BEST BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1990 DONRUSS

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s and early 1990s. While not as large as some previous Donruss sets, the 1990 edition featured many of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. Let’s take a look at some of the standout cards and most desirable rookie cards from the 1990 Donruss set.

Perhaps the most coveted card from the 1990 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best rookie cards of all time, Griffey’s 1990 Donruss card showcases “The Kid” in his Seattle Mariners uniform from his rookie season in 1989. Griffey would go on to have a legendary career and is now a first-ballot Hall of Famer. In top graded gem mint condition, Griffey’s 1990 Donruss rookie can fetch well over $10,000. Even in lower grades, it remains one of the most iconic and valuable modern rookie cards on the hobby.

Another hugely valuable rookie card from 1990 Donruss is Frank Thomas’ debut issue. Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt” would have an outstanding career that landed him in Cooperstown. Thomas’ rookie card features him as a member of the Chicago White Sox. In a PSA 10 gem mint grade, it can sell for over $5,000. But even well-centered, lower graded copies still command four-figure prices due to Thomas’ legendary career and the card’s iconic design from the 1990 Donruss set.

Sandy Koufax, one of the game’s greatest pitchers, is featured on another highly sought-after card from 1990 Donruss. Koufax’s career was cut short in the 1960s due to an arthritic elbow, but his stats cemented his status as an all-time great. The 1990 Donruss card uses a photo of Koufax in his prime with the Los Angeles Dodgers. In top condition, it can sell for over $1,000. It remains one of the most visually striking vintage cards featuring one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers.

Nolan Ryan, baseball’s all-time strikeout king, also has a highly valuable card in the 1990 Donruss set. Like Koufax, Ryan’s career was well in the past by 1990, but his records and accomplishments ensured his cards would remain popular. The 1990 Donruss issue shows Ryan pitching for the Houston Astros later in his career. Even well-centered near-mint copies still trade hands for $200-300 due to Ryan’s iconic status.

Rickey Henderson, baseball’s all-time stolen base leader, has an impressive rookie card in the 1990 Donruss set as well. “Henderson’s rookie season in 1979 was well before the 1990 issue, but his speed and prolific base-stealing made him a fan favorite. The card features Henderson as a member of the Oakland A’s, where he would play several stints. High-grade PSA 10 copies can sell for over $500.

Other notable stars featured in the 1990 Donruss set include Kirby Puckett, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Cal Ripken Jr., Ozzie Smith, and Ryne Sandberg. Each of these players were established stars by 1990 with Hall of Fame careers. Their cards remain popular with collectors today, especially in high grades.

While it didn’t have quite the same star power as some previous issues, the 1990 Donruss baseball card set remains a highly collectible vintage release. Featuring rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey and Thomas, as well iconic veterans like Koufax, Ryan, and Henderson, it captures a great era in the sport. Prices have risen steadily in recent years, making ungraded common cards an affordable way to build a collection from this set without breaking the bank.

The 1990 Donruss baseball cards were headlined by star rookies like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas, as well as iconic veterans from Sandy Koufax to Nolan Ryan. Loaded with future Hall of Famers and memorable photography, it remains one of the most recognizable and collectible issues from the late 1980s/early 1990s era. Cards from this set will likely retain their value for dedicated collectors of vintage cardboard for years to come.

BUY BASEBALL CARDS IN BULK

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Buying baseball cards in bulk is a popular way for collectors and investors to acquire large numbers of cards at once. Whether you’re looking to build sets, find valuable vintage cards, or simply grow your collection in a cost-effective manner, purchasing cards in bulk can be an efficient strategy. There are some important factors to consider when buying baseball cards this way.

One of the main advantages of buying in bulk is the potential cost savings compared to purchasing cards individually. Sellers will often offer discounts when you buy cards by the box, team set, or entire collection. This allows you to acquire hundreds or even thousands of cards for a lower per-card price. Naturally, the more cards you buy at once, the bigger the potential discount. Some sellers may offer 50% or more off the estimated individual card values when you buy in bulk quantities.

Another benefit is the ability to quickly add large numbers of cards to your collection or inventory. Rather than spending hours searching through packs, boxes, and individual listings to acquire singles, you can get a big batch of cards with one purchase when buying in bulk. This is ideal if you’re looking to fill out sets, build a stock of vintage cards for resale, or simply accumulate a lot of cards very quickly without spending too much time on acquisition.

There are also some potential drawbacks to consider when buying baseball cards in bulk. Chief among these is lack of control over exactly which cards you’re getting. When purchasing by the box, team set, or entire collection, you have little say over the specific cards included. You may end up with many duplicates of common cards you already have or cards of players that don’t interest you. There’s also a chance of receiving damaged or worn cards mixed in.

Condition is another factor to watch out for when buying baseball cards in bulk. It can be difficult to thoroughly inspect each individual card in a large lot purchase. Make sure to ask detailed questions about average condition, whether cards have been professionally graded/protected, and if returns will be accepted for any cards found to be in far worse shape than described. The overall condition of a bulk purchase could be lower than buying pre-graded singles.

Valuation is another area that requires more due diligence when buying in bulk. Unless you have an in-depth understanding of every card in a large collection, it’s easy to overpay if the seller has inflated the estimated total value. Do your research on recent sales of key cards and common players to determine a fair bulk purchase price. Ask for a detailed inventory list and photos of highlights so you can properly assess the value yourself before buying in bulk.

Scams are also a risk to watch out for, especially with online bulk sales. Make sure to only purchase from well-established sellers with a strong reputation, detailed policy descriptions, and customer photo/video submission requirements. Using a secure payment method with buyer protections is recommended as well. Don’t fall for inflated condition claims, unrealistically low bulk prices, or sellers who won’t provide clear photos and details up front.

For those new to buying baseball cards in bulk, it’s best to start small at first until you gain experience evaluating large lots and collections. Consider buying team or player lots of a few hundred cards to get comfortable assessing condition, values, and deal terms before jumping into bulk purchases of thousands of cards. Practice thorough due diligence on the front end to avoid potential pitfalls down the road.

Buying baseball cards in bulk can be a cost-effective way to rapidly grow your collection if done properly. Just be sure to carefully research sellers, scrutinize lot contents and condition details, perform accurate valuations, and use secure payment methods. Starting with smaller bulk buys allows you to develop important evaluation skills before spending larger amounts. With the right approach, purchasing cards in bulk quantities can reward collectors with great deals and rapid collection growth over time. Just go in informed and prepared to thoroughly inspect potential purchases.

EBAY UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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Upper Deck baseball cards exploded onto the hobby scene in 1989 and immediately changed the collectibles landscape forever. Prior to Upper Deck, the baseball card market was dominated by Topps and Donruss. However, Upper Deck brought unprecedented quality, design, and production values that collectors had never seen before. They quickly became the most coveted and valuable modern baseball cards.

While Upper Deck produced cards through the late 90s and early 2000s, their original 1989-1991 issues are considered the true vintage releases that are highly sought after by collectors to this day. The combination of star rookies, innovative designs, and limited print runs have made many 1989-1991 Upper Deck cards appreciate greatly in value over the past 30+ years. As a result, these vintage Upper Deck cards regularly fetch high prices when they surface on the secondary market – especially on eBay where collectors can find a wide range of graded and ungraded examples.

Some of the most iconic and valuable Upper Deck rookie cards that regularly sell for big money on eBay include Ken Griffey Jr. (1989), Frank Thomas (1991), Chipper Jones (1991), and Juan Gonzalez (1989). Mint condition PSA/BGS 10 examples of these rookie cards often sell for well over $1000. But there are also plenty of opportunities to find raw, graded 9’s or 8.5’s in the $200-500 range. Collectors also pay top dollar for star rookie cards of players like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Moises Alou from the early Upper Deck years.

In addition to rookie stars, eBay is also a hot marketplace for scarce parallels, serially numbered cards, and rare insert sets from 1989-1991 Upper Deck. Examples include the ultra-rare Mike Piazza autograph parallel from 1991 (#/150), which has sold for over $10,000. High-grade versions of the 1990 Ken Griffey Jr. Superstar Special parallel (#/100) also command $1000+. Insert sets like the 1990 UD All-Star Tribute parallel set are also highly coveted, with individual cards selling in the $200-500 range depending on the player.

Graded gems of iconic Upper Deck designs like the 1989 Ken Griffey Jr. (#1 pick), 1990 Nolan Ryan (#3000 K’s), and 1990 Cal Ripken Jr. All-Star are also perennial favorites on eBay. Near-mint to gem mint PSA/BGS copies often sell for $500-1000 each. Even raw, well-centered examples still fetch $100-300 depending on condition. For collectors looking to add a true piece of baseball card history to their collections, these seminal Upper Deck designs are always in high demand.

While the biggest stars and rarest inserts garner the most attention and money on eBay, there are also plenty of opportunities to find affordable graded commons and stars from the early Upper Deck years. PSA/BGS 8 copies of stars like Barry Larkin, Roberto Alomar, Kirby Puckett and more regularly sell in the $50-150 range. Meanwhile, raw near-mint examples can often be found for under $20-50. This makes completing iconic Upper Deck sets from 1989-1991 very achievable for collectors without a massive budget.

Whether chasing rookie stars, rare parallels, or completing iconic designs – eBay is undoubtedly the top marketplace for collectors to find vintage 1989-1991 Upper Deck baseball cards. With a huge selection of graded and ungraded cards across all levels, it allows hobbyists to target specific players, designs and condition levels that fit their collections and budgets. While the true investment-grade gems fetch top dollar, savvy collectors can also uncover plenty of affordable opportunities to add classic Upper Deck pieces to their collections through eBay. Over 30 years later, the appeal and demand for these pioneering cards shows no signs of slowing down.

CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Chicago Cubs Baseball Cards that Could be Worth Money

As one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball with a rich history that dates back to 1874, the Chicago Cubs have issued countless baseball cards over the decades. While most common Cubs cards from the modern era have little monetary value, there are certain rare and vintage Cubs cards that could hold significant value for collectors. In this article, we will explore some of the most valuable and sought-after Cubs cards that you’ll want to keep an eye out for.

T206 Honus Wagner (1909) – Arguably the most famous and valuable baseball card of all time, the T206 Honus Wagner is essentially the holy grail for collectors. Even in poor condition, examples can sell for over $1 million. What makes this card so rare is that Wagner demanded his likeness be removed from the series, resulting in only 50-200 known copies. Extremely unlikely any Cubs fan has this in their collection, but it sets the bar for the most valuable baseball card.

T205 Gold Border Frank Chance (1909) – As one of the earliest Cubs stars and managers who led the team to two World Series titles, Frank Chance is a significant figure in franchise history. His rare T205 card with a distinctive gold border surrounding the image could be worth $25,000+ for a high graded example. Only around 10 are known to exist in collectors’ hands today.

1933 Goudey #53 Billy Herman – Billy Herman was a key member of the Cubs in the 1930s and made the All-Star team multiple times. His scarce 1933 Goudey card is one of the most coveted and valuable pre-war issues, with high grade copies selling for upwards of $15,000. In worn condition, it’s still a four-figure card.

1951 Bowman #359 Hank Sauer – Hank Sauer was the NL MVP in 1952 after leading the league in home runs and RBI for the Cubs. His solo 1951 Bowman rookie card is exceedingly rare, with the highest sales reaching $12,000-15,000 depending on condition. Even low-grade copies in the $3,000 range.

1969 Topps #500 Fergie Jenkins – A Hall of Famer who won the Cy Young Award during his time with the Cubs, Fergie Jenkins’ rookie card from his breakout 1969 season is a must-have for any serious Cubs PC. High grades have sold for $7,000+, with most examples bringing $2,000-4,000.

1974 Topps Traded #T87 Ron Santo – Ron Santo made the All-Star team multiple times as the Cubs’ star third baseman and is still beloved by the fanbase today. His scarce 1974 traded card shows him in an Expos uniform after being dealt late in his career. Near-mint copies have reached $6,000 at auction.

1984 Donruss #34 Ryne Sandberg – Considered one of the greatest second basemen ever, Ryne Sandberg was a franchise cornerstone for the Cubs in the 1980s. His rookie card from Donruss is highly sought after, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $5,000. Most grade in the $1,000-2,000 range.

1989 Upper Deck #1 Gregg Maddux – Before becoming a legend with the Braves, Greg Maddux broke in with the Cubs and won the first of his four Cy Young Awards in 1992. His sparkling rookie card is highly valuable at $3,000+ for top condition. Even well-worn copies still fetch $500.

2002 Bowman’s Best Refractors #R4-4 Mark Prior – Mark Prior broke out as one of baseball’s most exciting young arms before injuries derailed his career. His refractor rookie from 2002 Bowman’s Best in pristine condition has reached $4,000 at auction. Most grade around $1,000-1,500 still.

2003 SP Authentic #75 Sammy Sosa – One of the most prolific power hitters in Cubs history who led the NL in home runs multiple times in the late 90s/early 00s. A Sosa autograph card from 2003 SP Authentic in high grade sold for $3,000. Autographs always add value.

While it’s unlikely any casual Cubs fan has a true blockbuster card in their collection, there could be some valuable gems from players like Banks, Williams, Jenkins, Sandberg, and more worth having appraised and graded. Taking the time to properly store and protect your cards is key to preserving their condition and potential value over the long run as well. With the Cubs’ century-plus history, there are plenty more valuable cards we didn’t cover too. Happy hunting!

BASEBALL CARDS 1995

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The 1995 baseball card season was a transitional year for the hobby as it moved from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s into a more refined collection landscape. Several new sets were released by the major card companies while legendary brands also saw changes that same year.

Fleer led the way with their flagship ’95 Fleer baseball card set. It contained 792 total cards including rookie cards for future stars Nomar Garciaparra, Todd Helton, and Paul Konerko. The design featured individual player photos with team logos above them on a white background. Checklists, manager/coach cards, and special ‘Fleer Fan Favorites’ parallels were also included. This set marked one of the last few years Fleer produced over 700 cards before paring down sets in later seasons.

Topps released their standard ’95 Topps baseball card set which included 762 total cards. Notable rookie cards included Garciaparra, Helton, Konerko, and Carlos Beltran. The design was similar to previous Topps issues with team logo boxes behind each player photo. Special ‘Topps Gold Label’ parallel cards could also be pulled. This was the last Topps flagship set to top 700 cards before downsizing in 1996 and beyond.

Upper Deck broke the mold in ’95 with their ‘Upper Deck SP’ set. Featuring just 396 total cards, it marked a significant reduction in size from previous years. The cards contained superb photography and cutting edge hologram technology on each image. Rated by collectors as one of the best looking sets of the decade, it was a sign that card companies were moving towards higher quality over quantity. Rookie cards of Lance Berkman, Matt Morris, and Todd Helton highlighted the SP set.

Donruss also released a standard ’95 Donruss baseball card set. With 528 total cards, it fell in between the larger Topps/Fleer issues and smaller Upper Deck offering. The design featured individual photos with team logos below. Notable rookies included Jim Edmonds, Todd Helton, and Carlos Beltran. ‘Donruss Studio’ parallel inserts could also be pulled.

In non-flagship sets, Upper Deck produced their popular ’95 Upper Deck Collector’s Choice’ which contained parallel ‘Gold’ and ‘Gold Reserve’ insert sets within the base checklist. The ’95 Leaf Limited brand was also introduced, featuring premium rookie cards and parallels in a smaller 144 card checklist.

Two legendary card brands saw major changes in 1995. The ’95 Bowman brand was the final set produced under the Bowman name before Topps acquired the rights going forward. It contained a solid 312 card checklist including rookie cards of Andruw Jones, Lance Berkman, and Todd Helton.

Meanwhile, the ’95 Fleer Tradition brand was the last under the Fleer label before ownership changed hands. Highlighted by a Derek Jeter rookie card, it represented the end of an era for the once top brand. Both Bowman and Fleer Tradition would be rebranded in 1996 kicking off new chapters in baseball card history.

In the world of inserts and parallels, the ’95 Upper Deck E-X 2000 brand featured premium rookie and star player inserts with futuristic designs and holograms. The ’95 Score Select set contained parallel ‘Gold Medallion’ inserts that were highly coveted by collectors. And the ’95 Pinnacle Inside brand featured parallel ‘Inside Out’ and ‘Inside In’ inserts within its base checklist.

In the world of memorabilia and autograph cards, the ’95 Leaf Limited Signature Edition’ brand contained autographed cards from stars of the past and present. And the ’95 Ultra Platinum brand from Upper Deck included rare autographs, memorabilia cards, and 1/1 parallel inserts of the game’s biggest names. These high-end inserts marked the beginning of what would become today’s booming memorabilia card market.

By 1995, the junk wax era was clearly coming to an end as card companies focused more on quality over quantity and introduced new technologies like holograms. Rookie classes led by Garciaparra, Helton, and Konerko offered collectors excitement for the future. And legendary brands like Bowman and Fleer Tradition transitioned to new ownership kicking off major changes. The ’95 season represented both an end of an era but also the beginning stages of the modern baseball card collecting landscape.

1993 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS BOX

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The 1993 Fleer baseball card set was the final major release from the Fleer company before their license with MLB expired. It would be their last flagship set until acquiring a license again in 2000. The 1993 Fleer card box marked the end of an era for the company.

Fleer had been printing baseball cards continuously since 1981 and helped bring the hobby mainstream popularity throughout the 1980s alongside Topps. Their sets were known for being colorful with unique photos and focused heavily on star players. By the early 1990s, the baseball card bubble was showing signs of bursting as overproduction hurt collectability and sales declined.

Still, Fleer went all out for their 1993 offering. The cardboard box held 216 total cards with each pack containing 11 cards. It featured a classic black and white design with team logos down the sides and “1993 Fleer Baseball” printed across the front in large red letters. On the back was an advertisement for the set’s contents and statistics about some of the top rookies and stars included in the packs.

Inside each box were 24 wax paper packs. These had a fun rainbow gradient design on a white background. Each pack was sealed with a small adhesive flap. Opening these packs was part of the excitement and revealed the mystery of which players might be inside. Some noticeable rookies in the 1993 Fleer set included Todd Helton, Jason Giambi, Roy Halladay, and Vladimir Guerrero, among others.

The design of the 1993 Fleer cards themselves continued on from previous years. Each measured 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches and was printed on a grayish cardboard stock. Player photos took up most of the front with team logos in the bottom corners. Backs included career statistics and brief player bios. Serial numbers on the bottom right corners were a consistent feature as well. What made 1993 cards stand out was the vibrant photography and lively colors used.

Some of the biggest stars showcased in the 1993 Fleer box included Barry Bonds, Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr, Cal Ripken Jr, and others. Legends like Nolan Ryan and George Brett also received prominent card placements within the set. Rarer “hit” cards inserted randomly in packs added variety. These included Special Edition Photos, Team Checklists, and Record Breaker highlight cards. The level of talent and notability captured in the 1993 Fleer set remained high in its final year.

Beyond just the cards themselves, opening a 1993 Fleer baseball box was an experience. The anticipation of the first pack rip echoed memories of childhood. Sifting through the piles of commons in search of stars or those elusive short printed hits took collectors back to a simpler time. Even today, 1993 Fleer boxes retain significant nostalgia and collectability due to commemorating the end of Fleer’s long MLB run before Topps regained the exclusive license.

On the resale market, a sealed 1993 Fleer box in mint condition can fetch over $150-200 today. Loose packs sell for $5-10 each depending on condition. Key star rookie cards like Helton and Giambi have appreciably increased in value given their Hall of Fame careers. Even common players hold modest value due to the fleeting nature of the Fleer license during that era. As one of the final releases before the company’s hiatus, 1993 Fleer boxes remain a prized collectible and important point in the evolution of the modern baseball card industry.

Opening a 1993 Fleer baseball card box was a multi-sensory experience that evoked the heyday of the hobby during childhood. The box and pack design, vast selection of talent featured on the vibrant cards within, and thrill of the card rip all combined to make 1993 Fleer a nostalgic collectible today. It marked both the pinnacle achievement and closing chapter for Fleer’s long run making baseball cards prior to losing their MLBPA license. For these reasons, 1993 Fleer boxes retain powerful nostalgia and appeal to collectors decades later.

SGC GRADING BASEBALL CARDS

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Introduction to SGC Grading Baseball Cards

The Sports Collectibles Guaranty LLC, more commonly known as SGC, is a leading third-party authentication and grading service for collectibles such as sports cards, comic books, and memorabilia. Founded in 2000, SGC has rapidly grown to become one of the top authentication companies in the collectibles industry alongside leaders PSA and BGS. This article will provide an in-depth look at SGC and their services for grading baseball cards, including history, grading process, turnaround times, holder designs, and more.

History and Background of SGC

SGC began authenticating and grading collectibles in 2000 with a focus on vintage cards from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s that were in higher grades. They aimed to be more affordable and provide faster turnaround than the established PSA and BGS services. Over the past two decades, SGC has expanded their services to include modern sports cards from the 90s onward as well as other collectibles. By 2007, they had overtaken BGS to become the third largest grading company behind only PSA.

Today SGC operates out of facilities in Illinois and Florida with over 20 full-time employees dedicated to authentication, grading, customer service, and quality control. They have graded millions of collectibles and remain focused on providing an affordable alternative to the “big two” grading companies. Some key events in SGC’s history include opening international fulfillment centers in 2014, unveiling ultra-modern “SGC Elite” holders in 2016, and releasing new encased “Black Label” holders in 2021.

The SGC Grading Process

Like other authentication companies, SGC has a multi-step process for properly grading collectibles:

Submission – Customers package items and submit order forms/fees to SGC. Shipping/insurance is the customer’s responsibility.

Authentication – SGC authenticators inspect items under high-power loupes to verify authenticity. Replicas/fakes are rejected ungraded.

Grading – Graders examine the item, considering factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface. Using the established 1-10 point scale, a numeric grade is assigned.

Holdering – Authenticated and graded items are then sealed in tamper-proof SGC holders with the assigned grade, ID number, and other info.

Shipping – Once holdered, items are returned to the customer along with a printed grading details sheet within their estimated turnaround timeframe.

This thorough process ensures consistent, impartial grading while detecting counterfeits. Customers can track order status online throughout the entire process.

SGC Baseball Card Grading Scale

Like PSA and BGS, SGC uses the established 1-10 point numerical scale to grade the condition and quality of baseball cards:

1 (Poor): Cards in very rough shape with heavy wear
2-4 (Poor-Good): Significant wear, flaws present
5 (Excellent): Noticeable wear but still solid condition
6 (Near Mint): Light wear, small flaws may be present
7 (Mint): Very minimal wear, edges/corners remain sharp
8 (Gem Mint): No discernible flaws, near pristine
9 (Mint): Pristine, eligible for finest registries
10 (Gem Mint Black Label): Flawless, best of the best cards

Beyond the numerical grade, SGC also assigns descriptive labels to grades like “Ex” for 5.5 and terms like “Gem” for exceptionally high grades. Their population reports provide statistics on how often each grade is assigned as a benchmark for condition rarity.

SGC Holder Designs

One of SGC’s strengths is their aesthetically pleasing yet practical holder designs:

Standard Holders: Black with silver SGC logo for most vintage/modern cards graded 1-8.

“Elite” Holders: Modern clear holder with diagonal SGC banner for higher value 9-10 cards.

“Black Label” Holders: Encapsulated in a clear encased box with gold banner for true virtuosic Gem Mint 10 cards.

“Slab” Holders: Larger protective holders for valuable vintage cards, stamps, autographs, etc.

All SGC holders have tamper-proof sealing, grade designation, issue date/details printed directly on the holder surface for clear viewing without opening. This not only authenticates but displays graded cards beautifully for collection/resale purposes.

Turnaround Times and Service Options

Standard SGC card grading takes approximately 3-6 weeks once received depending on volume. Express/rush services are available for an additional fee with timelines like:

Express – 3 business days post-delivery
10 Day Service – 10 calendar days post-delivery
3 Week Service – 3 calendar weeks post-delivery

Larger bulk/dealer submissions may be subject to different rates and timelines. Customers can also add value-added services like authenticating encased unopened wax packs/boxes from the 80s/90s vintage era.

Reputable resubmission policies allow cards to potentially upgrade in grade with no penalty. Most major card dealers/distributors offer SGC grading submission/consignment programs as well. Overall their turnarounds and various offerings make SGC accessible for collectors of any budget.

The Market Acceptance of SGC Graded Cards

While still not quite on par with the golden standard of PSA for value, SGC graded cards enjoy strong demand and marketplace acceptance thanks to their reputation as a trusted third-party authenticator:

Modern sports cards – Graded SGC rookies/stars of the 90s/2000s achieve 95-98% value compared to PSA.

Vintage cards – High grade vintage SGC slabs command 80-90% value vs. PSA due to limited population reports proving rarity.

Auction houses – Major online auction platforms like eBay and Heritage accept SGC holders on par with PSA/BGS.

Private/dealer sales – Savvy collectors recognize SGC as a respected brand, allowing cards to sell near PSA prices in many cases.

As SGC continues to refine processes and holder designs, their mainstream collector acceptance will only increase over time as a formidable alternative to pricier grading services. Overall grading with SGC provides both authentication assurance and strong resale/trade value.

Conclusion

The Sports Collectibles Guaranty has grown into an elite third-party authenticator and grader over 20 years focused on affordability, customer service, and developing an outstanding reputation with collectors and dealers. Their tried and true grading process paired with attractive holders have certified millions of sports and other collectibles, including some of the most valuable vintage and modern baseball cards. While still often a value option compared to the top two, SGC graded items enjoy near universal acceptance and command top dollar based on their assigned numerical grades. Collectors can feel secure in SGC’s abilities to properly authenticate, appraise condition, and encapsulate their prized cards.

BASEBALL’s ALL TIME GREATS GREEN CARDS

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Baseball’s All-Time Greats Green Cards

Baseball has been around for over 150 years in America and throughout that history, the game has seen some truly legendary players step up to the plate. From Babe Ruth’s home run prowess to Sandy Koufax’s pinpoint control, the sport is filled with stories of amazing athletes who pushed the limits of what was possible on the field. While stats and records help define greatness, one thing that truly cements an athlete’s legacy is having their face featured on a “green card.” These collectible cards highlight some of the most revered figures to ever play the game and signify their status among the pantheon of all-time baseball icons. Here is a closer look at 10 of the game’s greatest players who have earned the honor of being immortalized on a green card.

Babe Ruth: Arguably the most famous baseball player of all time, “the Bambino” revolutionized the home run and completely changed how the game was played. His record 60 home runs in a single season in 1927 still stands as one of sports’ most unbreakable marks. Ruth led the league in home runs five times and slugging percentage four times over his 22-year career. He finished with a .342 batting average and 714 career home runs, numbers that were thought untouchable for decades. His dominance and charisma helped grow the sport’s popularity nationwide in the early 20th century.

Ty Cobb: A ferocious competitor, “the Georgia Peach” set 90 major league records during his career from 1905 to 1928. He still holds the all-time records for career batting average at .366 and career runs scored with 2,245. Cobb was also an excellent base stealer and led the league in that category 12 consecutive seasons. His aggressive, gritty style of play came to define him, though it also made him one of the most controversial figures in the early game. Cobb won the American League batting title 12 times and was the first player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Honus Wagner: One of the first true five-tool players, Wagner was an excellent hitter, fielder, and baserunner who could do it all on the field. He played shortstop and led the National League in batting average eight times between 1900-1917. Wagner hit over .300 in 17 seasons and finished his career with a .327 average. Considered one of the best fielders of his era as well, Wagner helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win nine NL pennants. He was a pioneer of inside-out swinging and his defensive skills at shortstop were unmatched.

Cy Young: No pitcher has won more games in baseball history than “the Big Train” who racked up 511 victories over his 22-year career from 1890 to 1911. Young led the National League in wins seven times and strikeouts four times. He won 20 or more games in a season 15 times and tossed three no-hitters. Young posted an incredible 1.82 ERA during his time in the National League before moving to the American League later in his career. He won the AL pennant with Boston in his final season of 1911 at age 44, cementing his status as one of the game’s first true pitching legends.

Walter Johnson: Standing 6’1″ and possessing a blazing fastball, “the Big Train from Washington” struck fear into batters for over two decades with the Senators from 1907-1927. Johnson led the AL in wins 10 times, ERA twice, and strikeouts a record 12 times. He racked up 417 career wins, a record at the time, and struck out a whopping 3,509 batters. Johnson’s control was impeccable as he walked just 1.1 batters per nine innings for his career. His blazing heat and pinpoint command made him the most dominant pitcher of his era.

Christy Mathewson: Another early 20th century hurler who dominated with control and a deep pitch arsenal, “Matty” was the ace of three New York Giants teams that won the World Series from 1905-1908. He led the NL in wins four times and ERA twice over his 17-year career that ended in 1916. Mathewson racked up 373 career victories and tossed two no-hitters and one perfect game. His 2.13 career ERA is one of the lowest of all-time. Mathewson was also a brilliant tactician who helped develop the screwball pitch and was considered a master of changing speeds and locating his pitches.

Ted Williams: “The Splendid Splinter” was simply one of the greatest pure hitters in baseball history. Williams batted over .300 for his career 17 times and led the American League in batting average six times between 1939-1958. He hit a mind-blowing .406 in 1941, the last player to bat over .400 in a single season. Williams finished with a .344 career average and 521 home runs despite missing nearly five seasons serving in WWII and the Korean War. He had phenomenal plate discipline and vision, walking over 2,000 times in his career. Williams’ left-handed swing was a thing of beauty to watch.

Stan Musial: Nicknamed “Stan the Man,” Musial was the consummate all-around hitter who excelled from every spot in the batting order. He batted over .300 in each of his 22 seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals from 1941-1963. Musial led the NL in hits seven times and doubles six times. He racked up 3,630 career hits, 475 home runs, and batted an incredible .331 lifetime. Musial won three NL MVP awards and helped lead the Cards to three World Series titles. His hitting prowess from both sides of the plate made him one of the toughest outs in baseball for over two decades.

Willie Mays: “The Say Hey Kid” brought showmanship and highlight-reel plays to centerfield that defined baseball in the 1950s and 1960s. Mays led the NL in home runs three times and stolen bases once during his illustrious 22-year career. He batted .302 lifetime with 660 homers and 338 stolen bases. But it was Mays’ defense that truly set him apart, making over 700 outfield assists and dazzling fans with running, leaping grabs. Widely considered the best all-around player of his era, Mays won two NL MVP awards and helped the New York and San Francisco Giants to three World Series championships.

Mickey Mantle: One of the premier power hitters and centerfielders in baseball history, “the Commerce Comet” was must-see TV during his 18 seasons with the Yankees from 1951-1968. Mantle led the AL in home runs four times and slugging percentage three times. He finished with 536 career homers and a lifetime .298 batting average despite chronic knee injuries that hampered his later years. Mantle won three AL MVP awards and starred on seven World Series championship teams. His tape measure shots and dazzling speed in the outfield captured the imagination of fans everywhere during baseball’s golden age in the 1950s and 60s.

Those are just 10 of the baseball legends who have earned a spot on the exclusive list of players immortalized on green cards. From the deadball era greats like Wagner and Mathewson to modern sluggers like Mays and Mantle, each one redefined what was possible on the diamond and cemented a legacy as one of the game’s true icons. While stats, accolades and championships all factor into defining greatness, being selected for a green card may be the highest honor of all, signifying one’s place among the pantheon of all-time baseball immortals. Their exploits on the field helped grow the sport’s popularity for generations and inspired millions of future ballplayers.

BASEBALL CARDS IN QUAD CITIES

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The Quad Cities area of eastern Iowa and western Illinois has a rich history with baseball cards that spans decades. While the major league baseball teams of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox have brought national attention to the Midwest, the Quad Cities has nurtured its own vibrant baseball card culture at the local level through hobby shops, collectors, and the minor league teams that have called the area home.

Some of the earliest memories longtime Quad Cities residents have involve browsing the racks at local drugstores and convenience stores, hoping to find their favorite players featured on the cardboard rectangles kept safely in plastic sleeves. In the 1960s and 70s, stores like Walgreens, Clark, and Osco sold loose packs of cards from Topps, Fleer, and other manufacturers for affordable prices. Kids would pool their allowance money, not knowing which stars or scrubs might emerge from the wrapper.

Regional hobby shops also helped develop local interest in baseball cards during this time. Stores in Davenport and Moline like Ernie’s Sports Cards and The Card Shop provided more specialized inventory beyond what the drugstores carried. Here, collectors could find older vintage cards to add to their collections, sometimes trading or selling duplicates to other patrons. Ernie’s Sports Cards, founded in 1973, is still in operation today and counts many lifelong customers who first discovered their passion for the hobby within its walls.

As the 1980s arrived, card collecting exploded into a nationwide phenomenon fueled by the rise of expensive premium rookie cards featuring future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr. The Quad Cities witnessed this boom firsthand, as local card shows sprouted up regularly where collectors could browse tables loaded with wares. Some of the largest and best-attended shows were held at the iWireless Center, North Scott High School, and other event spaces. Vendors would come from surrounding states to do business, and attendees spanned all ages.

During baseball’s steroid era of the late 90s and 2000s, interest in modern cards began to wane industry-wide. In the Quad Cities, a thriving vintage market developed among collectors seeking older cardboard from the 1950s through 80s. Ebay provided a new avenue for enthusiasts worldwide to obtain even the most obscure regional issues they had never seen before. Local collectors like Mark Smith and the late Roger Johnson became known across the collecting community for their immense vintage holdings, including complete rainbow sets of legendary 1950s and 60s Topps issues that are among the finest known to exist.

In addition to hobby shops and shows, the Quad Cities’ long minor league baseball tradition has kept card collecting alive on a local level. From the Quad City Angels and Quad City River Bandits to the current Quad Cities River Bandits, generations have enjoyed following future major leaguers as they played in town before moving up the ladder. Limited edition team sets produced by manufacturers like Topps, Leaf, and Donruss over the decades featuring players like Nomar Mazara and Jonathan Schoop gained popularity among diehard River Bandits fans looking to commemorate each season.

Today, while the internet has decentralized the hobby, local card shops still thrive by catering to their niche. Ernie’s Sports Cards remains the epicenter for all things collecting in the Quad Cities. Meanwhile, newer stores like 4 Corners Cards and Collectibles in Davenport have emerged to serve the next generation. Online groups on Facebook also foster connections between collectors in the area, where they can discuss the latest River Bandits cards, organize meetups, or facilitate trades.

Through its card-loving community, vibrant minor league scene, and historic hobby shops, the Quad Cities area has cemented itself as a hotbed for baseball card fandom. Multigenerational local collectors ensure the cardboard culture that took root here decades ago continues to thrive today, keeping cherished childhood memories alive for many.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS 1990 TOPPS

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The 1990 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While the overproduction of cards during this time period suppressed prices for many years, certain star players and key rookie cards from the 1990 Topps set have stood the test of time and appreciated greatly in value. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the best and most valuable cards collectors seek out from the 1990 Topps baseball card release.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1990 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best pure hitters of his generation, Griffey was already showing superstar potential in his rookie season of 1989. His smiling face and smooth left-handed swing translated perfectly onto the card. While production numbers were immense for 1990 Topps overall, Griffey’s rookie card is still relatively scarce in high grade. In near mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for thousands of dollars today. The card captured Griffey at the very beginning of what became a surefire Hall of Fame career.

Another extremely valuable rookie card from 1990 Topps is Chipper Jones. Arguably the greatest switch hitter in baseball history, Jones broke into the majors with the Braves in 1995 and spent his entire 19-year career in Atlanta. Jones went on to win the 1999 NL MVP and ring up over 450 home runs and 1,600 RBI for his career. Like Griffey, the Chipper Jones rookie card has strong iconic imagery that still resonates today. High grade versions can reach four figures or more. The card is a must-have for any serious baseball or Braves PC.

1990 Topps also featured the rookie cards of other all-time greats like Tom Glavine, David Justice, and Gregg Olson. While not as expensive as Griffey or Chipper, these cards still hold significant value for collectors due to the players’ sustained MLB success. Glavine went on to become a Hall of Fame pitcher and anchor of the Braves rotation for decades. Justice was a consistent power threat in the home run-happy 1990s. And Olson developed into a top closer after the debut teased on his Topps rookie.

In addition to star rookies, the 1990 Topps set highlighted many of baseball’s biggest names from the late 80s and early 90s. Arguably the most coveted veterans card is the Ken Griffey Sr. This is one of just a handful of Senior’s solo cards during his impressive career. The crisp image and father-son dynamic with Ken Jr. adds nostalgia. Other highly valuable veteran cards include Nolan Ryan in his final season, Ozzie Smith near the end of his playing days, and Robin Yount leading off the set in the action photo pictured on his 1989 AL MVP award card. Each of these aging greats command four-figure values in top condition today.

Beyond star players, error cards and oddball short prints added to the allure of the 1990 Topps collection. The famed “Blank Back” Barry Bonds card is revered by collectors due to its scarcity and visual oddity relative to the standard issue. Another peculiar variation is the Mark Lemke card that was accidentally printed with his statistics from the previous season. Error cards like these hold considerable rarity value. Deliberately printed short prints of players like Randy Johnson, Eddie Murray and others have also gained cult followings.

In summarizing, while production hurt short term prices, the 1990 Topps baseball card set endured because it featured the budding careers of future all-time greats like Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, and Tom Glavine. Iconic veterans like Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith in the late stages of their careers also attract collectors. Combined with intriguing errors and variations, the 1990 Topps release has built a legacy as one of the most intriguing sets from the junk wax era. Top rookie cards,stars of the era and peculiar short prints make it a set worth exploring for any sports card investor or collector.