Tag Archives: 2021

VALUABLE 2021 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Topps baseball card series featured some rookie cards and memorabilia cards that are already proving to be quite valuable in the modern collecting market. Within just a few months of the products releasing, several young star rookies like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. have seen strong appreciation in the secondary marketplace. And parallels or serial-numbered versions of these top cards continue climbing in price.

One of the most sought-after 2021 Topps cards remains the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rookie auto parallel. As the child of a Hall of Famer and an elite hitter in his own right, Guerrero’s Topps debut cards consistently rank among the priciest new releases. His autographed yellow parallel from 2021 Series 1, numbered to just /2021 copies, has already eclipsed $1,000 average sales prices on eBay just months after the set dropped. Low-numbered editions of this coveted rookie patch autograph have even crossed $3,000+. Whether or not Guerrero ultimately lives up to his enormous hype, collectors believe strongly in his star power and lineage keeping these inserts highly collectible for years to come.

Fernando Tatis Jr.’s cards have also seen a boom in interest after another phenomenal season that’s put him in the early MVP discussion. One of his standout 2021 parallels is the Topps Finest green refractor /5. This ultra-short printed insert hits the sweet spot of rarity, visual appeal, and highlighting one of the game’s brightest young stars. As a result, available PSA 10 Gem Mint examples have been moving for $4,000+ on the group break market. Even PSA 9 Near Mint copies trade around $2,500. With Tatis still just 22 years old and locked up long-term in San Diego, it’s easy to imagine these elite rookie parallels appreciating substantially if he stays on his current superstar trajectory.

Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return from a torn ACL that ended his 2021 campaign early generated excitement among collectors. One way to commemorate Acuña’s comeback is by obtaining an autographed Topps Finest Black parallel from 2021. Numbered to just /50 copies, these highly rare Acuña rookie signature inserts are some of the most elite hits from the year’s Finest release. Only a few have surfaced for sale so far, with a PSA 10 example moving for nearly $6,000 back in August based on a recent price guide. It proves Acuña’s star power and recovering health have restored faith that his early career cards remain stellar long term holdings.

rookie cards from prospects like Wander Franco, Jarred Kelenic, and Jo Adell also emerged as highly sought trophies from 2021 Topps products. Franco’s paper rookie debut from Series 1 skyrocketed after a stellar MLB debut further cemented his status as a can’t-miss talent. Even PSA 8 copies of this straightforward base issue now pull in over $300. And top Franco parallels like his SP variant or Topps Chrome refractors have consistently topped multiple thousands. Meanwhile, Kelenic and Adell’s shortprinted Topps Finest autos have turned heads by averaging $800-1000+ for low serial versions despite neither player totally setting the majors ablaze just yet. It reflects high confidence among collectors that these prospects will fully blossom.

Beyond rookies and young stars, rare autograph or serial-numbered inserts of franchise icons also proved valuable out of 2021 Topps. One card that collectors chased relentlessly was a Miguel Cabrera autograph parallel from Topps Finest. Cabrera’s career hitting milestone chase and nostalgia for his historic seasons with the Marlins and Tigers made any auto parallel hugely collectible. But Finest took it a step further by limiting his signature card to an ultra-exclusive /10 printing. Just a single PSA 10 example is known to have crossed auction, achieving a staggering $6,500 final bid. More attainably for most, his base Topps Chrome auto from Update still fetches $500-1000 on average depending on the serial number.

Mike Trout remained the golden goose of modern baseball cards, with several 2021 parallels establishing new benchmarks. His 1/1 Topps Finest Gold parallel generated immense buzz and an opening auction bid north of $15,000. While it didn’t end up selling there due to no other bids, it proved unprecedented demand. Even less exclusive 2021 Trout gold foil parallels reached $2,500+ depending on the product and numbering. With Trout not yet 30 years old and surely headed for the Hall of Fame as one of the game’s all-time greats, these elite modern Trout cards figure to keep appreciating for a long time to come.

Whether rookies, veterans, or stars in between, the 2021 Topps series offered a treasure trove of valuable serial-numbered patches, autos, and parallels beyond the standard base issues. While the paper market may cool in future years, savvy collectors who identified and procured the true short prints and one-of-a-kind hits from 2021 appear well positioned to profit down the road as those rare pieces become forever enshrined in the annals of modern cardboard. Topps’ flagship baseball release continues distinguishing itself as the dominant platform for discovering tomorrow’s most prized hobby investments.

2021 DONRUSS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 Donruss Baseball set saw several rookie cards emerge as some of the most valuable and sought after cards on the modern sports card market. While juggernaut stars like Mike Trout and Fernando Tatis Jr continued commanding big money for their parallels and autographs, it was the crop of talented rookies that captured the imagination of collectors and drove a lot of interest in the new set.

Heading into the 2021 season, many viewed Rays shortstop Wander Franco as the consensus top prospect in all of baseball. After tearing it up in his 2020 cameo, collectors were anxious to get their hands on Franco’s rookie cards in the new Donruss release. His standard base card quickly became a $50-100 card in mint condition, with some colors and parallels moving even higher given his star hype and potential. It was his autographs and rare parallels that truly set value records. Franco’s dominant 2021 campaign at the MLB level only amplified collector demand for his prized rookie cards from Donruss. By late 2021, low-numbered parallels of his autograph were bringing $1,000s on the secondary market and rumors of five-figure sales of 1/1s began to surface. Expect Franco’s Donruss rookies to continue appreciating as he asserts himself as a possible generational talent.

Another big league standout whose cards sharply increased in value was Rays pitcher Shane Baz. After tearing up the minors in 2021 following his acquisition from the Pirates, Baz made a strong MLB debut and showed why he was considered a top pitching prospect. His Donruss base rookies moved up to $50-75 by season’s end while autographed and parallel versions sold for several hundred dollars or more. With his upside and potential frontline starter stuff, Baz mania is likely just getting started in the collecting community.

While Franco and Baz captured the spotlight among positional and pitching prospects respectively, Cardinals outfielder/first baseman Dylan Carlson saw his share of cards from Donruss gain steam as well. After a solid rookie campaign in 2020, Carlson took his game to another level in 2021 by slashing .267/.349/.432 with 16 home runs. The emergence of his five-tool abilities as a everyday big leaguer drove strong secondary market gains for his various Donruss cards throughout the season. Like many on this list, Carlson’s dual-eligibility and growing track record at such a young age bode well for sustained collector interest down the road.

Staying in the NL Central, Reds second baseman/outfielder Jonathan India became an overnight sensation by capturing NL Rookie of the Year honors in 2021. Loaded with savvy and skills beyond his years, India exceeded all expectations in his first season. Not surprisingly, collectors took notice of the newcomer and drove up prices on all aspects of his 2021 Donruss cards throughout the awards season. By year’s end, the India base rookie was a $20-30 card while colored parallels and especially autographed memorabilia cards climbed well above the $100-200 range. With an All-Star caliber bat and continued upside, India seems poised to continue captivating collectors with his Donruss cards.

On the coasts, a pair of coastal stars in Padres pitcher MacKenzie Gore and Blue Jays catcher Alejandro Kirk developed fervent collector followings for their 2021 Donruss cards as well. Gore had long been deemed the elite pitching prospect in the loaded Padres system and delivered on that promise pre-MLB with Triple-A dominance in 2021. Meanwhile, Kirk became an instant folk hero in Toronto by mashing from day one at the big league level despite his 5’8″ stature. Both players saw starting prices for their Donruss rookies stabilize in the $15-30 range, which is impressive given the abundant printing of modern baseball sets. Their autographs and rare parallels that surfaced down the stretch popped well above $100 based on collectors falling in love with their respective debut seasons and future potential impact.

Rounding out the breakouts from 2021 Donruss Baseball is White Sox catcher/outfielder Andrew Vaughn. The third overall pick from 2019 had developed slowly in the minors before finding his power stroke in Triple-A and later the majors in 2021. Slashing .277/.352/.439 with 11 home runs over his 78 games, Vaughn showed 5-tool ability and the polish of a future star. Like many on this list, hisDonruss base card steadily traded in the $15-30 range through the year. But scarce autographed and memorabilia picks that surfaced late in the season caught bids pushing $100-200 as collectors bet on Vaughn staking his claim as the future at DH or in the outfield for the rising White Sox.

The 2021 Donruss Baseball release bore witness to the emergence of today’s newest stars and saw many of their rookie cards achieve substantial secondary market value increases as their talents shone through. While juggernauts still reign at the high-end, it’s these exciting rookies that have truly captivated today’s collector base and suggest continued strength in the sports card market lies with chronicling fresh talent through authenticated memorabilia and autographs each new season. Fanatics, Panini and others would be wise to take note that today’s collectors demand premier access to rookie cards from baseball’s next wave of household names, and Donruss delivered powerfully on that front in 2021.

2021 OPTIC BASEBALL VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 season was one that saw baseball make its return after shortened 2020 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fans were excited to get back to the ballpark and players were raring to get back on the field. For collectors, 2021 was a year where the excitement for the hobby reached new heights. Panini’s 2021 Optic Baseball produced some tremendously valuable rookie cards that are already commanding high prices on the secondary market.

Optic has become one of the premier modern baseball card products in recent years thanks to its sharp photography and focus on rookies. The 2021 edition was no exception, spotlighting many of the game’s rising young stars as they began to make their mark in MLB. Among the most coveted rookie cards found in ’21 Optic were those of Rays shortstop Wander Franco, Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic, Rangers outfielder Adley Rutschman and Twins outfielder Alex Kirilloff. Each of these players possessed immense prospect hype that translated to strong early sales and gradeable potential for their rookie cards.

Wander Franco’s prized rookie card in ’21 Optic quickly took the hobby by storm. As the top-rated prospect in baseball, Franco possessed perhaps the most anticipation of any player coming into the season. His autograph and base rookies rocketed to the top of the product value hierarchy. PSA 10 examples of his auto now sell for upwards of $3,000 while pristine base cards trade hands near $400. Franco’s early MLB success cementing himself as the Rays’ star shortstop sure to be an MVP candidate for years to come only adds to the allure.

Another hugely valuable rookie from ’21 Optic was Jarred Kelenic’s collection of cards. The Mariners’ top prospect arrived in Seattle with beaucoup hype that he largely lived up to. His auto fetched close to $1,000 PSA 10 while even base rookies climbed over $100 in gem mint condition early in the season. Kelenic’s five-tool promise and dynamic play styles translates perfectly to the attractiveness of his traded rookie cards. As he continues developing into a perennial All-Star, those ’21 Optics are sure to stay highly sought.

The third biggest hitter from ’21 Optic rookies was Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. Long viewed as the prize of a loaded 2018 draft, Rutschman brought unmatched anticipation as the future cornerstone of Baltimore’s rebuild. His autograph rookie raced north of $700 PSA 10 while the base parallel exceeded $80 for gems. Scouts rave about Rutschman’s elite plate discipline and defense behind the dish that made him an immediate MLB ready talent. With his star potential, these ‘21 Optic Rutschman rookies look primed to appreciate significantly with every accomplishment in Charm City.

Wrapping up the quartet of most valuable rookies from 2021 Optic is Twins outfielder Alex Kirilloff. Long one of the more polished hit tool prospects in the minors, Kirilloff saw his prospect luster transfers smoothly to strong early returns on his rookie cards. PSA 10 autographs reached $400-500 while even common base parallels eclipsed $50 for pristine copies. Kirilloff showcased an advanced approach in his MLB debut that will serve him well as he establishes himself in Minnesota’s everyday lineup. His future All-Star caliber play gives hope that the ’21 Optics could emerge as quite the rewards long term.

Beyond the biggest four, other rookies from 2021 Optic that hold notable value already include Reds second baseman Jonathan India, Marlins pitcher Trevor Rogers, Rays infielder Vidal Brujan, Giants catcher Joey Bart, Rangers pitcher Cole Winn and Cubs outfielder Brennen Davis among several others. Many of these players made positive impressions right away in 2021 that amplified collector demand for their rookie cards at the time of release. With continued developments in their MLB careers, there is solid potential for appreciation down the road.

In addition to the rookie card treasures, 2021 Optic offered several valuable inserts and parallels. The Flux refractors and Violet parallels numbered to /99 became immediate hits. Autographs and Memorabilia cards of emerging talent like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt and Riley Greene pulled huge interest levels. Serialized parallels like Gold (/10), Orange (/25) and Red (/5) achieved big prices due to their ultra-low populations. Veterans stars like Shohei Ohtani and Fernando Tatis Jr also had valuable cards that performed well.

As the hobby enters 2022 at another peak, the 2021 Optic rookies of Franco, Kelenic, Rutschman and Kirilloff plus others continue to hold strong valuations. Their cards are prized future investments for collectors banking that these young talents will reach stardom. With such a memorable rookie class captured, 2021 Optic Baseball is sure to go down as one of the most collectible and valuable modern issues in the sport’s recent history. For years to come, this release looks poised to bring substantial returns to those who had the foresight to lock in copies early.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS FROM 2021

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The 2021 baseball card season was one of the most anticipated in recent memory as fans looked to get their hands on prized rookies and star players after the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. While the hype was certainly there, the supply chain issues that impacted many industries also affected the trading card market, making some of the top cards extremely difficult to find. There were still plenty of standout releases that showcased the game’s brightest young talents and established veterans. Here’s a look at some of the best baseball cards released in 2021:

Bowman Chrome Prospects – The Bowman Chrome Prospects set is always one to watch for the hobby’s top prospects and 2021 was no exception. Cards of Wander Franco, Bobby Witt Jr., Julio Rodriguez, and others looked stunning in the Chrome format. Franco’s prized rookie refractor parallel /50 was one of the most coveted cards of the entire year. While Franco mania took over the hobby, Witt Jr. and Rodriguez also had defining rookie cards to track down.

Topps Chrome Update Series – The flagship Topps Chrome product delivered as always with its Update Series release towards the end of the season. Big hits included Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return from injury, Juan Soto’s continued dominance, and rookie sensations like Shane Baz, Jackson Jobe, and Jose Miranda all having their Chrome rookie debuts. For vintage collectors, a Hank Aaron /1970 parallel to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his record-breaking 715th home run was a very special card to find.

Topps Finest – As one of the premium offerings in the Topps lineup, Finest didn’t disappoint with its refractor and matrix parallel designs. Short prints of Fernando Tatis Jr. and Mookie Betts were standouts, while rookie sensations like Jarred Kelenic, Logan Gilbert, and Spencer Torkelson all had their finest moments in the set too. A rare Mike Trout autograph /10 also captured plenty of attention.

Topps Chrome Jumbo Case Hits – The hobby’s most coveted parallel, the prized Topps Chrome Jumbo Case Hit parallel remained as hard to track down as ever. Pulling a /75 or lower parallel of a star player like Shohei Ohtani, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., or Bo Bichette straight from a jumbo box was a true white whale moment for collectors. Some of the biggest hits included a Wander Franco Black /10 and a Julio Rodriguez Rainbow Foil /5, cementing their rookie card status.

Topps Archives – Topps Archives paid tribute to some of the most iconic designs and players from baseball history. A Hank Aaron ’59 design parallel /99 was a true vintage treasure while cards honoring Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, and others also proved popular. For modern collectors, a Fernando Tatis Jr. ’87 design parallel and Bo Bichette ’93 design parallel were some of the coolest rookie cards in the set.

Topps Big League – While not quite the prospect powerhouse that Bowman is, Topps Big League still delivered some standout rookie cards including Bobby Witt Jr., CJ Abrams, and Jack Leiter. An autograph of Leiter /99 was one of the most sought-after rookie autos of the year. The retro-style design also paid homage to classic Topps sets of the 80s and 90s.

Topps Series 2 – As the flagship set of the year, Series 2 is always a must-watch release. This year didn’t disappoint with big hits including Fernando Tatis Jr.’s return from injury, Wander Franco’s official Topps rookie debut, and prospect call-ups like Jarred Kelenic. Short prints and parallels of stars like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Mookie Betts were also standouts.

Topps Opening Day – While not quite on the level of some of the other Topps products, Opening Day still had its moments in 2021. Rookie debuts of Bobby Witt Jr. and Julio Rodriguez were highlights, while a rare Mike Trout autograph /25 captured plenty of attention from collectors. Retro design parallels also paid tribute to some of the all-time greats like Hank Aaron and Willie Mays.

Topps Transcendent Collection – As one of the true high-end releases of the year, Topps Transcendent Collection lived up to the hype. Ultra-rare autographs and memorabilia cards of legends like Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, and Roberto Clemente redefined luxury within the hobby. For modern stars, 1/1 cards of Fernando Tatis Jr., Juan Soto, and Bo Bichette positioned them as the future faces of the collection. With editions limited between 5-10 copies, finding any Transcendent card was an epic achievement.

While supply chain woes impacted collectors, 2021 was still a banner year for the hobby. Young stars like Wander Franco, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez introduced themselves to the world while veterans like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto further cemented their legacies. With prospects on the rise and a full 162-game season on tap for 2022, the next year promises to be just as exciting between the lines and in the card shop.

BEST CARDS FROM 2021 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL

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The 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball card set was highly anticipated by collectors due to the brand’s reputation for producing some of the shiniest and most desirable rookie cards and parallels on the market each year. Topps Chrome is known for its “refractor” technology that gives the cards a hypnotic shine under light. The 2021 version was no exception, delivering several standout rookie cards and rare parallels that have already become highly sought after by collectors.

Some of the biggest rookie sensations from the 2021 MLB season had their debut Topps Chrome cards, including Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. His base rookie card quickly became a hot commodity due to his electrifying play that had him in the running for American League Rookie of the Year. The Rodriguez rookie refractor parallel versions especially took the hobby by storm, as they feature an eye-catching rainbow color shift effect. These parallels currently command prices well over $1000 each for high-grade copies.

Another AL Rookie of the Year contender who had collectors buzzing about his Topps Chrome rookie was Houston Astros pitcher Hunter Brown. While he didn’t get as much playing time as Rodriguez, Brown showed dominant stuff over 5 starts in his debut season. His base rookie is in high demand, but the prized parallel is the Gold refractor /50. These scarce parallels capture the “gold” in Brown’s arm and regularly sell for $5000+ in gem mint condition.

Over in the National League, Cardinals utilityman Brendan Donovan had a surprise breakout rookie campaign that translated to strong interest in his Topps Chrome RC. The base is reasonably priced but sought after, and the prized parallels include the Orange refractor /150 and Red refractor /5. Low serial numbered Donovan refractors have changed hands for four figures.

Two other NL rookies who made immediate impacts were Reds starter Hunter Greene and Braves center fielder Michael Harris II. Both had electrifying tools that translated to exciting MLB debuts. Their Topps Chrome rookie cards caught on quickly, with the Green refractor /99 and Blue refractor /150 parallels being the parallels to target for collectors. High-grade examples regularly sell in the $500-1000 range.

Veteran superstars also saw some of their best Topps Chrome cards released in 2021. For example, Angels two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani had one of his finest seasons yet, and collectors took notice of the prized Ohtani parallels in the 2021 Topps Chrome set. His base is plentifully pulled but icons love the rare Gold refractor /50, Orange refractor /150 and Red refractor /5 versions for their visual pop. Mint condition examples change hands for thousands.

Another veteran who continued playing at an elite level was Mets first baseman Pete Alonso. “Polar Bear” crushed another 30+ home run season and had collectors hunting his Topps Chrome cards. While his base is affordable, the limited parallels like Gold /50 and Orange /150 have already gained value due to Alonso’s consistent production. Even numbered to just a few dozen copies worldwide, low serial numbered Alonso refractors can fetch five figures.

Two other offensive standouts who delivered career years and had their Topps Chrome cards surge in demand were Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Goldschmidt’s consistency and Guerrero’s breakout power displays made them fan favorites. Their base rookies remain obtainable but limited parallels like Gold, Orange, and Red have exploded in value due to strong player performance and scarcity.

In addition to star rookies and veterans, collectors also chased after rare manufacturing parallels in the 2021 Topps Chrome set. For example, the coveted 1/1 Printing Plates featuring the player’s image but no background design continue to be big ticket items. Other highly sought after parallels include the Gold Wave /10, Rainbow Foil /25, and Superfractor /1 editions. Low serial numbered versions of franchise stars like Mike Trout regularly sell for tens of thousands.

The 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball release was one of the most exciting modern issues due to breakout rookies, veteran stars, and the iconic “refractor” technology. Top cards from standouts like Rodriguez, Brown, Greene, Harris, Ohtani, Alonso and more have already gained significant value and desirability. As the young players continue developing their careers, and parallels remain extremely scarce, the best 2021 Topps Chrome cards are poised to become longtime classics in the hobby. Whether chasing rookie sensations or manufacturing variations, this release offered something for every type of collector.

2021 BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 baseball season brought with it a new crop of intriguing rookie cards and veterans continuing to produce at a high level. The baseball card market exploded in popularity in recent years, attracting legions of new collectors. With an exciting year of play ahead, let’s examine some of the top cards to watch for from the 2021 season.

Perhaps the highest profile rookie cards this season belong to Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Considered a true five-tool player and top prospect in all of baseball, Franco’s cards captured the attention of collectors before he even played a game in the majors. In his short debut campaign, Franco put many of his skills on display by hitting .288 with seven home runs and 39 RBI in 70 games. He is expected to be the future face of the Rays franchise. Franco’s prized rookie cards from Topps, Bowman, and Topps Chrome could gain immense value with a full stellar 2022 season.

Another much-hyped rookie is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays. After an impressive 2019 debut, Guerrero took his game to another level in 2021 by bashing 48 home runs, driving in 123 runs, and batting .296. As the son of a Hall of Famer, Guerrero’s Topps rookie cards from 2019 never seemed to reach the heights that his talent portended. But after putting together an All-Star caliber campaign, Guerrero’s rookie cards from several major manufacturers could start to make deeper impacts in the market.

On the pitching side, Red Sox lefty Chris Sale returned in 2021 after missing two seasons recovering from Tommy John surgery. Still among the game’s elite when healthy, Sale’s first cards back on the mound for Boston could become highly coveted reminders of his dominance if he has another standout year in 2022. Miami’s Trevor Rogers, Washington’s Josiah Gray, and San Diego’s MacKenzie Gore also rose atop prospect lists and made their MLB debuts. Their high-end rookie cards could appreciate given strong sophomore efforts.

Established veterans like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani continue producing jaw-dropping numbers and highlights that attract collector dollars. Trout seems destined to overtake the Babe as the greatest hitter in history, and each of his amazing seasons further cements the high value of his prized memorabilia, especially his flagship Topps and Bowman Chrome rookie cards from 2009 and 2012. Harper re-signed a blockbuster 13-year deal to remain in Philly and continues to be one of the most exciting players in the game. Betts just capped off back-to-back championship seasons in Boston and LA while establishing himself as a modern great. Meanwhile, Ohtani’s two-way feats in 2021 made history and had baseball card buyers flocking to commemorate his excellence.

Some legends of the game who remained active in 2021 and could also see strong interest for their vintage pieces include Albert Pujols of the Dodgers and Cardinals, who belted his 700th career home run this season, and Ryan Zimmerman of the Nationals, who retired after 16 seasons completely spent in DC. Collectors seek to honor these all-time great careers through acquisition of renowned rookie cards and noteworthy serial-numbered relic and autograph additions from recent years.

While the stars will always drive the hobby, sharp collectors also look for opportunities among rising middle-tier players who could break out. Two prime examples from 2021 were Cincinnati’s Jonathan India and Milwaukee’s Corbin Burnes. India prevailed as National League Rookie of the Year after a stellar debut campaign highlighted by 34 extra-base hits and 10 stolen bases. Burnes cemented his status as one of MLB’s premier arms by leading the National League in ERA (2.43) and WHIP (0.94) en route to winning the Cy Young Award. Upper-tier India and Burnes rookies from Topps, Panini, and Bowman could gain steady demand into the future.

On the team front, Atlanta emerged as a modern dynasty by winning its first World Series title since 1995 behind the superb play of Ronald Acuña Jr., Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies and company. The championship run has increased collecting interest in unique Braves parallels, autographs, and star rookies from recent years. Plus, the debut of new franchises like the Tampa Bay Rays has created demand for scarce early cards documenting their arrival. Such franchise-specific pieces allow collectors to enjoy memorable seasons through special team-centric memorabilia.

Long story short, the 2021 baseball season thrilled collectors with new rookie phenoms, vintage legends maintaining excellence, breakout stars arriving and championship cores cementing legacies. With another action-packed campaign on tap in 2022, dedicated baseball card traders and investors will certainly have plenty of prestigious modern and classic memorabilia to pursue adding to their collections for years to come. The industry’s non-stop growth signals no slowdown any time soon.

2021 PRIZM BASEBALL DRAFT PICKS BEST CARDS

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The 2021 MLB Draft featured many talented prospects that have the potential for stardom at baseball’s highest level. While it remains to be seen how these young players’ careers will unfold, collectors have already taken notice of some of the top names selected in last year’s draft class. Upper Deck’s 2021 Prizm baseball product offers affordable rookie cards for these newly drafted players, several of which have already seen noticeable price increases. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 2021 Prizm Baseball Draft Picks cards that could prove to most lucrative long-term holdings for savvy collectors.

Perhaps the biggest name from the 2021 draft class is Pittsburgh Pirates’ first overall selection Henry Davis. The catcher from Louisville was widely considered the best player available and finished runner-up for Golden Spikes Award as the top college player in the nation in 2021. His 2021 Prizm Orange Ice refractor rookie /499 has already eclipsed the $100 price point. The sheer scarcity and demand for Davis as the number one pick makes this one of the more valuable cards from the set at the moment. Davis will have plenty of opportunities to drive his values up even higher as the future backstop for the Pirates.

Detroit Tigers’ third overall pick Jackson Jobe has also impressed scouts with a plus fastball and well-rounded pitch mix. Jobe led the nation in strikeouts during his freshman season at Heritage Hall High School in Oklahoma City. His base Prizm Silver Prizm rookie sells in the $25-30 range currently. As long as Jobe continues developing his promising repertoire while rising through Detroit’s farm system, his Prizm rookies stand to gain more traction over the long run.

Another early draftee turning heads is Blue Jays’ fourth selection Gunnar Hoglund. The right-handed pitcher from Ole Miss underwent Tommy John surgery in 2021 but still landed a $3 million bonus from Toronto. Hoglund’s above average four-pitch mix and 6’4 size gives him a high ceiling if he can stay healthy. His Prizm Green Ice Prizm rookie /199 is priced modestly for now around $15-20 but is a solid long term prospecting target.

Later picks that could develop into steals for their respective organizations include Braves’ third round selection Ryan Cusick and Marlins’ fifth rounder Jacob Miller. Both prep arms flashed plus velocity that enticed their drafting clubs. Cusick’s Prizm Silver Pack Fresh Prizm rookie and Miller’s base Prizm rookie can currently be found for under $10 each, offering affordable upside plays. Paying attention to how these young hurlers progress might yield future rewards.

Switching to the offensive side, Tigers second rounder Izaac Pacheco has already shown five-tool potential in pro ball. Although drafted as a shortstop, the versatile Pacheco has split time at second and third base as well. His smooth lefty swing generated pop at the plate and his athleticism and instincts give him all-star upside. Priced around $15 presently, Pacheco’s Prizm Orange Ice Prizm rookie carries appeal as a potential breakout performer.

Looking further down draft boards, a few later selections with tools potentially waiting to blossom include Twins’ fourth rounder Armani Smith and A’s seventh rounder Lazaro Armenteros. Smith showcased elite speed that could profile in center field if his wood bat bat catches up. Meanwhile, Armenteros flashed big raw power from the left side to go along with a strong arm in right field. Both prospects can be obtained for under $10 per Prizm base rookie at this early stage, leaving room for appreciation as their games develop.

There are also a few 2021 draftees who opted not to sign professionally and instead intend to continue their college careers, headlined by Louisville catcher Henry Davis’ teammate and Ole Miss righty Drew McDaniel. While collectors will have to wait longer to see their first pro cards, Prizm collegiate rookies like Davis’ from 2020 have still conveyed solid returns for patient holders. McDaniel in particular has frontline starter upside and might re-enter next year’s draft class even more polished than before.

While it remains unknown how any of these players’ careers will play out long term, the 2021 MLB Draft class offers attractive risk-reward profiles for baseball card investors through affordable Prizm rookie options. With patience, some of these prospects could evolve into truly impact MLB talents whose earliest cardboard appearances increase greatly in value as a result. By doing thorough research on a player’s tools, skills and competitive nature, savvy collectors can identify draft picks most likely to blossom as professionals.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 2021

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The baseball card market exploded in popularity in 2021 as interest in sports card collecting skyrocketed. Fueled by a surge of new collectors and enthusiast investors looking to capitalize on the booming market, record prices were set across all sports card categories in 2021, with the most valuable and expensive baseball cards leading the way. Below is a breakdown of some of the most valuable and expensive baseball cards released in 2021 based on verified auction sales, as well as some context around what makes them so desirable and collectible.

Kicking off the list is the 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Aaron Judge rookie refractor (#TTS-AJ) which garnered huge buzz and broke records when it debuted toward the end of the year. With its limited print run of just 10 total copies and Judge’s status as one of baseball’s hottest young stars chasing the AL single-season home run record, this ultra-short printed card commanded over $350,000 at auction in late 2021, setting a record for highest price paid for a 2021 card. The desirable refractor parallel combined with Judge’s rising star power and the inherent scarcity of the 10-card print run makes this one of the most iconic and coveted new cards to hit the market in 2021.

Another Aaron Judge rookie that gained immense traction was the 2017 Topps Series 1 Judge rookie (#377) , largely considered his true “base” rookie card which is universally sought after by Yankee collectors. Fresh PSA GEM MT 10 graded examples crossed the $200,000-mark for the first time in late 2021 auctions, reflecting Judge’s amazing season and heightened demand fromcompletistcollectors seeking flawless quality examples of such an important modern rookie card. The surge of new collectors influx to the market gaveJudge’srookiecardsignificantliftwhilethunderwasstillhotfromhisthenongoinghistorical home run chase.

Shifting gears to an older legend, a Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps rookie (#311) also broke new ground, with a PSA 5 copy hammering for over $216,000 at auction in early December 2021. While not in pristine condition, Mantle is arguably the most coveted name in baseball cards and collectors regularly pay huge premiums for any Mint or better graded example of his iconic rookie issue. This sale underscored the unfading demand for high-quality examples of Mantle’s rookie despite its age, as collectors and investors were eager to acquire blue chip names even in lower grades.

Staying with vintage greats, a Lou Gehrig 1933 Goudey (#53) in extremely rough condition selling for $180,000 represented another record achieved for a pre-war baseball card in 2021. While tattered and worn, Gehrig’s name and status as one of the all-time finest players continues to command outsized interest, even for severely damaged relics from the early 1930s Goudey set which had print runs estimated at only a few hundred or couple thousand copies at most for each individual card issue when first distributed as gum packaging inserts. Condition is largely irrelevant when acquiring a rare piece of history like this.

Flash forwarding to the ’70s, a Nolan Ryan 1974 Topps (#305) PSA 9 copy also set records when it sold for over $66,000 in November 2021. While not his true rookie, collectors still demand high-grade specimens of Ryan’s early Topps issues given his Hall of Fame career and status as a pitching legend. This example in pristine Near Mint condition achieved one of the highest prices on record for any pre-’80s Nolan Ryan card in a modern era auction. It underscored the sustained interest in acquiring quality specimens from Ryan’s early career while he was still an active star.

Rounding out the list is the undeniable behemoth of the modern card market, a Mike Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks and Prospects Superfractor (#BTBP-MT) which sold for $3.936 million in August 2021, obliterating all previous records for the highest price paid for any sports card. The card’s unprecedented rarity as one of just five copies produced, coupled with Trout blossoming into a generational superstar and three-time AL MVP, has cemented it as perhaps the single most valuable collectible in the entire trading card industry today. No other new card commanded the type of eye-popping 9-figure price this Trout superfractor did in 2021.

All of these breakthrough sales point to several common themes that drove skyrocketing valuations across the hobby in 2021 – Rarity, star power of historically great players still in their primes or ascending like Judge and Trout, impeccable condition attainable grades, and heritage aspects like vintage hall of famers, rookie cards, and iconic classic designs. With the sports card market showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon, these records could soon be eclipsed. But they stand today as some of the most significant milestones achieved in the burgeoning world of valuable modern baseball memorabilia from the 2021 season.

VALUE OF BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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The value of baseball cards has seen significant fluctuations over the years. After declining in the late 1990s and 2000s, values rebounded strongly in the 2010s. Many factors influence the value of individual cards and the collectibles market as a whole. This article will examine some of the key influencers of baseball card values in 2021 and how the overall market has changed.

One of the biggest factors driving up baseball card values in recent years is increased demand from both casual collectors and serious investors. Baseball cards were enormously popular from the late 1980s through the early 1990s before declining interest caused a glut in production and falling prices. Thanks to increased nostalgia and recognition of cards as alternative assets, the collector base has grown substantially since the late 2000s. Both veteran collectors returning to the hobby and younger new collectors entering it have increased competition for desirable vintage and modern rookie cards of star players. This surge in demand has caused appreciation across many sections of the market.

Grading and authentication have also played a crucial role. The advent of professional third-party grading through services like PSA, BGS, and SGC in the mid-1980s provided a way for collectors to independently verify a card’s condition and authenticity. Receiving high numerical grades, especially coveted PSA/BGS 10s, can multiply a card’s value many times over. This created a whole culture around chasing “gem mint” graded examples. While grading was once a niche part of the hobby, it is now standard practice for serious collectors and an important driver of values. Features like encased slabs add to cards’ desirability as long-term investments.

Some key players who set record prices in recent years and whose cards remain highly sought after include Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and others. These young superstars, often hailed as future Hall of Famers, have captured collector attention and bolstered the modern side of the market. Their rookie cards in particular shatter records, with some pristine PSA/BGS 10 examples of Trout and Harper rookies selling for over $400,000 each. Demand shows no signs of slowing for cards of today’s top talents before they fully establish their careers and legacies.

Vintage stars from the pre-1970s “Golden Age” of baseball also remain blue-chip investments. The highest baseball card prices ever paid are usually for iconic cards like the 1909-11 T206 “White Border” set, 1913 Diamond Stars Joe Jackson, 1914 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson, 1914 Cracker Jack Eddie Plank, 1915 Cracker Jack Rube Marquard, and others. As these ultra-premium vintage pieces become fewer and fewer, collectors are branching out to mid-range stars from the 1910s-50s that were once more affordable. Condition is still paramount, with high-grade examples of even relatively “common” vintage players appreciating dramatically.

While the coronavirus pandemic paused live sports, it created a spike in interest across the collectibles market. With more disposable income and time at home, existing collectors bought and traded more aggressively online. An influx of new, younger collectors also entered the scene. This pandemic boost exacerbated baseball card’s already rising values on top of other long-term trends. It marks a true renaissance for what was once merely a childhood pastime but is now a serious niche of alternative investments and a multi-billion-dollar industry.

Looking ahead, there is little sign of slowing for demand if today’s stars maintain careers worthy of enshrinement. High-profile rookie card pulls on YouTube also expose new audiences to the hobby. Values could fluctuate with economic cycles as with any collectibles, but long-term appreciation seems built on new interest and a finite vintage supply. Technologies like blockchain authentication may even unlock new potential. Today’s baseball card market is as strong as it’s been in decades after a rebound from late-1990s lows. Looking back will prove the 2010s were a transformative period that reshaped the collectibles space permanently for the better. Values at all levels remain robust heading into 2021.

After declining in past decades, the overall baseball card market has seen values surge significantly since the late 2000s due to increased collecting interest, use of authentication/grading services, star rookies capturing attention, and vintage scarcity driving up prices of older stars. The Covid-19 pandemic further accelerated trends as new and existing collectors invested more in the space. So long as today’s talents carry star power and collectibility into the future, demand will likely remain robust into 2021 and beyond, keeping baseball cards a thriving area of the larger collectibles industry. Their resurgence over the 2010s put the category on much firmer footing for long-term sustainable value appreciation.

2021 LEAF DRAFT BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 Leaf Draft baseball set featured prospects selected in the 2021 MLB June Amateur Draft. While not the biggest release of the year, it featured several highly touted prospects that have already seen their rookie cards start to gain value. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 2021 Leaf Draft baseball cards on the market right now.

The undisputed king of the 2021 Leaf Draft set is Pittsburgh Pirates’ first overall pick Henry Davis. As the top selection in the entire draft, Davis’ prized rookie card /499 from Leaf Draft is one of the hottest prospects on the market. While print runs are still relatively high given it’s only been a few months since the cards were released, Davis’ Leaf Draft rookie has already started a meteoric rise in value. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $1,000 with the price steadily increasing. Even raw copies in near-mint to mint condition command $300-500 based on recent eBay sales.

Davis’ impressive performance in his pro debut for Low-A Bradenton only added to the hype. In 50 at-bats, Davis slashed .303/.429/.485 with 3 home runs. Scouts rave about his offensive upside as a power-hitting catcher, a rare combo. Davis has all the makings of a true five-tool player and future All-Star, making his rookie cards one of the smartest long-term prospects to hold. As he continues to develop, Davis’ Leaf Draft rookie could eventually rival the prices seen for top pick cards from years past like Adley Rutschman or Joe Mauer.

Another 2021 Leaf Draft card that has seen impressive early gains is Vanderbilt righty Jack Leiter, who was taken second overall by the Texas Rangers. Leiter came into the draft as one of the most polished pitching prospects in recent memory thanks to his time with the Commodores. He dominated in his pro debut with Short Season A Hickory, striking out 12 over 6 shutout innings in his first start. Leiter’s /499 Leaf Draft rookie has followed a similar upward trajectory to Davis. PSA 10 examples have reached $800-900 and raw NM/MT copies sell for $200-300. As Leiter continues to overperform, his card stands to gain even more in the coming years.

While Davis and Leiter were the consensus top two picks, another player from the draft class that has impressed is Robert Hassell III. Selected 8th overall by the San Diego Padres, Hassell has had an excellent start to his pro career. In 45 Low-A games, Hassell hit .299/.383/.457 with 5 home runs, showing off his impressive all-around game that made him a top-10 talent. As a result, his Leaf Draft rookie card /499 has seen a nice bump in value. PSA 10s have crossed $400 and raw NM copies range from $100-150 based on recent sales. Hassell has a bright future as a potential everyday player for the Padres and his card looks positioned well long-term.

Rounding out the most valuable 2021 Leaf Draft cards so far is Brady House, who the Rangers took in the competitive balance round. House was considered one of the draft’s top power bats and he’s started to flash that pop early in his career. In 32 games between the ACL and Low-A, House hit an impressive .310/.382/.510 with 3 homers. His /499 Leaf Draft rookie has followed suit, gaining value faster than expected for a later first-round pick. PSA 10 House rookies have reached $300 while raw NM/MT copies sell for $75-100. As House continues filling out his 6’4 frame and taps into more of his raw power, his card’s price trajectory looks very promising.

While the 2021 MLB Draft class remains relatively untested at the pro level, Davis, Leiter, Hassell, and House have stood out so far with their early performances. As a result, their prized rookie cards from Leaf’s 2021 Draft set have emerged as some of the most valuable on the secondary market. With their upside, these four players in particular stand to gain even more recognition that could send their rookie card values higher. For savvy collectors, snatching up PSA 10 or high-grade raw copies of these prospects now could prove to be shrewd long-term investments.

Beyond the top four, a few other 2021 Draft picks whose Leaf rookie cards have shown early gains include Jackson Jobe (Tigers), Sam Bachman (Marlins), and Benny Montgomery (Phillies). However, Davis, Leiter, Hassell, and House have separated themselves the most so far with their pro debuts and future star potential. Their Leaf Draft rookie cards have established themselves as the true blue-chip prospects from the 2021 class. As these talented players continue developing in the minors and hopefully reach the Majors one day, their coveted rookie cards could grow exponentially in value and become some of the most sought after modern prospect cards on the market. Only time will tell just how great these four players may become, but their Leaf Draft rookies offer collectors a prime opportunity to get in early on some of the newest prospects with superstar upside.