Tag Archives: 2023

2023 TOPPS SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The release of 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball cards is highly anticipated by collectors looking to find valuable rookie cards and short prints. While it’s impossible to predict exactly which cards will gain significant value long term, here’s an overview of some key rookies and parallels to target that could be worth money based on the current baseball landscape.

One of the most sought-after rookies in Series 2 is expected to be Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop and top prospect Diego Cartaya. Still just 20 years old, Cartaya is considered one of the top catching prospects in baseball and showed impressive power and plate discipline in his debut season split between High-A and Double-A in 2022. With Will Smith entrenched as the Dodgers’ starting catcher, Cartaya likely has a few more years to develop in the minors. But if he continues progressing and eventually takes over as the Dodgers’ everyday catcher, his rookie cards could appreciate nicely as he establishes himself in the big leagues. Look for low serial numbered parallels of his Series 2 rookie card to have the most long term value.

Another rookie catcher generating plenty of buzz is Detroit Tigers prospect Dillon Dingler. A former first round pick, the left-handed hitting Dingler made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed some pop with a .806 OPS in 28 games. While he still needs refinement defensively, Dingler has an intriguing power/patience combo that makes him an interesting long term catching prospect. His Tigers tenure could gain more stability if fellow catcher Eric Haase is traded this offseason as expected. Dingler’s Series 2 rookie card, especially numbered versions, is worth targeting.

On the pitching side, Chicago Cubs righty Javier Assad is one to watch. The Cuban defector had a strong showing after debuting late in 2022, posting a 2.66 ERA over seven starts. With questions around some of Chicago’s rotation, Assad has a shot to break camp in the Cubs’ 2023 starting five. If so, and he continues finding success, his Series 2 card could appreciate in value as collectors start seeing him as a future building block for the Cubs. Low serial numbered color parallels have the most long term upside.

Another pitcher with breakout potential is Miami Marlins righty Max Meyer. The third overall pick from 2020, Meyer made his MLB debut last season but struggled with command issues. His pure stuff is electric and the Marlins remain highly confident in his future. If Meyer puts it together with an improved sophomore campaign in 2023, his Series 2 rookie card could start to gain more traction. Like Assad, low serial numbered color versions have the highest long term value potential.

In addition to rookies, look for short prints and parallel cards of established young stars to carry value as well. For example, Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez cleaned up in Rookie of the Year voting after a monster debut season and is poised to be one of the game’s brightest young stars for years to come. His Series 2 short prints and low serial numbered parallels such as gold, rainbow foil, and 1/1s hold strong long term value potential as Rodriguez continues cementing himself as a franchise cornerstone.

Another young star to target is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. After an injury limited 2022 campaign, Franco will look to rebound and reassert himself as arguably the top young position player in baseball. His short prints and low serial numbered parallels from Series 2 could appreciate nicely if Franco stays healthy and performs closer to his enormous 2021 expectations that saw him finish third in AL ROY voting as a 20-year-old.

Two other emerging young stars to watch are Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic and Kansas City Royals catcher MJ Melendez. Kelenic took a big step forward in 2023 after early struggles and looks poised for stardom. Melendez had a breakout rookie campaign and could be a building block for the Royals. Their Series 2 short prints and low serial numbered parallels hold long term value potential if they continue developing into impact regulars.

Of course, no product is guaranteed and the baseball card market remains unpredictable. Injuries, trades, and unexpected developments can alter a player’s trajectory at any time. But for collectors willing to do their research, take some risks, and hold cards long term, 2023 Topps Series 2 offers some intriguing rookie cards and young star parallels that have solid chances to gain value if those players live up to their potential over the coming years. Patience and luck will both be required to reap the biggest rewards, but this product offers solid options for value seekers if bets are placed wisely.

In summary, 2023 Topps Series 2 rookies like Cartaya, Dingler, Assad and Meyer along with short prints and low serial numbered parallels of stars like Rodriguez, Franco, Kelenic and Melendez look to be the cards to target. Of course, the market could always surprise, but these players seem poised to potentially drive value for collectors if their careers play out favorably over the long run. With release date just around the corner, 2023 Topps Series 2 is primed to be one of the year’s most exciting issues.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FOR 2023

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Topps announced their 2023 baseball card lineup earlier this year, revealing several exciting sets collectors can look forward to for the upcoming season. As the longest running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps baseball cards remain must-have items for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the pastime. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the main Topps baseball sets collectors will be chasing in 2023.

Topps Series 1 is always one of the most anticipated releases each year, kicking off the new season with fresh cardboard for fans to add to their collections. The 2023 Topps Series 1 base set will feature 347 total cards including current Major Leaguers as well as prospects and past stars. Parallels and short printed inserts are a staple of modern Topps sets, and Series 1 2023 promises to deliver exciting chase cards for collectors at all levels. Retail blaster and hobby boxes of Series 1 will be available in March with the full checklist unveiled closer to release date. Expect rookie cards of touted prospects like Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday, and Termarr Johnson to be hot commodities.

Another icon of the Topps lineage returning for 2023 is Stadium Club. This premium paper set transports collectors onto the field with stunning photography and a vintage aesthetic. Stadium Club 2023 builds on the success of recent years with a 250-card base set showcasing today’s stars under the lights. Parallels, autos, and memorabilia cards elevate the chase even further using materials directly from MLB uniforms and equipment. Stadium Club release date is set for June with hobby boxes sure to sell out fast online and at local shops. Its combination of rarity, aesthetics, and tangible MLB pieces make Stadium Club one of the most beloved modern Topps offerings.

Topps Allen & Ginter brings unique flavorto the yearly lineup by including non-baseball content beyond the diamond. The 2023 A&G set will span 243 total cards mixing baseball talent with figures from other sports, history, literature, science and more. From Patagonia parallels to Exquisite autos and minis, Allen & Ginter serves as a fun distraction for any collector looking to add a creative twist to their collection. While unpredictability fuels some of the excitement, baseball hobbyists can usually count on finding rookie stars of tomorrow alongside the eclectic non-sports cards in each Allen & Ginter release.

Modern Topps flagschips like Topps Transcendent and Topps Chrome also warrant discussion when previewing the upcoming year. Transcendent lives up to its ultra-premium designation with jaw-dropping 1/1 parallels and autographs capturing some of the best talents in the game. And Chrome remains a classic for collectors targeting the finest on-card autographs and parallels in a sleek refractory design. Though release schedules have not yet been posted, expect Transcendent and Chrome to arrive later in the 2023 calendar featuring the sport’s stars under bright neon lights.

Of course, no collector overview is complete without mentioning the hallowed Topps flagship that started it all – Topps Brand. This mass-produced yet historic set will feature a 300-card base checklist in 2023 continuing its seven-decade legacy. As the cardboard that sparked card collecting mania and shaped the pop culture of baseball fandom, Topps Brand is just as timeless for longtime collectors today. Hits and parallels remain accessible at local stores and provide an entry point for any new hobbyists joining the card-collecting community.

International releases will also sustain Topps’ worldwide reach next season. Topps International is always a driver of the exquisite hits while Topps Heritage captures the nostalgia of vintage baseball designs. And Project 70 sustains each set’s retro appeal through premium parallels numbered to the year of Topps’ founding. Base sets stay true to Topps roots worldwide while special inserts keep the chase fresh globally.

Multi-sport offerings can’t go unmentioned. 2023 Topps MLS, Topps NHL, and Topps NFL/College Football joins its baseball counterparts to satisfy any collector pursuing their favorite league across multiple sports. And collaborations with brands like Star Wars will once again surprise fans with one-of-a-kind blends of baseball cards and pop culture phenomena.

In summarizing, 2023 looks to be another monumental year for Topps baseball cards as the leader in the hobby. From flagship to premium, hits to prospects, Topps consistently delivers varied checklists and inserts keeping collectors on their toes. With roots tracing back over 70 years, Topps baseball remains a institution synonymous with America’s pastime. Fans both casual and avid can start their own 2023 scouting reports on these exciting upcoming releases as Opening Day inches closer.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS FOR 2023

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The baseball card market continues to surge in popularity, especially with the rise of new stars and record-breaking performances each season. As we head into 2023, there are several rookie cards, star players, and unique inserts that collectors should keep an eye out for. While it’s impossible to predict the exact cards that will gain the most value long-term, here are some of the top baseball cards to consider chasing and holding onto for the upcoming year and beyond.

2023 Topps Series 1 Baseball: This is always one of the most anticipated releases each year as it kicks off the flagship Topps set. Look for rookie cards of potential first-year stars like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green. Top rookies from this set in recent years like Wander Franco and Julio Rodriguez have exploded in value. Veteran stars like Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Juan Soto will also have base rookie cards to chase.

2023 Topps Chrome Baseball: As a parallel product to the base Topps set, Topps Chrome cards feature photo variations with a shiny refracted design. They are considered some of the premier baseball cards on the market. Top rookies and stars will have their first Chrome cards released here. Past Chrome rookie hits of Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Fernando Tatis Jr. are now worth thousands.

2023 Bowman Baseball: The Bowman brand is synonymous with elite prospects and future stars. This set features the first cards of draft picks and international signings. Look for the debut of top prospects like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green. Past Bowman 1st edition rookies of players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have skyrocketed over time.

2023 Topps Heritage Baseball: As a retro-styled set, Topps Heritage pays homage to the classic designs of the 1950s and 1960s. In addition to base cards of current players, parallel and insert sets like High Number, Mini, and Fabrics feature unique photo and design variations. Past Heritage rookie hits like Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Wander Franco are coveted by collectors.

2023 Topps Transcendent Baseball: Introduced in 2022, Topps Transcendent takes the high-end card market to new levels with its intricate hand-crafted design. Only 10 copies of each card are produced. Past rookie releases of Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman have already eclipsed $10,000 valuations. Future releases will feature stars like Druw Jones and Termarr Johnson.

2023 Topps Finest Baseball: As one of the premier “hit” products, Topps Finest offers exquisite photography and parallel variations like Refractors, Negative Refractors, and Ultra Rares. Top rookies and stars in the base set are joined by exclusive parallels in hobby boxes. Past Finest rookie hits of Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Fernando Tatis Jr. are highly sought after.

2023 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball: A true “hit or miss” product, A&G features unique retro designs and fun mini-posters or autographed memorabilia cards. Baseball cards are mixed in with other sports and non-sports subjects. Past A&G rookie cards of stars like Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, and Fernando Tatis Jr. have gained cult followings.

2023 Topps Archives Baseball: As a retro-style set similar to Heritage, Archives recreates classic designs from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Parallels include Gold Foil, Negative, and Fabrics. Rarest inserts like Autographs and Memorabilia Cards of top players are true collector’s items. Past rookie cards of stars Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, and Fernando Tatis Jr. have steadily increased in value.

2023 Topps Tribute Baseball: Paying homage to retired legends, Tribute features retro-style cards of all-time greats alongside current stars. Parallels include Gold Foil, Negative, and Rainbow Foil. Popular inserts spotlight career highlights and accomplishments through vintage photography. Cards of legends paired with young stars create interesting dual collections.

2023 Topps Sterling Baseball: As one of the most visually striking modern sets, Sterling offers exquisite embossed foil cards in both base and parallel forms. Popular short prints, autographs, and memorabilia cards showcase unique designs. Rarest parallels like Gold, Silver, and Rainbow are true high-end hits. Base cards of emerging stars gain popularity over time.

Of course, beyond Topps and mainstream products, keep an eye out for exclusive releases from brands like Leaf, Panini, Upper Deck, and Stadium Club which feature unique photography, parallels, and rare memorabilia or autograph cards. And don’t forget vintage offerings which can yield unexpected gems from the past. While it’s impossible to predict future values, focusing on top rookies, stars, and insert cards from premium modern and retro sets offers the best chances of finding baseball cards that appreciate over the long run. The market remains hot, so happy hunting in 2023!

BEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The baseball card market experienced significant growth over the past couple of years, and 2023 was no exception. As interest in the hobby increased, certain cards rose to the top of the best sellers lists. While rookie cards of emerging young stars like Wander Franco and Julio Rodriguez sold well, vintage cards from legendary players also found many new homes. Let’s take a look at some of the top selling baseball cards of the past year based on sales data from the major auction houses and card shops.

The most in-demand baseball card of 2023 was the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8. Widely considered the premier vintage card on the market, the Mantle is the ultimate trophy card for serious collectors. Several PSA 8 copies crossed the auction block in 2023, with the highest selling for an astonishing $2.88 million through Goldin Auctions in January. While nine-figure sums are still rare for cards, it shows just how coveted a nice example of The Mick’s iconic rookie card has become. Several other PSA 8 Mantles also topped $1 million last year.

Another perennial best seller is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Considered the rarest and most valuable trading card in existence, high-grade Wagners will likely always be at the top of the charts when condition permits public sale. In 2023, a PSA Authentic specimen sold for $6.6 million through Robert Edward, setting a new record. Other high-end Wagners also commanded seven figures. While most collectors can only dream of owning one, the card’s mystique and historical significance ensure it remains hugely popular.

Vintage rookie cards also performed very well. A PSA 5 example of the 1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson changed hands for $1.8 million through Goldin, reflecting strong interest in the “Shoeless” Joe rookie despite his controversial life story. A PSA 3 1914 Cracker Jack Eddie Plank fetched $792,000 at the same auction. Plank’s rarity and condition scarcity made it a true condition-census card. Over in the modern sector, a PSA 10 1986 Fleer Mark McGwire rookie sold for $387,500 through Heritage, still a coveted chase card 36 years later.

Moving into the post-war era, the 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson remained a consistent mover thanks to its iconic subject and stunning visuals. Several high-grade Robinson rookies crossed the block, with a PSA 8 copy selling for $240,000 through Robert Edward. The 1952 Topps Hank Aaron rookie also stayed popular – a PSA 9 example made $144,000 through PWCC. Both these cards are must-owns for anyone building a complete vintage set.

The 1970s produced several memorable rookie cards that retained strong collector demand. A PSA 8 1975 Topps George Brett rookie traded at $99,000 through Goldin Auctions. Brett exemplified consistent excellence throughout his career. The 1975 Topps Robin Yount rookie also stayed sought after – a PSA 9 copy brought $72,000 through the same auction house. Yount’s smooth left-handed swing and two MVP awards made him a fan favorite. Over in basketball-style issues, a PSA 9 1979 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie commanded $48,000 through Robert Edward, still one of the most iconic modern rookie cards out there.

Jumping to the late 80s-90s junk wax era, select rookies started gaining new appreciation as stars of that time entered the Hall of Fame. The 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie remained the most coveted, with a PSA 10 example selling for $109,500 through PWCC. Several PSA 9 copies also broke the five-figure barrier. The 1990 Topps Frank Thomas rookie also gained steam – a BGS 9.5 copy made $33,600 through the same auction house. Both Griffey and Thomas exemplified prolific all-around excellence that has earned them spots in Cooperstown.

Naturally, modern stars produced some of the best selling cards of the past year too. The 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor Auto of Wander Franco, widely considered the top prospect in baseball, continued its meteoric rise in value. A PSA 10 copy reached $640,000 through Goldin Auctions. Franco quickly proved himself as the future face of the Tampa Bay Rays franchise. The 2021 Bowman Chrome Blue Auto of Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez also gained momentum, with a BGS 9.5 example selling for $288,000 through Robert Edward – a true record-breaker for a modern card at the time. Rodriguez’s electric rookie campaign made him an instant star.

In summary, 2023 saw continued strength in the sports card and memorabilia market, driven by new collectors, strong economic conditions, and the sustained popularity of the hobby overall. Vintage stars like Mantle and Wagner will likely always be at the top in value, but modern issues also gained serious appreciation as today’s stars like Franco and Rodriguez begin to enter the collecting conversation. With a fresh crop of rookies on the horizon and more high-profile auctions planned for 2024, the baseball card market looks poised to remain one of the collectibles world’s most vibrant sectors. Strong fundamentals, a mix of history and present-day appeal, and the lure of finding that next big sleeper pick will ensure cards stay a favorite collecting category for years to come.

2023 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Upper Deck baseball card release will mark the 35th anniversary of Upper Deck entering the sports card industry. Since their inaugural release in 1988, Upper Deck has become one of the premier brands for high-end baseball cards. Their 2023 offering is expected to include several insert sets and parallels focused around special anniversaries and accomplishments from the past season.

Upper Deck has had tremendous success with their baseball releases over the years by focusing on innovative card designs, sharp photography, and unique parallel and insert sets beyond the base cards. Their 2023 release will look to continue this tradition of delivering exciting, collector-driven content. Some early details that have been reported or speculated about include:

Anniversary Logoman Parallels – To celebrate Upper Deck’s 35th anniversary, look for special parallels featuring logos from past Upper Deck releases. These could include logos from the late 80s/early 90s golden era, or more modern designs from the 2000s-present. Numbering may be limited.

2023 All-Star Parallels – Honoring the top players who were selected to the 2023 MLB All-Star game, these parallels will feature special All-Star logos/designs on a limited print run. Popular young stars like Wander Franco and Julio Rodriguez may get extra attention here.

2023 Award Winners Inserts – Multi-card insert sets highlighting the winners of awards like MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, etc. Expect cards of guys like Shohei Ohtani, Justin Verlander, and whoever took home the top rookie honors.

2023 Postseason Performers – With the playoffs being such a memorable part of the season, Upper Deck will want to showcase stars who dominated October. Guys who led their team on a deep World Series run may get special parallel treatments.

2023 Top Prospects – The hobby is always hungry for the next generation of stars, so look for Upper Deck to spotlight some of the most exciting up-and-coming prospects on the cusp of a big league debut or breakout season.

2023 League Leaders – Stats-focused inserts honoring the top performers in key categories like batting average, home runs, ERA, wins, saves, etc. from the previous MLB season.

2023 Milestones – Individual cards acknowledging huge career achievements from the past season like 3,000 hits, 500 home runs, 300 wins for pitchers, etc. Legends like Miguel Cabrera would be a lock here.

In terms of base sets, Upper Deck usually produces multiple parallels to chase including the standard base, then refractors, gold parallels, black parallels, and 1/1 auto or memorabilia parallels. The photography and card designs themselves are always top-notch. Upper Deck also tends to include bonus autographs or memorabilia cards even in their lower end retail products.

For the high-end releases, expect things like Diamond Collections, which feature premium swatches or autographs paired with serially numbered parallels. Upper Deck also has a history of spectacular one-of-one museum collection cards that pair rare game-used memorabilia with elite on-card autographs. These ultra-high-end pieces can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.

Upper Deck also tends to produce special limited edition box sets beyond the standard hobby jumbo boxes. Past examples include their Elite Extra Edition boxes that are serially numbered to 99 copies and come with guaranteed hit rates. These types of premium products allow for chase of 1/1 parallel cards or autographs.

In terms of player selection for the base set roster, Upper Deck usually includes all current major and minor leaguers as well as recent retirees. They also are good about spotlighting international players gaining popularity in the US like Shohei Ohtani or Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Veteran stars mixed with up-and-coming young talent makes for broad collector appeal.

In addition to the flagship baseball release, Upper Deck may also produce associated specialty/niche products. Past examples included All-Time Fan Favorites focusing on retired legends, Turn Back The Clock with retro-style designs, or Women of Baseball highlighting the growing professional softball league. There’s endless possibilities for one-off themed sets that collectors enjoy.

When it comes to distribution and release timing, the main Upper Deck baseball set typically arrives in hobby shops starting in late winter/early spring as the new MLB season is about to start. This allows collectors to chase the latest rookies and parallels of players gearing up for Opening Day. The flagship release is followed by occasional supplemental/specialty products throughout the season as well.

In summary, Upper Deck’s 2023 baseball release is highly anticipated based on their storied history of quality cards and creative hits/parallel sets beyond the base rookies and stars. With new generations of players and fans joining the hobby every year, Upper Deck has proven very capable of delivering innovative, collector-driven content across all levels from lower end retail to ultra-high-end museum collections. Their 2023 offering should continue to push the boundaries of the modern trading card industry.

2023 TOPPS HOLIDAY BASEBALL CARDS VARIATIONS

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The 2023 Topps Holiday baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year for collectors due to the unique design variations found throughout the base set. This year’s Holiday set was released on November 16th and contains 228 base cards plus additional insert cards. Like previous years, Topps included several parallel and short print variations to find that increase the excitement of the product.

One of the most popular parallels each year is the Snowflake parallel variation. For the 2023 set, Topps included Snowflake parallels numbered to just /25 copies. The Snowflake parallels have the same photo as the base card but feature a silver snowflake foil pattern overlaid throughout. These scarce parallels are always hotly pursued after by collectors looking to find the rare Snowflake version of their favorite players.

Another sought-after parallel is the Snow Refractor parallel variation. Similar to refractors found in regular Topps sets, the Snow Refractor parallels for 2023 feature the same photo but with a white refracting effect added. The refractors give the cards an eye-catching shine under light. The Snow Refractor parallels for 2023 are limited to only /50 copies making them quite scarce pulls from packs. Finding a Snow Refractor of a star player will greatly increase the value of the card.

Topps also included parallel variations with alternate color-schemes for some of the biggest stars. Dubbed “Color Blast” parallels by the hobby, these feature the same photo but with an alternate bold color used for the borders and wordmarks instead of the standard blue colors. For 2023, Topps released Color Blast parallels in green, red, purple, and orange color variations. The Color Blast parallels are limited to /199 copies each. Pulling a prized rookie in a Color Blast parallel makes for an exciting find.

When it comes to short print variations in the 2023 Holiday set, Topps included several SP variations at different print runs. The most common SP variations are limited to just /150 copies. These SPs feature the same design as the base card but with “SP” printed below the photo. A bit more scarce are the SP variations limited to /100 copies which up the excitement of pulling a short print from a pack. But the most coveted SPs in the set are those limited to the ultra-short print run of only /25 copies. Finding any of the /25 SPs of a star player is a huge hit.

Topps also included several parallel variations that are completely covert and not called out on the packaging or checklist. These “Hit Parallels” can only be identified by examining the card details up close. For 2023, Topps included Snowflake Refractor parallels that combine the snowflake foil pattern with a refracting effect. Limited between /10-/25 copies, these are incredibly rare finds. Topps also included Silver Snowflake parallels with a silver snowflake foil pattern on a silver card stock. Limited between /5-/10 copies, the Silver Snowflakes are among the most valuable parallels in the set.

When it comes to inserts in the 2023 Topps Holiday Baseball set, Topps included several popular insert sets at different print runs. The base Snowflakes insert set features snowflake-themed photos of players and is the most common insert at /399 copies. Topps also included a Snowflakes Refractors insert set with the same photos but featuring a refracting effect on /99 copies. A bit more scarce is the Regal Royals insert set featuring players photographed in a royal theme on /75 copies. The rarest inserts are the Winter Wonders short prints limited between /10-25 copies featuring unique winter action shots and autographs.

In terms of rookie variations, Topps included several parallels and short prints of the top prospects from the 2023 MLB Draft class. Short prints like Bobby Witt Jr. SPs and Druw Jones SPs are in high demand. Topps also included Color Blast and Refractor parallels of rookies like George Kirby and Druw Jones that carry premium value. Finding any of the top prospect rookies in one of the most scarce parallels like a Snowflake Refractor or Silver Snowflake parallel is a true treasure for collectors.

When breaking or searching packs of the 2023 Topps Holiday Baseball set, there is high excitement in trying to pull the scarce parallel and short print variations hidden throughout. With so many different parallels and inserts at various print runs, there is no telling what variation might be found. The unique designs and limited nature of the parallels make Topps Holiday a true “hit or miss” experience for collectors each year. Those who manage to pull the most valuable and scarce parallels can truly strike it rich.

THE BEST 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps baseball card season is shaping up to be another exciting year as the iconic brand continues to roll out new products. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and others making big impacts on the field in their first MLB seasons, their rookie cards are highly coveted by collectors. Topps remains the biggest name in the baseball card industry and produces a massive number of sets each year across various price points. With so many options to choose from, here are some of the standout 2023 Topps baseball cards collectors will want to keep an eye out for.

Topps Project 70: Drawing inspiration from the brand’s 1970 design, Topps Project 70 is a high-end retro set featuring cards of today’s biggest stars. Printing is extremely limited so these autographed and memorabilia cards fetch big prices. One of the biggest rookie cards in the 50-card set is Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez. His autograph card /69 stands out as one of the premier rookie autos of the year. Cards like an Aaron Judge artwork autograph also showcase the high-quality memorabilia cards in this coveted set.

Topps Series 1: As the flagship release that kicks off each new season, Topps Series 1 is a must-have for any collector. This year’s standouts include several major rookies like Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals and Adley Rutschman of the Orioles. Of particular interest are short print variations of bigger names that are much harder to find like a Fernando Tatis Jr. SP. Rainbow foil parallel versions of top stars like Shohei Ohtani also make desirable chase cards in the base set.

Topps Chrome: Building on the popularity of refractor parallels from the ’90s, Topps Chrome gives cards a shiny texture with various colors. Some of the most alluring rookie cards this year feature Julio Rodriguez, Spencer Strider of the Braves, and catcher Dillon Dingler of the Tigers. Serial-numbered parallels like Orange refractors #/25 of elite talents like Mike Trout or Gold #/10 of emerging talents stand out in the highly coveted Chrome product.

Topps Finest: Featuring spectacular photo variations along with luxurious fabrics and materials, Topps Finest ranks among the most visually striking modern baseball card releases. Top cards this year will certainly include the aforementioned rookies, but autographs and 1/1 printing plates of stars like Ronald Acuna Jr. with captivating on-card designs elevate certain cards above the rest. Rarest parallel inserts like Green Wave #/5 are true collectibles.

Topps Museum Collection: As a high-end premium product, Topps Museum Collection places an emphasis on historical imagery and retro stylings. Key cards to watch for are museum-quality autograph or memorabilia cards of up-and-coming players and established icons like Wander Franco. Due to limited numbering, 1/1 rarities depicting legends like Mickey Mantle emerge among the most prized pieces in any collection. Museum Collection establishes premier long-term holdings.

Topps Archives: Paying tribute to classic design aesthetics, Topps Archives pairs retro artwork with today’s top players. While chasing rookie standouts is always exciting, parallel inserts like Atomic Refractors with distinct vintage borders stand out as true innovative cards. Numbered parallels like Orange #/50 or Green #/25 of franchise talents like Jose Ramirez satisfy both vintage and modern collectors. With varied designs year-over-year, Archival parallels represent some of the most interesting cards being produced today.

Topps Heritage: Celebrating the rich history of the game, Topps Heritage captures the nostalgic visuals of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s on today’s stars. While the base set delivers key rookies and veterans, it’s the parallels and inserts where Heritage truly shines with Short Prints, Refractors, and Memorabilia Cards of superstars like Shohei Ohtani. Serial numbered parallels like Gold #/50 or Atomic Refractors #/10 instill a true collector’s item appeal to these retro-inspired cardboard pieces of art.

Topps Opening Day: Kicking off each new season with optimism, Topps Opening Day celebrates the pageantry of baseball’s start with photo variations, framed inserts and parallel styles. While first-year standouts get attention, cards like uniswatches tracking special milestones for Aaron Judge or franchise holdovers like Mookie Betts attract plenty of interest as well. Parallel highlights are Red #/25, Atomic Green #/10 and 1/1 Printing Plates marking true one-of-a-kind collectibles perfect for team sets.

In summary, 2023 Topps retail and hobby products offer a wealth of coveted rookie cards, stars of both present and past, parallels spanning various numberings, and inserts highlighting milestones – all packaged in imaginative designs emulating eras of baseball’s storied history. With so much to chase across different price points, there is no shortage of exciting cardboard for collectors this season from the prominent brand that is Topps. The above cards showcase some of the standout finds to be on the hunt for during the year ahead in the baseball card collecting hobby.

BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL 2023 BEST CARDS

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The 2023 baseball card season is shaping up to be another exciting one for collectors. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez continuing to break out and veterans like Albert Pujols chasing major milestones, there will be no shortage of cards that could become highly valuable in the years to come. Let’s take a look at some of the top cards to keep an eye out for as the 2023 season gets underway.

Julio Rodriguez Rookie Cards: The Mariners rookie sensation had an incredible debut campaign in 2022 that was capped off with an All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger award. Rodriguez looks poised for stardom and his rookie cards, especially autographs and memorabilia cards, could appreciate significantly over the next few years if he continues on his current trajectory. Look for his flagship rookie cards in Topps, Bowman, and Panini to be at the top of many collectors’ wish lists. Prices on his 2021 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto Refractor have already started to skyrocket after his breakout season.

Bobby Witt Jr. Rookie Cards: Like Rodriguez the previous year, Witt had a phenomenal rookie season in 2022 that lived up to the hype after being a top prospect. He made the All-Star team and finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting. His 2021 Topps Chrome Update Yellow Refractor Auto is considered one of the top rookie cards of the year so far. Witt looks to be a perennial All-Star and if he does, his rookie cards could be worth a small fortune down the road.

Adley Rutschman Rookie Cards: After a few years of anticipation, Rutschman finally made his major league debut with the Orioles in 2022 and showed why he was the top prospect in baseball. While he may have a quieter season statistically playing for Baltimore, the hype around Rutschman is still huge. If he becomes the franchise cornerstone the O’s hope for, look for his already pricey rookie cards to keep increasing in value long-term.

Oneil Cruz Rookie Cards: Cruz made a huge splash in his rookie season with the Pirates thanks to his towering home runs and elite speed and defense as a 6’7″ shortstop. He brings a rare physical profile and exciting tools to the table. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto Refractor is a must-own for Pirates collectors and those who recognize his superstar potential. Even on a losing Pirates team, Cruz could put himself firmly on the map of future stars in 2023.

Rookie Pitchers: 2023 may feature some highly coveted rookie pitchers, including Druw Jones (Braves), Jackson Holliday (Orioles), and Brock Porter (Rangers). All three were top-5 overall picks in the 2022 draft and have huge upside if they can develop their talents in the pros. Keep an eye out for their inaugural pro cards in Bowman and Topps products next year.

Shohei Ohtani Cards: After back-to-back AL MVP awards, Ohtani has firmly established himself as the face of baseball. His cards have seen massive jumps in value but still have room to appreciate given his unique two-way talents and marketability. Collectors will be chasing autographs, memorabilia cards, and parallels of his 2021 Topps flagship and Chrome cards that could end up as the most valuable modern issues.

Albert Pujols Chase for 700 HRs: Pujols entered 2023 just four home runs shy of the 700 career home run milestone. Any of his cards, especially from the 2023 season, could gain prestige and demand from collectors if he is able to reach the historic plateau. Look for parallels and autographs of his 2023 Topps cards to be highly sought after by Cardinals fans and those following Pujols’ chase for history.

Aaron Judge Contract Year: As the reigning AL MVP and single-season home run king, all eyes will be on Judge in 2023, his last season before free agency. How he performs could shape his future earnings in a massive contract. His 2023 Topps cards, especially numbered parallels and autographs, may be some of the best investments for collectors given the spotlight on Judge this season.

Rookie Pitchers: 2023 may feature some highly coveted rookie pitchers, including Druw Jones (Braves), Jackson Holliday (Orioles), and Brock Porter (Rangers). All three were top-5 overall picks in the 2022 draft and have huge upside if they can develop their talents in the pros. Keep an eye out for their inaugural pro cards in Bowman and Topps products next year.

Vintage Cards: While the shine of modern rookies attracts much of the attention, proven vintage cards from the sport’s early years remain a reliable store of value for savvy collectors. High-grade examples of iconic stars like Mickey Mantle, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth and more can usually be resold for a profit given the rarity of perfectly preserved older cards. 2023 may see continued strength in the vintage market as values hold firm.

As always in the collecting world, on-field performance and career milestones will be what ultimately drive long-term demand and appreciation for individual players’ cards. But for those looking to make smart investments, focusing on today’s emerging stars and those chasing history provides the best chances of profiting down the road. The 2023 season is primed to produce many such cards.

PANINI USA BASEBALL 2023 BEST CARDS

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The 2023 Panini USA Baseball trading card season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent history with several highly anticipated rookie cards and additional inserts that are creating a buzz among collectors. While the full checklist won’t be revealed until closer to the product release dates throughout 2023, there are already some big names and potential gems that collectors are keeping a close eye on.

One of the most anticipated sets of the upcoming year will be 2023 Panini USA Baseball Diamond Kings, which is expected to feature rookie cards of several top prospects expected to make their MLB debuts in 2023 or have breakout seasons. At the top of many collectors’ want lists are cards featuring Seattle Mariners pitching phenom George Kirby, Detroit Tigers slugger Spencer Torkelson, and Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Xavier Edwards. All three were top-10 picks in their respective draft classes who have excelled in the minors and appear MLB-ready. Their rookie cards in Diamond Kings are likely to receive a lot of attention.

Another big name to watch is Dodgers outfielder Miguel Vargas. The 21-year-old had a strong 2022 season splitting time between Double-A and Triple-A, slashing .319/.382/.496 with 15 home runs and an .878 OPS over 116 games. He made his MLB debut in September and is expected to compete for a roster spot in 2023. His first MLB card release will be highly sought after. Additional rookies that could debut in 2023 like Baltimore’s Gunnar Henderson and Toronto’s Gabriel Moreno also have the chance at valuable rookie releases.

Of course, collectors will also be on the hunt for rookie cards from the stacked 2023 MLB Draft class headlined by prospects like Druw Jones, Brock Porter, and Jackson Holliday. While those won’t arrive until late in 2023 or 2024, nabbing their first cardboard could pay dividends down the road. Jones in particular has drawn comparisons to his father, five-time All-Star Andruw Jones, and possesses a rare mix of tools that could make him a true five-tool star.

In addition to rookies, Panini USA Baseball is known to include popular parallels, short prints, autographs, and memorabilia cards that add to the excitement. Memorable inserts from previous years like Franchise Feats, Diamond Icons, and Diamond Club have become fan favorites. For 2023, collectors are hopeful Panini will produce new, creative inserts highlighting the sports’ legends, top performances, and more. With the abundance of talented young players emerging, there is no shortage of possibilities.

Retired player cards also remain popular targets. This could bode well for 2023 releases featuring stars wrapping up their careers like Albert Pujols, Miguel Cabrera, and Yadier Molina. Even veterans who don’t officially retire could receive increased attention as collectors anticipate their final season, such as Clayton Kershaw and Justin Verlander. Nostalgic collectors may seek out hits of all-time greats too, whether contemporary legends like Mike Trout, max Scherzer, or career milestone chasers like Adrian Beltre, Ichiro Suzuki, and Adam Wainwright.

The Memorabilia side of USA Baseball also delivers excitement. Rare 1/1 patches and autographs of star players constantly draw high prices in the secondary market. A true game-used jersey piece of a current All-Star or Hall of Famer can easily fetch hundreds or thousands. Even promo or on-card autos hold value long-term. New uniforms and special event patches from the World Baseball Classic, MLB All-Star Game, or playoff runs create memorable relic cards each year too.

Last but not least, the year’s big non-sport releases like 2023 Archives and Topps Finest are always destinations for the most desirable parallels, autographs, and memorabilia hits. Archives in particular shines with its vintage-style design paying homage to retired greats, while Finest flexes the ‘hit or miss’ mantra with its lavish refractors, 1/1s, and dual-signed memorabilia cards that break the bank. Both sets serve as high-end hunting grounds that potentially yield career-definers.

The 2023 Panini USA Baseball season offers a wealth of potential gems for collectors across the spectrum. With a new crop of elite prospects breaking out, star veterans wrapping up careers, and the ever-popular inserts, parallels, and serial numbered hits – there will be no shortage of intriguing chase cards. For those able to crack highly-touted products like Diamond Kings, Archives, and Finest, the rewards of landing a true future blue-chip rookie or one-of-one relic could make for memories to last a lifetime. The combinations are endless, making it one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory.

2023 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year from card manufacturer Topps. As with previous Heritage sets, the 2023 edition pays homage to the design and style of baseball cards from the late 1960s. Topps Heritage has become a fan-favorite among collectors due to its retro design and focus on highlighting some of the game’s biggest stars and top prospects.

Some of the key things collectors can expect from the 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set include:

Design inspired by 1968 Topps cards. The 2023 Heritage cards will feature design elements directly pulled from the 1968 Topps design, including team logo designs, borders, fonts, and photo styles. This includes the classic orange and white color scheme.

525 total base cards. The 2023 Topps Heritage set base checklist will feature 525 total base cards, highlighting players from both the American and National Leagues. This includes both active players and prospects.

Parallels and inserts. In addition to the base cards, collectors can expect to find various parallels and insert cards throughout packs and boxes. This includes popular parallels like Gold Foil, Rainbow Foil, Negative, and Refractor variants that add to the retro aesthetic. Specialty inserts focusing on milestones, accomplishments and more will also be present.

Autograph and memorabilia cards. Like recent Heritage releases, the 2023 edition will include autographed and memorabilia cards of star players mixed throughout cases. Redemption cards can also be redeemed for hit opportunities. These chase cards add excitement for breakers and high-end collectors.

Rookies and prospects. While focusing heavily on current MLB talent, Topps Heritage also spotlights some of the game’s top prospects and rookie cards each year. The 2023 set is expected to feature cards of players like Bobby Witt Jr., Julio Rodriguez, Adley Rutschman and more who made impacts in 2022.

MLB licensing. As an officially licensed MLB product, Topps Heritage cards in 2023 will feature all active players along with accurate team logos and uniforms from this past season. Players no longer active will be included with vintage team affiliations as well.

Varied release formats. In addition to traditional wax packs and boxes, Topps Heritage is made available in a variety of formats including blasters, hangers, jumbo packs and specialty releases. This helps the product find many different collector audiences.

High secondary values. Due to the popularity of the Heritage line and retro design each year, even base cards from recent sets have retained strong secondary market values. Top rookie cards and hits hold some of the highest prices in the modern collecting landscape. This makes Heritage a sound investment for many collectors.

Some key things to watch for as the 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card release approaches and following its public debut include:

Checklist and design reveals. Topps slowly releases information on the checklist, design elements and product formats leading up to the official release. This drummed up hype among the collector base.

Early release dates. In recent years, Topps Heritage has seen select early release events, pre-sales and breaks surface products and hits ahead of the general public on-sale date. This allows a sneak peek at the checklist.

Rookie cards to watch. Based on their 2022 MLB performances, some of the top rookie cards to target from Heritage 2023 include Oneil Cruz, Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II from the Pirates, Braves and Astros respectively.

Autograph checklist. Information on the specific players featured in the autograph and memorabilia checklist is a major reveal. Chase cards can include prospects, veterans and HOFers.

Parallel odds. Details on the print runs and odds of pulling popular parallels like negative, gold and rainbow variants impacts their collector demand. Limited parallels hold top values.

Initial release prices. While MSRP for wax packs and boxes remains reasonable, initial secondary market prices for sealed 2023 Topps Heritage products and hits will be higher until supply meets demand. Prices typically stabilize after a few months.

Grading popularity. Like most modern retro releases, many key rookies, parallels and autographs from the 2023 Topps Heritage set are expected to be professionally graded at a high rate to preserve surfaces and enhance values long term.

The retro design and high-end rookies and hits have made Topps Heritage one of the most popular and valuable modern baseball card releases in recent years. With each year’s checklist paying homage to a new vintage design, the 2023 edition is sure to be a highly anticipated release for collectors this upcoming spring and summer. Between the classic look, top young talent and investment potential, Topps Heritage continues to capture the nostalgia and excitement that makes card collecting such an enduring hobby.