1989 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Fleer baseball card set was one of the most iconic and valuable releases from the late 1980s. While not quite as famous as Topps or Donruss sets from that era, the 1989 Fleer cards stands out for capturing a special time in the game and featuring some of the sports’ biggest stars who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers.

Released at the tail end of the 1980s baseball card boom, the 1989 Fleer set contains 217 total cards including rookie cards of future all-stars like Barry Larkin, Gregg Jefferies, and Juan Gonzalez. The iconic design features a white border around each photo with the team name arched along the top in blue script. Set highlights include a Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card, Nolan Ryan career highlights card, Ozzie Smith “The Wizard” subject card, and a Darryl Strawberry “Hot Stuff” insert.

Ken Griffey Jr. was already one of the most exciting young prospects in baseball coming off his rookie season with the Seattle Mariners in 1989. His rookie card from Fleer is one of the most iconic and valuable from the entire baseball card boom era. Featuring Griffey in a Mariners uniform with his trademark smooth left-handed swing, the card captured ‘Junior’ at the very beginning of what would become a Hall of Fame career. High-grade Griffey rookies from 1989 Fleer now sell for thousands of dollars.

Another star on the rise was Barry Larkin, who was entering his third season with the Cincinnati Reds in 1989 but had yet to make his first All-Star team. Larkin’s rookie card stands out for being one the few from 1989 Fleer that feature a close-up head shot rather than a full body image on the field. This unique design makes Larkin rookies quite collectible and they often fetch a premium compared to others from the set.

For longtime MLB veterans, the 1989 Fleer set paid tribute to some of the game’s biggest names through special subject cards. Future Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan received one of these cards highlighting some of his most impressive career pitching stats and records up to that point. As one of baseball’s all-time strikeout kings, Ryan’s place in history was already secure by 1989. The subject cards helped collectors learn more about the sport’s living legends.

Perhaps no other player was as synonymous with flashy defense in the 1980s as St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Ozzie Smith. Appropriately, Smith received a “The Wizard” subject card from 1989 Fleer paying homage to his highlight reel plays and unprecedented skill with the glove. Featuring a head shot of Smith in the signature Cardinals birds-on-the-bat helmet along with career stats, it celebrated what was truly a one-of-a-kind talent on defense. High grade Ozzie Smith cards remain highly sought after by collectors today.

Meanwhile, slugging outfielder Darryl Strawberry was among the game’s biggest stars with the New York Mets in 1989. To highlight his prodigious power, Fleer inserted a “Hot Stuff” sticker card of Strawberry mid-swing. It captured the raw physical talents that helped Strawberry slug over 300 career home runs and cement his place in Mets lore. Darryl Strawberry cards in general increased in value after his memorable career took many twist and turns in the following decades.

In addition to stars, the 1989 Fleer set also featured solid representation of eventual Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, Ryne Sandberg, and Dave Winfield among others who were still making names for themselves in the late 1980s. Rookies like Gregg Jefferies, Juan Gonzalez, and Billy Ripken provided a glimpse of future talents as well. Overall team representation was also well-balanced with multiple cards dedicated to the league’s most popular franchises.

While not quite as iconic or valuable as rival releases from Topps or Donruss in 1989, the Fleer baseball card set from that year holds nostalgia for many collectors as a snapshot of the late 1980s MLB landscape. Featured players like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Larkin, Ozzie Smith, and Darryl Strawberry help make rookie and vintage cards from the set worthwhile investments even decades later. For fans and investors alike, 1989 Fleer endures as one of the finer and more complete snapshots of 1980s baseball released during the hobby’s commercial peak.

2002 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SET

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The 2002 Topps baseball card set was the 71st annual release from Topps, continuing their legendary run as the premier producer of baseball cards. Following a tumultuous 2001 season that was cut short due to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Topps sought to produce an uplifting set for collectors that also captured the accomplishments of the previous season. They succeeded in creating another iconic release through classic design elements, memorable rookie cards, and high-quality photography.

The 2002 set contains 700 total cards and features all players from the 2001 MLB season. Some of the biggest stars to grace the colorful cardboard included Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Cal Ripken Jr., Greg Maddux, and Alex Rodriguez. Topps incorporated many exciting photography styles that highlighted the athleticism and skills of the game’s greatest talents. They shot cards at spring training sites, during intense at-bats, and showcasing acrobatic defensive plays. This helped collectors relive the drama and excitement of the past year.

Topps also ensured rookie submissions from baseball’s rising stars stood out through distinctive designs. Of particular note were cards for Albert Pujols, Ichiro Suzuki, Jimmy Rollins, and Carlos Zambrano. Each received colorful borders and a special “Rookie” stamp to signify their debut. This treatment ensured these future Hall of Famers received proper fanfare in their initial cardboard appearance. Other noteworthy rookies included Jason Bay, Mark Prior, and Nomar Garciaparra in his lone MLB season after a decorated college career.

Beyond the on-field product, Topps’ legendary set design made the 2002 release immediately recognizable. They utilized a red color scheme with white borders around each card that provided a sharp and powerful aesthetic. Topps’ classic logo remained prominent above the player photo along with inclusion of team logos and uniform colors. Statistics from the 2001 season were highlighted on the reverse along with a classic design border. Gum was still included in Series 1 and 2 wax packs for those hoping to chew while building their collections.

Topps also included a variety of popular insert sets to add variety and chase cards for enthusiasts. “Diamond Origins” paid homage to where players began their careers through prospect photography. “Road to the Show” featured minor leaguers on the verge of the bigs. “Celebration” captured excitement from walk-off moments. And “Topps Tribute” honored iconic players and cards from decades past. Parallels and short prints providedscarcity that drives the hobby. Overall it was a very collector friendly design that appealed to both veterans and those just starting out.

In addition to the base set, Topps also produced specialized series exclusive to certain retailers. The “Walmart Green Chrome” parallels contained green refractors of stars. Meanwhile, “Target Red” included red foil borders around selected cards. These sort after variants added numerous creative collecting options beyond the standard base cards. Heritage Hobby Shop even received an exclusive 50 card Museum Collection set honoring classic Topps designs of yesteryear.

When all was said and done, the robust 2002 Topps baseball release had something for everyone. Between the impressive rookie class, powerful star subjects, and fun inserts sets, it maintained Topps’ position as the top brand in the hobby. Two decades later, it remains a highly regarded set in the eyes of collectors due to its engaging on-card content and vibrant presentation. For capturing a pivotal time in baseball’s history through classic cardboard, the 2002 Topps offering endures as one of the premier issues from the brand’s long run of excellence.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS OF VALUE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. While it does not contain rookie cards of future all-time greats like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, or Tom Glavine, there are still several key cards that can bring in big money for collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards that can really boost the value of any collection.

One of the true gems of the 1987 set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and is still regarded as one of the most talented outfielders to ever play the game. His smooth swing and effortless style in center field made him a fan favorite for many years. The Griffey rookie is widely considered the key card from the 1987 Topps set. In near-mint to mint condition, examples can sell for over $1,000. Well-centered copies in gem mint 10 grade have been known to fetch upwards of $3,000.

Another huge name and highly sought-after rookie is the 1987 Barry Larkin issue. Larkin was a terrific all-around shortstop who won an MVP award in 1995 with the Cincinnati Reds. He combined solid hitting ability with elite defense and base running skills. The Larkin rookie is very scarce in high grades due to print issues. A pristine Near Mint-Mint 8 copy in a third-party holder could sell for around $500-$600. A BGS or PSA 10 gem is truly a trophy card worth $1,000 or more for serious Larkin PC collectors.

Staying on the theme of future Hall of Famers, the Nolan Ryan card from the 1987 Topps set is also extremely valuable. Ryan was already a legend by this point in his career but hadn’t yet notched career win number 300. He would continue intimidating batters with his blazing fastball well into his 40s. High grade Ryan rookies from his early 1966 Topps days are out of reach financially for most. His 1987 issue offers collectors a very affordable alternative. Examples in NM-MT 8 condition can be found for $100-150.

One of the more interesting rookie cards to track down from 1987 Topps is that of Mark McGwire. By the late 1980s, McGwire was already showing signs of the incredible raw power that would make him a multi-time home run champion. His rookie has taken on added significance in light of the steroid era. Pristine PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 copies in modern slabs are very scarce and can demand over $1,000 given McGwire’s infamous legacy in the sport’s record books. Even lower graded examples still trade hands for a couple hundred bucks.

Switching gears to pitching staff aces, the Fernando Valenzuela card is a standout from the 1987 checklist. “Fernandomania” had taken Los Angeles by storm earlier in the decade and he was cementing his status as one of baseball’s most dominating hurlers. High grades of his 1987 issue don’t come around too often. Near-mint to mint 8s in a third-party holder have sold for $250. Anything obtaining that elusive pristine BGS/PSA 10 black label pops up even more rarely and would bring an absolute premium for serious Fernando collectors.

Last but not least, the set is also made much more collectible and valuable thanks to the inclusion of veteran superstars still producing at an all-time caliber. One such card is that of Wade Boggs with the Boston Red Sox. The “Hitting Machine” was a five-time batting champ and would go on to amass over 3,000 hits for his career. His 1987 issue doesn’t have the true “investment” potential of the rookies mentioned, but it’s still a widely popular card amongst Red Sox and Boggs PC collectors. Clean examples can still pull in $75-$100 even today.

While the 1987 Topps baseball set may lack some huge modern stars in their rookie seasons, it still holds great nostalgia and investment upside thanks to gems like the Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, Nolan Ryan and Fernando Valenzuela issues. For completionists, iconic veterans like Wade Boggs also add collecting pop. With a combination of these key cards and prudent grading, a 1987 Topps baseball collection can truly gain tremendous long-term value. It represents a classic 1980s release that any serious vintage or team set builder would welcome into their portfolios.

1992 UPPER DECK FACTORY SET BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Upper Deck factory set marked a memorable year for baseball card collectors and the hobby in general. Following their tremendous success with the 1989 debut sets, Upper Deck shook up the industry again in 1992 by introducing innovative technology and features that raised the bar for quality and collectibility.

Containing 262 cards across 15 teams, the 1992 Upper Deck set stands out for several reasons. First, it was the first factory set to feature laser-etched foil on every single card. While holograms and foil accents had been seen before, applying a nearly imperceptible shine to the entire surface of every card was groundbreaking. This gave the photographs an almost three-dimensional pop unlike anything seen to that point.

Upper Deck also utilized a special four-color lithograph printing process that yielded rich, vivid colors with remarkable detail and definition. Combined with the laser etching, this resulted in cards that looked practically identical to high-end artist proofs or limited print runs. The photography and imaging quality was a huge step forward compared to the standard three-color printing commonly used by competitors at the time.

Another notable aspect of the 1992 Upper Deck factory set was the move towards more action shots and artistic photographs compared to traditional posed player portraits. While many stars still had traditional card designs, sets in the early 90s began shifting toward dynamic game images that captured the excitement and emotion of America’s Pastime. Many 1992 Upper Deck cards still hold up today as some of the best examples of creative and compelling baseball card photography.

Along with the improved image quality, Upper Deck also incorporated several advanced security and anti-counterfeiting measures into their 1992 factory set. Each card featured an intricate laser-cut hologram in the bottom corner that changed colors and images as it was moved or tilted. There was also a mock serial number added to the front of each card. While not truly serialized, this nod to high-end trading cards established an air of quality control and attention to authenticity.

Roster-wise, the ’92 Upper Deck set contains all the biggest stars of the era such as Barry Bonds, Kirby Puckett, Cal Ripken Jr., and Roger Clemens. It’s also remembered for some notable rookie cards that are highly collectible to this day. Players like Derek Jeter, Carlos Baerga, John Burkett, and Bobby Bonilla had their first Upper Deck cards in this set, immortalizing their early careers. Jeter’s iconic 1992 Upper Deck rookie remains one of the most iconic and valuable modern cards in the hobby.

The condition of 1992 Upper Deck factory set cards is often above average due to some savvy packaging choices. Each card was individually wrapped in a cellophane envelope to prevent chipping or wear during storage and handling. The wrappers also served to authenticate cards outside their original waxy pack or wax box condition. Sets could also be found sealed in factory-wrapped wax boxes for true “straight from the pack” preservation. This care taken in production and packaging is a big reason why so many ’92 Upper Decks remain in pristine shape nearly 30 years later.

In the years since, the 1992 Upper Deck factory set has gained legendary status as arguably the high point of 1990s baseball cards and a true standard bearer of the modern collecting era. Upper Deck pushed printing and photography to new levels that still influence the hobby. Combined with rookie card gems, all-time legends, and exceptional condition potential, it’s no surprise this set continues to fascinate veterans and new collectors alike decades after its original release. The landmark ’92 Upper Deck factory set left an indelible mark and remains one of the most historically significant baseball card sets ever produced.

TOPPS MICRO BASEBALL CARDS 1992 COMPLETE SET

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The 1992 Topps Micro baseball card set was released in 1992 as part of Topps’ line of Micro-sized baseball cards. With cards measuring only 1 inch by 1 1/2 inches, the Micro sets offered fans an innovative new way to collect scaled-down versions of their favorite MLB players and moments from that season.

The 1992 Topps Micro set contains 150 total cards and featured all 26 MLB teams from that season. Some key highlights and details about the set include:

Rosters: Each team’s roster included all notable active players from that season. The set strived to have each team’s roster as complete as possible within the 150 card limit.

Design: The card design featured a color team logo at the top along with the player’s name, position, batting and other stats listed vertically to fit the tiny real estate. Photos took up most of the front with some bleed-over on the edges.

Parallels: In addition to the base cards, Topps also included limited parallel inserts like Gold Foil cards, League Leader cards highlighting statistical champions, and All-Star cards listing the AL and NL Midsummer Classic teams.

Short Prints: Some cards were printed in shorter supplies to add to the challenge of completing the set. Specified by spelling out “SHORT PRINT” under the photo, these included popular stars or rookie cards.

Bonus Cards: A few bonus non-player cards were included like umpires, stadium shots, and poses paying homage to iconic moments in baseball history.

Checklist Card: Provided collectors an easy reference to see which cards were still needed to finish their collection. Numbered #150.

While compact, Topps ensured the cards still maintained great photos along with vital stats and coherent design elements within the tight parameters. This innovation allowed baseball fans of all ages to collect a snapshot of the 1992 MLB season in the palm of their hands.

The popularity of the concept led Topps to continue producing Micro sets well into the 2000s. For collectors of ’90s cardboard and seeking an affordable way to collect MLB’s biggest stars, finding unopened 1992 Topps Micro packs remained a worthwhile pursuit well after the original release date.

While the tiny cards presented organizational challenges, their portability and novelty factor proved part of the allure. die-hard fans enjoyed showing off completed player collections from their favorite clubs. Teenage collectors also appreciated the Micros’ budget-friendliness compared to standard-sized sets.

Some key rookie cards featured in the 1992 Topps Micro issue that have grown in value over the years include Jeff Bagwell of the Houston Astros, Frank Thomas of the Chicago White Sox, and Moises Alou of the Montreal Expos. All three went on to have outstanding MLB careers and are among the most sought after rookie cards from that year in general.

Other notable stars well represented included Chicago Cubs first baseman Mark Grace, Atlanta Braves right fielder David Justice, Cincinnati Reds first baseman Hal Morris, and Detroit Tigers designated hitter Cecil Fielder. Fielder enjoyed one of his finest career seasons in 1992 by leading the American League in home runs and RBIs.

Like any collectible released in the early ’90s before the internet and sports memorabilia boom, finding intact boxes of 1992 Topps Micro are exceptionally rare today. Many of the original packs have long been broken open in pursuit of completing individual team and player collections. On the secondary market, individual commons may go for under $1 while stars can reach $5-10 each. Complete sets in factory-sealed wax boxes now command prices well over $100.

For a brief period in the early 1990s, Topps Micros gave baseball card fans a fun new twist on collecting with their Lilliputian-sized cards. Even three decades later, collectors still appreciate the charming novelty and affordable Steinbrenner-era content captured in the 150-card 1992 Topps Micro set. Its enduring appeal and short print chase continue fueling today’s retro hobbyists.

BASEBALL CARDS EXPERT COST

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When collectors are looking to sell or value their baseball card collections, hiring an expert to appraise and assist with the process is often a wise decision. Experts charge varying rates for their services depending on experience, reputation, and other factors. Let’s take a deeper look at what baseball cards collectors can expect to pay for expert assistance.

To start, it’s important to understand the different types of experts that are available. The most prestigious experts specialize solely in vintage baseball cards from the 1800s and early 1900s, when the hobby first began. Given the rarity and value of cards from this era, these experts can command some of the highest rates. For the average collector simply looking to sell a box of cards accumulated over the years, a general sports memorabilia expert may be a better fit.

In terms of general pricing, most experts will charge either an hourly rate or a flat rate depending on the scope of work. Hourly rates for a reputable expert can range from $100-300 per hour depending on experience level. Flat rates are more common for appraisals and consignment work, where an expert may charge a flat percentage of the estimated/sale value. Typical flat rates are 10-20% for consignment sales and $100-500 for basic appraisals depending on collection size.

It’s also important to factor in any additional fees on top of hourly or flat rates. Many experts charge additional fees for travel outside a certain radius, large collection sorting/organization, advanced authentication services like encapsulation verification, and other specialized services. Common additional fees include $0.50-$2 per card for bulk appraisals, $50-150 travel fees, and 10-20% of sale price for consignment-based sales.

When selecting an expert, credentials and experience are extremely important. Look for experts who are certified appraisers with professional organizations like PSA/DNA or have decades of relevant experience in the hobby. An expert’s past transaction history, client reviews/references, and specialization are also good indicators of their qualifications and ability to maximize value. General sports memorabilia dealers may be better for common modern cards, while vintage experts have experience valuing rare older issues.

The rarest and most valuable vintage cards that can sell for tens of thousands to millions also require the top experts. For truly high-end collections with pre-war T206s, vintage Mickey Mantles, or rare rookie cards, expect to pay premium expert rates well above the typical ranges. Top experts may charge 5-10% of estimated value just for an appraisal on a single rare card worth $100,000+, in addition to hourly rates. Consigning rare vintage cards also usually requires the top experts who have relationships with elite auction houses.

In terms of maximizing value and return on investment, using an expert for valuable collections is often well worth the cost. Experts have extensive market knowledge and industry contacts that can help a collector avoid potential pitfalls and obtain the best possible price. They also save collectors immense time and hassle in conducting their own research, authentication, consignment, and sales process.

For the average collector simply looking to sell a few boxes of modern cards, using a general memorabilia expert and targeting a flat rate appraisal may provide the best value. But for truly valuable vintage collections, only the top experts have the credentials required to accurately assess condition, prove authenticity, and market cards to serious collectors worldwide. In these cases, premium expert rates are reasonable given the potential increase in realized value.

Baseball card experts provide a valuable service, but their costs do vary significantly. Doing research into an expert’s qualifications, experience, past work, and pricing structure upfront allows collectors to find the right fit for their budget and collection’s value. For collections worth thousands or more, experts are usually worth the investment to maximize returns. But for casual collections, a generalist may suffice. With diligence, collectors can tap expert knowledge without overpaying.

1980 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 1980 Topps baseball card set is iconic of the late 1970s/early 1980s era of major league baseball. Following a season of upheaval that saw the Pittsburgh Pirates win the World Series, break up their dynasty team, and signal a changing of the guard in the National League, the 1980 card set reflected both continuity and change in America’s Pastime.

The set features 660 total cards including regular and rookie/traded issue cards of players, managers, umpires and checklists. The design retains the classic look that Topps had used since the late 1960s with team logos featured prominently atop color team name banners. A thicker border surrounded individual player photos with statistics and career highlights on the back.

The checklist is a who’s who of stars still in their prime as well as young players who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Notable vets included on the roster include Reggie Jackson, Rod Carew, Mike Schmidt, Steve Carlton, Nolan Ryan, and Catfish Hunter. Rookies and early career players like Tony Gwynn, Robin Yount, Wade Boggs, Fernando Valenzuela, Ozzie Smith, and Goose Gossage posted promising stats.

The Pirates’ World Series championship roster was well-represented led by Stars Willie Stargell, Dave Parker, Bert Blyleven, and reliever Kent Tekulve. The World Champion Baltimore Orioles saw sluggers like Eddie Murray, Ken Singleton, and Rick Dempsey all included after winning 103 games in 1979. The Los Angeles Dodgers checklist featured Steve Garvey, Ron Cey, and Burt Hooton as they looked to regain dominance out West.

Rookies who made immediate impacts in 1980 and thus earned prominent placement in the set include Yankees slugger Don Mattingly, slugging Oakland A’s catcher/first baseman Keith Hernandez, Astros ace pitcher Nolan Ryan, and Red Sox hurler Oil Can Boyd. Their rookie cards hold significant collector value today. Other notable early-career inclusions were Rod Carew, Andre Dawson, Rick Sutcliffe, and Jack Morris.

The league leaders were well-highlighted including Phillies home run champ Mike Schmidt, Indians RBI champion Toby Harrah, Dodgers hit leader Bill Russell, Blue Jays steal king Lloyd Moseby, and Rangers ERA titleholder Ferguson Jenkins. Traded and manager/coach cards updated roster moves like Dick Williams moving from managing the White Sox to the Angels or Rick Burleson switching from Boston to the Angels.

Short print error cards were also part of the 1980 Topps set including those featuring Tim Foli, Denny Walling, Ken Landreaux, and Dave Rucker among others. An increase in production value from prior years also saw the inclusion of “Traded” cards to reflect in-season swaps like Steve Kemp going from the Yankees to the Royals. Topps Gum, the parent company, also provided Bazooka brand bubble gum packets with each pack of cards purchased.

The 1980 set marked an inflection point as stars of the 1970s started transitioning to new eras. While some vets still headlined such as Jackson, Schmidt, Ryan, and Carlton, 1980 also signified early successes by Bobby Grich, Ron Guidry, Tony Perez, Dusty Baker, and Eddie Murray. Rookies like Gwynn, Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Mattingly foreshadowed coming decades of excellence. The design quality remained fresh while commemorating the recent past.

The 1980 Topps baseball card set captured many Hall of Famers early and late in their careers. It also highlighted stars of pennant winning teams like the Pirates and Orioles freshly off World Series wins. Rookies in the set who would achieve baseball immortality included Tony Gwynn, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and more. For collectors, it carries both nostalgia for the late 1970s/early 80s while offering historically significant cardboard of future legends. The 1980 Topps checklist exemplifies both a transitioning of eras and rich tradition in America’s Favorite Pastime.

2020 BOWMAN PLATINUM BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2020 Bowman Platinum baseball card release offered collectors some of the most visually appealing designs in recent memory along with premium rookie cards of the game’s top prospects. With its stunning chrome refractor parallels and prospects on the cusp of MLB success, the 2020 Bowman Platinum set captured the attention of the hobby.

Bowman Platinum has become one of the most anticipated releases each year for its prospect autos and parallels printed on chromium. The 2020 version was no exception, hitting card stores in April shortly after the MLB season was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With baseball on hold, collectors turned their focus to the exciting young talent featured in Platinum.

Headlining the prospect class were names like Bobby Witt Jr., Jarred Kelenic, Spencer Torkelson, Emerson Hancock, and Nick Gonzales. All 5 were drafted within the first 20 picks of the 2020 MLB Draft and each received serial numbered autograph cards in Platinum. This elite grouping, considered one of the strongest prospect crops in recent memory, made 2020 Bowman Platinum a highly sought-after product.

Parallels have always been a major draw of Bowman Platinum, and the 2020 edition upped the ante with several scarce parallel variations. The base Platinum refractor parallel /250 was joined by Gold /50, Rainbow Foil /10, and 1-of-1 Black refractor autos. These hyper-rare parallels take the refractors to new levels of visual splendor. Collectors loved hunting for the precious parallels in hopes of landing a major star prospect.

Several parallels attracted massive interest, such as the Gold parallels of Witt Jr. (#/50), Kelenic (#/50) and Hancock (#/50). These parallels carried estimated values over $1,000 each upon release. The Torkelson Rainbow Foil auto (#/10) and Gonzales Gold auto (#/50) also received notable valuation. With demand high for the top prospects, their low-print parallels were white whales for collectors.

The prospect talent showcased went beyond the headliners as well. Names like JJ Bleday, C.J. Abrams, Austin Martin, Patrick Bailey and more received serial numbered or autographed cards that added to the excitement. From the first pick to the later selections, Bowman Platinum highlighted players that would define the early 2020s in MLB. Prospect enthusiasts loved having these future stars all in one affordable release.

The 2020 release continued Bowman’s long tradition of including retired stars on vintage cards as inserts. Legends like Bob Gibson, Don Drysdale and Nolan Ryan received retro designs that paid homage to their earlier playing days. For history buffs, these classic throwback cards added valuable context within the otherwise prospect-heavy product.

The design aesthetics of 2020 Bowman Platinum were also a smash hit. Featuring close-up headshots on a colorful chrome background, the base cards carried premium flair befitting the high-end parallels within. Even the common parallel designs popped with their iridescent effect. Collectors praised how Bowman’s artists brought each prospect’s likeness to new heights visually.

When the MLB season shut down in March, the anticipation for 2020 Bowman Platinum grew massively online. With so many coveted young stars and parallels inside, breaks of the boxes and jumbo packs became must-watch experiences. YouTube breakers posted hauls of the product for weeks after release. Social media buzz highlighted big spectacles like serial #1 parallels emerging. All the while, trade/sell prices steadily rose for the hottest 2020 rookie cards in the set.

In the midst of a difficult year, 2020 Bowman Platinum offered a bright light for collectors with its star power, rare parallels, and gorgeous design execution. It proved an ideal distraction and investment during an unusual period without live baseball. While the prospects’ careers are just beginning, the release already stands out as one of the premier issues in recent hobby memory. For both its on-field talent and collector appeal, 2020 Bowman Platinum was a defining baseball card release.

BASEBALL CARDS CONCORD NH

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Baseball Cards in Concord, New Hampshire: A Rich History of the Hobby

Concord, the capital city of New Hampshire, has a long history with the hobby and business of baseball cards dating back to the early 20th century. While the popularity of collecting cards has waxed and waned over the decades, Concord remains a hub for enthusiasts in the region to this day. From the earliest tobacco cards to modern inserts and parallels, the story of baseball cards intertwines deeply with the story of Concord.

Some of the earliest baseball card collectors and traders called Concord home in the 1900s and 1910s. During this time, tobacco companies like American Tobacco, Goodwin & Company, and American Caramel started including baseball cards in their cigarette and candy products. Young boys eagerly awaited the arrival of the newest series to add to their collections. In Concord, informal trading sessions would be held on street corners and in neighborhoods where kids could swap duplicates. This helped foster local communities of collectors even before organized hobby shops and conventions existed.

As the decades progressed, Concord developed its first dedicated baseball card shops. In the late 1950s, Concord Sport Cards was opened downtown by lifelong resident and former minor league player Bill Henderson. It became a popular hangout for both children and adults to buy, sell, and trade cards. In the 1960s, another iconic shop called Topps Cards & Comics opened its doors under owner Harvey Goldberg. Both of these pioneering shops in Concord’s hobby scene would stay in business for over 30 years.

During the 1970s, interest in collecting cards boomed across the United States during what became known as the “golden age” of the hobby. In Concord, local card shows started being regularly held on weekends where hundreds of collectors from near and far could come together under one roof. Some of the earliest and largest shows were held at the former Concord Auditorium, with tables manned by independent dealers as well as the city’s shops. This helped further cement Concord’s reputation as a baseball hotbed in New England.

As the 1980s rolled around, Concord was fully immersed in the wider craze surrounding the rise of sports memorabilia and the debut of ultra-premium card products like Fleer and Donruss. New specialty card shops opened to capitalize on the boom, such as Great American Sportscards. Meanwhile, existing stores like Topps Cards expanded to larger locations. The city hosted some of the first regional sports memorabilia conventions in New England during this decade. Major shows continued to be held annually, as well as smaller weekend trading events that attracted collectors from all over the state.

In the 1990s, the sports card market experienced both huge highs and lows. While interest temporarily declined from its peak, Concord’s strong collector base helped the local hobby weather the storm. Card shops adapted by expanding inventory of other related items like autographs and equipment. Meanwhile, the city gained national recognition for hosting some of the largest and most prestigious vintage card, autograph, and memorabilia shows in the Northeast. Events like the Concord Card Show were featured in major hobby publications and drew A-list dealers.

Today in the 2020s, while online sales have impacted brick-and-mortar businesses, Concord remains a proud hotbed of baseball card collecting. Local card shops like Hall’s Cards provide everything from new wax boxes to vintage supplies. The city also continues to host memorable memorabilia shows several times a year. Meanwhile, Concord is home to private collector clubs that keep the rich history alive through events, publications, and preserving one of America’s oldest hobbies. From its earliest beginnings to modern day, the story of baseball cards has been deeply intertwined with New Hampshire’s capital city.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS SOLD ON EBAY

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Baseball cards have long been a beloved collectible for fans of America’s pastime. With cards dating back over 100 years, the hobby of collecting these small pieces of memorabilia has grown exponentially. As with any collectible market, the biggest tickets items tend to be the rarest and highest graded versions of legendary players. When it comes to baseball cards sold on the largest collectible marketplace, eBay, some truly astounding sums have been paid by enthusiasts looking to add a prized piece of history to their collection. Here are some of the most expensive baseball cards ever sold on eBay and the mind-boggling prices they fetched.

At the top of the list is undoubtedly the famous 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner card, considered the Mona Lisa of baseball cards due to its rarity and subject matter spotlighting the legendary Honus Wagner. Just about 60 of these highly coveted cards are even known to exist today in collectible condition. In 2016, one of these rare specimens received a PSA EX-MT 5 grading and ended up selling on eBay for an astounding $3.12 million, making it not only the most valuable baseball card ever sold but also one of the highest amounts paid for any trading card in history. While Wagner examples in lower grades have still earned millions, that $3.12 million price tag remains a record.

Another iconic early 20th century issue that has cracked the million-dollar threshold is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth card. Like the Wagner, fewer than 100 of these are estimated to exist in all conditions. In May 2015, one that received an SGC Authentic grade sold through an eBay auction for an incredible $1.26 million after 15 bids drove the final cost past the opening price of around $550,000. It set not only a benchmark figure for a Ruth card but any pre-WWII card. Those high 7-figure totals illustrate just how coveted birth-era examples of the game’s greatest early superstars truly are to dedicated collectors.

More recently from the post-war period, 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle cards have emerged as some of the priciest modern issues as well. As one of the most prolific set designers ever, Topps created the first modern generation of baseball cards in 1951-52 that ignited today’s multi-billion dollar collecting industry. Mantle rookie and early career cards hold legendary status as investments. In January 2016, a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT 8 sold through eBay for $575,000, marking a new standard for that particular issue at the time. Just a couple years before, another PSA NM-MT 8 example had sold for over $405,000 on the site in 2014, showing the steady rise of coveted Topps Mickey Mantles even in high grades.

While the cards above broke into the 6 and even 7-figure realm, plenty of other postwar and modern rookie cards have topped $100,000 thresholds on eBay too as interest has grown. In 2013, a rare 1909 Eastern Coal Card featuring an image of Honus Wagner and inscribed on the reverse “The King of Baseball” managed to sell through the online marketplace for $196,000. June 2018 saw a 1957 Topps Hank Aaron rookie PSA EX-MT 5 sell through eBay for $189,989 in one of the highest publicized sales that year for the Hammer’s debut card. Vintage rookies for legends like Sandy Koufax from the 1950s have also cleared $100,000-150,000 depending on grade acquired through eBay auction forums.

Modern star cards don’t quite reach the heights above but have still earned impressive 5 and 6-figure valuations when pristine unused copies surface. In 2007, one of the rarest collectibles in the industry, a pristine 1975 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card graded PSA GEM-MT 10, sold for $106,000 through eBay. It stood as a record price that year for the Great One’s first mass-produced hockey card issue until eventually being bested later on. More recently in 2016, a rare 2009 Bowman Draft Prospects Mike Trout rookie card considered the pinnacle Trout collectible graded BGS 9.5 brought an incredible final sale price of $117,150 after 24 bids. Trout has emerged as one of the defining superstars of the modern generation so examples like that in top condition are highly prized. Other 2010s rookies like Bryce Harper and Kris Bryant can also potentially reach 5 figures in Mint or better condition through online bidding.

Moving to autograph cards, signed pieces by the games legends unsurprisingly command high costs as well. The gold standard remains any signed Honus Wagner card, one of which an incredibly rare T205 White Border example signed in bold signed sold on eBay in 2016 for nearly $2.1 million, marking the most ever paid for a baseball card with an inscription at auction. Other signed pieces seem comparatively more reasonable, such as a rare single-signed 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth card which achieved a final sale price of $138,000 through eBay bidding in 2012. Newer generational stars can also pull in 5 figures for autographs alone, such as a 2011 Topps Update Mike Trout autograph card which raked in $39,900 back in 2014. The opportunities to acquire genuinely historical autographs are slim, so prices tend to reflect that exclusivity.

While seven-figure sums dominate the headlines, bargains can still be had on occasion if more affordable alternatives suit a collector’s interests and budget instead of the most pristine condition rarities. As an example, a vintage 1955 Topps Stan Musial that graded PSA 2.5 sold online in a January 2016 eBay auction for just under $1,000. Or in December 2014, an autographed 2001 Topps Pedro Martinez rookie card in PSA/DNA GU 8 condition went for a final cost of $3,750, an accessible price point compared to signs pieces by the legends before him. With enough digging, collectors focused more on specific players than condition alone can potentially find affordable signed or used examples to build their collections even if seven-figure premiums are out of reach.

As interest has exploded for vintage sports memorabilia of all kinds, the prices realized through marketplace giants like eBay have risen substantially along with overall increased demand. For the true diamond in the rough rarities, particularly early 20th century tobacco or pre-war baseball cards featuring superstar players, seven figures may now represent the going rate as competitive bidding wars sometimes ensue. But more accessible bargains can still on occasion be had as well for dedicated collectors prioritizing certain players over highest grades alone depending on individual taste. After over a century of collecting culture, the market now reflects just how intertwined historical sports cards have become with our memories of the game’s greatest legends from baseball’s earliest days to contemporary stars.