Tag Archives: 2017

TOPPS 2017 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps baseball card release marked the 59th year that Topps held the exclusive license to produce Major League Baseball cards. Some of the key highlights and facts about the 2017 Topps baseball card set include:

Base Set – The base card set consisted of 570 total cards featuring current MLB players and managers. This was 25 cards more than the 545 cards in the 2016 base set. Some of the rookies that debuted in the 2017 set included Andrew Benintendi, Nick Senzel, and Rafael Devers. Topps also continued its tradition of including an “All-Star” photo variation subset of 60 cards within the base set.

Design and Photography – Topps kept the same basic vertical design that it introduced in 2016 but made some enhancements. Specifically, they lightened the team logo and name font at the bottom to make the photography stand out more. The photos were also slightly larger than in past years. Topps photographers captured new action shots of almost every player to keep things feeling fresh for collectors.

Additional Insert Sets – Beyond the base cards, Topps released numerous additional insert sets that collectors could chase. The “Clear” acetate insert set returned with acetate parallels of popular players. Topps also began using “relic” cards featuring game-used memorabilia more extensively across different insert sets rather than just in high-end products. Examples included cloth material from MLB jerseys in the “Threadings” subset.

MLB 125th Anniversary – To celebrate MLB’s 125th anniversary in 2017, Topps released inserts recognizing the histories of each franchise as well as honoring past Hall of Fame players. The “125 Seasons” inserts featured iconic moments from each team’s past. Topps also issued special red parallel versions of these inserts that were short printed to 1-in-10 packs.

High Numbers – Continuing a recent trend, Topps issued a separate “High Numbers” series beginning with card #571 for players who did not make the base set roster cut. This High Numbers set included 119 additional current player cards to round out rosters. Topps also added “Flashback” retired player cards to the High Numbers set for the first time.

Chrome and Specialty Products – In addition to the traditional paper base and high number sets, Topps released several other premium offerings. The popular “Topps Chrome” refractors and parallels were made available in traditional factory-sealed wax packs as well as loose in specialty boxes. Fan favorite “Allen & Ginter” and “Stadium Club” sets brought distinctive designs and additional hit chase cards inserted in 1-per-box.

Star Rookies – Topps distributed several particularly hot rookie cards across its 2017 releases that have held and increased in secondary market value. Players like Cody Bellinger, Aaron Judge, and Dansby Swanson all had flagship Topps rookie cards as well as additional parallels and insert cards that fueled collector demand for their burgeoning careers.

The 2017 Topps baseball card lineup continued the brand’s six decades of tradition while making updates to stay fresh. Along with stronger rookie classes compared to recent years, this created renewed excitement among collectors young and old. While competitors like Panini and Leaf tried to chip away at Topps’ market share with new MLBPA licenses, Topps remained the focal point and maintained its status as “The Trademark” in the annual card release cycle. Looking back, the 2017 offerings represented another solid year building the foundation for the next generation of collectors and enthusiasts.

BASEBALL CARDS FROM 2017

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Baseball cards from 2017 provide an interesting snapshot of the current state of Major League Baseball. The 2017 season saw several notable storylines unfold that were reflected in that year’s baseball card releases from companies like Topps, Panini, and Leaf. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most prominent players, teams, and themes showcased in 2017 baseball cards.

The Chicago Cubs were heavily featured after winning their first World Series title in over a century in 2016. Stars like Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Jake Arrieta remained hot commodities in the baseball card world in 2017 cards as the Cubs sought a repeat championship. The Los Angeles Dodgers emerged as the team to beat in 2017 with a stacked roster led by Clayton Kershaw, Cody Bellinger, and Justin Turner. Their battle with the Washington Nationals for National League supremacy was a storyline that carried over to the card releases.

Rookies burst onto the scene as well. Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees had one of the greatest rookie seasons in baseball history, smashing 52 home runs en route to being crowned American League Rookie of the Year. His towering shots and dominant play made him one of the most sought-after young stars in 2017 cards. Fellow rookies Cody Bellinger, Paul DeJong, and Andrew Benintendi also debuted with fanfare and saw high demand for their rookie cards. Veteran stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Kris Bryant remained steady fixtures as well thanks to their consistent excellence on the field year after year.

Beyond individual players, 2017 also saw the debut of several exciting new stadiums captured on cards. The Miami Marlins unveiled their new home, Marlins Park, after years playing in the outdated Sun Life Stadium. Their cards showcased the ballpark’s unique retractable roof and colorful fish tank backdrop behind the center field wall. In Texas, the Texas Rangers opened Globe Life Park, moving from their original new ballpark, The Ballpark in Arlington, after over 20 years. Cards featured panoramic shots of the stadium and its distinctive retractable roof as well.

New uniforms also debuted. The Tampa Bay Rays unveiled a set of stylish, modern uniforms with sky blue and orange colors replacing the outdated navy and white look. Their cards highlighted the refreshed on-field look. The Atlanta Braves also rolled out a new uniform paying tribute to the city’s history with script lettering, tomahawk logos, and dark blue and red colors harkening back to the franchise’s glory days in the 1990s.

Trading cards in 2017 also reflected the growing internationalization of Major League Baseball. Young stars like Yoan Moncada, Gleyber Torres, and Eloy Jimenez were featured prominently as highly-touted prospects in the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees systems. Japanese two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani also began to generate buzz in cards as he prepared to make the jump to MLB in 2018. Cards showcased MLB’s efforts to grow the game globally by highlighting top international talents.

Rookies, veterans, stadiums, uniforms, and international players were all major talking points in 2017 baseball cards. The cards reflected an ever-changing MLB landscape while also preserving memories of that singular season for collectors. As the game continued to evolve, cards served as a collector’s window into the state of baseball in 2017. Featuring the biggest names, best rookies, and most impactful stories of that season, 2017 baseball cards offer a compelling snapshot of America’s pastime at a pivotal moment in time.

2017 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 2017 Topps baseball card set featured several rookies and star players that have cards from that year now holding strong value. released in late winter/early spring of 2017, the flagship Topps series is one of the most popular issues from the modern era thanks to a loaded rookie class and inclusion of big names. While it may be too early to truly know which 2017 Topps cards will become the most coveted long term, there are already several that stand out as solid investments or hold meaningful value for collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top 2017 Topps baseball cards worth focusing on that could make owners money down the road.

One of the biggest stories from the 2017 season was Aaron Judge’s record-setting rookie campaign with the New York Yankees. Judge smacked 52 home runs to set the new rookie record, playing a huge role in the Yankees returning to the postseason. Not surprisingly, his top rookie card from 2017 Topps is one of the set’s most expensive. The Aaron Judge topps chrome refractor rookie card #US250 often sells for $100+ in mint/near mint condition. The iconic photo and his huge breakout year make this one of the clear standouts from the set. While Judge has experienced some sophomore slump struggles, his rookie success and marketability to Yankee fans ensures this will remain a coveted card for years. Other Judge rookies like his mainstream base rookie are also worth a couple dozen dollars or more.

Another rookie slugger who had a huge first impression was Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers. While he doesn’t have the name recognition of Judge, Bellinger swatted 39 home runs as a rookie and helped lead the Dodgers to back-to-back NL pennants. His Topps Chrome Red Refractor rookie #US300 often sells in the $75-100 range in strong condition. Even Bellinger’s base Topps rookie card has held value around $20-30. With continued strong play in tough LA market, Bellinger’s cards could appreciate well as he develops a career. His rookie cards remain solid holds especially for Dodgers collectors.

Staying in Los Angeles, one of the set’s most iconic veteran cards is Clayton Kershaw’s base issue. The Three-time Cy Young winner and longtime Dodger ace is one of the faces of the game, and #82 remains one of the most identifiable player cards in the modern era. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples often sell in the $50-75+ range. While injury has slowed him at times the past few years, when healthy Kershaw remains one of MLB’s most dominant starting pitchers which should continue driving interest in his cards long term. Other star Dodger veterans like Corey Seager who’ve experienced postseason success also command respectable prices in higher grades.

Star Chicago Cubs have always held collector appeal, and franchise cornerstone third baseman Kris Bryant made his Topps debut in 2017. Bryant won NL MVP in 2016 and continued producing at an All-Star level in 2017-18. His base rookie card remains a steady $15-25 while the top Kris Bryant Topps Chrome Blue Refractor RC #99B often reaches $50-75+ in pristine condition. With sustained star caliber play Bryant has staying power, and his cards should appreciate alongside the Cubs continued success or if he’s traded to another big market team. Other young Chicago stars like shortstop Addison Russell also have upward momentum on higher graded examples of their respective rookies from this set as they develop.

Beyond the huge name rookies, 2017 Topps had a loaded group of potential one-year wonders who broke out but have since cooled off. Players like Gleyber Torres, Cody Bellinger, Rhys Hoskins, Andrew Benintendi and more all had huge rookie campaigns in 2017 that caused their cards to spike initially. While some have tapered off a bit statistically since, their rookie cards have maintained $10-25+ price points in top condition thanks to huge debut years. If any rebound to recapture that magic, their 2017 Topps rookies could see another price bump. Meanwhile, the cards of players who have stayed consistent like Ozzie Albies, Willie Calhoun and others remain solid investments around the $5-15 range.

Top veteran pitchers who were entering or solidifying their primes in 2017 like Corey Kluber, Chris Sale, Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander also command respectable values across the board from $5-25+ in higher grades. Perennial stars and budding young aces are always safe bets, and those names in particular have track records of elite performance that will drive long term collector and investor interest in their 2017 issues if maintained. Popular young stars like Francisco Lindor, Mookie Betts and other prominent faces of the league carry strong value potentials from this release. Name recognition and sustained success is key to appreciating cards long term.

Taking a broader look, beyond key rookies and stars 2017 Topps also included highly sought short prints and parallels that can hold immense value. Rare SP and printing plate cards of stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper or rookies selling for hundreds to thousands depending on the player and specific parallel. Condition sensitive refractors, prisms, and serial numbered or autograph parallels are the longshots most apt to experience exponential price growth matching the ascension of featured players careers. While it’s impossible to project the next true breakout star, higher end short prints and serials hold the biggest upside financial potential from this release if features players turn into household names.

While it’s still relatively early the 2017 Topps baseball release has proven to hold many worthwhile long term investment and collection cards centered around stars like Judge, Bryant, Bellinger and elite veterans. Maintaining the cards of top young talents and aces in higher grades is advisable. The short prints and parallels also carry enormous valuation ranges depending on the players’ eventual outcomes. Overall 2017 Topps is one of the more intriguing modern sets to watch appreciate over coming years as careers progress and rarer inserts increase in desirability. Patience and focusing on proven performance and marketability will serve collectors best with this release.

2017 RARE BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball card collecting exploded in popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Interest started to wane in the late 90s as kids became more interested in digital games and cell phones rather than cardboard collectibles. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the baseball card market was relatively tame with mainly die-hard collectors still actively seeking out and trading cards. In recent years there has been a resurgence of interest in the hobby, especially fueled by the rise of online auction sites like eBay that have made collecting more accessible. This has led to renewed interest and higher prices being paid for the most coveted vintage and modern-era cards.

The 2017 season saw some truly talented rookies make their debut, which has sparked interest in their rookie cards. Players like Cody Bellinger, Aaron Judge, and Rhys Hoskins have already established themselves as stars in their early careers. Their rookie cards from 2017 Bowman, Topps, and other sets have greatly increased in value since being pulled from packs just a few short years ago. These rookies could potentially have Hall of Fame careers which would make their earliest cards that much more desirable in the future. Of course, careers can also fizzle out quickly in baseball so there is inherent risk in speculating on young talents.

Some 2017 cards that have shown tremendous growth in secondary prices include the Cody Bellinger Topps Series 1 Orange Parallel (#153) rookie card. Fresh off winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2017, Bellinger looked like a superstar in the making. His Topps rookie orange parallels, which were numbered to only 50 copies, have sold for over $1,000 each on auction sites. In the long run, if Bellinger becomes a perennial MVP candidate these could potentially be $10,000+ cards. Aaron Judge also had an electric rookie year in 2017. His Topps Opening Day Gold parallel (#85) is also limited to only 50 printed and has sold for around $700-900 each over the past year. If Judge maintains his superstar level of production, these coveted parallels could eventually fetch well over $5,000 per card.

Beyond the obvious stars though, collectors are also seeking out more obscure rookie cards and parallels of players who broke out in 2017 or have had promising early careers. A card that fits this mould is Rhys Hoskins’ 2017 Bowman Chrome Green Parallel Auto (#76) rookie card. These parallels were limited to only 25 copies each and Hoskins was somewhat under the radar in his brief 2017 debut. But he’s emerged as a star power hitter for the Phillies the last two years. His low-numbered Bowman Chrome autos quickly rose from a $100-200 card in 2018 to consistently selling in the $500-800 range today. If Hoskins continues improving and makes an All-Star team or two, these exclusive parallels could escalate further to the $2,000-5,000 level over the ensuing years.

While star rookies dominate 2017 attention, veterans can also have valuable and sought-after cards from that season. Injuries limited him to just 82 games in 2017, but when healthy Wade Davis was still one of the top closers in baseball. His 2017 Topps Finest Orange Refractor parallel (/5) shows him as a Cub and is an extremely rare parallel limited to a print run of only 5 copies in existence. One of these sold on eBay last year for nearly $4,000, which is an astronomical price for a single modern-era card. Health surely plays a big factor, but if Davis does keep pitching effectively into his mid-30s, one could picture that card potentially reaching a lofty $10,000 price point down the road as a true Holy Grail for superstar closer collectors from that era.

Autograph cards also retain tremendous long-term potential value appreciation for the right players. Consider Gleyber Torres’ 2017 Topps Museum Collection Auto card (/50). Acquired by the Yankees in the 2016 Aroldis Chapman trade, Torres had a solid 2017 debut and looks like a future All-Star. Back in 2017, his Topps Museum autos were selling in the $100-200 range. Now, just a few years later, they commonly bring $400-600 on auction sites. If Torres continues developing into a perennial All-Star for the Yankees, it’s quite possible these autos could rocket up to the multi-thousand dollar range within 5-10 years. Getting an on-card auto of a player pre-fame for a couple hundred bucks and then seeing it appreciate over 1000% would make for an incredible long-term investment for any collector.

Two Japanese starters who made waves in 2017 and could have big future value are Shohei Ohtani and Tomoyuki Sugano. Ohtani’s prolific two-way talents were just starting to be unveiled in 2017 before injuries limited him. Sugano was posting video game numbers in Nippon Professional Baseball. Both had interesting 2017 BBM batting practice sticker auto Parallel cards issued in Japanese. Ohtani’s Lucky Seven parallel (/7) and Sugano’s Light Blue parallel (/10) have already 4x’d in price since 2017 as both started to generate more attention internationally. If either becomes a star internationally over the long run, any coveted early Ohtani or Sugano cards from before their MLB days could really explode in secondary value amongst international collectors.

The 2017 season saw the arrival of some truly special talents at the MLB level. While the careers of players like Judge and Bellinger are still a work in progress, their earliest cards are already extremely valuable and could retain tremendous long-term potential if they keep producing at superstar levels deep into this decade and beyond. Meanwhile, more off the beaten path rookie cards and parallels of breakout players like Rhys Hoskins may have been procured for bargain prices in the past but could escalate rapidly as those players ascend higher on the national stage. Autographs, short prints, and parallel cards of these players in particular will likely remain in the sharpest focus for savvy collectors moving forward. Overall, 2017 holds potential as a golden year of MLB rookie cards that maintain allure, demand, and appreciation for years to come if the careers pan out accordingly.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2017 COMPLETE SET

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The 2017 Topps Baseball Complete Base Set is the flagship baseball card release from Topps for the 2017 Major League Baseball season. For collectors looking to build a complete run of cards from the 2017 season, acquiring the full base set is key. The 2017 complete set contains several special parallel and insert sets in addition to the standard base cards, making for a robust collecting experience.

The 2017 Topps Baseball base set contains 650 cards in total. This includes individual cards for every MLB player on an Opening Day roster as well as managers, coaches, and league executives. Rostered players receive multiple cards each showcasing different action photos while backup and non-rostered players receive single cards. The standard base cards feature a photography-driven design with clean white borders and gray card stock. Players are organized by team on the front with player details like position, batting stats, and career highlights on the back.

In addition to the standard base cards, Topps included five parallel sets within the complete set. Chrome, Diamond Anniversary, Gallery, Independence Day, and Screaming Orange parallels provide collectors with shiny, refractory, and serialized parallel variations of the base cards. The Chrome parallels feature a glossy finish and numbered to /199 copies. Diamond Anniversary cards celebrate Topps’ 75th anniversary of making baseball cards with stylized gold borders and diamond accents. The Gallery parallels feature artistic photography treatments with a metallic foil finish. Independence Day parallels emphasize red, white, and blue designs released around July 4th. Screaming Orange variants stand out with a brilliant orange foil treatment. Collecting a full parallel run adds significant challenge to completing the set.

Several insert sets are also included within the 2017 Topps Complete Set. Highlights Sigs features autographed cards of star players with on-card autographs. Short Prints contain unique photo variations of base cards inserted randomly in packs at an extremely low ratio. Sizzlin’ Stats highlight accomplished players through graphic statistics embeds on the front. Topps Retired include cards of players who have since retired from the MLB. Veteran’s Weekend and Turn Back the Clock Focus On past MLB eras and celebrate heritage uniforms and retired numbers respectively. Collecting a full run of each popular insert set increases the size and depth of the complete 2017 collection significantly.

In addition to the standard English base set, Topps released the set in Spanish and Japanese language variations as well. The Spanish base set parallels the English counterpart but features translated player details, stats, and text on the back. It provides Hispanic collectors an accessible way to follow the sport. The Japanese base set features vertical writing per Japanese publishing standards with Japanese text on the fronts and backs. It allows international fans and collectors to participate. Collecting a tri-lingual or international run of the 2017 set increases its scope worldwide.

Topps has been the undisputed leader in baseball card production since the early 1950s. Their annual flagship release is considered the definitive baseball card set of each season by the collecting community. Completing a 2017 Topps Baseball Complete Set offers collectors ownership of all standard base cards, parallels, and popular inserts from that season. It serves as a snapshot archive of that year in baseball. For avid players and team followers, it’s a must-have keepsake. And for investors, a full set represents an asset that will sustain and potentially increase in value long-term as the sport’s history grows. Amassing a 2017 Topps Complete Baseball Set provides recognition as a true enthusiast within the hobby. It’s a challenging but rewarding undertaking for any dedicated collector.

While the 2017 Topps Baseball cards were released like normal in packs, boxes, and sets during that season, collecting a full complete set years later takes significant effort and determination. Base cards that initially retailed for under $1 each now sell for upwards of $5-10 each depending on the player. Popular parallels and low-print inserts command premium prices well above their issue values. Building a 2017 complete set requires patience, strategy, and accessing the extensive secondary market of online auction sites, trading card forums, and specialty collectibles shops. It’s an intensive scavenger hunt to track down the necessary cards to finish the project.

Not only must a collector obtain each of the over 650 base cards across the various teams and leagues, they must also track down the precise parallel and insert variants within the established numbering and ratios. Misprints, anomalies, and coveted 1/1 printing plates take the challenge to an extreme level. Consulting checklists, guides, and community expertise is crucial to ensuring nothing is missed. With the depth of included subsets and variations, a true complete 2017 Topps Baseball set easily tops 1500 unique cards before accounting for player duplicates. The financial commitment to see such an undertaking through to completion runs into the thousands of dollars even years after initial release. But for a dedicated collector, the satisfaction of attaining this epic assemblage of baseball history is immeasurable.

The 2017 Topps Baseball Complete Set represents the definitive collection and microcosm of that singular MLB season. For fans and longtime collectors, acquiring and possessing a full 2017 set serves as a genuine accomplishment and keepsake for the ages. It memorializes the athletes, performances, and nostalgia of that campaign for future generations to enjoy. While no easy task, the reward of finishing such an intensive collecting goal is well worth the effort for any true baseball card aficionado. The 2017 Topps Complete Baseball Set will remain a highly coveted release and important touch point within the broader hobby and the sport’s broader history.

MOST VALUABLE 2017 TOPPS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Series 1 baseball card set was released in late January 2017 and contained numerous rookie cards and stars from the 2016 season that have significant future potential. While most packs contained common cards worth only a few cents, some packs contained highly valuable rookie cards or star veteran cards that could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 2017 Topps Series 1 baseball cards to pull from packs or buy as singles:

Cody Bellinger Rookie Card (RC) – The #1 card from the 2017 Topps Series 1 set is the Cody Bellinger rookie card. Bellinger had a phenomenal rookie season with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017, batting .267 with 39 home runs and 97 RBIs and winning NL Rookie of the Year honors. His Topps Series 1 rookie card is one of the key rookie cards from the entire 2017 season and is extremely valuable in high grades. Mint condition PSA 10 Bellinger rookies have sold for over $1,000 with most graded examples in the $200-500 range. Even raw copies in excellent condition can fetch $100-200. Bellinger appears poised for stardom making this one of the signature rookie cards from the entire decade.

Aaron Judge Rookie Card – Right behind Bellinger is another extremely valuable rookie, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. After breaking Mark McGwire’s rookie home run record with 52 homers in 2017, Judge became one of baseball’s biggest stars overnight. His Topps Series 1 rookie card exploded in value, with high grade PSA 10 copies approaching $1,000 as well. Most PSA 9 copies sell for $300-500 while raw mint versions can be had for $100-200. Judge looks like a perennial MVP candidate, practically ensuring his Topps rookie will remain one of the premier modern cards for years to come.

Corey Seager Rookie Card – Seager had a breakout season in 2016 when he won NL Rookie of the Year honors and helped lead the Los Angeles Dodgers to the NL pennant. His Topps Series 1 rookie card from 2015 remained a hot commodity in 2017. High grade PSA 10 copies consistently sell for $400-600 while most PSA 9’s go for $150-300. Even in raw near-mint condition, Seager rookies demand $50-150 due to his young age (24 in 2017), all-star performance, and status as a franchise cornerstone for the Dodgers going forward.

Alex Bregman Rookie Card – Bregman came off a strong rookie campaign for the Houston Astros in 2016 where he batted .264 with 19 home runs and 52 RBIs. His potential and role on a perennial contender like Houston make his Topps Series 1 rookie highly regarded. PSA 10 Bregman rookies sell in the $200-300 range usually with most PSA 9’s around $75-150. Even raw near-mint copies trade hands for $40-75 regularly. At just 23 years old in 2017, Bregman looked primed for stardom keeping his rookie card prices buoyant.

Yoan Moncada Rookie Card – Moncada was one of the most hyped international prospects ever when he signed with the Boston Red Sox out of Cuba. Traded to the Chicago White Sox in 2016, Moncada had a promising debut late in the year leaving scouts frothing over his future. As a result, his Topps Series 1 rookie remains a hot ticket. PSA 10 Moncadas reach $250-350 with most PSA 9’s around $100-200. Even raw near-mint copies demand $30-75 based on Moncada’s franchise-caliber talent at just age 21 in 2017.

Kris Bryant SP Variation – The Kris Bryant short print variation remains one of the prized shorts from Topps Flagship sets. Numbered to only 69 copies, these ultra-rare variations sell for an absolute premium. PSA 10 Bryant short prints have been known to sell for over $2,000 with most graded specimens in the $500-1,000 range. Even low-grade examples still bring $200-300 based on the extreme rarity and stature of Bryant, the reigning 2016 NL MVP, as a modern-day baseball superstar. Outside of autograph and relic cards, the Bryant SP stands out as the most intrinsically valuable card in the entire 2017 Topps Series 1 collection.

Clayton Kershaw Base Card – As one of the finest pitchers of his generation, any Clayton Kershaw card holds value. But his base card from Topps Series 1 remains a perennial favorite for collectors. In PSA 10 condition, Kershaw bases have sold for $250-350. Most PSA 9’s go for $75-150 with raw near-mint copies changing hands for $25-50. Even at age 29 in 2017, Kershaw showed no signs of slowing down and looked poised to cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats, guaranteeing his cards remain a collector favorite for years.

Noah Syndergaard SP Variation – Coming in a very close second to the Bryant short print for rarities in the 2017 Topps Series 1 set is the coveted Noah Syndergaard short print variation, of which there were only 25 copies made. An almost impossibly rare pull, PSA 10 “Thor” short prints have astonishingly sold for up to $1,500 before with most elite examples between $500-1,000. Even lower graded examples in the PSA 7-8 range have reached $200-300 prices. Simply put, the Syndergaard SP stands as one of the single most valuable cards from the flagship Topps series in years.

Mike Trout SP Variation – No discussion of modern valuable cards is complete without mentioning Mike Trout. While not quite as rare as the above Syndergaard at 99 copies made, the Trout short print retains immense value due to his status as arguably the best player in baseball. PSA 10 Trout SPs consistently sell for $300-500, with most PSA 9s in the $150-300 range as well. Clearly, Trout continues to be the golden goose of the collectibles industry, making any of his prized short prints universally coveted items for both investors and fans alike.

The 2017 Topps Series 1 set showed that while most packs contain readily available commons, there is always the chance at pulling a highly valuable modern star rookie or ultrarare parallel that could net collectors hundreds or thousands of dollars. Top rookies from the year like Bellinger, Judge and others are sure to retain value for decades as their careers progress. Meanwhile, scarce short prints of future Hall of Famers like Bryant, Trout and Syndergaard could grow to be worth small fortunes to their fortunate holders. Whether seeking key young prospects or rare veteran parallels, the 2017 Topps Series 1 set housed many potential long-term blue chip investments.

TOPPS HERITAGE 2017 BASEBALL CARDS

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The Topps Heritage brand is renowned for bringing back the look and feel of baseball cards from the past. In 2017, Topps Heritage celebrated its 15th anniversary by saluting designs from the 1970s. The vibrant colors and vivid imagery from that era were captured in this modern set of 525 cards.

Topps Heritage 2017 paid tribute to the 1974 Topps design. Like the originals from the 1970s, the cards featured a horizontal layout with the player’s photograph centered above their name and team. Solid color borders surrounded each image. For the first time ever, foil stamping was used on the card fronts to recreate the metallic team logo panel look of the 1974 design.

As with Heritage sets of the past, attention to detail was key. Card stock, textures, fonts, and production techniques aimed to immerse collectors in a total experience emulating the baseball cards of the 1970s. The cardboard stock had a distinguished high-gloss finish matching the slick paper found in 1970s packs. Uniform designs, ballparks, and equipment accurately portrayed each season being saluted.

The base set checklist highlighted the biggest stars and top rookies from across Major League Baseball in 2017. Superstar cards included Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout, Kris Bryant, and David Ortiz in his final season. Rising talents like Corey Seager, Andrew Benintendi, and Aaron Judge received their Heritage issue rookie cards in this set.

Parallel and insert cards provided added layers of rarity and acquisition for collectors. The Rainbow Foil parallel featured a flashy multi-colored treatment on the cardboard fronts. A foil Stadium Club logo symbolized membership to an exclusive club within the hobby. Subsets put the focus on All-Star selections, team leader stats, and players achieving milestones with Heritage Moment cards.

Autograph and memorabilia cards summoned the high-dollar hunt inherent to these collector-driven Heritage releases. Authenticated swatches of game-worn jerseys, bats, and caps accentuated star power players within the Treasured Materials subset. On-card autographs lent credibility and value to parallels featuring today’s elite like Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw, and Miguel Cabrera.

Beyond the base checklist, Topps Heritage 2017 went all-in on the 1970s tribute theme with dedicated subsets. Nostalgia was in full effect with the Players Weekend salute to that era’s Saturday uniforms. Bright solids, pinstripes, and flashy designs brought these uniforms to life on Heritage cardboard. A Celebrate the Seasons subset evoked 1970s scorecards, programs, ticket stubs and more through its retro graphics.

Topps Heritage captured one of the most iconic designs in the hobby’s history with its 1974 inspired layout. Vivid colors popped from the high-gloss cardboard stock matched to that decade. Superstars, rookies and parallels spanning today’s game blended history with the present. Achievements, uniforms from yesteryear, and autographs fused collectability with nostalgia in this detailed 15th anniversary celebration of Topps Heritage.

Whether experiencing the originals from the 1970s or collecting the modern parallels, Topps Heritage 2017 succeeded in transporting fans back to a golden age of baseball cards. Its detailed designs, artifacts of the past, and premium memorabilia pieces have cemented this set’s place among the most beloved issues in the long-running Heritage line. Topps captured lightning in a bottle by distilling the essence of 1970s cardboard into a slick, modern collector’s set honoring over four decades of baseball card history.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE 2017

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Topps baseball cards are among the most popular and valuable trading cards in the world. Each year Topps produces new sets that commemorate that year’s Major League Baseball season. While the majority of cards in each year’s set have little monetary value, some cards can be extremely valuable depending on factors like the player featured, how rare the particular card is, and its condition. This article will examine the most valuable baseball cards from recent Topps sets and explore what factors influence a card’s worth.

One of the top cards from recent years is the 2009 Topps Update Kris Bryant autograph card. Bryant, then a highly touted prospect in the Chicago Cubs system, had his rookie autograph card included in the 2009 Topps Update set shortly after he was drafted. Since then, Bryant has developed into one of MLB’s biggest stars, winning the 2016 National League Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards while helping lead the Cubs to their first World Series title in over a century. The scarcity of Bryant cards from his earliest seasons in professional baseball coupled with his emerging superstardom have rocketed the value of this card. In gem mint condition, the 2009 Topps Update Kris Bryant autograph now commands prices consistently above $1,000 and has sold for as much as $2,500 in recent years.

Another massive riser from the last few years is the 2011 Topps Update version of Mike Trout’s rookie card. When first released Trout was considered one of the top Angels prospects but had yet to make his Major League debut. Since then, Trout has developed into a generational talent and widely considered the best player in baseball. He has now won two American League MVP awards and is a seven-time All Star. Like Bryant, Trout’s immense talent combined with the scarcity of cards from his earliest professional years have pushed values of the 2011 Topps Update Trout rookie sky high. Mint condition versions can now fetch $800-$1,000 while rare near-mint copies have sold for over $2,000.

Aside from young stars like Bryant and Trout before they broke out, iconic veterans can also yield valuable return. A perfect example is the iconic 1969 Topps complete set which featured major stars like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Roberto Clemente in their primes. This was the height of the classic cardboard era and design aesthetics were at their peak. Entire 1969 Topps sets in pristine mint condition have smashed records, selling for upwards of $100,000 in recent years. Individual high-grade copies of stars’ rookie or best years can also command thousands. For example, a 1968 Topps complete high-number set with a Babe Ruth card graded near-mint recently went for $37,000 at auction.

Condition is everything when it comes to card values. While rarer older issues hold more cachet due to nostalgia and production runs, their worth is closely tied to how well they’ve been preserved. A creased or worn example will be worth fractions of a sharp copy in top condition. Topps cards from the late 80s and 90s are a perfect example – issues like the ultra-popular 1994 Topps Stadium Club set featuring star rookies like Chipper Jones have gained appreciation among collectors but gem mint 10 copies can be $100+ while a well-worn copy may go for just a few bucks. Similarly, while a common 1990 Topps Frank Thomas rookie in poor shape might sell for $5-10, a pristine mint copy could fetch 6 figures. Condition standards like the 1-10 grading scale from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett have brought transparency and standardized pricing.

Players enshrined in Cooperstown also hold cachet. Icons tend to have earlier cards preserved more due to nostalgia while their Cooperstown induction triggers renewed collector interest. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card captured “The Commerce Comet” in his second season and ranks among the holy grails of the hobby. High-grade copies changed hands for over $100,000 in recent times. Other HOFers with valuable vintage Topps issues include Stan Musial, Warren Spahn, and Ted Williams. Although superstars and key rookie cards draw top dollar, lesser players can also gain collector value if attached to a historically significant season or achievement. For example, cards featuring 1951 New York Giants players from their “Miracle” pennant win over the Dodgers have appreciated. But only pristine versions warrant true expense.

While mint condition vintage cards top the value charts, some modern parallels and short prints also fetch impressive prices due to rarity. Topps flagship sets have added “refractor” parallel versions with alternate color or refractor textures since the mid 90s that are inserted much less frequently than the base cards. Ultra-rare 1/1 printing plates engraved with a player’s image also exist. These scarce parallel versions significantly drive up costs, even for recent players. For example, 2014 Topps Five Star Miguel Sano autographs with a gold border refractor parallel numbering around 10 copies or less have changed hands for over $8,000 each in mint shape.

Top values in the 2017 vintage baseball card market are concentrated among impossibly rare Honus Wagner T206s, ultra-high grade vintage rookie stars, and young current standouts with scarce early issues. Condition is king and influences value more than any other factor. Meanwhile, short print modern parallels from premium sets can also produce investment returns competitive with far older material due to extremely limited quantities. The enduring popularity of Topps cards, changing perceptions of memorable baseball seasons and players, and technical innovations all contribute to a highly dynamic marketplace. With care and diligence, both vintage relics and recent acquisitions offer collectors potentially lucrative opportunities.

2017 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SET

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The 2017 Topps Baseball card set was the 70th annual release from Topps. The flagship main set featured a total of 306 base cards that highlighted the most prominent MLB players from the 2016 season. Some key highlights and features of the 2017 Topps Baseball set included:

Design & Photography – The design theme for the 2017 set featured photography that had a more minimalistic approach than prior years. Rather than busy backgrounds, most cards had a simple color gradient behind the player photos. The photo quality remained crisp and clear. On the front of each card was the team logo along with the player’s name, uniform number and position.

Top Rated Rookies – Some of the top rated rookie cards from the 2017 debut included Yankees OF Clint Frazier (card #193), Dodgers C Will Smith (card #212), and Braves OF Ronald Acuna Jr. (card #235). While Acuna would go on to have a legendary career, his rookie card held a relatively modest value in its initial release year compared to future expectations.

Parallels & Inserts – Beyond the base cards, Topps included several parallel and insert sets that added numerous chase cards for collectors. The most coveted included the 5-card Gold parallel (/50), Rainbow Foil parallel (/25), and Red Refractor parallel (/5). Popular multi-player inserts focused on special accomplishments like Postseason Performers and All-Star cards.

Baseball Greats – As with past years, Topps paid tribute to legends of the game with vintage “Turn Back The Clock” photo reprints of stars from previous eras. The 2017 set featured cards of Hall of Famers including Gary Carter (card #163), Tony Gwynn (card #229), and Harmon Killebrew (card #292).

Memorable Moments – Unique snapshot cards highlighted iconic MLB moments from the 2016 season. Examples included Cubs 3B Kris Bryant’s home run in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series (card #81) and Cubs LF Ben Zobrist being lifted by teammates after Chicago won its first title in over a century (card #98).

Yu Darvish Red Refractor 1/1 – In what became one of the more famous one-of-one cards ever produced, Rangers pitcher Yu Darvish’s Red Refractor parallel had a printing plate misprint on the front. Instead of his name and stats on the back, it simply said “1/1”. After a heated eBay auction, it became the highest price paid for a modern baseball card at over $100,000.

Card Design Evolution – While maintaining its traditional look, Topps made some minor refinements to the card stock, composition and layout compared to recent years. The borders were slightly thinner and the player photos a tad larger for improved overall appearance. Feedback on the 2017 design was very positive from the collecting community.

Value & Availability – With significant interest in the hobby continuing to grow, the 2017 Topps Baseball set saw robust initial demand and values held relatively steady one year after release. Common base cards could be acquired for under $1 each online or at card shops. Rarer inserts, parallels and star rookies had assigned Grey Sheet valuations in the $5-50 range on average.

The 2017 Topps Baseball release was another strong annual set that successfully blended classic elements with contemporary photography and design sensibilities. While not breaking major new ground, it maintained Topps’ position as the leading brand in the baseball card marketplace through quality construction, memorable content and wide accessibility for collectors both casual and dedicated. The inclusion of such coveted short printed parallel cards as the Darvish 1/1 ensured the 2017 offering remained a vibrant and engaging release that collectors were keen to add to their collections for years to come.

2017 TOPPS BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Baseball series featured several young stars who made their MLB debuts in 2016 or 2017 that collectors searched packs for. Top rookies included Corey Seager, nomadic slugger Joey Gallo, and lightning-bolted center fielder Adam Engel among others. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top rookie cards from the 2017 Topps Baseball set.

Leading the class with one of the finest rookie seasons of all-time was Corey Seager of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 23-year old shortstop batted .308 with 26 home runs and 72 RBI in his rookie campaign, winning both NL Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards. Seager’s rookie card #232 is one of the gems of the 2017 Topps set. With a clean photoshoot style showing his batting stance, the card features a sharp focusing effect drawing the eye to Seager. Many consider this one of the premier rookie cards of the past decade already.

Joey Gallo of the Texas Rangers followed up a strong 2015 debut by hitting 40 home runs in 2016 despite batting only .204. Gallo’s prodigious power makes him a constant trade deadline rumor, and collectors were high on his 2017 Topps rookie card #285 from the start. Gallo stares down from the card with a fierce intensity, emphasizing the no-nonsense approach he brings to the plate. Expect this cardboard to keep rising as Gallo’s career progresses.

Making his first extended MLB appearance in 2017 was Adam Engel of the Chicago White Sox. Hampered by injuries in the minors, Engel exploded on the scene by displaying elite defensive skills and surprising pop at the plate. His 2017 Topps RC #394 shows Engel patrolling centerfield with grace, highlighting why scouts saw his 5-tool potential for years. As the White Sox continue building, Engel may emerge as a true breakout.

Staying in the AL Central, Josh Bell became a young cornerstone for the Pittsburgh Pirates after switching from catcher. With a simple headshot pose, Bell’s 2017 Topps rookie card #77 understatedly acknowledged his arrival. Now an All-Star slugging first baseman, Bell’s card remains affordable but holds steady appreciation.

Dominic Smith was considered the Mets top prospect, though injuries stalled his rise. His 2017 Topps RC #468 projected further stardom with a dynamic action photo of Smith pulling the ball. While playing time issues still linger in New York, Smith remains a prime candidate to emerge if given an extended look. This card reflects his hype from a few years ago.

Other noteworthy rookies from the 2017 Topps Baseball set include Astros teammates Alex Bregman and Francis Martes, Dodgers hurler Julio Urias, Orioles frontman Trey Mancini, Brewers flamethrower Josh Hader, and Cardinals jack-of-all-trades Harrison Bader. Each offer varying levels of upside and affordability for collectors.

As the careers of players like Seager, Gallo, and Engel continue advancing, their early rookie cards stand to gain even more recognition and demand. The 2017 Topps Baseball release housed many emerging talents that remain works in progress for collectors. For fans of the hobby and the game itself, hunting these rookie RCs makes for an entertaining interweaving of cardboard and on-field success.