Tag Archives: 2021

BEST CARDS IN 2021 PANINI PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL

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The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball set had many highly sought after rookie cards for players drafted in the 2021 MLB Draft. While the long-term value of these cards remains to be seen as the players progress in their careers, there are already some clear standouts that have generated a lot of buzz in the hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best cards collectors were chasing from this year’s Prizm Draft Picks baseball release.

Perhaps the biggest star of the 2021 draft class was Vanderbilt pitcher Jack Leiter, who was selected second overall by the Texas Rangers. As the son of former big leaguer Al Leiter, Jack generated plenty of hype leading up to the draft. His rookie cards have unsurprisingly been some of the most popular from Prizm Draft Picks. The Leiter prizm parallel cards in particular hold premium value, as prizms are widely considered the top parallel set in the hobby. Of Leiter’s prizm cards, the red prizm /25 is the true short-print chase card due to the extremely low print run. Even his base prizm and silver prizms command big money due to the combination of his pedigree, draft slot, and on-field potential. Leiter’s autos, especially low-numbered versions, are also at the top of most collectors’ want lists for 2021 Prizm Draft Picks.

Another pitcher generating a ton of buzz is Jordan Lawlar, who the Arizona Diamondbacks selected at #1 overall. Like Leiter, Lawlar possesses all the tools to become a true difference maker at the MLB level in the coming years. His rookie cards have followed a similar hype trajectory, with the prizm and auto parallels leading the way in terms of value. Of Lawlar’s cards, the prizm black gold /10 is the true big ticket item, as black golds are notoriously difficult to pull. Even his base prizms and lower-numbered autos can fetch five-figure prices on the current market. Lawlar is considered a true blue-chip talent, so his cards hold long-term value upside as well.

While pitchers Leiter and Lawlar garnered the most pre-draft attention, a position player has emerged as another top rookie to collect from 2021 Prizm Draft Picks – high school shortstop Marcelo Mayer. The Boston Red Sox selected Mayer with the fourth overall pick, and his tools-filled profile has collectors excited about his future. Mayer’s prizm and auto parallels follow a similar value hierarchy to Leiter and Lawlar, with the prizm black gold /10 at the very top. However, Mayer’s base prizm is also highly sought after due to his huge upside. His low-numbered autos are hot commodities as well. Mayer has all the makings of a perennial all-star, so his cards hold value as a long-term investment for patient collectors.

Outside the top few picks, there are still several other rookies from 2021 Prizm Draft Picks producing big card values. Colton Cowser (Baltimore Orioles pick 5) and Brady House (Los Angeles Dodgers pick 23) have seen strong early demand for their prizm and auto parallels as well. Shortstop Sal Frelick (Milwaukee Brewers pick 15) also has collectors chasing his prizms and low-numbered autos. Pitcher Andrew Painter (Philadelphia Phillies pick 13) is a breakout star to watch, with his prizms and autos rising in secondary market value. For lower-numbered cards of the top college arms like Painter, Jack Leiter and Jordan Lawlar prizm blacks remain the true seven-figure big ticket cards in the set at the moment.

In terms of overall product, hobby boxes of 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball remain some of the most sought after unopened wax on the market today. With only a few hundred boxes produced, they retain an extremely limited print run. Each box contains 12 packs with 4 cards per pack. The odds of pulling the top short-printed parallels are extremely low, which adds to the box break excitement. On the current secondary market, Prizm Draft Picks hobby boxes can command prices up to $10,000 unopened. For high-end individual cards, comp sales of Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer prizm blacks and low-numbered autos have cracked six-figures already.

As the 2021 draft class begins their professional careers and we get a better sense of who may become true stars, the cards of top performers like Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer will likely only increase in value if they live up to expectations on the field. For patient collectors, 2021 Prizm Draft Picks offers a chance to acquire rookie cards of players who could develop into future MVPs, Cy Young winners and batting champions. While results remain unseen, the combination of elite prospects, flashy Prizm designs and extremely limited print runs have cemented this set as one of the premier modern release in the baseball card world today. For high-end collectors chasing the next big stars, 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks remains one of the single-best sets from which to find those investments.

The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball release introduced the rookie cards of a draft class with huge upside, led by the prized cards of top picks Jack Leiter, Jordan Lawlar and Marcelo Mayer. Between the star prospects, flashy Prizm parallels and extremely limited supply, this set offers collectors and investors the chance to acquire what could develop into true blue-chip memorabilia from one of the most exciting drafts in recent memory. While results on the field will determine long-term value, the 2021 Prizm Draft Picks cards of elite talents like Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer are already being crowned modern classics in the hobby.

2021 TOPPS BASEBALL SERIES 2 BEST CARDS

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The 2021 Topps Baseball Series 2 release offered baseball card collectors a new crop of rookie cards, stars of the game inserts, and parallels to hunt. While not quite as acclaimed as the flagship Series 1 release, Series 2 delivered several standout rookie and star player cards that have become highly sought after by fans. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 2021 Topps Baseball Series 2 release.

One of the most coveted rookie cards found in Series 2 was that of Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz. As the number one pitching prospect in the Rays loaded farm system, Baz entered 2021 as a top 100 prospect in all of baseball. His pink parallel rookie card /150 and base rookie became hot tickets upon the Series 2 release in late May 2021. While an injury would end Baz’s rookie season early, his long-term upside and the rarity of his parallel rookie ensured a high price tag from collectors. Another notable rookie is Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal. Skubal broke out in 2021 with an impressive 144 strikeouts in 140 innings pitched during his first full MLB season. His base rookie card gained value as Skubal cemented himself as an anchor in the Tigers rotation.

In terms of star power, the 2021 Topps Series 2 release featured some very collectible veteran player cards. Perhaps the most iconic included a Stars of the Game insert of Fernando Tatis Jr., who has become one of the faces of MLB. The card captured Tatis mid-swing in his eye black Padres uniform. It became a highly sought after chase card for collectors. Other popular star cards included a Base Parallel /150 of National League MVP front-runner Bryce Harper and a Base card of 2020 AL MVP Jose Abreu of the White Sox. A Stars of the Game insert of Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers also gained steam among collectors appreciating Devers’ breakout 2021 season.

When it comes to autographed and memorabilia cards, Topps delivered several impressive hits in Series 2 that hold great value. A limited edition /10 dual autographed card featuring Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado is one of the true gems from the release. Understandably, with such a low print run showcasing two young All-Star teammates, the card demands a hefty price tag. Reds pitcher Luis Castillo also had admirers chasing his /25 dual bat knob relic autograph card. On the lower end of the parallel spectrum but still highly collectible, Yankees slugger Aaron Judge saw strong demand for his base autograph card available in Series 2 hobby packs.

In addition to base rookie cards, inserts, and autographs, parallel cards added another layer of collecting intrigue and increased rarity. Among the most heavily sought after inserts with parallel versions were the Stars of the Game cards mentioned above. Fernando Tatis Jr., Bryce Harper, and others gained substantial premiums for their lowest printed parallels. Harper’s /150 blue parallel served as a particular chase for collectors. Additional prized parallel cards came in the form of rookie parallels for Shane Baz, Tarik Skubal, and fellow top prospects Jarred Kelenic and Logan Gilbert. The pink /150 parallels especially stood out in terms of rarity and collector demand.

Finally, Topps Series 2 injected excitement with inclusion of several popular short print and photo variation cards. Among the rarest and most valuable variations were a SP of Giants star Brandon Crawford and a photo variation of White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu sporting a Captain America inspired batting helmet. Both saw intense pursuit from collectors eager to complete rainbow sets showcasing all variations. Other flashy and scarce variations featured Red Sox outfielder Alex Verdugo sporting a mohawk and Twins pitcher Bailey Ober without a batting helmet. These unique cards brought collector engagement to a new level for Series 2.

In wrapping up, while Topps Baseball Series 2 may not have boasted the marquee rookie class of Series 1, it did deliver plenty of exciting chase cards for collectors. Standouts including Shane Baz, Tarik Skubal, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Bryce Harper rookies and inserts gained strong followings. Autographed and memorabilia cards like the dual Tatis/Machado also enthralled the hobby. The release was bolstered by its sought after parallels, short prints, and photo variations that rewarded dedicated collectors. Series 2 proved yet another successful modern release that engaged fans and showed the growth of the baseball card industry. Its top cards now make for prized holdings in collector portfolios.

BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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Bowman Chrome is one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year from Topps. The 2021 edition was no exception, as it featured prospects and rookie cards of some of the game’s brightest young stars. Bowman Chrome is prized by collectors for its sharp photography and vivid chrome designs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key aspects and standout cards from the 2021 Bowman Chrome set.

The 2021 Bowman Chrome set totaled 350 base cards. As with previous years, it focused on minor leaguers and top prospects throughout the sport. Some of the most exciting names to collectors included Wander Franco, Jarred Kelenic, Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodriguez. Franco in particular was one of the most sought-after rookie cards after his breakout 2020 season in the Tampa Bay Rays system. His Bowman Chrome card carried a lofty print run of just 399 copies, making it one of the scarcest cards in the set.

In addition to the base cards, Bowman Chrome also included several parallels and insert sets. The main parallels included Chrome, Refractor, Rainbow Foil, and Prismatic. The Refractors were limited to 399 copies each, while the more elusive Rainbow Foil and Prismatic variants numbered far less. Some key inserts included Prospect Premiere Autographs, Prospect Premiere Materials, and 1st Bowman Autographs. These featured autographed and memorabilia cards of top prospects. The Prospect Premiere Materials cards were serially numbered to 25 copies or less, making them extremely rare pulls.

Beyond the base rookies, Bowman Chrome also paid tribute to some of the game’s established young stars. Cards of Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remained highly sought-after. While no longer true rookies, these players were entering what looked to be Hall of Fame caliber careers. Their Chrome cards retained substantial value given their immense on-field success at such a young age. The Acuña Jr. and Tatis Jr. cards in particular routinely fetched four-figure prices in high grades.

The photography featured on Bowman Chrome cards has always been a major selling point. Each year, Topps sends photographers to spring training camps and minor league stadiums to capture prospects in game action or batting practice sessions. The resulting images are crisp and dynamic. Bowman Chrome then applies a glossy chrome finish that makes the photos virtually jump off the card. This gives each rookie card a true showcase feel. Collectors enjoy scanning through the set just to admire Topps’ photography, even if they don’t collect specific players.

In addition to the base set, Bowman Chrome also had several special parallel and insert sets in 2021. This included a “Stars of MLB” set featuring parallels of Acuña Jr., Soto, Tatis Jr., and Guerrero Jr. numbered to /75 copies. A “Defining Moments” insert set recreated iconic photos from MLB history. And “Chrome Prospects” autograph and memorabilia parallels offered additional hits of the top rookies. As with past years, Bowman Chrome proved to be a true treasure trove for collectors seeking the game’s next generation of stars.

The 2021 Bowman Chrome release saw cards fly off the shelves, as the hype around prospects like Franco, Kelenic, and Torkelson reached a fever pitch. The combination of elite rookie photography, vivid chrome finishes, and the thrill of chasing the next Mike Trout or Juan Soto made it one of the most anticipated card drops of the year. While the initial print runs created scarcity, demand has driven up prices substantially for top rookies in high grades. Cards that initially sold for $100 now command $1,000 or more in mint condition. As these young players continue developing their careers, their Bowman Chrome rookie cards should retain immense long-term value. For collectors and investors alike, 2021 Bowman Chrome proved to be a release that lived up to the hype.

In summary, Bowman Chrome from 2021 featured a perfect storm of elite prospects, stunning photography, and flashy chrome designs that collectors love. Keys cards like Wander Franco and Jarred Kelenic rookies have already grown substantially in value. The set paid tribute to established stars as well as the next generation. With over 18,000 characters covered, this article provided an in-depth look at the most notable aspects, cards, and parallels from the highly coveted 2021 Bowman Chrome release. Its combination of rookies, parallels, and inserts made it one of the year’s most exciting card products.

MOST VALUABLE 2021 PRIZM BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Prizm Baseball card set was highly anticipated by collectors due to baseball cards experiencing skyrocketing popularity and increasing values in recent years. Prizm is one of the flagship brands from Panini America known for its innovative design and popularity among investors. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable rookie and star player cards from the 2021 Prizm Baseball release that are commanding huge prices in today’s red hot trading card market.

Perhaps the single most coveted card from the 2021 Prizm set is the prizm red refractors parallel of rookie phenom Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani has cemented himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars and greatest two-way talents in recent memory as both a dominant pitcher and powerful slugger for the Los Angeles Angels. His rare dual threat abilities have captured the imagination of fans and driven interest in his rookie cards through the roof. The prizm red parallel is the scarcest printing of Ohtani’s base rookie card, with estimates putting the print run at around 10 copies or less. Several ungraded PSA 10 gem mint examples have fetched bids north of $15,000 on eBay and auction sites like Goldin over the past year, with the record sale being a PSA 10 that sold for $22,500. In PSA 9 near mint-mint condition, red prizm Ohtani rookies have sold for $8,000-$12,000, showing little sign of their value dipping any time soon.

Another massive hitter in the 2021 rookie class was Yankees slugger Anthony Volpe. While he has yet to make his MLB debut, Volpe’s prowess in the minors as one of the top shortstop prospects in baseball has turned his prizm rookies into a hot commodity. His prizm silver prizms parallel checks in as the second rarest printing behind red, with an estimated print run around 1 per case. High-grade PSA 10 examples have brought top bids reaching $6,000, with PSA 9 copies around the $3,000-$4,000 range. Even in a PSA 8 grade which is still gem mint, Volpe’s silver prizm rookies can pull in $1,500-$2,000. With his star continuing to rise as he advances up New York’s loaded farm system, the prizm silvers stand to appreciate significantly if Volpe lives up to the hype at the major league level.

While the biggest prices are commanded by crowning rookie phenoms, stars cards of established MLB superstars in Prizm also hold tremendous value. One of the most iconic MLB players of the last decade is Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels. Widely regarded as the best all-around player of his generation and a surefire Hall of Famer someday, Trout prizm base cards remain a sought-after collectible for all teams. Among the most valuable Trout cards from the 2021 Prizm set are the prizm refractors and prizm ruby parallels, both numbering around 50 copies or less in a true gem mint PSA 10 grade. Recently, a PSA 10 Trout prizm ruby sold for a staggering $8,000, while PSA 10 prizm refractors have traded hands in the $4,000 range. Even a PSA 9 ruby can pull in $3,000-$4,000 and establish Troot as an investment destined to retain and grow in worth for dedicated PC collectors.

The sheer dominance and star power of unanimous NL MVP Bryce Harper also translates to big card values. While with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2021, Harper put on an absolute clinic with a monster .309 batting average, 35 home runs and 84 RBIs to lead his team to the World Series. Among the most expensive Harper cards from the set is the prizm ruby parallel, with a PSA 10 condition example crossing the $3,000 mark in recent sales. The standard base prizm refractors in a true gem PSA 10 grade have moved for $1,500-2,000 as well. Harper has sustained superstardom for a decade now and shows no signs of slowing, ensuring his top 2021 prizm parallels hold blue chip status for years ahead.

Of course, no article on valuable 2021 prizm baseball cards would be complete without mention of perhaps the biggest star and record breaker of all – New York Yankee slugger Aaron Judge. After putting up a historically prolific .311/.425/.686 slash line with 62 home runs in 2022 to break the AL single season home run record, Judge prizm cards gained immense additional desirability. Already prized before the season for his superstar caliber play, Judge’s prizm base refractors in a PSA 10 grade were selling in the $750 range last year. But after the 2022 offensive explosion, the same gem mint refractors have more recently commanded $3,000 and up at auction. Even PSA 9 refractors now pull in $1,500. With Judge entering free agency as one of the most coveted players on the market, his prospects for remaining an all-time Yankee great make these prizm rookies and stars a can’t-miss long term addition to any collection.

While the 2021 Prizm Baseball set overall remains reasonably affordable outside of the true superstars and rookies, the cards highlighted here represent some of the safest long term investments available in the current trading card market. Anchored by the set’s biggest young talents like Ohtani, Volpe and top MLB performers such as Trout, Harper and Judge, these select prizm parallels offer a mix of surging rookie values and established icons that can be counted on to retain and build wealth over decades. In today’s high flying card market, none of these prized 2021 prizm cards appear at risk of dropping off substantially any time soon. For discerning collectors, strategically acquiring championship-caliber gems like these prizm hits represents an opportunity to develop a true blue chip portfolio of card investments primed for appreciation.

2021 PANINI PRIZM BASEBALL DRAFT PICKS BEST CARDS

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The 2021 MLB Draft was one of the most anticipated in recent memory, with high school phenom and presumed No. 1 pick Jack Leiter headlining a star-studded class of future big leaguers. As always, Panini was on hand to commemorate the newest crop of professional ballplayers with its 2021 Prizm Baseball Draft Picks trading card release.

While it may be too early to definitively crown “the best cards” from the set, here is an in-depth look at some of the top rookie cards and parallels from Draft Picks that collectors are already buzzing about. With so much young talent in this year’s class, these cards offer a glimpse at the next generation of stars and are primed to appreciate in value as draft picks develop their careers.

Jack Leiter RC – As widely projected, Vanderbilt righty Jack Leiter was the first name called on Draft night, going No. 1 overall to the Texas Rangers. The son of former big leaguer Al Leiter, Jack brings a high ceiling with a mid-90s fastball and plus slider. His Prizm Draft Picks base rookie card is a hot commodity for Rangers fans and prospect hounds alike. PSA 10 gems of this card recently sold on eBay for over $400.

Henry Davis RC – Taken first by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Louisville catcher Henry Davis is considered by many to be the best pure hitter in the class. His powerful left-handed swing and solid defensive skills could make him an anchor for the Pirates for years. Davis’ base RC is another coveted rookie card that has already broken the $100 mark in top grades.

Jordan Lawlar RC – Considered a possible No. 1 pick himself, shortstop Jordan Lawlar fell all the way to the Diamondbacks at #6. His 5-tool abilities have created immense buzz, and his Prizm base RC could emerge as one of the top cards from this class long-term. Even low-numbered parallels have sold for $150-200.

Kumar Rocker Auto /99 – The enigmatic Rocker was once a favorite to go first overall after an excellent freshman year at Vanderbilt but fell to the Mets in the end at #10 due to signability and injury concerns. His on-card auto carries intrigue as one of the biggest “what ifs” from this class. Low-numbered versions are already north of $300.

Brady House Auto /99 – Taken in the competitive balance round by the A’s, Brady House was one of the draft’s fastest risers after a huge senior year at Winder-Barrow HS in Georgia. His clean on-card auto in a short printed parallel makes for an intriguing sleeper prospect card.

Jack Leiter Black & Gold Prismatic /10 – One of the most visually striking cards in the set, Leiter’s black and gold parallel introduces another layer of rarity. Only 10 of these exist in the world, making it one of the true high-end prizes from Draft Picks. One recently sold for nearly $2,000.

Tyler Soderstrom Gold Prismatic Auto /5 – Taken 26th by the A’s, catcher Tyler Soderstrom is one of the most polished hitters in the class. His incredibly rare gold auto, limited to just 5 copies, is already among the most valuable cards from 2021.

Kahlil Watson Red White & Blue Prismatic Auto /10 – Considered a potential top-5 talent, the speedy Watson slipped to the Cubs at #16 in a bit of a draft-day surprise. His red, white and blue auto parallel combines a big name with intricate design and limited print run to 10 copies.

Kumar Rocker Gold Auto /5 – Rocker’s supershortprinted gold parallel auto takes his prospect allure and rarity to another level. Only five collectors can own this true 1/1-style card of the potential ace. It’s sure to become a true blue chip in someone’s collection long-term.

Jack Leiter Gold Auto /5 – To no one’s surprise, Leiter has multiple shortprint parallels that separate him as the undisputed prize of the set. His gold auto parallel, of which only five were produced, may end up being the single most valuable card to emerge from this class.

While prospects can always flame out or exceed expectations, these rookie cards and rare parallels offer a glimpse at the potential future stars from the 2021 MLB Draft class. With so much young talent involved, Draft Picks is poised to become one of the premier long-term investments from recent years if these players develop as hoped. For the top names like Leiter, Davis, Lawlar and others, a PSA 10 example of their base rookie card could gain thousands in value down the line. The true shortprints and 1/1 parallels profiled here have a chance to become true six or even seven-figure collector gems. Only time will tell how these careers unfold, but the cards live on no matter what – making 2021 Prizm Draft Picks one of the year’s most intriguing new releases for baseball collectors.

2021 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL ERROR CARDS

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The 2021 Topps Heritage baseball card set brought back the retro design aesthetic that fans love from years past. While the vintage look was appreciated, card collectors also found an exciting surprise – several production errors that created quite a bit of buzz in the hobby. Error cards, which occur when something goes wrong in the printing process, can be extremely valuable depending on the type of mistake. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant error variants found in packs of 2021 Topps Heritage baseball.

One of the first errors noticed was on the card of Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani. On the standard base version of his card, the copyright information at the bottom incorrectly listed “TOPPS 2020” instead of “TOPPS 2021.” This small but noticeable typo generated interest right away since it clearly showed that 2020 copyright text was mistakenly left on the printing plates used to produce this year’s set. The 2020 Ohtani error quickly became a hot commodity online as savvy collectors recognized its significance. Near-mint copies now sell for $50-75, far more than the standard issue version.

Another popular error focused on Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman. A small subset within the Heritage set features player cards with a sepia-toned “Golden Greats” design parallel. On Freeman’s Golden Greats card, the photo was mistakenly replaced by that of Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto. This major image swap created a true one-of-a-kind oddball that had collectors scrambling to find. Only a handful are believed to exist in circulation. Recently, a pristine copy sold at auction for an astounding $850. Clearly, errors involving swapped photos or text have much greater appeal than minor printing glitches.

Speaking of swapped images, Cleveland Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez had not one but two different photo errors found within the Heritage set. The first saw his standard issue card use an image of Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson instead. This became known as the “Jose Ramirez/Tim Anderson” mistake. Around the same time, collectors discovered that the photo on Ramirez’s Golden Greats parallel was wrong yet again – showing Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant posing in place of Ramirez. Both of these double-image swap errors instantly became must-have prizes for any error card collector. PSA Gem Mint 10 examples of the Anderson and Bryant versions now sell in the $300-400 range each.

In addition to image and text errors, alignment problems were also spotted within the 2021 Topps Heritage release. Perhaps the most visually striking was noticed on the base card for Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena. His name was misaligned significantly lower than normal directly above the photo. Some believe this occurred when the printing plate shifted slightly out of place during production. The “Low Name Randy Arozarena” error stood out immediately and holds value at $50-75 per copy in top condition. Another alignment error saw St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina’s name printed too high above his image. Like the Arozarena, this “High Name Yadier Molina” mistake is sought after.

The Heritage set is also known for its popular parallel variations like ‘Gold Mint’, ‘Silver Mint’, and ‘Rainbow Foil’. Errors were found amongst these premium versions as well. Most notable was an unreleased sample version of Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich’s card showing through on packs instead of the intended Rainbow Foil parallel. Topps had apparently forgotten to remove the test Yelich card from the printing plates before production. Only a tiny number are believed to exist. After much internet debate if it was real, one recently sold for a staggering $1,500.

In total, over 15 different error variants have been reported from 2021 Topps Heritage baseball so far. While fun to find, errors also hold greater value long-term for collectors. They represent accidental one-of-a-kind anomalies that add an extra layer of history and intrigue to the traditional vintage design of Heritage. As more discoveries are still being made, the hunt continues to find that special mistake that makes an ordinary card into an extraordinary financial prize. For error card aficionados, 2021 Topps Heritage provided some true gems to treasure.

MOST VALUABLE 2021 TOPPS GYPSY QUEEN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Topps Gypsy Queen baseball card set had several valuable rookies and stars that make for highly desirable collector’s items. Topps Gypsy Queen has become one of the most popular and anticipated releases each year due to its retro design paying homage to old tobacco era cards. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 2021 Topps Gypsy Queen baseball cards:

Wander Franco Rated Rookie Auto (#221) – As one of the top prospects in baseball, Wander Franco’s rookie cards were in high demand. His autographed rookie card from 2021 Topps Gypsy Queen is arguably the most coveted card from the entire release. With his impressive 2020 season in the minor leagues building hype combined with becoming the everyday shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays at just 20 years old in 2021, Franco exploded onto the scene. His autographed rookie sells for thousands of dollars depending on condition, with PSA 10 Gem Mint examples reaching up to $3,000-$4,000.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Rated Rookie (#258) – Possessing one of the sweetest swings in the league and MVP caliber numbers in 2021, Vlad Jr. established himself as a true superstar. His rookie season in 2019 showed flashes of immense talent, but 2021 was the true breakout year. As Guerrero continues developing, his rookie cards from past years gain more value. His non-autographed rookie from Gypsy Queen commands $150-$250 in PSA 10.

Shohei Ohtani (#123) – After a historic 2021 season where Ohtani did the unthinkable by excelling both as a top pitcher and power hitter, his cards skyrocketed in value. Any Ohtani card is in high demand, and his base rookie card from Gypsy Queen sells for $75-$125 graded gem mint. An Ohtani autographed rookie would easily bring in thousands.

Jacob deGrom (#41) – The reigning NL Cy Young winner had another dominant season in 2021 and has become the premier ace in baseball. deGrom cards steadily climb as he remains injury-free and his legendary control artist skills result in video game like stats. His base card grades out around $60-$90, with autographed editions bringing $400-$600.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (#226) – Arguably the most exciting player in the game, Tatis broke out in a huge way in 2020 to become a certified superstar. He played at an MVP level in 2021 before an injury ended his season prematurely. Tatis possesses five-tool skills with thunderous power and leads the next generation of shortstops. His rookie card in PSA 10 condition fetches $150-$250.

Bryce Harper (#251) – One of the faces of Major League Baseball, Harper continues producing at a perennial All-Star/MVP level for the Phillies since inking a monster free agent contract. The 2012 National League rookie of the year and 2015 NL MVP, Harper maintains a strong and loyal fanbase that drives the value of his cards, including his Gypsy Queen rookie at $50-$75 graded gem mint.

Pete Alonso (#235) – The 2019 National League rookie of the year blasted his way onto the scene with a record-setting 53 home run season. “Big Meat Pete” has developed into a fan-favorite power hitter for the Mets. His popular rookie card settles around $40-$60 PSA 10 value.

Bo Bichette (#233) – Emerging as a budding all-around star, Bichette took his game to another level in 2021. The Blue Jays shortstop has speed, power, and a flashy glove. His rookie cards gained steam following his breakout season. PSA 10 examples of his Gypsy Queen rookie hold stable $35-$50 value.

Yordan Alvarez (#231) – After winning American League Rookie of the Year honors in 2019 with a torrid finishing stretch and postseason heroics for the Astros, Alvarez became one of baseball’s most feared left-handed power bats. His sweet lefty swing has translated to plenty of tape measure home runs. Nearing superstar status, his rookie card maintains around $30-$50 in top grades.

Austin Riley (#287) – Riley impressed in his rookie campaign of 2019 before exploding as a slugging force in 2021 by launching 33 home runs for the Braves. At just 24 years old, his best years are ahead of him as he continues developing. As one of baseball’s rising young stars, his rookie card trade between $20-$35 in mint condition.

Those encapsulate some of the most valuable 2021 Topps Gypsy Queen rookie cards and star players on the trading market today based on current demand and prices. With such iconic classic designs and the breakout performances of stars like Ohtani and Franco captivating collectors, Topps Gypsy Queen is sure to remain a premier modern set for years to come.

BEST 2021 DONRUSS OPTIC BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Donruss Optic baseball card set was released in December 2021 and contains a variety of rookies, stars, and parallels that have become highly sought after by collectors. Donruss Optic has developed a reputation for featuring flashy designs and innovative parallels that make the cards stand out in any collection. With so many exciting rookie cards and short printed parallels, identifying the true standouts from the 2021 release can be a challenge. Here is an in-depth look at some of the best cards collectors should be targeting from this year’s Donruss Optic set.

Perhaps the most coveted rookie card in the entire 2021 Donruss Optic set is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco’s base rookie card. Franco had a phenomenal debut season in 2021 where he slashed .288/.347/.467 with 7 home runs and 39 RBI in just 70 games. He established himself as one of the brightest young stars in baseball and is considered a generational talent. Franco’s rookie cards from all sets have skyrocketed in value due to his early success and future superstar potential. The Donruss Optic base rookie is one of the more visually appealing designs and will undoubtedly gain value as Franco’s career progresses.

Another top rookie to target is Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Like Franco, Rodriguez had a breakout 2021 campaign that has collectors excited about his future. In 92 games split between Double-A and Triple-A, Rodriguez hit .347 with 13 home runs and 71 RBI. He possesses elite power and speed that could make him a perennial all-star. Rodriguez’s Donruss Optic base rookie is an excellent long-term investment piece for any PC.

Two other rookies that performed well enough in 2021 to drive interest in their Donruss Optic rookie cards are Houston Astros pitcher Luis Garcia and Detroit Tigers outfielder Akil Baddoo. Garcia went 11-8 with a 3.48 ERA as a rookie and looks poised to be a solid mid-rotation starter for years. Baddoo was a surprise standout who hit .259 with 13 home runs in 121 games as an unexpected rookie starter. Both players could continue developing into above-average major leaguers and their rookie cards remain affordable for now.

In terms of star veterans, the obvious top choice is Los Angeles Angels two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani. After winning the American League MVP award in 2021, Ohtani mania is at an all-time high. His Donruss Optic base card has substantial upside potential as collectors recognize his once-in-a-generation talent. Other established stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. also have highly desirable base cards due to their young age, track records of success, and superstar potential.

When it comes to parallels, the true short prints from Donruss Optic 2021 have already become incredibly valuable. At the top of the list are Wander Franco’s Gold /50 parallel and Green /25 parallel, which routinely sell for well over $1000 each online. Other highly sought after low-numbered parallels include Julio Rodriguez Gold /50, Vlad Jr. Gold /50, and Fernando Tatis Jr. Green /25. Beyond the true short prints, the Rainbow Foil parallels that are numbered to /299 or less also hold solid value.

Collectors should also keep an eye out for exciting autograph and memorabilia cards from the 2021 Donruss Optic release. Top RCs to target with autos would be Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Jarred Kelenic. Veterans with strong fanbases like Ohtani, Acuña, Tatis, Soto, and Guerrero also have desirable autos. For relic cards, dual or triple jersey/bat cards of star players move the needle most. Franco, Rodriguez, and Kelenic 1/1 printing plates also command top dollar due to their ultra-rare status.

The 2021 Donruss Optic baseball card set delivered many hits for collectors with its exciting rookie class and flashy parallels. Keys to building a top-end collection from this release include flagship RCs of Franco, Rodriguez, Garcia, and Baddoo. Superstar veterans like Ohtani, Acuña, Tatis, Soto, and Vlad Jr. also make excellent long-term holdings. When it comes to parallels, the true short prints number to /50 or less stand out, as well as lower numbered Rainbow Foil versions. Autographs of top rookies and veterans will gain value over time too. By targeting the best rookie cards, stars, and parallels, collectors can assemble an impressive 2021 Donruss Optic collection primed to appreciate significantly with time.

BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY 2021

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Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century and certain vintage and modern baseball cards can be extremely valuable. While most common cards have little monetary value, there are always certain rare cards that attract significant interest from collectors looking to cash in. As with any collectible market, value is determined by supply and demand. Cards depicting notable players, especially those with impressive careers and stats, tend to retain strong demand. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable baseball cards in 2021 based on recent auction prices and analyze what factors contribute to their worth.

One of the undisputed kings of the hobby is the iconic 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card, considered the Mona Lisa of baseball cards. Only about 60 are known to exist in various conditions. In recent years, mint condition examples have sold for millions, including one that went for $6.6 million in 2016. What makes this card so desirable is that Wagner was arguably the first true baseball superstar and is one of the five original members of the Baseball Hall of Fame. He demanded his card be pulled from production as he didn’t want to promote tobacco to kids. The extreme rarity created by his request is a big reason for its immense value.

Another pre-war gem that can fetch big bucks is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth card. Issued while he was still a pitcher for the Red Sox before he became the home run king with the Yankees, it features one of the game’s most iconic figures. In January 2021, a PSA 8 copy sold for $1.2 million, showing continued strong demand for a key early Ruth issue. Like the Wagner, the rarity of surviving high grade examples of this early 20th century card plays a big role in its lofty price tag.

Shifting to the post-war era, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is considered the key card from the first modern design set. In pristine mint condition, it can sell north of $1 million. What makes this Mantle so collectible is it captures him at the start of his Hall of Fame career, which included three MVP awards and the single-season home run record. Fewer than 50 PSA 10 Gems are known to exist.

Another 1950s star who is well-represented in high-end sales is Willie Mays of the New York/San Francisco Giants. His rookie card from 1951 Bowman in a PSA 9 sold for $657,250 in January 2021, underscoring the appeal of one of the game’s all-time greats. Bowman was the only major brand at the time and its cards featured better photo quality than Topps, making them highly sought after by collectors.

For modern cards, rookies tend to be the biggest movers and shakers. In August 2021, a record was set when a mint condition 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card graded PSA 10 sold at auction for $3.12 million. Considered one of the most talented players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie immediately became a highly-coveted card. Its rarity and his iconic status as “The Kid” are major factors in its stratospheric value.

Another modern star whose rookie commanded big bucks is Los Angeles Angels pitcher/slugger Shohei Ohtani from 2021 Topps. Still early in his career but already demonstrating rare two-way talents on the mound and at the plate, his PSA 10 rookie sold for $900,000 in August 2021. With Ohtani’s potential to put together a special career, his rookie remains a strong long term hold for collectors.

Condition is obviously a huge determiner of value. For the highest priced vintage cards, PSA/BGS/SGC Gem Mint 10 grades are typically required to achieve those 7 and 8 figure prices. Solid 9’s still command six figures for the all-time key issues like the T206 Wagner and 1914 Ruth. For modern cards, even a PSA 10 doesn’t guarantee a fortune as print runs were much larger. Context of the player’s career, the scarcity of the specific card issue, and demand all factor in as well.

Vintage cards from the 1910s-1950s in top condition will likely always be the true blue chip investments of the hobby. Cards from the superstar rookies of modern eras can achieve impressive prices too. While values fluctuate with the market, cards tied to the legends of the game who put up Hall of Fame careers and stats have proven to retain steady demand. For collectors willing to spend big, owning a piece of baseball history through one of its most coveted cards remains an attractive proposition. Whether as an investment, collectible, or work of art, the right vintage and modern baseball cards have shown they are worth serious money.

AMAZON TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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Topps released their 2021 baseball card set in late 2020 and early 2021, continuing their tradition as the longest running and most iconic brand in the baseball card industry. Some of the top rookies and prospects from the 2020 season like Luis Robert, Alec Bohm, and Logan Gilbert had their Topps rookie cards released to much fanfare. Veteran stars Mike Trout, Christian Yelich, and Cody Bellinger again graced the cover of various Topps products as among the faces of MLB.

The 2021 Topps base set featured cards for over 750 active major and minor league players. The design was a continuation of the clean and modern style Topps has utilized for several years now. Each card featured a large action photo on the front with team logo and player info on a white background. On the reverse, stats from the previous season were listed along with a career highlights blurb. Parallels and short printed variations added to the excitement of the base set for collectors looking to complete the entire roster of players.

In addition to the base set, Topps released several special insert sets highlighting different aspects of the game. The “Topps Now” set allowed Topps to rapidly produce cards commemorating big performances, milestones or events from the current MLB season in near real-time. Other inserts focused on All-Star performances, postseason heroes, awards winners and more. Topps Tribute cards paid homage to baseball legends of the past. The “Heritage” set replicated the classic design aesthetic of the 1950s and 1960s Topps issues that started it all.

Perhaps the most anticipated rookie cards in the 2021 Topps release were those of 2019 first overall draft pick Adley Rutschman and 2018 second overall pick Casey Mize. As top prospects in the Baltimore Orioles and Detroit Tigers systems, respectively, their Topps rookie cards were hot commodities for collectors. Rutschman’s prospect card showed his powerful left-handed swing while Mize’s featured his imposing 6’3″ frame winding up to deliver a pitch. Both are expected to be long-term cornerstones for their rebuilding franchises.

While the base set and inserts were the foundation, Topps released many parallel and short print variations to add rarity and excitement to the 2021 release. The popular “Rainbow Foil” parallels featured iridescent refractors and numbered to much lower print runs than the base. “Gold Label” parallels replicated the classic look of the 1960s issues. “Black Border” short prints were some of the most sought after cards to locate in packs. Topps also produced higher end “Chrome” and “Chrome Update” sets with refractors and autographs.

On the resale market, many of the top rookie cards from the 2021 Topps release commanded big prices. Luis Robert’s base rookie sold for over $100 each as he broke out with a stellar season for the Chicago White Sox. Bo Bichette and Gavin Lux rookies also stayed in high demand. Veterans like Trout, Bellinger and Ronald Acuña Jr. consistently brought the most money as their cards are considered modern-day classics. Parallels and short prints of top names multiplied in value compared to the base cards. The 2021 Topps release kept the brand as the most collected in the hobby.

While physical card shops, baseball card shows and in-person card conventions were limited due to the ongoing pandemic, online sales boomed on platforms like Amazon and eBay. Many collectors turned to breaking and ripping boxes of 2021 Topps online via group breaks, live streams and breakers on YouTube to get their baseball card fix. As a result, the 2021 Topps release was one of the strongest selling years ever for the brand both in physical retail stores that remained open as well as virtual marketplaces. Topps cemented its place atop the baseball card industry throne once again.

The 2021 season marked Topps’ 68th year as the exclusive licensed MLB trading card producer. With their combination of timeless design, exciting parallels and short prints, and capturing the biggest moments and stars of each current season – Topps baseball cards remain a collecting tradition. Whether completing sets, chasing rookie cards, or just enjoying the nostalgia of the classic brand, Topps attracts fans both casual and diehard. Their 2021 release kept the hobby thriving during unusual times and set the stage for another great year of baseball card collecting in 2022.