Tag Archives: cubs

RARE CUBS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Few franchises in professional sports have as rich a history as the Chicago Cubs. Founded in 1870, the Cubs are one of the oldest teams in Major League Baseball and have captured national championships, developed homegrown stars, and seen some of the game’s greatest talents don the Cubs uniform over their 150-year history. As one of the cornerstone franchises of 20th century American sports, the Cubs have amassed a collection of rare and valuable baseball cards that offer a window into the team’s past.

Some of the rarest and most valuable Cubs cards were produced during the early 20th century, when baseball cards were included as incentives in cigarettes and candy. Among the most coveted from this period is the 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner card, which depicts the legendary Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop. Only 50-200 of the Wagner cards are believed to have been printed, making them the rare and valuable collectibles in the sports world. What makes the Cubs connection so intriguing is that Wagner began his career in Chicago in 1897 and played for the Cubs’ franchise for one season before being traded to Pittsburgh. As one of the game’s first true superstars, seeing him in a Cubs uniform, even if only for a single card, makes any Wagner T206 that much more significant.

In the 1930s, Goudey Gum Company produced some of the earliest baseball card sets specifically designed for collecting. Highlights from the 1933 Goudey set include stars Gabby Hartnett and Charlie Grimm in Cubs uniforms. Only around 500,000 of the original 1933 Goudey cards were printed, and high-grade specimens of Hartnett or Grimm in their Cubs duds can fetch thousands of dollars. Another iconic Cubs star of the 1930s with an incredibly scarce card is Hack Wilson. His 1930 DeLong card, which was inserted in packs of DeLong’s Football, is considered one of the true “holy grails” for Cubs collectors. Only a handful are known to exist in collectible condition.

During the post-World War 2 era, the Cubs roster was stacked with future Hall of Famers like Billy Jurges, Hank Sauer, Randy Jackson, and, of course, Ernie Banks. The 1952 Bowman set featured the first color photographs on baseball cards and included Banks in one of his early Cubs uniforms. High-grade versions have sold at auction for over $10,000. Topps debuted as a licensed MLB card maker in 1956 and their early offerings gave collectors their first glossy, full-color snapshots of Banks and teammates like Banks, Sam Jones, and Randy Hundley. In particularly nice condition with the distinctive yellow backing, 1956 and 1957 Topps Cubs cards can fetch over $1000 each.

The 1960s brought more stars to Wrigley Field as players like Ron Santo, Fergie Jenkins, and Billy Williams emerged. Their rookie and early career cards from Topps, Fleer, and other manufacturers have grown in demand. Especially for Williams, his 1965 Topps and 1966 Topps cards, showing him in his prime as a perennial All-Star, have reached values of $500-1000 each for high-quality specimens. Aside from the star players, several common Cubs from the 1960s have also increases significantly in value. For example, a well-centered 1968 Topps Don Young in a Cubs uniform just sold for over $150.

It was the 1969 Cubs that came agonizingly close to winning the franchises’ first World Series in over 50 years. As such, cards from that magical “North Side Hit Men” squad led by Ferguson Jenkins and featuring Santo, Beckert, and the rest have taken on an almost mythical quality for collectors. Keys cards include the rookie issues of Jenkins (1964 Topps) and Bill Hands (1966 Topps) which have reached up six figures when graded gem mint. Even commons from the infamous ‘69 Topps and Fleer sets command substantial prices today. Simply putting together a complete team set from that year requires a serious investment.

While they struggled on the field throughout the 1970s and 80s, the Cubs still produced plenty of fun and affordable cardboard for collectors. Fan favorites like Bruce Sutter, Jody Davis, and Ryne Sandberg emerged with affordable early issues, many of which have grown sharply in value in recent years. Sandberg’s 1984 Donruss and Topps rookies can each fetch over $100 now. The late 1980s also saw rookie issues for rising stars Shawon Dunston and Greg Maddux. One of the true oddball rarities from this era is the 1979 O-Pee-Chee Mexican Jorge Orta card, with only a small number confirmed to exist.

By the late 1980s, the Cubs had built a new championship-caliber club around Maddux, Sandberg, and Dunston. This era is represented by some genuinely valuable modern Cubs cards, starting with rookie gems like the Pitchers Maddux (1985 Donruss) and Les Lancaster (1984 Fleer). High-grade specimens regularly sell for thousands. Sandberg’s towering accomplishments of the late 1980s are also well-documented. His 1986 Fleer Update and 1988 Donruss Diamond Kings parallel efforts have reached over $500 each for pristine copies. Other chase cards include Mark Grace’s rookie (1988 Score) and the coveted 1989 Upper Deck Sammy Sosa rookie, which has changed hands for over $1000 in top condition.

The early 21st century saw the Cubs on the verge of a breakthrough. Players like Kerry Wood, Mark Prior, Derrek Lee, and Aramis Ramirez had big cardboard in the late 1990s/early 2000s. Of particular interest are Wood’s explosive 1998 Bowman Chrome and Gallery rookie refractors, both of which have achieved strong four-figure prices. Prior also had coveted rookie products in 2000 Topps Chrome and Bowman’s Best. More recently, cards like Javier Baez’s 2014 Topps Update Breakout Variation parallel to /99 and Kris Bryant’s 2015 Panini Golden Age Spectra have taken on new significance as those young stars led the Cubs to historic success.

In 2016, the Cubs at long last captured their first World Series championship in over a century, breaking one of the most infamous curses in sports. Memorable cards from that championship core include Javier Baez’s 2017 Topps Update Green Shimmer Parallel /50 and the elusive Kris Bryant 2015 Topps Update Blue Refractor /150. Even today, cards that depict players from those 2016 Cubs like Jason Heyward, Jon Lester, and David Ross remain very popular with collectors seeking pieces of franchise history.

While Wrigley Field and the Cubs iconic logo have been featured on cards dating back over a century, some modern standouts include 2013 Topps Steve Bartman, chronicling one of the franchises darkest chapters, and 2015 Panini Golden Age Cooperstown Collection Ryne Sandberg, highlighting one of its brightest stars. For the ultra-premium collector, high-end autograph and memorabilia cards of Sandberg, Santo, Banks and others consistently deliver strong returns.

In over 150 years of franchise history, the Chicago Cubs have built up one of the most storied collections of baseball cards in the sport. From early T206 classics to modern parallels and autographs, rare Cubs cards allow collectors to physically hold pieces of the team’s past, present and future in their hands. With the club’s first World Series title now in the books but more glory potentially ahead, demand for cards chronicling the Cubs rich tradition shows no signs of slowing.

CUBS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The Chicago Cubs are one of the most historic franchises in Major League Baseball, with a rich history dating back to 1874. As one of the oldest teams in the league, Cubs players have been featured on baseball cards for over a century, providing a visual history of the many stars and memorable teams that have worn the Cubs uniform over the years. Cubs cards offer collectors a unique opportunity to reminisce about past eras of Cubs baseball and appreciate the legacy of some all-time great players.

Some of the earliest Cubs cards date back to the late 1880s from sets produced by tobacco companies like Goodwin & Company and Allen & Ginter. These antique cards featured iconic Cubs like Cap Anson, Adrian “Cap” Anson, and Mike “King” Kelly. While incredibly rare today in any grade above poor condition, these pioneer Cubs cards set the stage for the baseball card boom that would take place in the coming decades as the hobby grew in popularity.

In the early 20th century, T206 and E90-E92 tobacco issues provided the first color images of Cubs stars like Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown, Frank Chance, and Jack Taylor. Brown’s distinctive pitching motion and Chance’s leadership of the team’s first World Series champions in 1907 and 1908 made them especially popular subjects. High-grade examples of these early 20th century tobacco issues can fetch six figures at auction today due to their historical significance and limited surviving populations.

The Goudey Gum Company released the first modern design baseball card set in 1933, featuring over 150 players from the National and American Leagues at the time. Notable Cubs in the set included Gabby Hartnett, Charlie Grimm, and Kiki Cuyler. The Goudey set helped popularize the modern baseball card format that is still used today of a vertical design with a color team photo on the front and stats on the back. High-grade Goudey Cubs cards remain some of the most iconic and valuable from the pre-war era.

In the post-war years of the late 1940s and 1950s, the Bowman and Topps gum companies dominated the baseball card market. Legendary Cubs players like Hank Sauer, Randy Hundley, Ernie Banks, and Ron Santo achieved their first widespread card coverage during this period in sets like 1951 Bowman, 1954 Topps, and 1959 Topps. The 1959 Topps card of Ernie Banks with his famous smile has become one of the most recognizable and cherished Cubs cards ever made.

The 1960s saw the Cubs return to the World Series behind the bats of Banks, Santo, Billy Williams, and Ferguson Jenkins on the mound. They were featured prominently in the iconic 1966 Topps set, considered one of the most beautiful designs in card history. Highlights include the first color Cubs team card since the 1930s Goudey issues and individual cards showcasing each member of the infield and outfield. Graded examples of these 1960s stars in their Cubs uniforms are highly sought after by collectors today.

The 1970s produced some of the most visually dramatic Cubs cards ever due to the colorful designs of the era by Topps. Thurman Munson and Bill Madlock led the offense, with pitchers like Milt Pappas and Rick Reuschel on the mound. Topps issued parallel sets like Traded in the mid-1970s, allowing fans to follow players who switched teams during the season. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Dave Kingman and Bruce Sutter also debuted during this decade.

The 1980s saw the Cubs return to the NLCS in 1984 behind ace pitcher Rick Sutcliffe and All-Star shortstop Shawon Dunston. Topps captured them in classic cardboard during that memorable season. Other stars like Jody Davis, Gary Matthews, and Keith Moreland also had their best Cubs years cardified for collectors. The late 1980s Donruss and Score sets showcased future great Andre Dawson’s arrival and early Cubs career before his NL MVP season in 1987.

In the 1990s, the Cubs were competitive again led by Ryne Sandberg, Greg Maddux, and Mark Grace. Upper Deck brought its revolutionary photography and design style to Cubs cards starting in 1989. Finest and Studio issues stood out for their premium refractors and parallel short prints. The 90s also saw the rise of sportscards as an investment asset class, driving up prices for key rookie and star Cubs cards from the decade in top condition.

The 2000s Cubs featured Sammy Sosa’s home run chase alongside young talents like Kerry Wood, Carlos Zambrano, and Derrek Lee. Updates and parallels in sets from Topps, Upper Deck, and Leaf captured their performances. The late 2000s rookie cards of Starlin Castro and Geovany Soto also gained popularity as those players emerged. In recent years, the Cubs at last broke their World Series drought in 2016 with a championship team led by Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Jon Lester that received extra attention from card manufacturers.

As the Cubs look to add to their legacy in the 2020s and beyond, their baseball cards will continue to be prized collectibles commemorating the franchise’s rich history. Whether celebrating iconic stars of the past or today’s young talents, Cubs cards spanning over 140 years offer a visual connection to some of the most memorable moments in one of baseball’s most storied franchises. Serious Cubs collectors seek out even the rarest and highest graded examples from the team’s earliest card issues to showcase the evolution of the iconic Chicago Cubs in cardboard over the decades.

CHICAGO CUBS WORLD SERIES BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The Chicago Cubs are one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, but their history is defined by decades of playoff futility. Prior to 2016, the Cubs had not won the World Series in over a century, dating all the way back to 1908. As a result, baseball cards from the few times the Cubs reached the Fall Classic are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most notable and valuable Cubs World Series baseball cards from their championship season in 2016 and earlier attempts.

One of the earliest and most iconic Cubs World Series cards comes from their last championship in 1908. The T206 White Border set from that year features multiple future Hall of Famers who were key contributors to the Cubs first title, including triple crown winner Joe Tinker (#281). High graded examples of this rare early 20th century issue in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition have sold for over $100,000 due to the incredibly small print run over 100 years ago. Other notables from the 1908 set include pitcher Mordecai Brown (#76), outfielder Billy Jurges (#234), and second baseman Johnny Evers (#253).

After over a century of waiting, the Cubs broke the curse and won the World Series again in 2016 against the Cleveland Indians. The major sports card manufacturers all released sets focused on capturing the historic championship run. Topps issued several different varieties focused on the 2016 postseason, headlined by star third baseman Kris Bryant’s prominent rookie card (#212). Panini also delivered retro-style World Series Moment’s parallels and Prizm parallels commemoration the title. The crown jewel for Cubs collectors was the case hit 2016 Topps Chrome Cubs World Series Champions autograph patch card of Javier Baez. Only 24 were produced, with PSA 10 examples reaching astronomical prices above $30,000.

In between those two championship decades, the Cubs made back-to-back World Series appearances in 1935 and 1938 but fell short of a title both times. The 1935 Goudey set is one of the most recognizable designs from that era and featured star first baseman Phil Cavarretta’s prominent rookie card (#85). High graded examples have sold for over $10,000. Several cards also exist featuring Hall of Fame pitcher Claude Passeau from those late 1930’s World Series rosters, including in the iconic 1939 Play Ball issue.

After nearly 20 years of disappointment following the 1938 Series loss, the Cubs returned to the Fall Classic in 1945 facing off against the Detroit Tigers. Star pitchers Hank Borowy and Bill Nicholson, who both started games in that Series, have decently popular vintage cards from that set. The true key cards are those featuring Hall of Fame third baseman and team captain Stan Musial from the rival St. Louis Cardinals. Musial dominated the 1945 Series for the National League champion Cardinals who defeated the Cubs 4-3.

In 1984, the Cubs had their best team in decades led by All-Stars Ron Cey, Gary Matthews, Ryne Sandberg, and Rick Sutcliffe on the mound. They made a storybook run to the NLCS before falling to the San Diego Padres. Topps issued a pivotal update series late in ’84 focused solely on playoff performers from that postseason. Popular short prints include Sutcliffe’s dominant Game 1 winning pitcher performance card and Sandberg’s iconic #363 issue recognizing his key home run and MVP caliber series. High graded examples from the ultra-rare ’84 Update have cracked $1000 due to the short print window.

While they haven’t repeated the ultimate goal of winning another championship, the Cubs did return to the NLCS in both 2015 and 2016 prior to capturing the trophy the following year. The 2015 Topps Update and 2016 ChromeUpdate sets are also highly collected for focusing solely on performances from that Fall Classic runs and playoff heroes like star shortstop Addison Russell. Kris Bryant’s prominent rookie card from the ’15 Update set cracked six figures in PSA 10 condition.

Baseball cards representing the Cubs appearances in the World Series present collectors with some extremely rare and historically significant issues due to the infrequency of their October success over the last century. Key cards from the 1908, 1935, 1938, 1945, 1984, 2015, and 2016 seasons highlight star players, rookie cards, and autographs that showcase those memorable championship runs and playoff performances. With another extended dry spell before the 2016 title, cards from their past Series appearances remain highly valuable and some of the most prized possessions for diehard Cubs collectors.

BASEBALL CARDS CUBS

Leave a reply

The Chicago Cubs are one of the most historic franchises in Major League Baseball. Founded in 1874, the Cubs have produced some of the game’s greatest players and moments over the past 147 years. Naturally, many of these stars and memories have been immortalized on baseball cards over the decades.

Some of the earliest Cubs cards date back to the late 19th century during the early days of the tobacco card era. In 1886-1887, several Cubs players appeared on cards inserted in packages of Allen & Ginter cigarettes including captain and catcher John Bennett, outfielder King Kelly, and pitcher Larry Corcoran. These cardboard relics are now extremely rare and fetch high prices when they surface at auction.

The modern baseball card boom began in the late 1880s with the introduction of color lithographed cards by companies like Goodwin Champions and Old Judge. Cubs who had cards in sets during this period included Hall of Famers Cap Anson, Adrian “Cap” Anson, and Jimmy Ryan. These early cards are also quite scarce today.

In the early 20th century, the most iconic Cubs cards came from the T206 and T205 White Border sets issued between 1909-1911 by the American Tobacco Company. Superstars Frank Chance, Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown, and Johnny Evers had prominent cards in the sets that are considered some of the most desirable in the hobby. High grade specimens can sell for over $100,000.

The 1920s brought several new Cubs stars that received widespread card coverage. Hall of Famer Grover Cleveland Alexander had cards in numerous sets of the decade after joining the Cubs in 1926 following his stellar career with the Phillies. Legendary “Galloping Ghost” Hack Wilson debuted on cards in 1926 and had one of the most iconic baseball photos ever taken on his 1929 Battebell Gum card.

In the 1930s, Cubs who appeared on cards included future Hall of Famers Gabby Hartnett, Billy Herman, and Lon Warneke. The Goudey Gum Company issued highly collectible cards of these players, especially their 1933 and 1934 sets which featured intricate color photos. Highlights from this period also include Hartnett’s iconic 1934 Battebell Gum card showing him calling a game.

The post-war era saw the Cubs return to prominence in the late 1930s and 1940s behind stars like Stan Hack, Phil Cavarretta, and Mickey Owen. These players had cards in iconic sets like Play Ball (1939-1941), Leaf (1941), and Topps (1951). One of the most famous baseball cards ever is the T206 Honus Wagner, several high-grade specimens of which have sold for over $1 million.

In the 1950s, the Cubs cards that stand out most are Ernie Banks’ rookie card from the 1952 Bowman set and his iconic smile on several Topps issues. Other stars like Hank Sauer and Randy Hundley also had popular cards produced during baseball’s golden age of cardboard. Topps dominated the market but competitors like Bowman and Red Man also featured Cubs.

The 1960s brought the legendary Banks at his peak, paired with fellow All-Star second baseman Glenn Beckert. Their cards from the 1960s Topps sets remain widely collected today. Pitchers like Bill Hands, Bill Henry and Ferguson Jenkins also had cards reflecting their contributions to some competitive Cubs teams.

The 1970s saw the rise of future Hall of Famer Andre Dawson, who had popular rookie cards produced by Topps, Donruss and Fleer. Other stars with memorable 70s cards include Billy Williams, Milt Pappas and Bucky Dent. Topps ruled but the arrival of new companies like Donruss began increasing cardboard options for collectors.

In the 1980s, Ryne Sandberg emerged as the Cubs’ new superstar, with his rookie cards and numerous Topps issues among the most iconic of that decade. Other key players to receive widespread card coverage included Jody Davis, Keith Moreland and Rick Sutcliffe. The arrival of Fleer and Donruss as serious competitors to Topps expanded collector choices.

The 1990s saw the Cubs return to prominence behind stars like Greg Maddux, Mark Grace, and Sammy Sosa. All three had extremely popular rookie cards as well as issues throughout the decade reflecting their All-Star play. Upper Deck also entered the market in 1989, increasing competition and innovation even further.

In the 2000s and beyond, cards have commemorated the rise of players like Kerry Wood, Carlos Zambrano, Starlin Castro, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo. Iconic rookie cards remain highly sought. The Cubs’ 2016 World Series win also spawned special commemorative card issues. While the digital age has impacted the hobby, the Cubs remain one of the most collectible franchises in cardboard history.

From early tobacco cards to modern issues, Chicago Cubs players have been inspiring collectors for over 135 years. Many of these cardboard pieces of history provide a window into the greatest eras and individual performances in one of baseball’s most storied franchises. Cubs cards continue connecting both fans and the hobby to some of the game’s most memorable names and moments.

SAMMY SOSA CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Sammy Sosa was one of the most prolific home run hitters of the late 1990s steroid era and an integral part of the Chicago Cubs’ revival during that period. As the powerful right fielder for the Cubs from 1992-2004, Sosa enthralled fans with his booming home runs and exuberant personality that captivated a city. His individual accomplishments and role in ending the Cubs’ championship drought make him one of the most important figures in franchise history.

Sosa’s rookie baseball cards from his time with the Cubs in the early 1990s showcase a rising young star with promise but before he had fully blossomed into the superstar slugger that would later emerge. In his 1991 rookie card from Score board #717, the 22-year old Sosa is pictured in a Cubs uniform but had only played in 29 games during his rookie season that year, hitting .221 with 2 home runs and 9 RBI. His limited playing time and stats that season don’t necessarily indicate the impact he would soon have.

In 1992, Sosa began to establish himself more in his second season with the Cubs. His 1991-92 Donruss baseball card #140 features improved stats of 20 home runs and 69 RBI in 147 games as he started to show some of the power potential that would later be fully realized. He also won the first of six Gold Gloves that season. While impressive, Sosa was still developing and not yet the household name and fan favorite he would become.

The 1993 season was a real breakout year for Sosa as he hit 18 home runs before the All-Star break and was selected to his first All-Star Game. His rising stardom led to a prominent place in the highly collectible 1993 Upper Deck SP baseball card set. His golden SP card #US38 stands out as a special rookie card that foreshadowed greatness to come for the Cubs outfielder. Though not quite a superstar yet, Sosa was firmly establishing himself as a budding power hitter.

Sosa exploded onto the national scene in 1994 after the baseball strike ended late that season. In just 106 games, he slugged a major league-leading 36 home runs along with 53 extra-base hits and 90 RBI. His dominant performance led to an appearance on the cover of the prestigious 1994 Topps basebal cards box alongside veteran star Ken Griffey Jr. Sosa’s card #180 from that set featured his fearsome batting stance and established him as one of the game’s premier power threats.

Building off his breakout season, Sosa continued mashing home runs in 1995 to the tune of 40 long balls with 108 RBI in 157 games while also stealing 20 bases. His power and athleticism made him a dynamic threat that fans loved to watch. His memorable 1995 Fleer Ultra card #76 encapsulated the awe and excitement he brought to Wrigley Field every time he stepped to the plate. With impressive stats and his trademark energetic home run trots, Sosa was now one of baseball’s biggest stars.

By 1998, Sosa had developed into the biggest box office draw in Chicago. That season he engaged in one of the most captivating home run chases in baseball history against Mark McGwire as both eclipsed Roger Maris’ single season record. On the way to smashing the record with 66 home runs, Sosa’s every at-bat was must-see TV. His legendary 1998 Donruss Elite Extra Edition card #EE43 captured Sosa mid-swing during his epic season and remains incredibly rare and valuable to collectors today.

The following year in 1999, Sosa put on an encore performance by belting 63 homers to finish second in the majors to McGwire’s 65. More than just raw power, Sosa exhibited incredible hand-eye coordination and timing at the plate that season in becoming the first player ever to record three 60-home run seasons. Upper Deck’s 1999 Best insert card #HRK showcased Sosa’s ferocious swing and skill set that enabled his prodigious home run production.

During the late 90s home run heyday, Sosa emerged not just as one of baseball’s elite sluggers but also the face of the Cubs franchise looking to break their World Series championship drought. In numerous collector’s sets from that era like Fleer Tradition, Topps Chrome, and Bowman, Sosa’s starring cards depicted the joy and passion he brought millions of North Side fans. His historic homers and exuberance after each one lifted the spirits of a city hungry for a title.

While Sosa never fulfilled his Cubs career by winning that elusive championship, he did set the all-time franchise home run record that had stood since the 1930s. His pursuit of greatness with the Cubs will always be remembered through his iconic baseball cards from that magical period. Sosa eventually fell shy of the Hall of Fame but his legacy as one of the game’s most watchable sluggers of his era will continue to be commemorated by collectors cherishing his classic Cubs cardboard. As time passes, Sosa’s contributions that brought fans so much joy and optimism will increasingly be fondly reminisced. For generations of Cubs faithful, Sammy Sosa was their home run king who showed what one player could mean to a storied franchise yearning for a long-awaited title.

VALUABLE CUBS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

One of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs boast a long history that dates back to 1876. As one of the National League’s charter franchises, the Cubs have produced some true icons of the game like Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ron Santo and Ryne Sandberg. This illustrious past is reflected in the Cubs’ rich collection of valuable baseball cards from across the decades. For collectors seeking authentic pieces of Cubs history, here are some of the most notable and expensive cards to keep an eye out for.

1909 T206 Honus Wagner (PSA 1): Arguably the most coveted card in the hobby, even poor condition examples of Honus Wagner’s iconic 1909-11 T206 baseball card can fetch astronomically high prices. While Wagner spent just one season with the Cubs in 1910, high grade examples regularly sell for well over $1 million given the card’s immense rarity and cultural significance in the collecting world. A PSA 1 would still pull in a high 6-figure sum.

1914 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson (PSA 6): One of the true icons of the Deadball Era, “Shoeless Joe” Jackson spent 2 1⁄2 seasons with the Cubs from 1915-1917 before being banned from baseball for his role in the Black Sox Scandal. His scarcity in high grades makes his 1914 Cracker Jack issue an extremely valuable Cubs card. A mid-grade PSA 6 would command a sale price well north of $100,000.

1913 M101-4 Nap Lajoie (PSA 8): Adolphe “Nap” Lajoie was an outstanding second baseman who played 33 games for the Cubs late in the 1913 season after over a decade starring with the Philadelphia Athletics. His legendary skill as a two-bagger earns him iconic status, and his tobacco card from that year remains one of the most coveted pre-war issues. Even common for the series, a high quality PSA 8 example would sell for $50,000-$75,000.

1929 Bazooka Ruby Roberts: The first African-American player in Cubs franchise history, infielder Johnny Burns spent parts of three seasons with Chicago in the late 1920s under the pseudonym “Ruby Roberts” due to the racial segregation and prejudice of the time. Nearly a century later, his scarcity and historical significance as a pioneering ballplayer make his ’29 Bazooka card one of the most valuable Cubs issues, with PSA 5s bringing $5,000-$7,500.

1956 Topps Ernie Banks (PSA 8 NM-MT): Known affectionately as “Mr. Cub,” Ernie Banks embodied the franchise for nearly two decades and was a 14-time All-Star. As one of the first prominent stars of the post-war Topps era, his 1956 rookie card is hugely iconic for Cubs collectors. High quality PSA 8 examples frequently command $4,000-6,000 at auction.

1961 Topps Billy Williams (PSA 8 NM-MT): A true Cubs legend, left fielder/designated hitter Billy “Sweet Swingin'” Williams played all 19 of his MLB seasons with Chicago and racked up over 500 home runs. His outstanding 1961 rookie card is highly coveted by collectors, with a PSA 8 bringing approximately $3,500.

1969 Topps Ron Santo (PSA 8 NM-MT): A fixture at third base for 15 campaigns in Chicago, Ron Santo was a ferocious competitor and five-time All-Star who unfortunately missed out on a World Series championship with the Cubs by a year. Still, his accomplishments earned him a place in the Hall of Fame. High grade copies of his iconic 1969 card move for $2,500-3,000.

1984 Fleer Ryne Sandberg (PSA 10 GEM MT): Winning MVP honors twice in his 16 seasons patrolling second base at Wrigley Field, Ryne Sandberg was the NL’s premier player for much of the 1980s and cemented his Cooperstown status in his Cubs career. To find his 1984 Fleer rookie in pristine PSA 10 condition is the true Holy Grail, fetching over $7,000 on the primary market.

1989 Upper Deck Greg Maddux (PSA 10 GEM MT): Before becoming a Braves/Cubs legend and one of the games’ all-time great hurlers, righty Greg Maddux broke in with Chicago in 1986 at age 20 and showed flashes of future dominance across parts of four Cubs seasons. High grade copies of his premiere Upper Deck RC in 1989 still bring $2,000-2,500 given his illustrious career.

There are of course many other notable Cubs stars and valuable cards not mentioned here spanning each era — from vintage greats like Gabby Hartnett, Hack Wilson and Charlie Grimm to modern aces like Kerry Wood and Mark Prior. But this selection provides a snapshot of some true blue-chip Cubs issues that exemplify both the team’s storied history and rich cardboard heritage for collectors. For those chasing authentic pieces of Wrigley Field’s past, these represent among the most prized possessions in the long box.

CUBS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

Leave a reply

Cubs Baseball Cards Worth Money: Valuable Cards From Wrigley’s Early Years

The Chicago Cubs are one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, with a history dating back to 1874. As one of the charter members of the National League, the Cubs have been featured on baseball cards for over a century. While some of the team’s modern cards may hold value, many of their most valuable vintage issues come from the early decades of the 20th century. Let’s take a look at some Cubs baseball cards that could be worth a decent amount of money today if found in good condition.

1909 T206 White Border Mickey Doolin (#110)

The 1909-1911 T206 series is considered one of the most iconic vintage sets in the sport. Featuring photos of stars from across MLB, high-grade examples in this set can fetch six-figure prices. One Cubs player featured is shortstop Mickey Doolin, who spent four seasons with the team from 1908-1911. His T206 white border card is highly sought after, with PSA 8 examples selling for $4,000-$6,000 in recent years. Finding one in even higher grade could yield a potential five-figure return.

1911-12 M101-4 Frank Schulte (#8)

Just a few years after the T206 set, the 1911-12 series produced by American Caramel featured similar tobacco portrait style images. Considered the follow-up to the landmark T206s, the M101-4 set also carries considerable value today. Outfielder Frank Schulte was a key member of the 1910 “Whiz Kids” Cubs team that won the pennant. His card from this set regularly brings $1,000-2,000 for high-grade copies, with the potential to earn even more in pristine MINT condition.

1914 Cracker Jack Joe Tinker (#22)

Insert cards found in Cracker Jack boxes were some of the earliest mainstream baseball cards distributed to the general public. Shortstop Joe Tinker is best known as a member of the famed “Tinker to Evers to Chance” double play combo for the Cubs from 1903-1912. High-grade copies of his 1914 Cracker Jack issue can sell for $800-1,500 depending on centering and condition. Finding one in near-perfect shape could yield a price tag well above the $2,000 mark.

1916 M101-7 Grover Cleveland Alexander (#9)

One of the most dominant pitchers of the Deadball Era, Grover Cleveland Alexander enjoyed great success during his four years with the Cubs from 1916-1919. His 1916 M101-7 tobacco card captures him in a Cubs uniform and is one of the key early 20th century issues showing “Old Pete” with Chicago. PSA 8 copies have sold for $1,500-2,500, with the potential for a true GEM MT 10 example to bring over $5,000.

1916-17 Bordens Best Gabby Hartnett (#83)

Best remembered as a longtime Cubs catcher in the 1920s-30s, Hartnett broke into the majors with Chicago in 1916. His rookie card comes from the premium Bordens Best dairy set. High-grade copies in this set are rare and valuable, with a PSA 8 recently selling for $4,000. Finding his rookie in pristine condition could yield a price well above the $10,000 mark for serious Cubs collectors.

1918-19 McLoughlin Bros Gabby Hartnett (#31)

Hartnett’s second early Cubs card comes from the premium 1918-19 McLoughlin Brothers set. These high-quality images were distributed as prizes and hold similar cachet to the T206 tobacco issues. PSA 8 copies of Gabby’s rookie Cubs card have sold for $3,000-5,000 depending on eye appeal. A true gem quality example could potentially earn over $10,000 on the current vintage baseball market.

1933 Goudey Billy Jurges (#156)

The 1933 Goudey set is one of the most iconic early modern issues. Shortstop Billy Jurges spent seven seasons with the Cubs from 1930-1936. High-grade copies of his Goudey rookie card sell for $800-1,500 depending on condition. A true pristine MT 10 could be worth $5,000+ to Cubs collectors seeking a key piece from this hallowed set featuring “Wrigley Regulars.”

While Cubs rookies from the modern era may not hold huge values, there are plenty of valuable early 20th century cards featuring stars from the franchise’s Wrigley Field beginnings. Top condition examples from pioneering tobacco sets like T206 and M101, as well as premium issues showing rookie years of legends like Tinker, Schulte, Alexander, Hartnett and Jurges, have the greatest potential to earn serious money for savvy collectors today. With such a long and storied history, the Cubs have produced many iconic cardboard images that remain highly sought after pieces for dedicated fans of the team.

CUBS BASEBALL CARDS 2023

Leave a reply

The Chicago Cubs are coming off another disappointing season in 2022 but there are signs of hope and promise for the future as the beloved North Siders continue their rebuild. While the on-field product may still be developing, Cubs fans can always look forward to the release of the latest baseball card sets each year featuring their favorite team and players both past and present. 2023 looks to be another exciting year for Cubs cards as several young stars continue to emerge and veterans remain fan favorites.

Top Young Stars To Watch

Perhaps the most anticipated Cubs cards for collectors in 2023 will be those featuring some of the team’s rising young talents. After a breakout season that saw him named NL Rookie of the Year, Seiya Suzuki will surely be one of the hot commodities. The 27-year-old Japanese outfielder batted .262 with 17 home runs in his first MLB campaign and looks primed for even bigger things. Another corner outfielder to keep an eye on is Ian Happ, who is coming into his prime at 26 years old. Happ has shown steady improvement each year and hit 25 home runs in 2022, proving to be a foundation piece as the Cubs move forward.

On the mound, 23-year-old righty Keegan Thompson looks poised for stardom after a breakout 2022 where he went 12-8 with a 3.97 ERA as a versatile starter and reliever. Thompson flashed three above average pitches and good control, making him one of the more intriguing young arms in baseball going forward. Fellow young hurlers such as Justin Steele, Adrian Sampson and Brandon Hughes also continue to develop and will be fun to track through their baseball cards.

Of course, the crown jewel of the Cubs’ collection of prospects remains outfielder Brennen Davis. The former top 100 prospect started to tap into his enormous power potential late in 2022 and will look to lock down an everyday role in 2023 at age 23. Davis has one of the highest ceilings in the system and collecting his rookie cards now could prove very profitable down the road if he reaches his star potential.

Veteran Fan Favorites

While rebuilding, the Cubs have opted to hold onto some popular veterans who continue to produce and provide leadership in the clubhouse. Perennial All-Star Willson Contreras remains one of the top backstops in baseball at 30 years old and is a heart-and-soul type player beloved on the North Side of Chicago. Contreras’ cards always fly off the shelves and 2023 looks to be no different as he enters a contract year.

Also entering his final year of team control before free agency is impending free agent catcher Yan Gomes. The 35-year-old defensive specialist has developed into a valuable experienced backup and mentor, lending his veteran experience behind the plate. Gomes remains quite popular with Cubs fans and in the dugout.

On the mound, Cubs fans can still get behind two crafty veterans who were key contributors again in 2022. Righty Kyle Hendricks, despite battling injuries, continues to chew up innings efficiently when healthy at 32 years old. A mainstay in the team’s rotation for years, Hendricks’ cards maintain their following. Fellow right-hander Wade Miley is an underrated signing that paid dividends last season. At 36, Miley proved he remains an innings-eater capable of eating quality starts.

Up And Coming RCs To Watch For

While focusing mainly on developing young talent, the Cubs did add a couple notable prospects through the draft in 2022 who collectors will want to watch out for in their rookie card debuts. Fifth overall pick Cutter Montgomery is one of the top prep arms in the draft class with a projectable 6’4 frame and three promising pitches. The pitcher out of Georgia flashed mid-90s heat and could rise up prospect lists quickly.

Later in the first round, the Cubs selected prep shortstop Christopher Morel out of Puerto Rico. Morel is a tooled up switch hitter with huge raw power potential and athleticism expected to stick at short. After flying through two levels of the minors last season, Morel could reach Wrigley soon and give fans an exciting young position player to follow. Keep an eye out for the rookie cards of these two potential future stars.

Vintage Cubs Still In High Demand

As one of the most storied franchises in baseball, the Cubs have no shortage of beloved alumni that maintain card value well after retirement. Perhaps no retired Cub maintains stronger demand than Ryne Sandberg, who remains one of the most memorable and accomplished second basemen in history. The Hall of Famer played his entire career in Chicago’s beloved blue pinstripes from 1981-1997, capturing the ’84 NL MVP and earning 10 Gold Gloves. Ryno’s rookie cards from 1981 remain among the most sought after Cubs items.

Another Cubs legend holding steady valuation is Fergie Jenkins. The Hall of Fame righty spent eight brilliant seasons on the North Side from 1966-1973, leading the NL in wins twice and ERA once en route to a career 3.34 ERA in Chicago. Jenkins’ rookie cards and Cubs starter/star cards are considered classics in the hobby. Even role players like Rick Monday, Jose Cardenal and Jody Davis from the famed 1984 division winner see collectors clamoring for their Cubs cards.

The state of Cubs collecting remains strong as fans look forward to a promising young core emerging at Wrigley Field. With established vets like Contreras and Hendricks alongside young breakouts like Suzuki and Thompson, 2023 figures to bring another exciting year of Cubs cards both new and vintage. Staying patient through the rebuild, collectors can take solace in adding top prospects like Montgomery and Morel to their Cubs PC with high expectations for the future.

CUBS BASEBALL BIRTHDAY CARDS

Leave a reply

Cubs Baseball Birthday Cards: A Tradition of Fandom

For diehard Chicago Cubs fans, nothing says “Happy Birthday” quite like receiving a Cubs-themed birthday card. Whether it’s a lighthearted card featuring beloved mascots like Clark and Alice or a more sentimental card highlighting iconic Wrigley Field, Cubs baseball birthday cards allow fans to celebrate their love for the team on their special day. With over a century of history and traditions to draw from, there is no shortage of inspiration for Cubs greeting card designers. From celebrating past championship teams to commemorating current players, Cubs baseball birthday cards have become a treasured way for fans of all ages to share in the time-honored tradition of Cub fandom on their birthdays.

Some of the most popular Cubs birthday card designs pay homage to the franchise’s rich history at Wrigley Field. Classic scenes of the iconic ballpark, with its hand-turned scoreboard and ivy-covered walls, never fail to evoke nostalgia in Cubs fans. Many cards showcase beloved traditions like rooftop viewing and peanuts and Cracker Jack being sold in the stands. Vintage photos bring the glory days of Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, and Fergie Jenkins back to life. Reliving fond memories made at the “Friendly Confines” makes any Cubs fan feel special on their birthday.

For younger Cubs fans, birthday cards with Clark and Alice are always a hit. The fun-loving polar bear and penguin mascots, introduced in 2014, have become hugely popular figures at Wrigley Field and beyond. Their goofy antics and love of the Cubs translate perfectly to birthday card designs. Cards with Clark and Alice wishing fans a “cool” birthday or celebrating with a cake help keep the Cubs spirit alive on birthdays for kids of all ages. Plenty of cards also feature fan-favorite sluggers like Anthony Rizzo and Willson Contreras delivering birthday wishes in their uniforms.

Some Cubs birthday cards take a more sentimental approach, allowing fans to reflect on what the team means to them personally. Cards with inspirational messages about how much a lifetime of Cubs memories are appreciated or how being a Cubs fan is part of who someone is can strike an emotional chord. Vintage photos of generations of families passing their Cub fandom down also make thoughtful birthday sentiments. For Cubs devotees living out of town, cards reminding them that “home” will always be at Wrigley Field help curb homesickness. Whether celebrating the past, present, or future of the team, Cubs cards keep the love of the team close on birthdays.

For diehard Cubs fans, nothing says “Happy Birthday” quite like receiving a Cubs-themed birthday card. Whether it’s a lighthearted card featuring beloved mascots like Clark and Alice or a more sentimental card highlighting iconic Wrigley Field, Cubs baseball birthday cards allow fans to celebrate their love for the team on their special day. With over a century of history and traditions to draw from, there is no shortage of inspiration for Cubs greeting card designers. From celebrating past championship teams to commemorating current players, Cubs baseball birthday cards have become a treasured way for fans of all ages to share in the time-honored tradition of Cub fandom on their birthdays.

Some birthday card companies offer large selections of Cubs cards to suit any fan. Wrigley Regulars Greeting Cards produces an array of classic and contemporary Cubs designs for all ages. Their cards capture the nostalgia of Ernie Banks and Billy Williams while also celebrating today’s stars like Javy Báez. For extra special Cubs fans, they offer customizable cards where fans can add their own personalized message inside a card featuring Wrigley Field or the iconic marquee.

Another popular option is Cubs Birthday Cards by Zazzle. Their extensive Cubs collection allows fans to find the perfect card for any birthday boy or girl. In addition to cards highlighting memorable moments in franchise history, they have fun designs themed after beloved mascots Clark and Alice. Zazzle also allows customers to create completely custom Cubs cards from scratch. Fans can upload their own photos and write customized messages to truly make the card one-of-a-kind for the recipient. This level of personalization is perfect for superfan relatives, friends, or that special birthday Cubs buddy.

For those wanting to support independent artists while getting a Cubs card, Etsy has a variety of handmade and vintage options. Shops create unique designs featuring everything from classic ballpark scenes to cards highlighting favorite players both past and present. Vintage Cubs postcards from the early 1900s can also be found, transforming a piece of baseball history into a birthday greeting. For fans wanting to support smaller businesses, Etsy is a great place to find special Cubs cards not mass produced elsewhere.

Whether a lifelong Cubs fan just becoming a superfan, everyone loves receiving a special birthday card acknowledging their fandom. Cubs baseball birthday cards allow the team’s history and traditions to be celebrated year after year. With so many options available, it’s easy for any Cubs lover to find the perfect greeting card design capturing what the team means to them. Bringing a smile to a fan’s face and starting meaningful conversations about cherished Cubs memories, these cards are a birthday tradition as timeless as Wrigley Field itself.

CUBS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 2023 baseball season will mark another year for the historic Chicago Cubs franchise. As the Cubs look to build on their progress from 2022 and continue working to develop their young core of position players, many fans will be collecting the new Cubs baseball cards to commemorate the upcoming season. Here is an in-depth look at some of the key Cubs players who could feature prominently in the 2023 baseball card sets.

Perhaps the most anticipated Cubs rookie card for 2023 will be shortstop Ed Howard. The 21-year old was selected 16th overall by Chicago in the 2020 MLB Draft and has quickly risen up the Cubs prospect rankings with his combination of defensive skills, hitting ability, and athleticism. In 2022, Howard hit .265 with 13 home runs and an .820 OPS between High-A and Double-A, showcasing why many analysts view him as a future All-Star. His rookie cards from sets like Topps, Bowman, and Panini are likely to be hot commodities for collectors.

Another Cubs rookie generating plenty of buzz is outfielder Brennen Davis. After making his MLB debut in 2022 and hitting .235 in 46 games, Davis will look to lock down a regular role with Chicago in 2023. The 23-year old has plus power potential and was one of the organization’s top prospects for several years. His rookie cards from last season sold for substantial prices and interest in Davis will remain high heading into his first full big league campaign. Both Davis and Howard could end up featuring prominently in special Cubs rookie card inserts.

On the pitching side, Cubs fans will be keeping a close eye on 24-year old right-hander Caleb Kilian. Acquired from the Giants at the 2021 trade deadline, Kilian made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed why he has one of the best repertoires in the Cubs system with a mid-90s fastball and hard slider. The young starter will compete for a spot in Chicago’s rotation in 2023. As a recent top prospect making his way to the majors, Kilian’s rookie cards could gain value with a strong sophomore season.

Of course, collectors will also be seeking cards of established Cubs stars like Willson Contreras and Ian Happ. As Contreras hits free agency following the 2023 season in what could be his last year on the Cubs, cards from his final season with the team may take on added significance. The two-time All-Star catcher has been a fan favorite and staple of the Cubs lineup for years. Meanwhile, Happ has emerged as one of baseball’s most consistent offensive threats from the left side. After hitting .271 with 16 home runs and 57 RBI in 2022, the 28-year old will look to build on a career year and cement his place in the Cubs long-term plans.

Rookies and young prospects aren’t the only Cubs generating interest, however. Veterans like Wade Miley, Marcus Stroman, and David Robertson were all key additions for Chicago on the mound in 2022 and 2023 cards of these players could rise in value with another solid campaign. Stroman in particular has developed a large collector base after a stellar career pitching for the Mets and Blue Jays. At 31, he remains an innings-eating stalwart at the front of the Cubs rotation.

Of course, no discussion of Cubs cards would be complete without mentioning superstar Japanese slugger Seiya Suzuki. In his rookie season of 2022, Suzuki proved why he was one of the most sought-after international free agents by hitting .262 with 17 home runs and 44 RBI in just 88 games before an injury ended his season prematurely. Now fully healthy, the 28-year old outfielder will look to build on a promising debut campaign and further cement his place among the game’s brightest young stars. His rookie cards from 2022 sold for high prices and interest in Suzuki is unlikely to wane.

While the Cubs continue their rebuild, there remains plenty for collectors to track both in the present and future. From established veterans to rising prospects, the 2023 Cubs card class is primed to feature many players who could have breakout campaigns or take their place as fixtures in the organization for years to come. For Cubs fans both on and off the field, keeping an eye on the development of these athletes through the hobby of card collecting makes for an exciting way to follow the upcoming season. With a blend of proven talent and emerging stars, Cubs cards in 2023 offer collectors investment opportunities as well as chances to commemorate the franchise’s rich history.