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KELLOGG’s 3D BASEBALL CARDS 1979

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Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Card Promotion of 1979

In 1979, Kellogg’s cereal launched an innovative baseball card promotion that truly captured the imagination of young baseball fans across America. By including special lenticular 3D baseball cards in specially marked boxes of Kellogg’s cereal, the company introduced an entirely new collectible experience that brought the players literally off the card and into three dimensions. For kids of the late 1970s and early 1980s, these 3D baseball cards represented the pinnacle of baseball card technology and collecting excitement at the time.

The lenticular technology that enabled the 3D effect was still quite new, with the concept first introduced outside of cereal boxes on trading cards promoting the 1968 Summer Olympics. However, Kellogg’s was the first to utilize this technology at scale within the booming baseball card market. Starting in March 1979 and running through that summer, Kellogg’s embedded special lenticular strips on 3D cards featuring over 50 Major League Baseball stars, including superstars like Reggie Jackson, Nolan Ryan, and Johnny Bench.

When viewed from side to side, the lenticular images appeared to take on a three-dimensional pop. Most cards portrayed the player from the chest up in action, such as taking a swing or winding up a pitch. The effect was achieved through a type of lenticular lens embedded in thin plastic strips bonded to the card. By printing dual offset images behind these lenses, and placing the lenses close together, the illusion of depth and movement is created when the card is tilted or turned from side to side due to the lenses selectively revealing one image or the other.

The futuristic technological innovation captured kids’ imaginations even more than traditional 2D cards. For collectors, the new 3D cards represented the pinnacle of what a baseball card could be. Finding one inside a cereal box was an exciting surprise. While inclusion rates were generally one 3D card per box on average, some boxes contained multiple extras due to production variations.

Kellogg’s massive marketing push for the promotion included print and TV commercials showcasing the 3D effect. The ads invited kids to “Reach out and grab the action” by collecting the special cards. Baseball card conventions of the time also featured 3D card displays to stimulate interest. Meanwhile, baseball card shops immediately began showcasing completed 3D card sets in plastic display cases for eager collectors to see.

Perhaps most impressively, Kellogg’s produced 3D cards for an immense selection of over 50 MLB stars in just that initial 1979 run. The cards spanned both leagues and all playing positions, ensuring broad appeal nationwide. Legendary players featured included Hank Aaron, Joe DiMaggio, Brooks Robinson, Gaylord Perry, Tom Seaver, and more.

For dedicated collectors aiming to complete a full set, Kellogg’s 3D cards presented a considerable challenge compared to traditional two-dimensional cards. Finding any specific player required eating lots of cereal boxes in hopes of getting lucky. Trading and buying extras from other collectors became very popular ways to fill gaps.

As one of the earliest mainstream lenticular 3D products, the production quality of Kellogg’s cards was quite advanced for the time but not without some flaws. The lenticular lenses had a tendency to peel away from the card over time if not stored carefully. Excess moisture or heat could cause some degradation to the effect. Cards that survived in top condition continued to amaze viewers decades later with their authentic 3D rendering of baseball stars.

By the end of 1979, Kellogg’s cereal promotion had been a rousing success in bringing excitement and a technological wonder to the baseball card collecting hobby. Cards from that initial series remain highly sought after by collectors today in recognition of their importance as one of the pioneering 3D card products. Baseball card conventions and memorabilia shows frequently feature exhibits showcasing the innovation and impact of Kellogg’s 1979 3D baseball card promotion. Even over 40 years later, the cards still bring a smile to those who can remember opening a cereal box as a kid to experience that magical 3D baseball action up close.

1979 BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1979 baseball card set was a pivotal year in the hobby. Stars like Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Dave Parker were entering their primes while legends like Hank Aaron and Willie Mays were in their final seasons. The designs featured on the cards from Topps, Fleer, and Donruss were some of the most creative of the 1970s. Now over 40 years later, these vintage 79s hold significant value, especially when sent to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) for independent grading.

Topps led the way in 1979 with their standard design of a headshot on the left and action photo on the right. The gray borders surrounding the images gave it a clean, classic look. One of the more notorious aspects of the set were the printing errors on some stars like Mike Schmidt and Steve Garvey, whose photos were flipped upside down!

While Topps reigned king as the largest baseball card company, Fleer broke through that year with their innovative card stock and centering focus close-ups instead of body shots. It was met with mixed reviews but helped launch Fleer as a serious competitor. They also included enticing uncorrected proofs and original artwork cards that added collector value.

Donruss ventured into the baseball card market strong as well in 1979. Known for crisp photos against a white backdrop, their designs had a simple elegance. The front captured the player while fun facts and stats populated the back. Donruss paralleled the quality and popularity of Topps in their inaugural baseball card printing.

The Condition Census is an important tool created by PSA to provide collectors context on the population reports for vintage cards in various grades. For example, the 1979 Topps Nolan Ryan PSA 10 POP is just 61 cards, showing how difficult and rare it is to achieve the absolute highest score of gem mint. Cards like that carry premium value today.

At PSA, all 1979 baseball cards undergo a meticulous authentication and grading process. First, authenticators inspect for telltale signs of doctored examples like trimmed borders or glued-on signatures. Then, graders assess each card across 5 criteria – centering, corners, edges, surface, and color/clarity – on a 1-10 scale. Only flawless specimens deemed in pristine “mint” condition achieve the coveted PSA 10 designation.

As the leading third-party grading service, PSA slabs establish pedigree, provenance and bring clarity to a marketplace that trades significant dollars. Their modern encapsulation technology also protects valuable vintage cardboard treasures for future generations to admire. Some highly regarded 1979 PSA graded gems include George Brett rookie PSA 8, Robin Yount rookie PSA 9, and Dave Parker PSA 10.

As vintage collectors pursue conditioned examples of their favorite stars, 1979 Topps, Fleer and Donruss baseball rookies have exploded in value over time. George Brett’s rookie selling for over $100,000 PSA 9 proves how far the hobby has come. But savvy investors know that lower graded common rookie cards from PSA 7 down still offer upside appreciation potential compared to pristine mint examples out of reach for most budgets.

Thick plastic-protected case shots found in online auction inventories make1979 graded baseball cards highly liquid, bankable assets as well. Eager collectors display prized key rookies and stars in display boxes to relive childhood memories or pass down family heirlooms. And investors turn to slabbed vintage paper as a reliable store of value superior to typical stocks, bonds, cash savings accounts over the long run.

Of course, not all highly regarded vintage 1979 cardboard gets sent to PSA – it would bankrupt the authentication company! Among ungraded examples still to be rediscovered in attics or basements include rare proof prints, artist signatures, or oddball promotions that bring huge finds. But PSA certification raises the integrity, universal respect and financial worth for vintage paper sports collectibles trading hands. It’s why savvy collectors target 1979 Topps, Fleer and Donruss stars with the iconic PSA brand for long-term portfolio pieces. The history and memories attached to graded vintage gems from the hobby’s golden age endure forever.

1979 KELLOGG’s 3D BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards promotion was innovative and produced some fun collectibles that are still prized by collectors today. Kellogg’s issued a complete set of eighty 3D baseball cards that year as part of a cereal box promotion. The cards featured raised 3D images on the front similar to today’s lenticular cards. The backs provided stats and bios for each player. Some key things to know about the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards and their value:

The original promotion in 1979 made completing the full 80-card set fairly easy since Kellogg’s cereal boxes included multiple cards. The raised 3D images were a novel concept at the time that generated interest. While they were only intended to be a kids’ marketing gimmick by Kellogg’s, the unique 3D technology and baseball collectibles aspect ensured they had lasting appeal. Not all the cards held up perfectly either, as the thin plastic film covering the 3D layers could wrinkle or peel off over time depending on how the cards were stored and handled. This led to the development of varying condition grades that are important valuation factors today.

When it comes to pricing, the condition and completeness of a 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Card set is crucial. Loose or individual cards in poor condition may sell for just a few dollars each. Graded gem mint (or higher) samples of particularly key cards can reach into the hundreds. A complete set in top near mint-mint condition would likely fetch $300-500. Extremely well-preserved qualitative gem mint sets could potentially sell for $700-1000 or more if all the elements are there.

Some notable advantages of the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D issue that tend to maintain or increase their value include:

Only one year of issue, so they have maintained scarcity and recognition as one of the earliest mainstream sports card promotions.

Highly innovative 3D display element made them very popular and unique for their time. This collectors’ appeal has persisted.

Licensed MLB product with legitimate sports stars, not generic or artificial players. Features all teams of the era.

Complete, 80-card roster set is neatly contained and readily displayable/tradeable.

Individually, the most valuable 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards tend to be the more prominent Hall of Fame players, especially in top grades. Examples include:

Nolan Ryan – Often the top card in a graded set. Can reach $50-75 in NM-MT or above.

George Brett – Consistently one of the most popular ‘70s-‘80s Royals. $30-45 range.

Reggie Jackson – ‘Mr. October’s’ star power keeps values high at $25-40.

Mike Schmidt – Perennial MVP contender in the ’70s and Hall of Famer. Steadily $25-35.

Rookies are also keenly sought after by collectors:

Cal Ripken Jr. – In demand as a future Hall of Famer starting his career. Seen around $15-25.

Ozzie Smith – ‘The Wizard’ just starting to build his rep. Comparable rates to Ripken.

Don Mattingly – Rookie of then-Yankee first baseman is valued near $10-15 usually.

Not every card holds the same value, but most common players in topped graded condition are in the $5-10 range. And lessor stars may sell for just $2-5. A key is finding comparable sales data to determine pricing accurately based on player, grade, condition, and completeness of any collection.

While a marketing promotion at the time, the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards have developed a loyal collectibles fanbase due to their innovative display element and sports connection. For dedicated collectors, full sets maintain a consistent mid-range value outlook. But condition is paramount, and the top rookies or stars can always command premium rates. After over 40 years, they remain a unique and fun piece of cardboard collectibles history for those who enjoyed them as kids or admire the vintage sports card era. With care, a quality 1979 Kellogg’s 3D set retains solid value potential long-term.

PRICING FOR BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 1979

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the iconic issues from the 1970s. It marked Carlton Fisk’s first card as a member of the Chicago White Sox after spending his first several seasons with the Boston Red Sox. It also included Nolan Ryan’s record fifth no-hitter on the bottom corner of his card. Several factors influence the pricing of individual 1979 Topps baseball cards ranging from the player, the condition or grade of the card, and particular variations or errors that make certain cards more valuable than others.

One of the most influential players when it comes to pricing is of course, Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith. Known as “The Wizard” for his acrobatic defensive skills at shortstop, Smith debuted with the San Diego Padres in the 1979 season and had his rookie card in the ’79 Topps set. High grade versions of Ozzie Smith’s rookie card in near-mint to mint condition can fetch prices anywhere from $100 to well over $1,000 depending on factors like centering and corners. Another highly sought after rookie is Don Mattingly’s card, given his prolific career mainly with the New York Yankees. A PSA 9 or BVG 9 version of Mattingly’s 1979 Topps rookie in near-mint to mint condition has sold for over $500.

Hall of Famers with accomplished careers like Nolan Ryan and Reggie Jackson also command strong prices from collectors for their ’79 Topps cards. One of Ryan’s most notable pitching accomplishments is mentioned on the bottom of his 1979 card, which notes his record fifth career no-hitter. Top graded versions of this notable Nolan Ryan card can sell for $250-$500+. Meanwhile, a PSA/BVG 9 graded Reggie Jackson card from the ’79 set has sold for around $150-250 depending on the day. Other star players that maintained strong careers like Mike Schmidt and Dave Winfield also attract buyers willing to pay $50-$150 for high grade versions of their ’79 Topps cards depending on condition.

Beyond rookie cards and stars, there are also various errors, variations, and parallels in the 1979 Topps set that create niche demand and increase certain card values. One example is card #652 featuring Yankees outfielder Reggie Jackson, which has an error where the team logo is missing from the cap. This error variant has sold for over $3,000 in gem mint condition. Another significant parallel is the black border version cards, which were accidentally printed with a thicker black border on the front. Examples of these thicker black border parallels for high-demand stars like Ozzie Smith have sold for $600-$1,000 in top grades.

The condition or grade of a 1979 Topps card also strongly influences its current market value. On the collector scale, a PSA/BVG/SGC/Beckett grading of gem mint (10) or mint (9) can increase a card’s worth by 5-10x compared to a well-worn near-mint (7) or average-looking near-mint (8). Top graded examples of stars in 10 can reach the thousands, while mint 9s are usually in the 100s. Meanwhile, raw near-mint 7s or 8s of prominent players may sell in the $20-$50 range depending on centering and edges. Cards in poorer condition of fair (4) or lower have little value outside ofCompletists looking to finish sets.

To sum up, the 1979 Topps set remains a highly collectible issue from the 1970s. Key factors that influence pricing include the player featured, the card’s rarity through errors/variants, and most importantly – its state of preservation through rigorous grading. While commons and fillers aren’t too valuable, rookie cards, stars, and significant parallels maintain strong demand that is reflected in the secondary market pricing forty years after their initial release. For dedicated collectors, the 1979 Topps set offers both nostalgia as well as lucrative long term investment potential.

VALUE OF 1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues of the decade and holds significant value for collectors. Issued annually from 1952 to the present day, Topps remains the premier brand for baseball cards and its 1979 offering captures a pivotal time in the sport’s history. Containing a total of 792 cards, the 1979 issue introduced rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Dave Winfield, Cal Ripken Jr., and Wade Boggs that are highly coveted today.

While not as renowned as the 1952 Topps or 1954 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie cards, several key rookies from the 1979 set command enormous prices at auction. Dave Winfield’s rookie card in pristine mint condition could fetch over $10,000 given his stellar 21-year career that included 465 home runs, 3,110 hits, and election to the Hall of Fame in 2001. Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie card from 1979 is also exceptionally valuable, with PSA 10 examples selling for upwards of $7,000 due to his ironman status of playing in 2,632 consecutive games from 1982 to 1998.

Rookie cards for Wade Boggs and Ozzie Smith have also appreciated greatly, with an excellent quality Boggs rookie valued at nearly $4,000 based on his career .328 batting average and World Series MVP award. Likewise, a PSA Gem Mint 10 Ozzie Smith rookie is estimated at over $3,000 thanks to his defensive wizardry at shortstop that led to eight Gold Glove awards and an eventual Hall of Fame nod. Since Ripken, Smith, Boggs, and Winfield went on to become all-time greats, their rookie cards are in rarefied air among collectors.

Beyond star rookie cards, the 1979 Topps set features several other notable cards that maintain significant monetary worth. Nolan Ryan’s card is one of the most coveted in the set since he was already well established as a flamethrower by 1979 after tossing his historic fifth no-hitter the year prior. High grade examples in mint condition are valued around $250 given Ryan’s record seven career no-nos and Hall of Fame credentials. Similarly, a near-mint Robin Yount card can fetch $150-$200 on the market as he was a young All-Star second baseman at the time who would later win two AL MVP awards.

Other valuable regular cards in the 1979 Topps set include Carlton Fisk around $150 in mint shape as he was the reigning NL MVP and a future Hall of Famer, Pete Rose nearing $100 with his hit records and “Charlie Hustle” style of play, and Reggie Jackson at $90 after his legendary 1977 postseason heroics. Steve Garvey and Phil Niekro each carry an estimated value of $75 in top condition as consistent All-Stars as well. Even star pitchers like Bert Blyleven, Nolan Ryan, Jerry Koosman, and Rick Reuschel hold value of $50-$75 in pristine copies.

Beyond big stars, special significance cards or variations within the 1979 Topps set can accentuate certain cards’ worth. The Dave Parker “No Helmet” error card where he is pictured without headgear like his Pirates teammate Bill Robinson could demand $1,000 in mint condition. The Johnny Bench rookie card in the high series which features a smaller photo and different design borders is valued at over $300 compared to the regular Bench rookie. Limited multi-player cards or special checklist variations that were more scarce in pack distribution hold added rarity and trade for inflated prices.

The 1979 Topps set presents an attainable yet cherished collecting opportunity for both newcomers and experienced hobbyists. Grading key rookie cards like those of Winfield, Ripken Jr., Smith, Boggs, and others ensures optimal preservation that will allow future appreciation. But high quality examples of almost any card, from standard issues to rarities, maintain monetary worth. As one of the most complete snapshots from a storied era in baseball annals, the 1979 Topps set enthralls collectors with its historical presentation of the late 1970s pastime. Nearly 45 years later, it stays relevant in the vintage memorabilia market due its memorable mix of all-time greats and promising prospects in their developmental stages.

BEST 1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the 1970s. While it lacked some of the star rookies and hall of famers that elevated other years, the ’79 Topps set remains a fan favorite due to its classic design elements and memorable photos. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards and what makes them so desirable among collectors.

The biggest star and most coveted card from the 1979 Topps set is #1, Nolan Ryan of the California Angels. Ryan was already well established as one of the game’s hardest throwers and strikeout kings by this point in his career. His ’79 Topps card captures him mid-windup, his powerful right arm cocked back and fiery intensity on his face. What makes this card particularly special is it marks Ryan’s last season with the Angels before being traded to the Houston Astros. Only a few thousand of the Nolan Ryan #1 card were produced, giving it a rarity that drives values up into the thousands of dollars for high-grade copies.

Another California Angels star with a highly-valued ’79 Topps card is Rod Carew at #20. By 1979, Carew had already won 5 batting titles and an MVP award while establishing himself as one of the best pure hitters in baseball. His smooth, compact lefty swing is on full display in his card photo. Carew was also traded after the ’79 season, adding to the desirability of this final Angels card. High-grade Carew rookies can sell for well over $1000.

For Yankees fans, one of the most iconic ’79 Topps cards is #340, featuring slugger Reggie Jackson mid-swing. “Mr. October” had just led the Yankees to another World Series title in 1978 while cementing his playoff legend status. There’s an intensity and swagger captured in Jackson’s powerful cut that exemplifies his personality and style of play. In mint condition, a PSA 10 copy of this card has sold for over $3000.

Rookies are always a highlight for any Topps set, and 1979 had some future Hall of Famers and all-time greats show up for the first time, including Cal Ripken Jr. of the Baltimore Orioles at #81. Though overshadowed by other stars as a rookie, Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s iconic consecutive games played record and cement his place as one of the most durable and respected players ever. High-grade Ripken rookies in a PSA 10 slab now sell for $1000-1500.

Another rookie standout is #91, Tony Gwynn of the San Diego Padres. Gwynn’s smooth lefty swing is on full display as he follows through on a pitch. He was just starting to show the elite bat control and hitting ability that would make him a .338 career hitter. In pristine PSA 10 condition, Gwynn’s ’79 rookie has sold for over $2000 due to his Hall of Fame career and the iconic photo.

While stars and rookies get the most attention, the 1979 Topps set is also beloved for its classic design elements and photography. Bright solid colors, thick borders, and large cleat-style player names give the cards a very vintage baseball card aesthetic. Photo selection was also on point, with many cards featuring interesting action shots over traditional posed portraits. The backs also included a fun “Did You Know?” fact about each player that added personality. When combined with the talent featured, it’s easy to understand why the ’79 Topps set remains such a collector favorite over 40 years later.

While it may not have had the true rookie star power of some other years, the 1979 Topps baseball card set endures because it perfectly captured the personalities and styles of some all-time great players through its memorable photography and design elements. Key cards like Nolan Ryan, Rod Carew, Reggie Jackson, Cal Ripken Jr., and Tony Gwynn maintain high values today because they were the first or among the last to feature those players with certain teams. For nostalgia, investment potential, and its timeless baseball card aesthetic, the 1979 Topps set deserves its place among the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history.

1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set holds a special place in the hobby for several reasons. For collectors, finding an unopened box of these cards from nearly 50 years ago is like discovering buried treasure. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes the 1979 Topps issue so desirable and valuable today.

The 1979 Topps set was the 18th series of modern baseball cards issued by Topps after they lost their monopoly following the courts ruling that their exclusive agreement with MLB was illegal. With competition now in the marketplace from rivals like Fleer, Topps had to work harder to win back collectors. They delivered arguably one of the sharpest and most visually appealing designs of the 1970s with the 1979 iteration.

The card fronts featured action photos of the players with bold team wordmarks arched across the top. Statistics were presented clearly in an easy to read font on the bottom third of the card alongside the player’s name. Turn the card over and you were treated to an illustration in team colors that spilled over the borders. Player bios struck the perfect balance of stats and fun little facts that captured the era.

Topps also took advantage of the larger 3.5×2.5 inch card size used from 1975-1981 to really make the photos and illustrations pop. The thicker stock Cardboard was also a step up from what they had been using prior. All of these small upgrades in design and production quality added up to a very collector-friendly final product.

Another thing that made the 1979 Topps set stand out was the incredible talent featured on the cards. You had superstars in their prime like Nolan Ryan, Dave Winfield, Reggie Jackson, and George Brett. Up and coming future Hall of Famers like Robin Yount and Eddie Murray also had their rookie cards in this set.

The 1979 season itself was also quite memorable. The “Team of the 70s” Pittsburgh Pirates won their 4th division title in 6 years. The “Killer B’s” Houston Astros quickly became a powerhouse led by baseball’s new slugging star in Jose Cruz. And a young pitching sensation named Orel Hershiser made his debut for the Dodgers.

These real-life storylines unfolding during the year added excitement and nostalgia for the cardboard representations of the players and teams in the 1979 Topps set today. The vintage appeal has only increased over the ensuing decades as well.

Perhaps most desirably to collectors though is finding a complete unopened wax box of 1979 Topps cards. These boxes originally contained 24 wax packs with 11 cards per pack, totaling 264 cards. Simply put, they are almost impossible to locate today in unmolested condition straight from the Topps warehouse in the 1970s.

Opening day wax boxes were shipped directly to local retail outlets and sold quickly as the new baseball card season kicked off. Over 40 years later, the survivability rate of any remaining unopened boxes is exceedingly low. The wax and glue used in the manufacturing can break down with age if not properly stored. Add in the natural curiosity of people over the decades to rip open packs, and few boxes escape intact.

Those lucky few unopened 1979 Topps wax boxes that have survived since 1979 and can be verified are considered true prizes among vintage sports memorabilia collectors today. In the collectibles marketplace, they can fetch appraisal values well into the five figures depending on overall condition. The historical significance and intangible “cool factor” of a time capsule box like this is incredibly difficult to replicate.

While the individual 1979 Topps cards themselves can still be acquired comparatively inexpensively, finding that elusive unopened wax box brings together all the nostalgia, appeal of the designs and players, and condition factors that long-time collectors dream of discovering. For those wishing to add one of the most legendary vintage sealed products to their collection, a 1979 Topps wax box in pristine shape is about as good as it gets…and will likely continue increasing in value over time as well.

1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is one of the iconic releases from the 1970s that still resonates strongly with collectors today. The designs and photography from this series have stood the test of time. For enthusiasts looking to invest in graded examples of stars and key cards from this set, Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) slabbing is generally the preferred choice.

Released in 1979, the Topps flagship set contains 524 total cards including 30 playoff performers cards and 22 manager cards for a base set of 472 players. Some of the biggest stars featured include Nolan Ryan, Pete Rose, George Brett, Robin Yount, Reggie Jackson and Dave Winfield. Condition is especially important for high value vintage cards like these. PSA has been the gold standard in third-party grading since 1991 and provides assurance to potential buyers that a card is authentic and has been assigned an accurate numerical grade.

For the 1979 Topps set, the most desirable PSA population report grades are Gem Mint 10 and Mint 9. These top two tiers give collectors the best chance at acquiring a perfectly centered example in pristine condition without creases, folds or other flaws. Even PSA 8s and lower for rare and valuable cards can sell quite well depending on the player or card design. It’s important to check the latest Pop Reports online for each individual card to understand how many have achieved certain grades. Population helps determine scarcity and current market value.

Some 1979 Topps cards that consistently attract serious interest and premium prices in PSA 10 condition include Nolan Ryan’s base card, the Reggie Jackson All-Star card, Steve Garvey’s Phillies card after his big trade and vintage rookie cards for Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith and Cal Ripken Jr. Lower pop reports make attaining a pristine grade even more difficult. On the secondary market, these top gems can sell for thousands depending on the player pedigree and card design desirability among collectors.

During the peak speculative market boom of the late 1980s and 1990s, hundreds or even thousands of 1979 Topps cards were sent to PSA for grading each month from collectors hoping to cash in. The longterm damage done by improper storage, circulation through the hands of young fans at the time and general wear and tear meant very few examples could achieve the coveted Mint grades. Population reports reflect how difficult it is to find high grade vintage cards compared to modern issues.

In addition to individual card prices tied to certain Hall of Famers or stars, there is also value in complete PSA sets for 1979 Topps. Sellers will piece together all the base cards graded together to create a true “gem” or “mint” series. These can command tens of thousands depending on condition due to the difficulty in acquiring every card with consistent high grades. An about uncirculated complete set in PSA 8s which captures all the key stars and rookies still holds value in the thousands currently.

For collectors, PSA is also a solid choice for pedigree and authentication purposes. Their rigorous standards and multi-point inspection give confidence for condition sensitive vintage and help reassure buyers of authenticity. The slabbing also protects valuable gems longterm and makes high grade examples much easier to show off, transport or trade compared to loose raw cards. The drawbacks are mainly the cost of grading and time waiting compared to faster bulk grading services, but the price differential is often justified by potential resale premiums.

The 1979 Topps set remains a benchmark among 1970s issues for both its photography and the star players featured within. PSA population data highlights the challenge still present today in finding pristine examples that earned top Gem Mint 10 status. Using PSA certification makes the most sense for condition sensitive vintage rarities or full complete sets given the assurance provided around grade, authenticity and longterm preservation in plastic. Prices will likely continue rising over time for recognizable Hall of Fame rookie cards and stars secured within that coveted black label slab.

1979 TOPPS BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the vintage era of the 1970s. While it may not have the star power of some other years, the ’79 Topps set featured several highly sought after rookie cards and key players that make it a favorite among collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top cards from the 1979 Topps set.

One of the most valuable rookie cards from the 1979 set is Nolan Ryan’s last Topps rookie card issued while with the California Angels (Ryan was traded to the Houston Astros in late 1979). In top-rated condition, the Ryan rookie can fetch thousands of dollars. Even well-worn copies still demand over $100 due to his Hall of Fame career and status as one of the greatest power pitchers in MLB history. Another highly valued rookie is Cal Ripken Jr’s first Bowman card which was also included in the 1979 Topps set. Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s iconic record for consecutive games played. Near-mint copies of his rookie often sell for well over $1000.

The 1979 Topps set also featured rookie cards for other stars including Willie Aikens, Dave Kingman, Donnie Moore, and Steve Rogers. While not as expensive as the Ryan or Ripken rookies, these players all had solid MLB careers and their rookie cards remain popular holdovers from the vintage era. The ’79 issue also featured the last Topps cards as Dodgers for Davey Lopes and Bill Russell, both key members of Los Angeles’ pitching-dominant teams in the late 70s. Their stats on these final Dodgers cards make them recognizable to collectors.

Two of the most iconic players of the late 1970s are featured prominently in the 1979 Topps set – George Brett and Nolan Ryan. Brett’s card #87 depicts him during his prime years with the Kansas City Royals. The third baseman won the AL batting title in 1976, 1977, and 1980 giving him a highly acclaimed reputation. His 1979 Topps card remains one of the most visually popular and is still attainable for a modest price, even in top-rated condition. Nolan Ryan’s card #177 shows “The Ryan Express” firing a 100+ mph fastball for the California Angels. Ryan went 15-13 with 313 strikeouts in 1979 continuing his domination for the Angels before being traded to the Astros. Near-mint copies of this classic Ryan card can reach over $150 due to his legendary pitching career.

Two other Hall of Fame players with highly recognizable 1979 Topps cards are Robin Yount and Mike Schmidt. Yount’s card #433 features the young Milwaukee Brewers’ shortstop who would go on to have a spectacular career winning MVPs in 1982 and 1989. Schmidt’s imposing card #612 depicts the fearsome Phillies’ slugger during his prime years in Philly. Schmidt took home MVP honors in 1980, 1981, and 1986 establishing himself as arguably the best third baseman in baseball history. Both of these HOFers have 1979 Topps cards that are still relatively affordable and hold value due to their fame.

Another MVP winner featured prominently is Keith Hernandez with his 1979 Topps St. Louis Cardinals card #223. While primarily known for his time with the 1980s Mets’ championship teams, Hernandez was a leader for the Cardinals in the late 70s as well. His MVP season came in 1979 when he posted a .344 batting average along with 110 RBIs. This recognizable card from his award-winning year remains a notable one in the set. Fellow ’79 MVP winner Don Baylor is also highlighted with his Angels card #236 performing at an All-Star level during his career years spent mainly with California and Colorado.

While the 1979 Topps set may not have the true “rookie phenoms” or “megastars” of some other years, it does feature the last or early career cards of many all-time great players including Ryan, Ripken, Brett, Schmidt, Yount, Hernandez, and Baylor. Low-print vintage cards like the Ryan and Ripken rookies hold incredible value, but most iconic cards from the ’79 set can still be obtained. Collectors enjoy finding these pieces of 70s MLB history that transported a young generation of fans before the coming decade of steroids and free agency forever changed the game.

HIGHEST VALUE 1979 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. While it may not be the most valuable set overall, there are definitely some extremely rare and pricey individual cards from that year that collectors covet. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the 1979 Topps cards that carry the highest values in the market today.

The card that consistently fetches the most money at auction is the #336 Nolan Ryan rookie card. As one of the most legendary pitchers of all-time, Ryan’s rookie is arguably the single most desirable in the entire set. In pristine mint condition, this card has sold for over $25,000. Even well-centered examples in near mint to mint condition often trade hands for $5,000+. What makes it so special is that it captures Ryan in his first year in the majors with the California Angels at the very beginning of his Hall of Fame career.

Another Angels star with a highly valued rookie is Rod Carew on card #77. Similar to Ryan, Carew put together an outstanding career that led to a plaque in Cooperstown. In high grade, his ’79 Topps rookie has reached upwards of $15,000. Most Carew rookies change hands for $2,000-$5,000 depending on centering and surface quality. He won 7 batting titles during his career and was the catalyst for Minnesota’s 1987 World Series championship team.

Two of the game’s all-time home run kings also have prized rookie cards in this set – Mike Schmidt (#97) and Dave Kingman (#296). Schmidt slugged 548 career dingers largely with the Phillies and took home 3 MVP awards. A pristine Schmidt rookie could be worth over $10,000. Kingman on the other hand was a true home run or strikeout machine. He led the NL in homers in 1975 and 1976. High-end examples of his rookie have topped $7,500 in value.

A more unexpected costly card is Oakland A’s reliever Grant Jackson on #496. Why is his so expensive? Simply because it is one of the scarcest in the entire set. Jackson only appeared in 49 games over 3 seasons in the bigs, making his card among the lowest printed. In flawless condition it has cracked $4,000. The rarity outweighs his lack of accolades as a player.

Two other low-print stars with hefty price tags are Dodger ace Don Sutton on #53 and Phillies slugger Greg Luzinski on #344. Sutton racked up over 3,000 strikeouts and is currently fifth all-time in wins. A mint Sutton rookie brings over $3,500. “The Bull” Luzinski swatted over 300 career home runs and made an All-Star team. Top-graded copies of his card exceed $3,000 as well.

For football fans, there are high dollar football cards of soon-to-be NFL stars Joe Montana (#126) and Dan Fouts (#509). Montana quarterbacked the 49ers to multiple Super Bowl victories. A pristine Montana rookie from ’79 Topps is worth $2,500-3,000. Fouts was a prolific passer for the Chargers. His best conditioned rookie sees values reach $2,000.

Speaking of star quarterbacks, the Dallas Cowboys had a fledgling one on their roster in 1979 named Danny White (#283). White earned a Pro Bowl nod and won a Super Bowl ring late in his career backing up Roger Staubach. Even though he played mostly backup as a rookie, his card is very scarce in top shape. Graded mint examples have brought nearly $2,000 each.

Rarity seems to play a significant role in the valuations of some 1979 Topps cards despite the players themselves not being true Hall of Famers. Houston outfielder Cesar Cedeno’s #293 rookie has reached $1,800 in top condition due to its limited print run. Montreal Expos reliever Woodie Fryman’s #501 is also fairly scarce. Pristine samples have sold for around $1,500 before. Their lack of superstar careers is outweighed by the rarity and condition of these particular cards.

While flagship stars like Nolan Ryan and Mike Schmidt reign at the summit, there are still many other desirable, valuable cards nestled throughout the 1979 Topps set beyond just rookies. The combination of all-time great players, scarce low-number issues, and true gem Mint samples that have survived 40+ years all contribute to collector demand and importance. For set builders and investors, high grade 1979s represent a smart vintage basketball pickup.