DIAMOND KINGS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Diamond Kings Baseball Cards: A History of an Iconic Brand

Diamond Kings baseball cards have been a staple in the hobby for decades, earning their status as one of the most iconic and beloved brands in the industry. What started as a small operation with a passion for the game has grown into a powerhouse known for quality products, innovative designs, and capturing the essence of baseball. In this in-depth look, we’ll explore the history of Diamond Kings from its founding to the present day.

The company was founded in 1978 by two childhood friends and lifelong baseball fans, Mark Johnson and David Wilson. With a shared love of the sport and collecting its memorabilia, they decided to try their hand at producing their own baseball cards. Operating out of a small garage in Ohio, they printed their first set featuring players from that year’s All-Star Game. Despite humble beginnings, the cards were a hit with collectors in their local card shops.

Encouraged by the positive reception, Johnson and Wilson committed fully to the venture. In 1979, they released their first major set covering the entire MLB, featuring over 350 cards. Attention to detail was paramount from the beginning, with crisp photography, informative stats on the back, and premium stock that have become hallmarks of the Diamond Kings brand. Their dedication paid off as the sets sold well and attracted the attention of collectors nationwide. This put Diamond Kings on the map and established them as serious players in the booming baseball card industry.

Throughout the 1980s, Diamond Kings cemented their reputation with innovative annual sets that captured the essence of baseball. They were early adopters of action shots, close-up portraits, and unique parallel sets featuring variations in design. Sets like “Diamond Gems” and “Diamond Anniversary” showcased the artistry possible within the hobby. Robust rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn added to their appeal. Distribution expanded globally, making Diamond Kings a household name for baseball card aficionados worldwide.

As technology advanced, Diamond Kings stayed on the cutting edge. In the 1990s, they embraced the shift to color photography and introduced holograms, embossing, and other special effects to their designs. Groundbreaking sets like “Diamond Icons” and “Diamond Legends” paid tribute to baseball’s storied past with retro-style cards of legends long retired. Insert sets highlighting milestone achievements kept the hobby fresh. Their attention to historical accuracy and storytelling resonated strongly with collectors.

The 21st century has seen Diamond Kings reach new heights by continuing to push creative boundaries. Innovations like dual portraits, autographed memorabilia cards, and embedded video clips brought interactivity to the hobby. Limited editions with serial numbering and intricate parallels satisfied high-end collectors. Subject matter expanded beyond MLB to minor leagues, negro leagues, international players and more. Collabs with MLB, HOF, and individual clubs added authenticity. Digital initiatives keep the brand relevant for new generations of fans.

Today, Diamond Kings is regarded as the standard bearer, producing some of the most visually stunning and historically significant baseball card sets in the industry. Annual flagship releases like Diamond Elite and Diamond Anniversary are must-owns for dedicated collectors. Under the leadership of Mark Johnson’s son Tyler, Diamond Kings looks to continue honoring baseball’s past while innovating its future for decades to come. Through it all, their commitment to quality, storytelling and capturing the soul of America’s pastime has cemented Diamond Kings’ iconic status.Here is an 18,000 character article on Diamond Kings Baseball Cards:

Diamond Kings Baseball Cards: A Brief History and Guide to the Modern Set

Diamond Kings is a beloved brand of baseball cards known for its unique style and focus on capturing the essence of America’s pastime. While the brand may not be as widely collected as Topps or Upper Deck cards, Diamond Kings has earned a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate its artistic flair and dedication to the game. Let’s take a deeper look at the history of this underrated card company and what collectors can expect from modern Diamond Kings releases.

The Diamond Kings brand was established in 1990 by cardboard manufacturer Pacific Trading Cards. Their inaugural set that year featured designs heavily inspired by classic tobacco cards from the early 20th century. Images were borderless and utilized a sepia tone color palette to mimic the worn, vintage aesthetic. Rather than focus on statistics, Diamond Kings cards aimed to tell the story of each player through imaginative illustrations and descriptive text on the back.

While initial print runs were modest, the unique presentation caught on with collectors seeking a change of pace from the standard cardboard offerings. Subsequent early 90s sets like 1991 Diamond Kings and 1992 Diamond Kings continued to build on the retro style. Illustrations became more detailed and colorful. Backs provided insightful biographies that brought each ballplayer’s personality and career achievements to life.

The brand hit its commercial stride in the mid-90s. Their 1995 release is considered a seminal set that expanded distribution while retaining the hand-drawn artistic flair. Players were now depicted in action shots within colorful team logo borders. Stats were included for the first time but remained secondary to narrative highlights. Strong sales through the late 90s allowed Diamond Kings to experiment with parallel inserts highlighting milestones, turn-of-the-century stars, and Negro Leagues greats.

As the collectibles industry boomed in the late 90s, Diamond Kings released some of their most ambitious projects to date. 1997 Diamond Kings paid tribute to the legendary 1927 Yankees with period-accurate illustrations. Their 1998 release celebrated baseball’s earliest decades with cards mimicking tobacco formats from the 1880s-1920s. Limited parallel issues within brought obscure figures from the games past to the fore.

The 2000s saw Diamond Kings continue to evolve while staying true to their artistic roots. New technologies allowed for sharper, bolder illustrations that popped off the card stock. Backs incorporated more stats while keeping biographical overviews. Insert sets paid homage to iconic stadiums and celebrated milestones in baseball history. Parallels grew in popularity, with short print “relic” cards incorporating authentic jersey swatches.

In the modern era, Diamond Kings has found success by embracing digital printing technologies while retaining the hand-drawn aesthetic collectors love. Their 2021 flagship set showcases each player with dynamic action poses set against colorful team logo borders. Backs provide stats, career highlights, and fun facts written in a narrative style. Insert sets within focus on milestone achievements, turn-back-the-clock designs, and tributes to icons of the past and present.

Limited parallels remain a key part of the brand’s appeal, with serial-numbered versions on specialty stock incorporating authentic memorabilia. “Hit List” short prints feature some of the game’s biggest stars on retro-styled cards with serial numbers under 100 copies. Autograph and memorabilia cards signed by both current superstars and legends of yesteryear are highly sought after by enthusiasts.

While it may lack the widespread distribution of giants like Topps and Panini, Diamond Kings has carved out a devoted niche among collectors who appreciate its unique artistic flair and storytelling approach. Modern sets remain affordable for most while delivering the hand-drawn visuals and narrative highlights that first attracted fans decades ago. With sharp digital designs, compelling parallels, and a dedication to honoring baseball’s rich history, Diamond Kings continues to deliver a refreshing alternative to mainstream cardboard in both style and substance. Their passion for the game shines through on each and every card for enthusiasts of America’s pastime.

300 BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball card collecting has been a beloved hobby for generations. Trying to amass a complete set of cards from a season or build a collection focused on a favorite player or team can become an obsession for many collectors. While some of the rarest, most valuable cards could sell for millions, for most collectors it is the journey of finding cards and growing their collection that brings the most enjoyment. Here is an in-depth look at 300 baseball cards that span the early years of the hobby up to modern issues.

One of the earliest and most iconic baseball cards is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, this card features the legendary Pittsburgh Pirate shortstop Honus Wagner. Only around 60 copies are known to exist today in various conditions. The card has always been one of the most coveted among collectors due to its rarity, the stature of the player featured, and the beautiful artwork. In pristine condition, a T206 Wagner has sold for over $3 million, making it one of the most valuable collectibles in the world.

Another early and highly valuable card is the 1914 Cracker Jack Dazzy Vance. Considered one of the premier pitchers of the Deadball Era, Vance is pictured wearing a Brooklyn Robins uniform. Only a small number of the 1914 Cracker Jack issues are known to exist. One that recently went up for auction in gem mint condition was expected to sell for over $500,000. Cards from sets produced between 1909-1914 by companies like T206, E90-1, and M101-8 are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and quality of artwork. Stars featured include Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and Christy Mathewson.

Moving into the 1920s, the most iconic set is the 1922 E90-A set produced by Exhibits Inc. for the American Caramel Company. This was the first modern set that included gum or candy in the packaging. Top cards include Babe Ruth in his first year with the Yankees and Hall of Famer Edd Roush. High grade copies of stars like Ruth, Roush, and Ken Williams can sell for thousands. The Goudey Gum Company started producing cards in 1933. Their 1933 and 1934 issues featured intricate photo portraits and are very collectible, with Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, and Dizzy Dean among the top cards.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the most widely produced and collected sets came from manufacturers like Goudey, Play Ball, and Leaf. These issues helped grow the hobby significantly. Stars of the era like Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Stan Musial are highly sought after. The 1933 Goudey Jimmie Foxx is considered one of the most iconic cards of the decade with its beautiful artwork. High grade versions can sell for over $10,000. The 1936 Goudey Hank Greenberg is another highly valuable card at $5,000+.

After World War II, the hobby boomed with the advent of modern cardboard production and sets issued by Bowman, Topps, and others. The 1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson RC opened the door for Blacks in Major League Baseball and is hugely significant, selling for over $400,000 in top condition. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is his first card produced by the Topps company and regarded as one of the most popular and valuable of all time at $100,000+. Top rookie cards from the 1950s like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Sandy Koufax can reach $50,000 in high grade.

Some iconic 1960s cards that sell for thousands include the 1961 Topps Roger Maris after his 61 home run season ($4,000), 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan ($3,000), and 1965 Topps Sandy Koufax with his perfect game notation ($2,500). The 1960 Topps Roberto Clemente and 1964 Topps Willie Mays are regarded as some of the most attractive card designs of the decade as well. The 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson rookie introduced Mr. October to the hobby and can reach $10,000 in pristine condition.

Entering the 1970s, some valuable commons include the 1971 Topps Thurman Munson ($1,000), 1972 Topps Johnny Bench ($800), and the 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie ($750). The 1973 Topps Nolan Ryan with his no-hitter depicted is a highly sought after card at $2,000. Highlights of the decade include the 1975 Topps Fred Lynn rookie ($3,500) and the iconic 1977 Topps O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card (over $20,000) which introduced many to hockey cards as well. The 1970s also saw the rise of the annual Traded set with players swapped to new teams.

In the 1980s, the arrival of Star Company and later Upper Deck challenged Topps’ monopoly. This fueled creativity and increased production. The iconic 1984 Topps Ken Griffey Jr. rookie introduced “The Kid” and can reach $5,000. The 1987 Topps Mark McGwire rookie debuted “Big Mac” and his home run chase with Sosa in the late 90s ($2,000). Highlights also include rookies of Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds. The 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. is the flagship rookie card of the brand’s debut and considered the most valuable modern card at $10,000+.

Some 1990s standouts are the iconic 1992 Bowman Derek Jeter rookie ($3,000), 1993 SP Derek Jeter ($2,000), and the ultra-rare 1992 Bowman’s Best Ken Griffey Jr. Printing Plate 1/1 ($150,000). The 1990 Topps Frank Thomas rookie introduced the “Big Hurt” ($1,000). The 1995 Pinnacle Inside Traxx Mike Piazza reflects his record-setting season for catchers ($800). The 1990 Score Ken Griffey Jr. is one of the most iconic modern designs ($500). The rise of parallels, inserts, and autographs in the 90s increased collecting options as well.

Into the 2000s and 2010s, the hobby has seen stratospheric increases in the values of modern stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts, and Ronald Acuña Jr. The 2009 Bowman Draft Mike Trout rookie is the flagship card and among the most valuable ever at $400,000. The 2010 Bowman Sterling Bryce Harper introduced “Harper Fever” at $10,000. The 2018 Topps Update Mookie Betts autograph reflects his 2018 MVP season at $3,000. And the 2018 Bowman Platinum Ronald Acuña Jr. rookie debuted baseball’s newest superstar at $1,500. Modern parallels and autographs of stars like these continue driving record prices.

This overview touched on just 300 cards, but the possibilities are endless within the vast world of baseball cards. Whether seeking vintage gems, stars of eras past, or following today’s emerging talents – the thrill of the chase and growing a collection remains an enduring part of the hobby’s appeal. With new players and sets always on the horizon, the future remains bright for baseball cards to connect generations of fans to America’s pastime for years to come.

1993 FLEER FINAL EDITION BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1993 Fleer Final Edition baseball card set hold a special place in the history of the sport and the collectible card industry. As the name implies, it was Fleer’s last hurrah in the baseball card market before losing the MLB license to rivals Topps beginning in 1994. The set features ambitious photography and creative card designs to celebrate Fleer’s run producing licensed baseball cards. While not the most valuable set in the hobby, certain 1993 Fleer Final Edition cards have increased significantly in value over time. Others remain affordable for collectors of all levels.

The set contains 264 total cards including player cards, manager/coach cards, team checklists and special insert cards. Rosters include both the American and National Leagues from the 1993 season. Some notable rookie cards featured include Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, Jason Giambi, and Eric Chavez. Popular veterans like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and Ken Griffey Jr. also have cards. The photography and borders are what set this set apart visually. Crisp action shots pop against colorful borders in team colors. Behind-the-scenes photos were also included on some cards to give fans an insider look.

Perhaps most famous from the 1993 Fleer Final Edition set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already a rising star and fan favorite at the time. His clean swing and effortless athleticism made him perfect for the Fleer treatment. The Griffey rookie has steadily increased in value since the early 1990s. Even well-loved copies in PSA Gem Mint 10 grade can fetch over $10,000 today. High-grade versions in PSA 10 are six-figure cards. Other rookies that have shown strong long-term gains include Nomar Garciaparra and Jason Giambi. Mint copies of their first cards from 1993 Fleer Final Edition sell for $300-500 range currently.

While Griffey, Nomar and Giambi rookie cards lead the pack, other stars from the set have proven to be solid long-term investments as well. Barry Bonds cards were already climbing prior to his record-setting 2007 season. PSA 10 copies of his standard issue card trade for $300-400 nowadays. Tom Glavine, whose 300th win rookie card was prominent here, has also increased significantly over time. High-grade versions can sell for $150-250 range today. Rookies of lesser players have appreciated too when conditions are pristine. For example, a 2003 Bowman Chrome Mike Lowell rookie PSA 10 recently brought over $1,000 at auction. Condition is thus hugely important when valuing 1993 Fleer Final Edition cards.

For players further down the star rankings, there are still affordable options for collectors. Copies of mid-tier vets like Bobby Bonilla, Darren Daulton and Tony Fernandez can often be found raw for under $10. Even lesser known role players from the set will usually fetch $3-5 in played condition. Managing to acquire a true gem mint rookie of an unknown is where real longshot value could exist. And for those seeking affordable vintage cards of favorite childhood players, 1993 Fleer Final Edition often satisfies. Meanwhile, team sets can sometimes be assembled for $50-100 total depending on club popularity.

The 1993 Fleer Final Edition baseball card set holds great nostalgia for many while remaining a viable investment area. Cards of superstars like Ken Griffey Jr. sell for thousands. But there are still opportunities to find affordable singles of other all-time greats and build team sets on a budget. For collectors who admire 1990s card design and photography, it ranks among the most visually striking annual issues. Nearly 30 years later, Fleer’s final baseball publication continues rewarding collectors both financially and emotionally.

T L BASEBALL CARDS HILLSBOROUGH NJ

Leave a reply

T & L Baseball Cards has been a mainstay of the Hillsborough, New Jersey sports collectibles scene for over 35 years. Located right off Route 206 in Hillsborough Shopping Center, T & L is a local landmark for collectors across Central Jersey looking to buy, sell, or trade cards and related memorabilia.

T & L first opened its doors in 1984, founded by longtime friends and collectors Tom Werner and Lou Rehfuss. Both Tom and Lou had been avidly collecting baseball cards and other sports memorabilia since they were kids in the 1960s. By the early 1980s, the hobby was really taking off and becoming mainstream. Tom and Lou saw an opportunity to open a dedicated store where collectors in their area could congregate, compare collections, and conduct transactions.

They started small, renting a small retail space in Hillsborough Shopping Center to test out the concept. From day one it was a success, thanks to their warm welcoming of customers both young and old and their encyclopedic knowledge of the ever-growing hobby. Within a few years they were able to expand to a much larger storefront space, cementing T & L as the place to go for all things collecting in Central Jersey.

Over the decades, T & L has seen countless collectors come through their doors, from new enthusiasts just getting started to grizzled veterans who have been at it since the 1950s. They pride themselves on having friendly, knowledgeable staff who are passionate about helping collectors at all levels to grow and improve their collections. Whether customers are looking for advice on the latest hot rookie cards, assistance with valuing or selling a vintage treasure from their childhood collection, or just a welcoming place to spend a Saturday browsing, T & L delivers the perfect local shop atmosphere.

In addition to carrying an immense inventory of new release cards from the latest MLB, NFL, NBA, and other sports series in stock, T & L is also renowned for its extensive back stock of vintage cardboard. Going back wall to wall are long boxes organized by set and year chock full of treasures from the 1970s through the 1990s. Everything from classic Derek Jeter rookie cards to rare Wilt Chamberlain basketball issues to oddball finds like 1960s hockey or football are there waiting to be discovered.

But T & L is more than just a retail store – it’s a true community hub and gathering place. Every weekend during the spring and summer you can find collectors of all ages seated around the store enjoying lively discussions and card-show-like trading and dealing sessions. The friendly rivalries and camaraderie on display are a joy to witness. T & L also hosts frequent in-store events, from group breaks of the latest highly-anticipated products to guest appearances from retired player alumni.

Beyond just being a buying and selling destination, T & L works hard to give back to the hobby. They are strong supporters of the many local youth and amateur sports leagues in the area, frequently donating cards and merchandise to raffles and auctions to help fund equipment, uniforms, and scholarships. Tom and Lou have also been instrumental volunteers with hobby organizations like the Sports Collectors Hall of Fame, helping to promote the preservation of collectibles history.

After more than 3 decades in business, T & L Baseball Cards remains cherished by the Hillsborough and beyond community. In an era where even national chains have struggled, their personalized friendly customer service and deep roots in the area have kept them thriving while others have come and gone. Stop in next time you’re passing through Hillsborough to experience the magic – you’re sure to build fond memories and find treasure to add to your collection, just like generations of collectors before you. T & L’s legacy is cementing itself as a true local institution for sports cards and memorabilia enthusiasts of all ages.

EXHIBIT BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

Leave a reply

Exhibiting Baseball Cards for Sale at Shows and Events

Baseball cards are a highly collectible hobby item with a large community of enthusiasts. For collectors looking to sell cards from their collection or dealers wanting to expand their inventory, exhibiting at local card shows and conventions can be an effective way to reach buyers. Properly exhibiting cards takes some planning and effort to ensure cards are displayed attractively and in a manner that draws interest from potential customers. This article will provide tips on how to exhibit baseball cards for sale at various events to maximize sales and get the best return on your cards.

The first step is selecting which cards to bring to an event. Focus on higher value vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s as these tend to be the most sought after. Also consider graded cards, rare rookies, star players, and complete sets that can catch a buyer’s eye. Avoid common bulk cards unless you plan to sell them cheaply in lots. Carefully package cards to prevent damage during transport. Ultra Pro one-touch magnetic holders or toploaders inside a sturdy box work well.

When you arrive at a show, the location and setup of your display booth is crucial. Try to secure an aisle spot for maximum visibility. Bring a table, tablecloth, and lighting if possible. Neatly arranged showcases or boxes work better than loose piles of cards. Display key items at eye level for immediate appeal. Group cards thematically by player, team, era, or other logical categories. Consider pricing your items visibly using sticker labels or a written price list for easy browsing.

First impressions matter – make sure your booth area is clean, organized, and visually appealing. Have business cards available and be ready to discuss your items knowledgeably with customers. Smiling, making eye contact, and engaging visitors in a friendly manner will draw them in. Keep distractions like phones away during interactions. Neatly track sold items to avoid confusion. Periodically restock your display as cards are purchased to maintain full visual appeal.

Pricing cards properly is an art. Research recently sold eBay listings to understand current market values. Consider the condition, scarcity, and demand for each card when setting prices. Price high-end items fairly but be willing to negotiate, especially for multiple card purchases. Oversized markups will deter buyers. Bundle common cards into reasonably priced lots to move bulk inventory. Accept various payment methods like cash, checks, PayPal/Venmo for buyer convenience.

Social media is a powerful tool for exhibiting cards. Post photos of your showcase setup and highlight individual items for sale on platforms like Facebook and Instagram leading up to the event. Tag the event page to reach their following as well. Continue posting throughout the show to generate buzz and remind locals of your presence. After the event, follow up with buyers and thank any who shared or commented on your posts. This builds your brand and lays the groundwork for future sales.

Networking is also important. Introduce yourself to other dealers and show organizers. Swapping contact info opens future collaborative opportunities like consignment deals or joint shipping of multiple card collections. Get to know regular show attendees who may become repeat customers. Offer industry insights to fellow collectors browsing your booth. Working the social angles can lead to valuable word-of-mouth promotion and extended your collector reach long-term.

With preparation and the right exhibiting strategies, you can maximize sales of your baseball cards at shows and conventions. Proper setup, pricing, and promotion paired with great customer service will keep buyers returning to your display. With experience, exhibiting can become a profitable way to move cards while also growing your network in the hobby community. Focus on the customer experience and your profits are sure to follow.

1990 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

Leave a reply

The 1990 Fleer baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the more desirable sets from the late 80s and early 90s. While it doesn’t contain any major star rookies, there are several key cards that can be worth a decent amount of money in high grades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the 1990 Fleer cards that hold significant value.

The biggest money card from the 1990 Fleer set is without a doubt the Ken Griffey Jr. This was Griffey’s third year in the league and he was already considered a rising superstar. His vibrant smile and smooth left-handed swing made him a fan favorite. In near mint to mint condition, the Griffey Jr. regularly fetches $50-$75. Highly graded copies in the PSA 8-10 range can sell for hundreds or even over $1000. Due to his iconic status, this will likely remain one of the prized 1990s cards for years to come.

Another star player with desirable cards is Nolan Ryan. At this point in his career, Ryan was pitching exclusively for the Texas Rangers and well past his prime. Collectors still love his cards due to his legendary status. His 1990 Fleer card in top shape can sell for $15-$30. Add in the prestige of a high grade gold label from PSA or BGS and you’re looking at $100+. Legendary players will always be in demand no matter their stage of career.

Roberto Alomar was in the early part of his hall of fame career with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1990. His slick defense and smooth right-handed stroke made him a fan favorite in Canada. The 1990 Fleer Alomar is a solid $10-$20 card in mint condition. As with Griffey and Ryan, grades of PSA 8 and above command quite a premium, with 8s selling around $50-75 and 9s up over $100. Alomar proved to be a true superstar, so demand remains strong for his early career cards.

Perhaps the biggest budget gem from the 1990 Fleer set is the Ken Caminiti rookie card. Caminiti had a breakout season in 1990, batting .272 with 18 home runs for the Houston Astros. He would go on to win the NL MVP in 1996. Inexplicably, his card was short printed and is quite difficult to find in high grades. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for $40-$60. A pristine PSA 10 has sold for over $1000, showing the upside this seemingly ordinary rookie possesses. Caminiti represents the type of overlooked gem that could pay off big for savvy collectors.

Another potential high upside card is the Bobby Witt rookie. Witt was considered the top pitching prospect in baseball and posted a solid debut season for the Rangers in 1990. Injuries plagued his career and he never fully realized his potential. As a result, his card is quite affordable at $5-10 in near mint. But if he were to have a Hall of Fame career retroactively, this could become a true blockbuster. Even in its current state, a high grade PSA 10 has still sold for over $150 showing there is optimism left around Witt’s abilities.

In addition to star players, error cards from 1990 Fleer hold value as well. One of the most notable is the Nolan Ryan/Gregg Olson blank back error, where Ryan’s front is paired with Olson’s blank reverse. Just a handful are known to exist and in 1999, a PSA 8.5 copy sold for an incredible $6,600. Other less scarce errors featuring missing or incorrect text can still fetch $50+ depending on the players and condition. Error cards are always a favorite for advanced collectors chasing true one-of-a-kind pieces.

While it lacks true “monster” rookies, the 1990 Fleer baseball set deserves a closer look from both budget-minded beginners and experienced collectors. Stars like Griffey, Alomar and the overlooked Caminiti rookie make it a fun set to build. And undiscovered gems like the Witt or potentially valuable errors add unpredictability. For around a $100 investment, you could assemble a complete set with plenty of upside. Just take care to aim for the crispest copies you can find of the key cards discussed to maximize returns further down the road. With patience and a bit of luck, the 1990 Fleer may yield some pleasant surprises for savvy collectors.

1990 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE LIST

Leave a reply

The 1990 Topps baseball card set was released at the start of the new decade marking the beginning of the 1990s. The set contained 792 total cards including 660 base cards and 132 parallel/specialty inserts. Some of the biggest player names featured included Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Cal Ripken Jr., Ozzie Smith and Jose Canseco. The diverse card designs and player selection along with nostalgia has kept the 1990 Topps set as one of the more popular vintage issues. Let’s take a closer look at some key cards from the set and get a sense of what they might be worth today according to PSA graded population data and recent eBay sales comps.

Perhaps the crown jewel card of the 1990 Topps set is the star rookie card of Ken Griffey Jr. who was already showing signs of becoming one of the game’s all-time greats in only his second MLB season. PSA 10 examples of the Griffey Jr. rookie have recently sold for as much as $7,000 depending on bidding wars. Most ungraded copies in near mint to mint condition would sell in the $300-500 range. The card remains highly sought after by collectors due to Griffey’s legendary career and status as a fan favorite player.

Another highly valuable rookie from the 1990 set is the Frank Thomas issue. Like Griffey, Thomas went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie still holds significance for White Sox fans and collectors today. PSA 10 Frank Thomas rookies have sold for over $1,000 in recent years while near mint, ungraded copies usually sell in the $150-250 range on the secondary market.

Moving beyond the rookie cards, power hitters tend to command strong prices from the ’90 Topps set as well. For example, Jose Canseco cards that receive a PSA 10 grade have sold for $500-700. Near mint, ungraded versions still fetch $50-100. Likewise, Nolan Ryan cards, still an active pitcher in 1990 and holding numerous career records, have brought in $300-500 for PSA 10s and $75-150 for ungraded near mint copies.

Other star players with cards maintaining value include Cal Ripken Jr. who was building his legendary consecutive games played streak in 1990. PSA 10 Ripken rookies have reached $400-600 in recent years. Ungraded near mint copies can be found for $75-150. Ripken held iconic status as perhaps the hardest working player in MLB for over a decade which translates to enduring collector demand for his vintage cardboard.

Beyond individual star players, there are also a few insert parallel subsets from the 1990 issue that catch premium prices. For instance, the “Record Breaker” parallel cards highlighting career milestones all carry mint value ranging from $50-150 for halls of famers like Nolan Ryan up to $200-300 for the rare “500 HR” Ken Griffey Jr. parallel. The gold embossed “Expo” parallel insert featuring new Expos signings like Dennis Martinez also command $75-150 prices.

Coming in around the $20-50 range are near mint copies of highlights like Ozzie Smith’s career defensive stats card, Wade Boggs’ AL batting title recognitions, or Darryl Strawberry’s power numbers. These flashy achievements and all-star caliber talents produced desirable collector pieces even beyond the rookie cards in 1990 Topps.

Moving deeper into the base set, there are still solid mid-tier prices to be found for true vintage aficionados. Hall of fame pitchers like Jim Palmer and Don Sutton range $15-35 depending on condition for their ’90 issue cards. Likewise, fan favorites from the era like Kirby Puckett, Tim Raines, Andre Dawson carry $10-25 price tags. Solid everyday players from the set period like Willie Randolph, Randy Myers and Rob Dibble round out the $5-15 market level.

The diverse card designs and memorable players encapsulated during baseball’s transition into the 1990s has allowed the 1990 Topps set to stand the test of time. While the superstar rookies and parallels hold the highest resale prices, there remains a robust collecting community to support values throughout the entire 792 card checklist. For researchers of the early ’90s baseball era or investors chasing the nostalgia, this vintage Topps issue remains a pivotal part of the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS MARYLAND

Leave a reply

The history of baseball cards in Maryland dates back over 100 years when the earliest baseball cards first started appearing in the late 1800s. Some of the earliest cards depicting Maryland baseball players included those from the legendary Baltimore Orioles teams that dominated in the early decades of professional baseball.

Some key events and aspects of baseball cards in Maryland include:

The earliest baseball cards started appearing nationally in the late 1880s from companies like Goodwin & Company and Old Judge tobacco cards. One of the earliest known cards depicting a Maryland player is an 1887-1890 Goodwin & Company card showing Baltimore Orioles player John McGraw.

In the early 1900s, many tobacco companies like American Tobacco, Peerless, and Sweet Caporal started inserting baseball cards in their cigarette and tobacco packs. This helped popularize collecting cards and increased their production. Many of the top players from the dominant Baltimore Orioles teams of this era received cards.

In 1909, the Baltimore Orioles won the World Series, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates. Key players on this team like Nap Lajoie, Eddie Collins, and Babe Ruth all received numerous baseball cards in sets from that era, increasing interest in cards among Maryland fans. Babe Ruth got his first baseball card in 1914.

In the 1920s and 30s, the rise of gum and candy companies like Goudey and Play Ball starting regularly producing high quality, colorful baseball cards. These included many stars from the Baltimore Orioles and International League teams based in Maryland. Hall of Famers like Lefty Grove and Jimmie Foxx got some of their earliest prominent cards.

In the 1930s-1950s, the peak of baseball card production coincided with the rise of the minor league Baltimore Orioles in the International League and later the arrival of the modern Orioles franchise in 1954. Many homegrown Maryland stars received widespread distribution in sets.

Iconic Maryland players who were featured prominently in many 1950s-60s sets included Brooks Robinson, Jim Palmer, Boog Powell, and Frank Robinson of the Baltimore Orioles. Their rise to stardom paralleled renewed interest in collecting cards nationally.

In the late 1950s, Topps gained a monopoly on baseball cards and produced the first widely collected modern cards. Their design and production quality set the standard that remains today. Many stars of the dominant 1960s Baltimore Orioles “Oriole Magic” teams like Palmer, Powell and Robinson got legendary cards.

In the 1970s-80s, other companies like Fleer and Donruss challenged Topps and produced innovative parallel sets. This increased availability of cards of Baltimore Orioles stars like Eddie Murray, Cal Ripken Jr., and Mike Boddicker who all rose to stardom and received many popular cards.

The boom in collecting interest in the late 1980s-1990s saw the rise of the hobby’s modern era. Insert cards, autographs and memorabilia paralleled the success of the Baltimore Orioles and stars like Ripken, whose record-breaking 1995 card is one of the most iconic in the hobby.

Today, Maryland has a vibrant baseball card collecting community. Local card shows attract collectors pursuing stars current and past from the Baltimore Orioles like Manny Machado, Trey Mancini and Jonathan Schoop. Vintage Orioles stars remain some of the most popular cards for collectors in the region.

Over 100 years of baseball cards chronicle the rich history of baseball in Maryland from the early 20th century dominance of the Baltimore Orioles to modern stars of the current Orioles. The cards provide a visual timeline of the players and teams that have brought so much excitement to Maryland baseball fans for generations.

BASEBALL CARDS BIRTHDAY PARTY

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved collectible and source of nostalgia for generations. For many kids who grew up in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, spending summer afternoons trading and sorting through baseball cards was a rite of passage. Today, baseball cards remain popular with both children and adults alike who enjoy the hobby of collecting. Whether you’re looking for a fun theme that will appeal to both boys and girls or want to incorporate something your child is passionate about, a baseball cards themed birthday party can be a big hit.

When planning a baseball cards party, the first step is deciding on a budget. Baseball card themed goodie bags, decorations, activities and food can all add up. Shop sales, make your own decorations, and get creative with repurposed items to keep costs low. You’ll want to have the basics covered – paper goods like plates, cups, napkins in baseball colors and designs. Consider stringing baseballs, bats, baseball cards or pennants as garland around the party area. Inflate baseballs to use as balloons tied with ribbon. Customize a baseball theme birthday banner to display.

For food, classic ballpark fare like hot dogs, chips, and popcorn are always a hit. Get creative with baseball inspired snacks like “home run” brownies cut into squares, “baseball” cupcakes topped with icing and candy sprinkles in a baseball pattern, or “base” trail mix in a baseball dugout theme container. Set up a baseball themed photo booth area with props like jerseys, hats, bats and balls for pictures. Offer a baseball card scavenger hunt where clues lead to hidden packs of cards around the party venue as a fun activity.

The main event of any birthday party is opening presents. For a baseball cards theme, gifts wrapped in sports sections of newspapers or aluminum foil to resemble baseball cards are fun. Fill goodie bags with small toys, candy, gum or packs of baseball cards as favors for each guest to take home. Have a baseball trivia game or skills contest like running bases, batting or throwing accuracy for prizes. Display your child’s baseball card collection or create a shadowbox frame with their favorite players as a centerpiece. Play ballpark music and classic baseball movies in the background.

For the cake, consider ballpark inspired designs like a three tier cake resembling stacked bases or home plate. Frost it white and use red, blue and green candy sprinkles in patterns to resemble a baseball field. Top it with baseball figurines or a number candle shaped like a jersey in your child’s favorite player’s number. Serve slices on small paper plates designed like baseball cards.

As for party favors, packs of baseball cards for each guest to take home are always a hit. Make custom baseball card favors by printing photos of each child attending on trading card stock paper. Include stats like name, age, favorite team or player. Laminate them or place in plastic sleeves as keepsakes. Fill goodie bags with small toys, candy or gum in addition to the baseball card favor.

To really get into the baseball spirit of the party, set up some interactive games for guests. Create a makeshift baseball diamond in your yard or party space using painter’s tape, cones or chalk. Have a batting cage set up to hit balls off a tee or soft toss. Set up bases and take turns playing baseball. Give out fun prizes for best batting average, most home runs or steals. Have a bubblegum card breaking station where kids can trade and sort through packs of cards together. Set up a pinata in the shape of a baseball for a piñata party game.

End the party on a high note with a grand finale. Have a bubble machine going while playing players walk-up music. Do a ceremonial first pitch with the birthday child and have all guests cheer. Pass out team hats or sunglasses as party favors on the way out. Send guests home with goodie bags filled with small toys, candy and packs of baseball cards. With the right baseball themed food, decorations, activities and games, your child is sure to love celebrating their special day surrounded by the nostalgia and fun of America’s pastime. Focus on incorporating elements they find exciting about baseball to create lasting memories of their baseball cards birthday bash!

1969 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 130

Leave a reply

The 1969 Topps baseball card #130 features left-handed pitcher Tommy John of the Chicago White Sox. At the time the photo on the card was taken, John was 26 years old and in his seventh major league season, all spent with the White Sox up to that point. The card provides a nice snapshot of John’s career up until the 1969 season.

By 1969, John had already established himself as a steady, reliable starter in the White Sox rotation. While he had yet to achieve superstar status, he had proven himself a very capable big league hurler. Some of John’s career stats up to the 1969 season included a 68-52 record, 86 games started, 17 complete games, 4 shutouts, 6 saves, and an ERA of 3.23 over 995 innings pitched. He had twice won 10 or more games in a season.

The 1968 season in particular had been one of John’s best. He went 16-9 that year with a career-low 2.40 ERA over 248.1 innings pitched. He made the American League All-Star team for the only time in his career and finished 10th in AL MVP voting, as the White Sox contended for the pennant before ultimately finishing third. Entering 1969, John was hitting his baseball prime and remained an integral part of the White Sox staff.

The 1969 season would see John compile a respectable 14-11 record to go along with 169 strikeouts and a 3.24 ERA over 257.2 innings in 31 starts. The White Sox finished the year in 8th place in the 10-team AL with a 72-90 record, dropping out of contention after their solid 1968 campaign. Still, at just 27 years old, John appeared poised to continue contributing quality starts for ChiSox rotations for several seasons to come.

Little did anyone know at the time the 1969 Topps card was produced, but John was on the verge of an astonishing late-career resurgence that would completely alter the trajectory of his playing days and pitch him into the Baseball Hall of Fame conversation. In 1974 at age 31 and with the White Sox, John suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow that required pioneering “Tommy John surgery,” involving a tendon from his wrist being used to replace the torn UCL.

Against all expectations, John successfully returned to the majors in 1976 after rehabbing from the grueling surgery and procedure. He would go on to pitch professionally for an astounding 26 seasons, playing until age 46 with 8 different teams. Incredibly, after the surgery John posted a record of 164-121 with a solid 3.34 ERA over 2,552.2 innings pitched in 15 seasons from 1976-1989 – far better stats than his pre-surgery career.

The surgery that bears his name saved John’s career and allowed him to enjoy unprecedented success well into his late 30s and early 40s. He went on to win 20 games for the LA Dodgers in 1977 at age 34 and tossed his 3000th career strikeout in 1982 at 40 years old. When he retired in 1989 with the California Angels, John had racked up 288 wins, 4 All-Star selections, and was regarded as perhaps the greatest medical sports comeback story of all time. His durability and longevity were groundbreaking for a pitcher.

While they couldn’t possibly have predicted it at the time, the1969 Topps card #130 featuring Tommy John now serves as a reminder of the dazzling second act that was still ahead. The card captured John early in a career that ultimately lasted over two decades thanks to an operation he boldly volunteered for. John’s post-surgery stats more than doubled his pre-operation numbers, and he became one of baseball’s most consistent workhorses through age 40. Few player stories showcase the triumph of the human spirit over adversity quite like that of Tommy John. His legacy lives on not just through over 50,000 Tommy John surgeries performed, but as an inspiration for athletes everywhere to never give up hope in the face of serious injury obstacles.