Tag Archives: 1999

1999 UD CHOICE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1999 Upper Deck Choice baseball card set was released late in the 1998 baseball season and featured some of the biggest stars and top rookies from that year. The set had 216 total cards and featured a mixture of player cards along with various insert sets. Some of the top stars featured in the base set included Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Greg Maddux, Ken Griffey Jr., and Tony Gwynn. The biggest draw for collectors was the chance to pull rookie cards of talented young players who were just starting to make a name for themselves in the big leagues such as Carlos Beltran, Nomar Garciaparra, Todd Helton, Vladimir Guerrero, and Derek Jeter.

The 1998 baseball season was one of the most exciting and record-breaking seasons in MLB history as Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa dueled down the stretch in a home run race for the ages. McGwire would ultimately break Roger Maris’s single season home run record, smashing 70 home runs. Meanwhile, Sosa would finish second with 66 home runs of his own. Their home run chase captivated the nation and brought new attention and fans to the sport of baseball. As a result, the 1999 Upper Deck Choice set was one of the hottest and most desired baseball card releases during the collecting boom of the late 90s.

The base set featured 216 total cards with each card having an image size of 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches. The photography and card designs were top notch for the late 90s era. For the biggest star players, Upper Deck would feature multiple cards showing them in different poses or actions shots. For example, Mark McGwire had 4 unique base cards showing him in various home run swings. Meanwhile, Sammy Sosa also had 4 distinct base cards. Rookies and less prominent players generally had only one base card dedicated to them. The card stock and quality was also a step above most other brands during this time period which added to the appeal for collectors.

In addition to the base set, the 1999 Upper Deck Choice release contained several popular and valuable insert sets. The ‘Path to 69’ insert set featured 17 cards honoring Mark McGwire’s chase for the single season home run record. Each card in the set depicted McGwire hitting a different home run on his quest to break the record. Notable rookie cards could be found in the ‘Keeper of the Game’ insert set including Derek Jeter, Vladimir Guerrero, and Nomar Garciaparra. Upper Deck also included ‘Pitchers of the Game’, ‘Diamond Kings’, and ‘Golden Moments’ insert sets highlighting different players and their career achievements.

The most coveted and valuable insert set found in 1999 Upper Deck Choice packs was the ‘Hall of Famers Authenticated’ set. This extremely rare 8-card parallel featured swatches of game-used memorabilia authenticated by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Each card paired a legendary hall of famer with a current MLB star and contained pieces of a game-used jersey or cap directly from the hall of famer’s career. Examples included Mike Piazza patched with Mickey Mantle and Sammy Sosa paired with Ernie Banks. The rarity and inclusion of authenticated HOF memorabilia made these inserts among the crown jewels for any serious baseball card collector during the late 90s boom.

In terms of value, several key rookie cards from the 1999 Upper Deck Choice set have stood the test of time and increased tremendously in worth. Derek Jeter’s rookie remains one of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball cards ever produced. High grade Jeter rookies in PSA 10 condition have sold for over $400,000 at auction. Other top rookie cards like Carlos Beltran, Nomar Garciaparra, and Vladimir Guerrero also remain highly sought after and valuable. Key autographed and memorabilia rookie cards can fetch five figures as well. Many of the ‘Hall of Famers Authenticated’ inserts now sell for well over $10,000 each as well. The 1999 Upper Deck Choice set endures as one of the most popular and important flagship baseball card releases from the peak of the collecting boom era. Its star power, memorable rookie class, and valuable inserts have cemented its place in card collecting history.

The 1999 Upper Deck Choice baseball card set perfectly captured the excitement and magic of MLB’s record breaking 1998 season. Featuring the superstar performers of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa along with future Hall of Famers and all-time great rookies like Jeter, Beltran, and Guerrero, the set had something to excite collectors both young and old. Creative insert sets also added chase and memorabilia aspects that increased fan interest. Thanks to talented photography, durable construction, and highly coveted rookie cards, the 1999 UD Choice set remains a benchmark release to this day. Its enduring popularity and collectability ensure it will be remembered as one of the true classics from the unforgettable late 90s era in the hobby.

1999 OMEGA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1999 Omega baseball card release was highly anticipated by collectors as it marked Omega’s 20th anniversary of producing baseball cards and included several special inserts to commemorate the occasion. Some of the top rookies from the 1998 season like Nomar Garciaparra, Troy Glaus, and Ben Grieve had breakout rookie campaigns and their rookie cards from the 1999 Omega set became highly desirable.

The main base set included commons ranging from #1 to #399 and featured all 30 MLB teams from the 1998 season. Design-wise, the cards had a simple black border around solid color team artwork in the background. Player names, positions, and teams were clearly printed at the bottom along with the card number. The photo size was slightly smaller compared to recent years but image quality was sharp as always. Some criticisms of the design included that it was a bit plain and lacked flavor compared to sets from rivals like Topps and Fleer.

One of the inserts unique to the 1999 Omega set was the ’20 Year Anniversary’ parallel which featured silver bordering and special anniversay team logos on each card back. These were scarce pulls at just one per hobby box on average. Other popular inserts that year included ‘Rookie Threads’ and ‘Signature Soiree.’ Rookie Threads showcased the top prospects from 1998 in posed studio shots wearing throwback team jerseys from different eras. These visually popped from the classic aesthetic. ‘Signature Soiree’ was an on-card autograph set featuring current stars who each signed around 1000 cards. Pulling a star autographed parallel like Ken Griffey Jr. or Mark McGwire became the holy grail for collectors.

In terms of chase cards, one of the most sought after inserts was the super-short print ‘Hall of Fame Duos’ set which paired current Hall of Famers together on the same card celebrating their careers. Only 100 of each were produced so securing one required luck or deep pocketbooks to scour the secondary market. Rookie cards for nominees like Nomar Garciaparra and Ben Grieve also gained popularity as both went on to have prolific MLB tenures. On the ex-player autograph front, signed cards for legends like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax proved valuable offensive additions for collectors.

Pack and box sales for the 1999 Omega baseball card release far surpassed company projections. While Topps and Fleer still commanded the lion’s share of the market, Omega stabilized as the clear #3 player and continued growing its collector base. The 20 anniversary inserts added novelty that kept the product feeling fresh all season long. Near the trade deadline, Omega also released minor updating sets to account for key player moves. This seasonality and reactiveness differentiated them in collectors’ eyes compared to the other brands who merely rereleased their opening day rosters.

On the resale market, full unopened wax boxes of 1999 Omega appreciated steadily through the late 90s/early 2000s as the brand gained prestige. Complete commons sets could often be built for under $100 but key rookie cards and chase inserts escalated quickly. While printed runs were considerably larger than sets from the 1980s, being that it was still the tail end of the Junk Wax Era, scarcer inserts maintained premium price tags relative to issue numbers. For example, signed cards for all-time greats like Hank Aaron routinely crossed the $1000 threshold. This opened the eyes of investors who saw sports memorabilia as a sound speculative commodity, hastening Omega’s mainstream arrival.

Through the late 2000s, the 1999 Omega set and especially its key rookie cards stabilized in aftermarket pricing relative to production quantities and player performance milestones. Nomar Garciaparra’s Rookie Card settled as one of the most expensive commons from the set after his stellar early career arc was sidelined by injuries. Conversely, cards like Ben Grieve whose promise wasn’t fully realized held steadier values. As many 90s star players entered retirement in the 2010s, collectors grew more nostalgic for Omega sets that captured their primes. Boxes that sat untouched for decades began cracking open again to reminisce of the players, designs, and industry during that transformative period for the card collecting hobby.

The 1999 Omega baseball card release was a noteworthy turning point that propelled the company towards the upper-tier of card manufacturers. Successful inserts catered to varied collector interests while sharp rookie cards lent future investment potential. Steady aftermarket appreciation reinforced Omega’s staying power among enthusiasts. Two decades later, it remains a celebrated set commemorating sports memorabilia’s exponential rise alongside many 90s superstars’ careers. For both nostalgic fans and savvy investors, select 1999 Omega pieces continue proving worthwhile speculative storeholds.

BEST 1999 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1999 Topps baseball card set was released at the tail end of one of the most exciting eras in baseball history. Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa had just completed their epic home run chase the previous season that saw McGwire break Roger Maris’ single season home run record. Baseball was as popular as ever and the 1999 Topps set captured many of the game’s biggest stars and memorable moments from that time period.

The design of the 1999 Topps cards featured a classic look that paid homage to sets from the 1970s and 1980s. The cards had a white border around the perimeter with the team logo prominently displayed at the top. Player photos took up most of the front of the card with stats and career highlights listed below. On the back, Topps provided an action shot of the player along with more in-depth stats and a short biography. The set totaled 792 cards and included base cards, rookie cards, stars, future Hall of Famers, and memorable inserts. Here’s a look at some of the best and most valuable cards from the 1999 Topps collection:

Ken Griffey Jr. (#1) – Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie card from the 1989 Upper Deck set is one of the most valuable trading cards ever printed. His 1999 Topps card pays tribute to his outstanding career up to that point playing for the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds. Highly sought after by collectors both for its subject and coveted low card number. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies have sold for over $1,000.

Chipper Jones (#2) – As the #2 overall pick in the 1990 draft, Jones was already well on his way to a Hall of Fame career by 1999 while starring for the Atlanta Braves. His imposing photo and stats made this one of the more visually striking rookie cards from the set. In high grade, it can fetch $300-$500 due to Jones’ legacy as one of the game’s all-time great third basemen.

Pedro Martinez (#3) – Coming off a season where he won the Cy Young Award and led the league in ERA, Martinez had established himself as the most dominant pitcher in baseball playing for the Boston Red Sox. His intimidating stare down at the camera on this card captures the fire and intensity he brought to the mound every fifth day. Highly coveted by collectors, especially in mint condition.

Ivan Rodriguez (#4) – “Pudge” Rodriguez was already a nine-time All-Star and winner of numerous Gold Gloves by 1999 as the premier catcher in the American League. He would go on to break the all-time record for putouts by a catcher and earn enshrinement in the Hall of Fame. His rookie card from this set is a key piece for any collector looking to build a complete Rodriguez collection.

Mark McGwire (#5) – Just a year after eclipsing Maris’ home run record, McGwire was at the peak of his powers as the most feared power hitter in the game playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. His iconic home run trot and mammoth blasts made him one of the most popular players in baseball during the late 90s. High demand has pushed PSA 10 copies of this card up near the $1,000 mark.

Sammy Sosa (#6) – As McGwire’s home run chasing foil in 1998, Sosa gave Chicago Cubs fans plenty to cheer about. He followed up his 66 home run season by belting 63 more dingers in 1999. His card captures the raw enthusiasm and exuberance that made him a fan favorite. Key card for any collector looking to document Sosa’s historic home run seasons.

Randy Johnson (#7) – The “Big Unit” was in the midst of one of the most dominant pitching stretches in MLB history with the Seattle Mariners in 1999. At 6-foot-10, he towered over hitters and struck out a jaw dropping 331 batters that season. His intimidating glare and massive stature made this card a standout in the set.

Greg Maddux (#8) – Arguably the best control pitcher of all-time, Maddux was a workhorse for the Atlanta Braves and won 4 consecutive Cy Young Awards from 1992-1995. By 1999, he had racked up over 200 career wins and was still performing at an elite level. A model of consistency on the field, his card is a key piece for any Braves or complete baseball collection.

Derek Jeter (#9) – As the shortstop and leader of the dynasty New York Yankees, Jeter was already a five-time All-Star and World Series champion by his sixth MLB season. His good looks, clutch hitting, and championship pedigree made him one of the most popular players in the game. A true “rookie” card as his first Topps issue of his MLB career.

Barry Bonds (#10) – In the midst of one of the most prolific offensive stretches in baseball history, Bonds was seemingly putting up MVP caliber numbers every season for the San Francisco Giants. He would go on to break the all-time home run record and his card from this era is a must-have for any collector looking to chronicle Bonds’ hallowed career.

The 1999 Topps set did an excellent job highlighting many of the game’s biggest stars and icons from that memorable late 90s era. Cards featuring players like Griffey, Jones, Martinez, Pudge, McGwire, Sosa, Johnson, Maddux, Jeter, and Bonds are still widely collected and hold significant value today. For capturing so much baseball history and talent in one release, 1999 Topps remains one of the most coveted and recognizable sets from the modern era.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1999

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The 1999 Topps baseball card set was the 58th year that Topps had produced baseball cards and collectors were excited to see what rookies and veterans would be featured in the new release. The 1990s had seen the rise of expensive collector sets from Upper Deck and Score that included premium inserts and autographs, but Topps remained the most popular brand for its affordability and large selection of players.

The set totaled 792 cards as was typical for Topps releases at the time. The design featured a white or black border around each photo with the team name and player stats printed at the bottom. Topps used the same simplistic design for many years as it was familiar to collectors but some criticized it for lacking creativity compared to competitor brands. The card stock was relatively thin which caused durability issues over time, but collectors appreciated how inexpensive it made the entire set to complete.

Some notable rookies featured in the 1999 Topps set included Ramon Ortiz of the Anaheim Angels, Ron Mahay of the Kansas City Royals, and Carl Crawford of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Ortiz and Mahay went on to have decent major league careers as starters and relievers while Crawford became a perennial all-star and won the Gold Glove award several times in the outfield for the Tampa Bay Rays. Also included were rookie cards for Mark Kotsay of the Florida Marlins and Josh Fogg of the Colorado Rockies who both had solid careers as role players.

The big name veterans that collectors sought after included Ken Griffey Jr. of the Cincinnati Reds, who was chasing the all-time home run record at the time, as well as Chicago Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa who was in a heated home run battle with Griffey all season long. Mike Piazza’s card as the new catcher for the New York Mets was popular since he was still producing like an all-star despite some injury problems the previous couple seasons. Baltimore Orioles shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. and his pursuit of Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record also generated excitement for collectors as his career neared its end.

In addition to the base set, Topps produced several insert sets similar to previous years. The Topps Gold Label parallels featured foil stamping and serial numbering on the front. The Topps Heroes subset highlighted significant milestones and records from baseball history. The Topps Traded set was the update issue released mid-season that included players traded to new teams or called up from the minors since the original release date in spring training. An autograph card insert called “Topps Triple Threads” featured tri-material swatches of fabric, memorabilia, and autographs of some of the game’s biggest stars. These inserts provided collectors optional chase categories beyond just completing the base 792 card set.

When the 1999 season began, the home run chase between Sammy Sosa and Ken Griffey Jr. was one of the most exciting storylines. Both players were on pace to beat Roger Maris’ single season record of 61 home runs and receiving heavy media coverage. Though Sosa ultimately finished ahead of Griffey that year with 66 dingers, their prolonged back-and-forth battle helped bring new interest and collectors to the sport of baseball cards as fans followed all their monster shots. Rookies Orlando Hernandez, Matt Clement, and Bud Smith also made their Topps debuts and looked to make an impact after coming up through their team’s farm systems.

In terms of team highlights reflected on the cards, the New York Yankees were defending World Series champions behind homegrown stars Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, and Andy Pettitte. The Atlanta Braves were still a perennial contender led by future Hall of Famers Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz. The Cubs and Mets dreamed of postseason glory for their longtime suffering fans. The upstart Diamondbacks began their existence in Arizona under manager Buck Showalter and general manager Joe Garagiola Jr. Hints of dynasties were seen for the Red Sox and Cardinals while the Indians, Marlins, and Reds hoped to challenge in their divisions as well.

When collectors began opening packs of the 1999 Topps baseball cards, they saw the stars and teams that defined that season frozen in time. Though Griffey vs. Sosa ended up being the main story, young talent like Crawford, Kotsay, and Clement also signaled a changing of the guard. Veterans like Ripken waving goodbye made collectors appreciate great careers coming to an end. Between the rookies, updates, parallels and inserts – there was something in the 1999 Topps set for fans both casual and die-hard. Its affordable price point ensured the cards reached the hands of many, preserving that magic summer for future generations to experience whenever they shuffle through the well-loved cards.

MOST VALUABLE 1999 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1999 Upper Deck baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the late 90s. Upper Deck was the premier brand in the hobby at the time and collectors were eager to see which rookie cards and valuable veterans would be featured. While it didn’t contain any true superstar rookies on the level of a Griffey Jr. or Ichiro, there were still several cards that have stood the test of time and gained significant value over the past two decades. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and desirable cards from the 1999 Upper Deck baseball set.

One of the top cards from the ’99 Upper Deck set is the Chipper Jones SP Autograph (#221). Chipper was already an established star for the Atlanta Braves by 1999, having won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 1995 and an NL MVP in 1998. His autograph parallels from Upper Deck were highly sought after and this crisp on-card signature ranks among the best. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, the Jones autograph has recently sold for over $1,000. Even in lower PSA 8-9 Excellent-Mint grades, this card still fetches $300-500. Autographed parallels have always been a specialty for Upper Deck and Jones’ signature and fame added significant value here.

Another high-dollar pull is the Sammy Sosa Refractor (#96R). Sosa had just hit 66 home runs in 1998 to challenge Mark McGwire’s single season record. Refractors were the insert chase cards of the 90s and any Sosa parallel had collector demand. This colorful Sosa Refractor looks spectacular in person and grades very well due to Upper Deck’s protective coating. Recently a PSA 10 sold for just under $900 while a PSA 9 brought over $500. Sosa’s star power remains strong with collectors and his iconic home run races added to this card’s historical significance.

Staying in the slugger category, the Mark McGwire Refractor (#218R) is a true heavyweight in the set. Much like the Sosa above, McGwire’s record-breaking 1998 season where he and Sosa dueled for 62+ homers was still fresh in collector’s minds. His iconic stance and swing pictured on this card continue to attract fans young and old. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $800 with PSA 9’s bringing approximately $500-600 depending on the market. McGwire remains a polarizing figure but his ’98 accomplishments can’t be denied and this Upper Deck issue captures an icon of the steroid era at the peak of his powers.

Switching gears to pitching, one of the most visually stunning cards from the update set is the Pedro Martinez Refractor (#121R). Martinez was already a two-time Cy Young winner by 1999 and was establishing himself as perhaps the most dominant pitcher in baseball. His wind-up and delivery are pitch perfect on this card and the refractor technology really makes his smiling face pop. Recently a PSA 10 brought over $900 and even a PSA 9 still sold for about $600 showing this card’s long term popularity. Martinez’s elite talent and popularity in Boston have maintained strong collector interest in his rookie and early career issues from the 90s.

Switching to rookie cards, while there wasn’t a true superstar in the 1999 Upper Deck class, several players showed promise. One that has held steady value is the Tim Hudson rookie card (#229). Hudson went on to become a solid, durable starter collecting over 200 wins and making 3 All Star teams for the A’s and Braves. His rookie is fairly scarce in high grade and a recent PSA 10 sold for $425. In PSA 9 condition, this Hudson generally fetches $200-300. While not the biggest name, Hudson had a very good career and this served as his only true rookie making it an iconic card for A’s collectors.

Another rookie that has some long term appreciation is the Alfonso Soriano issue (#231). Soriano broke out with the Yankees in 1999 to garner ROY attention and went on to have a nice power-speed career collecting over 400 steals and 300 home runs. As an exciting young talent in pinstripes, his Upper Deck rookie saw early collector interest. Higher end PSA 10’s have sold near $350 while PSA 9’s usually land around $200-250. Soriano showcased 5-tool promise that intrigued collectors and this served as his primary rookie card which continues to hold fan interest.

While not overwhelming in true superstar rookies, the 1999 Upper Deck set did feature several budding young talents like Hudson and Soriano who went on to have solid MLB careers. Cards of the towering sluggers like Sosa, McGwire and veteran superstars like Pedro Martinez still capture collector attention decades later for their historical significance in capturing icons of the late 90s steroid era at the peak of their popularity and prodigious power. The high-end autographs, refractors and select rookie cards from this release like the five highlighted here remain some of the mostvaluable collectors’ items from the entire set nearly 25 years later.

1999 FLEER TRADITION BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1999 Fleer Tradition baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the top issues of the 1990s. While it didn’t receive the same mainstream attention as some other brands during that decade, Fleer Tradition cards from 1999 have proven to retain substantial value years after their original release. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that contribute to the ongoing desirability and investment potential of this particular vintage card series.

Released right at the tail end of the 20th century baseball card boom in 1998-1999, Fleer Tradition offered collectors a innovative retro-styled design that paid homage to classic cardboard from the 1970s. With a clean white border and vivid primary color photograph on each card front, the visual style hearkened back to a golden era for the hobby. The card stock and production quality were completely modern. Each Tradition card featured quality glossy photo reproductions and a thin, durable plastic coating to protect images and autographs.

Perhaps the biggest draw for 1999 Fleer Tradition was its impressive rookie class and star player checklist. Headlining the set were rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Chipper Jones, Vladimir Guerrero, and Nomar Garciaparra. Those three rookie gems in particular have maintained strong collector demand. A PSA 10 graded Chipper Jones Tradition rookie is currently valued around $1,000 while a PSA 10 Vlad Guerrero commands over $700. Other notable rookies like Jason Giambi and Todd Helton also debuted in this set.

Veteran superstars of the late 90s also received showcase treatment in Tradition ’99. Ken Griffey Jr, who was arguably the biggest name in baseball at the time, looks sharp on his Tradition issue. A mint Griffey from the set can sell for $60-80 raw. Also highly collected are cards featuring Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa, and Greg Maddux during their respective prime years. The presence of so many true icons of the sport guaranteed this set would have lasting collectibility.

As with any release from the peak years of card collecting mania, Fleer Tradition 1999 benefited from extraordinary initial production numbers. While estimates vary, most sources indicate the print run was somewhere in the ballpark of 80-100 million packs. Such a gigantic print run satiated short term demand but also ensured this set would remain quite affordable and accessible to collectors even decades later. With so many cards still in circulation nearly untouched, Tradition ’99 remains a gold mine for collectors looking to build full runs or locate particular stars and rookies on a budget.

Thanks in large part to its massive original print run, 1999 Fleer Tradition cards tend to trade hands today at relatively reasonable prices compared to other elite vintage issues from the same era. Even well-centered, near mint examples of the highest valued rookie cards usually sell in the $50-150 range depending on player. Commons and basic star veterans can often be acquired for under $5. This combination of affordability and impressive star power content is a big part of the set’s enduring popularity among both casual collectors and seasoned investors alike.

As with any other vintage sports card properties, certain short printed parallels and rare variations within the 1999 Fleer Tradition set command significant premiums far above generic base cards. Perhaps most coveted are the set’s limited numbered reflection parallel cards, of which only 10 copies of each exist. A PSA 10 graded Chipper Jones Reflection parallel would sell for well over $2,000. Other scarce finds include Printing Plates, Ink Blots, promotional factory sets, and of course the elusive 1/1 variations that sometimes surface years later. These rare subsets keep the supply of true “condition census” Tradition cards extremely tight.

The nostalgic design combined with all-time great rookie classes and superstar checklists make 1999 Fleer Tradition one of the blue-chip properties from the exciting late 90s peak in sports card history. While common cards remain quite affordable, the true investment-grade specimens at the very top end continue appreciate at a healthy pace. Accessible yet appealing to investors both large and small, Tradition ’99 remains a perennially popular set with solid long term appreciation prospects. Its staying power is a testament to the magic Fleer captured in its final retro-themed baseball release before exiting the card game in the early 2000s.

In conclusion, 1999 Fleer Tradition baseball cards have proven to retain significant collector value because of the set’s classic retro design, star-studded rookie classes and superstar checklist, extremely large original print run ensuring great affordability and accessibility even decades later, and valuable short printed parallels providing opportunities for tremendous appreciation. The combination of affordability, nostalgia, and demand for iconic players makes Tradition ’99 one of the safest long term sports card investments from the 1990s baseball card boom.

1999 UPPER DECK MVP BASEBALL CARDS PRICING

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The 1999 Upper Deck MVP Baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1990s. Coming off the massive popularity of the sport during Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa’s home run chase in 1998, interest in collecting baseball cards was at an all-time high. Upper Deck, the dominant brand in the hobby at the time, looked to capitalize on this excitement with their 1999 MVP Baseball set. While not quite as iconic or valuable as some of the other legendary Upper Deck releases of the era like 1998 or 1996, the 1999 MVP Baseball cards still carry significance for collectors and provide insight into the pricing trends of cards from that period.

The 1999 Upper Deck MVP Baseball base set consisted of 330 cards total. The design featured straightforward vertical player portraits with statistics and team logos on the reverse. Rosters included both Major and Minor Leaguers. Some of the biggest stars featured in the base set included Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Cal Ripken Jr., Greg Maddux, Pedro Martinez, and Roger Clemens. In near mint to mint condition straight from the pack, typical base cards for these star players would have sold for around $1-2 each in the late 1990s/early 2000s.

Parallels and inserts drove much of the excitement and value in the 1999 Upper Deck MVP Baseball set beyond the base cards. The Gold parallel featured a limited print run of one per case and carried significant rarity premiums, with stars selling in the $50-100 range. The Silver parallel had a print run of one per box and garnered $10-25. Other popular inserts that saw good secondary market prices included Franchise Fabulous Feats, which highlighted career milestones and sold for $5-15 per card. MVP Awards featured awards winners and reached $3-8.

Rookies and prospects were another major area of focus for collectors. Future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones had his rookie card in the 1999 MVP set. In gem mint 10 condition, this coveted rookie has sold at auction for over $1,000. Other top prospects like Bobby Abreu, Lance Berkman, and Brian Giles also featured prominently and their rookies remain steady sellers in the $10-50 range based on grade. Autograph and memorabilia cards of prospects were particularly sought after pre-rookie season and could fetch over $100 for the biggest names.

As with any popular set from the late 90s, there was an immense boom in production which has led to an oversupply of most base cards still in circulation today. Even star rookies and parallels are readily available raw in high grades on the secondary market. As a result, values have remained relatively stable but low compared to the initial hype. A complete base set in near mint to mint condition can be acquired today for under $50. Gold parallels of stars float around $10-20, and silver parallels $3-8. Top rookie cards like Chipper Jones have stabilized in the $75-150 range based on grade.

There remain subsets and serial numbered cards that maintain strong collector demand and premium pricing. The Franchise Fabulous Feats Black parallel had an ultra-limited print run estimated around 1 per case. High grade examples of stars like McGwire or Sosa have sold for over $500. The Franchise Legends subset featured retired greats like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron. Their cards regularly command $50-150 each. Autographs and memorabilia cards of stars also hold value relative to comparable issues from other sets. A Ken Griffey Jr. autograph sold at auction in 2020 for around $400.

When factoring in historical print runs, player selection, and the nostalgia for 1990s baseball cards as a whole, the 1999 Upper Deck MVP Baseball release remains a significant set in the hobby. While overproduction has stabilized most regular base cards and parallels at affordable levels, the rarer serial numbered inserts and particularly the coveted rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones ensure this set maintains relevance for collectors. With the recent boom in overall sports card investing, certain premium pieces from the 1999 MVP set have seen renewed collector interest and appreciation. While unlikely to reach the heights of the true vintage 1950s/1960s issues, this release still offers affordable classic 1990s cardboard along with some key pieces that can reasonably appreciate over the long term.

The 1999 Upper Deck MVP Baseball base set provides a cost-effective cross-section of the late 90s MLB talent at prices under $50 complete. Key rookies like Chipper Jones and short prints including the Franchise Legends and Fabulous Feats Black parallels command $50-500 based on player, condition, and parallel. Autographs and memorabilia of stars offer additional value potential upwards of $100-400. While overproduction stabilized common cards at low levels, the insert subsets and especially the hottest rookie cards ensure this set maintains relevance for collectors of 1990s sports memorabilia almost 25 years later.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1999

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The 1999 baseball card price guide provided collectors and dealers insight into the values of some of the most iconic and sought after cards from the late 1980s through the late 1990s baseball card boom. With the height of the baseball card craze starting to fade by 1999, prices had started to level off from the peaks of the early and mid-1990s. Vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s as well as rookie cards of star players from the late 80s and 90s still commanded top dollar.

One of the most valuable sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s remained the iconic 1989 Upper Deck baseball card set. Considered by many to be the pinnacle of modern baseball card design and production quality, the 1989 Upper Deck set featured sharp photography and autographs of the game’s biggest stars on nearly every card. Two of the most coveted and valuable rookie cards in the entire set were Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s rookie card was valued at $125 in 1999 while Frank Thomas’ rookie fetched $80. Other star players like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, and Don Mattingly had valuable base cards ranging from $15-30 depending on condition.

The rookie card boom of the early 1990s was still having an impact on prices in 1999. Star players who first appeared in sets in the late 80s and early 90s continued to have their rookie cards hold strong value. For example, the iconic 1992 Bowman rookie card of Derek Jeter was listed at $60 in mint condition in the 1999 price guide despite Jeter only having a few seasons under his belt. Other 90s rookies like Chipper Jones (1991 Bowman), Juan Gonzalez (1989 Fleer), and Jim Thome (1989 Bowman) had mint rookie cards valued between $30-50. For collectors looking to invest, these cards represented strong long term hold potential.

Vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s were truly establishing themselves as premium collectibles fetching five figure prices by 1999. The holiest of grails, the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card, was valued in near mint to mint condition at $25,000 in the 1999 price guide. This represented a meteoric rise in value from just a few years prior. Other vintage stars like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Sandy Koufax had their best vintage cards ranging between $500-5000 depending on player, year, set, and condition. The 1970 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card, considered one of the most visually appealing vintage rookies, held a $150 price tag.

Beyond individual star cards, complete sets were highly valued as well. Among the most expensive sets in the 1999 price guide were the 1959 Topps set valued at $5,000+ in complete near mint to mint condition and the 1952 Topps set at $15,000+. Even sets like the classic 1957 Topps and 1969 Topps, considered “common” in the vintage collecting world, could fetch $1,000+ complete depending on condition. For collectors trying to fill out their vintage sets, the 1999 guide provided a helpful resource to understand relative pricing and which cards may have been more difficult to acquire.

In terms of modern sets from the 1990s being collected at the time, the price guide showed flagship sets like 1992 Upper Deck, 1994 Topps, and 1996 Fleer holding their value relatively well. Complete near mint sets could be acquired for $100-300 depending on the year. The prices showed signs of leveling off compared to just a couple years prior. Insert sets and parallel sets were beginning to take off in popularity as well. Premium parallel sets like 1996 Ultra, 1997 Finest Refractors, and 1998 SP Authentic held individual card values in the $5-20 range on star players.

While the peak of the baseball card market frenzy may have started to fade by 1999, the hobby was still going strong. The price guide provided an indispensable tool for collectors to understand relative values across the eras from vintage to modern. Cards of franchise players from the 1950s remained truly rare collectibles worth thousands, while 1990s rookies of future Hall of Famers held strong long term appeal. For collectors and investors, understanding the 1999 baseball card values served as a snapshot in time of the transitioning market.

The 1999 baseball card price guide gave collectors and dealers a comprehensive look at values during a transitional time for the hobby. Vintage cards continued multi-year rises that established premium collectability. Rookies from the late 80s and 90s boom held value led by stars like Griffey Jr, Jeter and Jones. Modern sets prices showed signs of leveling off after frenzied early 90s peaks. The guide served as an important reference point to understand the market during a time of change for baseball cards as a collectible.

OVATION BASEBALL CARDS 1999

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Ovation Baseball Cards 1999

The 1999 Ovation baseball card set was a highly anticipated release that took the collecting world by storm upon its arrival during the summer of 1998. Issued by Ovation Marketing Group, the upstart issuer hoped to make a major splash in the hobby by securing coveted licenses from Major League Baseball and the players union. With superb photography and cutting edge designs, the 1999 Ovation set delivered big league quality and truly captured the allure of America’s pastime during a golden age for the sport.

Although a relative newcomer compared to industry stalwarts like Topps, Ovation had been quietly building a reputation over the previous few years with well-received sets focusing on smaller niche themes. For 1999, they decided to go big or go home with a massive flagship release covering all 30 MLB franchises. Securing the necessary licenses was no small feat, but it gave collectors their first serious alternative to the traditional Topps series in years. With an eager, pent-up demand from fans tired of the same old products, Ovation’s foray into the big leagues was perfectly timed.

Containing an impressive 660 total cards, the 1999 Ovation set ambitiously included base cards, retro parallels and special insert sets all centered around chronicling that season’s action on the diamond as well as honoring classic players and moments from baseball lore. Graphically designed by acclaimed Chicago artist John Kikas, the diverse array of cards featured exquisitely detailed illustrations, original portraits and action shots that brought the players directly to life. Accompanied by vital stats and career highlights on the back, each card was a work of art celebrating America’s favorite pastime.

While plenty of parallels and serial numbered variants added to the excitement, the bread and butter of the set was its massive base checklist spanning all 30 MLB teams. With up to 22 cards dedicated to each club’s active roster and other notables, fans could spend hours assembling their favorite squads. Additional retired greats were also included, ensuring that icons like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron held influence over the set even in their post-playing days. With an unmatched scope, the 1999 Ovation set was truly the most complete baseball card collection released up to that point.

Of course, no premier release would be complete without some coveted short printed rookie cards and insert sets to drive collector demand. Among the most hunted after SP’s were Florida Marlins stud pitcher Josh Beckett and Red Sox slugger Nomar Garciaparra, who each offered a tantalizing glimpse of future stardom on the diamond. Beyond the coveted rookie SP’s, Ovation also rolled out a variety of numbered parallel sets at different price points for high-end collectors. The most storied of these was undoubtedly the “Tribute” insert set which honored the greatest players of each franchise through the decades with exquisite foil cards.

Boasting dazzling photography and artistic compositions, the Tribute parallels captured such legendary players as Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Sandy Koufax, and dozens more within iconic scenes commemorating their place in baseball history. With serial numbers down to an extremely limited 99 copies, high-grade Tribute cards became the true jewels that the serious memorabilia investors lusted after during the boom years of the late 90’s card market. Although carrying premium price tags in the hundreds to thousands for the most desirable subjects, the investment steadily paid off as values skyrocketed in the following years.

Beyond the alluring photography of the base, parallels and inserts, Ovation also succeeded with a popular and diverse assortment of specialty subsets celebrating various aspects of on-field play. Some highlights included the “Diamond Kings” parallels honoring the achievements of each club’s all-time best player, while “Ovation Originals” paid tribute to stars from yesteryear through classic illustrations of key moments in their careers. Additionally, “All-Century” cards recognized the sport’s living legends via updated portraits from the late 90’s, ensuring they maintained a presence in the modern card landscape.

As the product cycle continued into the following years, Ovation built upon the goodwill and demand generated by their landmark 1999 offering. While never dethroning Topps as the sport’s true kingpin, the upstart publisher succeeded in carving out their own devoted fanbase and established Ovation as a premium brand synonymous with high-quality baseball cards. Two decades later, the 1999 release remains one of the most popular and iconic sports card sets ever produced, still sparking nostalgia among collectors both old and new. Through exquisite design, committed licensing and capturing an exciting period in the sport’s history, Ovation’s initial foray into the big leagues was an unqualified grand slam success.

1999 PACIFIC BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1999 Pacific trading card set is considered a favorite among collectors due to the inclusion of star players from the late 1990s as well as the attractive visual design of the cards. The set includes 264 total cards featuring players, managers, and even a memorabilia card. With over two decades having passed since the set was released, many of the cards have increased substantially in value. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1999 Pacific set and what they may be worth to collectors today.

Perhaps the most valuable regular issue card from the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. sticker card, numbered 265/264. Griffey was one of the biggest stars in baseball during the late 90s and his iconic swinging pose made this card extremely popular. In near mint condition, unopened examples of this Griffey sticker card regularly sell for over $200. Another Griffey card that commands a high price is the Gold Medal Award Leaders card, which honors his 10 consecutive Gold Glove awards. Graded mint copies of this parallel card have sold for upwards of $150.

Speaking of parallels, the 1999 Pacific set included several parallel designs that are more scarce than the base cards. The Gold Medal parallels recognize single season leaders or award winners, while Silver & Diamond parallels were randomly inserted. The Silver parallel cards are relatively common but high grade Diamond parallels of star players can be quite valuable. For example, a PSA 10 graded Mike Piazza Diamond parallel recently sold for over $400. The Gold Medal parallels tend to have the best resale value overall though, as they immortalize specific statistical achievements.

In addition to Griffey, other star players whose base cards hold significant value include Alex Rodriguez, Pedro Martinez, Greg Maddux, and Chipper Jones. All were franchise cornerstones of their respective teams during the late 90s. Mint condition ARod and Pedro rookies can sell for $50-75 each, while a PSA 10 Chipper Jones reaches upwards of $150-200 given his Hall of Fame career and strong fan following. Meanwhile, near perfect Greg Maddux cards seem to hold steady around the $100 mark or more depending on parallel design. Condition is extremely important when evaluating the worth of these star player cards.

The chase for rookie cards is always strong among collectors and the 1999 Pacific set features several noteworthy rookie debuts. Perhaps the biggest story is that of Derek Jeter, who exploded onto the scene in 1996 and proceeded to become one of the greatest Yankees of all time. A pristine Jeter rookie still encapsulated in its original grading holder will fetch $400-500 minimum, with PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10s often selling in the $800-1000 range or higher if auction competition is fierce. Other rookies to keep an eye out for include Todd Helton, Garrett Atkins, and Alfonso Soriano, whose cards can reach $50-150 in top condition as well.

Beyond the individual star cards, complete sets are highly sought after by collectors looking to obtain every card from a given year. With nearly 300 total cards, the 1999 Pacific set is quite large and tracking them all down takes dedication. Complete near mint or better condition sets have sold recently in the $800-1200 range depending on centering, corners and edges across all cards. Higher grades bump the value up significantly, with PSA/BGS 9+ complete sets reaching $1500-2000. For collectors it’s a goal to assemble the full vintage set in pristine condition.

The memorabilia cards inserted randomly provide a fun bonus for collectors. The 1999 Pacific set featured a Barry Bonds game-used bat card that is quite scarce. Seeing as Bonds broke the all-time home run record in 2001 and is considered one of the greatest sluggers ever, his relic cards carry considerable weight. Recently a PSA 10 Bonds bat card sold for a stunning $850. Other players featured across various sets in this era included Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, and Cal Ripken Jr. High graded versions of their memorabilia cards can reach $150-400 based on the player and specific piece of equipment or jersey swatch used.

The 1999 Pacific baseball card set remains a engaging collection for players of the late 90s era. With iconic talents like Jeter, Griffey, Bonds, and Martinez highlighted among the 264 total cards, interest level stays high many years after initial release. Condition is extremely important, as pristine Mint or Gem Mint examples fetch the strongest returns for dedicated collectors. While the average base cards hold modest value, the inserts, parallels, autographs and memorabilia provide avenues to significantly greater profit potential. Overall it’s an enjoyable set to build or invest in given the star power and visual style from during one of the most popular eras in baseball history.