BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 190

Leave a reply

Baseball cards were first introduced in the late 1880s as promotional inserts included with cigarette packs and other tobacco products. While the earliest baseball cards from the 1880s are extremely rare, cards produced in the 1890s provide a fascinating look at the early years of professional baseball and the stars of that era. With the growing popularity of the relatively new professional baseball leagues, companies saw baseball cards as a way to promote their brands while capitalizing on America’s national pastime.

Understanding the value and demand for 1890s baseball cards requires examining the state of the sport during that decade. The National League was established in 1876 and emerged as the premier professional baseball league by the 1890s. Meanwhile, the upstart Players’ League operated for only the 1890 season in an attempt to compete with the NL before folding. The American Association, a rival major league to the NL in the 1880s, also ceased operations after the 1891 season. This left the NL as essentially the only major show in town heading into the mid-1890s.

Some of the most iconic and valuable 1890s baseball cards depict stars from this era when the NL was solidifying its dominance, including future Hall of Famers like Cy Young, Roger Connor, Kid Nichols, and Billy Hamilton. Young, in particular, is one of the most sought-after players from this decade. As one of the first true “aces” in baseball history who enjoyed a career spanning from 1890 to 1911, his cards are highly coveted by collectors.

When examining pricing and demand for 1890s baseball cards, a few key factors must be considered:

Age and condition of the card: Like with any collectible, the older and more worn a card is, the less valuable it tends to be. Near mint or better condition cards from the 1890s can be extremely rare and valuable.

Prominence of the player depicted: Cards showing star players of the 1890s like Young, Connor, Nichols, and Hamilton will understandably be worth more than lesser known players. Superstar cards in top condition can sell for tens of thousands of dollars or more.

Brand and manufacturer of the original product: Certain tobacco brands like Allen & Ginter, Old Judge, and Goodwin are more widely collected than others. Their baseball cards tend to have stronger demand in the marketplace.

Completeness: Singles or isolated cards are more common than fully intact sets. Finding a complete set in top condition from the 1890s would be an incredible find worth six figures or more.

With those factors in mind, here is a general price guide for some of the most sought-after 1890s baseball cards in various conditions:

Cy Young, 1891 N172 Old Judge – Near Mint/Mint condition: $15,000-$25,000

Roger Connor, 1891 Allen & Ginter – Very Good/Fine condition: $3,000-$5,000

Kid Nichols, 1894 N171 Old Judge – Fine/Very Good condition: $2,000-$4,000

Billy Hamilton, 1894 Goodwin Champions – Fine condition: $1,500-3,000

Ed Delahanty, 1889 Allen & Ginter – Very Good condition: $1,000-$2,000

Buck Ewing, 1891 Mayo’s Cut Plug – Good condition: $500-$1,000

Amos Rusie, 1894 Mayo’s Cut Plug – Poor condition: $200-500

Lesser known player, c. 1890s – Any condition: $100-$300

As you can see, condition is absolutely critical when determining value for these early cardboard pieces of history. Even relatively common players can still command four-figure prices depending on the card and its condition. The rarest stars like Young in top shape break the five-figure barrier easily. For the savvy collector, 1890s baseball cards can provide a tangible link to the earliest days of professional baseball in America. Their prices reflect both baseball’s history and the ever-growing community of collectors who celebrate the game’s past.

1989 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST EXPENSIVE

Leave a reply

The 1989 Topps baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors as it features some of the biggest stars and rookie cards from that era. The entire set has become highly desirable in recent years with skyrocketing prices for the top cards. While unopened packs still circulate at affordable prices given the large print run, pristine single cards from ’89 Topps in gem mint condition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.

Leading the way as the most valuable and sought after 1989 Topps card is none other than Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the best baseball cards of all time, Griffey’s stellar 22-year career and iconic swing made him a fan favorite. His rookie campaign was incredible as well, batting .294 with 16 home runs and 61 RBI in just 89 games in 1989 to finish second in Rookie of the Year voting. Given his star power and dominance for over a decade with the Seattle Mariners, demand for his rookie has never slowed.

In pristine mint condition, Griffey Jr’s 1989 Topps rookie card routinely breaks records, consistently selling for well over $100,000 and occasionally reaching into the $200,000 range. What makes it so highly valuable is the rarity of finding the card in absolutely flawless condition after over 30 years in circulation. The combination of his legendary career, one of the cleanest swings in baseball history that was a joy to watch, and scarcity of true gem mint 10 rookies propels it above all others from the set.

While no other single ’89 Topps card approaches Griffey’s value, there are a handful that can still fetch impressive five-figure sums and above in top grades. Another enormously popular rookie that year was Gregg Jefferies of the New York Mets. As an 18-year old sensation, Jefferies batted .321 in 53 games and showed off impressive power potential. His card still garners excitement among collectors today, selling for $3,000 – $6,000 in pristine condition. Fellow rookie sensation Sandy Alomar Jr’s Cleveland Indians card also commands $2,000 – $4,000 in top shape.

Two of the biggest stars of the 1989 season and era, Kirby Puckett and Barry Bonds, also have cards that still break out four-figure sums. Puckett was winning batting titles and helping the Twins to titles, while Bonds was beginning his ascent up the all-time home run list. A PSA 10 mint Puckett or Bonds 1989 Topps card would cost a collector $5,000+. Puckett’s memorable rooftop catch from Game 6 of the 1991 World Series only adds to the lore and value of his ‘89 cardboard.

A dark horse contender that sneaks into five-figure territory on occasion is none other than skateboarding and BMX legend Tony Hawk’s lone baseball card appearance. While not a major leaguer, Hawk signed a contract in 1989 with the minor league Phoenix Giants and was subsequently featured in Topps. His card is a true oddity collectible these days that has seen its value soar into the $8,000-$10,000 range in pristine shape.

Last but not least, no discussion of expensive 1989 Topps cards would be complete without mentioning the legendary Bo Jackson. As a two-sport star of football and baseball, Bo’s hoops card is iconic. Add in the rarity of finding it sharp after three decades and you have a card that now brings $8,000-$12,000 in gem mint condition. Some consider it one of, if not the most aesthetically pleasing designs from the entire ’89 set.

While Griffey Jr’s rookie sits comfortably above the rest, there are still a handful of cards left from the ’89 Topps checklist that can earn collectors five or even low six-figure returns if they hit the daily double of pristine preserved condition paired with the right buyer. The entire set endures as a snapshot of the game at a pivotal moment, when stars like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, and Cal Ripken Jr were just entering their primes. And thanks to its massive original print run, the set remains inexpensive to collect overall, making big hits all the more exciting when they emerge.

TOP BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS 2022

Leave a reply

The 2022 MLB season saw the emergence of several highly-touted rookie players who made immediate impacts on their respective clubs. Not surprisingly, the rookie cards of these young stars have gained significant attention from collectors in the months since their MLB debuts. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top rookie cards from the 2022 rookie class that collectors should be watching.

Bobby Witt Jr. – Kansas City Royals – 2021 Topps Chrome Black Refractor RC /99: The number one overall pick from the 2019 MLB Draft, Bobby Witt Jr. lived up to the hype in his first season with the Kansas City Royals. Witt immediately anchored the Royals lineup while playing stellar defense at third base. He hit 20 home runs and stole 30 bases while posting a respectable .800 OPS for the rebuilding Royals. Witt’s explosive play and five-tool potential has collectors excited about his long-term outlook. His prized rookie cards, like the rare black refractor parallel from Topps Chrome, have skyrocketed in value and are considered blue-chip holdings going forward. Graded PSA 10 copies of Witt’s black refractor have already crossed the $1000 price point, a true testament to his emerging star power.

Spencer Torkelson – Detroit Tigers – 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor RC /399: The number one overall pick from the 2020 MLB Draft, Spencer Torkelson struggled during his first taste of MLB action in 2022. Collectors remain confident in his long-term potential as one of the game’s premier power hitters. Standing nearly 6’1 and over 200 pounds, Torkelson has a pure stroke to all fields and impressive batting practice displays of raw power. His prospect pedigree and track record of success in the minors have maintained strong interest in his 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie, which is serial numbered to just 399 copies. While Torkelson works to adjust to major league pitching, this prized refractor looks to be a solid long-term investment piece for believers in his abilities.

Julio Rodríguez – Seattle Mariners – 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire /150 RC: Without question one of the true rookie breakouts of 2022 was Mariners center fielder Julio Rodríguez. Rodriguez had a tremendous season for Seattle, making the All-Star team and contending for the AL Rookie of the Year award with a .284 batting average, 28 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and elite defense. His “J-Rod” nickname and dynamic play translated to a huge boost in the hobby. Rodríguez’s coveted sapphire parallel from 2021 Topps Chrome, which is limited to just 150 copies, have become one of the most expensive modern rookie cards on the market today. Graded PSA 10 copies are routinely bringing five-figure prices or more online due to his blossoming superstar status.

Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles – 2022 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Blue Refractor /99 RC: After years of anticipation, top Orioles prospect Adley Rutschman made his MLB debut for Baltimore in 2022. While he missed time with injuries, when healthy Rutschman showed why he is considered a future franchise cornerstone with his mature approach and rare defensive skills behind the plate. The number one overall pick from the 2019 draft, Rutschman’s rainbow foil blue refractor from 2022 Topps Chrome is an exceptional rookie card parallel that is serial numbered to just 99 copies. Despite playing in just over 50 games in 2022, strong demand remains for this rare short-print refractor as collectors stash it away as an early Rutschman flagship card. Grading it and securing a PSA 10 could yield tremendous ROI down the road.

Riley Greene – Detroit Tigers – 2022 Topps Chrome Gold Refractor Auto /50 RC: Slick fielding outfielder Riley Greene had a solid debut campaign for Detroit after battling injuries in the minors. The fifth overall pick in the 2019 draft, Greene showed off an advanced hitting approach and bat speed that could make him a core piece for the Tigers moving forward. His gold refractor autograph parallel from 2022 Topps Chrome is a huge short-print pull numbered to only 50 copies worldwide. Securing an autograph from Greene while he was still a highly-touted Tigers prospect is a coup, and this scarce parallel stands out as his premier on-card rookie auto. Its shimmering gold refractor design and serial numbered scarcity have vaulted PSA 10 graded copies over $2000 already on the modern market.

Michael Harris II – Atlanta Braves – 2022 Topps Paper Base RC: One of the true surprises of 2022 was Braves outfielder Michael Harris II. Though relatively unknown entering the season, Harris seized an everyday role and emerged as an All-Star caliber player in the Atlanta outfield. A first-round pick in 2019, Harris combined Gold Glove defense with game-changing speed and surprising power. His MLB success has thrilled Atlanta fans and collectors alike. Perhaps the most obtainable and affordable modern Harris rookie on the market is his standard 2022 Topps base card. This highly accessible rookie maintains keen collector interest as Harris remains poised to anchor the Braves outfield for years to come. PSA 10 graded versions still come in under $100, making it the epitome of a low-risk, high-reward modern investment piece.

Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates – 2022 Topps Chrome 1st /99 RC: At 6 feet 7 inches tall and with incredible raw power potential, Pirates infielder Oneil Cruz made waves in his debut campaign. While still very raw, Cruz tantalized with prodigious home runs and an electric arm. His blend of size, strength, speed and upside have comparisons drawn to some of the all-time great athletes. Among modern parallels, the striking blue refractor parallel of Cruz’s 2021 Topps Chrome RC numbered to /99 stands out. With Pittsburgh likely to be patient in Cruz’s development, this premier parallel holds appeal as an early flagship card for the talent that could emerge. Graded PSA 10 versions are still very attainable in the $200-300 range, representing a strong risk-reward proposition.

Seiya Suzuki – Chicago Cubs – 2022 Topps Finest Sapphire Wave /99 RC: The 27-year old Japanese outfielder arrived in Chicago with immense expectations, having been one of Nippon Professional Baseball’s most decorated hitters. Suzuki had an impressive rookie debut by slashing .262/.344/.436 with 14 home runs in just 115 games. His consistent skill set and established track record offshore make him one of the more “sure things” in the 2022 class. Suzuki’s sapphire wave refractor parallel from 2022 Topps Finest, numbered to /99 copies, showcases his skills on one of the set’s most visually striking cards. Finding a PSA 10 graded example of this sharp-looking Suzuki refracto

BASEBALL CARDS VALUE VINTAGE

Leave a reply

Vintage baseball cards have been highly collectible for decades due to their historical significance and value that can appreciate substantially over time. Cards from the early 20th century are especially prized by collectors and have proven to increase tremendously in worth. Let’s take a closer look at what makes old-school baseball cards valuable and how their monetary worth has evolved over the years.

The earliest baseball cards date back to the late 1800s but it was in the early 1900s when production and collecting really took off. In 1909, the American Tobacco Company began mass producing baseball cards as inserts in cigarette packs, starting the modern baseball card era. These T206 cards featured iconic players like Honus Wagner and are among the most valuable vintage cards today. In the 1910s-1930s, many companies inserted baseball cards in gum, candy, and other products. Sets from this period like the 1914 Cracker Jack and 1933 Goudey cards are highly sought after by collectors.

Condition is extremely important when determining the value of vintage baseball cards. Like with coins and paper money, even minor flaws can significantly decrease a card’s worth. For early 20th century cards to be considered in top-notch condition, they need to be well-centered with sharp, vivid color and no creases, folds, or edge wear whatsoever. Getting a professional grading and authentication from companies like PSA or BGS adds certainty to a card’s condition and history. The top grade of PSA 10 or BGS Gem Mint 10 can make a common card exponentially more valuable.

Some key factors that influence the value of old-time baseball cards include the scarcity of the set or player, the visual appeal and design elements, and of course the fame and accomplishments of the depicted athlete. Iconic stars from baseball’s early eras like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Honus Wagner have consistently fetched the highest prices due to their legendary careers and infrequent appearances in vintage sets. Rookie cards, which feature a player from their first year in the majors, also hold special significance. The 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner is considered the crown jewel of collectibles and has sold for over $3 million.

When it comes to rarity, some of the most valuable vintage baseball cards are ones with the lowest surviving populations. The 1914 Cracker Jack Lefty Grove card is estimated to have fewer than 10 copies still in existence. High-grade examples have sold at auction for over $100,000. Other scarce cards include the 1933 Goudey Jimmie Foxx and the 1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank, each with under 20 known survivors. As supplies continue to dwindle due to lost or damaged cards over the past century, the prices will likely keep increasing.

The monetary worth of vintage baseball cards has skyrocketed over the past few decades. In the 1970s-80s, complete sets from the 1930s could be purchased for just a few hundred dollars. By the late 80s, as the collecting hobby boomed, key cards were starting to sell for over $10,000. The 1990s saw unprecedented gains, with rare T206 cards breaking records and topping $100,000. Since the turn of the 21st century, auction prices have exploded further. In 2007, a PSA 8 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner sold for $2.8 million, setting a new high water mark. Other milestone sales include a 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth that fetched $5.2 million in 2016.

With each passing year, as more of these century-old cards disintegrate or remain in private collections not available to the marketplace, the pool of high-quality vintage specimens gets smaller. At the same time, there are more wealthy collectors with significant budgets competing to acquire these seminal pieces of sports history. As a result, the value trend for prized early 20th century baseball cards will likely continue its steep upward trajectory for the foreseeable future. For patient investors, holding onto a pristine example for decades could result in an enormous long-term payoff. Vintage cardboard from baseball’s earliest eras remains one of the most intriguing areas for serious collectors and speculators.

ETSY BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Etsy has become a popular marketplace for unique baseball cards created by independent artists and collectors. Whether you’re looking for nostalgic recreations of your favorite players or creative custom designs, Etsy offers a wide variety of handmade and vintage baseball cards that you can’t find elsewhere.

Some key things to know about baseball cards sold on Etsy:

History of baseball cards on Etsy
Etsy launched in 2005 as a site dedicated to selling handmade and vintage goods. In the early days of Etsy, baseball cards were a small niche product. Over time, as more collectors joined the site, the baseball card market grew significantly. Today there are thousands of baseball card listings on Etsy from artists and shops around the world.

While Topps and other major companies hold the monopoly on modern mass-produced baseball cards, Etsy has become popular for finding unique one-of-a-kind baseball card designs. Artists enjoy the creative freedom to design cards celebrating obscure players, defunct teams, or conceptual themes that wouldn’t interest the mainstream card companies.

Types of baseball cards on Etsy

Vintage cards: Etsy is a great place to find vintage cardboard from the early 20th century up through the 1980s. Sellers offer everything from rare T206 Honus Wagner cards to common 1970s issues at affordable prices. Authenticity is always a concern with vintage cards, so be sure to check seller reviews.

Custom sketch cards: Many artists create beautiful original sketch card designs featuring current or retired players. These hand-drawn cards showcase the talent of sports illustrators and are truly one-of-a-kind collectibles. Popular players like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle are commonly featured.

Independent issue cards: Independent publishers release their own small print run baseball card sets on Etsy separate from the major companies. These explore niche themes like defunct teams, special annual sets, or player tributes. Quality varies but it’s a fun way to expand a collection.

Meme/joke cards: A niche but popular category is humorous baseball cards poking fun at players, using meme templates or inside jokes. These lighthearted custom designs are made for collectors with a good sense of humor.

Memorabilia cards: Sellers pair swatches of game-used jerseys, bats or other authentic memorabilia with original card fronts to create unique one-of-one commemorative cards. Quality Memorabilia Authentication (QMA) ensures legitimacy.

Custom photo cards: Upload your own photo to be inserted into a customized baseball card template available in various styles from the early 20th century to modern designs. Great for family photos turned into cards.

Unopened wax packs: Vintage unopened wax packs or factory sealed box lots from the early years of the hobby in the 1950s-1970s are highly collectible items also available on Etsy.

Tips for buying baseball cards on Etsy

When shopping for baseball cards on Etsy, it’s important to check a seller’s reviews, completion rate, and return policy before buying. Here are some additional tips:

Inspect photos closely for centering, corners and condition issues that aren’t described. Ask for additional pics if needed.

Make sure custom cards will be printed on high-quality cardstock to last, not regular paper.

Ask about authentication of any memorabilia cards containing real game-used pieces.

Check shipping costs and timelines, as international orders may take longer.

Use the message function to ask any questions before ordering to avoid surprises.

Pay with PayPal for buyer protection on your purchase.

Consider sorting Etsy search results by “Most Relevant” to find top rated sellers first.

Whether you’re a serious collector or casual fan, Etsy is a fun place to find unique one-of-a-kind baseball cards not available anywhere else. With so many talented artists and so much baseball history represented, you’re sure to discover something special to cherish in your collection. Just be sure to do your homework on sellers to avoid any issues down the road.

BEST 1992 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1992 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and collectible issues from the early 1990s. While not as valuable as some other vintage sets from the era, it featured many star players and rookie cards that are still highly sought after by collectors today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the best 1992 Fleer cards to find in a pack or collection.

One of the most well-known rookie cards from the set is Derek Jeter’s. As one of the greatest shortstops of all time and longtime Yankees captain, there is always strong demand for Jeter’s rookie. While it’s not his true rookie card (that was in the 1991 Upper Deck set), the 1992 Fleer card was the first widely available issue featuring the young prospect. Graded mint condition Jeter rookies can fetch thousands of dollars today. Another highly valued rookie is Chipper Jones. The future Hall of Famer and longtime Braves third baseman is pictured as a member of the Double-A Greenville Braves. High-grade Chipper rookies also trade hands for significant money.

Two other rookies that hold value are Nomar Garciaparra and Jason Giambi. Garciaparra was an exciting young shortstop breaking in with the Red Sox, while Giambi was starting to make a name for himself with the Athletics. Both players went on to stellar careers and their rookie cards remain popular with collectors. For pitchers, the Pedro Martinez rookie is a great card to find in the set. Martinez was just starting what would become a dominant career mostly with the Red Sox. His rookie card captures him as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.

In terms of star players, any card featuring Ken Griffey Jr. in a Mariners uniform is highly collectible. Griffey was already one of the game’s top young talents in 1992 and his Fleer cards always attract attention. Another Seattle star, Edgar Martinez, has several nice cards in the set showing him in his prime. For the Yankees, the Don Mattingly and Wade Boggs cards are favorites. Mattingly’s career was winding down but he was still an iconic player, while Boggs had just come over from Boston in a big trade. Roberto Alomar’s card as a member of the Padres is also well-regarded.

Turning to the National League, the Barry Bonds and Larry Walker rookie cards hold value. Both were just starting their ascents to stardom with the Pirates and Expos respectively. For the Braves, the Tom Glavine and David Justice rookie cards stand out. Glavine went on to a Hall of Fame career mostly with Atlanta, while Justice was a feared slugger on those 1990s Braves’ championship teams. The Moises Alou and Lenny Dykstra rookie cards are also noteworthy finds, capturing the outfielders early in their careers with the Pirates and Phillies.

In terms of the design and photography of the 1992 Fleer set, it had a very clean and classic look. The blue and white borders were understated but gave the cards a vintage feel. Many of the photos showed players in mid-action shots, capturing their skills. The Fleer logo at the bottom left was also a nice simple touch. While not as graphically bold as some later 1990s issues, the 1992 design has held up very well. It remains a set that is both visually appealing and historically significant for the talented rookie classes and stars it featured.

When searching for the best 1992 Fleer cards to add to a collection, the rookies of future Hall of Famers like Jeter, Jones, Martinez, and Alomar are always at the top of the list. But keep an eye out also for the rookie issues of Giambi, Garciaparra, Glavine, Justice, and Alou which can still be found at affordable prices sometimes. For established stars, look for any Griffey, Bonds, Mattingly, or Boggs cards in the set. The 1992 Fleer baseball release celebrated another golden era of the game and its most valuable cards continue to be popular with vintage collectors today.

2012 TOPPS ARCHIVES BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 2012 Topps Archives baseball card release was unique in that it celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 1962 Topps card set, one of the most iconic designs in the history of the hobby. Topps pulled out all the stops to make their commemorative 2012 Archives set one of the standout releases of that year.

1962 was the height of the postwar boom in baseball card popularity. Young baby boomers routinely collected cards and swapped them with friends on playgrounds and in neighborhood sandlots across America. The design language of 1962 Topps cards instantly evokes a sense of nostalgia for many who came of age during that era. Topps wisely chose to pay tribute to that design to celebrate the 50-year milestone.

Some key aspects of the 1962 design language that Topps recreated for their 2012 Archives release include:

Vibrant primary color borders around each card, with red for the American League, blue for the National League. This helps the cards really pop visually when grouped together in a binder or box.

A classic team logo in the upper-left corner surrounded by a wide white border. This allowed plenty of room for the team name to be prominently displayed below.

A large central image of the player in action on the field, with plenty of negative space surrounding it. The photos were bright and colorful.

Minimal text kept along the bottom edge, including the player’s name, position, and batting stats from the previous season in a simple, clean font.

Topps went to great lengths to source the highest quality original source images possible from 1962 for their photographic recreation. They spent time researching team and league photo archives to get as close a match as possible to the exact poses, locations and photographic style of the originals. Even minor details like jersey scripts and logos were painstakingly recreated for maximum accuracy and nostalgia.

In addition to faithfully recreating the iconic 1962 design, Topps also packed the 2012 Archives release with additional modern extras to make it an even more enticing collector’s item:

Each card featured a full-bleed extended statistical recap on the back, highlighting career stats and awards.

Short bios were included telling the story of each player’s career and 1962 season.

Parallel “minis” variants were inserted randomly throughout packs and boxes at approximately 1:6 odds, multiplying the excitement of the chase.

Autograph and memorabilia cards of retired stars from the 1960s were mixed in at ultra-short print runs,including 1/1 printing plates.

Finest Futures parallel subsets included rising stars who were still active in 2012 such as Mike Trout and Bryce Harper.

Topps Archives sets are highly anticipated yearly releases because they tap into nostalgia while also satisfying modern collectors’ appetite for prestigious parallels, autographs and one-of-one cards. The 2013 Archives set paid similar tribute to the iconic 1968 design. But the inaugural 2012 edition holds a special place as the release that started it all – a loving ode to the golden age of baseball cards in the early 1960s.

It’s no surprise the 2012 Topps Archives set became incredibly popular upon its release. Demand far outstripped initial supply from hobby shops and vendors. Boxes that originally sold for $80-100 jumped up to over $250-300 on the secondary market within months as collectors scrambled to finish their sets. Individual star rookies like Harper and Trout climbed even higher.

A decade later, the 2012 Topps Archives set remains a highly regarded release. Its faithfulness to recreating a true piece of cardboard history while still satisfying modern collectors continues to captivate the imagination of fans young and old. For anyone with even a passing interest in vintage baseball cards, the 2012 Archives set stands out as a true seminal moment – a masterful combination of nostalgia, quality content and coveted parallels that captured lightning in a bottle. It’s sure to be remembered as one of the all-time classic modern issues.

1981 FLEER BASEBALL KEY CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1981 Fleer baseball card set was the company’s fourth attempt at making licensed Major League Baseball cards after previous sets were released in 1981, 1980, and 1979. The 1981 set is most notable for featuring rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Rickey Henderson and Eddie Murray, as well as short printed cards that have become highly valuable to collectors.

Released in April of 1981, the 1981 Fleer baseball card set contains 328 total cards plus additional short printed rookie cards. The base cards feature individual player photographs on the front with career statistics on the back. All cards are encased in a yellow and pink colored border scheme. The set marked the return of multi-colored team logo designs on the trading card fronts that had previously been seen on 1976 and 1977 Topps cards.

Some key aspects that make certain 1981 Fleer baseball cards highly sought after include:

Rickey Henderson Rookie Card (Card #329): Widely considered one of the top 10 most valuable baseball cards of all time, Henderson’s rookie is one of the stars of the 1981 Fleer set. Only 12 of the Henderson rookie were packed per case when the set was released, making it extremely rare. PSA 10 graded examples have sold for over $100,000.

Eddie Murray Rookie Card (Card #4): Like Henderson, Murray is a future Hall of Famer whose rookie card from the 1981 Fleer set is a major key. Short printed similarly to Henderson’s at around 12 cards per case, high grade Murray rookies can fetch over $10,000.

Fernando Valenzuela Rookie Card (Card #204): As one of the early stars of Fernando-Mania, the Mexican native’s rookie established him as a rising star. Still plentiful compared to others, graded examples can sell for $500+ due to his popularity.

Rollie Fingers Card (Card #179): The Hall of Fame reliever’s photo is missing from his card, replacing it with a blurb reminding collectors that not all photos could be obtained. One of the more surreal errors in the hobby.

Robin Yount Card (Card #152): The star Brewers shortstop is featured on arguably the most visually appealing card in the set due to the bright yellow and pink colors highlighting his image. Higher grades with strong eye appeal can sell for over $100.

#1 Buck O’Neil Card (#001): As the first card in the set, collectors seek out this numbered rookie card of the Negro Leagues legend for its milestone position. Higher grades with strong centering command over $500.

Short Print Variations: Like other early Fleer releases, unannounced short print rookie cards exist of players like Joe Charboneau (#274, 12-15 per case), Cal Ripken Jr. (#278, 15-18 per case), and Jerry Augustine (#286, 12-15 per case).

Missing Logos: A small subset of roughly 10 cards feature players photographed without team logos appearing behind them in the image area. Collectors enjoy pursuing these anomalous designs.

Embossed Design: The front of each card uses a raised, embossed design to give them thick, three-dimensional edges instead of the typical flat surfaces seen previously. This adds a premium to higher grade examples.

While not quite as iconic as some other releases like 1952 Topps, the 1981 Fleer design features a simple yet engaging classic ballcard look. Combined with the star power and rarity factors of the Henderson, Murray, Fingers, and short printed rookies, it has become a set that well-funded collectors are eager to pursue and complete in pristine condition. Example high-ends that have sold include a PSA 9 Rickey Henderson rookie for over $20,000 and a PSA 10 Robin Yount for $675. For famous athletes, eye-catching variations, and cardboard cornerstones of the era, 1981 Fleer baseball cards remain an engaging odyssey for vintage collectors.

BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY 1989

Leave a reply

1989 was a monumental year in baseball card history as it was the final year of production for Fleer and Topps’ iconic designs that had been mainstays in the hobby for decades. With new companies entering the market in the early 90s, collectors knew 1989 would likely be the last year of the classic Fleer and Topps sets they had grown up with. As a result, 1989 cards are highly sought after by collectors today and command solid values. Let’s take a look at some of the top baseball cards from 1989 that are worth money for collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Topps) – Widely considered one of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards ever printed, Griffey’s rookie card from the 1989 Topps set is highly sought after by collectors. In near-mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $300-500. Pristine mint copies in a PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ grade have sold for over $10,000, with one even achieving $22,000 at auction. Griffey was already showing signs of greatness as a rookie and would go on to have a Hall of Fame career, making his rookie one of the most desirable in the hobby.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (Topps) – While not as valuable as Griffey’s, Barry Bonds’ rookie card from the same 1989 Topps set still holds great value given his all-time great career and status as one of the home run kings. Near-mint to mint copies typically sell in the $50-150 range. High-grade PSA 10 examples have sold for over $1,000, showing Bonds’ card retains popularity despite his controversial legacy in the steroid era.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (Topps) – Maddux is considered one of the best pitchers of all-time and his rookie card reflects his Hall of Fame caliber career. His 1989 Topps rookie in near-mint to mint condition sells for $30-75. Copies that grade PSA 10 can reach over $500 due to his dominant career and status as a fan favorite.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card (Topps) – Alomar enjoyed a long, successful career that landed him in Cooperstown and his rookie card is a desirable piece for collectors as a result. Near-mint to mint copies sell in the $15-50 range. Higher grades like PSA 10 can reach $200+ given Alomar’s popularity and place among the game’s all-time great second basemen.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (Topps) – “The Big Hurt” had a monster career that saw him win two MVP awards. His rookie card from the flagship 1989 Topps set sells for $10-30 in near-mint to mint condition. Pristine PSA 10 examples have reached over $200 due to Thomas’ dominance at the plate throughout the 1990s.

Dennis Martinez Perfect Game Card (Fleer) – On July 28, 1991, Dennis Martinez threw the first ever perfect game in Expos/Nationals franchise history. Fleer captured the historic moment with a special card in their 1989 set just two years prior. In high grade, these cards sell for $75-150 due to their rarity and significance in baseball history.

Ken Griffey Jr. Traded Issue Card (Topps) – After a midseason trade in 1989, Griffey’s rookie card was re-issued by Topps with his new Seattle Mariners photo and uniform. High grade copies in PSA 10 sell for $75-150 due to their scarcity and status as an early Griffey collectible outside his true rookie issue.

Nolan Ryan Express Poster Card (Fleer) – Fleer paid tribute to Nolan Ryan’s express train-like fastball with this fun oversized poster card in their 1989 set. In high grades, it sells for $50-100 due its unique design and subject matter focusing on the legendary flamethrower Ryan.

Rickey Henderson Milestones Cards (Topps/Fleer) – Both Topps and Fleer issued special “milestone” cards in 1989 to commemorate Rickey breaking Lou Brock’s stolen base record. High grade examples sell for $40-75 due to Henderson’s iconic status and the cards memorializing one of his many career achievements.

This covers some of the most valuable and desirable baseball cards collectors can find from the 1989 season. Factors like a player’s career performance, Hall of Fame induction, and the scarcity or unique design of specific cards all contribute to the values discussed here. With the 30th anniversary of 1989 fast approaching, these cards are only expected to gain more appreciation among investors and nostalgic fans of 1980s and 90s baseball card culture.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

Leave a reply

Minor League Baseball Cards For Sale: Investing in the Future of the Sport

Minor league baseball cards present a unique investment and collecting opportunity for baseball fans. While stars of tomorrow may be profiled on these cards years before reaching the major leagues, minor league cards remain very affordable compared to their MLB counterparts. With patience and a discerning eye, savvy collectors can acquire cards of future all-stars for just pennies on the dollar of what they may one day be worth.

Rather than focus exclusively on stars currently in the big leagues, minor league cards allow fans to get in early on prospects working their way up through the farm systems of their favorite MLB clubs. Top pitching and hitting prospects especially hold promise—a cheap card today of a flamethrower or slugger not yet called up could pay dividends down the road if they pan out.

Even beyond just future stars, minor league cards preserve the history of countless players who never reached MLB but still made memories at the Double- and Triple-A levels. Regional and “world’s greatest hot dog”-style minor league stadiums also live on through cards chronicling these uniquely American pastimes. Whether spending $5 on a whole box or scouring dollar bins, affordable minor league cards are a worthwhile hobby for any baseball fan.

Where to Find Minor League Baseball Cards for Sale

› Online Marketplaces: Ebay remains the top destination for finding virtually any minor league card on the secondary market. Pay close attention to recently sold listings for price guides. Other options include Amazon Marketplace, COMC, and Sportlots.

› Local Card Shops: Check nearby hobby shops, which may have boxes of unsorted minor league cards available cheap in the hopes of uncovering a gem. Some shops also sell entire team sets.

› Minor League Stadiums: Visit games involving affiliates of your favorite MLB teams. Many sell retail boxes and have dealers present with individual cards for sale on gamedays.

› Conventions: Attending regional or national sports card shows puts thousands of dealers and their entire inventories within reach in one venue. Great for hunting obscure finds.

› Group Breaks/Group Sales: Joining monthly group breaks hosted by reputable breakers is an easy, affordable way to build a minor league collection. Group sales of entire teams/sets also surface online periodically.

Top Prospects to Target

When chasing stars of tomorrow, focus on highly touted prospects near the top of organizational depth charts and prospect rankings sites. A few examples who could provide treasure down the road include Tampa Bay Rays OF Josh Lowe, Cincinnati Reds OF Taylor Trammell, Chicago White Sox INF Nick Madrigal, Milwaukee Brewers P Aaron Ashby and San Diego Padres 3B/OF Hudson Head. Find their rookie cards now for under $5 before they’re household names.

Vintage and Rare Gems to Uncover

While the vast majority of minor league cards hold little inherent long-term value, a few vintage and short print standouts have gained collector cache over decades:

› 1950s/60s tobacco and Bazooka cards: Rarities from these early minor league issues can fetch big bucks graded and well-preserved, like a Ernie Banks ’53 Bowman prospect card.

› 1970s/80s oddball issues: Obscure oddball releases from supermarket and autograph club promotions like 1976 Yankee Doodle Dandy and 1988 Panini Nostalgia hold cult followings.

› 1990s style variations: Parallel issues like 1995 Stadium Club Photo Variations and 1997 Ultra parallel short prints provide thrill of the chase for completest collectors.

›autographed/memorabilia cards: Signed rookie cards or cards containing game-used memorabilia of stars who made it big can carry significant premiums decades later.

With some due diligence, minor league card collecting offers an engaging, relatively inexpensive avenue for baseball fans to build a diverse, history-rich collection and uncover the next generation of future MLB stars long before they hit the big time. Cards costing just pennies today could become invaluable keepsakes documenting dreams that came true tomorrow.