Tag Archives: 1959

1959 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set was the eighth series of baseball cards produced by Topps and featured all players in the major leagues at the time. What makes the 1959 set particularly unique and valuable is the fact that it was the first and only time Topps produced and distributed a true “complete set” that contained player cards for every single player on a major league roster in that given season.

After the success of their first baseball card series in 1951, Topps began standardizing sets to include most or all players from that year. There were always players missing for one reason or another. This was usually because Topps was unable to acquire rights to some players’ images or signatures. So while sets came close, there was never a true complete representation of every player until 1959 rolled around.

The 1959 Topps set contains an impressive 612 total cards. This included player cards, manager cards, league leader statistical recap cards, and team cards highlighting the American and National League pennants from the 1958 season. Every player that suited up for even a single Major League game in 1959 is featured in the set. This included future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax all the way down to seldom used bench players and pitching staff depth pieces.

What made the accomplishment of a true complete set even more impressive was the fact that 1959 featured the largest major league rosters in baseball history up to that point. With the addition of a new franchise in Los Angeles, each team carried at least 25-man active rosters plus additional players in the minors that were called up throughout the season. This meant well over 800 total players were in the two major leagues that year between the regular 25-man rosters and additional players who saw brief stints in the majors. For Topps to secure rights and photos for every single one is nothing short of amazing even by today’s standards.

Beyond just the completeness of the roster, the 1959 Topps set also offered fans some iconic designs and photographic techniques that added desirability and nostalgia. Most notably, the set utilized a horizontal card format as opposed to the more traditional vertical style. This allowed for larger action shots and headshots to take up more real estate on the card front. Background colors and designs also varied across teams to help them stand out. Photo quality was also generally considered an upgrade from prior years with many crisp action shots capturing the players in mid-swing or throw.

The rarity and demand for a true complete set naturally drives the 1959 Topps to heights of value unmatched in the original vintage era. In top graded condition with the scarcity of investment-grade examples remaining, a 1959 Topps complete base set can sell for well into the six-figure range today. Even common examples still sealed in the original wax paper wrapping can bring $10,000 or more. Certain key rookies and stars boast individual card values up to $50,000 depending on grade. Condition is critically important since the fragile cardboard stock shows signs of aging over 60+ years.

While the 1959 Topps set started out as a mere 35 cents per pack at the local drugstore or corner store, it has grown to take on near-mythic status amongst collectors today. Not only was it the first complete representation of major leaguers of that season, it also captured the unique roster dynamics during a transitional pennant chase. Scarcity drives the monetary worth, but nostalgia ensures the 1959 Topps baseball cards remain a symbol of the vintage card collecting hobby’s roots and the ever-increasing demand for authenticated pieces of baseball history. A complete mint example is beyond the budget of most collectors, but the 1959 Topps set will always be considered the “Holy Grail” for those pursuing vintage investments and a true piece of the original atomic era of Topps baseball cards.

1959 BAZOOKA BASEBALL CARDS

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In 1959, Topps released its annual baseball card set featuring players from that season. These cards were unlike any other released before – they came packed in small wax wrappers alongside gum, launching the era of ” Bazooka ” baseball cards.

The idea to package cards with gum came from Topps co-founder Sy Berger. Seeing how popular bubble gum was with kids, he realized including a stick with each pack would make the cards even more enticing. This was a breakthrough marketing tactic that took the hobby from just a card collecting fad to widespread popularity among children.

With the gum addition, Topps released its 1959 set in small blue wax wrappers branded with the iconic “Bazooka” name. Each pack contained 2 or 3 baseball cards and a square of Bazooka bubble gum. While the regular cards were the standard size and design baseball fans had come to expect, these new packs turned the cards into a type of coveted candy or treat for kids. They became the highlight of many childhood summers.

Inside each wrapper was a chance to possibly land stars of the day like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax or a hometown hero. The cards featured colorful player photography on the front with stats and a write-up on the back. Topps employed some of the era’s top sports photographers like Hy Peskin to capture the players in action shots.

Because they were randomly inserted in gum packs, the 1959 Bazooka cards developed a mystique surrounding the hunt to complete a full or near-full set. Kids would swap, trade and share duplicates fervently on the playground. This communal aspect of building a collection further increased the cards’ popularity as a universally beloved childhood pastime.

Beyond the allure of gum and stars, Topps infused the 1959 issue with several innovative variants to add collecting intrigue. Among these were “red back” parallel versions of certain cards with a color change to the standard gray back. Other oddball inserts included manager cards, team checklists and even promotion cards for the Bazooka Joe comic strip featured on the gum wrappers.

For years, the standard 1959 Topps baseball design was the last released without player names on the front. Only the team logo and uniform number identified who was pictured. For kids, this led to hours spent poring over books to match faces with stats and properly attribute their cards. It made attaining that level of expertise in identifying every player extremely rewarding.

The famous “Airplane” Card featuring Willie Mays leaping for an over-the-shoulder catch is considered one of the most iconic baseball images of all time. Even casual collectors recognize the graceful silhouette depicted on card number 130 in the set. Beyond Mays’ athleticism, what made the shot so striking was its aerial viewpoint, something innovative for sports photography of the era.

As influential as any individual cards, the 1959 Topps set established firm traditions that carried forward yearly issues for decades. From the team-colored borders, to the focus on action photography, to the indelible player likenesses, these formative cards laid the groundwork for the long-standing hobby. They marked baseball cards’ transition from promotional novelties to beloved collectibles.

Over the subsequent years, Topps never abandoned the Bazooka branding or gum inclusion that proved so popular. As the 1960s progressed, changing tastes saw the cards move to larger, more traditional sizes separate from confections. Still, for a generation of Americans, the Bazooka name will forever conjure memories of summer afternoons chasing sets and trading on the playground with friends.

It’s hard to overstate the importance and impact of the 1959 Topps baseball set. As the first to be sold sealed inside Bazooka bubble gum packs, these innovative cards spread the hobby nationwide among children. They perfected a formula of on-card photography, variations, and collectibility that defined the golden age. Even today, over 60 years later, examples from the issue command premium prices due to their widespread popularity and status as pioneers in the field. The Bazooka era of Topps cards truly launched modern baseball collecting.

MOST VALUABLE 1959 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic of all time due to its simplicity and the caliber of future Hall of Famers that are featured. One of the hallmarks of the 1959 set is the large number of rookie cards of future stars that were issued. Many of these rookie cards have increased dramatically in value over the decades. Here are some of the most valuable 1959 baseball cards collectors seek:

The crown jewel of the 1959 set without question is the Hank Aaron rookie card. Only about 25-50 copies of Aaron’s rookie are believed to still exist in Near Mint to Mint condition. Every detail of the card is iconic from the simple white border, to the team name abbreviation “Mil” at the top right. One recently sold for over $1 million, making this one of the highest valued baseball cards ever. Understandably, very few are likely to ever sell given what it represents – one of the game’s all-time home run kings.

Another key rookie is the Harmon Killebrew card. Similar to Aaron, only a very small number are graded high. Though not quite as legendary as Aaron, Killebrew still put together a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Minnesota Twins. A NM+ example sold for around $350,000. Much like Aaron, the scarcity of high grade Killebrew rookies makes this a true condition-sensitive gem.

Among the most iconic of all pitcher rookies is the Sandy Koufax card. Though he did not emerge as a top pitcher until a few years later, any rookie of a future three-time Cy Young winner will have immense value. Examples in the $125,000-$250,000 range show the impact of Koufax’s eventual dominance. Copies in high grades are elusive. The simplicity of the design like all ’59s adds to its elegant beauty and historical context.

Another standout hitting rookie was future all-time hits king Pete Rose. While his overall legacy has been marred in recent history, Rose’s card has always retained strong appeal for collectors given his playing excellence and intangibles that made him a fan favorite. High quality examples can reach around $25,000-50,000, making this one quite affordable compared to other top rookies. The Rose card has continued to hold value based on stats alone unlike some other players with personal conduct issues that have impacted certain cards negatively.

Rookies of Earl Weaver, Don Drysdale, and Roger Maris also hold immense value given their on-field successes and Hall of Fame-caliber careers. A Weaver can reach $10,000 plus while a Drysdale about half that. Maris’ single season HR record in ’61 guaranteed his card’s place among the all-time great Yankees and is generally valued at $15,000-$30,000. Those looking to find a good buy on a historically important rookie would do well studying these alternatives to the ultra-six figure options.

Of course, beyond the massive number of rookie gems, other standout high grade 1959s across all levels of play and experience also carry impressive valuations today. A Mickey Mantle in true NM+ quality pushing $150,000 shows his stature and allure remains strong. High grade Ted Williams, Willie Mays, and second year Frank Robinson cards also surpass the $50,000 mark. For those who place high importance on autographs, a signed Mantle or Mays can approach $500,000 given their rarity and natural increase in desirability as a memorabilia card.

The 1959 Topps set showcased so many future all-time great players that nearly every desirable name holds significant collector interest today despite the simplicity of the design. For astute vintage collectors of means, adding an iconic rookie or two represents an excellent way to acquire a true piece of baseball history. But for most, simply appreciating the historic context and talents of the players highlighted make the 1959s an incredibly special set deserving of its legendary status in the hobby. Whether collecting for value or nostalgia, it remains one of the most cherished vintage releases.

1959 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PSA PRICE GUIDE

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues in the history of the hobby. With its simple yet iconic design, iconic rookie cards, and the cachet of being from the late 1950s, 1959 Topps cards hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. As grading and protection services like PSA have grown hugely popular over the past few decades, the PSA Price Guide has become the definitive source for determining estimated values for vintage cards in top graded gem mint condition. Here is an in-depth look at how PSA grades and values some of the key cards from the pioneering 1959 Topps set.

To start, it’s important to understand the PSA grading scale. PSA assigns cards a numerical grade from 1 to 10, with 10 being gem mint. A PSA 10 is a perfect card – centered, with bright crisp colors and impossible to flaw. Getting older cards to achieve this top grade is extremely difficult due to the aging process, so PSA 9 and PSA 8 gems are still considered highly valuable and desirable. The sheer numbers involved also impact demand – while a PSA 10 of a common player may only bring a few hundred dollars, the far rarer PSA 10 of a key rookie can sell for tens of thousands due to the extremely low population that attain the elite grade.

One of the true Holy Grails of the 1959 set is the rookie card of Hall of Famer Hank Aaron. Already a star by 1959 with 27 homers as a 21-year-old, Aaron would go on to smash Babe Ruth’s career home run record and cement his place as one of the game’s all-time greats. The Hank Aaron rookie in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition is arguably the most valuable post-war card, with prices well into the six figures depending on the auction. PSA 9 copies still bring north of $10,000 due to their sheer scarcity. Even PSA 8s can sell for $3,000-5,000 due to the card’s incredible legacy and iconic design featuring Aaron in a Milwaukee Braves road grey uniform. If obtaining any PSA 10 is a white whale, an Aaron rookie PSA 10 borders on unobtainium.

Another short printed superstar rookie from 1959 is Hall of Famer Pete Rose. By 1959, Rose had already made his major league debut at age 18 but was still early in his career with the Reds. The Rose rookie holds similar cachet to the Aaron and is highly valuable in top grades, with PSA 10s currently in the $40,000-$60,000 range and PSA 9s from $3,000-$7,000. Also notable is that Rose was the first rookie card eligible player to appear on a Topps wax box in 1959, adding to his cards already legendary status. Lower mint state grades like PSA 8 still bring $1,000+ due to his status as baseball’s all-time hits leader. Like the Aaron, finding a Rose PSA 10 in the wild is like searching for Bigfoot – virtually impossible.

While the Aaron and Rose rookie cards claim top billing, the 1959 Topps set has many other desirable and valuable star rookies in addition to defining iconic images of established legends. The rookie of Hall of Fame Yankees slugger Roger Maris, who would smash the single season home run record in 1961, has PSA 10 value estimated around $15,000 currently. Another short printed Yankee star rookie, later known for a famous rivalry with Maris, is teammate Mickey Mantle. The Mantle rookie in Gem Mint PSA 10 can fetch over $5,000 on the open market. Moving to the National League, a PSA 10 of future Cubs/Cards star Ernie Banks’ rookie would sell in the $2,000-3,000 range currently.

For rookie pitchers, future 300-game winner Don Drysdale’s first card has PSA 10 value estimated around $2,500 today. Another notable pitching rookie is Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins, whose 1959 is valued around $1,500 in PSA 10 condition. One can also find rookie cards in 1959 of future stars like Willie McCovey, Tommy Davis, Juan Marichal, and Vada Pinson – all in the $1,000-2,000+ PSA 10 range showing the depth of top rookies in the historic set beyond just the true superstars. Condition is everything, as lower mint PSA 8s of these players still hold value of several hundred dollars at minimum.

When it comes to established stars of 1959 who were not rookies, the most coveted card is without question the iconic image of Mantle in mid swing that graces the set’s base card design. In PSA Gem Mint 10 condition, the Mantle commands prices reliably in the $3,000-$5,000 range given its combination of subject, scarcity in top grade, and historical status as one of the most widely distributed and desired vintage cards in the hobby. 1959 also features defining Hall of Fame stars like Willie Mays, Bob Gibson, Eddie Mathews, and more all in the $1,000-$2,000+ PSA 10 range. Even lesser stars like Ron Santo, Billy Pierce, and Luis Aparicio have PSA 10 values estimated around the $500 mark or more depending on the auction.

The 1959 Topps baseball card set holds an unimpeachable place among collectors as one of the true Mount Rushmore issues. Featuring a who’s who of rookie cards, iconic stars, and defining images, PSA has established a price guide that pays homage to the set’s importance through values that soar well into five figures for true gems like the Hank Aaron and Pete Rose rookies in pristine PSA 10 grade. Even lower mint gems and excellent condition examples still command prices many times greater than modern printed rookies or stars. With over 60 years of history and nostalgia imbued in each cardboard cutout, the 1959 Topps set stands as a legend regardless of numerical grade or price – but as PSA so adeptly articulates, raw condition greatly impacts estimated financial value of these beloved and storied pieces of baseball card history.

1959 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SET

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set was the eighth series of baseball cards produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc. and featured all current Major League Baseball players from that season. The set totaled 524 cards and was one of the most notable issues from the 1950s due to several standout rookie cards and hall of famers featured.

Some key aspects that make the 1959 Topps set historically significant include it being the first year Topps used photo variations on many of the cards. It also featured the rookie cards of future hall of famers Nolan Ryan and Bob Gibson. Perhaps most notably, the 1959 set included the debut Topps card of Mickey Mantle, who was already a seven-time All-Star and three-time American League MVP by that point.

Mantle’s rookie season had been in 1951 but Topps did not begin featuring him regularly until this eighth series. His card from the 1959 set, numbered 490, shows Mantle batting from the left side with the classic Yankees cap logo visible. In the background is the original Yankee Stadium. Mantle’s card from this set in near-mint condition can fetch over $10,000 today, a testament to his legendary career and status as one of the most coveted players to collect from the 1950s and 60s.

Another standout rookie card featured in the 1959 Topps set was that of Nolan Ryan, who was just a 17-year old prospect in the Mets system at the time. His card, numbered 138, depicted Ryan pitching for the Mets’ Class A affiliate in the Florida State League. Ryan would go on to have one of the most decorated pitching careers in baseball history, establishing numerous strikeout records and pitching until he was 46 years old in 1993. High grade examples of Ryan’s 1959 Topps rookie in a PSA/DNA 10 gem mint condition have sold for over $30,000.

Perhaps the most historically significant rookie card from the 1959 Topps set belonged to Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Gibson, who had just broken into the major leagues with the St. Louis Cardinals that year. His card, numbered 110, showed Gibson in a Cardinals road jersey. Gibson went on to anchor the Cardinals’ rotation for 17 seasons, winning 251 career games and two World Series titles. He remains one of the most intimidating and dominant pitchers in baseball history. Pristine PSA/DNA 10 examples of Gibson’s 1959 Topps rookie card have reached the $75,000 price point at auction.

Beyond the star rookies, the 1959 Topps set also featured established players like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Ted Williams who were already legends of the game by that point. Aaron’s card from the set, numbered 442, depicted the Milwaukee Braves slugger in a batting stance. Mays’ card, numbered 499, showed the Say Hey Kid rounding third base for the Giants. And Williams’ card, numbered 466, pictured the Red Sox left fielder taking a mighty cut in the batter’s box. All three players are now enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

In addition to the iconic rookie cards and hall of famers, the 1959 Topps set also included the last baseball cards produced for players like Roy Campanella and Earl Torgeson, who both retired after the 1958 season. It was also the final Topps card issued for Hall of Famer Richie Ashburn prior to his trade to the Chicago Cubs after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies.

One of the more visually striking aspects of the 1959 Topps set was the inclusion of photo variations on many cards. Rather than just one static image, several players had two slightly different photos used on their cards within the same issue. This added a layer of complexity for collectors looking to complete the 524 card set. Examples of players with photo variations included Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Ted Williams, and early career stars like Roberto Clemente and Willie McCovey.

In terms of design and production values, the 1959 Topps cards had a classic vertical format measuring approximately 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches. The team logo appeared prominently across the top along with the player’s name and position. Statistics from the previous season were listed on the back. As with other 1950s Topps issues, the cardboard stock was thin and had no glossy coating. Overall condition of high grade examples has always been a challenge due to the fragile nature of the stock over decades of handling.

When it was originally released in 1959, the 524 card Topps baseball set retailed for 10 cents per pack with either 5 or 7 cards inside random wax paper wrappers. While not especially scarce even in top condition today, the iconic rookie cards of Mantle, Ryan, and Gibson along with several Hall of Fame veterans make the 1959 Topps set one of the most historically important issues from the early modern era of baseball cards. Its mix of established stars and young talents just starting their careers created a time capsule of 1950s baseball that remains a highly collectible part of the hobby decades later.

MOST VALUABLE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1959

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues ever produced by the legendary trading card company. This set saw the introduction of player photos on the front of cards for the first time in Topps history. With this change, the 1959 Topps set kickstarted a new era of colorful, photograph-centric baseball cards that still define the modern collecting landscape today.

While not quite as historically significant or coveted as the beloved 1952 Topps set in the eyes of serious collectors, 1959 Topps cards possess tremendous nostalgic appeal and can demand monstrous sums when high-grade examples of the true stars and rookie cards from that season surface on the market. Here is a ranking of the five most valuable 1959 Topps baseball cards based on long-term auction trends and population data:

Mickey Mantle #290

As one of the undisputed legends of the sport and among the most charismatic athletes of the 20th century, it’s no surprise that any card featuring “The Mick” is in demand. Mantle’s 1959 Topps issue is widely considered the key card of the entire set. High-grade specimens, especially those earning BGS/PSA grades of 9 or higher, have broken records by selling for well over $100,000. Even well-centered examples in lower grade ranges like PSA 6 can garner five figures. Of course, Mantle’s massive stature combined with the extreme rarity of finding his 1959 in pristine condition accounts for its elite valuation among collectors.

Willie Mays #142

While “The Say Hey Kid” may be second fiddle to Mantle in terms of his 1959 Topps card’s price, Mays continues to hold legendary status of his own as arguably the greatest all-around player in MLB history. As with Mantle, condition is critical – a PSA 9+ example could realistically be worth in the neighborhood of $50,000. But even lower graded Mays from ’59 remain enormously coveted by collectors. Like Mickey, his unique blend of astounding ability, entertainment value, and larger-than-life charisma ensures the #142 will retain blue-chip status.

Ted Williams #78

Arguably the greatest pure hitter who ever lived, Ted Williams’ impressive career achievements have granted his trading cards long-term, deep collector interest. While never quite as flashy or well-known as the two cards above it, the 1959 edition of the “Splendid Splinter” still commands impressive sums. A PSA 8.5 could pull in $15,000 with ease. Above a 9, values escalate sharply, as high-quality specimens have crossed the $30,000 threshold. An appreciation for Williams’ hitting talents and playing demeanor sustained attention on his cardboard over decades.

Hank Aaron #35

Before passing the Babe on the all-time home run list, Hank Aaron was already forging a Hall of Fame career with the Milwaukee Braves in 1959. His Topps issue reflects solid but not astronomical demand, though condition is vital. An authentic PSA 9 recently hit an auction price north of $10,000, highlighting the card’s desirability at mountain-top quality levels. For collectors coveting any piece of “Hammerin’ Hank’s” legacy within the reach of their budget, even well-centered copies in lower grades still trade actively. With time, Aaron’s #35 may see values rise as his all-around greatness becomes more widely recognized.

Nellie Fox #257

Though his playing career long predated the collector boom, second baseman Nellie Fox’s spectacular fielding prowess has made his 1959 Topps a surprise darling for condition-sensitive buyers in recent times. At just a hair under 2,500 produced, the Fox rookie has scarcity working heavily in its favor. Remarkably, a PSA 9 brought over $9,000 at auction, showing that condition trumps all other factors for some when hunting trophies from the set’s more obscure players. Fox’s defensive expertise combined with the rarity of finding his first card pristine keeps desirability high, if volatile, for informed collectors chasing the whitest of white whales.

While the five cards detailed above reign over 1959 Topps values in top-notch shape, several other stars and key rookies from that year hold tremendous appeal too based on their players’ historical significance. Names like Early Wynn, Minnie Minoso, Luis Aparicio, N.L. Rookie of the Year Willie McCovey and AL counterpart Bob Allison still attract healthy sums for collectors completing high-end registry sets. As with any vintage issue, condition is paramount no matter the name on the card. But for informed collectors passionate about preserving irreplaceable pieces of baseball history, the 1959 Topps cards remain a peak that few other sets have reached.

PRICING FOR BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 1959

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the hobby. It marks Mickey Mantle’s transition from a young star to true leader of the Yankees. It features rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan and Jim Bunning. And it highlights legends like Ted Williams in what would be his last season. With its historical significance and star power, the ’59 Topps set is a highly sought after issue for collectors. Here is an in-depth look at pricing trends for the set and what factors influence the value of its most important cards.

In top graded condition, some of the key rookies and stars from the ’59 Topps set can fetch five figures or more at auction. A PSA 10 Mantle is routinely one of the strongest sellers, last bringing over $100,000. In PSA 9, it still demands $30,000-$50,000 depending on the market. Other outliers near or exceeding $10,000 include a PSA 10 Ted Williams or Hank Aaron, and PSA 9 examples of Nolan Ryan, Jim Bunning, or Willie Mays rookie cards.

For most of the star cards in lower grades, prices fall off significantly but still hold value relative to sets from other eras. A Mantle in PSA 8 is still worth $5,000-$8,000, for example. Aaron and Williams remain four figures even in PSA 7. Condition is critically important – a Mantle that grades as a PSA 6 might sell in the $1,000 range while a true gem mint PSA 8 could reach the high end of the above estimates.

For the key rookie cards, PSA 10 grades are exceptionally rare and can eclipse $10,000 if a Bunning ever surfaces. But even lesser grades retain relevance – a PSA 8 Ryan is routinely a $2,000-$3,000 card while lower PSA grades still pull mid-four figures. The key rookie cards maintain value deeper into the spectrum of grades compared to stars whose appeal is more concentrated at the top.

Moving beyond the elite cards, there are still many stars from the 1959 season that hold multiples of the original issue price even in lower grades. For example:

Brooklyn Dodgers starter Don Drysdale in PSA 5 grade recently sold for around $400.

Chicago White Sox slugger Earl Battey in similarly low grade sold for near $300.

Veteran Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Smokey Burgess pulled around $200 in comparable condition.

So even for solid role players and backups, there is collector interest if the card grades at the threshold of being identifiable. For mid-level regulars and above average players, prices rise into the $500-$1,000 range depending on team, player pedigree, and grade.

Condition, of course, is still king when it comes to pricing 1959 Topps. Near perfect cards from this classic set properly bring five figure sums. But what makes the issue so collectible and affordable for most hobbyists is that useful copies retaining a player’s visual identity can be acquired for just $100-500 across a wide range of subjective grades.

Outside of the star power, there are also several key subset variations that can bump up value given their scarcity. Top among these is the “scarce team” subset featuring the failed Continental League teams like the Denver Bears and Minneapolis Millers. High grade examples routinely sell in the $1,000 range. Another coveted subset is the “Powers of Pittsburgh” highlighting legendary Pirates like Roberto Clemente. Even common variations within the base set like the “action” pose parallel cards tend to command a 20-50% premium to the standard image.

When considering pricing 1959 Topps, one must also account for several macro factors impacting the vintage market. Strong financial markets and increased disposable income have supported stable to rising prices across the board in recent years. Growing mainstream attention has exposed the set to new collector segments. And issues of this vintage are aging out of the original collector base, making high grade specimens all the scarcer with time.

These macro trends, combined with the iconic rookie cards, memorable photography of soon-to-retire legends, and historical significance of capturing a sport in real-time, all contribute to the 1959 Topps set maintaining a lofty position among collectors sixty years later. Pricing is stratified by player, condition, and specific variants – but the framework of five and six figure superstars supported by understandable values even for role players makes it one of the most accessible flagship sets from the early years of modern issue baseball cards.

BASEBALL CARDS 1959

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The 1959 baseball card season marked a transition period in the hobby. While the biggest card manufacturers of the time like Topps, Fleer, and Bowman were still producing sets, the cards started reflecting broader changes in American culture and the sport itself.

Topps dominated the baseball card market in the late 1950s. For 1959, they produced their standard pink backed design with over 500 cards in the set. Some of the biggest stars to grace the ’59 Topps cards included Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax, and Ted Williams in his final MLB season. The cards featured vibrant color portraits of the players against a solid pink background. Fun facts, stats, and career highlights were included on the back of each card.

Topps continued their run of innovation in 1959 with the introduction of the first “Traded” subset. These cards highlighted players who were traded or dealt during the previous season. Topps would take existing portrait photos from prior years and add text noting the trade. Traded cards became a staple of future Topps sets. The ’59 Traded cards featured players like Nellie Fox, Early Wynn, and Harvey Kuenn.

While still producing a full baseball card set, 1959 marked the end of the Fleer company’s short run issuing cards. Founded in 1881, Fleer produced baseball cards for only 3 seasons from 1956-1958. Fleer cards are highly collectible today due to their short print run. The ’59 Fleer cards featured many of the same players as Topps but with a unique design using a light blue backdrop. The Fleer company would later re-enter the baseball card market in 1981.

Bowman also issued a smaller 110 card set in 1959 before discontinuing baseball cards. Their designs were similar to Topps with pink borders but featured more action shots of players. Bowman focused on capturing iconic photos that showed the players in action during games. Future Hall of Famers like Willie Mays and Hank Aaron could be found in the ’59 Bowman set.

Beyond the big three manufacturers, smaller regional companies produced baseball cards during this period as well. Mars/Franklin Mint issued a 75 card Chicago Cubs team set. Card companies like Leaf and Post also had short print runs. These obscure issues have become highly valuable to collectors today.

The late 1950s saw the continued rise of baseball as America’s national pastime. With television bringing the game into living rooms, stars like Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, and Hank Aaron were becoming household names. The 1959 cards reflected this newfound popularity and focus on individual players. Full color photos helped turn cards into baseball memorabilia prized by both kids and adults.

Culturally, 1959 was also a transitional year. The civil rights movement was gaining momentum as Rosa Parks refusal to give up her bus seat sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. Four years later, the National Baseball Hall of Fame inducted its first African American player – Jackie Robinson. The 1959 cards featured more Black ballplayers than ever before as the color barrier in the sport continued falling. Pioneers like Ernie Banks and Curt Flood had prominent cards that year.

While the 1950s cards focused more on stats and highlights on the back, the late 50s also started seeing the first “action shot” reverse designs. Topps led this trend, capturing iconic photos of players swinging, fielding, or running the bases. This helped turn cards into true baseball memorabilia instead of just stats. 1959 Topps had early examples like Roy Face’s pitching card that showed him mid-windup or Nellie Fox stealing second base.

The 1959 season also saw major rule changes come to MLB. The mound was moved back significantly, from 50 feet to 60’6″, in an effort to increase offense. New batting and pitching records would soon follow. The cards reflected these changes coming to America’s pastime. Future Hall of Famers like Koufax, Aaron, and Mays dominated the late 50s – their ’59 rookies are especially valuable today.

The 1959 baseball card season marked both a transition period for the hobby and the sport itself. While iconic manufacturers left the field after short runs, Topps solidified its dominance with its standard pink bordered design. The cards started showcasing more action photography and star power. Cultural changes within MLB and America at large also began being reflected on the cardboard. The 1959 issues laid important groundwork for the upcoming golden era of 1960s cards that have become hugely popular with collectors today.

1959 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1959 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide Overview
The 1959 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. It was the last Topps set before they lost exclusive rights to produce cards for the next few years, allowing competitors like Fleer to enter the market. With no competition and excitement over a new decade of baseball, the 1959 Topps cards sold extremely well upon initial release.

Today, the 1959 cards remain popular with collectors and have seen values increase steadily over the past few decades. The high print run numbers means most common cards can still be obtained in worn condition for just a few dollars. The best conditioned examples of stars can command thousands due to their iconic designs, player quality, and nostalgia attached to the late 1950s.

This guide will provide estimates for the values of 1959 Topps cards in different grades. It’s important to note that exact prices can fluctuate based on recent sales comps and the exact condition of individual cards. Buyers and sellers should use EBAY, PWCC, or other sources to check recent average sales of specific players when conducting transactions.

1959 Topps Baseball Card Set Overview

Total Cards: 520 regular issues
Designer: Norm Jacobs
Photographers: Art Spiegelman, Settelmayer Brothers
Manufacturer: Topps
Distribution: Wax Packs (5 cards per pack, 1 stick of gum)
Logo: None on cards, “Topps Chewing Gum” on wrapper

1959 Topps Baseball Card Grading Scale

Poor (P): Flaking and worn edges, creases, staining
Fair (FR): Minor wear around edges, light creasing
Good (GD): Moderate wear, borders fading slightly
Very Good (VG): Minimal wear on edges, light corner wear
Excellent (EX): Near perfect, slight corner wear only
Mint (MT): Perfect centering, sharp corners and edges

Key 1959 Topps Baseball Cards and Estimated Values:

Hank Aaron RC – $2,000 (EX), $5,000 (MT)
One of the most valuable cards in the set due to Aaron’s Hall of Fame career and his rookie card status. Condition is critical to value.

Willie Mays – $500 (EX), $1,000 (MT)
An iconic star of the late 1950s who remains one of the game’s all-time greats. Condition drives value.

Sandy Koufax RC – $750 (EX), $1,500 (MT)
Another hugely valuable rookie, though condition is more lax due to larger print run vs. Aaron RC. Still a key card.

Ernie Banks – $200 (EX), $500 (MT)
“Mr. Cub” was a fan favorite and star hitter of the 1950s/60s. High grades carry premium due to demand.

Whitey Ford – $100 (EX), $250 (MT)
Legendary Yankee pitcher who won over 200 games. Value supported by success and nostalgia.

Bob Gibson RC – $300 (EX), $600 (MT)
HOF pitcher whose rookie is in high demand due to his intimidating presence on the mound.

Nellie Fox – $75 (EX), $150 (MT)
1959 AL MVP and a surefire HOFer despite retiring early. Collector favorite from this era.

Warren Spahn – $50 (EX), $100 (MT)
Legendary Braves LHP won 363 career games. Youth and success contribute to moderate demand.

Roy Campanella – $30 (EX), $60 (MT)
HOF catcher whose career was cut short by accident remains a well-known name from this vintage.

Don Drysdale RC – $150 (EX), $300 (MT)
HOF Dodgers RHP who won 209 career games. Rookie cards hold value due to his accomplishments.

Miscellaneous Cards:

Common Stars (EX) – $10-30
This covers cards of well-known but not “premium” stars like Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron (#2 card), etc.

Solid Veterans (EX) – $5-10
Players past their prime but with decent careers attract light bidding – guys like Early Wynn, Minnie Minoso.

Rookies of Future Stars (EX) – $20-50
Cards like Ron Santo and Lou Brock attract interest since they were future all-stars, though print runs lower values.

Common Players (VG-EX) – $1-5
cards of average players fill out the set – most can be found in worn condition for a few dollars or less.

1959 Topps Baseball Factors Affecting Value

Condition: As with any vintage issue, condition is king. High grades can increase value exponentially.

Rookie Cards: RCs of HOFers are the most coveted and valuable, especially in top condition.

Hall of Fame Players: Cards of players with storied careers and enshrined in Cooperstown sell for healthy premiums.

Printing Quantity: Commons were mass-produced so supply is plentiful, lowering prices. Keys like RCss were printed less.

Player Accomplishments: Stats, awards, and team success boost demand for stars from that era.

Set Completion: Having a fully intact 1959 set is an achievement for collectors and carries its own cachet.

Pop Culture Impact: The 1959 designs remain eye-catching works of art that trigger nostalgia for many.

Modern Rarity Standards: Condition standards are higher now, limiting “gem mint” supply and increasing prices accordingly over time.

Market Forces: Just like stocks, prices go through peaks and valleys depending on overall vintage card market conditions and demand.

In Summary

The 1959 Topps baseball card set holds a hallowed place in the hearts of collectors as one of the most iconic vintage issues ever produced. While the print run keeps common cards affordable, premium examples of the legendary rookies and all-time greats can sell for thousands due to their historical significance. Condition, completeness, and availability will always be crucial in determining values for this prized set from the dawn of the modern baseball card era.

1959 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic in the hobby’s history. It marked Topps’ transition from using black-and-white photos to colorful player portraits and card designs. As a result of this change, along with being the first cards issued after the 1958 World Series, the 1959s occupy a special place for collectors and remain some of the most sought-after vintage cards.

Within the set, some stand out far above the rest in terms of their collectibility and monetary worth. Let’s take an in-depth look at the 1959 Topps cards that command the highest prices in the hobby due to their scarcity, historical significance, and condition.

The undisputed king of the 1959 Topps set is the #311 Mickey Mantle card. Widely considered the “Mona Lisa” of baseball cards due to its exquisite photo and centering, the Mantle is the most valuable vintage cardboard in existence when graded high. In pristine mint condition, it has sold for over $2.8 million, making it worth more than a nice home in many areas.

Even well-worn low-grade Mantle cards fetch five-figure sums. Its immense popularity and demand are driven not just by Mantle’s legendary status as one of the game’s greatest players, but also the iconic quality of this specific card’s design and photo capturing “The Mick” in his batting stance. Finding a perfect 10 Mantle #311 is like discovering the Holy Grail for collectors.

Next up is Roger Maris’ #130 card, which skyrocketed in value after he broke Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record in 1961. Maris’ achievement was a watershed moment in baseball history, and today his ’59 Topps card sells for big money reflecting that fame, even though he’s not in the same class as Mantle as a player. Graded gems can sell for over $100,000, with average condition copies still going for thousands.

Like the Mantle, condition is critical – but Maris cards are still highly sought after and command impressive sums regardless of grade. Any card commemorating his 61 HR season earns a major premium. The achievement alone keeps the ’59 Maris among the set’s premier keys even over 60 years later.

Staying in the realm of home run records, another ’59 Topps card with eye-popping values is Ted Williams’ #76. As one of the greatest hitters ever who also walked away from the game still holding the Major League single-season batting average record of .406, Williams is a legend. His ’59 cards commonly sell for $5,000-$10,000 or more in top-grade, depending on auction activity and popularity at a given moment.

In addition to chronicling iconic performances, valuable 1959s also pay tribute to pioneering players who broke barriers. Ernie Banks’ #78 card stands out in this regard. As the first African American player for the Chicago Cubs and a 14-time All-Star dubbed “Mr. Cub,” Banks was a trailblazer. His high-grade ’59 is worth $3,000-$6,000 due to his historic significance and popularity in Chicago/among Cub fans in particular.

Condition, as always, is paramount – but Banks cards retain value regardless in recognition of his accomplishments as one of baseball’s earliest Black superstars. When a PSA/BVG Gem MT 10 Banks pops up, it can soar well above the typical range given his rarity and appeal to diverse collectors.

Although they played prior to the full growth of the vintage sports card market, legends like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Sandy Koufax also have impressive ’59s today. Mays’ iconic leaping catch photo on his #110 earns consistent five-figure prices for high-quality specimens. Aaron’s #76 and Koufax’s #217 similarly sell for thousands, as both were well on their way to the Hall of Fame by 1959 despite their early careers.

While the above standouts typically get all the attention as icons, lower-tier keys that can still break $1,000 include Nellie Fox (#115), Harvey Kuenn (#239), Early Wynn (#244) and Billy Pierce (#278). Each was an impact all-star caliber player who showed up prominently in the late-1950s baseball landscape captured in this seminal set.

And of course, condition is critical across the board. As the saying goes in the hobby – grades make grades. The difference between a mid-range copy and a true gem-quality candidate can mean a difference of hundreds if not thousands of dollars realized. Original centering, sharpness of colors and image, and lack of flaws decide a card’s potential at auction.

In summing up, the 1959 Topps baseball issue marked a revolutionary point in the fledgling hobby. Six decades later, its cards remain hugely popular with both vintage collectors and investors given the legendary players and events they commemorate from such a pivotal time in sports history. Conditioned examples of the above keys can preserve their value for generations to come.