping cards, use rigid card savers, toploaders or penny sleeves inside sturdy boxes with ample packing materials and insurance for large valuable lots. Carefully pack for the specific shipping method. Thoroughly documenting condition upon receipt protects both buyers and sellers. With patience and diligence, buying and selling large baseball card collections can be an enjoyable and potentially profitable hobby.

Whether you are a casual collector, seasoned enthusiast or dealer, buying and selling large baseball card lots is a time-tested way to efficiently grow your holdings or downsize collections. Carefully inspecting lots for condition, organization, key cards, rarities and realistic values takes time but ensures a mutually beneficial transaction. With comprehensive research, reasonable price negotiations and careful handling, you can find or create the perfect lot to build your collection or source inventory for resale. Just be sure your expectations match the effort involved. With the right approach, trading in baseball card lots can offer ample reward for both buyers and sellers alike for years to come.

1991 STUDIO BASEBALL TOP CARDS

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The 1991 baseball card season marked a transition period for the hobby. For the first time since the late 1970s, Topps lost its monopoly on baseball cards in North America as rival Studio emerged with its own high-quality set. Both companies released flagship sets featuring current major league players along with rookie cards that would become very valuable in the ensuing decades. Let’s take a deeper look at the 1991 offerings from Topps and Studio and analyze how they shaped the baseball card market going forward.

Topps had been the dominant baseball card manufacturer since the late 1940s, enjoying decades without any serious competition for license rights from MLB or the players association. The sports memorabilia industry was growing exponentially in the late 1980s and other companies saw an opportunity to break into the baseball card sector. In 1990, studio returned to the baseball card market for the first time since the 1970s by signing licensing deals directly with MLB and the MLBPA.

This presented a major threat to Topps’ longtime monopoly. In response, Topps released its 1991 set with 514 total cards and featured many exciting rookie cards such as Larry Walker, Derek Jeter, Jim Abbott, and Billy Ripken’s famous “F*ck Face” error card. The design featured mostly action shots in team colors with white borders. Gum was still included although the quality and size of the pieces left much to be desired compared to earlier decades. The set had widespread distribution through traditional retail outlets.

Meanwhile, Studio debuted with a 512-card basic set plus 88 additional cards in three series called Studio Premier, Total, and Best stacks. The overall design aesthetic was drastically different – bright colors, embossed foil lettering, and photo borders in the team’s main color. Player photos were largely posed headshots in uniform which gave the set a very polished and premium look. Distribution was originally planned through comic book shops and hobby stores only, a radical departure from Topps’ family-oriented approach.

Both companies also had minor league/prospect sets – Topps Player of the Month and Studio Prospect Premier. These offered rookie cards for future stars prior to their MLB debuts. Some especially coveted prospect cards included Derek Jeter, Roy Halladay, and Alfonso Soriano from the Studio set.

The quality of both flagship products was excellent for the time. Topps continued shoring up its distribution network and brand awareness with customers. But Studio succeeded in seriously cracking the sports card market with its innovative design, high production values, and exclusive limited release model through specialty shops. Both companies prospered financially despite their new direct competition.

The value of select rookie cards from the 1991 Topps and Studio sets skyrocketed in the ensuing bull market years of the 1990s as players like Jeter, Piazza, and Smoltz emerged as stars. Other notable rookies like Chipper Jones and Cliff Floyd appreciated steadily as well. Modern fans also prize error cards like the Billy Ripken “F*ck Face” which captured mainstream attention. Key prospect cards hold value due to their players pre- MLB debut status.

The competitive marketplace created by Studio’s entrance endured as both companies jockeyed for sports card licenses and market share throughout the 1990s. Topps maintained its family brand identity while Studio pushed a more mature niche approach. Over time, distribution of both products expanded beyond stores into mass-market retail as the cards found new audiences. By 1991, the sports card boom was in full swing. The introduction of Studio as a legitimate challenger to Topps’ long-running monopoly marked a watershed moment that shaped baseball cards nationally going forward.

While competition bred further innovation, some negatives emerged as well. Production quality slipped at times as companies raced to get new seasons to market. Speculation ran rampant, driving up prices of raw cardboard far beyond any rational collector value. The boom went bust in the mid-1990s before largely stabilizing. Still, the rich 1991 release year left an indelible mark. Today it represents the true ascendance of sports cards as big business, offering valuable rookie gems amid the transition from a single-firm industry into the multi-company market still operating today. Both Topps and Studio helped propel baseball cards to new heights three decades ago.

The 1991 baseball season was monumental for the trading card industry as Studio emerged as a serious competitor to Topps’ decades-long monopoly. Both companies delivered high-quality flagship sets showcasing the season’s players and rookie stars like Jeter, Piazza and Walker whose cards have matured tremendously in value. Studio brought an innovative premium design approach while Topps kept its trusted brand identity. The new competitive landscape driven by Studio’s market entry endured and reshaped the entire baseball card sector for the modern era.

LARGE VINTAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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Vintage baseball cards from the early 20th century stand out from modern cards due to their unique large size format. Between the 1900s to the 1920s, baseball cards were typically printed in sizes significantly larger than today’s standard cards which measure approximately 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches. Some of the earliest and most notable large size vintage baseball cards included those found in tobacco products like cigars, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco from manufacturers such as American Caramel, Turkey Red, Strip Tobacco, and Excello.

The earliest documented large size baseball card series was produced between 1887-1890 by a company called American Tobacco Company and inserted in packages of cigarettes and pipe tobacco under the brand name of Old Judge. These cards measured approximately 5 inches by 7 inches and featured individual player portraits on the front with baseball statistics or a narrative biography on the back. Considered one of the rarest and most valuable sets in the hobby, very few of the estimated 528 total Old Judge cards are known to exist today in collectible grade. Prices can range well over $100,000 for a PSA graded gem mint example.

In the early 1900s, tobacco giants like Allen & Ginter and Pinkerton produced some of the hobby’s most iconic large size baseball card series between 1886-1889 and 2009-1911, respectively. Allen & Ginter cards were trimmed slightly smaller than Old Judge cards but still averaged about 4 inches by 6 inches. They broke new ground by being the first to use color lithography to feature individual photographs on the fronts with box scores or team rosters on the backs. Pinkerton introduced even larger size cards of approximately 4.25 inches by 7 inches and featured landmark innovations like the first cards to bear the names and positions of players on the fronts beneath their portrait photos.

Two of the most widely produced and historic large size baseball card sets were issued between 1909-1911 by American Caramel and 1914-1915 by Ecko Unlimted/Imperial Tobacco of Montreal. American Caramel’s cards reached the largest dimensions of any, averaging 5.5 inches tall by 8.5 inches wide, yet retained a relatively thin paper stock. Issued primarily in caramels and candy, over 534 total cards were printed featuring individual photographs on the fronts of over 400 players with statistics and quotes on the backs. Their distinctive pink color and cartoon mascots like “Sweet Caporal” made these among the most decorative of early cards.

Ecko cards shared similar dimensions of 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches on thick cardstock and were designed like magazine pages. Players were depicted in full body action shots on the fronts with printed features and career highlights on the backs. Over 700 total Ecko cards were produced including many rare variation proofs and errors featuring Canadian baseball players, managers, and officials. Both American Caramel and Ecko cards are considered some of the most highly collectible but also challenging to preserve intact due to their large dimensions and thin paper construction. Gem mint specimens in high grades can bring auction prices in excess of six figures.

The last great baseball card releases produced primarily in the large size format were the iconic 1915 Cracker Jack set followed by the 1916 and 1917 series issued by the American Caramel company. Cracker Jack cards maintained dimensions their predecessors at American Caramel of roughly 5.5 by 8.5 inches. However, Cracker Jack cut costs by using a thinner card stock. As a result, high grade specimens are exceptionally rare today. The 1916 and 1917 sets reduced the American Caramel size slightly from 5.5 to 5 inches tall by 8 to 7.5 inches wide. But they retained outstanding color lithography and featured the first cards to include player signatures. Together, the latter American Caramel issues and 1915 Cracker Jack represented both the pinnacle and conclusion of the large vintage baseball card era that defined the first two decades of the 20th century.

While small pocket-sized cards gained popularity in the 1920s, the mystique and collecting mania around the earliest large format tobacco era baseball cards of the late 19th and very early 20th century still holds strong appeal and mystique among vintage sportscard aficionados today. The sheer size, historic printed innovations, fragility of surviving specimens, and statistical rarity elevates a high grade example of an Old Judge, Allen & Ginter, or American Tobacco Company card to a premier prize for many collectors. Their increasingly scarce market supplies and demanding auction hammer prices ensure these pioneering pieces of baseball memorabilia will likely always remain out of reach except for the deepest pocketed custodians of the cardboard treasures that started it all.