Tag Archives: 1986

1986 NEGRO LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS

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The release of the 1986 Negro League Baseball Cards was a monumental event for baseball card collectors and historians alike. Issued by the Topps Company, the 1986 set featured over 250 cards depicting players, teams, and notable figures from Black baseball leagues that operated in the United States prior to the integration of Major League Baseball in 1947.

The Negro Leagues produced some of the game’s greatest and most talented players, many of whom never received the widespread recognition they deserved due to the unfortunate and unethical color barrier that existed in professional baseball for much of the 20th century. Topps took the important step of commemorating the rich history and legacy of Negro League baseball through this extensive set of cards, which shed light on this overlooked era and helped preserve the stories and achievements of its stars.

Some key aspects that made the 1986 Negro League Baseball Cards so influential and valuable include:

Size of the set – With over 250 total cards, it was an ambitious undertaking for Topps to research and develop bios and images for so many players, teams, and personalities from the Negro Leagues. The extensive scope gave collectors a comprehensive overview of the various leagues that were part of Black baseball from the early 1900s through the 1940s.

High-quality photography – While photos were not always readily available for every subject, Topps went to great lengths to include the best images possible on each card. Many cards featured beautifully restored historic photographs that captured the style and pride of Negro League teams and players. This helped collectors physically connect to figures of the past.

Detailed bios – Each card contained factual information on a subject’s career highlights, statistics, and accomplishments. Lengthy write-ups helped tell their stories and shine a light on the immense talent that existed outside of the Majors due to racist policies. Facts, figures, and career paths were preserved.

Authentic designs – Rather than using a cookie-cutter approach, Topps designed each team’s cards to resemble the style of their actual uniforms from that era. Jerseys, caps, and visual motifs transported collectors back in time. Teams like the Homestead Grays and Kansas City Monarchs really popped off the card stock.

Rarity and high values – A set of this size from Topps on such a specialized topic was unprecedented. While a large print run was made compared to modern issues, mint condition examples still carry substantial worth today due to the cards’ historical and research value. Graded 10 examples can reach prices above $1,000 USD.

Some of the most coveted and expensive cards from the 1986 set include:

Josh Gibson (#45) – Perhaps the greatest power hitter in Negro League history. Pictures of “The Black Babe Ruth” are exceedingly rare.

Smokey Joe Williams (#207) – One of the best pitchers to never play in the Majors. His electric arm generated incredible heat.

Buck O’Neil (#5) – A premier first baseman and manager who became an ambassador for Negro League baseball late in life.

Satchel Paige (#3) – The legendary ” ageless wonder” pitcher is one of the set’s biggest stars.

Ray Brown (#156) – A dominant pitcher whose success and statistics rivalled Major Leaguers like Lefty Grove.

Ted “Double Duty” Radcliffe (#168) – Performed the unique feat of pitching one game and playing the outfield in another on the same day.

1936-1938 Kansas City Monarchs Team (#190-192) – Widely considered the greatest dynasty in Negro League history, known for their perfect seasons.

While scarcity relates to demand, the 1986 set has proven invaluable in preserving Black baseball’s storied past for future generations. It introduced countless fans to heroic figures like Oscar Charleston, Judy Johnson, Cristóbal Torriente and more than deserved recognition outside the margins of history textbooks. The cards continue to be sources of research, education, and inspiration for all those seeking to learn baseball’s full story before integration. Topps took the first step in ensuring these pioneers would not be forgotten, solidifying the set’s significance within the hobby and beyond.

BASEBALL CARDS 1986 TOPPS COMPLETE SET

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable complete sets from the 1980s. Issued during a golden age of the hobby, the 1986 Topps set featured superstar players and remained popular with collectors for decades.

The 1986 set contains 792 total cards, with 702 individual player and manager cards along with various inserts. Some of the biggest stars of the day like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith are featured prominently in the set. Rookies included future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and Tom Glavine.

Topps’ photography and design remained clean and classic. The majority of cards feature individual headshots with team logos. Statistics like batting average and ERA are prominently displayed on the bottom. The iconic red, white, and blue color scheme is used throughout. Topps also included team cards, league leader cards, and All-Star cards to round out the checklist.

Collectors at the time snapped up packs and boxes eagerly looking for their favorite players or rookie cards. The 1986 set was one of the most popular releases of the decade. The high print run of over 1 billion cards meant finding a complete set was very achievable for most young collectors. It also means mint and gem mint examples are harder to find today.

While not quite as valuable as some of the sets from the 1950s, the 1986 Topps set remains a highly desirable complete set for collectors today. In top graded gem mint condition, a full factory set can sell for over $1000. Key rookie cards like Barry Larkin and Mark McGwire in the same grade can reach $100-200 individually.

It’s the true star cards that hold the most value. A mint condition Wade Boggs card may sell for $50-75. The same grade Roger Clemens could reach $150-200 given his iconic status. And a BGS/PSA 10 graded Rickey Henderson is easily a $500+ card. The superstars and key rookies are what really drive set completion and individual card prices.

Beyond the star power, the 1986 Topps set also gained notoriety for several unique error cards that are highly sought after. The “Cruz” error card, featuring a photo of a player named “Cruz” with no last name, is one of the most famous mistakes in the hobby. Only a handful are known to exist in mint condition and could sell for over $10,000.

The “Andy McGaffigan” error card is another major mistake. The card features a photo of journeyman pitcher Andy McGaffigan but incorrectly lists his stats as a first baseman. Just a few high-grade examples are known to exist. Other lesser-known errors also popped up, adding mystique and intrigue to the set.

When factoring in condition, the 1986 Topps set holds up remarkably well. The majority of the run were carefully handled and stored by collectors. As a result, finding complete sets in excellent centered near-mint or better condition is very achievable for a motivated buyer. This helps explain the set’s continued popularity and demand among vintage collectors.

Whether being assembled as a complete factory set or built individually, the 1986 Topps baseball card release remains a cornerstone of the vintage era. Featuring iconic photography, design, and the games biggest stars of the day, it has enduring nostalgia and collecting appeal. Key star cards can also provide strong returns for savvy investors when high grades are secured. The 1986 Topps set is certainly one of the best investments a collector can make to both complete a set and hold valuable vintage cardboard long-term.

The 1986 Topps baseball card set was one of the most important releases from the golden age of the hobby. With a massive print run, it was an accessible set for collectors at the time. It also featured legendary players, all-time rookies, and rare errors that make it a highly valuable and desirable complete set today when found in top condition. The 1986 Topps set is truly a vintage sports collecting landmark.

1986 BASEBALL CARDS

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1986 was a banner year for baseball cards with major stars on the rise and iconic rookie cards entering the hobby. The highlight of the 1986 set was the debut of rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds.

Clemens’ rookie card came during his breakout season with the Boston Red Sox where he won the American League Cy Young Award after going 24-4 with a 2.48 ERA and 238 strikeouts. The “Rocket” established himself as the ace of the Red Sox staff and one of the game’s most intimidating pitchers. His 1986 Topps rookie card is one of the most coveted and expensive cards from the 1980s, routinely fetching thousands of dollars in high grades.

Like Clemens, Bonds also exploded onto the scene in 1986 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Though he only hit .223 with 17 home runs and 47 RBI in his rookie campaign, scouts could see his immense talent and strength. Bonds’ rookie card from 1986 Fleer documented the beginning of what would become one of the most decorated careers in baseball history. Over the next two decades, Bonds shattered record after record on his way to being widely considered one of the greatest players ever.

1986 also saw the debut of other future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz on their respective rookie cards. Glavine and Maddux in particular went on to dominate pitching for over two decades, winning numerous Cy Young Awards and helping the Atlanta Braves dynasty of the 1990s that won 14 straight division titles. Their rookie cards, especially for the uber-dominant Glavine and Maddux, are desirable in the hobby.

Some other notable rookies who debuted in 1986included Rafael Palmeiro,Will Clark, and Toby Harrah. All had solid MLB careers but withoutthe superstardom of Clemens, Bonds, Glavine, or Maddux. Still, their rookie cardsremain popular chase pieces forcompletionists. 1986 also sawmore established youngstars likeWade Boggs,Ozzie Smith, andKirbyPuckett continuetheir ascent intothehobby consciousnessthrough stellar performances and nationally distributed basebalcards.

The flagship 1986 Topps set totaled 792 cards as was standard for the decade. Topps continued including prolific players from bothleagues in their base sets at theheight of the Cold War soccer rivalrybetweenEast and West. Withnostalgia for vintage designs, thebold 1986 Topps tradedraws collectors forits retro aesthetic. Thedesignand photography evokemid-1980sAmericana.

Other notable 1986releases were the colorfully illustrated Fleer, thephotography-drivenDonruss, and thepremium Traded setexclusive to hobby shops. Fleer stuckto their artisticsensibilities with whimsical renderingsandcreative poses. Donruss showcasedaction shotsandclean Stats on theback. The ’86 Tradedset with higher pricetags and rarerparallels introduced insertsof stars.

Of course, any discussion of 1986cardsmust mentiontheinfamous errorcardsthat slipped throughquality control atTopps. Among the most valuable mistakesarethe”FarmerFrancona” with hisname misspelled,the”WallyWall”without borders,and thememorable”WayneGretzky”errorshowing ahockey legendnot eventangentiallyrelated to MLB. These mistakes becomeinstantcollector favorites and fetchthousandseven gradedpoorly due purelytounequivocalscarcity.

As the1980s drew to a close, theeuphoria surrounding thehobby beganto simmer after an initial surgeof interestsparked by the 1975Topps error cardcrash. But1986remaineda highwatermark,capping adecade of growth andintroducingcornerstonesfor the nextgenerationof collectors with debuts byfuture Hall of Famers.Thirty-five years later,1986rookie cards ofClemens, Bonds,andothersstill enthrall enthusiasts asthe earliest tangible reminderoflegendarycareers.

The 1986 baseball card season stands out as one of the most significant in the modern history of the hobby. Rookie cards of future all-time greats like Clemens and Bonds entered the marketplace alongside other future Hall of Famers like Glavine and Maddux. Iconic errors also gained notoriety. While the frenzy of the 1980s box-breaking boom eventually cooled, 1986 cards persist in the collections and memories of devoted fans decades later. The stars, stories, and surprises of 1986 firmly cemented it as a banner year that left an indelible mark on the baseball card collecting world.

1986 TOPPS SMALL BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is a historic issue known for introducing the modern mini card format still used today. Prior to 1986, Topps baseball cards had maintained the standard 3.5 x 2.5 inch size that became popular in the 1950s. Faced with declining card sales through the 1980s, Topps made the bold move to significantly downsize card dimensions for the 1986 series in an effort to cut production costs.

The resulting 1986 Topps baseball cards measured just 2.5 x 3.5 inches, a full inch shorter in height compared to previous years. While a smaller size was necessitated by business realities, it proved highly controversial among collectors at the time. Shrinking the cards’ footprint by nearly 25% understandably upset longtime fans accustomed to the larger standard size cards. There were also concerns that information and photos on the smaller 1986 cards would be harder to see.

Reducing the physical card dimensions allowed Topps to print more on a sheet during production. This lowered per card expenses and helped Topps remain competitive against upstart brands entering the baseball card market. The miniature 1986 Topps size ultimately caught on with collectors and became the new norm, remaining the industry standard even today outside of special oversized issues. And for many younger collectors in the 1980s, the 1986 cards were their first experience with the hobby and so they considered the mini size traditional.

From a collector’s standpoint, the 1986 Topps set introduced several notable firsts. At 529 total cards, it was the largest Topps baseball release to that date. For the first time, wax factory set cards included stats and career highlights on the reverse. Glossy photo fronts also became the new standard going forward versus the previous matte finish. Roster and record turnovers resulted in many new faces as well, reflecting the ever-changing nature of Major League Baseball from year to year.

Some memorable rookie cards debuted in the 1986 Topps set. Most notably, slugging outfielder Barry Bonds made his first card appearance at the start of his breakout 12 home run season with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Other top prospects like Lenny Dykstra and Wally Joyner also appeared as rookies in 1986 Topps. Established young stars like Roger Clemens, Kirby Puckett, and Wade Boggs hit their athletic primes in the mid-1980s as well, being featured prominently in the 1986 issue.

Possibly the most iconic card from the 1986 Topps baseball series is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie. Widely considered one of if not the most desirable modern rookie card in existence, the sheer rarity of high grade Griffey rookies has pushed PSA/BGS 10 Gem Mint copies over the $100k price point at auction. Even well-worn copies still trade hands for thousands due to Griffey’s legendary playing career and status as a fan favorite. His 1986 Topps RC is undoubtedly the crown jewel pull for collectors to this day.

Various special sets and promotional issues were also released to complement the 1986 Topps base set. Insert cards spotlighted Topps All-Star Rookies and the T205 tobacco card reprint design. Miniature card sets in vending machines targeted younger collectors. International distribuon included English back variations. And fans could earn cards through the Topps Tracers mail-in offer in store displays.

While smaller in dimensions than previous decades, the 1986 Topps baseball cards truly marked the ‘turning point’ when the modern mini card format was established. Sales stabilized for Topps. But more importantly, a whole new generation was introduced to the vintage hobby through these iconic 1980s issues. Even after 35 years, the flashy 1986 designs and noteworthy rookie debuts continue to entice collectors and drive demand in the marketplace. The 1986 Topps baseball card set undeniably left an indelible mark on the entire sportscard industry.

1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS OF VALUE

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the 1980s. With 792 total cards released that year, there are several key rookies and short printed cards that can fetch big money for collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1986 Topps baseball cards collectors should be on the hunt for.

Perhaps the most notable rookie card from the 1986 set is that of Hall of Famer Barry Bonds. As the prized rookie card of one of the game’s all-time greatest power hitters, the Barry Bonds rookie is highly sought after. In top gem mint condition, the Bonds rookie has sold for over $25,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for $1,000 or more.

Another highly valuable rookie is that of future 500 home run club member Fred McGriff. McGriff went on to have a very productive career, but his rookie card saw low production numbers that kept it scarce for collectors. PSA 10 graded examples have sold for as much as $4,000, with more commonly graded copies still fetching $100-300 even in worn condition.

Roberto Alomar’s rookie also holds significant value due to his Hall of Fame career. Like McGriff, Alomar’s 1986 card was not widely distributed, making high grade copies harder to come by. Mint condition Alomar rookies in the $800-1,000 range are very attainable, with true gem mint PSA 10’s selling above $2,000. Alomar would go on to be considered one of the greatest second basemen of all-time.

Other notable rookies include future 20-game winners Andy Benes, Mark Langston, and Bill Krueger. These players did not quite achieve the stardom of Bonds, McGriff, or Alomar long term but their 1986 rookie cards still hold appeal as the first issues featuring up and coming young talent. Even well-worn near complete copies can sell in the $50-100 range.

In addition to star rookies, the 1986 Topps set features several short printed veteran cards that are highly conditioned sensitive. Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt’s base card is one example – true mint PSA 10 graded Schmidt’s can sell for over $500 due to their scarcity. Fellow Phillies star and HoF pitcher Steve Carlton also has a valuable short print base card reaching the $200-300 sales range in top grades.

Other position players like Gary Carter, Dave Parker, Eddie Murray, and Andre Dawson all featured short printed base cards in 1986 Topps as well that command $100-250 in pristine condition. The risk with these cards is one small flaw can drastically cut their value. Collectors must be very careful to only purchase visually flawless examples to maximize returns.

Beyond base cards, the 1986 Topps Traded and Update issues also featured additional cards that boosted certain players’ values. The Update set highlighted the rookie debut of slugger Mark McGwire, which remains his rarest rookie card issue. Other 1986 rookies like Wally Joyner and Mike Harkey also got Update cards uncommon to their base sets.

Traded cards awarded stars like slugger Darryl Strawberry, pitcher Dwight Gooden, slugger Tony Perez and catcher Lance Parrish with rarer parallel issues. These parallel cards also saw low print runs and have gained collector interest competitive with the base set short prints over the years. High grade Traded and Update key rookie and veteran cards routinely sell for $50-150 based on condition.

The 1986 Topps baseball card set maintains a strong collector appeal nearly 40 years later thanks to the elite rookie class headlined by Bonds, McGriff and Alomar. While their cards escalate in value every year, relatively affordable copies of even B-list players from this classic 1980s issue can still be found with diligent collecting and shopping. For vintage collectors, 1986 Topps represents a special time in the hobby, and a great set to target affordable yet valuable cards still within reach.

1986 FLEER MINI BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1986 Fleer Mini Baseball card set was one of the more unique baseball card issues of the 1980s. Coming in at just under 2 inches by 1.25 inches, the mini cards stood out from the standard size issues of the time. While the novelty mini size led to mixed reviews upon release, the 1986 Fleer Minis have developed a strong following among collectors in recent years. Let’s take a closer look at the set and explore what cards from the 1986 Fleer Mini issue are most valuable today.

The 1986 Fleer Mini set featured 207 cards and included stars from both the American and National Leagues. Notable rookies in the set included Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Roger Clemens. The mini size allowed Fleer to fit over 200 players on a sheet of cardboard, giving collectors more content for their money compared to a typical issue. The tiny images and statistics proved difficult for some to read or appreciate. The front of each card featured a zoomed-in headshot photo with the player’s name and team directly below. Statistics were moved to the back along with career highlights.

Production numbers for the 1986 Fleer Minis were high given the buzz around mini cards at the time. Even so, the novelty size means many of these cards did not withstand the test of time as well as standard issues. Condition is therefore very important when valuing 1986 Fleer Mini cards today. Near mint to gem mint examples fetch the highest prices. Heavily played cards in poor condition are commonly found for just a few dollars. Top stars and key rookie cards have shown the most resilience, still attracting hobby interest and demand from collectors decades later.

Let’s examine some of the most valuable 1986 Fleer Mini cards on the modern market:

Barry Bonds rookie card – As one of the greatest players of all time, Barry Bonds’ rookie is a true holy grail for collectors. High grade PSA/BGS gem mint 10 examples have sold for over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies still demand $500+ given his legendary career.

Roger Clemens rookie card – One of the most decorated pitchers of the modern era, Clemens’ rookie is another blue chip 1986 mini. Near mint examples are worth $300-500 despite some print lines issues. Gems can reach $1,000-2,000.

Mark McGwire rookie card – McGwire’s sensational rookie campaign and record-breaking home run chase make his mini rookie a hot commodity. Near mint copies sell for $150-300 depending on centering. Top-graded gem mint 10s have reached into four figures.

Ozzie Smith card – Known as the Wizard for his glittering defensive skills, Smith is a fan favorite. His mini is valued near $75-150 in NM-MT condition due to sustained hobby interest.

Don Mattingly card – The 1984 AL MVP was one of the most dominant hitters of the late 80s. High grades of his mini move for $50-100 based on his iconic Yankee status.

Dwight Gooden card – During his 1985 Cy Young season, Gooden was arguably the best pitcher in baseball. His mini often sells for $40-75 due to his stardom in the 1980s Mets glory years.

Eric Davis card – Davis’ short but spectacular career produced monster stats. Fueling intrigue as one of the set’s biggest “what if” players, his mini has recently risen to $30-50 range.

Rookie Pitchers – Beyond Clemens, Danny Jackson, John Farrell, and Shane Rawley rookie minis each obtain $15-30 values when centered and well preserved.

While not matching flagship sets in surface value, 1986 Fleer Mini cards have developed an enthusiastic niche collector base in recent years. When high quality copies of the set’s premier rookies surface, they continue to excite bidding wars among aficionados of the mini card format. For collectors interested in unique pieces of baseball history from the 1980s boom, this tiny but information-packed issue remains a fun exploration. With icons like Bonds, McGwire, and Clemens represented, the 1986 Fleer Minis ensure this fun novelty set maintains relevancy for years to come.

1986 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS UPDATE

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The 1986 Fleer baseball card update is considered one of the most iconic and valuable insert sets in the history of the hobby. While the main 1986 Fleer set featured the standard player cards, the update set released midway through the season included several new rookie cards that have gone on to achieve legendary status among collectors.

Fleer had lost the exclusive rights to produce Topps baseball cards starting in 1986, so they took a risk by producing this update set in hopes of capitalizing on any new players or performances that occurred after the initial series was released. It ended up paying off in a huge way and forever changed the baseball card collecting landscape.

The biggest star of the update set was undoubtedly the rookie card of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder José Canseco. Canseco had an incredible rookie season in 1986 where he led the American League in home runs with 33, becoming the first rookie ever to claim the home run title. His powerful play immediately made him one of the most exciting young stars in baseball.

Canseco’s rookie card from the 1986 Fleer update is one of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball cards ever produced. It features him swinging a bat with his muscular physique on full display. The card captured lightning in a bottle by commemorating Canseco’s historic rookie campaign while it was still unfolding. Over the decades, it has become the gold standard for desirable rookie cards.

In addition to Canseco, the 1986 Fleer update also included the debut cards of several other impactful rookies, like New York Mets pitcher Dwight Gooden and Cincinnati Reds outfielder Kal Daniels. Gooden, nicknamed “Doc,” had won the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1985 while leading the league in strikeouts. His card from the update set is one of the most sought after Gooden rookies.

Kal Daniels had a short but productive MLB career, playing most notably for the Reds from 1986-1988. His rookie card from the 1986 Fleer update stands out for being one of the scarcest issues from the set, making it a true key card for collectors looking to complete the roster. With only a handful believed to exist in high grade, it can sell for thousands of dollars.

In addition to the star rookies, the 1986 Fleer update also featured new cards for veterans who were enjoying breakout seasons or achieving career milestones. For example, it included the first San Diego Padres card for legendary slugger Tony Gwynn after he was traded from the San Diego Padres during the 1985-86 offseason. Gwynn would go on to have one of the best seasons of his Hall of Fame career in 1986.

Another notable veteran inclusion was Atlanta Braves pitcher Tom Glavine, who was in the midst of his first full major league season in 1986. Glavine went on to become a long-time Braves ace and two-time Cy Young Award winner, making his rookie season card from the 1986 Fleer update highly valuable today.

Beyond the new player additions, the 1986 Fleer update also featured special insert cards to commemorate some of that year’s biggest performances and milestones. This included a “300th Home Run” card for Detroit Tigers legend Al Kaline, who joined the exclusive club on September 24, 1986. Other milestone cards paid tribute to Nolan Ryan’s 5000th strikeout and Steve Carlton’s 3000th strikeout.

The 1986 Fleer update was an instant success and showed the potential of mid-season inserts to capitalize on the excitement of an ongoing baseball season. It helped Fleer gain relevance against the monopoly of Topps while introducing legendary rookie cards and commemorating historic achievements. Sets like these helped evolve the baseball card industry by giving collectors reasons to continue buying packs throughout the year.

To this day, the 1986 Fleer update remains one of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball card sets ever made. Its star rookies like José Canseco and Dwight Gooden have become touchstones of the hobby. Even relatively obscure cards hold significant collector interest and value due to their association with this legendary release. The 1986 Fleer update was truly ahead of its time and changed the baseball card collecting world forever.

EBAY 1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set was issued during a transitional time in the hobby. While the 1980s boom was starting to fade, interest in collecting cards was still strong. The 1986 Topps set is considered by many to be the last truly “classic” set before the explosion of inserts, parallels and oddball promotions of the modern era.

Topps released their flagship baseball card set in 1986 featuring 660 total cards as was standard for the time. The design was a cleaner and simpler take on their classic look from the late 70s/early 80s. The photo size was increased slightly and backgrounds were plain white or off-white. Player names, positions and team logos were presented in a basic bold font at the bottom. Overall it had a classic, no-frills aesthetic that appealed to collectors both young and old.

Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and John Smoltz were included in the base set, though none would realize their full potential until later in their careers. More established young stars like Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden and Ozzie Smith also had their rookie cards in 1981 or 1982 issues so they were entering their prime years in 1986 Topps.

Veteran superstars of the era like Mike Schmidt, George Brett and Nolan Ryan continued to be featured prominently as well. The 1986 set also marked the last cards produced for legends like Reggie Jackson and Steve Carlton before their retirements. Due to the star power and historical significance, 1986 Topps cards have remained popular with collectors to this day.

When it was released in 1986, a wax box of 1986 Topps baseball cards retailed around $2-3. Today, unopened wax boxes in sealed near-mint condition can sell for over $1,000 depending on the seller. Loose in-pack mint singles range from around 50 cents for common players up to $10-20 for the biggest stars. Higher-grade gem mint 10 rookies of players like Maddux can reach $100-200 each.

The 1986 Topps set is also notable for several key rookie variations that are highly sought after by collectors. The most famous is the Greg Maddux rookie card with a missing “519” on the uniform number. Only approximately 100 of these rare errors were produced, making an ungraded example worth $1,000-2,000 today. Another coveted rookie variation is the Tom Glavine card with an extra “L” in his last name on the front. These misprints can sell for $500-1000 in top condition.

While not true short prints, the rookie cards of Ozzie Canseco (Jose’s brother), David Nied and Oddibe McDowell are considered much tougher pulls than other rookies in the base set. Higher grade examples of these cards in the $50-150 range today. The 1986 Topps set also featured the final cards for legends like Carl Yastrzemski, Tom Seaver, and Jim Palmer among others, making their commons at least $5-10 cards.

In the decades since its release, the 1986 Topps set has grown in esteem as collectors look back fondly on the “golden age” of the hobby in the 1980s. Prices have risen steadily for stars of the era like Gooden, Clemens, Brett and Schmidt among many others. Flagship rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz are icons of the set as well. With strong vintage appeal, iconic rookie cards and historical significance, 1986 Topps remains one of the most beloved issues in the hobby even 35 years later. Its simple, classic design has stood the test of time and prices reflect the set’s enduring popularity.

The 1986 Topps baseball card set was the last true “vintage” issue before the modern era took hold. Featuring superstar players and Hall of Fame rookies against a clean, understated design, it captured the sport at a pivotal moment. Errors and variations like the Maddux and Glavine misprints add intrigue as well. Prices have risen steadily as collectors appreciate 1986 Topps as the bridge between the boom of the early 80s and the insert-laden modern age. The set remains a cornerstone of the hobby due to its iconic players, historical context and simply beautiful classic aesthetic.

1986 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS BOX

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1986 was a memorable year for baseball cards as it marked the return of Fleer to the baseball card market after a 21-year hiatus. While Topps had been the sole issuer of annual baseball cards since 1964, Fleer’s re-entry provided exciting competition and innovative designs that collectors still appreciate today.

The 1986 Fleer set totals 330 cards and includes rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz. Collectors were also excited by Fleer’s new visual sensibilities that broke from Topps’ traditional designs. Gone were the team logo borders, replaced by more creative background designs in team colors or graphical patterns. Fleer also added photography to cards for the first time since 1964.

As the exclusive license holder, Topps had grown complacent with their de facto monopoly. Collectors yearned for freshness and Fleer delivered. Standout visual touches in 1986 included team name plates at the bottom, futuristic fonts for player names, and a creative color palette. The photography paired well with these bold graphics to make each card pop on the collector’s shelves compared to Topps’ simpler design language.

Fleer also experimented with new card shapes and sizes in 1986. In addition to the traditional 3.5″ x 2.5″ format, Fleer introduced “Diamond Kings” insert cards that were vertically oriented rectangles. These highlighted superstar players on a brilliant cut diamond-patterned background in their team colors. Other innovative subsets included “Fleer All-Stars,” team leaders, rookie all-stars, and league leaders – the latter two highlighting young stars.

While the 1986 set lacked major star power on the level of a Mike Schmidt or Reggie Jackson rookie, collectors were enthralled by the young talent featured. Along with rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, there were also young rising stars like Will Clark, Barry Larkin, and Mark McGwire among others. Collectors snatched up these rookies and prospects excited about their future potential.

Another key factor driving excitement for 1986 Fleer was the chase for scarce short prints and missing “jersey” parallels. Only a handful of each variation were produced, making them highly coveted prizes for set builders. Much mystery surrounded these variations, spurring collector interest in buying unopened packs and boxes to uncover the elusive chase cards within.

Card shop shelves filled with 1986 Fleer boxes featuring the bold navy blue and orange color scheme. While a full box contained 14 packs with 11 cards each for a total of 154 cards, savvy collectors knew opening multiple boxes maximized their odds of obtaining rare chase cards. This drove box sales for vendors as collectors aimed to bust as much fresh Fleer product as possible.

As the first new baseball card issuer in over 20 years, Fleer’s success with collectors and retailers in 1986 paved the way for continued competition going forward. Their creative designs, photography, and coveted parallels sparked renewed joy and excitement in the hobby at a time when Topps had grown stale with their monopoly. Collectors delighted in showing off complete sets and chase cards from 1986 Fleer for years after its release.

While Topps maintained majority market share due to their exclusive rights, 1986 Fleer reignited passion among collectors and jumpstarted a new era of competition with fascinating subsets, new card shapes, and visual pizazz missing from previous offerings. After initially flying under the radar compared to the star-studded ’84 Donruss set, 1986 Fleer cards earned their place as one of the most beloved issues in hobby history and a landmark year marking Fleer’s triumphant return to baseball cards. Its innovative spirit still influences modern card designs today.

The 1986 Fleer baseball card set brought fresh competition and visual creativity back to the hobby after years of stagnation from Topps. Rookie stars, diverse designs, and coveted parallels thrilled collectors and reinvigorated the market. Its bold colors, creative shapes, and photography changed collectors’ expectations and paved the way for an ongoing battle between issuers that elevated the entire industry. For these reasons, the 1986 Fleer release remains a landmark event in the history of baseball cards.

1986 ALL STAR GAME BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Major League Baseball All-Star Game was held on July 15th at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. It marked a historic occasion as it was the 50th anniversary of the first All-Star Game held in 1933 at Comiskey Park in Chicago. To commemorate the special occasion, Topps released an extra large 396 card baseball card set for the 1986 All-Star Game.

The 1986 All-Star Game set featured cards of all the players selected to the American League and National League rosters for the Midsummer Classic, along with manager cards of the AL’s Dick Howser of the Kansas City Royals and NL’s Whitey Herzog of the St. Louis Cardinals. There were cards for the umpires and stadium personnel who worked the game. An exciting new inclusion for 1986 were “Future Star” cards spotlighting some of the up-and-coming rookie and prospect talent in baseball that season like Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, and Will Clark.

Topps paid special attention to detail for the 1986 set to honor the golden anniversary. The vivid color photographs popped dramatically against an extra thick white border encompassing each card. Prominently displayed at the bottom was a banner declaring “50th Anniversary All-Star Game” along with the Astrodome logo and date of the game. The stat lines and write-ups on the back of the cards provided a snapshot of each player’s accomplishments leading up to the midseason classic.

Distribution of the 1986 set was through the traditional wax packing method in both series one and series two forms. Series one packs from early in the production run have the player names listed down the left side of the back while series two switches this to the right side. Among the highly sought after cards were #1 Nolan Ryan, #2 Wade Boggs, #7 Roger Clemens, #14 Jose Canseco in his rookie All-Star card, and #75 Kirk Gibson’s dramatic home run in the 1984 World Series was featured on his card. Gibson’s home run off Goose Gossage with the LA Dodgers trailing the Detroit Tigers 1-0 in the bottom of the 9th inning of Game 5 clinched the championship for LA.

The 1986 All-Star Game itself was an exciting pitcher’s duel. AL starter Jimmy Key of the Toronto Blue Jays held the NL to just one run over three innings of work. NL starter Bob Knepper of the Houston Astros went 2 2/3 innings allowing only one run. The game went to the bottom of the 9th tied 1-1 before the NL pushed across the winning run on a Sacrifice Fly by Nick Esasky of the Cincinnati Reds off Bill Caudill of the Seattle Mariners. AL outfielder Dave Henderson of the Boston Red Sox was awarded MVP honors after coming off the bench to deliver a pinch-hit single and score the tying run.

After the contest, baseball fans rushed to stores and sportcard shows to try and pull the coveted 1986 All-Star Game cards from packs. Many players featured went on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and Rickey Henderson who all appeared in multiple Midsummer Classics after 1986. Other notable young talents showcased like Mark McGwire, Will Clark, and Barry Larkin became All-Star staples and winners throughout the late 80s and 90s. Finding the cards of these future stars in near perfect condition now commands premium prices from collectors decades later.

For students of baseball card history, the 1986 All-Star Game issue is seen as one of the most visually impressive and historically significant special sets ever produced by Topps. Celebrating 50 years of the sport’s premier exhibition, Topps spared no expense with the oversized card stock, thick borders, and details commemorating the anniversary. Its subject matter captured a who’s who of baseball at the time including future Hall of Famers and budding young players. Despite massive production, high-grade copies remain elusive for collectors to this day. The 1986 offering continues to stand as a testament to both the All-Star Game’s rich tradition and Topps’ excellence in crafting memorable, iconic trading cards chronicling America’s pastime.