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2017 TOPPS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Baseball set featured some of the most exciting rookie cards and veteran star cards in recent years. The design had a classic vintage feel paying homage to Topps sets from the 1960s and 70s. With cards featuring current superstars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Clayton Kershaw, as well as rookie cards for future stars like Cody Bellinger and Aaron Judge, the 2017 Topps Baseball set had no shortage of highly sought after cards.

One of the most iconic rookie cards from the 2017 Topps Baseball set was the Aaron Judge rookie card. Judge had a breakout rookie season in 2017 for the New York Yankees, hitting 52 home runs which set a new rookie record. His dominant rookie year led to huge demand for his Topps rookie card. The base Aaron Judge rookie is a relatively common pull from packs and boxes. Due to his record-setting season and star potential, PSA 10 gem mint versions of his rookie card have sold for over $10,000, making it one of the most valuable modern rookie cards ever printed.

Another hugely popular rookie from the 2017 Topps set was Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers. While he didn’t have the mammoth rookie season that Judge did, Bellinger still hit 39 home runs in his first year. His smooth lefty swing and athleticism made him an instant star on one of baseball’s most popular franchises. PSA 10 versions of Bellinger’s rookie card have also cracked the $1000 price point. Bellinger went on to win NL Rookie of the Year in 2017 and has become a perennial MVP candidate, making his rookie one of the safest long term investments from the 2017 Topps set.

Aside from the star rookies, the 2017 Topps set featured several short printed parallels and insert cards that have become highly valuable. One of the most sought after is the Mike Trout rainbow foil parallel card. Numbered to only /99 copies, Trout rainbow foil cards regularly sell for over $1000 in mint condition due to Trout’s status as one of the best players of his generation. The flagship Topps Chrome refractors are also extremely popular for star players. Refractors of stars like Bryce Harper, Clayton Kershaw, and Mookie Betts can fetch hundreds of dollars.

The 2017 Topps Archives photo variation insert set also contained several valuable and desirable cards. Featuring unique historical action photos of star players, the Archives set paid tribute to the classic Topps photography of the 1960’s. Rares cards like the Nolan Ryan variation have sold for over $500. The Topps Gallery of Greats insert set honoring retired legends like Hank Aaron and Willie Mays are also highly sought after by collectors looking to build full rainbow sets.

While base rookie cards and short prints garner most of the attention in the high-end market, 2017 Topps Baseball offered fun and affordable collecting options as well. The Allen & Ginter mini baseball card inserts featuring wood textures were a unique twist on the typical cardboard cards. Players like Kris Bryant and Noah Syndergaard had cute and collectible mini versions of their cards. The Heritage minor league photo variations also captured the nostalgia of minor league parks and uniforms. For fans looking to affordably collect entire teams or players, the 2017 Topps set provided fun parallels and inserts at reasonable price points.

The 2017 Topps Baseball set featured some of the most iconic modern rookie cards like Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger. Short printed parallels of stars and valuable inserts captured the vintage aesthetics that made 1960’s and 70’s Topps designs so beloved. Whether chasing superstars, building teams, or collecting fun parallels, the 2017 Topps Baseball set had wide appeal for both investors and fans. Years from now, rookie cards like Judge and Bellinger as well as 1/1 printing plates and refractor parallels of all-time greats will surely be remembered as highlights from one of the most memorable Topps releases in recent memory.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO BUY 2017

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The baseball card market continues to be a lucrative hobby for collectors. With each new season comes a new crop of rookie cards and veterans reaching milestones that make certain cards very desirable. As we head into the 2017 baseball season, here are some of the best baseball cards to consider adding to your collection this year based on player performance, career achievements, and future potential.

Mike Trout 2014 Topps Update Rookie Card – Widely considered one of the greatest players of this generation, Mike Trout has established himself as a true superstar in just his first few seasons in the big leagues. His 2014 Topps Update rookie card remains one of the hottest modern rookie cards on the market. With 4 MVP awards already and a career still in its prime, Trout cards hold tremendous long term value. The 2014 Update rookie is one of the more affordable Trout cards to acquire, but still carries a several hundred dollar price tag for high grade copies.

Bryce Harper 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Superfractor – At just 24 years old, Bryce Harper has already racked up an NL ROY award, NL MVP, 2 Silver Sluggers, and was named to his 4th All-Star team in 2016. The hype around Harper was immense coming out of high school, making his ultra-rare 2009 Bowman Chrome Superfractor one of the true Holy Grails for collectors. Only 5 of these 1/1 parallel cards are known to exist. Valued well into the 5 figures for a true gem mint copy, this is an iconic card that will hold value as Harper’s career progresses.

Kris Bryant 2015 Topps Update RC – Winning NL ROY in 2015 was just the beginning for Kris Bryant. He followed that up by leading the Cubs to their first World Series title in over a century in 2016. Bryant’s smooth left-handed swing and all-around skills point to a likely future Hall of Fame career. His flagship rookie from 2015 Update is a strong long term investment, and high grade versions can still be acquired for under $200.

Corey Seager 2016 Topps Update RC – At just 22 years old, Corey Seager took the NL by storm in 2016 by winning ROY honors while helping power the Dodgers to the NL West title. Seager possesses a complete all-around game and should be a mainstay at shortstop for the Dodgers for years to come. His rookie card from 2016 Update is still quite affordable compared to other young stars, but prices are steadily rising as Seager cements his status as a true franchise cornerstone.

Aaron Judge 2017 Topps Series 1 RC – It may be too early to tell just how good Aaron Judge can become, but his tremendous power potential was on full display during his impressive rookie season with the Yankees in 2017. Standing at an imposing 6’7″, Judge launched 52 home runs, setting a new rookie record. His flagship rookie card from 2017 Topps Series 1 will likely hold value long term as collectors watch Judge’s career play out. High grade copies have already cracked the $100 price point.

Mookie Betts 2014 Topps Update RC – At just 24 years old, Mookie Betts has already established himself as one of the game’s premier young outfielders. The 2016 AL batting champion is coming off a 2016 season where he hit .318 with 31 home runs and 113 RBI. Betts’ smooth all-around game and youth indicate he has Hall of Fame potential. His 2014 Update rookie remains quite affordable compared to superstars of similar age like Trout and Harper, but that will likely not remain the case for long as Betts’ career blossoms.

Fernando Tatis Jr. 2017 Topps Series 1 RC – Scouts have raved about Fernando Tatis Jr.’s raw tools and athleticism since he was a teenager. After hitting .278 with 16 home runs across A-Ball and Double-A in 2017, Tatis Jr. looks poised to rocket up prospect rankings and perhaps debut with the Padres as early as 2018 at just 19 years old. The son of the former big leaguer Fernando Tatis, Jr. has tantalizing upside that makes his flagship 2017 rookie card a worthwhile longshot investment at its current affordable price point.

Clayton Kershaw 2010 Topps Update RC – Already owning 3 Cy Young awards and a career 2.39 ERA at just 29 years old, Clayton Kershaw has firmly established himself as the best pitcher of his generation. The smooth lefty is still in his prime and tracking to put together a true Hall of Fame career resumé. Kershaw’s rookie card from 2010 Topps Update remains quite affordable compared to the dominance he has shown on the mound for nearly a decade now. This is a card that will retain value for decades as Kershaw’s place among the game’s all-time greats is cemented.

Noah Syndergaard 2014 Topps Update RC – At just 24 years old, Noah Syndergaard has already emerged as the ace of the Mets staff and one of the most dominating power pitchers in baseball today. “Thor” possesses an electric fastball that routinely touches triple digits along with a devastating slider. If he can stay healthy, a Cy Young award may not be far off. Syndergaard’s rookie card from 2014 Update is still quite affordable and will likely rise steadily as his career progresses and accolades are achieved.

Cody Bellinger 2017 Topps Series 1 RC – The 2017 season was a true coming out party for Cody Bellinger. The athletic first baseman/outfielder launched 39 home runs as a 21-year old rookie to set a new Dodgers franchise record. Bellinger possesses prodigious raw power to all fields and could be a perennial 40-homer threat for years to come. His flagship rookie card from 2017 Topps Series 1 is still quite affordable and will likely rise significantly as Bellinger establishes himself as a true superstar.

Christian Yelich 2013 Bowman Chrome RC – At just 25 years old, Christian Yelich has already developed into a true five-tool talent for the Marlins and Brewers. The smooth lefty batter consistently hits for average and power while providing Gold Glove caliber defense in the outfield. Yelich is still in the early stages of what could be a Hall of Fame career. His desirable rookie card from 2013 Bowman Chrome remains quite affordable compared to similar aged superstars and is a strong long term investment.

This covers some of the top young stars and prospects whose cards are excellent buys heading into 2017. Focusing on rookies and young players who have shown superstar potential and are still establishing themselves allows collectors to acquire flagship cards at affordable prices that will likely rise significantly as their careers progress. Established veterans nearing milestones can also provide strong short term gains. By doing research on a player’s tools, pedigree and career trajectory, savvy collectors can identify cards poised to greatly increase in value for years to come. The baseball card market remains a profitable hobby for those who do their homework.

2017 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Bowman Baseball card set was full of exciting rookies and prospects for collectors to chase. With its retro design that pays homage to cards of the past, Bowman has become one of the premier brands for finding the next generation of superstars before they reach the majors. This 2017 edition contained a treasure trove of players that have since become household names.

Some of the biggest rookie cards in the 2017 Bowman set included future MVPs and all-stars like Cody Bellinger, Whit Merrifield, and Rhys Hoskins. Bellinger’s scintillating rookie season that helped lead the Dodgers to the World Series put him on the map in a big way and his Bowman cards skyrocketed in value as a result. Likewise, Hoskins made his highly anticipated debut for the Phillies in August of that year and immediately demonstrated his elite power skills that would make him a fan favorite.

Merrifield wasted no time making an impact either, establishing himself as the Royals effective leadoff hitter and two-time all-star. His blend of hitting ability and defensive versatility proved he belonged in the majors from day one. With such standout performers finding success so soon after collectors could acquire them as rookies in 2017 Bowman, it’s no wonder the set attracted such a strong following.

Beyond just the future stars, Bowman offered a first glimpse at the next wave of prospects still developing in the minor leagues. Names like Victor Robles, Kyle Tucker, Willie Calhoun, and Gavin Lux were heralded as can’t-miss talents and collectors jumped at the chance to add their rookie cards knowing their values had huge upside. While injuries slowed Robles’ progress to the majors slightly, Tucker, Calhoun, and Lux all became solid big leaguers right on schedule.

Having those rookie cards of top prospects before their call-ups satisfied that thrill of the hunt that makes card collecting so exciting. And with the depth of talent showcased in 2017 Bowman, collectors had no shortage of options to pursue. Whether going after stars who were already performing or future stars still in the minors, Bowman gave an early peek at the next great players.

The paper stock on 2017 Bowman cards maintained the vintage aesthetic Bowman has become known for with its thick, high-quality cardboard feel. But what truly set this release apart were the innovative inserts and parallels that added numerous hit possibilities. The Five Tool inserts spotlighted a specific tool for each featured player like Contact, Power, Speed, Arm, or Defense. This provided a fun new lens to examine prospects’ skills and gave multiple parallel variations to collect for each.

The Trajectory inserts took things a step further by projecting a statistical path to stardom for players. Charts predicted future batting averages, home run totals, and WAR through a hypothetical six-year career. While obviously speculative, it brought an interesting scouting and analytical perspective that Bowman fans embraced. Rainbow foil, red, and sepia parallel versions of the base rookie cards became coveted short prints to locate in packs as well.

Specialized sets within 2017 Bowman like Black, Blue, Green, and Orange Wave parallelled the base cards with distinctive colors and even lower print runs. The Black Wave parallel in particular stood out with its sleek all-black borders. With so many parallel and insert sets available throughout the different Bowman products from packs to boxes, there was incredible chase appeal regardless of collector’s budget or interests.

The 2017 Bowman Baseball card release showed why the brand remains the premier destination for rookie card enthusiasts. By spotlighting a stellar freshman class before they made their pro debuts as well as heralded prospects still climbing the minor league ranks, Bowman captured the next wave of baseball’s brightest young stars. With its retro designs and innovative insert sets, the 2017 edition excited fans both as an on-Product to open as well as long-term investments. Several of the rookies featured like Bellinger, Merrifield, and Hoskins went on to superstardom, turning their early Bowman cards into highly valuable keys to the set due to authenticating their potential before they made the majors. For these reasons, 2017 Bowman Baseball stands out as one of the most memorable and collectible issues in the last decade.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2017

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Topps baseball cards are among the most iconic collectibles in sports. In 2017, Topps celebrated its 65th anniversary of producing Major League Baseball cards. Some of the notable highlights of their 2017 release include:

Series 1 was released on January 25th, 2017 and featured current MLB stars on the base cards along with various inserts. Many fans consider the base cards from Series 1 as the standard issues that kick off each new season. Elite talents like Mike Trout, Kris Bryant, and Miguel Cabrera graced thecoveted base rookie cards. Additionally, Topps introduced “Greats of the Game” subset highlighting legends like Hank Aaron, Stan Musial, and Sandy Koufax. The early release helps build excitement leading up to Opening Day.

Series 2 followed on March 8th continuing with base cards highlighting all 30 MLB teams. Notable rookies in this series included Corey Seager of the Dodgers and Nomar Mazara of the Rangers. Topps also included “Tribute” cards honoring past stars. The “Captains” insert set showcased current players who exemplify leadership qualities for their respective franchises like Buster Posey for the Giants. “Flashback Fridays” included retro-styled cards from the 1970s. Insert sets provided valuable chase cards for collectors.

Heritage Minors, released on April 26th, delved into the minor league systems spotlighting top prospects. Future superstars like Gleyber Torres and Eloy Jimenez received flashy rookie cards through this set prior to their MLB debuts. Packs also contained “Futures Game” cards highlighting the top minor leaguers participating in the annual mid-summer prospect showcase. It gave collectors an early glimpse at tomorrow’s stars currently developing in the minors.

Series 3 hit the shelves on June 7th and like the prior two base sets, featured all 30 clubs. Rookies in this series included Andrew Benintendi, Dansby Swanson, and Andrew Triggs. Notable inserts included “Faces of the Franchise” honoring iconic players from each team’s history. “Relics” included game-used memorabilia swatches and autographs of both current and past stars to satisfy collectors pursuing authentic pieces of uniform history.

Heritage High Numbers released on July 12th and complemented the flagship “Heritage” set released earlier in the year by Topps. It provided an opportunity to collect additional player cards that did not make the initial cut. Rookies included Rhys Hoskins and Cody Bellinger who made strong early season impressions. Inserts continued several retro-styles introduced in the main Heritage release in addition to new “High Tech” cards incorporating a futuristic aesthetic.

Topps Chrome hit the market on August 2nd and contained the same base roster as Series 3 but printed on Chrome cardboard giving the cards a shimmery refractor effect prized by collectors. Considered the high-end flagship set, Chrome cards carry a significant premium. Their rarity amplifies as future Hall of Famers achieve MLB milestones and accomplishments. Rookies in this coveted set included Aaron Judge prior to his record-breaking rookie season. Chrome also featured several valuable autograph and memorabilia insert sets.

Allen & Ginter made its return on August 30th after a one-year hiatus with a fun, unique theme embracing art, literature, music, and history in addition to baseball. Rather than focusing solely on MLB players, the set featured historical figures like Harriet Tubman alongside athletes from multiple sports. Inserts contained artwork capturing diverse genres to broaden the collecting appeal beyond strict baseball devotees. Its eclectic style offered a refreshing change of pace.

Series 4 closed out Topps’ 2017 baseball card season on September 6th. By this stage, many rookies from the first few sets had made their debuts including Cody Bellinger and Rhys Hoskins who exploded onto the scene. Notable veterans like Yadier Molina and Miguel Cabrera anchored the final series. Topps incorporated additional photo variations throughout its four base sets adding to the suspense of each pack ripped. Collectors eagerly anticipated who they may pull in a unique pose or uniform number.

Topps clearly demonstrated its enduring commitment to serving baseball card aficionados spanning all levels through its comprehensive 2017 offering. While the company reigns as the undisputed industry leader, competitors like Panini and Leaf also make valuable contributions expanding the thriving hobby. Overall, 2017 emphasized Topps’ knack for innovation balanced with nostalgia through beloved retro sets, inserts showcasing game-worn memorabilia, and spotlighting MLB’s next generation of stars rising through the minor leagues. Their brand and flagship products remain synonymous with America’s pastime six decades later.

HOUSTON ASTROS 2017 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Houston Astros had one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history, winning their first World Series title. As a result, the baseball cards from Topps, Panini, and other card companies chronicling the 2017 Astros are highly sought after by collectors today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key cards from that championship year.

The centerpiece of any baseball card set is generally the team’s biggest stars and best players. For the 2017 Astros, that meant cards of Jose Altuve, George Springer, Carlos Correa, and Justin Verlander were highly anticipated. Jose Altuve had another massive season in 2017, winning his third batting title with a .346 average. His iconic leap after hitting a walk-off home run in Game 2 of the ALCS ended up being one of the defining images of thepostseason. Altuve’s core rookie card from Topps remains one of the priciest in the hobby, but collectors enjoyed pulling his dazzling photo and stats from ’17.

George Springer also cemented himself as a true superstar in ’17, batting .283 with 34 home runs and 104 RBIs en route to World Series MVP honors. His dynamic play in center field and timely hitting made him a fan favorite. Springer’s ’17 Topps card shows him in mid-swing with terrific action. Carlos Correa had another All-Star caliber year at just 23 years old, providing stellar defense at shortstop while batting .315 with 15 homers. Correa emerged as a clutch postseason performer as well. Meanwhile, Justin Verlander was acquired from Detroit at the trade deadline and proved to be the final missing piece, going 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA in the regular season after the deal. He then led the Astros to the title by winning both Games 2 and 6 of the World Series on the mound.

In addition to stars, baseball card collectors love commemorative cards marking special team accomplishments. For the ’17 Astros, the obvious choice was a World Series Champions card featuring the whole championship roster. Topps captured the celebratory dogpile photo on the field at Dodger Stadium after the final out. There were also special parallel “Gold” and “Silver” versions printed with lower numbers, adding to the prestige. Similarly, Panini produced an Astronomical Moments insert card showing the team toasting champagne in the clubhouse with the Commissioners Trophy. Both are apt keepsakes for any Astros fan.

Beyond the biggest names, collectors enjoyed finding cards of other important ’17 Astros like Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton, Lance McCullers Jr., and Josh Reddick. Keuchel rebounded from an off 2016 with a solid 14-5 record and helped anchor the rotation. As the #3 starter, Charlie Morton came up big in the postseason with a 1.80 ERA over 5 games. Young righty Lance McCullers showed promise when healthy, and Josh Reddick proved a perfect fit in Houston, batting .281 with 13 homers. even role players like Evan Gattis and marwin gonzalez had memorable moments.

Of course, complete sets require cards highlighting accomplishments beyond stats and games. Topps produced an “Autograph Party” insert set where Astros autographed mini cards that were serial numbered to 99 or less. Other inserts in Topps Series 2 highlighted the team’s road to the championship, from “Pennant Winners” to “World Series Champs” parallels. Upper Deck also created “Masterpieces” parallels with crystal-clear photos on 1-of-1 serial numbered cards. Panini went above and beyond with patches and autographs on “Galaxy” parallel inserts as nice bonus content.

Naturally, the most diehard Astros collectors pursued 1-of-1 relic and autograph cards created by premium manufacturers. Examples include Justin Verlander autographs on Diamond Kings cards with serial numbers starting at 1/1, or “Prime Cuts” swatches with serial numbers personally chosen by the player. Higher-end products from Donruss, Leaf, and Triple Threads featured autographs combined with swatches from jerseys or bats for ultimate rarities. Such one-of-a-kind treasures will surely retain huge value for years to come.

In the years since their 2017 title, the Astros have remained one of baseball’s elite franchises. Those championship cards commemorating the first World Series victory in Houston serve as important historical artifacts of that special season. With Hall of Famers like Altuve and Correa leading the way, and Verlander and Springer playing crucial roles, it was truly a magical year deserving of its place in the hobby. Any collector who can add a piece of that 2017 team to their collection should feel incredibly fortunate.

2017 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 2017 Topps Baseball card set is the 56th annual release from the flagship baseball card company Topps. As with each year, Topps released a variety of products in 2017 including Series 1, Series 2, Chrome, Allen & Ginter, Heritage, Stadium Club and Update Series among others. This article provides an in-depth look at the primary checklist of cards from the 2017 Topps Baseball base set and some of the special parallel and insert cards collectors can find.

The 2017 Topps Series 1 cards were released in late February/early March with a checklist of 332 total cards. This included base cards numbered 1-332 for all 30 MLB teams. Some of the notable rookies included in Series 1 were Corey Seager, Trevor Story, Andrew Benintendi, Tyler Glasnow, Michael Fulmer and A.J. Reed. Veteran stars featured prominently as well with cards of Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, Buster Posey and others.

The design of the 2017 Topps base cards took on a classic look with a solid color frame surrounding each player photo. Statistics, team logos and borders were featured in a simple style. The most obvious change from recent years was the placement of the foil sticker autograph on the lower right side of the card rather than centered below the photo. Parallel versions of the base cards included the traditional ‘Gold Label’ parallels numbered to 50 or less as well as Orange and Blue Refractors that added bursts of color among the checklist.

Topps Series 2 was released in late May/early June with a checklist of 204 cards continuing the rookies and stars from Series 1. New rookie additions included Cody Bellinger, Dansby Swanson, Austin Meadows and Chad Kuhl among others. The Series 2 base design largely repeated the classic look from Series 1 but added extras like team banners above the name plates. Parallels in Series 2 included the Traditions photo variations, Platimum parallels and Green /Orange Refractors at reduced print runs.

A key insert set spanning both Series 1 and 2 was the ‘Topps Now’ real-time moments cards. These captured exciting and historical single-game performances immediately after they occurred. Players featured included Aaron Judge’s MLB debut home run and Tommy Pham’s cycle among many others. The Topps Now cards helped chronicle a memorable 2017 regular season in near real-time.

Topps Chrome was released in late August continuing the popular refractors theme. The base design adopted a cleaner look compared to the heritage feel of the base series. Stars on the checklist included rookie standouts Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger plus veterans Mike Trout, Kris Bryant etc. The crown jewel parallels in Chrome were the prizm parallels available in purple, orange, green and red color variations at extremely low print runs.

Allen & Ginter made its return as Topps annual high-end release in July. The checklist combined current MLB players with other subjects including actresses, authors and historic figures. Rookie phenoms like Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger still received base cards but the true chasing cards were the mini autographs and memorabilia cards serially numbered to899 copies or less. The retro design sense and allure of hit cards made Allen & Ginter one of the most coveted sets again in 2017.

Topps Heritage was released in two series spanning March to June capturing the retro design styles of the 1960’s-1970’s era. The checklist combined both active players and team designs from that time period. Rookies accompanied star veterans under the vintage logos and colors in designs paying homage to the 1967, 1969 and 1972 designs among others. Parallel versions included gilded foil, sepia and green parallel subsets in the tradition of the original designs. Heritage became a fan favorite way to mix both the old and new in 2017.

Topps Stadium Club debuted in late September with its high-end photography approach to cards. The design stripped away all unnecessary clutter to let the large crisp player photos take center stage. Members of the 2017 rookie class such as Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger looked impressive alongside veterans like Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw. The premiere hit cards involved dual and triple memorabilia and autograph combinations serially numbered to 10 copies or less. Stadium Club delivered the best photo quality cards of the year capped off by 1/1 Platimum parallel relic autos.

One of the final mainstream releases of 2017 came in November with Topps Update Series. It featured rookie debuted from the second half of the season such as Shohei Ohtani plus update cards for players who switched teams or roles. Parallels incorporated various color variations and printing plate autos. Despite coming late, Update delivered one of the most anticipated rookies while wrapping up team checklists for the season.

Throughout the year Topps also released mini-collections tied to specific themes or events including Stadium Club’s Record Breakers highlighting Aaron Judge’s home run chase. Final flagship products arrived in December with both the high number Series 2 cards and ending the year with Topps Transcendent recognizing Mike Trout’s greatness.

In total, Topps released over a dozen baseball card products in 2017 touching on nearly every possible collector niche or interest. Between the flagship releases, parallels, inserts, hit cards and more there was no shortage opportunity to build sets or find collecting thrills along the way. The rookie class was one of the strongest in years headlined by Aaron Judge while stars like Trout and Kershaw continued leading the way. For both new and seasoned collectors, 2017 offered a memorable year for Topps baseball cards.

2017 BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2017 baseball card season saw immense growth in the industry as card companies like Topps, Panini, and Bowman produced new sets with many stars who had breakout seasons in 2016. As a result, 2017 is considered one of the more valuable years for recent baseball cards. Many young players showed their potential and earned rookie cards that have increased substantially in value since release.

Some of the top rookie cards to emerge from 2017 sets include Cody Bellinger, Aaron Judge, Andrew Benintendi, Yoan Moncada, Dansby Swanson, and Amed Rosario. All of these players broke into the majors in 2016-2017 and immediately made an impact. Bellinger blasted 39 home runs for the Dodgers as a rookie, Judge smashed 52 homers for the Yankees, and Benintendi contributed solid all-around play for the Red Sox. Their flagship rookie cards have trended upwards due to these proven track records at the MLB level.

Bellinger’s Topps Chrome Update rookie auto parallel /99 has averaged over $500 recently due to his successive prolific seasons for Los Angeles. The standard Topps Chrome rookie sells for around $150-200 consistently. Aaron Judge’s Topps Series 2 Chrome Update rookie auto /99 regularly moves for $1,000+, with the standard Chrome going between $300-400 usually. Andrew Benintendi’s Topps Series 1 Blue Refractor auto /150 consistently hits the $400 range. Even rainbow foil parallels of Benintendi sell for $100.

Moncada, expected to be a star for the White Sox for years, has multiple Chrome Update rookie auto parallels valued north of $400. His Topps Chrome sells around $150. Swanson had a solid 2017 debut and should continue to improve. His Topps Chrome Update auto /99 sells for $250-300 often. Amed Rosario’s rooking season showed tantalizing talent, making his Topps Chrome Update auto /99 a $300 card. His standard Chrome is around $100 usually.

The breakout seasons of these players have created substantial demand for their flagship rookie cards across the board. While 2017 rookies of less impactful players don’t retain as much value, the crop of emerging stars kept consumer enthusiasm for 2017 products very high over subsequent years.

Beyond star rookies, established veterans on contending teams gained value as well. Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, Carlos Correa, Corey Seager, Francisco Lindor, Nolan Arenado, and Mookie Betts produced sensational seasons while leading their clubs to postseason berths and accolades. As a result, flagship cards depicting these superstars in popular 2017 sets like Topps Series 1, Topps Series 2, Stadium Club, and Topps Chrome surged in price.

Bryant’s Topps Series 1 base jumped up to a $15-20 range from around $8. Rizzo’s 2017 Stadium Club base regularly moves for $12-15. Correa’s Topps Update base commands $10+. Seager’s Topps Update Chrome sells for $8-10 frequently. Lindor’s flagship cards from flagship Topps series and Stadium Club stay in the $10-15 zone. Arenado’s 2017 Topps Series 1 base hovers around $12, while Mookie Betts’ Topps Update base often fetches $10 or so.

Beyond starring players, 2017 also contained popular subsets that gained significance. The Stadium Club ’60s design parallels attracted immense buyer interest. Any parallel under /50 of star players like Bryce Harper, Francisco Lindor, or Clayton Kershaw routinely sells over $100. Even base versions of popular veterans remain north of $15. Other subsets like Topps ’70s style, Topps ’86, and various framed parallels grew in demand as well due to their retro designs coupled with starring players.

Player movement also impacted 2017 values. Yankees starter Sonny Gray gained an immediate bump upon being traded from Oakland, as did Todd Frazier after joining the Yankees from Chicago. Rookies like Ian Happ gained attention arriving in Chicago’s stacked lineup from the minors. Jim Johnson gained collector interest after reuniting with Baltimore. Deals like these shifted collector focus to new uniforms and roles.

The excitement of breakout young players and contending teams in 2017 has left legacy for collectors. Rated rookie cards of emerging MLB stars remain actively traded and hold consistent premiums. Established veterans saw boosted values from outstanding campaigns. Popular special subsets and player movement provided diverse investment opportunities as well. 2017 thus cemented its place as a standout year for baseball memorabilia based on emerging talent and driven collector demand. The year’s cards remain liquid holdings retaining significance for both investors and fans alike.

2017 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 2017 Topps Baseball Card complete set marked another iconic year for the hobby’s leading brand. For over 65 years, Topps has defined the baseball card collecting landscape and in 2017 they released their signature annual flagship set featuring all 30 MLB teams. The complete set contains over 700 cards packed with colorful photography, detailed stats, and all the star players fans look forward to adding to their collections each season.

The design of the 2017 Topps set pays homage to classic Topps cards of past decades with a clean and simple layout. On the front of each card is a large vertical photo of the player surrounded by a white border. Their name, team, and position are printed above the photo while career stats and fun facts are featured below. The back of the cards contain more in-depth stats tables as well as career highlights. Many veteran collectors appreciated Topps returning to a more traditional aesthetic compared to some of the highly stylized and graphic-heavy designs of recent years.

Rookies and prospects were highly anticipated components as always. Potential future stars like Dansby Swanson, Andrew Benintendi, and Austin Meadows made their Topps debut. The coveted Update Series released half-way through the season as usual to add any new players who made an impact after the initial checklist was finalized in spring training. Notable call-ups like Cody Bellinger and Aaron Judge got their first flagship cards in the Update.

Insert sets within the 2017 Topps product line added variety for collectors. The ‘Topps Now’ cards were extremely popular with fans. These captured noteworthy MLB moments within the previous month through storytelling photography on the fronts of the cards. Topps introduced some new insert sets as well like ‘1957 Throwbacks’ and ‘Minis’ which featured 50 players across 5 mini card sheets per pack. Veteran players also received tribute cards highlighting their careers through unique retrospective photography.

Parallels and serial-numbered variations of regular base cards increased the excitement of the hobby box experience. Refractors, like the popular Topps Chrome set, featured select players with a refractive coating to make their images shine. Numbered parallel subsets within certain designated odds gave collectors a chase for even rarer finds. Gold foil parallels /50 or less were true chase cards. Autograph and memorabilia cards of the game’s biggest stars especially boosted the prestige of retail hobby products.

The 2017 Topps set had 525 base cards forming the backbone of the complete master set. Over 180 additional inserts, parallels, and variations filled out the rest. In total, the checklist contained over 700 unique cards when accounting for serial numbered variations. For dedicated collectors, acquiring the entire collection presented quite a task. Commons were readily available through value packs while chase cards required sorting through many expensive hobby boxes or buying singles online. Still, for many fans the journey was part of the fun of pursuing a complete 2017 Topps baseball set.

Secondary market popularity for the flagship release was robust. With increased collector demand combined with limited print runs, vintage Topps sets from the 1960s through 1980s have skyrocketed in aftermarket value in recent years. The modern era flagship sets including 2017 are establishing themselves as long-term classics that will retain collector interest decades from now. Already within just a few years of its release, high-grade 2017 Topps rookies and stars command respectable resale prices online. This bodes well for the set’s preservation as a historical account of that memorable 2017 MLB season.

In summary, Topps baseball cards continue delighting fans old and new with the timeless tradition of their annual flagship release. The 2017 edition showcased the cream of that year’s crop of MLB talent through a classic yet modern design aesthetic. Between the dynamic rookie class, fun inserts, and parallel chasing thrills – the complete 2017 Topps set delivered everything collectors look forward to each spring. With its place securely within the legendary lineage of Topps sets before it, the 2017 offering is undoubtedly already considered a prized collection among today’s dedicated baseball memorabilia enthusiasts.

BEST 2017 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from the industry leader. With photography and designs that captured the essence of the game, this set had many collector favorites that have become highly sought after in the years since. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best 2017 Topps baseball cards.

One of the most iconic rookie cards from the set was the Aaron Judge rookie card. Judge’s massive breakout season with the Yankees in 2017 saw him hit 52 home runs, breaking Mark McGwire’s rookie record. Topps perfectly captured Judge’s towering presence on the card with a close-up headshot showing his intimidating size. The photo along with his impressive rookie stats made this one of the most valuable rookie cards in recent memory. PSA 10 examples now sell for thousands of dollars.

Another hugely popular rookie was Cody Bellinger’s card. The Dodgers first baseman had a phenomenal debut campaign, hitting 39 home runs and winning the NL Rookie of the Year award. His simple yet effective Topps design highlighted his smooth left-handed swing. Like Judge, Bellinger became the face of his franchise’s future and his rookie card price rose accordingly. High-grade versions can fetch over $1000.

For National League MVP winner Giancarlo Stanton, Topps delivered with an incredible action shot on his base card. Stanton is captured mid-swing, his massive muscles flexed as he drives the ball. At the time with the Marlins, it was a perfect teaser for the power he would display all season. After being traded to the Yankees, this card gained popularity as a piece of Marlins history before Stanton’s move.

The design for Cubs star Kris Bryant’s base card stood out with its unique vertical photo positioning. Bryant is depicted perfectly centered with his classic left-handed stance. The dynamic head-on angle makes the card really pop. Combined with Bryant’s status as a cornerstone for the World Series champion Cubs, this became a must-have for collectors of the 2016 NL MVP.

For sheer nostalgia and design excellence, the Turn Back The Clock insert set was hugely popular. Topps selected iconic photos from the past and overlaid them with a vintage-styled border. Cards like the Sandy Koufax and Roberto Clemente were instant classics. The design paid homage to the early years of the hobby in a classy, understated way.

Topps Chrome, as always, had some true gems due to the refractor parallel technology. The prized 1-of-1 prizm parallel of Judge’s rookie refractor sold at auction for a record $100,000. But even the standard chrome versions of stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Clayton Kershaw gained immense collector demand. The refractors added an extra layer of visual appeal to some of the set’s premier cards.

Autograph cards were a major area of focus for high-end collectors. Superfractor autographs like the 1/1 Aaron Judge autographed refractor became the holy grails. But signed rookies of future stars like Bellinger, Andrew Benintendi, and Dansby Swanson gained value as they excelled. International signatures added diversity, such as a Yu Darvish auto or Carlos Correa.

Topps Finest took the photography and designs to a cinematic level. The parallels in this ultra-premium product really popped with color. Reds star Joey Votto had one of the best Finest cards with a dramatic action shot in bright green parallel. Finest became the top choice for true aficionados seeking the best presentation of the players.

In terms of sheer rarity and collector demand, the 1/1 printing plates remained white hot commodities. Examples like the Judge plate auto or Clayton Kershaw negative plate captivated the high-end market. While out of reach for most collectors price-wise, they represented the pinnacle achievement for a player’s card in the set.

In summation, the 2017 Topps release had no shortage of true classics whether it was the iconic rookie cards of Judge and Bellinger or innovative designs in Finest and Chrome. Several years later, many of these cards have become even more coveted and valuable as the players’ careers have progressed. The photography, parallels and autographs solidified this set’s place as one of the most memorable in recent years. It will be interesting to see how the long-term collector valuations play out but 2017 Topps has certainly created its fair share of modern baseball card legends.

2017 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Chrome baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from trading card giant Topps. As one of the premiere modern Chrome baseball card products on the market, 2017 Topps Chrome did not disappoint fans and collectors. The base set consisted of 175 total cards, including short prints and insert cards. Some of the biggest rookies and stars of the 2017 MLB season were featured prominently in the design, photography and chase inserts that made 2017 Topps Chrome a collector favorite.

Topps Chrome has risen to unprecedented popularity since its debut in the late 1990s by employing cutting-edge technology and photography to produce cards with dazzling, reflective designs unlike any other baseball card on the market. For 2017, Topps once again delivered glossy, high-quality images encapsulated in protective plastic coating that brought the players to life like never before. Vivid team logos and uniform colors practically jumped off the cards. Backgrounds provided interesting scenes from ballparks or actions shots that placed each player perfectly in context.

Some of the brightest young stars in baseball dominated the base set and short prints of 2017 Topps Chrome such as Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant, Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger, Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Yankees pitcher Luis Severino. Veterans like Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout and Noah Syndergaard also received prominent base card placements. The design featured mostly headshots of players against solid color backgrounds with team logos above their names. Statistics were placed on the bottom border along with copyright info. Parallels and serial numbering added to the nostalgia of the classic Chrome look.

Collector chase cards in 2017 Topps Chrome included the usual assortment of popular inserts such as All-Star, Diamond Kings and Galactic parallels. Two exciting new insert sets highlighted the player of the year candidates – Rookie Crusade and Postseason Performers. Rookie Crusade featured the top MLB rookie position players and pitchers vying for Rookie of the Year honors in photo collages from their debut seasons. Postseason Performers highlighted clutch playoff heroes from the 2016 season in posed action shots and team logo backgrounds harkening back to their October heroics. Both sets ended up eerily predicting the actual award winners like Bellinger and Corey Seager on the Rookie Crusade cards.

Perhaps the most notable short prints in 2017 Topps Chrome were the prized Retired Numbers parallels featuring MLB legends from every team who had their jersey retired like Derek Jeter, Hank Aaron and Nolan Ryan. These SPs placed the iconic stars in unique photographic poses and treatments befitting their hallowed status. Other popular parallel subsets included Stars of the Game, Gallery of Stars, Rainbow Foil and Frozen FX Frozen Moments captures. Serial numbering was kept tight on most parallels to keep collector demand high for the premier “hits” in the set.

Topps also flexed its creative muscle with fun oddball inserts in 2017 Topps Chrome. Players were reimagined as superheroes on the Comic Cuts cards with logos from DC and Marvel imprinted opposing. Kershaw even donned a Superman inspired costume fitting of his dominant abilities on the mound. Stranger Things premiered its second season in the fall of 2017 and Topps capitalized with Stranger Players mashups of stars photographed in the eerie Upside Down alternate dimension featured in the hit Netflix series.

On the secondary market, 2017 Topps Chrome packs initially sold for around $4-5 MSRP at release but singles, hits and parallels steadily appreciated as the season unfolded. Hall of Fame rookie cards and serial # parallels for stars like Aaron Judge routinely command $50-100 raw with higher grades bringing several hundreds. The full base set can be completed for under $50 but unique inserted parallel cards remain the real prizes. Several years after release, 2017 Topps Chrome endures as one of the finestChrome issuesdue to its stunning photography, accurate players checklist and fun theme inserts capturing the excitement of MLB’s 2017 season. Whether completing a base set or chasing after coveted short prints,2017 Topps Chrome provided a unique collecting experience that remains a favorite among baseball card aficionados to this day.