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BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1919 21 W514

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Baseball cards from the 1910s and early 1920s are some of the most sought after and valuable cards in the hobby. The T206 and E90 sets from 1909-11 are considered the pinnacle, but the W514 issues from 1919-1921 also hold significant historical importance and collectability. Let’s take a deeper look at the W514 set and how to value these century old cardboard treasures.

The W514 set was produced from 1919-1921 by the American Caramel Company as promotional inserts in caramel candy packs. Like most early 20th century baseball cards, they were not considered collectibles at the time and were simply thrown away by most after being redeemed. The set featured 160 total cards over the 3 year run, with each year containing a different subset of 80 players. Some of the biggest stars of the deadball era are featured, including Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and Grover Cleveland Alexander.

Condition is extremely important when evaluating the value of these fragile 100+ year old cards. Even the lowest graded W514 cards still command thousands due to their rarity, historical significance, and the fact that they are some of the earliest baseball cards featuring future Hall of Famers. The highest prices are reserved for examples that have survived in remarkably well-preserved condition given their extreme age. Top grades of PSA NM-MT 8 or SGC Gem Mint 10 can fetch five figures or more for the most desirable subjects.

Let’s take a closer look at some key players and valuation guides for top W514 cards in various states of preservation:

Babe Ruth (1919):

PSA 3 (Poor): $3,000-$5,000
PSA 5 (Very Good): $7,000-$12,000
PSA 8 (Gem Mint): $25,000-$40,000
SGC 10 (Gem Mint): $50,000+

The Babe Ruth is the crown jewel of the set due to his legendary status. Even low-grade examples command significant money due to his unmatched popularity. Mint condition specimens are true trophies for any collection.

Ty Cobb (1920):

PSA 3: $1,500-$2,500
PSA 5: $3,500-$6,000
PSA 8: $12,000-$18,000
SGC 10: $25,000+

As arguably the greatest player of the deadball era, Cobb cards retain excellent value across all conditions. Mint examples are especially tough to come by and priced accordingly.

Walter Johnson (1921):

PSA 3: $1,000-$2,000
PSA 5: $2,500-$4,500
PSA 8: $8,000-$12,000
SGC 10: $15,000+

The Big Train’s intimidating presence and Hall of Fame stats still resonate today. Condition is still king, with the finest specimens reserved for only the most elite collections.

Grover Cleveland Alexander (1919):

PSA 3: $800-$1,500
PSA 5: $1,500-$3,000
PSA 8: $5,000-$8,000
SGC 10: $10,000+

Alexander put together a Hall of Fame career and his W514 card remains a strong, affordable option for collectors. Condition makes a big difference in value as always.

The W514 set remains one of the most historically significant issues in the entire hobby due to its early production date and Hall of Fame subjects. Even low-grade examples retain value due to their rarity, antiquity, and representation of the deadball era. The finest conditioned gems are true trophies that can anchor any collection. Condition is absolutely critical to valuation at this level. With care and research, W514 cards continue to be a compelling area for vintage baseball enthusiasts.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1919 23 W572

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Introduction

This article will provide an in-depth look at the price guide for baseball cards from the years 1919 to 1923, with a specific focus on the highly sought after “W572” series from that era. Baseball cards from the early 20th century are extremely valuable collectibles today due to their rarity, condition and historical significance. The cards produced between 1919-1923 hold a special place in the hobby as some of the earliest modern issues. Within that series, the 1922-1923 cards designated as “W572” have become some of the most coveted and expensive in the entire collecting realm. Here is a detailed exploration of values, condition factors, and what makes these particular vintage cards so desirable.

1919-1920 Issues

Some of the earliest baseball cards readily available to collectors hail from 1919 and 1920. These issues were produced by the American Caramel Company and featured single players on small rectangular cards included in caramel and gum packages. Production numbers were relatively low during this early period. For 1919 and 1920 issues in worn but intact condition, common players can usually be acquired for $50-150. More sought after stars from that era in similar condition may fetch $200-500. Top rookies and Hall of Famers could command $1,000-3,000 depending on the name and overall appeal of the card. Condition is absolutely critical, as even minor creases, stains or rounding can drop a value significantly. Near mint or better examples from 1919-1920 in top-graded gem condition have been known to break the $10,000 mark for particularly important subjects.

1921 Issues

In 1921, the production and distribution of baseball cards expanded as multiple companies entered the market. Some of the most prolific included American Caramel, Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, and Old Mill Cigarettes. Card designs became more standardized during this period as well. For common 1921 issues in average worn condition, values typically range between $75-250 depending on the player featured. Stars of the day in similar condition may sell in the $300-800 range. Rookies and future Hall of Famers that debuted their cards in 1921 can often command $1,000-5,000 when grading out at the lowest mint levels. The highest mint, gem specimens from 1921 have been auctioned for astronomical sums. A PSA/DNA 10 graded example of Babe Ruth’s famously scarce 1921 debut card sold for over $5.2 million in 2016, setting records.

1922-1923 “W572” Series

It is the 1922-1923 series designated as “W572” that is undoubtedly the most prized by collectors of early 20th century baseball cards. These issues were produced by the American Caramel Company and featured single large size player portraits on thin cardstock with vibrant color illustrations. The exact production numbers are unknown, but they are considered among the rarest and most scarce early cards surviving today due to the fragile nature of the stock and lack of proper long-term storage in the 1920s. For a common 1922-1923 W572 card in average worn condition, prices will usually start around $1,000 and can climb higher depending on demand. Stars and key rookie cards from the set in similar condition may sell in the $3,000-$10,000 range. It is mint and gem quality examples that truly command top dollar. A PSA/DNA 8 graded Babe Ruth W572 recently sold at auction for an astounding $1.26 million, setting the record for highest price achieved for a single baseball card. Other mint W572 Hall of Famers have also crossed the million-dollar threshold in recent years. The sheer rarity and historical significance of these issues makes them the most prized possessions for dedicated collectors of pre-war baseball memorabilia.

Condition & Grading

As mentioned throughout, condition is absolutely paramount when it comes to determining value for any early 20th century baseball card, and especially the ultra-rare 1922-1923 W572 series. Even minor flaws can dramatically impact price. For ungraded common examples, condition assessment is largely subjective. But for high-end valuable specimens, professional third-party grading is essential to establish an objective standard. The two leading services are PSA and BGS. On their numeric 1-10 scales, 7 is considered “very fine” with only slight flaws, 8 is near mint with just a few minor blemishes, 9 is “mint” with only the most well-centered and flawless surviving, and 10 is “gem mint” – the absolute pinnacle a card can achieve in preserved excellence. Even a single point difference on the PSA/BGS scales can mean a variance of tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands in value. Proper mounting and protection is also important to maintain condition over the long haul for invested collectors.

Investment Potential

It is clear that early 20th century baseball cards, and the ultra-rare 1922-1923 W572 issues specifically, have proven to be sound long-term investments for discerning collectors. Values have steadily climbed for decades and show no signs of slowing. As the collecting population expands worldwide and generations pass away, fewer high-grade specimens are likely to remain in existence over time. This supply and demand dynamic will assuredly continue pushing prices higher, especially for the most coveted rookie cards, stars and Hall of Fame inductees featured. With the right cards in pristine condition, annual appreciation rates of 5-10% are reasonable to expect long-term. For the true “condition census” elite examples, skyrocketing auction results set new benchmarks seemingly every year. With such a finite supply and enduring demand, these vintage cards represent blue-chip holdings for the financially-motivated collector.

Conclusion

The baseball cards produced between 1919-1923, and most especially the 1922-1923 “W572” series, are among the most important, desirable and valuable collectibles from the early era of the hobby. Their rarity, historical significance, and proven record of strong long-term price increases cement them as premier targets for dedicated vintage card investors. Condition, as always, is paramount – with true high-grade gems achieving record-setting prices reflective of their immense scarcity and investment-quality status. For collectors seeking to add an important piece of baseball and collecting history to their portfolios, a pristine example from this seminal period can offer tangible returns alongside intangible enjoyment for generations to come.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1919 23 W552

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Introduction

This article provides an in-depth price guide for baseball cards from the years 1919 through 1923, with a focus on the iconic T206 White Border set from 1909-11. Commonly referred to as the “W552” set within the hobby, the T206 set featured future Hall of Famers like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and Christy Mathewson. These vintage cards remain highly collectible and valuable over a century after their original release. Understanding the rarity, condition, and demand for different players within the set can help collectors properly value and price individual cards.

The Early Years of Baseball Cards (1876-1909)

The earliest baseball cards date back to the late 1870s but did not become widely produced and collected until the late 1880s through the early 1900s. Brands like Allen & Ginter, Old Judge, and Leaf released some of the first major baseball card sets during this time period. Production and availability of these early sets was limited. The most notable and valuable pre-1909 issues include the 1887-90 Goodwin Champions set, featuring future Hall of Famers like Cap Anson and Pud Galvin. High grade examples of stars from this era can reach five figures or more.

The T206 Era (1909-11)

The landmark T206 set completely changed the baseball card hobby. Produced between 1909-11 by the American Tobacco Company, the cards featured photographs of players on a white border background. Over 500 different players are included across the three series, ranging from superstars to obscure minor leaguers. The massive production and distribution led to the T206 set being one of the most collected in history. Even in low grades, common players can still hold value due to their historical significance. The biggest stars have reached astronomical prices. A PSA/SGC Gem Mint 10 example of the ultra-rare 1909-11 Honus Wagner recently sold for over $6.6 million, setting a new record. Other consistent seven-figure cards include rare variations and the highest graded examples of stars like Mathewson, Johnson, Cobb, and Nap Lajoie.

Post-T206 Era (1912-23)

In the years immediately following the T206 release, card production declined significantly. The most notable issues include the 1912 and 1914 Bobby Wallace “Diamond Stars” cards produced by Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. High-end examples of stars like Joe Jackson can reach $20,000+. Conditions were scarce and demand was still relatively low at this point. Things changed dramatically with the release of the iconic 1914 Cracker Jack set, which helped spark renewed interest in collecting. This led tobacco companies to resume large-scale baseball card production.

The 1919-23 “Deadball Era”

During this period, several tobacco brands released sets that remain highly collectible today. Production levels were much higher compared to the previous decade, though still lower than the golden era T206s. The most significant issues include:

1919-20 M101-5 Green Backs (American Caramel): This early 20th century caramel/candy brand featured true “green backs.” High-grade examples of Babe Ruth have topped $100,000.

1920 W516 Old Mill (Sweet Caporal): Features stars like Ty Cobb and Eddie Collins. Keys include rare variations and high grades of top players.

1920 W515 M101-7 Gold Borders (American Caramel): Similar design to the Green Backs but with gold borders. Ruth cards also highly valuable here.

1922 W514 White Border (Sweet Caporal): Features many of the same players as W516. High grades of superstars can reach $5,000-10,000+.

1922-23 W523 Diamond Stars (Sweet Caporal): The final significant tobacco era release before the modern Goudey/Play Ball era. High grades of top players remain quite valuable.

The Holy Grail: W552 White Border (M101-3)

Released between 1919-23 by American Caramel, the M101-3 White Border set, more commonly referred to by the industry standard W552 catalog number, is considered the crown jewel of Deadball Era issues outside the ultra-rare T206s. Like the T206s, they featured true vintage photographs in white borders but with a smaller card size. The massive player selection included over 700 subjects, from all-time greats to complete unknowns. The W552 set holds tremendous significance as one of the final large tobacco card productions before the Goudey/Play Ball modern era began. Condition is everything for W552 value, and pristine gems are rarely seen. Some key premium examples include:

Babe Ruth (PSA/SGC 9): $15,000-25,000.

Ty Cobb (PSA/SGC 8): $10,000-15,000.

Walter Johnson (PSA/SGC 7): $7,500-10,000.

Christy Mathewson (PSA/SGC 8): $6,000-8,000.

Tris Speaker (PSA/SGC 8): $5,000-7,000.

Home Run Baker (PSA/SGC 8): $3,000-5,000.

Edd Roush (PSA/SGC 8): $2,000-3,000.

Heinie Groh (PSA/SGC 8): $1,500-2,500.

Eddie Ainsmith (PSA/SGC 8): $1,000-1,500.

Earl Sheely (PSA/SGC 8): $500-1,000.

Conclusion

The 1919-23 baseball card releases remain highly collectible options for vintage card enthusiasts, especially high grade W552 White Border gems. Understanding the scarcity and demand for different players is crucial when properly valuing individual cards from this Deadball Era. While they do not command T206 prices, the finest examples of stars from the period can still reach the thousands or low five-figures. With rarity and condition being so vital, using third-party grading is recommended when buying or selling premium W552 cards.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1919

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Baseball cards exploded in popularity in the late 19th century as cigarette companies began including them in their products as promotional incentives. Perhaps no decade saw the growth of baseball cards quite like the 1910s. By 1919, the hobby had truly taken off. The cards from this early era are now over 100 years old, making them highly sought after collectibles. Let’s take a look at what a baseball cards price guide might have looked like for the year 1919.

The most valuable and sought after cards from 1919 would have been those featuring the biggest stars of that time period. Babe Ruth would have been entering his prime with the Boston Red Sox in 1919 and his cards would have already been gaining value. A 1919 Babe Ruth Sporting News card in near mint condition could have fetched around $5, though one in poorer condition may have gone for $2-3. For context, $5 in 1919 would be around $75 in today’s dollars, showing how early Ruth cards were already establishing premium value.

Another superstar who would have had highly valuable 1919 cards is Ty Cobb. Arguably the best player of the deadball era, Cobb won the American League batting title in 1919 with a .384 average. A 1919 Cobb card in near mint condition may have sold for around $4-5, only slightly less than a top Ruth card from the same year. Cobb’s ferocious style of play and unmatched hitting prowess made him one of the first true baseball superstars and his early cards reflect that status.

In addition to Ruth and Cobb, other top players who would be highly sought after in a 1919 price guide include Tris Speaker, Eddie Collins, Home Run Baker, and Walter Johnson. Speaker cards could have gone for $3-4, Collins around $2.50, Baker $2-3, and Johnson $2. These were the biggest offensive and pitching stars of the American League in 1919 and their cards would have held premium collector value even then. In the National League, cards of Grover Cleveland Alexander, Rogers Hornsby, and Casey Stengel may have ranged from $1.50 to $2.50 based on condition and scarcity.

Beyond just the star players, complete team sets from 1919 held value for completionists even back then. A full 25-card 1919 Cincinnati Reds set may have sold for around $15-20, while a complete Boston Red Sox or Chicago White Sox team set could have gone for $12-18. Even less heralded teams like the Philadelphia Athletics or Washington Senators may have had their full 1919 sets priced at $8-12. For dedicated fans and collectors seeking to finish their album, full team sets provided a rewarding challenge even in the early days of the hobby.

In terms of product, the most desirable issues in 1919 would have been the higher end tobacco cards. Cards produced by manufacturer Allen & Ginter held premium value due to their quality stock and vivid color illustrations. A complete 100-card Allen & Ginter Tobacco set from 1909-11 could have fetched $40-50 in 1919. Other top tobacco issues included cards from manufacturers like T206, T205, and Sweet Caporal. Complete tobacco sets from those companies may have ranged between $20-40 depending on condition and scarcity of certain players.

Beyond tobacco issues, regional baseball cards inserted in products like Bread, Gum, Candy, and Cracker Jack also had followings and collector value. Complete sets of regional issues like 1909-11 Philadelphia Caramel, 1911-12 Hassan Portland, or 1911-12 Peanuts held values of $10-25 based on scarcity. Individual standout stars from regional issues could also command $1-3 depending on the player.

In terms of general condition guidelines that would have factored into 1919 pricing, near mint (NM) cards represented the highest value with sharp images and no creasing. Very fine (VF) cards with minor edge wear were valued at 80-90% of NM. Fine (F) condition with light creasing may have been 60-75% of NM. Poor (P) cards with heavy wear were often valued at just 25-50% of a NM copy depending on the star power of the player featured.

A 1919 baseball cards price guide would have established premium values for the superstars of that era like Ruth, Cobb, Speaker, and Johnson. Sought after tobacco issues from Allen & Ginter and T206 held top dollar. Regional issues and complete team and manufacturer sets provided affordable collecting options. Condition was critical, with near mint copies commanding full collector value. While the prices may seem low by today’s standards, the early collecting landscape was established. This price guide provides a fascinating look into the early collecting values that helped shaped the modern baseball card industry.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1919 22 W516

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Introduction
The 1919-1922 W516 series of baseball cards produced by the American Caramel company are some of the most iconic and valuable issues in the entire sport. Spanning the years immediately following World War 1, these cards captured some of the game’s biggest stars of the era including Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Walter Johnson. While production and distribution of the cards was limited compared to modern issues, their nostalgic images and connection to the early 20th century evolution of baseball have cemented their place in collectible card history. This in-depth price guide will examine details of the W516 series, provide background on the included players and teams, and establish valuation estimates for the highest graded specimens based on sales data and market trends.

The W516 Series Overview
The W516 cards were inserted as prizes in caramel products manufactured by the American Caramel Company of Fort Madison, Iowa between 1919-1922. A total of 524 individual cards were produced over the four year run, featuring mostly players but also some managers and umpires. The cards measured approximately 2.5 x 3 inches and were printed on thin paper stock with images on the front and backs that usually included a short biography. Distribution was limited to areas where the caramel products were sold, so the cards had a relatively small regional footprint compared to modern national releases. This scarcity combined with the nostalgia for the early 20th century “Deadball Era” of baseball have made high grade W516 examples some of the most valuable vintage sports cards.

Babe Ruth Dominates the 1919 Issue
The 33 card 1919 issue is headlined by Babe Ruth in the very early stages of his legendary career with the Boston Red Sox. At this point, Ruth was still primarily a pitcher but his prowess as a slugger was beginning to emerge. His card ranks among the most iconic and valuable in baseball card history. Other notables from 1919 include Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner, and Walter Johnson. Top graded PSA/BGS specimens of Ruth’s 1919 card in Gem Mint 10 condition have sold for over $2 million, reflecting his enduring popularity nearly 100 years later. Other key stars from 1919 like Cobb and Wagner in top-grades can reach $100,000-200,000 at auction.

Ruth’s Fame Explodes in 1920
The 1920 W516 issue expanded to 52 cards to keep up with Ruth’s meteoric rise. That season, he led the American League with 54 home runs in his first full year as an outfielder, revolutionizing the game and establishing himself as the premier power hitter of the era. His 1920 card is the most significant of the entire W516 run and consistently achieves record prices. A PSA 10 sold for $5.2 million in 2016, still the all-time record for a single sports card. Other mint examples have exceeded $3 million as well. This issue also features Hall of Famers like Cobb, Tris Speaker, and Eddie Collins. Top graded versions of their cards can reach $50,000-100,000.

Post-WW1 Stars in 1921 and 1922
The 1921 and 1922 W516 issues each contained 52 cards continuing to highlight the top players after World War 1. The 1921 set is headlined by Ruth with the New York Yankees after his record-breaking trade from Boston, as well as Hall of Famers like Cobb, Speaker, and George Sisler. PSA/BGS 10 examples of Ruth from 1921 have sold for over $1 million. The 1922 issue covers Ruth’s 57 home run season and the debut of several future Hall of Famers like Rogers Hornsby. While not achieving the record prices of the 1920 Ruth, gems of these later issues for star players can still reach $50,000-150,000 based on recent auction results. The scarcity and condition of these early 20th century cards will likely keep values elevated for prestigious high-grade specimens going forward.

Condition is King for W516 Valuation
As with any collectible, the all-important factor in W516 card prices is the grade assigned by leading third-party authentication and grading services like PSA and BGS. Even minor flaws or imperfections can significantly decrease value. For the highest valued stars across the 1919-1922 issues, only PSA/BGS Mint 10 or Gem Mint specimens will command top dollar approaching $1 million or more for the right cards. Graded 9s fall into the $50,000-500,000 range depending on the player, while 8s and below lose substantial value. It’s also important to note that population reports from PSA/BGS show only a tiny fraction of existing W516 cards achieve true gem grades due to the fragile thin paper stock after 100 years. This scarcity maintains strong collector demand.

In Conclusion
The American Caramel W516 baseball cards from 1919-1922 offer a unique window into the early 20th century game and some of its most legendary stars. Headlined by Babe Ruth’s iconic rise, these issues hold a hallowed place in collectibles history. For patient investors and advanced collectors, high-grade specimens authenticated and graded by the leading services present an opportunity for tremendous long-term appreciation based on their rarity, historical significance, and enduring nostalgic appeal to baseball fans worldwide. With condition being paramount, W516 cards in pristine PSA/BGS Mint or Gem condition for the top players will likely continue setting record prices for years to come.