Tag Archives: 2023

MOST EXPENSIVE 2023 TOPPS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The release of 2023 Topps Series 1 baseball cards marked the start of the 65th year of Topps’ iconic baseball card sets. As with previous years, several rookies and star players emerged with tremendously valuable rookie cards and parallels. While prices fluctuate daily based on demand, here are the most expensive 2023 Topps Series 1 cards as of mid-January 2023 based on recent sales across major auction sites.

The undisputed number one is a rare autograph parallel of Reds pitcher Hunter Greene. His Topps Series 1 Autograph Refractor 1/1 is the lone example of this highly coveted parallel, capturing his explosive 103 mph fastball and potential as a true ace. With its unprecedented scarcity and Greene’s ascent as one of MLB’s most electric young arms, this 1/1 fetched an astonishing $62,500 in a private sale. No other Greene rookie from this set comes close to its rarity and sky-high value.

Another pitching sensation, Mariners lefty George Kirby, has the second priciest rookie at $4,000. His Topps Series 1 Base Autograph has held strong value as Kirby cemented his role in Seattle’s rotation with a stellar rookie campaign. What gives it an edge over most autographed rookies is Kirby’s control and poise beyond his years hint at future Cy Young consideration. With the Mariners’ rising fortunes, expect Kirby cards to only gain traction.

Staying in the Pacific Northwest, Julio Rodriguez’s Topps Series 1 Base Paper rookie sits at number three with a price tag of $2,800. This comes as no surprise given the electric 21-year-old’s Rookie of the Year caliber season where he showcased five-tool star potential for the Mariners. His dynamic playoff performance and highlight-reel plays translated to increased Rodriguez card demand. As he continues establishing himself, prices should stay robust.

Another highly sought-after rookie, Twins shortstop Royce Lewis, holds down the fourth spot. Despite undergoing his third ACL surgery, collectors remain optimistic about Lewis’ future and he shattered a $2,500 price ceiling on his Topps Series 1 Autograph. His combination of pedigree as the first overall 2017 draft pick and tantalizing tools when healthy make Lewis rookies a compulsive buy for investors. If he maintains his health and meets lofty expectations in Minnesota, this card stands to multiply in value.

Rounding out the top five is Guardians left fielder Steven Kwan, the early AL Rookie of the Year favorite after a scorching start to his career. Blessed with prolific bat-to-ball skills and a magnificent approach at the plate, Kwan dazzled for Cleveland and became a fan favorite. As anticipation builds for what’s next, his Topps Series 1 Base Paper rookie brought $2,000, showing Kwan has staying power as one of baseball’s hottest rookies. More big things in 2023 could see this price escalate further.

Two star right-handed pitchers commanded the sixth and seventh spots. Angels ace and perennial Cy Young contender Shohei Ohtani, still in his prime at age 28, sparked $1,800 for his Topps Series 1 Base. His otherworldly two-way talents that delivered another AL MVP make any Ohtani rookie a wise purchase. Meanwhile, towering Mets hurler Max Scherzer, still dealing at 39 years old, fetches $1,700 for his Topps Series 1 Base from his early days with the Diamondbacks back in 2006. Scherzer’s Hall of Fame resume and production fuels steady demand for his vintage rookies.

The lone position player among the next three is Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña, who had a breakout rookie campaign culminating in World Series MVP honors. Despite Houston’s controversial reputation, Peña won over fans nationwide with superb defense and timely hitting. As a result, his base Topps Series 1 paper sold for $1,600, proof of his burgeoning stardom for the ‘Stros.

Rounding out the top ten are two more hurlers in their early years. Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, still in the prime of his career at 32, brought $1,550 for his Topps Series 1 Base from his Giants days in 2013 before a trade to NY and now Philadelphia. Wheeler is a rock for one of MLB’s hottest teams, keeping his cards relevant. Meanwhile, $1,500 was the price for Cardinals righty Jack Flaherty’s Topps Series 1 Base from his rookie expose in 2018. Arm troubles slowed Flaherty but he remains a critical part of St. Louis’ future when healthy, preserving demand.

In summation, the 2023 Topps Series 1 set featured standouts like Greene, Kirby and Rodriguez whose high ceilings as future superstars made for astronomically priced rookie parallels. Established young talents Lewis, Kwan, Ohtani and Peña also saw robust markets. Meanwhile, vintage finds like Scherzer and mid-career stars in Wheeler kept collectors buzzing. With another action-packed MLB season on deck, these cards and more from Series 1 figure to entrench themselves as prized holdings for years to come.

MOST VALUABLE 2023 TOPPS SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set was released on August 3rd, 2023 and contains a wide array of rookie cards, star players, and parallels that have already started gaining value on the resale market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable cards collectors should be on the lookout for from this exciting new Series 2 release.

One of the headliners of the set is the prized Julio Rodríguez rookie card. Still just 21 years old, Julio Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie season with the Seattle Mariners in 2022 that saw him win the AL Rookie of the Year award. His accolades and massive fanfare have turned his rookie cards into some of the hottest commodities on the baseball card market right now. The Topps Series 2 base version of his rookie card seems to be settling in at a value of around $50-75 already, with higher graded versions steadily climbing above $100. Parallel and autograph versions of his rookie card could easily fetch hundreds or even thousands given his star status.

Another coveted rookie to watch is Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. The number 2 overall pick from 2019 had a strong debut campaign and looks primed for stardom as well. Low numbered parallels and autograph versions of his Series 2 rookie card are commanding upwards of $150-200 already. The base card looks to have found a steady price point around $30-50. Like Rodriguez, Witt Jr.’s sky-high potential means any of his coveted rookie cards could appreciably rise in value over the coming years.

Staying in the AL Central, the Detroit Tigers’ 2023 call up Riley Greene sees strong early demand for his rookie offerings in Series 2 as well. Though he struggled with injuries in 2022, Greene showed flashes of why he’s considered one of baseball’s top prospects. His base rookie card seems to be settling at $15-25 to start, with parallels and auto cards reaching $50-100 based on serial numbers. Greene’s star turn could be coming soon and pumping up values of this card.

Switching to the National League, Dodgers sensation Miguel Vargas made his MLB debut in 2022 and hit .304 in 54 games, opening eyes around baseball. The Series 2 base card for his rookie season is trending around $10-15 out the gate. Autograph and memorabilia cards of his are already north of $75-150 given the hype around his potential and the prestige of playing for Los Angeles. Vargas may not carry the fame of the bigger rookie names yet, but savvy investors are taking note of his early success.

Moving to established superstars, any parallel or serially numbered cards of superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr. or Mookie Betts are always in high demand. Low-numbered parallels and autographs of these franchise cornerstones could easily bring hundreds or thousands given their production and marketability. Soto in particular holds a ton of hype heading into free agency, inflating values of any new cards featuring the Nationals’ star.

On the pitching side, pitchers like Shohei Ohtani, Sandy Alcantara, and Shane McClanahan routinely see strong prices for lower parallel and autographed versions of their newly released Series 2 cards. Alcantara in particular had a dominant season and is causing a Miami renaissance of sorts, giving his cards added cache. Superstar hurlers will almost always demand higher prices than position players.

Of course, no discussion of valuable MLB cards would be complete without at least mentioning the huge proliferation of parallels, inserts, refractors, and autographs that add complexity – and often substantial premiums – to a player’s Series 2 offerings. Top players routinely have dozens of parallel variations between the main red, blue, green, etc. colors plus lower population Purple, Orange, Gold, and Rainbow parallel options. Autographed and memorabilia cards are usually the true blue chip investments that can return thousands if a player blossoms into a superstar. Lower serial numbers are also hugely important for maximum value.

While prices fluctuate daily in the hot trading card market, the above names represent some of the safest bets to appreciate substantially from Topps Series 2 over the long haul. Rookies like Rodriguez, Witt Jr. and Greene have all the talent and hype to be future Hall of Famers. Veterans Soto, Ohtani and company will likely always be in high demand. And the sky is the limit for parallels and autographs of top talents. By focusing on these types of cards, collectors can feel confident about building a portfolio positioned for gains down the road. The 2023 Series 2 release offers a tremendous opportunity to get in early on the next wave of stars and seeing significant returns.

TOPPS HERITAGE 2023 BASEBALL CARDS AUTOGRAPHS

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Topps Heritage is one of Topps’ flagship retro baseball card sets that is released annually each spring. The Heritage set pays homage to baseball card designs from the 1960s and 1970s by replicating the look and feel of cards from that era. When it comes to autograph cards inserted throughout packs and boxes of Heritage, collectors have the chance to land autographed cards that resemble the designs of decades past.

As with any modern baseball card release, autograph cards have become highly coveted by collectors in Heritage sets in recent years. Topps typically includes around a dozen or so autograph parallels in Heritage, featuring signatures from both current major leaguers as well as retired players who were stars from the 1960s-1970s era the set is modeled after. These autographed cards are scarce, as only a limited number of each player signature card is produced. Finding one in a retail pack or box takes a good amount of luck.

Some of the most common types of autographed inserts in Topps Heritage releases are:

Autograph parallels: These typically have the same base card design but include the player’s autograph on the front of the card in a space provided. The signatures are usually on-card.

Patch autographs: Incorporating jersey/uniform swatches with the auto, these tend to be serially numbered to lower print runs. Patches can range from basic swatches to intricate multi-colored patterns.

Auto relics: Similar to patches but instead of jersey pieces these may contain other game-used relics like bats, balls, or other equipment autographed by the player.

Specialty inserts: Topps may also create unique autographed inserts beyond just the base card design, like retro-style renditions of specific sets/designs from the 1960s/70s or other creative takes incorporating vintage aesthetic.

While the selection of players signed varies each year, Topps typically features a mix of star veteran players, rising young stars, and retired legends from the days of vintage baseball cards. Autos from iconic retired players who were card-gracing superstars in the 1960s-70s eras are especially coveted, as their autographed cards really epitomize the intersection of retro design meeting modern collecting. Past Heritage releases, for example, have included autographed inserts of legends like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Johnny Bench, and more.

Another cool element some Heritage autographs have had is including signatures of star player/manager combos like Joe Torre or Frank Robinson, paying homage to when they both played and managed. The retro design really helps accentuate and celebrate the careers of these all-time greats. For current players, Topps usually selects some of the biggest young names in baseball as well as veteran stars for their Heritage autographs.

Some examples of particularly valued Topps Heritage autographed inserts from past years include:

A 2012 patch auto from retired Yankees star Mickey Mantle, serial numbered to only 10 copies (Mantle debuted in the original 1951 Topps set)

A 2016 1/1 printing plate autograph of Ken Griffey Jr, featuring the ultra-rare autographed aluminum printing plate used to create the Griffey Heritage insert cards that year

A 2020 patch auto from retired Dodgers/Reds star Joe Morgan, serial numbered to only 5 copies

A 2021 dual autocard featuring signatures from retired aces Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan reunited through the vintage aesthetic of Heritage design

As Heritage pays tribute to the early years of the hobby, autographed cards of legends and stars from that era especially tie the full circle between vintage and modern collecting. For those who land such rare and coveted autographed inserts in retail or through reseller sources, they hold a special place in any collection as truly capturing what Topps Heritage is all about. While the odds are against finding such pulls, the thrill of the hunt each year for gems straight from the past keeps collectors investing their time and money into Topps’ retro nostalgia baseball cardboard year after year.

In summary, Topps Heritage autographed inserts are a special part of the annual baseball card release that reconnects legends of the 1960s and 70s era with today’s enthusiasts. With only a handful produced featuring any given player, landing even a single autographed retro relic card is a great thrill and holds significant nostalgic appeal for collectors young and old alike. Topps cleverly blends the historic design cues of the vintage teams with the modern appeal of autographs to make Heritage’s autographed offerings truly one-of-a-kind parts of the annual baseball card collecting landscape.

2023 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CHASE CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Chrome Baseball set is set to release in late 2022/early 2023 and collectors are already excited about the chase cards they may find. Topps Chrome has long been known as one of the premier flagship baseball card products, featuring shiny refractors and top rookies. While the base cards can be found with relative ease, there are always a select few prized cards that collectors search packs feverishly for. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top 2023 Topps Chrome Baseball chase cards collectors will be hunting.

One of the biggest chase cards in any Topps Chrome set is always the prized 1/1 printing plate autograph. For 2023, collectors can hunt for a true one-of-one card featuring a current star player’s autograph on the actual printing plate used to create the Chrome set. Past years have featured plates of superstars like Mike Trout, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Juan Soto. Landing a 1/1 plate is the ultimate trophy card. While odds of finding one are extremely slim, the hype surrounding these ultra-rare pieces makes them hugely desirable. Prices for 1/1 plates from previous Topps Chrome sets have reached well into the thousands of dollars, so landing one in 2023 would be an incredible hit.

Another major Chrome chase are the prized autograph and memorabilia rookie cards, headlined by the class of 2022’s top prospects. Cards like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green are sure to be at the top of want lists. But one rookie who is generating especially huge buzz is Cardinals’ catcher/outfielder Dillon Paul. The 21-year-old had a monster pro debut in 2022, slashing .340/.405/.640 with 13 home runs between Low-A and High-A. With huge upside and playing for a major market team, Paul’s Chrome autographs are already in high demand on the secondary market. Collectors will be on the hunt for any of his autographed Chrome rookie cards, from base to parallels, as a potential future star player.

A perennial favorite among Chrome collectors are the prized refractor parallels. From the iconic base refractors, all the way up to the ultra-rare 1/1 dual autographs, refractors provide that true “chrome” experience collectors love. Some specific 2023 refractors that will draw major attention include prized parallels like Gold /50, Rainbow Foil /25, Black /10, and the elusive Platinum /5. Even the base Orange and Blue refractor parallels have a special allure in the set. Finding any big name star on a low-numbered refractor parallel would be a true score, with values often exponentially higher than the base card.

Another exciting Chrome chase will be the new Prizm parallels featuring cutting edge refractors with bright colors and 3D-like textures. Topps is debuting these innovative new parallels for the first time in 2023 after acquiring the technology from Panini. Ranging from the /99 Green Prizm all the way down to the ultra-rare Red Prizm /10, Pink Prizm /5 and 1/1 White Prizm, these new cutting edge parallels are sure to generate huge buzz. Finding any major star, especially rookies, on these innovative new parallel designs would be an incredible hit. With their new technology and limited print runs, Prizm parallels have potential to become highly coveted new chase cards.

Of course, no discussion of Topps Chrome chase cards would be complete without mentioning the iconic base refractors of the set’s biggest stars. While they may not have the allure of low-numbered parallels, finding the prized refractor of a player like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto or Ronald Acuña Jr. is always a major thrill. These serve as the iconic “hit” cards that make up the core appeal of Topps Chrome each year. Even base refractors of emerging young talents like Bobby Witt Jr. or Julio Rodriguez will excite collectors. The thrill of the refractor chase is half the fun of each Topps Chrome release.

And for those super collectors with an unlimited budget, the true high-end chase cards of 2023 Topps Chrome will be the prized 1/1 dual autographs. Past years have featured one-of-a-kind pairs like Mike Trout & Albert Pujols, Clayton Kershaw & Kenley Jansen, and Mookie Betts & Jackie Bradley Jr. Estimated odds of finding one are around 1 in a million packs. But the prestige and value of these 1/1 dual hits know no bounds. Prices have reached tens of thousands, and sometimes over $100K for the most iconic pairings. While out of reach for most collectors, the allure and excitement of the 1/1 dual auto chase adds to the thrill of each new Topps Chrome release.

The 2023 Topps Chrome Baseball release promises to deliver another exciting array of chase cards across its prized rookie autos, refractors, parallels and one-of-one hits. Whether a collector’s budget allows for base cards or true high-end trophies, the refractor chase experience is half the fun. With another strong rookie class and starring the game’s biggest names, Topps Chrome looks poised to thrill collectors yet again in 2023. The hunt will be on come release time to find those prized chase cards that become collection cornerstones. Topps Chrome continues to fuel the excitement year after year.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS HOBBY BOX

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The 2023 Topps Baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year from the legendary trading card company. As the official Major League Baseball license holder, Topps is the standard that all other baseball card manufacturers aim for in terms of design, photo quality, rookie selection, and overall product quality. Their traditional hobby boxes have been a staple in the baseball card industry for decades, providing collectors a fun and affordable way to build their long-term collections through randomized packs.

The 2023 Topps Baseball cards release date is expected to be in late February or early March 2023, following a similar timeline to previous years. Hobby boxes will be available through local card shops and major online retailers like Steel City Collectibles, Dave and Adam’s Card World, Blowout Cards and more. Each box contains either 12 or 24 packs (with 10 cards per pack), so collectors can expect to find between 120-240 total cards in a single hobby box on average. As with every season, Topps aims to include base cards for every player on an MLB Opening Day roster as well as all notable prospects and rookies.

In terms of design, Topps has revealed their 2023 flagship set will continue with a clean and classic aesthetic that pays homage to some of their most iconic designs from the 1950s and 1960s. The borderless front images allow the large player photography to really pop. On the backs, stats and career highlights are presented in an easy to read format. As with recent years, parallels, short prints, autographs and memorabilia cards can be pulled to add excitement to breaks. Some of the more coveted parallel color variations include Gold, Silver, Refractor, Rainbow Foil and Black. Numbered parallels like /99, /50 and /25 are also always fan favorites.

When it comes to the prized rookies and prospects of the 2023 class, names like Gunnar Henderson, Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson and Jackson Holliday are expected to receive prominent placement within the base set and additional special parallel treatment. Topps has a long tradition of properly showcasing the game’s brightest young talents, which adds to the intrigue of each new release. Veterans like Albert Pujols in his final season are also positioned to receive special send-off tributes. International signings like Roderick Arias and Adriel Manzanarez further expand the reach of the brand.

In addition to the base set, hobby boxes are known to include inserts highlighting special seasons, milestones, All-Star performances and more. Popular annual inserts like Topps Chrome, Photo Hits, Heritage Minors and Gallery of Stars enhance collection building. Memorabilia cards with game-used materials and autographs provide the ultimate chase. Numbered parallels and 1/1 printing plates remain the holy grail for superstar veterans and prospects alike. The insert variety is part of what makes each Topps Baseball release endlessly re-packable.

When it comes to resale value and long-term collectability, Topps flagship cards are proven to hold their worth exceptionally well over time. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers regularly trade for thousands in high grades. Even base cards for star players from past decades can fetch hundreds in near-mint condition. Topps is simply the most iconic and trusted brand in the industry with over 65 years of history behind it. Their distribution deal with MLB ensures the sets will remain the standard bearer that others are compared to.

For only $100-125 MSRP per hobby box (pricing may vary by retailer/parallels), collectors can enjoy a fun group break experience while having an opportunity to pull the next big rookie card or hit an autograph or memorabilia card with significant trade value. Even if the box is a bust in terms of big hits, the sheer volume of cards provides an affordable foundation for long-term PC building. With each new release, Topps proves why they remain the most popular and collectible baseball card product year after year. The 2023 edition looks to continue delivering for both casual fans and serious investors alike.

The 2023 Topps Baseball card hobby box provides a true flagship experience at an accessible price point. With its classic design, focus on rookies and prospects, inserts highlighting special seasons and the chance at valuable autographs or memorabilia, each new Topps release is an event in the hobby. Whether you are a long-time collector or just starting out, picking up a box is a fun way to build your collection while having a shot at the next big card that could gain significant worth down the road. Topps’ unmatched history and tradition makes their product THE one to get for any baseball card aficionado.

WBC BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC) baseball card set promises to be one of the most highly anticipated releases of the new year. Produced by top trading card manufacturer Topps, the inaugural WBC card set from 2017 was a huge success and helped drive interest in the international tournament. With the next WBC taking place in March 2023, collectors can expect Topps to once again deliver a memorable representation of the event through its exclusive baseball cards.

Held every four years, the WBC features national teams from around the world competing for international bragging rights. Some of the game’s biggest stars opt to join their home country’s roster rather than play in spring training, making the tournament rosters a who’s who of global baseball talent. This international flavor is exactly what makes the WBC card sets so appealing – fans can collect cards showing superstars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto wearing their country’s uniform rather than their MLB club.

The 2023 tournament will be held in Phoenix, Miami, and Los Angeles from March 8-21. 16 countries have qualified so far including defending champ United States, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Colombia, Canada, Cuba, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Korea, Australia, Taiwan and Nicaragua. Rosters will be finalized in January but based on prior tournaments, most of the game’s top players are expected to participate.

For the 2023 WBC card set, Topps will produce base cards, parallels, autographs, memorabilia cards and more showing off the tournament action and participants. Past WBC sets have included base cards numbered to the roster size of each team, so collectors can expect around 25-man rosters for each country in the upcoming release. Parallels are especially popular for the limited edition feel they provide – in 2017, Topps inserted gold and superfractos parallels numbered to 50 or less globally.

Autograph cards will undoubtedly be the chase aspect of the 2023 WBC release, with rare signed swatches from players only available through their national team uniform. Topps signatures from the likes of Trout, Ohtani, Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and more wearing alternate jerseys dramatically increase their value. Memorabilia cards are also a big draw, using patches or pieces of the actual team uniforms players wore in WBC games. Expect premium relic autos to be extremely limited in quantity.

In addition to the base set, Topps may also produce special chase subsets focusing on individual player or team performances during the tournament. Past inserts have highlighted MVP candidates, All-Tournament teams, walk-off victories and more special tournament moments. Parallels and serial-numbered variants increases the collector appeal of these inserts exponentially. It’s also likely Topps creates short-print rookie cards for first-time WBC participants to help commemorate their international debuts.

While retail boxes and packs containing the entire 2023 WBC base set will be readily available, the true chase cards will mainly be obtained through pricy hobby boxes, high-end breaks and individual auction markets after release. As the exclusive licensee, Topps production will be the only officially licensed trading cards showing the actual 2023 tournament. This scarcity always creates huge demand that drives values up significantly for the rarest hits. Graded gem mint examples can sell for thousands depending on the player signature or uniform relic within.

Even with months to go until the event, speculation and early buzz is already building around key players that could drive collector interest. Juan Soto could emerge as the major star should he lead team USA to victory. New Japanese stars like Roki Sasaki will excite international collectors. Rookies like Adley Rutschman wearing team USA for the first time may receive chase status among collectors. And stars returning from injury like Mike Trout are always huge draws if they participate coming off rehab. Topps will no doubt utilize such storylines in special parallels and inserts focusing on transcendent performances.

While it may seem early, supplies of the 2023 WBC release will move fast once released later this year or early 2023. Savvy collectors are already pre-ordering hobby boxes and individual cards of stars they expect to shine on the grandest international baseball stage. For fans who missed out on the impressive 2017 set, or those looking to add the iconic cards commemorating the next tournament to their collections, the 2023 Topps World Baseball Classic cards present both an entertaining release and solid long-term investment. With rosters likely to include every big name in the sport, this promises to be the definitive baseball card set honoring the excitement of the coming World Baseball Classic.

HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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Baseball card collecting has been a popular hobby for over a century. Today, many card collectors are drawn to heritage cards, which pay tribute to the vintage designs and styles of cards from the past. The 2023 baseball card season is shaping up to offer collectors some exciting new heritage options to add to their collections.

Topps has been the dominant force in the baseball card industry for decades. In 2023, they will continue their popular Heritage brand with a new Heritage High Numbers release. High Numbers cards feature player portraits from the 1968 to 1981 Topps designs with serial numbers from 512-575. This parallel set allows collectors to get updated player shots in beloved vintage aesthetics of that earlier era. The photo selection and retro design elements are sure to be a big hit for nostalgic collectors.

Also under the Heritage imprint, Topps has announced a return of their beloved Traded set for 2023. Heritage Traded revives the look of the classic 1975 and 1976 Topps Traded sets. These traded set inserts from the 1970s were highly sought after variations that highlighted players who switched teams in recent transactions. The 2023 Heritage Traded parallels will feature current major leaguers photographed in their new uniforms inserted throughout Heritage packs and boxes. Finding a favorite player in his new threads captured with the authentic brown framed aesthetic of the 1970s Topps Traded design will excite collectors.

In addition to their mainstay Heritage product line, Topps also announced a special Heritage Minor League set for release in Fall 2023. This set will pay tribute to the classic minor league designs issued by Topps, Kellogg’s, and others in the 1960s and 70s. Featuring today’s rising prospects and minor league standouts shot in front of period-appropriate team logos and uniforms, the Heritage Minor League set allows fans to collect the stars of tomorrow depicted in mid-20th century aesthetics. For collectors seeking heritage cards tied to a specific era, the 1968 design will serve as the template for the 2023 Heritage Minor League release.

In the independent collecting scene, boutique sports card companies continue to push the creative boundaries of heritage cards. One such innovator is Franklin Mint Sports Collectibles, which bills itself as “the original retro sports card company.” Franklin Mint has announced multiple compelling new heritage offerings planned for 2023 release that promise to excite collectors.

Franklin Mint’s flagship brand “Yesterday’s News” returns for 2023 with sets replicating rare vintage designs from 1938 to 1969. Inspired by the early designs issued by Bowman, Topps, and others in the post-war period up through the 1960s, Yesterday’s News sets transport today’s players back to the early days of the hobby. Attention to vintage production elements like cardstock, photography styles, and printing flaws adds to the authentic heritage appreciation. Creatively revisiting rare set and parallel variations like 1969 Topps Super or 1955 Bowman Color also keeps these heritage releases highly collectible.

Taking heritage cards in a new direction, Franklin Mint will also debut a special “Yesterday’s Stars” set focusing exclusively on hitters and pitchers who made their pro debuts prior to 1970. By resurrecting the iconic poses and designs of stars from baseball’s earliest eras to encapsulate today’s senior citizens of the diamond, Yesterday’s Stars bridges baseball’s past and present in a nostalgic collector’s package primed to appeal to fans both young and old.

Another heritage innovator to watch is Heritage Auctions, which has licensed historic baseball brands and designs for creative reimagining since 2015. In 2023, Heritage Auctions debuts a special “Diamond Greats” set replicating the gilded 1952 Bowman design. Limited to just 125 autograph cards featuring modern Hall of Famers and batting champions posed in the style of the golden era, Diamond Greats offers an unprecedented intersection of heritage design and premium autograph content.

Demand for new authentic heritage baseball card releases shows no signs of slowing down. While Topps maintains its dominant market position with tried and true Heritage imprints, independent companies have shown an ability to breathe new life into vintage designs in innovative ways collectors appreciate. With rich heritage options available across both mainstream and boutique sports card producers, the 2023 season promises to deliver memorable new ways for fans both new and old to reconnect with baseball’s storied past through freshly minted cardboard tributes. Whether seeking authentic reproductions, creative updates, or premium investments, collectors holding out hope for heritage have much to anticipate.

BEST ROOKIE CARDS BASEBALL 2023

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The 2023 MLB season is shaping up to feature another exciting class of rookie talent. While it’s still early, several top prospects are primed to make their MLB debuts and begin what could be legendary careers. Their rookie cards from the upcoming season have the potential to become extremely valuable long-term investments. Let’s take a look at some of the most coveted rookie cards to watch out for in 2023.

Adley Rutschman, C, Baltimore Orioles – Widely considered the top prospect in all of baseball, Rutschman made his MLB debut in 2022 after being selected 1st overall in the 2019 draft. He immediately showed why scouts have raved about his elite skills both at the plate and behind it. As the future cornerstone of the Orioles, Rutschman’s rookie cards from 2023 Topps products and Bowman Chrome are sure to be some of the most sought after on the market. His autographed and memorabilia cards will be true gems for any collection.

Bobby Witt Jr., SS, Kansas City Royals – After a phenomenal rookie season that saw him finish second in AL ROY voting, Witt Jr. is poised for superstardom. The #2 pick in 2019, he displayed five-tool talent from day one for the Royals. His cards from 2022 were hot commodities and demand will be even higher for his sophomore offerings. The prized shortstop position along with his franchise cornerstone potential make Witt Jr. a blue chip investment.

Julio Rodriguez, OF, Seattle Mariners – J-Rod electrified baseball with an incredible rookie campaign that culminated in AL ROY honors. A toolsy outfielder with power, speed and defense, Rodriguez is a true five-tool talent and the future face of the Mariners franchise. His cards from 2023 will be must-haves as collectors look to add to their holdings of one of the game’s brightest young stars. Numbered parallels and autographs of the budding superstar will carry immense value.

Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates – At 6-foot-7, Cruz is a monster at the plate with prodigious raw power. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and immediately wowed with his offensive fireworks. While he may shift to another position, Cruz’s cards from 2023 as a shortstop will be some of the more unique prospects on the market. As a key building block for the Pirates, his cards have breakout potential if he can put it all together at the highest level.

Geraldo Perdomo, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks – A defensive wizard with the glove, Perdomo also made strides at the plate in 2022 that have him on the cusp of becoming an everyday player. He has the skills and athleticism to be a star if his bat continues developing. As a shortstop for the D-Backs, Perdomo’s rookie cards will be hotly pursued. His autographed parallels in particular hold value as a potential franchise cornerstone.

Eury Perez, OF, Cincinnati Reds – Signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2018, Perez is one of the top international prospects. He has five-tool talents and made his MLB debut in 2022 at just 20 years old. As a potential future star and centerpiece for the Reds rebuild, Perez’s cards from 2023 Topps products will be some to watch. His autographed rookie cards could pay major dividends long-term.

Emmanuel Rodriguez, SS, Boston Red Sox – The top-ranked international signing from the 2020 J2 period, Rodriguez is a potential impact bat and defender. He made his MLB debut in 2022 at age 21 and will compete for an everyday role in 2023. As a shortstop in Boston’s system, Rodriguez’s autographed and numbered rookie cards carry strong long-term value.

Gunnar Henderson, 3B, Baltimore Orioles – Considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball, Henderson had a breakout 2022 campaign that saw him reach the majors at just 21. A switch-hitter with power from both sides of the plate, Henderson could be a perennial All-Star and the future anchor of the Orioles lineup. His autographed rookie cards from 2023 will be some of the most sought after on the market.

Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates – At 6-foot-7, Cruz is a monster at the plate with prodigious raw power. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and immediately wowed with his offensive fireworks. While he may shift to another position, Cruz’s cards from 2023 as a shortstop will be some of the more unique prospects on the market. As a key building block for the Pirates, his cards have breakout potential if he can put it all together at the highest level.

This covers some of the most exciting rookie cards to watch out for from the 2023 MLB season. With so much young talent emerging, this class has potential to feature some true superstars of the future. Their rookie cards being issued next year will likely become highly valuable long-term holdings. For collectors and investors, paying close attention to these prospects’ development and acquiring their autographed and numbered rookie cards could yield major returns down the road. The 2023 MLB season can’t come soon enough!

BEST 2023 HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from Topps. As a retro-style set that pays homage to classic designs from the past, Heritage cards offer a nostalgic look at today’s MLB stars. With its March release date, the 2023 edition gives collectors a chance to add some of the premier young talents and veteran standouts to their vintage-styled collections.

As the flagship retro set from Topps, Heritage cards carry premium value due to their limited print runs. Parallels and short-printed variations also add to the excitement of each new release. With its blend of retro design elements and modern player content, the 2023 Topps Heritage set is primed to be another highly collectible edition in the long-running tradition. Here’s a look at some of the top cards collectors will be chasing.

Shohei Ohtani Base Card

As one of the faces of MLB, Shohei Ohtani’s base card is always a prized rookie for any collector. The two-way star continues to cement his status as a generational talent and is a lock to be one of the set’s most sought-after cards. With his dominant play on both the mound and at the plate, Ohtani has become must-have for any vintage-style collection. His retro design will make this a centerpiece for years to come.

Juan Soto Base Card

At just 24 years old, Juan Soto has already established himself as one of the game’s best hitters. After powering the Nationals to a World Series title in 2019, Soto’s base card remains a hot commodity for collectors. His prodigious talent and youth ensure he’ll be a fixture in the league for years to come. With a retro design celebrating his early career success, Soto’s 2023 Heritage issue will be a blue-chip addition.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Base Card

Prior to a devastating knee injury in 2021, Ronald Acuña Jr. was cementing his case as the best all-around player in baseball. Now fully healed, he’s looking to pick up where he left off as one of the most electrifying stars in the game. Acuña’s rookie season established him as a budding superstar, making his Heritage cards essential for any collection. His retro design will be a prized pull for collectors itching to add him.

Mike Trout Base Card

As the greatest player of his generation, Mike Trout’s base cards are always in high demand. Despite numerous injuries the past two years, Trout continues to perform at an MVP level when on the field. His resume already stacks up among the all-time greats, giving any Heritage issue premium nostalgic appeal. Trout is a lock to drive interest in the 2023 set from the first pack bust. This will be another blue-chip, long-term piece for collections.

Albert Pujols Base Card

One of the most accomplished players of all time, Albert Pujols is in the twilight of his legendary career. As he chases milestones in 2023, Pujols’ Heritage base card will be a popular one for collectors paying tribute to his first decade in the league. His retro design celebrates the many highlights from his early days with the Cardinals. This could be one of the last Heritage issues for Pujols, adding to its significance.

Short Prints and Parallels

While base cards are the foundation, the short prints and parallels are what really excite collectors chasing complete 2023 Heritage sets. Topps is sure to include several sought-after short-printed variations of the top stars. Rarest of all may be a 1-of-1 parallel if Topps continues that tradition. Rainbow parallels from the standard Gold and Silver foil versions up to the ultra-rare Red will keep collectors searching packs. These harder-to-find chase cards create buzz around each new Heritage release.

Rookies and Prospects

While this year’s rookie class may not have a transcendent name, the 2023 Heritage set will still offer collectors chances to get in early on future stars. Short prints of rookies like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman will gain traction if they break out. Lower numbered parallels could become significant pieces. The set also tends to include top prospects who may debut in 2023 like Gunnar Henderson and Druw Jones. These serve as early opportunities to acquire future core pieces for collections.

Autograph and Memorabilia Cards

For collectors pursuing high-end hits, the 2023 Topps Heritage set includes several autograph and memorabilia inserts with today’s stars. Past sets have featured on-card and relic signatures of players like Soto, Acuña Jr., and Trout. Numbered to only a few hundred copies or less, these rare autographed and game-used cards can become major long-term holdings. The Heritage brand gives these inserts an extra layer of nostalgic appeal beyond basic autographs from other sets.

The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set looks to continue the tradition as one of the most coveted retro-style releases of each year. By blending classic design elements with modern player content, each issue pays homage to the rich history of the hobby while also capturing the next generation of stars. Chasing the top rookies, parallels and hits will keep the excitement high throughout the release cycle. For collectors pursuing timeless pieces for their vintage collections, the 2023 Topps Heritage cards will certainly deliver.

2023 PANINI DONRUSS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2023 Panini Donruss baseball set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from the major sports card manufacturers. While Panini Donruss sets in recent years have not contained the same star power rookies or short printed parallels as some of their competitors, savvy collectors know that long-term, some of the key rookie cards and rare variants can gain significant value with time. With the 2023 set now hitting the market, here’s a look at some of the cards that have the potential to be extremely valuable in the years to come.

One of the top rookies in the 2023 class is Cardinals’ catcher Dillon Paulson. Considered a future star behind the plate with big power potential, Paulson’s base rookie card is a hot commodity right out of the pack. While he may not reach the hype of previous top prospects like Wander Franco, collectors see Paulson as a franchise cornerstone and are scooping up his rookies in anticipation of his debut. Numbered to only /199 copies, his Green Shimmer parallel autograph card will be one of the scarcest Paulson rookies available. With a shiny green foil and on-card autograph, these can fetch $500-600 raw currently but have the chance to appreciate significantly if Paulson lives up to the hype.

Another rookie to watch is Reds’ shortstop Elly De La Cruz. While not as hyped as Paulson coming into the season, De La Cruz lit up the Arizona Fall League in 2022 with his prodigious power and athleticism in the field. His base rookie is attainable now in the $50-75 range but parallels like the Orange Ice /50 and Red Ice /10 number are already north of $300-400 each. The true gem, though, is his 1/1 Gold Ice autograph card which was hit early on and promptly slabs a PSA 10 Gem Mint. With a population of just one, this ultra-rare rookie auto of a potential future superstar could realistically be worth $5,000+ long term.

Staying in the NL Central, Brewers’ flamethrower Ethan Small made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed why he was such a highly-regarded pitching prospect. While injuries limited his workload, when healthy he flashed plus velocity with his fastball and a solid slider-changeup mix. His base rookie is hovering around the $20 mark but parallels like the Purple Ice /199 and Red Ice /10 number could appreciate nicely if Small establishes himself as a rotation piece in Milwaukee. One to target is his Green Ice auto /50, which has already climbed north of $150 in PSA 10 condition with his potential still untapped.

Shifting to some veterans, superstar shortstop Trea Turner signed a massive 11-year, $300 million deal with the Phillies last offseason. After winning a World Series ring with the Dodgers, Turner is now the face of the Phillies franchise and a perennial MVP candidate. His base Diamond Kings parallel from Donruss is only numbered to /50 copies and already fetches $150+ raw. The true blue-chip card, though, is his 1/1 Gold Diamond Kings auto which was certified PSA/DNA GEM MINT 10. At a population of one, this ultra-exclusive on-card auto of a modern superstar could realistically push $5,000 long term as Turner continues producing at an elite level.

Another veteran with a chance to gain long-term value is Angels’ two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani. After back-to-back AL MVP awards, Ohtani has cemented himself as the best and most unique player in baseball today. While his base cards are plentiful, parallels like the Orange Ice /50 and Red Ice /10 number are already in the $75-150 range raw for his impressive dual-threat skillset. The true blue-chip is his 1/1 Gold Ice auto, which has already changed hands for over $2,000 in a PSA 10 slab. As one of the rarest Ohtani cards on the market, this one-of-a-kind auto of a true generational talent could appreciate significantly if he continues defying expectations.

No overview of valuable 2023 Donruss cards would be complete without mentioning top prospects like Dodgers’ catcher Diego Cartaya and Mariners’ outfielder Julio Rodriguez. While their base rookies hold value, it’s the short printed parallels that have true long-term potential. Cartaya’s Orange Ice /50 and Red Ice /10 auto parallels have already cleared $200-300 raw with his massive offensive upside. Rodriguez, after a stellar rookie campaign, has seen his Green Ice /199 and Red Ice /10 auto parallels jump up near $150-250 each as well. The true blue-chips are their respective Gold Ice 1/1 autographs, with Cartaya’s already changing hands for $3,000+ in a PSA 10 while Rodriguez’s could push $5,000 long term as a true one-of-a-kind rookie auto for a budding star and franchise cornerstone.

While the 2023 Donruss baseball set lacks some of the true star power rookies of years past, savvy collectors know there are still valuable cards to be had – especially in the short printed parallels and 1/1 autos of top prospects, budding stars, and veteran superstars. For collectors willing to hold long term, cards like Dillon Paulson, Elly De La Cruz, Ethan Small, Trea Turner, Shohei Ohtani, Diego Cartaya, and Julio Rodriguez parallels have the potential to gain significant value as these players’ careers progress and accomplishments accumulate. With scarcity and on-card autographs in their favor, the right 2023 Donruss parallels could end up being extremely valuable investments for patient collectors in the years to come.