Tag Archives: collect

BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT IN 2023

Leave a reply

The new year brings with it a fresh crop of baseball cards to pursue for any collector. With another season of Major League Baseball on the horizon, 2023 promises to deliver exciting rookies and star players to chase. Whether you focus on the latest releases, vintage gems, or unique parallels and variations, here are some top baseball card recommendations to target in the new year.

Topps Series 1: Arguably the biggest and most anticipated baseball card release each year is Topps Series 1. The flagship set always features the biggest names and top rookies from the previous season. 2023 Topps Series 1 cards to watch for include rookie cards of Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman, Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, and Miami Marlins pitcher Max Meyer. Superstar cards of Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. will also be hot. This set is a must-have for any collection.

Topps Chrome: As a parallel version of Series 1, Topps Chrome uses chromium coating on the front of the cards for a glossy, eye-catching look. The Chrome parallels are usually short printed and command higher prices. Watch for Topps Chrome rookie cards of Rutschman, Kwan, and Meyer to be especially sought after and valuable. Other top Chrome cards include Ohtani, Soto, and Acuña.

Bowman Draft: Released in June, Bowman Draft focuses on the previous year’s amateur draft class and top international prospects. The set features prospects’ first pro cards before they make their MLB debuts. Names to watch for in 2023 Bowman Draft include high school shortstop Jackson Holliday (2021’s #1 overall pick), high school outfielder Dylan Lesko, and international prospects Lazaro Montes and Jean Ramirez. Early cards of these future stars could pay off down the road.

Topps Finest: As one of the high-end flagship releases, Topps Finest utilizes foil stamping, on-card autographs, and refractors to make for some of the most visually striking baseball cards on the market. Short printed parallels like the purple, orange, and green refractor patches can be big hits. Top rookies and stars in the 2023 Topps Finest set will be highly sought after.

Topps Archives: A nostalgic throwback set, Topps Archives recreates iconic designs from the 1950s-1980s. The 2023 edition is set to reimagine 1985 Topps cards. Top rookie reprints could include Dwight Gooden, Gary Sheffield, and Bret Saberhagen. Star reprints of Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, and Ryne Sandberg will also be popular. This set is a fun way to add some classic vintage flair to any collection.

Topps Heritage: Paying tribute to the classic cardboard of the 1960s-1980s, Topps Heritage utilizes retro designs to showcase today’s top players. The 2023 release will feature a 1968 design theme. Popular inserts include the ’64 Tribute parallel and ’65 Throwbacks. Top rookies and stars like Rutschman, Kwan, Ohtani and more will have Heritage cards that emulate the look of the past.

Bowman’s Best: Released in the fall, Bowman’s Best is one of the premium Bowman releases. The set uses high-end parallels, autographs, and patches to spotlight top prospects. Names that could emerge from the 2023 Bowman’s Best set as future stars include catcher Druw Jones (son of Andruw Jones), shortstop Mikey Romero, and pitcher Brock Porter. Their early cards could prove valuable down the line.

Topps Update Series: Issued in late summer/fall, Topps Update Series features midseason call-ups, awards, and All-Star recognitions from the current MLB season. Top rookies and performances from 2023 will be highlighted. Cards of breakout rookie performers like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez from the 2022 Update Series saw huge jumps in value. The 2023 Update will spotlight that year’s top rookies and performances.

Vintage: While chasing the newest releases is exciting, don’t forget about vintage gems from the past. Legendary rookie cards from the 1950s-1980s featuring the games’ all-time greats can still be found with diligent searching. Cards to target include the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, 1957 Topps Hank Aaron, and 1975 Topps Eddie Murray rookies. Other affordable vintage stars include Ozzie Smith, Nolan Ryan, and Tom Seaver rookie cards. With patience, valuable vintage pieces can be uncovered.

Autographs and Memorabilia: For collectors seeking signed pieces and game-used memorabilia cards, keep an eye out for affordable rookie auto and relic cards outside of the flagship releases. Affordable options to target could include Bowman Draft autographs of 2022’s top signees, Topps Chrome Update Series rookie autographs, and Topps Opening Day patches and autographs inserted at lower odds. These signed and game-used rookie pieces of future stars offer strong long term potential.

With another action-packed baseball season on the horizon, 2023 promises to deliver an array of exciting new cards to chase across the various releases. Staying on top of the latest rookies and stars while also discovering vintage gems will help any collector build a well-rounded collection with cards poised to appreciate over the long run. By focusing on the recommendations above, you’ll be well equipped to pursue valuable baseball cardboard in the new year.

JUST COLLECT BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been collected and coveted by enthusiast for over a century. From the simple cardboard sheets produced in the late 1800s to the modern highly produced cards of today, the tradition of baseball card collecting has endured. For many, collecting cards is simply about obtaining and documenting players from their favorite team or era. This article will delve into some of the key aspects of simply collecting cards as a hobby without necessarily focusing on their monetary value.

To start, one of the main attractions of collecting baseball cards is the ability to chronicle the history of the game through the players and teams featured on the cards over the decades. Even just focusing on players from a single franchise allows one to trace the lineage of that organization from year to year. Seeing how uniforms, headshots and aesthetic designs have changed provides a visual timeline of not just the teams but also societal and cultural shifts. For those who have followed a team their whole lives, having cards of players from when they first started watching as a child and being able to match them to the current roster gives collecting cards strong emotional and nostalgic appeal.

In terms of set building, one straightforward approach is to try completing a single year of cards for a modern set. These days, the largest producers like Topps and Panini release new base sets each season that feature virtually every player on a checklist. By focusing acquisition efforts on just one recent year, the completion target is clear and accessible. Bonus inserts and parallels aside, a collector need only track down the standard base cards to finish the set. This allows one to tangibly see their progress and provides a clear endpoint. If desired, the collection could then be expanded to additional years or shifted to older vintage sets.

Organizing and storing completed sets in a logical manner is an important aspect of collecting for enjoyment rather than strictly monetary purposes. While cards in protective plastic sleeves fit neatly into binders sorted by team and number for easy viewing, some prefer the aesthetic appeal of displaying them in tops loaders or magnetic holders in a baseball card album or curio cabinet. Showcasing complete sets in a visually pleasing arrangement for regular appreciation brings the collection to life beyond being sequestered in boxes. Proper storage in a cool, dry place also helps preserve the cards longer term.

Another method that leverages set building with a theme is to assemble the rosters of championship teams from select years. Focusing on players that were part of title runs creates instant intrinsic interest beyond the cards themselves. Pages dedicated to lineups from 1987 Twins, 1996 Yankees or other favorite cores allows one to relive magical seasons through the cardboard representations of those players. Parallel efforts centered on All-Star rosters or Olympic baseball teams inject variety while maintaining dedicated parameters.

While the aforementioned approaches emphasize set completion, loose individual player collection focused on personal preferences is another rewarding way to enjoy the hobby without regard for market dynamics. Favorites from youth, current stars and players with interesting career arcs or stories behind them make for very collectible subjects.Icons across various eras also attract interest – collecting one card each of every member of the 500 home run or 3,000 hit club allows appreciation of elite company players join. Regional ties provide additional collection ideas – cards highlighting players from one’s home state, province or country add relevance.

No matter the chosen acquisition method, regularly attending card shows, sport card shop visits and rummaging online sport card marketplaces fuels the supply of new additions. Affordable singles, bargain lots and dime boxes present opportunities to flesh out sets or favorite players at reasonable costs. While it’s enjoyable to occasionally invest in higher end vintage or autographed cards that hold personal meaning, the affordability of regular modern issues keeps the hobby fresh and financially manageable as a casual pastime. Most of all, simply collecting the cards of players and teams enjoyed through following the game over the decades makes for a highly personalized connection to baseball history.

While the potential investment aspect adds intrigue for some, regularly collecting and appreciating baseball cards as a non-monetary endeavor has lasting appeal of its own. Chronicling favorites, completing sets and displaying them brings the players, teams and eras of America’s pastime to life beyond box scores. Organizing collections thematically around personal interests maintains longterm intrinsic motivation. Regular interaction through attending shows, shopping and tracking additions fuels continual minor rewards that preserve thesimple joy of the hobby over the decades. In the end, collecting cards isabout personalizing one’s relationship with baseball through the cardboard slices of nostalgia, history and fandom they represent.

BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a fun and engaging hobby for collectors of all ages for decades. The variety of baseball cards that can be collected is immense, with new sets and variations released each year. For those looking to start or expand their baseball card collection, here are some of the most desirable and valuable cards worth seeking out.

One of the holy grails of baseball card collecting is the iconic 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card. Widely considered the most valuable trading card of all time, only around 60 copies are known to still exist in various conditions. What makes this card so rare is that Wagner demanded his card be removed from production due to not being compensated for its use. Just finding a low-grade example of this card could cost a collector well into the six figures.

Another extremely rare and valuable pre-war card is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth rookie card. Like the Honus Wagner, only a small number are known to exist today in various states of preservation. Getting your hands on an exemplar of the legendary Bambino’s first card could easily cost over $1 million for a high-quality copy. Both the Wagner and 1914 Ruth are essentially unattainable for most collectors but represent the pinnacle finds for those seeking legendary pieces of sports history.

For collectors working with slightly more modest budgets, there are many highly-coveted vintage cards still within reach. Sets from the 1930s like Goudey and Play Ball contained some of the first true baseball stars and their rookie cards remain quite valuable today. Names like Mel Ott, Jimmie Foxx, and Lou Gehrig can often be found in raw condition in the $500-5,000 range depending on grade. 1936 Goudey cards of Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Bob Feller are also hugely popular with collectors on a budget.

The post-World War 2 era saw the dawn of the modern baseball card with sets like 1948 Bowman and 1951 Bowman in color. Rookie cards of legends like Stan Musial, Willie Mays, and Mickey Mantle from these early 1950s issues can cost thousands even in low grades. 1952 Topps rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Frank Robinson, and Roberto Clemente are also very desirable for collectors. High-grade examples of these true rookie cards could command five-figure prices.

The late 1950s and 1960s gave rise to the golden age of baseball cards with the dominance of Topps as the sole producer. Sets like 1957 Topps, 1959 Topps, and 1964 Topps are considered classics by collectors. Standout rookie cards from this period include Sandy Koufax’s 1955 debut and Roberto Clemente’s 1955 bow. Complete high-quality sets from the 1950s-60s in near-mint condition can sell for tens of thousands.

The 1970s saw the rise of competition with Topps as Fleer and Donruss entered the baseball card market. The debut of these alternate manufacturers made stars’ rookie cards much more obtainable compared to the single-brand 1950s/60s era. Notable rookie cards to seek out include George Brett’s 1971 Topps, Mike Schmidt’s 1974 Topps, and Nolan Ryan’s 1966 Topps issue. Complete sets like 1975 Topps, 1976 Topps, and 1978 Topps are also fan favorites.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the baseball card boom was in full swing with massive print runs that have made most common cards from this era only modestly valuable today. Some true rookie cards still hold significant value. Notable examples include Griffey Jr.’s 1989 Upper Deck RC, Chipper Jones’ 1991 Leaf RC, and Derek Jeter’s 1992 Bowman RC. High-grade vintage rookie cards of all-time greats like Cal Ripken Jr., Barry Bonds, and Ken Griffey Sr. are also desirable.

For today’s collectors, the modern era has seen stratospheric increases in print runs that have diminished most recent players’ card values. There are still rookies that stand out as long-term keepers. Cards like Bryce Harper’s 2009 Bowman Chrome RC, Mike Trout’s 2009 Bowman Chrome RC, and Juan Soto’s 2018 Topps Chrome RC RC have proven to retain and gain value as those players’ careers progress. Superfractor parallels and 1/1 printing plates from sets like Topps Chrome are also highly coveted by today’s collectors.

The world of baseball cards offers literally hundreds of thousands of individual collectibles to pursue. For beginning collectors, focusing on legendary vintage rookie cards from the early 20th century up through the 1970s is a solid strategy. Higher-grade examples of stars’ first Bowman and Topps cards from those pioneer eras will always be in high demand. For more budget-minded collectors, the 1970s through 1990s eras provide many affordable star rookies and complete sets to build around. And today’s top young players like Acuna, Soto and Guerrero offer future investment potential from their early cards as well. With so much history and variety to explore, baseball cards remain one of the most entertaining hobbies in sports collecting.

BEST SET OF BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

Leave a reply

When it comes to collecting baseball cards, there are so many great sets to choose from with a long and rich history. Whether you’re looking for vintage cards from the early 20th century, modern rookie cards, or themed sets celebrating milestones – there is a perfect collection waiting for any baseball fan. While value and rarity are always factors, the best sets to collect are often those that spark your personal interest in the players, designs, and history of the game. Here are some of the most iconic and desirable baseball card sets to consider adding to your collection.

1952 Topps – Often considered the most iconic set in the history of the hobby, the 1952 Topps set was the first true “modern” set that featured gum-on-card packaging and player photos on a color backdrop. It introduced the world to the Topps brand that would come to dominate the industry. With its clean designs and stars of the era like Willie Mays and Ted Williams, this set from 70 years ago remains a highly coveted collection for any vintage enthusiast. Finding high-grade examples today will cost a pretty penny.

1957 Topps – Building off the success of their ’52 set, Topps really hit their stride creatively with the ’57s. Featuring bold primary colors, fun action shots, and the introduction of player statistics on the back, these cards defined the golden age of baseball card design. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron also add to the allure. It’s arguably the most aesthetically pleasing vintage set.

1969 Topps – As one of the final vintage issues before the modern era, the ’69 Topps set is a true icon. It captures the late 1960s style and includes rookie cards of future all-time greats like Tom Seaver, Johnny Bench, and Reggie Jackson. The design is clean yet engaging with team logo borders and fun posed photos. High-grade examples remain reasonably attainable for most collectors.

1975 Topps – Often heralded as the “greatest set of all-time,” the ’75 Topps set perfectly blended vintage aesthetics with the rising star power of the 1970s. Future Hall of Famers like George Brett and Nolan Ryan in their prime grace the cards alongside the first-year issues of Robin Yount and Fred Lynn. Iconic action shots, fun team checklists, and the introduction of player position designations made this a true landmark.

1988 Score – While Donruss and Fleer began to challenge Topps in the 1980s, Score really shook things up with their innovative ’88 issue. Featuring cutting-edge action photography and a dramatic black border design on a white background, these cards looked completely different than anything that came before. Rookies of Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and Barry Larkin added to the excitement. It’s one of the most aesthetically progressive sets of the modern era.

1989 Upper Deck – The hobby was forever changed when Upper Deck arrived on the scene and brought new quality standards that Topps could not match. The ’89 Upper Deck set became an instant classic with sharp photography, premium stock, and a classic team logo design. Rookies of Chipper Jones, Jim Abbott, and Sandy Alomar Jr. made this a key set for investors. It showed collectors what could be accomplished beyond the big three manufacturers.

1994 Collector’s Choice – While not the flashiest set visually, Collector’s Choice made a huge splash in ’94 by securing the exclusive rookie card rights to phenoms like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Sammy Sosa. These remain some of the most iconic and valuable modern rookie cards decades later. For both investors and players fans, finding high-grade examples from this historic set is a must.

2000 Bowman Chrome – Kicking off the refractors revolution in style, the inaugural Bowman Chrome set took cardboard collectibles to a whole new level with its eye-catching chrome finish. Rookies like Josh Beckett really popped alongside established stars. While it didn’t feature the rookie class of 2003, this set started an entire parallel/refractor collecting craze that remains hugely popular today.

2009 Topps Update – Update sets in general provide affordable opportunities to chase the hottest new rookies as the season unfolds. But the ’09 Topps Update stands out as one of the most memorable, headlined by Strasburg Mania and rookie cards of Buster Posey and Mike Trout that now seem like steals. A fun and relatively inexpensive set that paved the way for superstar collectors.

2021 Topps Archives – As a throwback set celebrating the vintage era, Topps Archives has become a hugely popular annual release. But the ’21 edition stands out with its clean yellow border design and star rookies of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. For collectors seeking an affordable master set highlighting today’s stars in a nostalgic package, this set is a no-brainer to pursue.

In the end, the best baseball card sets to collect are those that fit your budget, interests in players and design, and long-term enjoyment. Whether chasing vintage icons or today’s emerging stars, this great hobby has no shortage of iconic releases from the past and present that allow collectors to celebrate America’s pastime in card form. With so much history and variety, happy hunting in building your dream collection!

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT FROM THE 1990s

Leave a reply

The 1990s was a transformative decade for baseball cards. Following a boom period in the late 1980s, the baseball card market crashed in the early 90s which led to many manufacturers going out of business. Several brands emerged as leaders and produced some of the most iconic and valuable baseball card sets of all-time. For collectors looking to assemble a collection representing the best players and sets from the 1990s, here are some top recommendations to consider:

1991 Upper Deck Griffey Rookie Card: Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card from 1991 Upper Deck is arguably the most valuable and desirable baseball card of the 1990s. Widely considered one of the greatest five-tool players of all time, Griffey lived up to the hype as one of the game’s biggest stars. His rookie card featured vibrant color photography and a clean design that set the standard for the premium Upper Deck brand. In mint condition, a Griffey rookie can fetch thousands of dollars today and is a must-have for any collection.

1992 Bowman Chrome Refractors: Bowman Chrome refractors were some of the first “chrome” or parallel cards inserted randomly in packs. Featuring a shiny, refracting surface that makes the photos pop, these parallel cards featured young stars like Derek Jeter, Chipper Jones, and Nomar Garciaparra. While not as valuable as true rookie cards in some cases, they represent the start of parallel and insert cards that became hugely popular. High-grade examples can still sell for hundreds.

1993 Finest Refractors: Similar to Bowman Chrome, the 1993 Finest brand debuted “refractor” parallel cards that had colorful refracting surfaces. Rarest were the ultra-short printed “Gold Refractors” that featured some of the era’s biggest names like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas. Finest parallels were some of the first “hits” collectors eagerly searched packs for. High-grade Gold Refractors can reach well into the thousands today.

1994 Upper Deck SP Autographs: The 1994 Upper Deck SP Autograph set took collector inserts and parallels to another level. Featuring on-card autographs of stars and prospects, the checklist included future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera. While supplies were low, autograph technology had yet to advance, giving these early autographs a special charm. Even commons in PSA/BGS slabs can sell for $100-200 based simply on the signed memorabilia aspect.

1995 Pinnacle Inside Stuff Autographs: Building off the success of 1994 SP, 1995 Pinnacle Inside Stuff took on-card autographs to new heights with its innovative design. Featuring vibrant photography and a unique “inside” the card autograph concept, these remain some of the most visually appealing autographed inserts ever. RCs of Jeter, Todd Helton, and Nomar are standouts but even veterans like Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn command strong prices today.

1996 Ultra Platinum Medallion Autographs: For collectors wanting true 1/1 rarities, 1996 Ultra Platinum Medallion Autographs took the insert concept to its pinnacle. Each card featured an embossed, 24k gold medallion autograph of a star player. Names like Ken Griffey Jr, Mark McGwire, and Greg Maddux were featured on these exquisite one-of-a-kind treasures. While condition sensitive, top examples can sell for well over $10,000 given their unparalleled rarity and craftsmanship.

1997 Leaf Limited Autographs & Memorabilia: For affordable signed cards, 1997 Leaf Limited stood out with affordable blaster-box inserts featuring memorabilia, autographs, and multi-player relic cards of stars and prospects. Names like Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, and Todd Helton made for budget-friendly options to build a signed collection. Commons often sell in the $20-50 range depending on condition, making them a practical vintage signed card investment.

1998 Finest Refractor Parallels: Finest continued pushing parallel and insert technology in 1998 with their popular “Refractor” parallel cards. Featuring players like Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, and Ken Griffey Jr. during their epic home run race, these colorful refractors were chase cards in every pack. Even commons command prices today based simply on their attractive design and representation of the steroid era. High-grade examples can reach $100-200.

1999 Ultra Gold Medallions: For the final year of the decade, 1999 Ultra took parallels to an opulent level with their “Ultra Gold Medallion” parallel inserts. Featuring embossed gold medallions and portraits of stars like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Roger Clemens, these 1/1 parallel inserts took collector appeal to new heights. While condition sensitive, choice examples in the $500-1000 range represent affordable crown jewels for vintage collections.

The 1990s saw tremendous growth and innovation in baseball cards that created many valuable and iconic collectibles. While vintage rookies will always be blue-chip investments, parallel and insert cards from the decade offer affordable options to build a complete collection representing the players and innovations of the 90s. Upper Deck, Finest, and Pinnacle led the way with pioneering technologies that advanced the hobby. For collectors, assembling some of the top cards highlighted can create a portfolio paying tribute to one of the most dynamic eras in the game’s history.

BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT NOW

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been popular collectibles for over a century, with kids and adults alike enjoying assembling full sets or pursuing rare and valuable singles. The baseball card market is always changing as new players emerge and older stars retire, impacting which specific cards are hottest at any given time. With that in mind, here are some of the top baseball cards collectors should consider adding to their collections in the modern era.

Rookie Cards of Emerging Stars: One of the best long-term investments in the hobby is to snatch up the rookie cards of young players who are just starting to make a name for themselves in Major League Baseball. For example, cards from the likes of Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr. and others who debuted in recent years are flying off shelves as these athletes establish themselves as future superstars. Their rookie cards offer a chance to get in early before prices really take off as the players’ careers progress.

Top Prospects: Similarly, the cards of elite minor league prospects who haven’t yet reached the majors but are regarded as can’t-miss future talents can offer plenty of upside. Wander Franco, the top prospect in all of baseball who is expected to debut soon for the Tampa Bay Rays, is a perfect example. His cards, especially prized parallels and autographs, are coveted by collectors banking on his future stardom. Other top prospects like Bobby Witt Jr. also have card values rising fast.

Autographs of Current Stars: In today’s game, the autographed cards of active superstars like Mike Trout, Christian Yelich, Cody Bellinger, Mookie Betts, Fernando Tatis Jr. and others are highly sought after. Their on-field production makes their signatures extremely valuable, and with more authentics being inserted in modern products, their autographed rookie cards or special parallel signatures can cost thousands of dollars for top-tier specimens.

Vintage Stars of the Past: While their playing days may be over, collectors still love to chase the cards of baseball legends from previous eras. The rookie cards and best vintage issues featuring the likes of Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and more never lose their luster and remain hugely valuable, especially in top grades. High-dollar vintage cards are a staple of major auctions.

Modern Parallels and Inserts: Manufacturers today load baseball sets with more parallel and insert card variations than ever before, from refractors and prisms to autos, relics and more. These limited edition versions of current stars hold great appeal to collectors, and their values often appreciate faster than standard base cards. Parallels like Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome and Topps Finest are especially prized in the hobby.

Top Prospect Autographs: As noted earlier, the autographs of elite minor leaguers not yet in the majors are a smart gamble. But super-short-printed autograph parallels like Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome and Topps Finest of top prospects offer a chance at exponential future returns. A $20 parallel auto of a future star could be worth 10 times that within a few years.

Rookie Patch Cards: Jerseys and uniform fabric have become hugely popular baseball card relics. But the rookie year patch cards of emerging young talents are especially sought after, especially if they feature on-card autographs too. A Tatis Jr. Topps triple relic patch auto, or a Soto Bowman Platinum patch, are crown jewels for any PC.

Numbered Parallels: Limited edition parallels found in modern sets often have print runs of only a few dozen copies or less. Ultra-short-printed parallels like Topps Finest /5, Bowman Sterling /10 or Topps Chrome Gold label /50 can exponentially increase in value as the numbers get lower. Collectors love the exclusivity of these hard-to-find parallel cards.

Vintage Stars’ Modern Issues: Even baseball legends from the early 20th century can still yield affordable, collectible cards today through reprints and modern issues. Topps, Panini and other brands continue to produce new cards featuring the all-time greats. While they may not carry the same cachet as true vintage, modern issues help keep older players’ names in the spotlight.

Graded Gems: Condition is everything when it comes to long-term value preservation and appreciation. Collectors seeking the best of the best zero in on top-graded vintage and modern rookie cards, especially those earning BGS/PSA grades of 9s or 10s. Pristine examples of key issues can command enormous sums. Grading also helps verify authenticity for valuable vintage cardboard.

This covers some of the most enticing baseball card categories collectors would be wise to consider if looking to build collections with strong future potential. By focusing on emerging young stars, elite prospects, short-printed parallels and autographs of today’s top players, enthusiasts can get in ahead of upcoming price jumps. Pairing new acquisitions with proven legends from the past also ensures any collection has a solid mix of cards poised to retain and increase their value for years to come.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

Leave a reply

When it comes to collecting baseball cards, there are so many great options to choose from throughout the history of the hobby. Whether you want to focus on modern rookie cards, vintage legends, or iconic sets from decades past, baseball cards provide a fun and engaging way to connect with the national pastime. With so many legendary players who have graced baseball diamonds over the years, tracking down their classic rookie cards or memorable moments on cardboard can be a very rewarding experience for any collector. Here are some of the best baseball cards to consider adding to your collection.

Perhaps the most sought-after baseball card in the world is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Widely considered the “holy grail” of the hobby, the Wagner card is the rarest of the iconic T206 set. Only around 60 are known to still exist today in various conditions. The card is so rare because Wagner demanded that his card be removed from production due to an alleged disagreement over the use of his likeness for commercial purposes. As a result, remarkably few of these elusive cards survived over the past century. While most collectors will never own one of the legendary Wagner rookies, it is still fascinating to learn about its storied history in the game.

For vintage collectors, another excellent set to target is the 1952 Topps collection. This was the very first complete set to be mass produced by Topps after acquiring the rights to produce gum-backed cards. Iconic stars like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Duke Snider are all captured in their rookie seasons in this landmark release. High-grade versions of their cards can sell for well into the five figures. The 1952 Topps set is also notable for introducing the modern concept of player photography that is still used on cards today.

Fast forwarding to the modern era, one of the best investments a collector can make is obtaining rookie cards for current young superstars. For example, cards like the 2018 Topps Update Juan Soto, the 2017 Bowman Chrome Ronald Acuña Jr., or the 2016 Bowman Chrome Cody Bellinger all feature these budding talents from their true rookie seasons in professional ball. As these players continue ascending to the heights of MLB success, their early cards are sure to appreciate greatly in value with time. Having the foresight to snap up affordable rookies of future Hall of Famers can pay great dividends.

For collectors seeking iconic sets beyond the rookie card chase, some excellent options include the vintage 1933 Goudey Giants Babe Ruth and the iconic 1959 Topps complete collection. The 1959 Topps set is widely considered the most aesthetically pleasing of the classic cardboard. Future stars like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax are all prominently featured. High-grade versions can sell for thousands. Another vintage great is the 1951 Bowman complete set. Notable for its colorful design and early use of color photos, this set gave collectors their first glimpse of legends like Jackie Robinson and Roy Campanella.

For the post-war and ‘60s era, the 1954 Topps, 1957 Topps, and 1969 Topps sets all hold significant historical value. The 1954 Topps set is particularly notable for its classic design aesthetic and inclusion of stars like Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle in the prime of their careers. In 1957 Topps, collectors can find the last cards produced for recently retired legends like Ted Williams and Stan Musial. The 1969 set is most famous for its inclusion of the final cards made for Hank Aaron before he broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. High-grade versions of these sets can sell for thousands of dollars.

Modern chase cards don’t have to break the bank either. Affordable options to target include rookie cards for recent All-Stars like the 2012 Topps Update Mookie Betts, the 2013 Topps Update Bryce Harper, or the 2015 Bowman Chrome Carlos Correa. These young talents have all gone on to stardom and their early cards remain quite reasonably priced compared to the cards of past legends. With sustained success, they could eventually join the ranks of the game’s greats. Collectors can also look at parallels and autographs from modern sets for affordable chase cards of today’s brightest pitching and hitting talents that could appreciate over the long run.

With over a century’s worth of history to choose from, baseball cards provide countless opportunities for collectors of all levels and interests. Whether seeking investment pieces, affordable fan favorites, or simply to reconnect with beloved players of eras past, the cardboard wonders of the national pastime are sure to delight and entertain collectors for generations to come. With diligent research and a focused collection plan, building a stellar baseball card collection is within reach of any dedicated enthusiast of America’s favorite pastime.

FUN BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have long been a hobby enjoyed by fans of all ages. Most recognize iconic rookie cards of stars like Mickey Mantle and Sandy Koufax that can fetch huge sums today. For those just starting a collection or seeking an affordable pastime, there are plenty of fun baseball cards to collect that won’t break the bank. Whether it’s unique themes, obscure players, or cards from outside the mainstream, here are some ideas for interesting baseball cards to add to any collection.

Non-Sport subsets – Topps and other brands have produced many inserts over the years focused on things beyond the field of play. Star Wars and Marvel superhero cards inserted randomly in packs were big in the 1970s-90s. More recent themes include musical artists, politics, movies/TV shows featuring baseball. These offbeat cards offer a distraction from statistics.

Minor League and International League cards – Most collectors amass major league stars but minor league rosters feature future talents and obscure journeymen. Companies like Leaf produce sets highlighting complete Triple-A and Double-A rosters. International league issues from Japan, Korea, Caribbean provide global exposure to the game.

error/flawed cards – Miscuts, missing statistics, double prints – errors that usually get weeded out occasionally make it into packs. These flawed cards stand out from the norm. More commonly available are oddball ‘Turkey Red’ style issues printed on lower quality card stock in the past.

Vintage obscure teams/leagues – Pre-war sets brought exposure to long forgotten minor and independent leagues like the Federal League or Negro Leagues forbidden from the majors. Pacific Coast League teams featured many future MLBers. Reproduction sets capture these niche aspects of baseball’s history.

Promotional issues – Regional bank or store incentives, premiums for purchasing specific products sometimes included dodgy photography baseball cards as bonuses. Distributed locally, these oddball promos didn’t achieve the status of mainstream issues.

Alternate sport variants – Products like Triple Play and Sports Flix merged baseball cards with other sports in the 90s, putting ballplayers on cards featuring stats from football, hockey etc. as a quirky crossover concept.

Meme/joke cards – Fan-made or small privately printed parodies, caricatures and joke concepts lampooning the sport in a lighthearted manner. Depictions like ‘Pimp My Ride’ ballplayers or players as superheroes aim for chuckles over authenticity.

Oddball materials – Early 20th century cigarette/tobacco cards and cabinet cards printed on various surfaces. Also modern plastic, wood and metal redesigns offer tactile novelty compared to traditional paper stock.

Celebrity autographed/memorabilia cards – Signed inserts by Hollywood personalities sometimes embedded in packs bring a collector face-to-face aspect. Relic cards containing game used cloth or equipment offer ownership of tangible artifacts.

Alternate photos – Unretouched and unposed shots tend to seem more raw than polished portraits. Action shots, blooper moments capture more vibrant personalities than on-field glamour poses. Film/negative scraps printed onto cards become documentary in nature.

Fantasy/what-if concepts – Imaginary cards placed players on vintage uniforms, projected stat lines for careers interrupted by war or injuries. Cards paying tribute to Negro League legends now in the Hall of Fame help preserve their legacy.

Regional variations – Canadian, Latin American, Asian regional issues put a local flavor on global sports. Translations, local players, cultural nuances make overseas issues fascinating for studying international hobby differences.

Commemoratives – Anniversary and milestone cards honoring championships, All Star Games etc. provide historical bookmarks rather than standalone players. Stadium/ballpark cards capture iconic field perspectives.

Promo/bonus packs – Expos, Reds and other teams in the 70s-80s sometimes included original cards in ticket/program giveaways. Outside of pack distributions, these scarce local issues attract dedicated collectors.

Insert subsets – Mini/traded/oddball subsets inserted randomly 1-per-pack add variety. 3-D lenticular ‘holograms’, oddball dimension like oval-shaped or vertical/horizontal cards disrupt expected norms. Embossed, superwide/tall issues experiment outside the box.

With so many creative types of baseball cards produced over the decades, collectors have countless options to pursue unique angles beyond the same familiar rosters. For those seeking an affordable way to build a themed collection showcasing niche aspects of the hobby, these offbeat card categories provide endless fun possibilities beyond the sport’s marquee stars. With patience and an open mind, any fan can enjoy the hunt through boxes and find treasures highlighting baseball’s rich history from unusual angles.

BEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

Leave a reply

When it comes to collecting baseball cards, rookie cards hold a special appeal. Capturing a player at the very beginning of their career, before they’ve had a chance to establish themselves, rookie cards offer a glimpse into the future potential of young stars. For collectors looking to invest in the next generation of baseball greats, focusing on top rookie cards can yield big rewards down the road. With that in mind, here are some of the best rookie baseball cards to seek out for any collection.

Mike Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft RC (BGS 9.5): Widely considered the best player in baseball today, Trout has lived up to the hype of his prospect status. His 2009 Bowman Chrome rookie card from his draft year is one of the key rookie cards in the hobby. Trout was not yet a household name, but this shiny Chrome version shows his potential. High-grade examples now sell for thousands due to his career achievements.

Bryce Harper 2009 Bowman Draft RC Auto (BGS 9.5): Like Trout, Harper burst onto the scene as one of the most hyped prospects ever. His rookie card features an on-card autograph from his draft year. Despite some ups and downs, Harper has established himself as a true superstar. He has 2 MVP awards and a World Series ring already. With his best years likely still ahead, this card should remain a blue-chip investment long-term.

Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Upper Deck RC (PSA 10): Widely considered the best pure hitting prospect of all-time, “The Kid” lived up to the hype with a storied 22-year career. His iconic Upper Deck rookie card is one of the most iconic in the entire hobby. High grades fetch five figures and beyond due to Griffey’s legendary career and the card’s iconic status in the industry. Few rookie cards hold as much cachet in the collecting world.

Mariano Rivera 1991 Fleer RC (PSA 10): As arguably the greatest closer of all-time, Rivera carved out a legendary 19-year career entirely with the New York Yankees. His rookie card came at a time when he was still developing as a starter, before finding his niche in the bullpen. PSA 10 examples can sell for over $10,000 now due to his career achievements and Hall of Fame induction.

Ronald Acuña Jr. 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto (BGS 9.5): Still early in his career, Acuña has already established himself as one of baseball’s brightest young stars. He made his big-league debut in 2018 and immediately began putting up All-Star caliber numbers. His rookie card autograph from Bowman Chrome captures him at the beginning of what could be a Cooperstown career. High grades have already eclipsed the $1,000 mark.

Juan Soto 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto (BGS 9.5): Like Acuña, Soto reached the majors in 2018 and hasn’t looked back since. He’s already a two-time All-Star at just 23 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. His on-card autograph rookie from Bowman Chrome has climbed north of $1,000 for top grades as collectors bet on his continued superstardom.

Pete Alonso 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto (BGS 9.5): As a rookie in 2019, Alonso shattered the single-season home run record for a rookie with 53 long balls. He’s been an All-Star in both full seasons played and won the 2019 NL Rookie of the Year Award. His autographed rookie from Bowman Chrome has followed the same upward trajectory and gives collectors an early investment in a budding slugger.

Fernando Tatis Jr. 2019 Topps Chrome RC (PSA 10): Arriving in San Diego in 2019, Tatis immediately made his presence known by showing five-tool talents. He finished third in NL ROY voting that year and became the face of the Padres franchise. High-grade examples of his flagship Topps Chrome rookie have already eclipsed the $1,000 mark. At just 23, Tatis has superstar potential written all over him.

Ronald Acuña Jr. 2018 Bowman Platinum RC Auto Patch (BGS 9.5): For the ultra high-end collector, Acuña’s one-of-one rookie patch autograph card takes the cake. It captures his signature swatches from his draft year uniform and caps off a truly one-of-a-kind rookie card for a player who could end up as an all-time great. Examples have sold for over $20,000 already and will become more valuable as Acuña’s career progresses.

Those represent some of the best rookie baseball cards for collectors to target, focusing on young stars who are already accomplished major leaguers or have superstar potential. By investing in top rookies like Trout, Harper, Acuña, Soto, Tatis and more, collectors can gain access to early career cards of players who may end up as Hall of Famers. With patients and a watchful eye on the players’ progression, these rookie cards offer a chance for long-term appreciation and growth in a collection.

MLB PLAYERS WHO COLLECT BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Many Major League Baseball players grew up just like any other kid who loved the game – collecting baseball cards. Even as professionals at the top of their sport, the hobby of collecting cards has stayed with some players into their careers. Whether it’s searching through packs for their own rookie card or old favorites from their childhood, several MLB stars still have a passion for the cardboard collectibles that capture the history of the game.

Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo is one of the most well-known players who still actively collects cards today. As a kid growing up in Florida, Rizzo was obsessed with baseball and would spend hours sorting through his collection. He remembers going to card shows with his father and the thrill of the hunt for new additions to his stack of stars. Now as a three-time All-Star, Rizzo’s collection has grown considerably but his love for the hobby remains. He estimates having around 500,000 cards spanning all sports in a climate-controlled room in his house. Among the prized pieces in Rizzo’s collection are rare vintage cards like a Mickey Mantle rookie and a Honus Wagner T206.

Another passionate collector in the MLB is Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger. As a kid in Arizona, Bellinger got his start accumulating cards at card shows and shops near his home. These days, he still enjoys searching for cards to add to his assortment with a focus on Dodgers legends. Bellinger owns rare game-worn jerseys and signed memorabilia cards of icons like Sandy Koufax and Fernando Valenzuela. He also loves chasing down oddball and unique cards beyond the typical Topps and Bowman sets. Bellinger keeps a big portion of his prized collection stored safely at his parent’s house when he’s on the road playing baseball.

Washington Nationals ace Max Scherzer similarly got his start in the card-collecting world as a kid. He remembers going to card conventions with his father and brother in the St. Louis area. Scherzer’s collection mainly focused on baseball but also contained basketball, football, and hockey cards. These days, he still enjoys seeking out pieces to add whether it’s tracking down vintage stars or possessions with connections to his own career. Among Scherzer’s prized wares are cards from early in his pro days climbing the minor league system and his National League Cy Young Award-winning seasons in Washington.

Detroit Tigers legend Justin Verlander also falls into the ranks of MLB players who continue to feed their baseball card collecting habit. As a kid growing up in Virginia and Florida, Verlander amassed boxes of cards and always looked forward to ripping packs on the way home from the card shop. He credits collecting as one of the big childhood passions that helped spur his love for the game. Now in the later stages of his decorated career, Verlander still enjoys searching for pieces from stars throughout history to add to his carefully organized home collection. He also takes pride in his own cards chronicling a stellar playing career spanning nearly two decades in the big leagues.

Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander has a similar story when it comes to his long-running history collecting baseball cards. Growing up in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, Verlander would regularly visit card shops looking to expand his collection. The hobby helped foster his passion for the sport from a young age. Today as a veteran pitcher still performing at an elite level, Verlander enjoys hunting down vintage pieces and treasures tied to his outstanding MLB career. He also appreciates how baseball cards preserve the legacy of greats who came before him in a tangible, accessible form.

One of the newest MLB players to share his enthusiasm for collecting cards is Seattle Mariners rookie sensation Julio Rodriguez. Even as a burgeoning superstar, Rodriguez still maintains a collection mainly comprised of pieces from stars throughout history. In an interview, he shared fond memories of searching shops with his father back home in the Dominican Republic trying to track down the illusive additions they didn’t have. Rodriguez appreciates baseball cards as a connection to legends of the past and hopes that one day kids will hunt for his own cards as memories of his career.

For many MLB players who grew up immersed in America’s pastime, collecting baseball cards was a big part of developing that initial passion. Even as professionals at the highest level of the sport, some still foster that childhood enthusiasm through continuously building collections. Whether storing boxes of carefully organized cardboard at home or seeking out rare finds on the road, these MLB stars show how the hobby can remain lifelong for those who love the game and its history captured in card form. For many, it brings them closer to the roots that first inspired their incredible journeys to the major leagues.