Tag Archives: 2021

PANINI CONTENDERS BASEBALL 2021 MOST VALUABLE CARDS

Panini’s Contenders franchise is one of the industry leaders when it comes to hobby box exclusivity and production of premium memorabilia cards. For the 2021 season, Panini upped the ante with their Contenders Baseball release, including coveted rookie jersey autographs of top prospects as well as iconic veteran swatches. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the prize possessions from this year’s checklist and what factors are driving certain parallels and serial numbered variants to significantly higher valuations on the secondary marketplace.

Perhaps the biggest “chase card” from 2021 Contenders Baseball is the Wander Franco Green Wave Autograph parallel. Franco had one of the most hyped prospects in recent memory coming into the season and lived up to the billing by tearing it up in his MLB debut for the Tampa Bay Rays. This short print jersey auto carries a serial number out of just 10 copies. Given Franco’s superstar trajectory and the extreme scarcity, PSA 10 Gem Mint examples have sold for over $8,000. Other low serial numbered Franco autographs also demand premium prices upwards of $3,000-$5,000.

Another rookie who made an immediate impact in 2021 was Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert. His Black Gold parallel auto /10 holds significant cache due to Gilbert’s success as a call-up and the challenge of pulling this exclusive parallel. While not fetching Wander Franco prices yet, PSA 10 Gilbert Black Gold autos have traded hands for $2,000-$3,000. This price points to Gilbert having franchise cornerstone potential and Black Gold continuing to represent the pinnacle parallel in the hobby.

Some veteran stars also received exquisite memorabilia treatments in 2021 Contenders. A noteworthy example is the Mike Trout Purple Wave Auto /5. Trout remains the undisputed face of MLB and grabs attention anytime his autographed relics appear. In PSA 10 condition with such a small printed run, Trout’s Purple Wave fetched over $4,000 at auction. Another ace, Los Angeles Dodgers starter Walker Buehler, saw his Black Gold Auto /10 change hands for $1,500. These veteran superstars maintain a strong collector base that values highly rare patches and autographs from proven performers.

Lower serial numbered parallels aren’t the only Contenders cards trending upwards. Base rookie jersey autos of other top prospects like Rays shortstop Taylor Walls and Cubs left-hander Justin Steele have crept up towards $500 PSA 10 prices. Both saw MLB playing time in 2021 and have potential as future contributors. Walls’ defense earned him a starting job while Steele flashed an impressive repertoire out of Chicago’s rotation. As years pass, early production can cement a player’s reputation and make their debut year cards steadily more coveted.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Design Variations added further complexity to the checklist. Higher grade examples of Reds second baseman Jonathan India’s Green /66 auto have traded for nearly $400. India took home NL Rookie of the Year honors and the limited parallels captured attention. Design Variations also became valuable finds for pitchers Max Meyer and Jackson Jobe, two first round arms with potential impact down the road. Even base colors can hold value when attached to the right players, as demonstrated by Card 14 Alec Bohm’s $250 PSA 10 price tag.

In conclusion, 2021 Panini Contenders Baseball embodied the hobby’s dual fascination with scarce memorabilia from proven legends coupled with seeking out future stars in their early pro cards. Proven veterans like Trout and budding young talents such as Franco and Gilbert powered some exceptionally high-value hits. Meanwhile, breakers and collectors stayed tuned in for lesser known prospects and production variations that gained traction upon delivering strong rookie campaigns. With Contenders maintaining its luster as a premier memorabilia brand, valuations for top cards should remain influenced heavily by on-field performance and respective print runs.

2021 TOPPS MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS

The 2021 baseball season saw a continuation of the explosive growth in the sports card collecting hobby that began in 2020. Fueled by pandemic conditions that kept many fans engaging with their favorite sports in non-traditional ways, combined with renewed mainstream interest in collectibles as an investment vehicle, vintage and modern baseball cards reached new heights in terms of both demand and skyrocketing prices throughout 2021.

Some of the most notable risers were rookie cards of budding superstars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Juan Soto. Tatis’ 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card, perhaps the single most coveted modern baseball card on the market, surged past the $300,000 sales threshold last year. Meanwhile, Soto’s equally scarce 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Supplemental purple refractor 1/1 superfractor skyrocketed from around $30,000 in 2020 to well over $200,000 by year’s end.

Vintage cards also made waves in 2021. A rare 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, long considered the holy grail of collectibles, sold for a record-shattering $6.6 million in a private sale. Earlier in the year an authenticated 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card sold for $5.2 million, making it the most valuable post-war sportscard ever.

While ultra high-end vintage rarities and star modern rookie cards headline the biggest money moves in the hobby, there were also plenty of examples in 2021 of more attainable modern issues appreciating significantly in value due to surging demand:

2021 Topps Chrome Update Red Refractor Vladimir Guerrero Jr. RC auto (#’d /99): Guerrero followed up his breakout 2021 AL MVP campaign by skyrocketing the value of his arguably most iconic modern card up past $3,000 average sales.

2021 Topps Chrome Update Orange Refractor Fernando Tatis Jr. auto (/199): With Tatis cementing himself as one of the faces of MLB, his Topps Chrome Update orange parallel auto from the same year edged up near $2,000 consistently.

2021 Topps Complete Set Mike Trout Superfractor RC (/25): Featuring one of the game’s all-time greats on perhaps his rarest modern card design, Trout’s 2021 Topps SF RC doubled in value to an average around $5,000 last year.

2021 Topps Sapphire Bo Bichette Purple Refractor (/299): Emerging as a star for Toronto, Bichette’s coveted purple sapphire parallel topped $800 on average after debuting around $400 earlier in ‘21.

2021 Topps Chrome Red Wave Refractor Brett Baty RC (/199): As a touted Mets prospect, Baty’s pop grew his vivid red wave parallel up past the $500 sales point by year’s end.

2021 Topps Gold Label Juan Soto Superfractor (/10): Featuring one of the faces of MLB on an ultra-rare parallel, average sales of Soto’s Gold Label superfractor doubled to around $2,000 in 2021.

Perhaps unsurprisingly given this context of rising player values, the most expensive 2021 Topps card sales of the year involved star talents on short-printed parallels, serial numbered inserts or autograph cards. Here are some of the costliest 2021 Topps cards that traded hands in the exploding modern card market last year:

2021 Topps Inception Red Paper /99 Ronald Acuña Jr. Auto – $11,500

2021 Topps Inception Black Wave Auto Patch /10 Fernando Tatis Jr. – $10,000

2021 Topps Finest Auto Patch /5 Fernando Tatis Jr. – $9,999

2021 Topps Update Gold Refractor Auto /70 Vlad Jr. – $9,500

2021 Topps Chrome Black Refractor Auto /50 Wander Franco – $9,000

2021 Topps Supreme Black /50 Juan Soto Auto – $8,750

2021 Topps Update Rainbow Foil Auto /5 Ronald Acuña Jr. – $7,600

2021 Topps Inception White Hot /25 Bo Bichette Auto – $7,100

2021 Topps Chrome Gold Refractor Auto /70 Shoehi Ohtani – $6,800

2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto /5 Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – $6,300

As is often the case when analyzing the sports card market, the 2021 season highlighted that while certain vintage rarities will always reign at the pinnacle in terms of jaw-dropping price tags, modern star players reaching their prime or just beginning to blossom can quickly drive select parallels and autographs of theirs into the stratosphere as well. With fan enthusiasm for collecting showing no signs of slowing down as we head into 2022, another potentially record-setting year appears ahead across the booming sports card world.

2021 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

The 2021 Topps Heritage Baseball series is one of the most popular vintage-style baseball card releases of the year. Paying homage to the iconic Topps designs of the 1960s and 1970s, Topps Heritage transports collectors back to the golden era of the cardboard pastime. With shiny chrome parallels, autographs, and rare short prints, the 2021 edition offers modern collectors numerous chase cards at varying price points.

Topps Heritage has developed a reputation for being a budget-friendly set with high collectability. The base cards are available at prices affordable enough for casual collectors. Each base card features a player photograph in the retro design overlay and original team logo. Base rookies and stars can be found for under $5 per card, making it easy to build full sets. Savvy collectors know some of the parallels and short prints carries significantly more value.

Perhaps the most valuable standard card in the 2021 Topps Heritage release is the popular Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager. Seager’s breakout 2020 season which included NLCS and World Series MVP awards have skyrocketed his stock as one of the game’s top young stars. Seager’s base card carries a median eBay sell value around $15-20. Variations like the Heritage High Number short print or autographed parallel would fetch exponentially higher prices.

Another valuable base rookie card is Cleveland Indians starter Triston McKenzie. McKenzie broke out in 2020 with a promising debut featuring impressive swing-and-miss stuff. His upside as a future ace commands strong attention from prospect collectors. Raw copies of McKenzie’s Heritage rookie card trade in the $10-15 range. Like Seager, pricier parallels could sell for over $100.

Several established stars hold prominent cardboard real estate in the Heritage design, fueling demand and value. Cards of Yankees ace Gerrit Cole and Dodgers righty Trevor Bauer regularly sell above $10 due to their frontrunner status in 2020 AL and NL Cy Young races. The vintage design resonates strongly with collectors of these modern aces and showcased talents.

Short prints make up approximately 10 cards scattered throughout each Heritage product release. These scarce parallels feature parallel numbering below the standard issue count, jacking up their allure to completionists. Some key 2021 short prints like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Adley Rutschman fetch $30-50 raw depending on condition due to their star power and print scarcity.

Chrome parallels possess an extra layer of flash compared to the standard finish Heritage cards. Topps Chrome and Topps Chrome Update variants often multiply base card values two to five times for stars, rookies and short prints. Popular rookie chromes of Bobby Witt Jr. and Jarred Kelenic are valued between $20-40 on the secondary market. Veteran star chromes like Mike Trout and Mookie Betts trade hands above $50.

Autograph cards represent the true blue-chip chase cards within Heritage sets. Featuring seasoned veterans, rookies and prospects signing on their classic Heritage image, autographed cards command big prices from collectors. Well-centered, on-card autographs of up-and-comers like MacKenzie Gore and Grayson Rodriguez are valued north of $100. Autographs of franchise icons tend to fetch the highest sums – a pristine Mike Piazza auto sold for over $500.

Overall condition and centering hold greater importance for Heritage cards due to their vintage-inspired design. While slightly off-center base cards can still be attained for budget prices, the premium parallels demand sharp corners and strong centering to maximize value. As with any collectible, careful grading at PSA or BGS can multiplyprices significantly for Gem Mint Heritage cards in protective slabs.

Whether collecting full sets, chasing stars or pursuing vintage flavor, Topps Heritage offers a lot of cardboard bang for your buck in 2021. Buoyed by nostalgia, thriving young talent and limited printing, the heritage of these retro cards secures their place as favorites for collectors both casual and core. With affordable entry points and opportunities for astute collectors to multiply their money, each new year of Heritage signifies another chance to build baseball memories.

BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS 2021

The 2021 Bowman baseball card release was one of the most highly anticipated issues of the year. Produced by Topps, Bowman is the premier brand for rookie cards and prospects in the hobby. Each year, Bowman gives collectors their first card of many future MLB stars as rookies before they make their major league debuts.

The 2021 set continued this tradition by featuring the likes of Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., CJ Abrams and more top prospects. The release was not without challenges and controversies that sparked debates among collectors. From production delays to short printed parallels, the 2021 Bowman release highlighted ongoing issues within the trading card industry.

To start, the main Bowman base set was pushed back multiple times due to “unforeseen production delays” according to Topps. Originally scheduled for a March release, it was moved to late April and then again to mid-May. This frustrated many collectors who had to wait over two months past the initial planned street date.

When the cards did arrive in late May, reports quickly surfaced of short printed parallel cards, particularly the prized green shimmer parallel inserts. These parallels, which feature top prospects, were allegedly printed in extremely low numbers that did not align with the odds listed on packs. This led to accusations of artificial scarcity by Topps to increase resale value for hits that collectors could not pull themselves.

Quality control issues plagued the 2021 Bowman release. Dents, poor centering, and print lines were rampant across the base cards. This was a disappointment considering Bowman’s typical high production standards in the past. Many collectors felt Topps cut corners this year to try and meet demand after the long delays.

On the secondary market, prices of the top Bowman rookie cards skyrocketed. Julio Rodriguez topped most want lists and his green shimmer parallel rocketed up to thousands of dollars per card on auction sites. The demand far outweighed the reported short supply. Other coveted rookies like Bobby Witt Jr. and CJ Abrams also commanded huge price tags.

While secondary pricing reflected excitement for the new crop of prospects, it also highlighted broader economic trends affecting the entire sports card industry. Raw materials shortages due to COVID-19 and overwhelming demand fueled by a “card boom” meant print runs could not keep pace. This imbalance of high demand but constrained supply drove card values up at an unprecedented rate.

Despite the challenges, the 2021 Bowman release still gave collectors their annual glimpse of future stars. Rookies like Rodriguez, Witt and Abrams showed why they were so highly touted with their early minor league performances. This success on the field added to the cachet of their rookie cards and long term collectability in the hobby. Only time will tell if they become the next Mike Trout or Ronald Acuña Jr.

Looking ahead, Topps has promised changes to address many of the 2021 issues. They vowed more transparency around print runs and parallel odds going forward. Quality control also needs to improve to meet collectors’ high standards. If delivered, these adjustments could restore confidence in the Bowman brand and excitement for the 2022 release, which is sure to showcase another exciting class of prospects.

While the 2021 Bowman release faced difficulties, it still provided a window into the next generation of baseball stars. Demand remains sky high for these rookie cards, showing the enduring allure of collecting prospects before they make the majors. With adjustments by Topps, Bowman can get back on track to its place as the premier rookie card platform in the industry. The rollercoaster of 2021 only adds to the history and intrigue surrounding one of the hobby’s flagship baseball card sets.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS 2021

The 2021 baseball card season was another exciting year in the hobby, with numerous rookie stars making their debuts on cardboard and veteran players reaching major career milestones. Whether you’re a collector looking to invest in the next big thing or a fan wanting cards of your favorite players, here are some of the top baseball cards released in 2021 that captured the essence of last season.

Shohei Ohtani – 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor (#166)

What Shohei Ohtani accomplished in 2021 was nothing short of remarkable. Not only did he slash .257/.372/.592 with 46 home runs as a hitter, but he also went 9-2 with a 3.18 ERA and 156 strikeouts on the mound. Ohtani’s two-way brilliance captivated the baseball world and made him the unanimous AL MVP. His rookie cards skyrocketed in value as a result. The 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor parallel captured the attention of collectors due to its flashy refractors and low serial numbers. Graded gem mint 10 copies of this Ohtani rookie card sold for over $1000 at the height of the season. With Ohtani cementing himself as a true generational talent, his rookie cards will remain at the top of want lists for years to come.

Juan Soto – 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor Auto (#166)

At just 23 years old, Juan Soto has already established himself as one of the game’s best hitters. In 2021, he slashed .313/.465/.534 with 29 home runs and 95 RBI for the Nationals. Soto is also one of the most sought-after young stars in the hobby. His 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor Auto parallel features his stylized signature on a flashy blue refractor stock. Only 99 copies were produced, making this one of Soto’s scarcest autographed rookie cards. High-end PSA 10 and BGS 10 examples sold for $3000-4000 last season. With Soto’s prodigious talent and cult following among collectors, this card remains a premier long-term investment in the rising superstar.

Fernando Tatis Jr. – 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto (#166)

It’s hard to believe Fernando Tatis Jr. is still only 23 years old with the way he plays the game. In 2021, he slashed .282/.364/.611 with a league-leading 42 home runs for the Padres. Tatis is one of the most electric and marketable players in MLB today. His 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto parallel features an iridescent rainbow pattern on the front paired with his signature on the back. Only 10 of these ultra-rare cards exist. One copy that received a perfect PSA 10 grade sold for a staggering $15,000 last season. With Tatis poised for continued superstardom, his low-numbered premier autos will hold tremendous long-term value.

Ronald Acuña Jr. – 2021 Topps Finest Black Auto (/99)

After tearing his ACL in July, Ronald Acuña Jr. was limited to just 82 games in 2021. He still showed why he’s one of the game’s most dynamic players when healthy by slashing .283/.394/.596 with 24 home runs. Acuña is also a fan favorite in the hobby for his flashy playstyle and stylized autograph. His 2021 Topps Finest Black Auto parallel features his “RAJR” signature emblazoned across a black refractor backdrop. Only 99 copies exist, making it one of Acuña’s scarcer on-card autos from last year’s crop. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5+ examples sold in the $800-1000 range during the season.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – 2021 Topps Chrome Gold Refractor Auto (/50)

After a breakout 2020 season, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. took his game to an MVP caliber level in 2021. He led the AL with 48 home runs while slashing .311/.401/.601 for the Blue Jays. Guerrero is also one of the most hyped young stars in the hobby. His 2021 Topps Chrome Gold Refractor Auto parallel features an elegant gold refractor backdrop paired with his signature. Only 50 copies exist, making each one highly coveted. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5+ editions sold for $2000-3000 last season. With Guerrero still just 22 years old, this low-numbered premiere chrome auto possesses immense long-term potential.

Bobby Witt Jr. – 2021 Bowman Chrome Orange Refractor Auto (/99)

As the #2 overall pick in the 2019 draft, Bobby Witt Jr. entered pro ball with huge expectations. In his rookie season split between High-A and Double-A, he showed why by slashing .290/.361/.540 with 33 home runs. Witt then made his MLB debut in 2022 for the Royals. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Orange Refractor Auto parallel is one of his most sought-after rookie cards. Featuring an electric orange refractor backdrop and clean signature, only 99 copies exist. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5+ editions sold in the $800-1000 range last season but will likely appreciate significantly given Witt’s star power and early MLB success.

Jacob deGrom – 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor (#166)

At 33 years old, Jacob deGrom showed he remains the most dominant pitcher in baseball when healthy in 2021. He posted a 1.08 ERA with 146 strikeouts in 92 innings before injuries sidelined him for the second half. deGrom is also a fan favorite collector item given his elite skills on the mound. His 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor captures “The Ace” in his Mets uniform on a flashy refracting stock. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5+ editions sold in the $300-500 range last season. Even with injury concerns, deGrom’s on-field brilliance and status as a modern pitching icon give this card strong long-term potential.

Pete Alonso – 2021 Topps Finest Negative Auto (/50)

After winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2019, Pete Alonso has established himself as the heart and soul of the Mets franchise. He followed up his 53 home run rookie campaign with 37 more longballs in 2021. Alonso also has a strong collector following for his fun persona. His 2021 Topps Finest Negative Auto parallel features an innovative negative image design along with his signature. Only 50 copies exist, making each one a true spectacle in hand. PSA 10 and BGS 9.5+ editions sold for $1000-1500 last season. As Alonso continues powering the Mets’ lineup, this one-of-a-kind auto will retain significant prestige.

In summary, 2021 saw another crop of premier young stars like Ohtani, Guerrero Jr., Witt Jr. and more make their cardboard debuts. Meanwhile, veterans like deGrom, Tatis Jr. and Soto cemented their status among the game’s elite with MVP caliber seasons. Their top rookie cards and low-numbered autographed parallels captured the magic of last year and will hold long-term value in collections for years to come. Whether you’re looking to invest, collect your PC, or commemorate 2021’s brightest performers, these cards captured the true essence of last season.

WALMART TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2021

Topps baseball cards are considered the gold standard in sports card collecting and Walmart continues to be a major retailer for the iconic brand in 2021. Since its founding in 1938, Topps has produced baseball cards annually and remains the official on-card provider for Major League Baseball.

At Walmart, collectors can find a wide selection of 2021 Topps baseball card products on shelves and online. The main flagship release is 2021 Topps Series 1 baseball cards. Featuring designs on the wrapper and box reminiscent of rookie cards from the late 1980s and early 1990s, Series 1 packs and boxes offer a retro vibe. Inside are 399 base cards highlighting players from all 30 MLB teams along with inserts, parallels, and rookie cards of prospects. Notable rookies include Baseball America Minor League Player of the Year Spencer Torkelson and top pitching prospect Jarred Kelenic.

Series 1 is typically the debut set for many of the top rookies in baseball that season. The design and photography aims to capture the excitement of the upcoming season and is a favorite among collectors young and old. Other Topps flagship products include Series 2 and Update later in the season featuring new players and storylines as teams and rosters change throughout the year. Walmart remains fully stocked with 2021 Series 1 from Topps since its release in late February 2021.

In addition to Series 1, Walmart shoppers will find a variety of special promotional and collector-oriented Topps products as well. Tribute is a high-end set focusing on current stars with autographs and memorabilia cards inserted. Heritage honors the vintage baseball card designs of the past with modern players. Stadium Club features artistic photography in a style similar to Bowman Chrome. Opening Day and Home Run Kings celebrate iconic MLB moments. Allen & Ginter weaves in non-sports characters as well.

One of the most popular specialty sets at Walmart is 2021 Topps Chrome. Released in late May 2021, Chrome contains the same base cards as Series 1 but with a modern “chrome” coating on the front that adds pops of color and refractor-like shine to each image. Inserts and parallels in the set take on an even higher-end appeal with the unique refractive technology. Chrome cards tend to grade and preserve better long-term for serious collectors. As a result, Chrome is highly sought after at the retail level.

Walmart receives sizable shipments of Topps Chrome and usually fully stocks shelves the day of release. Avid collectors line up at opening or camp out overnight hoping to score coveted rookie cards like Torkelson or Kelenic from the coveted shiny technology. Even base Stars Like Yordan Alvarez, Fernando Tatis Jr. or Ronald Acuña Jr. have an allure and hold premium value in the Chrome format over the standard paper issue. For many passionate collectors, Walmart remains the best option locally to try and find Chrome treasures on release day without paying inflated secondary market prices later.

In addition to physical retail products, Topps and Walmart also release digital baseball card apps and platforms each year. Topps BUNT, Topps NOW and Topps Archives are free mobile companion experiences to the physical collecting hobby. Fans can build digital teams, collect unique commemorative cards of historic MLB moments daily in Topps NOW, and more. Occasionally Walmart will run exclusive digital card promotions and giveaways through these apps as well when purchasing physical boxes and packs in-store or online.

Overall Walmart provides a fantastic retail experience for collectors of all ages to find the latest and greatest Topps baseball card releases in 2021. Serious collectors seek out Walmart for the coveted Chrome release each year while casual fans enjoy picking up discounted blasters and packs of Series 1 to join in the excitement of the upcoming season. With Topps as the industry standard bearer and Walmart as a major retail partner, the retailer ensures collectors nationwide have access locally to the official MLB cardboard year after year. After over 80 years, Topps and Walmart continue propelling the baseball collecting hobby forward.

2021 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL BEST CARDS

The 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball set was released in October 2021 and brought shiny refractor parallels of Topps Base cards along with several highly sought after rookie cards. As with most years, the biggest draws of Topps Chrome were the rookie cards of some of the top young talents in Major League Baseball who had breakout seasons or were top prospects coming into 2021. Some of the true gems in the 2021 Topps Chrome set that brought big excitement were the prized rookies of playoff performers and future stars.

One of the true crown jewels of the 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball set was the prized rookie refractor parallel of Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Franco had one of the most hyped rookie seasons in recent memory in 2021 where he slashed .288/.347/.463 with 7 home runs and 39 RBI in 70 games. He established himself as one of the brightest young stars in baseball and a true franchise cornerstone for the Rays. Franco’s prized rookie refractor parallel quickly became one of the most sought after rookie cards in the entire 2021 trading card release season. Due to Franco’s breakout star power right out of the gate as one of the rare players to debut near the top of prospect rankings and then live up to the hype immediately, his Topps Chrome rookie refractor holds a premium and could become one of the defining rookie cards from the entire 2021 class in the long run.

Another tremendously hot rookie from the 2021 Topps Chrome set was Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Rodriguez made his MLB debut in 2021 and immediately demonstrated why he was rated as a top 5 overall prospect coming into the year by showing off jaw dropping athleticism, burgeoning all-around skills, and burgeoning star upside. In his partial rookie campaign with the Mariners spanning 87 games, Rodriguez slashed .284/.345/.480 with 14 home runs and 42 RBI while also flashing Gold Glove caliber defense and speed. His prized rookie refractor parallel from Topps Chrome gained significant buzz as collectors and investors took notice of his enormous breakout potential. Rodriguez’s blend of five-tool talents and advanced feel for the game at just 21 years old have many projecting him as a perennial All-Star and the future centerpiece of the Mariners. As such, his Topps Chrome rookie refractor carries immense long term significance and value as a defining rookie card for one of the game’s brightest young phenoms.

Another Houston Astros rookie who had a stellar first impression in 2021 and yielded one of the most desirable rookie cards from Topps Chrome was slugging first baseman Jeremy Peña. Pena was called up to replace injured All-Star shortstop Carlos Correa and shined as the everyday shortstop for the powerhouse Astros. In 99 games as a rookie, Peña slashed .289/.339/.501 with 22 extra-base hits and 48 RBI while playing stellar defense at shortstop. His efforts played a major role in the Astros winning the AL West and advancing to the ALCS.Due to Peña stepping in seamlessly for Correa and looking like a long term answer at shortstop for Houston, his rookie refractor parallel gained buzz. If Peña sustains his strong play for years to come helping the Astros remain perennial contenders, his Topps Chrome rookie card could prove to be quite valuable in the long run.

Another rookie who made hit MLB debut in 2021 and generated buzz for his Topps Chrome rookie refractor was Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz. Baz is considered one of the top pitching prospects in baseball and was a highly acclaimed member of the stacked Tampa Bay Rays prospect system. He made his first MLB appearance in 2021 following his delayed debut after undergoing Tommy John surgery. In limited action spanning just 4 starts totalling 15.2 innings, Baz posted a strong 2.03 ERA with 18 strikeouts. He showed the blazing fastball and wipeout slider combination that made him such a blue chip prospect. While Baz did not pitch enough in 2021 to receive an official rookie card, his first appearance in Topps Chrome definitely made collectors take notice. As Baz continues developing into a future staff ace for the Rays, his Topps Chrome rookie parallel could become an iconic card representing one of the game’s best pitching prospects entering his prime years.

One big league rookie who had a true breakout campaign in 2021 that made his Topps Chrome refractor parallel a hot ticket was Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Alejandro Kirk. The stocky slugger nicknamed “Pudge” emerged as an impact designated hitter and catcher in his first full MLB season with the Jays. In 108 games as a rookie, Kirk slashed .285/.349/.459 with 14 home runs and 59 RBI serving as a lineup anchor and feared run producer for Toronto throughout their playoff season. Due to Kirk’s surprising impact and ongoing importance to the rising Blue Jays, the 23 year old’s rookie refractor gained buzz and now represents one of the organization’s core players. If Kirk sustains his early success and remains a middle-of-the-order force for Toronto’s exciting young core for years, his Topps Chrome rookie card could become a definitive Toronto collector’s item.

While rookies and young prospects tend to drive collector and investor enthusiasm for Topps Chrome releases each year, the set also notoriously features prized refractors of established MLB stars. In 2021, one of the true centerpiece cards that became highly sought after was the San Diego Padres superstar shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr.’s prized refractor parallel. Tatis cemented himself as one of the faces of the league in 2021 by slashing .282/.364/.611 with a Major League leading 42 home runs in just 130 games to power the ascending Padres to within one win of the World Series. Due to Tatis’ age (just 22 for most of 2021), jaw dropping production, and highlight reel flair, collectors understood his Topps Chrome refractor as representing what could be one of the signature players and defining cards of his generation. As Tatis’ career progresses and he continues adding milestones, honors, and to his expanding highlight reel while leading San Diego deeper into October, his 2021 Topps Chrome refractor may achieve true icon status.

While players like Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez, Jeremy Peña, Shane Baz, Alejandro Kirk, and Fernando Tatis Jr. rose above as the true stars and headliners driving interest in Topps Chrome parallels from the 2021 season, the overall strength of rookie classes and young talents breaking out across the league speaks to the bright future of many organizations. The 2021 Topps Chrome Baseball set represented the emergence of scores of future impact players and franchises cornerstones, but the elite refractors of those who exceeded sky high expectations right away attained a special cache and long term significance. Those who invested in the prized rookie refractor parallels of wunderkinds like Franco, Rodriguez, and Peña securing their teams’ brightest futures stand to be rewarded as their careers progress, while Tatis’ refractor appears destined for all time classic status if he continues domination.

MOST VALUABLE 2021 MOSAIC BASEBALL CARDS

The 2021 Topps MLB flagship set Mosaic baseball card collection has become one of the most highly anticipated modern baseball card releases in recent memory. With its dazzling mosaic-style designs and short print runs of certain parallels and serial numbered cards, the 2021 Mosaic set offers collectors a chance to find cards that can hold immense value in today’s hustling sports card market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 2021 Mosaic baseball cards collectors are hunting.

Perhaps the single most coveted card in the entire 2021 Mosaic set is the prized 1/1 parallel of superstar Shohei Ohtani sporting his special dual pitcher/hitter designation. Only one of these unique Ohtani dual threat autos was produced, making it essentially the rarest Mosaic card to find. Given Ohtani’s status as one of the modern game’s true unicorns and his record-setting 2021 AL MVP campaign, virtually any autographed Ohtani card is destined for big money. Rumored auction prices for the coveted 1/1 have already soared north of $150,000, though none have changed hands publicly yet.

Beyond the Ohtani 1/1, many of the set’s biggest regular rookie stars also command top dollar in high-number parallels and memorabilia cards. Wander Franco, the uber-hyped top prospect who took the baseball world by storm after his call-up, has multiple parallels approaching or exceeding $10,000. His dual autographed ’21 Mosaic card sells in the $3,000-5,000 range and his triple logo man Mosaic patch auto has brought over $7,000 at auction. Fellow rookie phenom Jonathan India, the 2021 NL ROY, has an autographed India /2021 parallel that sold for around $4,000 and his dual patch /10 went for more than $2,000.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. seems to have finally lived up to the immense hype in his breakout 2021 campaign. Low-numbered Guerrero Jr. Mosaic parallels and autos in the single digits have exceeded $1,500 at auction. Even his base rookie materials hold tremendous value, with both his autos and memorabilia selling in the $400-600 range. Over in Boston, prized prospect Triston Casas exploded onto the scene with powerful big league cameos and his autographed and memorabilia Mosaics in the /10-/25 range have sold for $900-1,300.

Certain veteran stars whose modern careers have captured the imagination of collectors also shine brightly in the 2021 Mosaic release. Fernando Tatis Jr, arguably the face of baseball today, has an autographed Gold parallel /10 that sold for nearly $3,000. His dual logo patch auto /5 breached $2,000 as well. Juan Soto, still just 23 but already a 2-time batting champ, has low serial autos averaging $800-1,000 and /5 patch cards around $1,500. Even veterans like Albert Pujols, chasing career milestones in his final season, have low parallel autos bringing $500-800.

Perhaps the coolest aspect of Mosaic is its array of dazzling refractors, crystals, and prisms that shine and shimmer with color-shifting effects. Of these, green probably ranks as the most coveted color for high-end parallels. A Fernando Tatis Jr. Green refractor auto /5 from 2021 Mosaic fetched an incredible $6,000 at auction already. A Wander Franco Green Crystal parallel auto /10 also sailed past $4,000 while a red-hot Shohei Ohtani Green prism parallel /5 pushed $3,000. Even for stars of yesterday, premium Green parallels hold major desirability – a Ken Griffey Jr. crystal green auto /10 traded hands recently for over $2,000 despite the Hall of Famer having long retired.

With its breathtaking designs and promise of unparalleled hit cards, the 2021 Topps MLB Mosaic release has fast become a premier modern baseball card set. Thanks to passionate collectors chasing today’s brightest talents alongside baseball legends of past and present, the hobby’s rising tide means even common parallels can sell for hundreds while the set’s true 1/1 gems are in a stratosphere all their own. Whether hunting megastars like Ohtani and Soto or diving for diamonds in the rough, ripping wax in search of Mosaic magic is sure to keep the hobby exciting for years to come.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 2021

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century. With new cards being produced each year featuring current players and teams, the hobby of collecting baseball cards remains strong. Determining the value of any given baseball card can vary greatly depending on the player, year, condition, and many other factors. This baseball cards price guide for 2021 aims to provide collectors with a general overview of pricing trends for the most popular vintage and modern era cards.

One of the keys to determining a card’s value is the year it was printed. The earliest baseball cards from the late 1800s are undoubtedly the most valuable. An 1886 Old Judge tobacco card of Chicago White Stockings player Cap Anson in near mint condition could fetch over $1 million at auction. Other extremely rare and valuable pre-1900 cards include an 1889 Allen & Ginter N168 Old Judge card of Bug Holliday ($250,000+) and an 1890s Allen & Ginter cigarette card of Cy Young ($150,000+).

Moving into the early 20th century, the most iconic and valuable set is the T206 tobacco issue from 1909-1911. Highlights of this set in gem mint condition include a Honus Wagner ($500,000+), Eddie Plank ($75,000+), and Walter Johnson ($50,000+). The next most valuable early 20th century issues are the 1913 E121-1 strip cards and 1914 Cracker Jack issues. Key rookies from these sets like a Babe Ruth or Lou Gehrig can reach $100,000 in top grades.

The golden age of baseball cards spans from the late 1930s through the 1950s. The most coveted sets from this era are the 1933 Goudey, 1952 Topps, and 1956 Topps issues. Iconic rookies like a 1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig or 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle can sell for over $100,000 in pristine condition. High-grade examples of star players from this time period generally range between $1,000-$10,000 depending on the player and set.

Into the modern era of the 1960s-1980s, the flagship Topps issues dominated the market. Highlights include the 1968 Topps complete set ($10,000+), 1975 Topps rookie cards of Fred Lynn and George Brett ($1,000+), and the iconic 1952 Topps rookie of Mantle ($50,000+). Complete sets from the 1970s-1980s in near mint condition are generally worth $500-$3,000. Key rookie cards can reach $5,000-$10,000 for elite players.

The junk wax era of the late 1980s through the 1990s saw an overproduction of cards that has led to lower values today. Some stars and rookies still hold value. Examples include the 1987 Topps Mark McGwire rookie ($150+), 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie ($75+), and 1991 Upper Deck Alex Rodriguez rookie ($100+). Complete sets are worth $50-$150 depending on year and condition.

Modern era cards from the 2000s to present have found renewed interest from collectors. Rookie cards of current superstars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts and others command higher prices. A 2009 Topps Trout rookie averages $100+ raw, while a 2012 Bowman Chrome Harper sells for $500+. Complete flagship sets are $20-50, while high-value parallels and autographs can reach thousands.

Condition is critical to determining value across all eras. Near mint (NM) or mint (MT) grades fetch a significant premium over heavily played (HP) or poor condition. Professional grading from services like PSA and BGS adds further value, especially for high-dollar vintage cards. Factors like autographs, memorabilia cards, serial numbers and parallels also impact modern card values.

The baseball card market remains strong. Vintage gems will continue appreciating over time based on rarity and condition. Popular modern stars are establishing their rookie cards as future classics. For collectors, it’s important to understand all the variables that influence pricing when buying, selling or collecting cards from any era. With diligent research, the hobby can prove rewarding both financially and as a fun connection to baseball’s rich history.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2021 UPDATE SERIES

The 2021 Topps baseball card update series is one of the most anticipated releases each year for collectors and fans. The update series is released by Topps midway through the MLB season and features rookie cards, autographs, and refractors of players from the current year. It provides a refresh to the base card sets released at the beginning of the season by including stats and performances from the first half of the season.

Some key things to know about the 2021 Topps baseball update series:

Release Date: The 2021 edition was released on August 18, 2021 in retail boxes, packs, and hyped hobby boxes. It followed the 2021 Topps Series 1 release from earlier in the year.

Design: The design continues Topps’ modern aesthetic with colorful borders and team logos prominently displayed on the front. Photos are crisp and clear. The back provides stats along with tidbits about the players. Parallels have reflective foil elements added.

Rookie Cards: Several top rookies from 2021 received their official rookie cards in the update, including Randy Arozarena, Jonathan India, Akil Baddoo, Trevor Rogers, and Shane McClanahan. These are some of the most desired rookie cards to collect from the release.

Prospects: While not true rookie cards, the update also features first Topps cards of top prospects like Jarred Kelenic, Spencer Torkelson, Julio Rodriguez, and Bobby Witt Jr as they near the majors. These serve as an early peek at future star talents.

Autographed Cards: The update featured several autograph parallels at different rarity levels. Some of the biggest names to pull include Fernando Tatis Jr., Mookie Betts, Fernando Tatis Jr., Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. These 1/1 autographs could fetch thousands on the resale market.

Refractors: Popular refractors inserts consisting of players photographed with animated color effects were spread throughout packs and boxes. The most exciting are “rainbow foil” refractors that change colors as they catch the light. Superstar refractors are highly collectible.

Short Prints: Topps is known for including unannounced short print cards mixed into packs without a numbered identifier. Discovering a short print adds intrigue and value. The 2021 update contained short prints of Acuña Jr., Brandon Crawford, and others.

Variations: Topps introduced “negative/lineup” variations of select base cards. These featured players photographed from behind or partially obscured behind their teammates. Collectors chased these as they were quite scarce.

Memorabilia Cards: Dual and triple memorabilia cards contained game-worn materials like jersey swatches, batting gloves, and caps. Three-relic versions of hot rookies were especially exciting pulls.

Parallels: Numerous parallel inserts increased the challenge of completing rainbow sets for players. Included were Gold Foil (/2021), Silver Foil (/75), Black Foil (/50), Printing Plates (1/1), and Pink Refractor parallel (/2021) sets amongst others.

Upon release, the 2021 Topps update sold out quickly from major retailers as demand far outpaced supply. On the resale market, individual boxes sell for over $100, sometimes reaching $150-200 depending on the condition and availability. Hobby boxes intended for breakers routinely fetch $500-1000 due to pack value.

Some of the biggest hits from the release so far include a 1/1 Fernando Tatis Jr. Printing Plate that auctioned for over $15,000, and a Nolan Arenado autograph patch card that sold for nearly $5000. Rays prospect Randy Arozarena’s autograph has gained significant value as his star has risen. Rookie cards of emerging young talents Cronenworth, India, Rogers, and others also jumped in secondary pricing.

Now halfway through its cycle on the shelves, the 2021 Topps update series continues to be a rewarding and intriguing release for collectors. With its mix of established stars, rookies, and parallels, it offers something for every type of collector and creates buzz throughout the entire baseball card community. As players’ seasons progress and their careers develop, cards from this set will hold value and memories for years to come. The update series is undoubtedly a staple and high point of each new Topps baseball product line.