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BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1964

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1964 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1964 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. It was the year the Beatles invaded America, Lyndon Johnson was elected president, and the New York Yankees won their 23rd World Series title. Within the world of collectible baseball cards, 1964 Topps holds a special place as well for introducing exciting new designs and featuring some of the game’s biggest stars as they entered their prime. As with any vintage set, card conditions and specific player/team attachments can cause huge swings in value. This 1964 Topps baseball card price guide provides a general overview of what you can expect to pay for common cards in various grades.

Rookies, Stars, and Key Cards

As with any vintage set, the true keys that can fetch big money are the rookies and stars in high grades. One of the most coveted 1964 Topps cards is #130 Mickey Mantle. In pristine Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition, this iconic Yankee can sell for over $2,000. Another true “holy grail” is #506 Willie Mays, which has sold for well over $5,000 in gem mint condition. Other star cards that can reach $1,000+ in top grades include #42 Hank Aaron, #50 Roberto Clemente, #109 Sandy Koufax.

Several notable rookies also command big prices in the 1964 Topps set. #130 Pete Rose in NM-MT condition has sold for over $1,000. #7 Dick Allen, #37 Lou Brock, and #112 Billy Williams are other rookie cards that can reach $500-800 in top grades. The #1 card, Joe Pepitone, is also popular as the first card in the set and has sold for over $400 graded NM-MT. Beyond the true keys, there are several other stars and short prints that can reach $100-300 in top condition as well.

Common Cards in Various Grades

For the vast majority of “common” cards in the 1964 Topps set, here is a general guide to expected values based on condition:

Poor (P): Creases, corners rounded/bent, edges worn – $1-3

Very Good (VG): Some creasing, edgewear, corners slightly rounded – $3-7

Good (G): Lightly played, minor edgewear, corners still sharp – $5-10

Very Fine (VF): Minimal wear, sharp corners, light edgewear – $10-15

Near Mint (NM): Bright, no creases, sharp corners, light surface scuffs – $15-25

Mint (MT): Pristine, no flaws, like it came out of the pack – $25-50

Team/Player Variations

As with any vintage set, certain team and player attachments can cause cards to be more desirable and hold additional value. Cards of the dominant New York Yankees from that era tend to fetch a premium. Top stars on smaller market clubs like the Braves, Reds, and Cardinals also attract strong interest from collectors. Variations in uniform/team photo pose or background can also impact prices. For example, the 1964 Topps #512 Willie McCovey with an alternate team photo pose has sold for over $100.

Condition is King

When buying and selling 1964 Topps cards, condition is absolutely paramount in determining value. Even a single grade difference from NM to MT can double or triple a card’s price. It’s always best to have high-end vintage cards professionally graded by a reputable third-party service like PSA or SGC. Their numeric grading scales provide a clear and consistent assessment of condition that buyers and sellers trust. Always inspect cards closely under bright lighting before purchasing as well, and be wary of descriptions that seem too good to be true. By understanding the factors that drive value for this iconic set, collectors can better navigate the 1964 Topps baseball card market whether buying, selling, or just enjoying this piece of sports history.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1950 TOPPS

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The 1950 Topps baseball card set was the first series of modern sports cards produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc. and marked a turning point in the collectibles industry that has lasted over 70 years. With its simple yet iconic design featuring player photos on a white background, the 1950 Topps set paved the way for the modern model of annual sports card releases that remains hugely popular today.

The 1950 Topps set contains a total of 121 cards featuring players and managers from both the American and National Leagues. Some key things to know about the 1950 Topps set that impact the cards’ values in the price guide include the photo sizes, production numbers, condition factors, and the legendary rookie cards included. Let’s take a deeper look at each of these elements and how they influence pricing for this historic set.

One of the standout features of the 1950 Topps design is the large 3 1/8″ by 2 1/8″ photo size used for most cards in the set. This made the images significantly larger than previous baseball cards released prior to 1950. However, 21 “mini” cards in the set featured smaller 1 5/8″ by 2 1/8″ photos to make space for longer player names. These mini cards have traditionally been more scarce and valuable in the price guide due to the smaller photo production runs associated with them.

In terms of production numbers, the 1950 Topps set had a fairly high original print run estimated between 50,000 to 75,000 sets. Over 70 years of wear and tear have taken a toll on card survival rates. Combined with the popularity of the set amongst collectors, this means high grade examples of even common players can be quite valuable in the price guide. The lower the grade, the more condition factors like centering, edges and surface affect estimated values.

Perhaps the most influential aspect of the 1950 Topps set for its price guide status are the legendary rookie cards it features. Topps debuted its policy of including rookie cards for first-year players in 1950. Two of the most valuable rookie cards in all of sports card collecting history are found in this set – the Mickey Mantle card (#311) and the Willie Mays card (#258). In Near Mint to Mint condition, the Mantle and Mays rookies routinely sell for thousands, with record prices reaching six figures. Other top rookie cards like Billy Martin (#74), Whitey Ford (#43), and Hank Aaron (#254) also command significant premiums.

With all of these factors in mind, here is a breakdown of estimated 1950 Topps card values in different grades based on a number of price guides:

Common players (non-rookie, non-star) in Poor-Very Good condition: $5-25

Common players in Fine-Very Fine condition: $10-50

Common players in Near Mint-Mint condition: $25-100

Star players (but not rookies) in Poor-Very Good condition: $10-50

Star players in Fine-Very Fine condition: $25-100

Star players in Near Mint-Mint condition: $50-250

Top rookie cards like Mantle, Mays, Martin in Poor-Very Good condition: $100-500

Top rookie cards in Fine-Very Fine condition: $250-1,000

Top rookie cards in Near Mint-Mint condition: $1,000-5,000

Mickey Mantle rookie in Near Mint-Mint condition: $10,000+

Willie Mays rookie in Near Mint-Mint condition: $5,000+

As you can see, condition is absolutely critical to 1950 Topps card values. Even common players can be worth hundreds in top grades due to the set’s historical significance and limited surviving population after seven decades. The Mantle and Mays rookies have achieved a status like no other in the hobby, routinely setting new records. The 1950 Topps set established the blueprint for the modern sports card industry and remains one of the most iconic issues ever produced.

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BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1962

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1962 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1962 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. It was the first year Topps used color photos on the fronts of all their cards. This set is highly sought after by collectors and contains some of the most valuable rookie cards ever produced. With 792 total cards issued, the 1962 Topps set provides a snapshot of Major League Baseball during a pivotal time for the sport. Let’s take an in-depth look at the key cards, players, and pricing trends for this beloved vintage release.

Rookie Phenoms Drive Prices

Two rookies featured in the 1962 set would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and their cards are among the most expensive from the year – Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle. The Mantle rookie PSA 10 has sold for over $100,000, while high-grade Mays rookies can fetch $50,000+. Other top rookie cards include Sandy Koufax, who won three Cy Young Awards and is in the $2,000-$3,000 range for a PSA 8. Roberto Clemente, 15-time Gold Glover and 2000 hit club member, has $1,000-$1,500 PSA 8 rookies. Orlando Cepeda, 1958 NL Rookie of the Year, has $800-$1,200 PSA 8s. Future 300-game winner Don Drysdale’s rookie commands $500-$800 graded PSA 8.

Condition is King for Valuable Commons

While the rookie cards stand out, there are also many valuable common cards in the 1962 set depending on grade. A PSA 10 of slugger Harmon Killebrew could sell for $1,500-$2,000. A PSA 10 of Yankees catcher Elston Howard would fetch $800-$1,000. Even role players like Billy Pierce or Luis Aparicio can reach $300 PSA 10. Most commons top out around $50-$100 PSA 8. Condition is extremely important, as a worn PSA 5 of these same players may only sell for $10-20. This shows the premium placed on high grades for vintage cardboard.

Stars of the Era Maintain Value

Superstars who dominated the decade still hold value today. A PSA 8 of Triple Crown winner Frank Robinson would sell for $300-$400. A PSA 9 of slugger Hank Aaron could reach $500. Pitching greats Sandy Koufax, Whitey Ford and Early Wynn in PSA 8 grade range from $150-$250. Legendary Yankees manager Casey Stengel has a $150 PSA 8 card. Even role players on pennant winners have collector interest – a PSA 8 of Pirates shortstop Gene Alley could sell for $75. This shows how cards from iconic franchises and players of the era retain long-term collecting interest.

Errors and Variations Add Excitement

While errors are usually downgraded, some 1962 variations have increased collector demand. The “bat” error Sandy Koufax card, where his name is spelled “Kaufax,” has brought over $2,000 in PSA 8. A “no name” variation of Dodgers catcher John Roseboro, where his name is missing from the front, can reach $500 PSA 8. Other oddball cards include a Billy Pierce with an extra “R” added and a Minnie Minoso with the “I” and “N” transposed. While not super valuable, errors add intrigue to an already beloved set.

In Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for Hall of Fame rookies, stars of the era, or high-grade commons, the 1962 Topps set offers something for every type of collector over 50 years later. Condition remains paramount, but the nostalgia and history captured make it a true vintage classic. With iconic players and franchises represented, demand stays strong for this colorful and important release as the hobby continues to grow. Graded examples still provide an affordable entry point for collectors, while gem mint examples of the stars will always attract serious bidder competition.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1960 KELLOGG’s

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The 1960 Kellogg’s baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the pre-1970 era. Issued as a promotion for Kellogg’s cereal, the 1960 set featured cards of over 200 Major League players from that season. While production numbers for the set are unknown, it is believed fewer were printed compared to modern card sets. This rarity, combined with the nostalgia factor, makes 1960 Kellogg’s cards highly sought after by collectors over 60 years later.

The 1960 Kellogg’s set differed from modern trading cards in several ways. First, the cards measured 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches, smaller than today’s standard size. They featured a color photo on the front and player stats/career highlights on the back. The backs did not include any company logos, copyright information, or production details – leaving the exact origins of the set a mystery. The cards were quite flimsy and not meant to last decades like modern cards. As a result, finding high grade examples in top condition is extremely difficult.

When examining 1960 Kellogg’s card values, there are several key factors that influence a card’s price:

Player Prominence: Cards featuring superstar players from the 1960 season like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Mickey Mantle are among the most expensive, often reaching into the thousands of dollars for high grade copies. Even lesser stars can fetch hundreds in top condition due to their rarity.

Card Condition: As mentioned, the fragile nature of these old cards means high grade specimens are exceedingly rare. Anything graded NM-MT 7 or above by services like PSA is extremely valuable due to the inherent difficulty in finding well-preserved examples after 60+ years. Lower graded copies are still quite valuable but demand is lower.

Parallel Versions: In addition to the standard issue, there were also “pink back” parallels printed of many cards that are even more scarce. These pink back variations can double or triple a card’s value depending on condition and player.

Insert Cards: Within the set there were also special “insert” cards featuring Hall of Famers like Babe Ruth that are true keys to the set. Even low-grade versions of these inserts can sell for thousands.

To give an idea of pricing, here are ballpark estimates for some notable 1960 Kellogg’s cards in top PSA 8-10 condition:

Willie Mays: $3,000-$5,000
Hank Aaron: $2,000-$3,500
Mickey Mantle: $2,500-$4,000
Roberto Clemente: $1,500-$2,500
Sandy Koufax: $1,000-$2,000
Whitey Ford: $800-$1,500
Babe Ruth insert: $5,000+
Pink back parallel: 50-100% premium over standard card
Average star player: $500-$1,000
Average role player: $200-$500

Keep in mind, elite condition examples of the true star rookies and inserts could sell for tens of thousands at auction. Meanwhile, most common players would be worth $100 or less in low grades. Condition is absolutely king when it comes to value.

The 1960 Kellogg’s baseball card set holds a hallowed place in collectible sports card history due to its rarity, nostalgia, and the fact it features some of the game’s all-time greatest players. Even after 60+ years, it remains one of the most iconic and valuable vintage sets for dedicated collectors. With such a small surviving population, condition is critical – making high grade examples of key cards true treasures for those lucky enough to acquire them.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PSA PRICE GUIDE

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues from the late 1980s. Not only did it feature some true legends of the game like Pete Rose, Tom Seaver, and Mike Schmidt, but it also had many stars who were just entering their primes like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Greg Maddux. The photography and design of the 1987 Donruss set is also very recognizable from that era with players having their names stacked vertically on the left side of the card.

When it comes to the values of the 1987 Donruss baseball cards, there is one rating service that is the undisputed authority – Professional Sports Authenticator, more commonly known as PSA. PSA is the largest and most trusted third-party grading service for collectibles like sports cards. They take raw cards, analyze them closely for any flaws, creases, centering issues or damage and assign a numerical grade of 1 to 10 based on the card’s condition with 10 being gem mint. This grading gives collectors a standardized way to understand the condition and value of their cards.

Looking through the most recent PSA Pop Report, which details census population numbers and values for PSA graded cards, it’s clear that condition is critical to 1987 Donruss card prices. Only a handful of specimens have achieved the coveted PSA 10 gem mint rating. The all-time greats like Tom Seaver, Mike Schmidt, and Ozzie Smith have PSA 10 populations in the single digits, while stars like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, and Greg Maddux have low double digit PSA 10 counts. This extreme rarity drives prices into the thousands for a True Gem 1987 Donruss issue in top condition.

Moving down the grading scale, PSA 9’s (mint) become more abundant but still trade for hundreds to low thousands depending on the specific player and level of demand. The 1987 Donruss set had some star rookies like Barry Larkin and Tim Wakefield who have PSA 9 populations under 100 copies. This maintains strong 4-figure values for their top-graded rookie cards. PSA 8’s (very fine-mint) represent the bulk of the populations for superstars and are where most collectors can realistically expect to find their cards if buying raw from the secondary market. Graded examples in this condition typically sell for hundreds.

PSA 7’s (fine-very fine) start becoming plentiful for most stars but prices tail off sharply, generally in the $50-150 range according to the PSA price guide data. Moving to PSA 6’s (fine) means values are often under $100 except for the true legend cards in demand like Mike Schmidt who cracks $200 in a PSA 6. Anything graded lower than a PSA 6 starts being collection/charityraw for most players as structured demand falls off a cliff. Even common PSA 5’s can hold $10-30 values purely due to nostalgia and the set completion aspect of 1987 Donruss.

While the raw material prices of 1987 Donruss wax packs and boxes have skyrocketted in recent years due to speculators and investors, this does not always reflect the underlying values of the individual graded cards. Savvy collectors focus mainly on PSA population reports to understand true scarcity and secondary market prices. For example, even though a sealed 1987 Donruss box can fetch thousands, the expected return by cracking packs and submitting singles to PSA will often leave you losing money versus simply buying what you want already graded. Understanding grade distributions is paramount for smart collecting and investing in iconic 1980s sets like 1987 Donruss.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1990 Donruss Baseball Card Price Guide and Values

The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was released at the start of a new decade for baseball card collecting. Donruss continued their standard design approach for rookie cards and veteran players in the 288 card base set. Some key rookie debuts included players like Barry Larkin, Juan González, and David Cone. Let’s take a detailed look at prices and valuations for notable cards from the 1990 Donruss baseball card release.

Base Set (Cards 1-288)

The base cards from the 1990 Donruss set feature simple artistic designs showing headshots of players on the front with basic stats printed on the back. Common base cards in near mint condition are worth around 25 cents to $1 depending on the name recognition and skill level of the player depicted. Stars from the late 1980s/early 1990s like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, and Dennis Eckersley can fetch $2-5 for their base rookie cards. Lesser known veterans and role players fill out the base set at prices under 50 cents.

Rookie Cards

Some top rookie cards from the 1990 Donruss set command premium prices when graded and preserved in gem mint condition. Here’s a look at valuations for the most valuable rookie debuts:

Barry Larkin, Cincinnati Reds: Considered one of the premier shortstop prospects, Larkin’s rookie fetched $15-25 in PSA 10 condition early in 2022. Lower graded copies trade for $5-10.

David Cone, New York Mets: As a highly touted pitching prospect, Cone’s rookie sold between $10-15 PSA 10. Most others in average condition sell under $5.

Juan González, Texas Rangers: One of the hardest hitters of the 1990s, González rookie cards reached $12-18 PSA 10. Common copies sell for $3-7.

Larry Walker, Montreal Expos: The future NL MVP’s rookie sold in the $8-12 range PSA 10 in early 2022. Lower grades go for $3-6.

Pedro Martínez, Los Angeles Dodgers: Before emerging as a Red Sox ace, Martínez rookie brought $10-15 PSA 10. Average copies sell for $4-8.

Insert Cards

Donruss usually included various insert cards focusing on specific player achievements, events, or awards. Some popular 1990 inserts include:

Diamond Kings: This 34-card insert honored the best players. Ken Griffey Jr. or Frank Thomas PSA 10 fetch $15-20 each.

Record Breakers: Highlighting milestone stats. Nolan Ryan’s strikeout king insert pulled $8-12 PSA 10 early in 2022.

Turn Back The Clock: Vintage uniforms on 30 players. Ted Williams card reached $10-15 PSA 10.

Leaders: Stats leaders on 24 cards. Wade Boggs batting title fetched $5-8 PSA 10.

Diamond Anniversary: Honoring 50th anniversaries in baseball. Topps Gum Lou Gehrig insert drew $7-12 PSA 10.

Future Star Refractors

The “Future Star” insert set included 20 refractors of top prospects like Griffey, Cal Ripken Jr., and Frank Thomas. These premier rookie refractors regularly fetch over $20 in PSA 10 condition due to their rarity, with top names bringing $30-50+. Even well-centered common copies sell in the $10-15 range.

1990 Donruss Summary

While not the flashiest set design compared to competitors like Topps or Fleer, 1990 Donruss cards remain relevant due to prestigious rookie debuts and inserts highlighting baseball achievements and events. Key rookie cards from players like Larkin, González, and Martínez hold steady demand and value. Plus, coveted inserts such as Diamond Kings and Future Star refractors add premium options for collectors. With straightforward designs and acclaimed rookies, 1990 Donruss endures as one of the most collectible issues of the early 1990s.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE GUIDE

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Introduction to Topps Baseball Cards

Topps has been producing baseball cards since 1952 and has become the most iconic and valuable manufacturer in the industry. They launched the modern era of baseball cards and their designs and players featured have shaped card collecting for generations. With over 60 years of annual sets, Topps holds the record for the most complete run of baseball card issues spanning from the 1950s to today.

This extensive history and huge volume of cards released means the Topps brand dominates the baseball card market. Their designs, players, and parallels have developed cult followings among collectors. As a result, Topps cards are amongst the most actively traded and their rosters of elite players produce some of the hobby’s most valuable vintage and modern collections.

This Topps baseball cards value guide aims to provide collectors with an in-depth look at the brand’s most prized issues, keys cards to watch for, and approximate pricing details to aid researching collections and filling want lists. With the huge range of Topps sets produced since the early 1950s, this guide will focus on some of the highlighted vintage and modern dates that contain the highest valued and most desired cards to collect.

Vintage Topps Value Guide (1952-1979)

The early Topps sets from the 1950s through the 1970s are considered the true vintage era and contain many of the hobby’s most coveted and expensive cards. Here are some of the standout releases and key cards to recognize:

1952 Topps (Bowman had the licensing that year): High values start around the $5,000 mark for complete common sets in VG condition. Stars like Mickey Mantle routinely bring over $10,000 each.

1954 Topps: Huge jump in design quality led to widespread popularity and high values today. Mantles are $15,000+, complete sets $7,000+.

1956 Topps: Color photos added historic appeal. Look for Mantle rookies around $50,000 in good condition.

1957 Topps: Color photos, thin stock made for sharp scans. Complete sets reach $12,000, stars like Mays surpass $30,000.

1958 Topps: First mass-produced cards, known for “funny face” backs. Roberto Clemente rookie a solid $7,000 investment grade card.

1959 Topps: Size increased, design evolved. Complete sets near $15,000, rookie Frank Robinson stands out at $5,000+.

1960 Topps: Often called the “holy grail” set with superb photo quality. Complete mint/near-mint sets over $150,000 when available.

1966 Topps: Sleek design was ahead of its time. Early Rod Carew rookie a $4,000 prospect, complete sets $10,000-15,000.

1968 Topps: ThinCard stock led to sharp scans. Wantlist stars like Aaron routinely $5,000-10,000.

1969 Topps: Hugely popular for the “big three” rookies of Seaver, Reggie Jackson, and Tom Seaver. High grade examples over $20,000 each.

1970 Topps: Growth of “wax boxes” fueled collecting boom. Complete sets $7,000, rookie Thurman Munson a solid $3,000 hitter.

1972 Topps: Glossy, color photo-heavy design stands out. Complete NM sets $6,000, rookie Johnny Bench around $5,000.

1974 Topps: Career-highlight “action” photos drew fans. Nolan Ryan rookie over $15,000 in top grade.

1975 Topps: Steve Garvey rookie emerged as a $4,000 standout. Complete sets $5,000 in top condition.

As you can see from these highlights, the vintage Topps era is home to some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever made. With huge star power from legendary players and innovative designs that moved the hobby forward, these sets will likely always hold significant collector and monetary value.

Modern Topps Value Guide (1980-Today)

While they may not reach the same heights as true vintage, modern Topps releases from the 1980s onwards contain certain parallels, inserts, and short print cards that maintain strong collector followings and prices within the hobby. Here are some standouts:

1986 Topps: Arguably the most iconic modern set for the huge rookie class led by Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Roger Clemens. High grades bring big money.

1987 Topps: Enhanced image quality helped “The Bubble Picker” Griffey Jr. rookie emerge as a long-term $5,000+ steady performer.

1992 Topps: Sharp, clean design with careers highlighted. Complete sets $4,000, stars like Bonds $2,500.

1993 Topps: Ultra-popular for both flagship and Finest sets. Complete Flagship sets $3,000, stars $1,500-2,000.

1994 Topps Gold Label Parallel: Rare 1/100 case parallels featuring current stars. High grades around $2,000 each.

1996 Topps Box Loaders: Short print parallel legends fetch $1,000+. Complete Box Loaders sets over $5,000.

1998 Topps Chrome Refractor parallel: Refractors of stars like McGwire and Sosa around $500 each in top grades.

2001 Topps Opening Day: Stars like Chipper Jones reach $300-$500 depending on autograph/parallel.

2002 Topps 206 Parallels: Popular 1/1 case hits often sell in $500-1,000 range on eBay.

2007 Topps Update Triple Threads Patch Autos: #/10 parallels of stars like Pujols surpass $2,000.

2009 Topps Triple Threads Auto patch: #/5 parallels of stars such as Kershaw, Trout at $1,500+

2011 Topps Update Harper Rookie auto patch: #/10 bring $2,000 plus depending on player autographed.

As you can see, there are still plenty of modern Topps collectibles and parallels that have proven staying power and strong collector demand. While price points may not touch vintage values, certain modern short prints and specialty cards continue to attract interest from today’s active collecting community.

Conclusion

This guide has hopefully provided collectors with a useful overview of some of the most prized Topps baseball card releases from their long and storied history in the hobby. With such a massive volume of sets produced since 1952, Topps dominates the sport in many collector niches. Whether building vintage star collections or chasing modern short prints, Topps baseball cards maintain a premier status among the community. For over 60 years, they have defined the category and capture the spirit of the game through iconic designs and legendary players featured. Their cards remain amongst the most actively collected and make up the blue-chip cornerstones of many vintage and modern portfolios.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1959

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1959 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1959 Topps baseball card set was the sixth series of baseball cards produced by Topps and featured all current Major League players from that season. The 1959 Topps set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and valuable vintage baseball card sets. With its simple yet classic design featuring a player photo on the front and stats on the back, the 1959 Topps cards established the template that Topps would follow for decades. Now over 60 years old, the condition and scarcity of 1959 Topps cards greatly impacts their value. Let’s take a deeper look at what key factors influence the price of these vintage baseball cards and how much some of the most desirable 1959 rookies and stars are worth today.

Set Overview

The 1959 Topps baseball card set contains 598 total cards. The cards feature a black and white player photo on the front with team name and position listed below. Player stats like batting average, home runs, and RBI are printed on the back. The cards have a distinctive yellow border and blue/gray color scheme that gives them a nostalgic, retro appeal. The set is considered complete with cards #1 through #598. Some key details that impact 1959 Topps card values include:

Condition: As with any vintage card set, the condition or state of preservation is extremely important when determining value. Near Mint (NM) or Mint (MT) cards in great shape can demand 10x or more than heavily played (HP) or poor condition cards.

Scarcity: Certain high-number cards from the late 500s range are much harder to find in top condition due to lower print runs. This scarcity drives up their value compared to more common low-number cards.

Autographs/Memorabilia: Any 1959 Topps card that has been autographed by the player or contains a swatch of game-used memorabilia fetches a huge premium. These one-of-a-kind collectibles can sell for tens of thousands.

Rookies: The debut cards of future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan and Hank Aaron are highly sought after and command the highest prices in the set, especially in mint condition.

Now let’s examine value estimates for some key 1959 Topps rookie cards and stars in different grades:

Nolan Ryan Rookie (Card #526)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $15,000-$25,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $8,000-$12,000
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $3,000-$5,000

Hank Aaron Rookie (Card #531)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $12,000-$18,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $6,000-$10,000
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $2,500-$4,500

Willie Mays (Card #1)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $4,000-$6,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $2,000-$3,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $800-$1,200

Sandy Koufax Rookie (Card #489)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $7,000-$10,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $3,500-$5,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $1,500-$2,500

Mickey Mantle (Card #9)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $3,000-$5,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $1,500-$2,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $600-$1,000

As you can see, condition is paramount when determining the value of these vintage 1959 Topps cards. Near-Gem Mint or Pristine examples of star rookies like Ryan and Aaron can sell for over $10,000 each. But high-grade copies of all-time greats like Mays, Mantle and Koufax also command impressive prices. Even commons and short prints from the set have value today for collectors, often $50-150 in NM-MT condition depending on player and scarcity. With their classic design and historical significance, 1959 Topps cards remain a cornerstone of the vintage baseball card market. Condition census examples continue to break records at auction.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1950s

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Baseball cards were hugely popular collectibles in the 1950s as kids traded and chased the cards of their favorite players and teams. Understandably, 1950s baseball cards are highly sought after by collectors today given their nostalgic and historic significance. With the hobby really taking off during this decade, 1950s cards represent the early mainstream years of baseball card collecting in America.

While individual card values can vary greatly based on condition, player, and card set, here is an overview of 1950s baseball card price trends to help collectors get a sense of what different cards from the decade are generally worth. It’s important to note that top graded PSA/BGS gem mint examples of rare cards can sell for exponentially more than the prices listed.

1953 Topps: The 1953 Topps set is considered the most valuable non-rookie card set from the 1950s. Mickey Mantle’s iconic rookie card leads the way, with PSA 10 examples fetching over $2 million. But other stars like Willie Mays, Duke Snider, and Whitey Ford also have four figure PSA 10 value. Complete near-mint sets in PSA 8-9 condition can sell for $15,000+.

1954 Topps: Top rookie cards include Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, and Frank Robinson. Aaron and Clemente rookies in PSA 8 have sold for around $10,000 each. Complete near-mint sets in the $8,000 range.

1955 Topps: Willie Mays’ exciting catch photo makes his card one of the most iconic from the 1950s. PSA 10 Mays cards have sold for over $100,000. Sandy Koufax and Vada Pinson rookie cards in the $1,000-2,000 range depending on grade. Complete sets $4,000-6,000.

1956 Topps: Mickey Mantle leads the way as always. PSA 10 Mantle cards valued at $15,000-20,000. Rookies include Bob Gibson, Luis Aparicio and Don Drysdale. Complete sets $3,000-5,000.

1957 Topps: Often considered the most visually appealing design of the 1950s. Ted Williams’ last card before retiring is highly sought after. PSA 10 Williams cards $5,000-8,000. Complete sets $2,500-4,000.

1958 Topps: Final year of the classic yellow background design. Mantle and Mays remain stars of the set. Complete near-mint sets $2,000-3,000.

1959 Topps: First year of modern white border design. Complete sets $1,500-2,500 depending on condition. Rookie cards include future Hall of Famers Nellie Fox and Earl Weaver.

Bowman: The Bowman set was the chief competitor to Topps in the 1950s. The 1954 Bowman color set led by the Mantle and Mays rookies is the most valuable from the decade. Complete near-mint PSA 8 sets have sold for over $50,000. Individual vintage Bowman rookie stars can reach four figures even in lower grades.

Other 1950s Issues: Sets produced by smaller companies like Red Man, Topps Magic, and Leaf are collector favorites but tend to be more scarce. Complete high-grade sets can sell for thousands. Individual star cards still hold value even from less iconic sets.

When purchasing vintage 1950s cards, buyer beware of forgeries as this was before modern authentication. Working with a reputable dealer is highly recommended. Overall, 1950s cards represent the true roots of the hobby and remain some of the most collectible in the world today given their historic firsts and the iconic players featured from that era. With patience and savvy collecting, set builders can enjoy owning affordable pieces of these classic cardboard treasures.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1936

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Baseball cards from 1936 hold significant historical value as some of the earliest mass produced trading cards for the sport. The 1936 series marked the first year that cards were inserted in packs of gum, helping to popularize the modern concept of baseball cards. Understanding the rarity and condition of 1936 cards can help collectors properly value their holdings or find desirable pieces to add to their collection.

Topps released the only major set of 1936 cards, consisting of a total of 52 cards featuring players from the American and National Leagues. The cards had a distinctive yellow border around a black and white photo of each player. On the back was basic career stats and information. While not the first baseball cards ever made, the 1936 Topps set helped establish the template that card manufacturers would use for decades.

In mint condition, the rarest and most valuable cards from the 1936 Topps set can sell for over $10,000. Two of the true “grails” for collectors are the Honus Wagner and Babe Ruth cards. Only a handful are known to exist in pristine condition, making them extraordinarily rare and pricey. Even in poor condition, these cards can still fetch thousands because of their tremendous historical significance.

Other highly valuable cards from the 1936 set include Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, Mel Ott, and Joe DiMaggio. In gem mint condition, these stars of their era can sell for $3,000-$5,000 each. Condition is absolutely critical, as even slightly played copies may only be worth a couple hundred dollars. Collectors are also willing to pay premiums for autographed or game-used copies of the top stars when documentation is provided.

For more common players in the set, prices vary widely depending on the grade. Solid near mint copies may sell in the $150-$300 range, while very nice exemplars could reach $500. Heavy play can drop a card to $50 or less. The 1936 series is quite fragile due to the thin cardboard stock used, so finding high grade copies in collection is quite challenging. As such, even average condition cards hold value just due to their rarity.

Beyond the superstars, there are still some lesser known but valuable cards to seek out. Cards featuring future Hall of Famers like Bill Dickey, Joe Cronin, and Dolph Camilli in top grades can reach $1,000-$2,000. The Brooklyn Dodgers team card is also highly sought after, potentially reaching $800-$1,200 in pristine condition due to the team’s iconic status in baseball history.

When valuing a collection of 1936 cards, there are a few key factors to consider beyond just the players featured:

Card condition is paramount. Even minor flaws can significantly cut into value. Have cards graded by PSA or SGC for an objective assessment.

Rarity of the specific players and their positions all impact price. Catchers, for example, tend to be more valuable than other fielders.

Complete or near-complete sets can demand premiums over loose singles since finding all 52 cards is very difficult.

Authenticity is also critical, as counterfeits have emerged. Reputable dealers can verify authenticity.

Prices may vary regionally, so research recent auction prices for accurate market valuations of your specific cards.

For collectors, putting together even a partially complete 1936 Topps set in high grades would be an incredible accomplishment due to the set’s great historical importance and rarity of top condition examples. Understanding the value drivers of these early 20th century cards is key to properly assessing one’s collection or finding desirable pieces to add. With proper handling, 1936s can retain their value for generations of baseball enthusiasts to enjoy.