Tag Archives: 2023

TOP HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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Every year in the hobby of collecting sports cards, certain cards from the past establish themselves as the key “heritage” cards that are highly sought after. These cards tend to depict some of the most legendary players throughout baseball history from the earliest era of issued cards in the late 19th century all the way up through the 1970s and 1980s. As we head into 2023, here are some of the top heritage baseball cards that collectors will be hunting for and investing in over the next year.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner: As often named the most valuable and coveted card in the world, the famed Honus Wagner card from the early 20th century T206 set remains the undisputed king of all heritage baseball cards. Produced only between 1909-1911, the rarity of even locating one of the approximately 60 high-grade examples still around makes this simply untouchable at the top of lists. Expect seven and even eight figure auction prices to continue for the fortunate few who encounter one.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle: The first card issued by Topps of one of the all-time Yankee greats, Mantle’s rookie is the pinnacle card from the post-WWII era. With Mickey’s iconic swing captured perfectly on the front, his ’52 Topps rookie holds claim as the most important post-war card alongside the likes of Ted Williams and Jackie Robinson. High grades can bring in over $2 million nowadays.

1933 Goudey Babe Ruth: Depicting the notorious “Sultan of Swat” in action for the Yankees, this early Goudey visual is among the most historic cards out there concerning one of the first true baseball superstars. High grades above a PSA 8 are all-time valuable, potentially reaching seven figures for a PSA 9 or 10. It’s one of the few cards that can rival Mantle and Wagner in terms of collectability over the long run.

1970 Nolan Ryan rookie: The first imagery issued of the future all-time strikeout king during his early days with the Mets, Ryan’s 1970 Topps rookie remains among the top modern rookie card targets. Condition is crucial, as a single-digit graded example can reach $50,000 or more due to Ryan’s lofty legend status. Lower grades in the $5-10k range show his enduring popularity too.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron: Capturing “Hammerin’ Hank” in his Milwaukee Braves uniform, this is the vital first Topps card of the eventual all-time home run leader. Grades of PSA 8 or better can end up priced over $15-20k given Aaron’s #755 milestone and cultural importance during the Civil Rights era. This is an essential card for any true vintage collection.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson/Wagner: While the true HOF talent of these Hall of Famers makes their solo cards extremely valuable, the rare T206 simultaneous portrait of Mathewson and Wagner doubles down on the history. Fewer than a dozen high-grade examples are known to exist, ensuring this landmark dual image sells for multiple millions when it crosses the block. From collecting or investing angles, it is the highest tier of any vintage card.

1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie: Serving as the much more attainable modern-era variation on his true first card two years prior, Ryan’s 1968 Topps rookie replaced his original debut appearance in Topps’s standard design. Highly sought after in top condition due to Ryan’s popularity during his record-setting later career, a PSA 9 can reach $5,000-10,000 with room to rise long-term. Still more wallet-friendly than the ’70 issue.

1948 Bowman Larry Doby rookie: Marking the first Bowman cardboard appearance of the star African American outfielder following Jackie Robinson’s 1947 debut with the Dodgers, Doby’s 1948 rookie card is an underappreciated key from that transitional era. It gains recognition as one of the most significant black pioneers, with high grades over $5,000 despite a larger print run versus contemporaries like Mantle and Williams.

1909-11 T206 Old Mill Ty Cobb Back: Highlighting one of the game’s original controversial fiercest competitors, Cobb’s solo posed shot from the famed Tobacco timing set jumps off the card front. Fewer than 10 high-quality specimens are known, indicating its superstar status is comparable to the other T206 greats in collectibility. Sets the standard as one of the all-time defining Cobb issues.

1957 Topps Willie Mays: Iconic imagery of baseball’s original “Say Hey Kid” during his playing days with the New York Giants, this early Topps Mays rookie is a must-have for any serious vintage collector. High grades above a PSA 7 are difficult to acquire but can bring multiples of thousands due to Mays’s legend. One of the most historically significant cards alongside contemporaries like Mantle and Aaron.

As highly sought after heritage cards from the earliest decade of issued cardboard through the pioneering 1950s, these 10 selections show the top targets that will maintain and gain value over the next year and beyond. Condition always plays a huge factor in their worth, with mint high grades exponentially more valuable long term. Overall they represent the biggest names and moments chronicled in the vintage era prior to the modern explosion of the 1980s. Their significance to the progression of baseball and place in history ensures these cards are must-owns for avid collectors and investors.

2023 MLB ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 MLB season will feature an exciting new crop of rookie talent making their debuts. These young players just starting their careers in the major leagues represent the future stars of baseball. Their rookie cards, the first trading cards issued featuring them in an MLB uniform, will be highly sought after by collectors.

Some of the top rookie prospects to watch for in 2023 who could have valuable rookie cards include Detroit Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler, Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene, Kansas City Royals pitcher Frank Mozzicato, Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Taj Bradley, and Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. The rookie who ends up having the highest impact on the field in their first MLB season often sees their cards gain the most value long term.

Rutschman is considered one of the best catching prospects of all time and was the #1 overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft by the Orioles. He made his MLB debut in 2022 but struggled with injuries, limiting him to just 35 games. If he can stay healthy and perform close to his potential in 2023, Rutschman’s rookie cards could be some of the most sought after. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card from 2022 has already gained value due to the hype around him.

Greene is another former top prospect who debuted in 2022 with the Reds. The #2 overall pick in the 2017 draft, Greene has a power arm that reaches over 100 MPH. He showed flashes of dominance in his rookie season but also battled injuries. Greene’s prized Topps Chrome Refractor rookie from 2022 could gain significant value if he puts together a full healthy season in 2023. Prospect hounds will be watching him closely.

Dingler was a second round pick by the Tigers in 2018 who hit his way through the minors and made his MLB debut late in 2022. He is expected to be Detroit’s starting catcher in 2023. If Dingler can hit for average and power at the major league level while providing solid defense behind the plate, his rookie cards like his Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome refractors could take off in value among Tigers collectors.

Mozzicato was a seventh round selection by the Royals in 2021 out of high school in Connecticut. He rose quickly through their system with a mid-90s fastball and plus slider. The lefty is likely to make his MLB debut at some point in 2023, and if he finds success, his rookie cards, especially Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome, will be in high demand.

Bradley is one of the Rays’ best pitching prospects, a fourth round pick in 2018. He made his MLB debut in 2022 with impressive results, showing a power arm with swing and miss stuff. Bradley will likely be in Tampa Bay’s starting rotation in 2023. If he establishes himself as a quality big league starter, his rookie cards like Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome parallels could gain long term value.

Beyond these headliners, there will be numerous other rookies who make their MLB debuts throughout the 2023 season that could emerge. Players who exceed expectations and produce strong performances often see a spike in demand for their rookie cards from collectors. Some other names to watch who may debut in 2023 include Boston Red Sox shortstop Marcelo Mayer, Chicago White Sox outfielder Oscar Colas, San Diego Padres pitcher MacKenzie Gore, Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Ricky Tiedemann, and Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic among many others.

The top rookie cards to look for will be their flagship Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome refractors as those parallels tend to carry the most cachet with collectors long term. Autograph and memorabilia cards will also hold premium value. Even their base Topps and Bowman rookie cards could gain value over time for players who pan out in the majors. It’s always hard to predict performance, but the rookies who make an immediate impact tend to see their cards recognized and increase in secondary market worth.

For investors and collectors, it’s wise to do research on prospects and track players during their first MLB action. Be selective and focus on the highest upside talents who seem poised for success. Their rookie cards offer an opportunity for potential future gain if bought at reasonable prices early. It’s also important to consider holding rookie cards long term rather than expecting a quick profit. Patience and believing in a player’s abilities can be rewarding strategies in the competitive baseball card market.

The 2023 season represents a new crop of young talent for MLB clubs and a fresh batch of rookie cards for collectors to pursue. Following the debuts of players over the year and how their cards gain or lose value can provide insight into future prospects as well as enjoyment for fans of the card hobby. Some of the names that emerge may become household names in years to come and their early cardboard could prove to be valuable holdings.

MOST VALUABLE TOPPS 2023 HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year from the iconic trading card manufacturer due to its nostalgic designs that pay homage to the early years of the company. While the base cards in Heritage sets hold relatively stable value over time, certain parallels, short prints and star player cards have tremendous potential to gain substantial worth. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable rookie and graded gem mint cards collectors should be on the hunt for from the 2023 Topps Heritage set.

Perhaps the highest valued card collectors could pull from packs of the new Topps Heritage release is a 1/1 parallel of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. As the reigning American League MVP and one of the faces of baseball, Ohtani rookies command big money even in standard base formats. A one-of-one parallel card cut from Ohtani’s Heritage design would undoubtedly sell for well into the thousands of dollars, if not over $10,000, to the right collector given his status and the ultra-rare serial number. While the odds of finding such a short print parallel are infinitesimal, its mere presence in the set makes Ohtani one of the focal points for investors.

In addition to parallel cards, players who debut in the Heritage set that same year and go on to have stellar rookie campaigns hold great long term value potential. Some names to watch who could explode in price include Seattle Mariners rookie sensation Julio Rodriguez and Houston Astros standout shortstop Jeremy Pena. Both had memorable postseason performances in 2022 as key cogs on their respective playoff teams. Should either continue developing into perennial all-stars, a PSA Gem Mint 10 graded rookie card could realistically attain a price in the multiple thousands down the road.

For collectors willing to splurge on already established veteran stars, graded versions of Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, Aaron Judge or any other active Hall of Fame caliber talent will maintain a premium. Trout remains the safest investment in baseball cards today owing to his near decade of dominance. A PSA 10 Trout Heritage rookie from 2009 currently commands well over $10,000, demonstrating steady appreciation. Kershaw and Judge rookies have seen upwards of $2,000 sales in top condition as well in recent months.

Looking beyond just current players, legendary alumni featured in the retro-styled Heritage designs also hold value. Graded rookies of all-time greats like Mickey Mantle, Ken Griffey Jr, Cal Ripken Jr. and Ted Williams can easily reach four figures or more depending on the quality level assigned by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Even stars from previous eras like Reggie Jackson, Nolan Ryan and Hank Aaron maintain thousands-level valuation in pristine preservation. The authentic vintage uniforms and simplistic style of Topps Heritage lends itself well to immortalizing baseball’s iconic figures.

When delving deeper past just the marquee rookie cards, key short prints from each year’s Heritage release carry immense potential for appreciation. serially numbered parallels like green /99, blue /150, and especially the ultra-tough red /25 parallels become extremely valuable graded gems. The lowest serial numbered base cards (i.e. #/199 or less) often command premium dollars. Heritage also has hidden “SP” short prints dispersed throughout each set at roughly 1 per case. Discovering and then attaining high grades on these SPs can result in big paydays over the long run.

Of course, all the value projections for Heritage cards are contingent on achieving coveted gem mint grades from the authoritative PSA grading service. Anything less than a PSA 9 significantly hurts resale potential. But for patient collectors willing to meticulously sort, encapsulate and wait years for cards to gain appreciation, the Heritage series remains a tried-and-true avenue to building valuable vintage-flavored holdings. With such rich baseball history and tradition baked into every annual design, Topps Heritage provides an exciting, nostalgia-driven product that many see as a surefire long term investment.

Whether searching for affordable current stars on the rise or iconic veteran legends at higher price points, the 2023 Topps Heritage release launching this summer is primed to continue producing some of the most valuable modern-day trading cards in the hobby. For collectors willing to do their research, take a chance ripping packs or scouring the secondary market, the financial returns of some Herman cards found in the right grades could prove well worth the effort involved over the long haul. Between dominant living talents, all-time great alumni and those coveted short prints, each year’s Topps Heritage release has endless gem potential for accumulating true baseball memorabilia on cardboard.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN 2023

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The baseball card market continues to heat up as interest in the hobby grows. With prices reaching new highs, many collectors are looking to the future and considering what cards may be solid long-term investments. While there is always risk involved, here are some baseball cards that analysts predict have strong potential to appreciate in value in 2023 and beyond.

Rookie Cards of Emerging Stars: Many of the biggest risers in the hobby in recent years have been the rookie cards of players who went on to stardom in their early careers. Names like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. immediately come to mind. Looking ahead to 2023, cards of emerging young talents like Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez and Bobby Witt Jr. could be primed for gains if those players continue on an upward trajectory. Franco in particular has already shown he may be a true superstar in the making.

Historic Rookie Cards: While they come with a much higher price tag, some of the most coveted and valuable baseball cards ever made are the true vintage rookie cards from the 1950s and 1960s. Cards like the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, 1957 Topps Willie Mays, and 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan are icons of the hobby that are only going to become more and more scarce over time as fewer high-grade examples remain. Even a small rise in a card’s population can cause a big spike in value for the elite examples that survive. These ultra-premium rookie cards should hold and increase their luster for serious long-term collectors.

Modern Stars’ Early Issues: For collectors looking to invest in the current generation of stars but not quite break the bank like the vintage rookies, consider chasing some of the early flagship (Topps, Bowman, etc.) issues of modern greats before they reached their prime. Examples include Mike Trout’s 2009 Topps rookie and 2011 Topps Update RC, Christian Yelich’s 2012 Bowman Chrome RC, and Cody Bellinger’s 2016 Topps Series 1 RC. If those players stay near the top of the game into their 30s, the values of their earliest accessible issues could multiply substantially from today’s prices.

Autograph Cards of Franchise Players: In the autograph market, cards signed by the faces of MLB franchises tend to hold steady value and appreciate over the long haul. Examples include cards signed by Derek Jeter, Albert Pujols, Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout and others who spent their entire careers with one team and attained iconic status there. As long as the player remains popular after retirement, their autograph cards from their playing days should be a fairly safe collectible to own long-term.

Stars of the Past Decade: While they may not carry the same long-term potential as true vintage cards, the rookie cards and early issues of superstars who dominated from the late 2000s through today still have room to rise in value as they move further into retirement. Think cards of players like Ryan Braun, Evan Longoria, Buster Posey, Andrew McCutchen, Paul Goldschmidt and others who were the faces of their franchises for near their entire careers in recent memory. As long as they are remembered fondly, their early collectibles could see steady gains.

Top Prospects: Investing in the top-rated amateur prospects before they ever play a game in the majors carries huge risk but also big reward potential if the player pans out. The best example in recent years is cards of Wander Franco from 2018-2019, which absolutely exploded in value in 2021 after his stellar MLB debut. Looking ahead, cards to watch could include Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday and some of the elite international prospects in the 2023 class like Victor Victor Mesa if they sign. Due diligence is a must, but a big prospect hit could pay off immensely.

Parallels and Serial Numbered Cards: For collectors who enjoy the chase of limited print runs, cards that are serially numbered to specific amounts or inserted as parallels in sets have historically held their premiums well long-term. Examples include Topps Chrome refractors, Bowman Chrome colored parallels, Topps Finest autographs and more. As long as the player featured gains stardom, these scarcer versions can really take off in value compared to the base issues. They may require a bigger initial investment but offer high upside.

While past performance is no guarantee of future results, focusing investment dollars on the rookie cards and early issues of young stars, proven franchise icons, and the scarcest parallel versions of their cards seems to be a strategy that weathered collectors have found success with. Due diligence on any individual player is crucial. But for those willing to adopt more of a long-term outlook, the baseball card market continues to reward patience.

2023 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases of the upcoming year. As with every Heritage release, the set pays homage to Topps’ iconic designs from the late 1960s. Heritage has developed a loyal following among collectors looking for a retro-styled set featuring today’s biggest stars. With its March release date approaching, here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the standout cards to target in 2023 Topps Heritage baseball.

One of the marquee rookie cards in the set will undoubtedly be Julio Rodríguez of the Seattle Mariners. Rodríguez had a phenomenal debut season in 2022 that saw him named American League Rookie of the Year. He hit .284 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI and also stole 25 bases. His exciting all-around game has made him one of the faces of the next generation of MLB stars. Rodríguez’s rookie card in Heritage will have tremendous long-term appeal for collectors. Expect his card to carry a hefty premium, especially for higher-numbered parallels.

Another rookie to watch is Seattle teammate George Kirby. Kirby made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed why he was such a highly-regarded pitching prospect. He finished with a 2.81 ERA over 22 starts and struck out 103 batters in 111 innings. Kirby possesses an electric four-pitch mix headlined by a mid-90s fastball. His Heritage rookie will be one of the set’s most sought-after pitcher cards. Collectors would be wise to acquire it sooner rather than later before Kirby’s stock rises even higher.

On the veterans side, Mike Trout remains one of the safest investments in the hobby. Even after a decade of dominance on the field, Trout mania shows no signs of slowing down. His retro-styled Heritage design is always a fan favorite. Low-numbered Trout parallels like auto or memorabilia cards could command four-figure price tags. For average collectors, even his base rookie remains a blue-chip hold that is virtually guaranteed to increase in value long-term.

Another perennial star on track for a big 2023 is Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani followed up his AL MVP season in 2021 by doing it again in 2022, this time winning the award unanimously. He is the best two-way player in baseball today and perhaps of all-time. His popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Ohtani’s Heritage card is sure to be one of the most popular in the set among both collectors and fans.

Rookies C.J. Abrams of the Padres and Oneil Cruz of the Pirates also deserve attention. Abrams made his MLB debut in 2022 and showcased elite defense and speed at a premium shortstop position. Cruz brings tremendous power for a middle infielder and has one of the highest ceilings of any young hitter. Their Heritage rookies could pay major dividends for collectors willing to invest early.

On the veterans side, Aaron Judge’s monster 62 home run season with the Yankees has made him one of the hottest commodities in the hobby. After turning down a contract extension, Judge could be playing elsewhere next season, increasing demand for his Yankees cards. His Heritage design will be a must-have for any collection. Fellow slugger Albert Pujols chasing the 700 home run milestone added intrigue and value to his cards down the stretch of another historic season.

Rookies like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman from last year’s class also deserve mention. While not true rookies anymore, their second year cards in Heritage remain affordable for most collectors and hold long-term potential as those players continue to develop. Parallels of stars like Mike Trout, Fernando Tatis Jr., Ronald Acuña Jr., and Juan Soto should also demand strong premiums due to their widespread popularity.

For teams, cards featuring current Dodgers and their star-studded roster including Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman will be in high demand. The same goes for the defending champion Astros with Jose Altuve, Justin Verlander and company. Yankees cards led by Aaron Judge will sell as well despite their early postseason exit. RCs of the league’s top prospects like Jackson Jobe, Druw Jones and Termarr Johnson provide intrigue for building sets as those players progress.

The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball release is primed to be another outstanding vintage-styled set. With a perfect blend of established veterans, young stars and rookie cards, it offers something for every type of collector. Julio Rodriguez, George Kirby and Oneil Cruz project to have the most valuable rookie cards. Veterans like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge will lead the way. For collectors, targeting any of these standouts as well as key parallels seems sure to provide strong long-term returns on their Heritage baseball investments.

BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR IN 2023

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The 2023 baseball season is right around the corner, which means the release of the upcoming year’s baseball cards is not far behind. As collectors look ahead to the new crop of cards hitting store shelves and hobby boxes, here are some of the top rookie cards, veteran stars, and unique inserts to keep an eye out for in 2023 sets.

One of the most anticipated rookie cards of the year will undoubtedly be Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Xavier Edwards. After a breakout 2022 season that saw him hit .299 with 18 stolen bases between Double-A and Triple-A, Edwards looks poised for a full-time role with the Rays in 2023. He has all the tools to be an impact player at the major league level for years to come. Edwards’ rookie cards from Topps, Panini, and other brands are sure to be in high demand.

Another rookie on everyone’s radar is Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene. After making his MLB debut in June of 2022, Greene impressed with a .250 batting average and 8 home runs in 70 games. He has five-tool potential and will be looking to build on his promising rookie campaign. Greene’s rookie cards, especially autographed and memorabilia cards, could appreciate significantly if he breaks out in 2023.

On the pitching side, fans will want to watch for cards of Tampa Bay Rays starter Shane Baz. The former top prospect made his MLB debut in 2022 after recovering from Tommy John surgery and looked dominant with a 1.69 ERA in 5 starts. If Baz can stay healthy and establish himself as the Rays’ ace, his rookie cards could be some of the best long-term investments in the class.

In terms of veteran stars, the return of Mike Trout to full health makes any of his 2023 cards worth pursuing. After playing just 36 games in 2022 due to injury, Trout will be highly motivated to reclaim his title as the game’s best player. His base rookie cards have already skyrocketed in value, so parallels, autographs, and memorabilia from the upcoming season stand to gain as well if Trout dominates once again.

Fellow Angel Shohei Ohtani is also must-have for any collector. After winning the AL MVP award in 2021 and continuing to excel as a two-way star in 2022, Ohtani has cemented himself as the face of baseball. His autographed and memorabilia cards could shatter records in the years to come as one of the most unique talents the sport has ever seen.

For Yankees fans, 2023 Aaron Judge cards will be at the top of many wish lists after his historic 62-home run season. Judge remains unsigned long-term in New York, so this could be collectors’ last chance to snag affordable cards of “the new Bambino” in pinstripes. Autographed Judge cards in particular are sure to gain value if he re-ups with the Bombers or signs elsewhere in free agency.

Bryce Harper also enters a contract year with the Phillies in 2023 after another All-Star campaign. The 2015 NL MVP has rebounded tremendously from injuries and will be battling to bring a World Series title to Philadelphia. Harper has long been one of the most popular stars in the game, so collectors would be wise to stock up on any 2023 parallels, autographs, or memorabilia featuring the face of the Phillies franchise.

On the rookie side, catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles is another name to watch. After a strong debut in 2022 that saw him hit .254 with 7 home runs in just 46 games, Rutschman looks ready for a full breakout season as the future cornerstone of the O’s rebuild. His prospect pedigree and five-tool ability make any of his 2023 cards a solid long-term investment.

For baseball card inserts, Topps Project 70 continues to be one of the most coveted sets each year. Featuring unique parallels and retro designs, the inserts spotlight the game’s biggest stars. Pulling a 1/1 Project 70 card of a star like Ohtani or Judge would be the crown jewel of any collection. Similarly, Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome always deliver stunning refractors and parallels of top rookies and veterans that gain value over time.

Panini also delivers exciting rookie memorabilia and autograph cards through its Prizm, Flawless, and National Treasures releases. Hits like game-used memorabilia cards of hot prospects or on-card autographs of emerging stars can appreciate exponentially with strong major league performances. Additionally, Topps Finest and Allen & Ginter are fan favorites for their beautiful photo and design variations each year.

The 2023 baseball season offers no shortage of exciting rookies, veterans, and inserts to pursue for any collector. Staying on top of early season performances and player developments will be key to identifying cards that can gain long-term value. For those willing to do the research, 2023 has the potential to yield many future collection cornerstones still affordably priced today.

BASEBALL CARDS 2023 COMPLETE SET

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for generations, allowing fans to collect pieces of the game they love. As the 2023 MLB season gets underway, collectors are eagerly awaiting the release of the new baseball card sets featuring this year’s crop of stars. Several major companies produce complete sets each year, including Topps, Panini, Leaf, and more. These complete sets allow collectors of all experience levels to acquire cards showing every player and team from the previous season in an organized collection.

One of the most anticipated releases is sure to be the 2023 Topps Base Set. As the longest-running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps’ standard base card release is a staple that many collectors aim to complete each year. The 2023 Topps set is expected to feature base cards showing every MLB player, manager, and coach from the 2022 season. Ranging from star rookies and MVPs to depth players and minor leaguers, a Topps base set capture a full season of baseball history in card form. In addition to the player cards, Topps often includes manager/coach cards, team cards, and league leader/award cards to round out the set. Topps base cards are prized for their classic design and the brand’s massive distribution ensuring the cards remain attainable and affordable for most collectors.

Another major player releasing a complete set will be Panini America with their 2023 Donruss Baseball offering. Panini has gained popularity in recent years with their modern, photo-centric designs and exclusive rookie card licenses. The Donruss set is expected to feature around 300 base cards highlighting the biggest names in the sport. Like Topps, Panini will include all MLB players as well as team and league leader/award cards. Donruss is known for using high quality action shots on their base cards and parallels that add to the visual appeal. Panini also inserts popular short print and autograph cards throughout their releases that can offer collectors big chase hits. While Panini cards may carry a higher initial price tag than Topps, their modern designs and exclusive rookies continue drawing in new collectors.

In addition to the flagship Topps and Panini releases, collectors will have options from companies like Leaf and Stadium Club for complete sets. Leaf Baseball is projected to release around 200 cards in their 2023 set with a sharp, clean design aesthetic. Stadium Club also typically includes 200-300 base cards along with stunning photography and various parallel and insert cards. Both Leaf and Stadium Club sets provide collectors looking for something outside the Topps/Panini norm with comprehensive options showing the entire league. And for collectors focused on specific teams or players, there will be complete team and player sets released as well from brands like Topps, Panini, and Leaf.

Beyond the standard base card releases, collectors can expect to see insert sets from the major brands highlighting special categories. Topps Update Series cards released mid-season are always highly anticipated, as are Topps Archives recreating classic designs. Panini also delivers popular insert sets like Donruss Optic with its refractor parallels. Leaf Metal, Diamond Kings, and Stadium Club Chrome are insert sets known for high-gloss photography. Complete insert sets offer focused collections beyond the base cards and provide alternate artistic takes on the players and the season.

For collectors of a certain experience level, high-end sets from brands like Topps, Panini, and Leaf provide even more premium options. Products like Topps Chrome, Leaf Metal Universe, and Panini Impeccable showcase the highest production values with autographs, memorabilia, and 1/1 parallel rarities. While priced for advanced collectors, these sets still encompass the entire league and season within their design concept. And brands like Topps, Panini, and Leaf also release “hobby box” products where collectors can find a random assortment of the year’s cards and chase hits in one convenient package.

Whether seeking the classic experience of a Topps base set, the modern designs of Panini, or specialty sets from brands like Leaf and Stadium Club, 2023 will offer collectors complete options to preserve the current season in card form. With the release of these flagship sets still a few months away, collectors can spend the early season scouring the previous year’s releases and planning their collections for the new year of baseball cards on the horizon. The 2023 season is shaping up to deliver top rookies, storylines, and of course, a bounty of complete baseball card sets to preserve it all for generations of fans.

UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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Upper Deck is one of the oldest and most prestigious names in the sports card industry. Founded in 1988, Upper Deck revolutionized the hobby by introducing state-of-the-art printing, cutting-edge security features, and premium quality materials. Now in its 35th year of issuing baseball cards, Upper Deck continues to raise the bar with its 2023 MLB card releases.

After more than a decade of issuing flagship Series 1 and Series 2 sets, Upper Deck made headlines in late 2022 by announcing a transition to all-foil products moving forward. Gone are the traditional cardboard base cards, replaced by high-gloss foil treatment across the entire base set checklist. This marks a real evolution for the brand and gives collectors premium cards at the base level. The foil finishes are similar to previous years’ parallels and short prints, elevating the whole set.

The 2023 Upper Deck MLB Series 1 base set includes 320 base cards, highlighting the biggest stars and top rookies from the 2022 season. Many consider this set a must-have with its all-foil design. As with previous years, Series 1 also includes various insert sets like Future Fabrics, Grand Stand Gear, Signature Stars Autographs, and Artifacts. Rated Rookie swatches, Game Gear relics, and on-card autographs of up-and-coming prospects provide high chase appeal for collectors seeking the next stars.

Series 1 packs and boxes have been hot commodities since early January as fans eagerly rip in search of rookie gems like Bobby Witt Jr., Adley Rutschman, and Julio Rodriguez. Upper Deck’s top notch QC puts these rookies in collectors’ hands with pristine condition. Insert variation ratios are higher than the industry average, keeping the hunt exciting from pack to pack. Limited parallels like Gold Foil and Red Foil rookie cards fetch top dollars via resellers like eBay given their scarcity. With Series 1 dominating the market, it will likely retain its status as the flagship MLB release for years to come.

While Series 1 sets the standard, Upper Deck ups the ante with their Series 2 release in the late spring/early summer timeframe. This parallel set highlights more late-season call-ups and award-winners from after the All-Star break. Again, the entire 320-card base set receives the luxe foil treatment. Insert sets like Grand Stand Gear get fresh updates with later stars’ uniforms and milestone moments. Of particular interest for collectors are Topps-style Black Gold Foil Parallels of key rookie cards cut to ultra-low print runs. Upper Deck confirms inserts like Dual Credentials Auto-Relics and Icons Signatures featuring two-sport athletes remain a Series 2 focus.

Series 2 rookie phenoms like Julio Rodriguez are significantly more affordable than their Series 1 counterparts at this point. With their MLB success cementing their stardom through the home stretch, Series 2 parallels of Witt, Rutschman, Rodriguez, and more handily appreciate over time. Insert variations like the aforementioned Black Gold continue rising in price as their scarcity grows more evident with passing years. Overall, Series 2 provides another opportunity for collecting alongside Series 1 at a later buying window before the season concludes.

Proving that two flagship releases isn’t enough, Upper Deck annually rolls out an Update Series in the fall to keep collectors engaged throughout the offseason. 2023 Update again provides all-foil treatment across its base checklist of notable performers from the second half and postseason. Insert sets get tweaked with fresh themes like Timeless Teams icons and Auto Exposure dual swatches. While Update rookies like Oneil Cruz and Michael Harris II have lower overall print runs, their key cards perform very respectably in the resale market given strong debut years and future upside. Short prints, parallels, and inserts attest to Update’s status as perhaps the most “bang for your buck” MLB release from Upper Deck each fall.

In addition to its three core series, Upper Deck enhances the collecting experience through special premium products curated for peak on-card memorabilia content. 2023 Diamond Kings stands out for elite on-card autographs of future Hall of Famers like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Aaron Judge with phenomenal patch materials. Legendary Marks revisits baseball’s living icons and their signature moments through rare game-used memorabilia cards. And Black Diamond delivers premium cuts of the top stars’ game-worn jerseys, bats, and gloves encapsulated in a premium protective case. These exclusive parallels significantly appreciate from their limited print runs and provide a true “holy grail” for autograph collectors.

In a market continuously adjusting to current retail realities, Upper Deck Baseball’s 2023 strategy exemplifies progress through quality, innovation, and maximizing fans’ collecting passions. By focusing on scarcity,condition, and true game-used relics, they ensure serious hobbyists can build long-term portfolios with real enduring value. With over 30 years of trust establishing the standard for sports cards, Upper Deck’s 2023 MLB release schedule is one any collector will want to closely monitor and enjoy.

RAREST BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has grown tremendously over the past few decades. As interest in the sport has risen worldwide, so too has enthusiasm for vintage cardboard from baseball’s storied history. While most cards are relatively common and affordable, there remain elusive specimens that are among the rarest and most valuable in the entire collecting realm. As we enter 2023, here are some of the rarest and most coveted baseball cards that collectors pine to add to their collections.

Perhaps the single most famous and cherished baseball card is the legendary 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced by the American Tobacco Company between 1909-11, it is widely considered the “Mona Lisa” of sports cards. What makes it so iconic is not just its subject matter featuring the legendary “Pirate King” Honus Wagner, but also its extreme rarity. It is believed only 50-200 original examples still exist today in varying conditions. In pristine PSA/BGS grades of 8-10, examples have reached auction prices north of $6 million, making it one of the most valuable cards ever printed. Few people even dream of owning this elusive treasure of cardboard.

Another ultra-rare pre-war gem is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth cardboard. Produced while Ruth was still toiling for the minor league Baltimore Orioles, it captures “The Bambino” at a young age before transcending to baseball immortality with the Red Sox and Yankees. Fewer than 10 are believed to still survive, and the condition of those that do is often quite fragile after over 100 years. A high-graded example could easily top seven figures on today’s auction market. Much like the Wagner, it is a piece of baseball relic that few modern collectors will realistically add to their treasured collections.

For fans of the post-war 1952 Topps era, one of the rarest chase cards has to be the prized Mickey Mantle rookie. While over 500,000+ Mantle rookies were initially printed, the survivability rate over 70 years has whittled that number down considerably. In gem mint PSA/BGS 10 condition, there are estimated to be fewer than 10 in existence. A flawless example today would command well over $2 million at auction amongst spirited bidding. Even lower-graded versions still trade hands for six-figure sums. Finding a true “gem mint” Mantle rookie in a person’s collection is a legitimate collector’s dream.

Another spectacularly rare post-war gem is the 1967 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card. While over 800,000 were printed initially, mint quality survivors are exceedingly tough to locate after 55+ years of surviving in attics and basements. There are believed to be no more than 5-10 true PSA/BGS 10 pristine examples left in the entire world. Given Ryan’s hallowed status as a pitching icon and the all-time strikeout king, this rookie has become one of the most coveted and valuable in the modern era. A perfect 10 could draw over $1 million today from wealthy vintage card collectors.

For fans seeking ultra-premium baseball rarities from the late 20th century, few chase cards can match the acclaimed 1971 Topps Traded Nolan Ryan-Joe Morgan duel card (#46). Only 24 were inserted randomly in the original 1971 Topps Traded baseball sets. Their extreme scarcity, coupled with featuring two future Hall of Famers, has elevated this dual cardboard into one of the rarest and most valuable modern cards ever produced. An example that graded PSA/BGS Mint 9.5 that recently surfaced fetched an astounding $375,000 at auction, reflecting its elite condition surviving 50+ years. Truly, one of the treasures sought most fervently by aficionados of the post-1960s era.

One intriguing specimen that occupies an ultra-rarified air is the 1984 Donruss Opening Day Francisco Cabrera ‘retired’ jersey patch card. The curious backstory behind it involves Cabrera actually retiring from pro ball after this oddball single card was produced featuring his infamous “#99” jersey fragment. Only a tiny handful are known to exist, perhaps less than 5 copies total. Its complete one-of-one status and novel premise make it an utterly beguiling modern oddity endlessly intriguing to collectors of the modern memorabilia card boom era.

In summarizing, while most vintage baseball cards can be purchased relatively affordably, there remain spectacular specimens that survive in such microscopic supply that they have ascended to the status of truly unobtainable trophies. Whether its pre-war icons like Wagner and Ruth or post-war super-scarce gems like the Mantle, Ryan and 1971 Topps Traded cards, securing any of these elite rarities would represent a monumental coup and legacy securing addition to even the most well-heeled collections. For those merely content to admire them from afar, their myths will continue stoking the passions of collectors for generations to come.

DODGERS BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are coming off another impressive season in 2022 that saw them win 111 games and capture their ninth National League West division title in 10 years. While they fell short of their ultimate goal of winning the World Series, losing in the NLDS to the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers remain one of baseball’s most successful franchises with a talented and star-studded roster. With the 2023 season on the horizon, collectors can look forward to a new crop of Dodgers baseball cards featuring some of the game’s biggest names.

One of the most highly-anticipated Dodgers cards for 2023 will certainly be of outfielder Mookie Betts. The 2018 American League MVP continued his All-Star caliber play in 2022, batting .273 with 32 home runs and 98 runs batted in. An impossible combination of speed, power, and defense, Betts has cemented himself as a true five-tool superstar and the face of the Dodgers franchise since arriving in a trade from Boston prior to the 2020 season. Given his status among the elite players in baseball today, Betts’ rookie cards from Upper Deck, Topps, Panini, and other manufacturers are sure to be some of the most sought-after Dodgers cards on the market next year.

Another generational talent Dodgers fans will be looking for in 2023 sets is shortstop Trea Turner. Acquired in a blockbuster deadline deal with Washington in 2021, Turner has thrived in blue since being reunited with former Nationals teammate Max Scherzer. The lightning-quick 28-year-old hit .298 with 21 homers and 100 RBI for Los Angeles in 2022 and finished third in NL MVP voting, showing no signs of slowing down as he heads into free agency. With question marks surrounding his long-term future in Dodger Blue, Turner’s 2023 cards could take on added significance for collectors if he signs elsewhere in the offseason.

In what may end up being a relatively quiet free agency period for the Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw is another key name whose future remains uncertain beyond 2022. After missing over two months of the season with injury, the future Hall of Famer returned in time for the postseason and tossed seven stellar innings of one-run ball against the Padres in the NLDS. Now 35, Kershaw will weigh whether to return for a 16th season in Dodger blue or hang up his cleats. His decades of dominance in Los Angeles have made him a legend among fans there and 2023 could feature what collectors hope aren’t his “final cards” if he retires.

While superstars like Betts, Turner, and possibly Kershaw headline the Dodger cards of 2023, fans should also be on the lookout for rising young talent like starting pitcher Tony Gonsolin and All-Star outfielder Chris Taylor. Gonsolin emerged as the Dodgers’ most reliable starter in 2022, going 16-1 with a 2.14 ERA across 25 starts and firmly establishing himself in their rotation for years to come. Meanwhile, Taylor has quietly established himself as one of LA’s steadiest and most versatile players, batting .254 with 12 homers while playing six different positions this past season. With continued strong play, Gonsolin and Taylor rookie cards should gain value among collectors next year.

The Dodgers’ influx of young talent extends beyond just Gonsolin and Taylor as well. Shortstop/third baseman Miguel Vargas turned heads this summer when he was called up from Triple-A and batted .294 in 32 games, showing the ability to be an impact bat for years to come. Meanwhile, outfield prospects James Outman and Andy Pages had breakout seasons in the minors and could debut in LA as early as 2023 if they keep progressing. With their established stars and a talented farm system, the Dodgers cards of 2023 offer appeal for both present and future investments for collectors young and old.

Looking back at their franchise history, the Dodgers have featured some true legends over the decades whose vintage cards remain highly coveted collector’s items as well. Legendary players like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, Fernando Valenzuela, Eric Karros, Orel Hershiser, Kirk Gibson, and plenty more dot the franchise’s deeply rich history. For collectors looking to grow an investment collection featuring Dodger icons of the past, 2023 could be a great opportunity to chase RCs or vintage gems from the catalogs of Topps, Fleer, Donruss, and others depicting LA stars of yesteryear. With the nostalgia appeal of the Dodgers’ storied past combined with an exciting present and future under Andrew Friedman’s guidance, their baseball cards will surely be a hot commodity for years to come.

All in all, 2023 shapes up to be another exciting year for Dodgers baseball card collectors with questions surrounding free agents like Turner and Kershaw paired with the continued emergence of young offensive and pitching talent taking shape on the field in Chavez Ravine. As one of the game’s marquee franchises with a championship-caliber roster, the Dodgers always attract appeal among collectors both locally in LA as well as nationally. Whether chasing stars of today or relics from the team’s storied history, Dodger fans and investors alike will have plenty to scrutinize as the 2023 card season gets underway.