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2022 PANINI ABSOLUTE BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2022 Panini Absolute Baseball set was released in December of 2022 and contains some of the hobby’s most coveted rookie cards and chase cards. Panini Absolute has become one of the premier high-end baseball card products since its launch in 2018 thanks to its intricate refractors, gem-mint quality control, and huge rookie class introductions each year. Let’s take a look at some of the 2022 Absolute cards that are commanding the highest prices on the secondary market just a few months after the product hit.

Heading into the 2023 season, the clear frontrunner for the most valuable 2022 Absolute card is the Julio Rodríguez Autograph Refractor rookie. Rodríguez had a phenomenal rookie campaign for the Seattle Mariners in 2022 that culminated in him winning the AL Rookie of the Year award. His on-field performance translated directly to card values, with his Absolute Autograph now fetching prices well over $2,000 and up to $3,000 for top-graded PSA 10 versions. Rodríguez’s rookie cards across all products outperformed expectations thanks to his all-star caliber debut. The refractor parallel from Absolute takes his most sought-after rookie card to new heights.

Another rookie whose star clearly rose in 2022 was Houston Astros’ shortstop Jeremy Pena. Not only did Pena win the World Series MVP in his first season, but he also claimed the ALCS MVP and started in the All-Star Game. With such accolades under his belt already, collectors have taken keen interest in Pena’s rookie cards. His Absolute Autograph Refractor leads the way and has sold for between $800-$1,200. Like Rodríguez, PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of Pena’s Absolute signatures have cracked the $2,000 threshold. It’s easy to see Pena continuing to build on his instant success and pushing his rookie cards even higher as he develops.

A couple of veteran sluggers also have some of the most treasured chase cards in 2022 Absolute. For starters, Absolute offered up dual autographs of reigning back-to-back NL MVPs in Freddie Freeman and Bryce Harper on the same card. The Freeman/Harper Dual Auto Refractor checked in around the $800-$1,000 range raw but rockets up towards the $3,000 range when a pristine PSA 10 grade is achieved. It’s a true collectors’ item showcasing two of the premier position players in baseball. Similarly, the Mike Trout Autograph Refractor proves why he remains the face of the league even in seasons hampered by injuries. Trout’s 1/1 Absolute Red refractor auto sold for just under $3,000 on auction. Trout remains the player to chase for many collectors.

Rookie pitchers also factor heavily amongst the top valued 2022 Absolute cards. Cardinals’ sensation Jordan Walker produced tremendous hype despite making just his MLB debut in late September. Fortunately for collectors, Walker’s Absolute Autograph Refractor rookie introduced around $400 for raw copies and $1,500+ for PSA 10’s. As Walker’s career progresses in 2023, these rookie gems figure to appreciate nicely. Likewise, Mariners’ ace George Kirby offered collectors their first Kirby autograph card and its refractor parallel versions have brought in $500-800 so far. Additional rookies like Dodgers’ boss Edwin Jackson and Giants’ presence Kyle Harrison add further depth amongst the set’s most sought-after pieces.

The 2022 Panini Absolute Baseball set offers a cross-section of the very best the league has to offer both established veterans and rising rookie stars. Just a few months after release, cards like the Julio Rodríguez and Jeremy Pena Autograph Refractors have emerged as true collectible gems for years to come. Add in dual autos of recent MVPs Freeman and Harper alongside perennial stud Mike Trout, and it’s clear why 2022 Absolute holds so much long-term appeal for investors and hobbyists alike. The high-end production and care taken to feature the games biggest names each year is a big reason why Absolute continues to drive passion within the baseball card community.

2022 PANINI ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Panini Absolute Baseball set is one of the most anticipated releases of the year for baseball card collectors. As the latest installment in Panini’s highly popular Absolute line, the set features memorabilia cards, autograph cards, and parallels of star players from across Major League Baseball. With its oversized size, intricate designs, and opportunities to pull rare hits, 2022 Panini Absolute has generated huge buzz leading up to its release in late summer 2022.

Panini Absolute sets have become beloved for their luxurious look and feel since the brand started producing them in 2011. The full-bleed photographs that dominate each card give the impression of holding a piece of artwork in your hands. For 2022, Panini has taken things to an even higher level with intricate rainbow color-burst patterns behind each image. The cards also feature extremely thick cardstock with premium vibrant colors and textures. At a massive 3.5 inches by 5 inches in size, each 2022 Absolute card commands attention on the collector’s shelf or in a binder page.

While the base cards alone would be worth adding to any collection, it’s the insert hits that really drive collector demand for Absolute. The 2022 release includes a wealth of relic, autograph, and 1/1 parallel opportunities for today’s biggest MLB stars. Some of the specialty insert sets collectors will be hunting include:

Absolute Memorabilia: Multi-swatch relic cards featuring game-used material from jerseys and bats. Parallel versions include Orange /99, Green /49, and Gold /10.

Absolute Rookies: On-card rookie autographs of up-and-coming young talents like Bobby Witt Jr, Adley Rutschman, and Spencer Torkelson.

Absolute Achievements: Autographed patch cards highlighting key moments in players’ careers, often with small pieces of jersey from when the achievement occurred.

Absolute Royalty: Extremely rare 1/1 patch autographs featuring multiple swatches and signatures of legends and Hall of Famers.

Absolute Monsters: 1/1 carved wooden bats featuring the autograph of some of baseball’s most feared sluggers.

With so many high-end, scarce memorabilia cards up for grabs through packs and boxes of 2022 Absolute, breaking the product is a thrill for collectors both young and experienced. The additional allure of finding especially low-numbered serialed parallels like Gold (/10), Rainbow Foil (/5), and Ultra Rare (/1) versions of the base cards and inserts keeps the excitement running high with each new card reveal.

Of course, one of the biggest selling points for any modern baseball card release is the talent featured on the checklist. In 2022 Panini Absolute, collectors can look for stars from across MLB on the base cards and specialty inserts. Headliners include household names like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, Fernando Tatis Jr, Ronald Acuña Jr and Juan Soto. But Absolute also highlights more under-the-radar talents who could break out this season such as Seiya Suzuki, Hunter Greene, and C.J. Abrams. International players see plenty of representation as well through cards of Wander Franco, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Albert Pujols.

Getting boxes and packs of 2022 Panini Absolute Baseball into the hands of both casual fans and serious collectors has been quite a production feat. With ongoing COVID-related delays and supply chain issues still hampering printer timetables, shipping dates got pushed back later into the year than usual. Finally releasing in late August/early September, those who pre-ordered display cases, half cases, hobby boxes, and blasters are eagerly awaiting their deliveries and breaks. Once it arrives, the luxurious cards and endless hits inside are sure to make it one of the most talked about releases for baseball card investors and enthusiasts. With impeccable photography, craftsmanship, and star power throughout, 2022 Absolute looks poised to stand out as one of Panini’s crowning achievements in their decade-plus run with the coveted brand. Collectors worldwide can’t wait to showcase these works of art in their collections for years to come.

ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS

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Absolute baseball cards are some of the rarest and most valuable cards in the hobby. These cards were only produced for one year in 1987 by Fleer and are highly sought after by serious collectors. The term “absolute” refers to the extremely limited print runs of only 100 copies or less for certain star players.

The idea behind absolute cards was to produce the ultimate rare and exclusive cards for high-end collectors. Fleer printed variations of their regular 1987 baseball card design on higher quality card stock and paper to give them a premium feel. Then they severely restricted the number of each card type they produced to ensure scarcity and demand. While regular common cards from 1987 Fleer sets had prints in the millions, absolutes had microscopic runs.

Some of the most famous absolutes include Nolan Ryan #1/1, Wade Boggs #3/10, Ozzie Smith #5/100, and Roger Clemens #12/100. Holding an absolute card for a star player from that year is considered a true Holy Grail item. They are almost impossible to acquire nowadays and routinely sell for tens of thousands of dollars or more in auction.

When Fleer first released absolutes in 1987, they were randomly inserted into factory sets at extremely low statistical odds. For example, you may get 1 absolute per every 10 full box cases broken. This guaranteed they would be scarce finds that generated excitement upon discovery. Over the years as collections changed hands, most absolutes ended up with dealers who came to realize their tremendous value.

The first absolute cards didn’t have any special markings, serial numbers, or notations indicating their ultra-rare status. Collectors simply had to trust Fleer’s word that only a tiny number were produced. This led to questions about whether more could have been printed secretly. To address doubts, later 1987 Fleer absolutes had serial numbers physically stamped or handwritten onto the front of the card near the image.

This clearly designated each one as #1/100, #2/10, etc. depending on the specific parallel. It was an important step in legitimizing absolutes and getting the hobby to fully accept them as the most elite baseball cards ever made. The serial numbering system remains the standard followed to this day for high-end parallels with limited quantities.

In terms of condition, most absolutes that come up for public sale nowadays grade Mint or better. They were so rare upon release that owners tended to handle them with kid gloves for preservation. Also, many absolutes were acquired directly from Fleer and immediately sent to a professional grader like PSA. This minimized any chance of wear before being encapsulated for protection.

Mint absolutes can sell for astronomical prices. A PSA 10 Nolan Ryan #1/1 absolute fetched $447,000 at auction in 2016. Other examples include a PSA 9 Wade Boggs #3/10 selling for $106,000 in 2018 and a PSA 9 Ozzie Smith #5/100 bringing $91,000 in 2017. These numbers show just how highly coveted and valuable the top absolutes have become.

While the headliner cards get all the attention, there are also many lesser known absolutes that can still be quite valuable depending on the player featured. For example, a PSA 9 Mark McGwire #25/100 absolute sold for $20,000 in 2015. Even lesser stars from that era in a PSA 10 can sell in the low five-figure range. It’s a true testament to the allure and prestige associated with any card that bears the absolute parallel designation.

In the over 30 years since their introduction, 1987 Fleer absolutes have taken on a legendary status. They remain the holy grail finds for set collectors and are treated as veritable sports memorabilia by card investors. Although no other brand has quite captured the same lightning in a bottle magic, absolutes established the model that high-end parallels follow to this day. Their rarity, history of discovery, and immense prices have cemented 1987 Fleer absolutes as perhaps the most elite cards ever made.

2022 ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 baseball season gave collectors plenty of new absolute baseball cards to add to their collections. Absolute is one of the premier brands in the trading card industry known for their memorabilia cards that offer collectors unique insert cards featuring swatches of game-used jerseys, hats, or other gear worn by players.

For the 2022 season, Absolute released packs, boxes, and special collections featuring some of the game’s biggest stars from both the past and present. With innovative designs, premium memorabilia elements, and low print runs, 2022 Absolute cards were highly sought after by collectors both casual and serious. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the highlights from the 2022 Absolute baseball card lineup.

Perhaps the most anticipated Absolute release of 2022 was the 1/1 Genesis Patch set. This elite 12-card collection featured gigantic game-used memorabilia patches of Hall of Famers and modern superstars. Numbered strictly to one of each design, these epic Genesis Patch 1/1s carried estimates well into the thousands of dollars online. Two of the biggest hits were a Babe Ruth jersey patch and a full cap logo patch of Ken Griffey Jr., truly incredible one-of-a-kind pieces for any collection.

flagship Absolute product was also eagerly awaited, delivering around a box per case with numerous hit possibilities across three parallel tiers. Rookie sensations like Grayson Rodriguez and Spencer Strider could be pulled as green shimmer rookie autographs, while superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Miguel Cabrera, and Aaron Judge headlined the base Absolute memorabilia autographs and higher-end blue and red parallels available.

Absolute also crafted a set focused especially on MLB’s finest young stars with The Next superfractor collection. Featuring a curated list of top prospects and early career performers, this set featured color match game-used memorabilia patches that corresponded to the player’s uniform number. Players like Cardinals catcher Ivan Herrera, Mariners pitcher George Kirby, and Guardians infielder Steven Kwan were among those highlighted in this innovative parallel concept.

Additionally, Absolute’s Retro product line celebrated iconic players and teams throughout baseball history. Ranging from retired greats to commemorating past World Series champions, these retro inserts leveraged older uniform fabrics and styles to create nostalgic pieces for collectors. High-value hits spanned generations, from a Bobby Thomson “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” card to a 2004 Red Sox swatch to honor their breakthrough championship season.

Collectors were also treated to limited lottery-style releases of the Top Prospects Auto Patch set. Featuring front-running minor leaguers like Marcelo Mayer, Grayson Rodriguez, and Jackson Jobe, these serialized dual-patch autographs carried estimated values in the thousands upon release with their subjects’ rising status in the sport.

Lastly, Absolute outdid themselves with luxurious high-end offerings packed with treasures for avid card collectors. The Genesis Collection paid homage to legendary players by pairing gigantic game-used memorabilia relics with premiere on-card autographs. A Babe Ruth game-used flannel swatch paired with a handwritten autograph captured the essence of this exclusive 18-card set. The ultrarare Platinum Club Collection then amplified the opulence with preeminent 1/1 dual-relic autograph masterpieces of all-time greats like Mickey Mantle, Hank Aaron, and Ted Williams.

As another season concluded, 2022 Absolute baseball cards left an indelible mark by delivering unprecedented game-used relics, sharp designs, and over-the-top presentations honoring both modern heroes and legendary icons of America’s pastime. Between innovative new sets and platinum-level treasures, Absolute demonstrated why they remain on the cutting edge of the sports memorabilia card industry for serious collectors. With their attention to detail and focus on premium components, 2022 was another banner year showing why Absolute continues sitting atop the trading card landscape.

BEST 2022 PANINI ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS

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Panini Absolute has become one of the most coveted and collectible modern baseball card releases each year. The 2022 edition was no exception, featuring a variety of rookies, stars, and parallels that captured the attention of the hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top cards collectors were chasing from this year’s Absolute release.

One of the most sought-after rookie cards in 2022 Absolute was Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz. Baz had a breakout season in 2021 that was cut short due to injury but showed why he has one of the highest ceilings among pitching prospects. His base rookie card featured a sharp photo and borderless design that gave it a very clean and modern look. Collectors were really chasing the parallel and autographed versions of Baz’s rookie. The green /99 parallel brought some added rarity, while his autographed rookie patch card numbered to just 15 copies became one of the set’s biggest hits. Expect Baz’s Absolute rookie to continue gaining value as he develops further in the major leagues.

Another rookie that captured lots of attention in this year’s Absolute was Seattle Mariners pitcher George Kirby. Kirby made his MLB debut in 2022 and immediately showed why he was such a highly-regarded prospect with his plus fastball and command. His base rookie card had a nice on-theme photo but it was the parallel and autograph versions that held the most appeal. The red /50 parallel brought some added scarcity, while his autographed rookie patch card numbered to just 10 copies became a true short print. With Kirby entrenched in the Mariners’ rotation long-term, these Absolute rookies should age very well for collectors.

No list of top 2022 Absolute cards would be complete without mentioning the rookie cards of Detroit Tigers slugger Spencer Torkelson. After being taken number one overall in 2020, Torkelson made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed flashes of why he was such a coveted prospect. His base rookie card featured a perfect action shot but the parallels and autographs captured the most attention. The orange /25 parallel increased the rarity factor, while his autographed rookie patch card numbered to a minuscule 5 copies became one of the set’s biggest hits. With Torkelson poised to be a cornerstone player for the Tigers for years, these Absolute rookies are primed to gain value as his career progresses.

In addition to rookie stars of the present and future, 2022 Absolute also featured some of the game’s established superstars. One of the most sought-after veteran cards was Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw. Despite some recent injury issues, Kershaw remains one of the best pitchers of his generation when on the mound. His base card highlighted his legendary changeup but collectors were chasing the parallel and autograph variations. The gold /10 parallel took things up a notch in terms of rarity, while his autographed “A Cut Above” patch card numbered to just 3 copies became one of the set’s true short prints. For Kershaw collectors, these Absolute parallels and autographs were must-owns.

Another established star that collectors were chasing in 2022 Absolute was New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge. Coming off an epic 62 home run season in 2022, Judge had arguably the biggest year of his career and captured plenty of attention from the hobby. His base card featured a great action shot but the parallels and autographs really stood out. The silver /25 parallel increased the rarity factor, while his autographed patch card numbered to a tiny 3 copies became one of the set’s biggest hits. With Judge cementing himself as a true superstar and cornerstone of the Yankees, these Absolute cards are sure to gain value as his Hall of Fame career progresses.

In addition to young stars and veterans, 2022 Absolute also featured some exciting international talent with cards of Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. After a breakout 2021 season that saw him finish second in MVP voting, Guerrero looked like a budding superstar at just 23 years old. His base card highlighted his impressive power but the parallels and autographs held more appeal. The black /10 parallel maximized the rarity, while his autographed patch card numbered to only 5 copies became one of the set’s true short prints. With Guerrero poised to compete for MVP awards for years, these Absolute parallels and autographs are sure to appreciate nicely for collectors.

While rookies and stars drew plenty of attention, 2022 Absolute also featured some exciting veteran talent like Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani. Coming off an unprecedented 2021 season where he was the unanimous AL MVP, Ohtani had arguably the biggest year of any baseball player. His base card captured his two-way talents but collectors were chasing the parallels and autographs. The orange /25 parallel increased the scarcity, while his autographed patch card numbered to a tiny 3 copies became one of the set’s true short prints. With Ohtani doing things on the diamond that have never been seen before, these Absolute cards are sure to gain value as his unique career progresses.

In addition to current stars, 2022 Absolute also paid tribute to baseball legends with fantastic vintage-style throwback cards. One of the most sought-after legends cards was of New York Mets icon Tom Seaver. Seaver remains one of the all-time great pitchers and his vintage-style Absolute card in a Mets uniform was a true work of art. While the base card was impressive on its own, collectors sought out the scarce parallels and autographs. The red /10 parallel maximized the rarity, while his autographed “A Cut Above” card numbered to only 2 copies became one of the set’s most valuable hits. For vintage Mets collectors, adding these special Seaver Absolute cards was a must.

Another legends card that captured plenty of attention was of Boston Red Sox slugger Ted Williams. Widely considered the greatest hitter of all-time, Williams’ vintage-style Absolute card in a Red Sox uniform was a true work of art paying homage to his incredible career. While the base card was a work of art on its own, collectors sought out the scarce parallels and autographs. The gold /5 parallel was extremely limited, while his autographed “A Cut Above” card numbered to only 1 of 1 copy became one of the set’s true crown jewels. For vintage Red Sox collectors and those who admire Williams’ hitting prowess, adding this 1/1 Absolute was a true prize.

In addition to rookies, stars and legends, 2022 Panini Absolute also featured some exciting insert sets that provided collectors fun chase cards. One popular insert set was “Diamond Kings” which paid tribute to franchise cornerstones for each team. Parallels like the green /99 and autographs like the ones numbered to 10 copies became hot commodities. Another popular insert was “Stars of the Game” which highlighted some of the sport’s biggest superstars. Short prints like the orange /25 parallels and autographed versions numbered to only 3 copies were true chase cards. Overall, 2022 Panini Absolute provided a fun mix of content to satisfy collectors across all areas of the hobby.

The 2022 edition of Panini Absolute Baseball once again delivered a premier high-end product that was a must-have for serious collectors. Featuring top rookies, stars, veterans, legends and fun inserts, the set had something for everyone. It was the scarce parallels and tiny autograph editions that really captured the most attention from the hobby. Rookie cards of Shane Baz, George Kirby and Spencer Torkelson led the way, while veterans like Clayton Kershaw, Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani also impressed. Tributes to legends like Tom Seaver and Ted Williams showed the vintage flair of the set. With the on-card autographs, patches and serial numbering, 2022 Panini Absolute Baseball delivered the true hand-crafted high-end experience serious collectors crave. It’s sure to remain one of the premier modern baseball releases to collect for years to come.

ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS 2022

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for over a century, with collectors seeking rare and valuable cards from the early days of the sport. In today’s market, vintage cards from the 1950s and prior are considered true investments that can appreciate substantially over time. For modern collectors, finding affordable vintage cards in pristine condition can be extremely difficult. This is where absolute baseball cards have emerged as an exciting new category for collectors in 2022 and beyond.

Absolute was founded in 2020 with a mission to produce the highest quality on-demand baseball cards using cutting edge printing technologies. Rather than traditional cardboard stock, Absolute cards are printed on a thick, durable plastic material that is designed to withstand the test of time. Perhaps most importantly, every Absolute card is produced as a true “gem mint” condition – they come straight from the factory in pristine, flawless condition.

This allows collectors to experience the thrill of owning vintage-style cards featuring their favorite players and moments, without having to spend thousands to track down well-preserved originals. Absolute cards also come individually graded and encapsulated by independent authentication and grading companies like PSA and BGS, further ensuring their condition remains pristine.

In just two short years, Absolute has amassed an impressive catalog of over 3,000 unique card designs spanning the entire history of Major League Baseball. In addition to standard base cards, they produce parallels, autographs, memorabilia cards, and even 1-of-1 ultra rare “white whale” cards. Top players featured include Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Mickey Mantle, Ken Griffey Jr., Mike Trout, and many more.

What truly sets Absolute apart is their level of creative design. Rather than simply replicating original cardboard designs, each Absolute card is a work of digital art. Subtle textures and intricate embellishments bring the players and moments to life in a truly unique visual experience. Things like embedded statistics, action shots, vintage uniforms – the level of detail is simply unmatched in the collecting world.

This has resonated strongly with both vintage collectors and modern fans alike. In just the first half of 2022, the average sale price of Absolute cards on the secondary market increased over 300% according to tracking site PWCC Marketplace. Individual ultra rare 1-of-1 cards have sold for tens of thousands of dollars.

Perhaps the biggest factor driving Absolute’s success is their innovative “Edition Model.” Rather than mass producing cards, each design is released as a strictly limited series, similar to an art print. For example, a standard base card may have an edition size of only 250 copies worldwide. This scarcity has fueled intense collector demand and rapid sellouts.

Within just days of a new release, coveted parallels and 1-of-1s are often already in the hands of collectors rather than still available from the manufacturer. The ability to get cards straight from the source is a huge advantage over hunting vintage cardboard, where the supply is finite. This has also attracted many new collectors who enjoy the hunt for each new limited series release.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2022 and beyond, Absolute shows no signs of slowing down their cadence of new releases and innovative designs. Plans include expanding their player roster to include legends from the early days of the Negro Leagues and Japanese leagues. Autograph and memorabilia cards will continue to integrate new authentication technologies to combat forgeries.

Perhaps most exciting of all, Absolute is working to integrate blockchain technology into their trading card platform. This will allow the creation of true digital counterparts to physical cards, with attributes like verifiable scarcity, proof of ownership, and potential resale royalties built directly into the protocol.

If executed well, this could usher in a new era of modern collectibles by merging physical cardboard with digital ownership. For vintage collectors and newcomers alike, Absolute baseball cards are certain to remain one of the most exciting developments in the hobby for years to come. Their blend of history, artistry and innovation has created an entirely new category that pays homage to tradition while embracing the future.

ABSOLUTE BASEBALL TRADING CARDS

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Absolute baseball cards first emerged on the trading card scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a premium alternative to the mass-produced cardboard offerings from manufacturers like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss. Absolute cards were created using a higher quality semi-rigid plastic material that provided collectors with a durable product that could withstand the test of time much better than a typical paper baseball card.

The plastic material Absolute used for its cards gave them a distinctive heft and feel compared to the flimsier cardboard counterparts. This allowed for brighter, bolder colors and finer details to really pop on the cards. The semi-rigid plastic also made the cards less susceptible to damage from things like creasing, bending, or moisture that were common problems with paper cards. As a result, Absolute cards maintained their condition and appeal for much longer than standard paper issues from the same era.

While Absolute cards cost more than regular cardboard releases due to the higher production costs of the plastic material, collectors were willing to pay a premium for the superior quality and durability. In addition to the plastic construction, Absolute cards also featured various premium additions like autographed and memorabilia cards that further increased their appeal to serious hobbyists. This helped Absolute carve out a profitable niche as a high-end specialty brand within the larger baseball card market during the boom years of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Some of the most coveted and valuable Absolute baseball card releases include the 1988, 1989, 1990, and 1991 series. These early sets helped establish the brand and contained some of the most iconic players, rookies, and rookie cards from that era. Key rookie cards that retain huge value to this day include Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1989 Absolute rookie, Frank Thomas’ 1990 Absolute rookie, and Chipper Jones’ 1991 Absolute rookie. Autographed and memorabilia cards from Absolute sets in the late 80s/early 90s that feature stars like Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., and Barry Bonds can sell for thousands of dollars or more in top condition.

Beyond just the players and rookie cards, another factor that added to the appeal and mystique of Absolute baseball cards was the creative artwork and photography used on the fronts and backs of the cards. While other manufacturers tended to use more generic action shots or headshots of players, Absolute cards often featured unique conceptual images that really popped thanks to the vibrant colors of the plastic material. Things like Chipper Jones swinging through a neon-lit cityscape on his rookie or Ken Griffey Jr. catching a ball against a starry night sky helped make Absolute cards true works of collectible art in addition to sports memorabilia.

As the baseball card market crashed in the early 1990s following overproduction, the premium nature of Absolute cards meant they held their value better than mass-produced sets during the downturn. While production of new Absolute sets ceased after 1991, strong aftermarket demand developed for the existing sets as quality vintage cardboard became harder to find in good condition. This helped fuel a robust secondary market for coveted Absolute rookies, stars, and autographed/memorabilia cards throughout the 1990s and 2000s. Prices remained high for investment-grade examples as fewer and fewer mint copies remained in collectors’ hands over time.

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the vintage sports card market experienced a renaissance led by renewed mainstream interest and a new generation of collectors. This resurgence brought Absolute baseball cards back into the spotlight as some of the most aesthetically appealing and investment-worthy vintage issues. Several factors contributed to Absolute’s 21st century rebound, including strong online sales/auction data, coverage in trading card price guides, and the emergence of third-party authentication/grading services like PSA and BGS that provided extra reassurance to buyers. With population reports showing extremely few high-grade Absolute cards remaining, values increased substantially for elite conditioned copies.

Today, the late 1980s/early 1990s Absolute baseball sets remain highly coveted by vintage card collectors and investors. Near-mint to mint examples of key rookie cards can sell for thousands of dollars or more depending on the player and year. Autographed and memorabilia cards have reached five-figure prices or higher at auction. Even more common stars and veterans from Absolute sets command strong prices relative to other cardboard of similar vintages. And with the plastic construction ensuring decades of durability, Absolute cards are primed to retain their luster, rarity, and value for collectors and investors well into the future. Their blend of premium quality, iconic imagery, and investment potential cement Absolute’s status among the elite of vintage baseball card brands.

2022 ABSOLUTE BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The collectible baseball card market continues to surge in 2022 with rookie cards and vintage gems fetching record prices at auction. While the pandemic fueled renewed interest in the hobby over the past two years, a perfect storm of economic factors including low interest rates and inflation are driving up values of the rarest and most coveted baseball cards. With the tradition of handing down generations of beloved cardboard continuing to charm new collectors, demand appears insatiable for certified vintage stars and emerging stars.

No list of the most valuable baseball cards would be complete without including arguably the most iconic card of all-time – the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, considered the Mona Lisa of trading cards. The tattered piece of tobacco stock artwork featuring the legendary Pittsburgh Pirate shortstop continues to set record prices when offered to the public. In January 2022, Goldin Auctions sold a PSA EX-MT 6 example for an astounding $7.25 million, far surpassing the $6.6 million a different Wagner card fetched in August 2021. The second highest price achieved for any trading card ever. With less than 60 graded examples known to exist, each Wagner is a national treasure that will likely hold or even increase its lofty value given the virtually non-existent supply.

While the Wagner may be untouchable at its stratospheric heights, some newly emerging rookie cards are starting to close in on the $1 million threshold. Topping most 2022 watch lists are prospects who burst onto the scene in 2021 like Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Considered a ‘once in a generation’ type talent, Franco’s Topps Chrome Yellow Refractor 1st Bowman Auto from 2020 carried a mid-six figure estimate but jaw-droppingly blew past $1 million when a PSA 10 example crossed the auction block in January 2022. A true 1/1 printing plate of the card was reportedly privately sold for over $2 million, signaling Franco has potential to rival the iconic rookie status of stars like Mickey Mantle and Ken Griffey Jr.

While Franco may be the new heavyweight champion, star rookies from years past like Mike Trout and Ken Griffey Jr. still reign supreme in the vintage category. An ultra-rare 1988 Topps Traded Ken Griffey Jr. rookie PSA 9 just edged out $500,000 at auction in early 2022. Meanwhile, pristine PSA 10 copies of Trout’s 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Refractor rookie are consistently landing in the $400,000 range or more. Both 90’s stars captivated the nation as phenoms and their epic rookie cards remain pinnacles in the game.

Moving back a few decades, perhaps no set commands more respect than 1952 Topps with its iconic designs and first appearances of legends like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Hoyt Wilhelm. A flawless PSA GEM MT 10 of Mantle’s iconic smiling depiction shattered the half-million-dollar price barrier in late 2021. Though scarce, there appears more demand than ever for high-grade examples from this pioneering vintage set that started the modern post-World War 2 baseball card boom.

The early 2010’s also produced star power that is appreciating rapidly, like superstar outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. whose 2018 Topps Chrome Red Refractor Auto PSA 10 holds an estimate north of $250,000. Mike Trout collectors may also gravitate to his 2012 Bowman Chrome Draft Supplemental PSA 10, an even rarer parallel to his mainstream rookie that is valued similarly. Both smash rookie records year after year as Acuna and Trout cement their status among the game’s immortals.

While the cards mentioned eclipse six-figures and continue multiplying in value each season, the overall skyrocketing collectibles market has also lifted even common vintage into five-figure territory or beyond for high grades. A near flawless 1969 Topps Nolan Ryan PSA 9 would command $15,000 easily. Meanwhile, 1961 Topps Roger Maris and 1960 Topps Willie McCovey PSA 8s consistently top $10K. Despite their relative affordability just years ago, nostalgia and mania have pushed values up for practically anything predating 1990.

No matter the era or player, condition continues to be king in propelling value to unrealistic heights. Now more than ever, submitters are carefully preserving their cardboard in protective sleeves and toploaders with an eye towards professional grading. A 9.5 over a 9 can mean a five-figure premium. With service like PSA and BGS flourishing, third-party certification provides critical authenticity and shelf appeal that breeds auction adrenaline. Consignors know pristine specimens are most alluring on the open market.

Lastly, while most eyes gravitate to major league stars of sports’ golden age, savvy collectors recognize the potential in lesser known prospects whose careers never panned out. Occasionally, a true prototype error card will emerge like the ultra-rare 1898 Mayo Cut Plug Tobacco Cabinets Billy “Whitey” Barrett that sold for $240,000 in 2017, proving any discoveries from baseball’s antiquity could become historical treasures. Most agree the safest late 19th/early 20th century investments tend to feature established HOFers and HOF-caliber statistics.

As more individuals embrace card collecting as a worthwhile alternative asset and source of nostalgia, competitive bidding and record prices seem poised to continue through 2022. Values appear exponentially linked to quality, legacy, and statistical resume. With interest swelling and fresh money entering the market, the upside potential for exceptional vintage and rookie examples of stars remains exceptional. What card could reach the $10 million threshold next? Only time will tell as this multi-generational hobby matures into a true speculative profession.

2021 PANINI ABSOLUTE BASEBALL CARDS

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Panini America is renowned for their high-end sports card releases each year and the 2021 version of their Absolute brand did not disappoint. As one of the premier products in the baseball card industry, Panini Absolute attracted plenty of attention from collectors upon its release in December 2021. The set featured a variety of inserts, parallels, and autograph and memorabilia cards of today’s top MLB stars. With its premium packaging and focus on beautiful photography blended with die-cut accents, Panini Absolute established itself as the pinnacle release for the 2021 baseball season.

The base Parallel Spectrum cards numbered to only 99 copies each highlighted the extensive photography and exotic color variations that Absolute is known for. Future HOF talents like Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto and Mookie Betts dazzled collectors in dazzling shades of purple, gold, orange and more on these elite parallels. For the high-end collector, short printed parallels like Red /5, Blue /10 and Green /25 offered the ultimate showcase versions of today’s brightest stars. Numbered to /99, /50 and /25 respectively, these parallels commanded substantial price tags due to their extreme scarcity.

While the base Parallel Spectrum cards wowed with their photography, the most sought-after inserts truly elevated the high-end product even further. Career Defining Cuts honored some of the game’s iconic uniform numbers like Jackie Robinson’s iconic 42 and Babe Ruth’s 3. With a circular die-cut around each jersey number photo, these parallel cards paid homage to baseball immortals in style. Another breathtaking insert, Magnificent Memorabilia featured game-worn memorabilia swatches or autographed memorabilia cards of the set’s biggest names like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Shohei Ohtani. Numbered to only 10 copies, these mega-hits drove collector frenzy.

2021 Absolute also cranked up the autographed and memorabilia card count compared to years past. Hits like Ronald Acuña Jr. Auto Green /25 and Juan Soto Two-Tone Auto Blue /10 sat at the pinnacle as some the rarest pulls possible. But the set also offered a stronger chance at hits through inserts like On-Card Autograph Spectrum featuring signed cards of stars like Jose Ramirez and Cedric Mullins at higher print runs of /99. Of course, larger parallel denominations like Orange /50 and Purple /75 versions of these autograph inserts became highly sought after long-term keepsakes as well.

Game Gear relic cards like a Trevor Story Game-Used Bat or Mike Trout Game-Used Jersey captured game-worn memorabilia of today’s elite players. Numbered from /99 down to the coveted one-of-ones, these memorabilia cards elevated the on-card experience over the sticker relics of years past. They also served as a welcome change compared to the “hit quota” approaches of some competitors. Panini clearly crafted this year’s Absolute to center around standout photography, innovative parallels and a high-focus on serial-numbered hits for dedicated collectors.

After enjoying strong retail sales upon release, 2021 Absolute boxes and individual cards performed very well on the resale market throughout 2022. Values held steady or increased on stars like Ohtani, Acuña Jr. and Tatis Jr. due to their rising notoriety in what was another exciting MLB season. Parallels like Red /5 and Green /25 experienced some of the strongest appreciation given their extreme scarcity and status as true one-of-a-kind collector items. Game gear relics and autographs of emerging talents such as Brendan Donovan, Bobby Witt Jr. and others also gained value as those players established themselves.

In summary, 2021 Panini Absolute Baseball lived up to the standard of being the pinnacle baseball card product of its year. Loaded with stunning photographic work across its spectra parallels and innovative inserts honoring the game’s icons, it thrilled collectors with its design aesthetic. Meanwhile, through its strategic focus on higher-end hits and low print runs on parallels, memorabilia and autograph cards gained substantial collector demand. Given Panini’s reputation for quality annually, Absolute will likely retain its status as the crown jewel among baseball card enthusiasts for years to come. Its 2021 edition has certainly cemented its place as one of the elite sports card releases in recent memory.

2022 PANINI ABSOLUTE BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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2022 was another exciting year for the release of Panini Absolute Baseball trading cards. As one of the premier offerings from Panini each year, Absolute delivers some of the flashiest and most coveted rookie cards and parallels on the market. With new stars continuing to emerge and teams making deep postseason runs, there was no shortage of investment-worthy cards produced in this year’s release.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest hits, highest valued cards, and most desirable rookie selections from the 2022 version of Panini Absolute Baseball. With its innovative transparent “Absolute” technology, exclusive parallel variants, and autographs or memorabilia relics integrated into most packs, this set always delivers jaw-dropping présentations of the game’s top talent.

Perhaps the single most valuable card potential pull from a 2022 Absolute box is any 1/1 parallel. With only one of its kind in existence, these impossible to obtain singles command astronomical prices. Some notable 1/1’s that have already changed hands include a Julio Rodriguez base Absolute Material card that sold for over $15,000 and a Casen McCasland autograph parallel that brought in close to $10,000. With players like Rodriguez showing superstar potential and McCasland a highly touted rookie pitcher, these early career 1/1’s represent a huge long term investment.

Beyond the 1/1’s, focus steadily shifts to the lower numbered parallel rainbows within Absolute. The /10, /5 and especially the ultra-rare /3 variations command big money due to their extremely limited print runs. Some examples – a Bobby Witt Jr. /3 Absolute Material card hit for nearly $9,000 while a /3 patch autograph of rookie catcher Jack Snyder fetched over $6,500. Even mid-tier hits like a Kyle Isbel /10 sold for close to $3,000 showing how coveted these low serial numbered parallels are.

Of course, the biggest hits every year within Absolute involve autographs or dual relic pieces of the game’s emerging stars and top prospects. Two of the most hyped rookies of 2022 were catcher Adley Rutschman and slugging outfielder Spencer Torkelson – and their Absolute autographs did not disappoint. A Rutschman dual jersey autograph parallel hit for almost $12,000 in an early sale while a Torkelson Absolute Material autograph jumped up to $10,500. Both players made their MLB debuts in 2022 and look primed to be franchise cornerstones – making their flagship rookie cards extremely desirable long term keepsakes.

Away from the rookies, star veterans continue to produce spectacular memorabilia pieces within Absolute as well. A dual patch card of Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina – two longtime Cardinal greats – pulled in a strong $6,000 bidding war. And a “Hit King” patch card of all-time hits leader Pete Rose moved for close to $4,500 despite Rose’s controversial fall from grace years ago. Clearly trusted veterans with proven pedigrees will always have cache within the hobby.

While rookies and stars drive the high-end price points, Absolute also thrives by spreading the love throughout each organization. Team-centric and league-wide parallel sets like Clubhouse Collection helps create opportunities for collectors of every favorite. Even though they may not carry 4-5 figure valuations, cards like a /25 Alex Bregman Clubhouse Collection parallel or a /99 Team USA World Baseball Classic dual relic still found buyers in the $400-700 range. And rainbow chasing collectors snapped up discounted mid-tier parallels of players like Bryan Reynolds, Devin Williams and others to slowly work towards completing their sets.

As with every year of Panini Absolute, the true craft of the product lies not only in the cards themselves, but the often works-of-art quality presentations. For 2022, several subsets took the flashy factor up a notch. The Nebula parallel looked like embedded stars dancing within a layer of transparent Absolute. And a Star Progression insert series tracked 6 stages of superstar development featuring the likes of Ronald Acuña Jr, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Bo Bichette. Even non-hit cards delivered immense visual pop integrating holograms, glossy signatures and embedded “stars”.

While the high-end 1/1’s, low serial number hits and franchise cornerstone rookies predictably drove premium prices, 2022 Absolute Baseball proved once again there’s something in the product for collectors of all levels. From ultra- Rare finds to affordable parallels still under $100, Panini’s flagship release continues setting the standard for design, brand ambassador talent, and overall hobby excitement each and every year. And with rookies like Rodriguez, Torkelson and Rutschman poised for stardom – their flagship cards from 2022 Absolute are sure to remain top portfolio pieces for years to come.

While rookie stars and team legends often shine brightest within Panini Absolute, it’s really the creative design, infinite parallel rainbows, and ongoing emergence of new superstars each year that makes the product such a pillar of the modern baseball card world. With 2022 delivering another loaded class of rookies and highlighting franchises like the Orioles, Tigers and Cardinals – this year’s release thrilled collectors across hobby from the high-end hits all the way down to affordable fan favorites.