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BASEBALL CARDS HOUSTON TX

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Houston has a rich history with baseball and baseball cards dating back to the early 1960s when the city’s first Major League Baseball team, the Houston Colt .45s, began play. Since that time, Houston has seen the rise and fall of various baseball franchises and card collecting trends. Today, the city remains a hotbed for baseball card collectors and traders.

One of the earliest baseball card shops in Houston was Ace Hobby Shop, which opened in 1964 in the Montrose neighborhood. Owner Ace Abbott was an avid collector himself and sought to create a space where local collectors could meet, trade, and stay up-to-date on the latest releases. Ace Hobby Shop became a staple of the early Houston card collecting scene.

During the late 1960s and 1970s, as the Houston Astros franchise gained popularity following their move to the Astrodome, baseball card collecting truly took off in Houston. Kids could be found trading cards on the playground, in schoolyards, and at local shops. The rise of bubble gum cards inserted in packs of Topps, Fleer, and other brands fueled children’s interest in collecting and learning about their favorite players.

As the 1980s arrived, Houston saw a boom in the number of dedicated baseball card shops as the hobby reached new heights of popularity. Stores like Becks Sportscards, Bob’s Baseball Cards, and Astro Cards catered to collectors of all ages and interests, from novices to the most avid investors. They stocked the latest sets as well as higher-end vintage and memorabilia items. During this “Golden Age” of card collecting, shows were also frequently held around the city where thousands of collectors would gather for a weekend of trading.

In the 1990s, the baseball card market experienced troubles as overproduction led to a crash in values. Many shops could not withstand the downturn and were forced to close. A dedicated core of collectors kept the hobby alive in Houston. Stores like Grey Flannel Auctions transitioned to focus more on appraisals and consignment of rare vintage cards to higher-end collectors. Meanwhile, the internet began to reshape how people could buy, sell, and trade cards online through new platforms.

Today in the 2020s, Houston’s baseball card scene has evolved. While long-gone are the days of stores on nearly every corner, some shops have endured and found ways to adapt. Memorabilia superstore Houston Card Shop in Spring remains a top destination stocking the latest products and memorabilia. Meanwhile, Heritage Auctions, the world’s largest collectibles auctioneer, is headquartered in Dallas but hosts some of the hobby’s most high-profile card auctions in Houston.

Shows also still occur regularly around the city. Some of the largest include the Houston Sports Collectibles Convention each February and Houston Card Show each July, both drawing thousands of attendees for a weekend of trading. Local card clubs and breakers on social media have also picked up some of the slack in providing a community for collectors.

When it comes to valuable Houston cards, some of the most coveted items include stars from the city’s early baseball history like Jimmy Wynn, Joe Morgan, and Jeff Bagwell rookies. Autographs from Astros greats like Nolan Ryan, Craig Biggio, and Jose Altuve can fetch high prices. Iconic vintage cards like a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner and 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle are realistic targets for only the most well-heeled Houston area collectors.

Despite ups and downs, baseball card collecting remains a popular hobby for many residents of Houston today. Whether pursuing the latest parallels and autographs or vintage gems, the city’s rich baseball roots ensure its legacy as a hotbed for the card collecting community will continue long into the future. Local collectors keep the tradition alive through their dedication to the hobby that has been a fabric of Houston’s sports culture since the 1960s.

HOUSTON ASTROS 2018 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2018 Houston Astros baseball cards commemorated the franchise’s first World Series championship. After reaching the Fall Classic in 2005 and losing to the Chicago White Sox, the Astros broke through in 2017, defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games to capture club’s first title. Top rookies like outfielder Derek Fisher and pitcher Francis Martes emerged, joining superstars Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, George Springer and Justin Verlander on a dominant pitching staff and powerful lineup.

The most recognizable cards featured Astros’ biggest stars, starting with 2017 American League MVP and second baseman Jose Altuve. Altuve’s breakout season saw him hit .346 with 24 home runs and 81 RBI while leading the majors in hits. His dazzling play and inspirational leadership fueled Houston’s championship run. Altuve’s iconic 2018 Topps cards showcased his dynamic abilities and cement his status as the face of the franchise.

Young shortstop Carlos Correa also gained widespread attention during the Astros’ title defense. After missing half of the 2017 regular season due to injuries, Correa helped Houston win the pennant by batting .309 with 4 home runs in the ALCS and World Series combined. The 23-year-old’s burgeoning power and Gold Glove caliber defense in the heart of Houston’s lineup made him one of baseball’s rising stars. Correa’s 2018 card highlights captured his blossoming superstardom.

Towering right fielder George Springer turned in another All-Star campaign, batting .283 with 34 home runs and 85 runs batted in. Springer’s athleticism, elite power, and dominant playoff performances in 2017 cemented his place as a cornerstone of Houston’s core. His memorable postseason heroics, including a Game 2 home run in the World Series, made Springer one of the most exhilarating Astros to watch. His 2018 cards celebrated another breakout season.

Veteran ace Justin Verlander also joined Houston via a late summer trade and immediately transformed their rotation. The former Detroit Tigers star went 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA after being dealt, then won two games in the World Series including a complete game victory in Game 2. Verlander’s veteran leadership and overpowering stuff gave Houston a true ace for October. His 2018 cards with the Astros highlighted a new chapter after years in Detroit.

Rookies like outfielder Derek Fisher and flamethrower Francis Martes also received flashy commons and inserts in their debut seasons. Martes missed all of 2018 due to injury but impressed in 2017 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. As young power arms, Martes and fellow rookie Brad Peacock provided promise for Houston’s future rotation. Fisher made his MLB debut in September 2017 and looked poised for an impact role in 2018 before injuries limited him to 69 games.

Veteran starters like Lance McCullers Jr., Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton and Collin McHugh anchored a formidable starting five. Dynamic rookie relievers Chris Devenski and Joe Smith emerged as lights-out bullpen options alongside veterans Ken Giles and Luke Gregerson. Backup catcher Brian McCann and versatile infielder Marwin Gonzalez proved indispensable both offensively and defensively. The depth and talent throughout Houston’s 40-man roster led to championship success.

Parallels, retro variations, autographs and memorabilia cards of stars like Altuve, Correa, Springer and Verlander highlighted insert sets. Rare 1/1 printing plates and red parallel autos fetched top dollar as collectors chased the reigning champs. Extended sets from Upper Deck, Topps, Bowman and Leaf captured breakout players as well as depth roster guys who contributed. International licenses from Panini added to the excitement around Houston’s first title team.

Whether celebrating franchise cornerstones, breakout rookies or role players, the 2018 Houston Astros baseball cards paid tribute to a championship roster that brought Houston its first World Series trophy. Memorable inserts, parallels and autographs enshrined the stars and depth that lifted the Astros to elite status among baseball’s best. With a talented young core and proven playoff pedigree, the future remains bright as Houston aims to repeat its 2017 championship run.

HOUSTON ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros franchise has a rich history that baseball card collectors can chronicle through the years. The team was established as the Colt .45s in 1962 as an expansion franchise and issued their first baseball cards that same year. Those early Colt .45s cards featured players like Manager Harry Craft, Outfielder Jim Pendleton and Pitcher Don Nottebart. The designs on those 1962 Topps cards were basic, as was common for expansion teams in those early years.

In 1965, the team changed its name to the Astros to reflect the city’s contribution to the U.S. space program. Their 1965 Topps baseball cards were the first to feature the Astros logo and name. Top players featured included 3B/OF Jimmy Wynn, P Denny Lemaster and rookie sensation Joe Morgan. Topps and other card companies in the 1960s like Fleer captured the Astros’ early years in Houston before they became a competitive team. Rosters turned over frequently as the team sought to build a contender.

It wasn’t until the late 1960s and early 1970s that the Astros started to field competitive teams. Their 1969 squad that lost to the Miracle Mets in the NLCS featured several future Hall of Famers like OF/1B Jimmy Wynn, P Don Wilson, C/1B Bob Aspromonte and Manager Harry Walker. Their 1969 Topps cards reflected the team’s rise, featuring sharp action shots and team-color borders. Rated rookies from that era like OF/1B Lee May and P J.R. Richard had enduring careers documented in their early baseball cards.

The 1971-1975 Astros teams are considered among the best to never win a World Series. Led by stars like C/1B Larry Dierker, OF/1B Jimmy Wynn, P Don Wilson, 2B/SS Denis Menke and rated rookies like P/DH Ken Forsch, those squads consistently won 90+ games but fell short in the playoffs. Their colorful Topps and Kellogg’s 3D baseball cards from that time are prized by collectors today for capturing the intensity of “The Killer B’s” era Astros teams.

After a dropoff in the late 1970s, the Astros reemerged as contenders in the 1980s. Future Hall of Fame 3B Phil Garner and P Nolan Ryan led the 1979 squad to an NLCS appearance. Ryan’s rare 1979 Topps Traded card showing him with the Angels and Astros is one of the most iconic in the hobby. Rising stars like OF/1B Glenn Davis and P Mike Scott burst onto the scene in the 1980s. Scott’s dominant 1988 season where he won the Cy Young Award playing for Manager Hal Lanier’s division-winning club is legendary.

The Astros broke through in 2005 to win their first World Series behind ace pitchers Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte and coach/ later manager Phil Garner. Stars from that championship squad like OF/1B Lance Berkman, 2B Craig Biggio, SS Adam Everett and rookie sensations P Brad Lidge and OF/1B Morgan Ensberg had memorable rookie and star rookie cards from that era. Biggio’s longevity playing his entire 20-year career with the Astros made him one of the most documented players in team history via annual card issues.

In the 2010s, the Astros emerged as a consistent powerhouse. Behind stars like 2017 World Series MVP and AL MVP George Springer, pitchers Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton and Justin Verlander, and manager A.J. Hinch, the Astros reached new heights, winning 101 games in 2019 and capturing their second championship. Top prospects like SS/3B Alex Bregman bursting onto the scene added to the excitement for Astros card collectors. The scandal surrounding the team’s illegal sign-stealing methods that came to light in late 2019/2020 tainted their accomplishments but did not diminish the historical cards issued of those talented rosters.

Entering the 2020s, the Astros look to add more chapters to their history, hopefully with the talented young core of Yordan Alvarez, Kyle Tucker, Cristian Javier and Jose Urquidy. For over 50 years of cards since those original 1962 issues, collectors can track the evolution of the Houston Astros franchise through the faces and stats captured in annual baseball card sets. Few other teams have such a well documented rich history within the hobby from their emergence as an expansion club to consistent contender status.

BASEBALL CARDS HOUSTON

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The history of baseball cards in Houston is as long and storied as the city’s deep love for America’s pastime. Ever since the Houston Buffaloes took the field as a minor league team in 1888, baseball and the trading cards that commemorated the players have been an integral part of Houston sports culture.

Some of the earliest baseball cards featuring Houston players came in the late 1800s during the deadball era. Cards from sets like Mayo Cut Plug, Old Judge, and T206 showed minor leaguers plying their trade in the Texas League before the city had a major league team. Iconic players like Sherry Magee, Jack Chesbro, and Cy Young appeared on these vintage cardboard issues during their stints in Houston minor league uniforms.

In the early 20th century, Houston continued to be represented in tobacco era sets as the minor league Buffaloes, Braves, and Pirates developed future MLB stars. Goudey’s 1933 Goudey Baseball Cards included the first card of future Hall of Famer Jimmie Foxx from his time in the Texas League. Foxx went on to have a storied career with the Athletics and Red Sox.

The rise of bubblegum cards in the post-war 1950s brought more Houston-connected players to the hobby. Bowman and Topps issues of the 1950s showed future Astros like Joe Morgan, Rusty Staub, and Jimmy Wynn in their early minor and major league days. Topps’ 1956 set was one of the first to feature photos of the new Houston Astros, who began play as an expansion team in 1962 after the city was awarded an MLB franchise.

Speaking of the Astros, their arrival in Houston in 1962 was a boon for baseball card collectors in the city. Locals had their own big league team to root for and collect cards of. Early 1960s Topps, Fleer, and Post issues established Houston stars like Jim Umbricht, Don Nottebart, and Bob Aspromonte as cardboard fixtures in the burgeoning collections of Texas youth.

The late 1960s and 1970s were a golden age for Houston Astros cards, dovetailing with the rise of the franchise’s “Killer B’s” era contenders. Astros superstars like Joe Morgan, Jimmy Wynn, Larry Dierker, and Nolan Ryan achieved iconic status both on the field and in the growing world of modern baseball cards produced by Topps, Fleer, and the like. Their colorful cards from the late 1960s and 1970s Topps and Fleer sets became highly coveted by collectors in Houston and beyond.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Houstonians had no shortage of cards to chase featuring hometown Astros heroes Mike Scott, Glenn Davis, Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, and others. The Run Production Era Astros teams of the late 1980s and 1990s produced some of the most memorable cards in the hobby thanks to stars and memorable photography from flagship issues like Topps, Fleer, and Score. Parallel inserts like Topps Traded and Finest also spotlighted Astros standouts.

Today, Houston remains one of the strongest baseball card markets in the country. New generations of collectors in Texas continue the time-honored tradition of seeking out cards showing the exploits of Astros greats like Lance Berkman, Roy Oswalt, Carlos Correa, and Jose Altuve. Modern parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards of current Astros keep the city’s card shops and hobby hotspots thriving. Vintage Houston cards also remain popular with both local and out-of-state collectors pursuing pieces of the city’s rich baseball history.

From 1888 minor league beginnings to big league present day, baseball cards have been there documenting every step of Houston’s love affair with America’s pastime over more than 130 years. The cardboard collectibles are an indelible part of the fabric linking generations of Houstonians to their hometown nine. Whether chasing vintage Buffaloes or chasing down the latest Classics Astros parallels, baseball cards will always have a special place in the sports soul of America’s fourth largest city.

BUY BASEBALL CARDS IN HOUSTON

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Houston has a rich history with baseball and as a result, the city is home to many stores and dealers where you can buy baseball cards. Whether you are looking for vintage cards, newer releases, or supplies to build your collection, Houston has plenty of options to choose from.

One of the largest and most well-known baseball card shops in Houston is Play It Again Sports located in multiple areas around the city. As the name suggests, Play It Again Sports deals in used and vintage sports equipment and memorabilia of all kinds. Their baseball card selection is vast, with cards from the early 1900s all the way to current releases. They have individual packs, boxes of cards from various years, and plenty of loose commons through star player cards available. Prices range from under $1 for common cards to hundreds or more for rare vintage gems. Play It Again Sports is a great one-stop-shop for all your baseball card needs in Houston.

For strictly new release cards, some of the top local card shops include Collector’s Edge Comics and Cards with locations in Spring and Katy. Collector’s Edge specializes in all the latest baseball card releases from Topps, Panini, Leaf, and more. They get products in immediately upon release so you can find the newest packs, boxes, and memorabilia cards there before anywhere else locally. Collector’s Edge also hosts frequent release events where you can meet the latest box or case to get the best hits fresh out of the pack.

Another excellent Houston card shop for new releases is Great Escape Games with stores in multiple parts of the city. While they focus more on gaming than sports cards, their selection of baseball cards rivals any local shop. Great Escape gets shipments of all the latest baseball card products and also participates in the release party scene. They have the most up-to-date stock of all the newest baseball cards on the market perfect for building your modern collection.

For a more nostalgic vintage baseball card shopping experience, a must-visit is Old Time Baseball Cards located in Midtown. This cramped but charming shop is packed floor to ceiling with boxes organized by year of every imaginable vintage baseball card. Whether you are looking for stars from the 50s, 60s, 70s, or earlier, Old Time Baseball Cards almost certainly has what you need in their vast inventory. Prices vary, but there are always plenty of reasonably priced commons and stars available to add to any vintage collection.

Another top vintage Houston card shop is the Card Shack in Spring. While smaller than Old Time Baseball Cards, the Card Shack has an excellent curated selection of vintage cards from the sport’s earliest years through the 1980s. The owner is extremely knowledgeable about values and can help you find that key card to complete a set or build a team collection. They also buy collections, so it’s a good spot to sell cards and fund new additions to your vintage hoard.

For supplies to care for and organize a baseball card collection, DaCardWorld in Spring is the premier one-stop-shop. In addition to carrying all the latest releases, DaCardWorld stocks every imaginable trading card accessory from toploaders and magnetic holders to full custom card storage boxes, binders, and more. Their supply selection is vast with everything needed to properly store, showcase, and protect a collection of any size. Plus, the friendly staff provides helpful advice on collection organization and preservation.

Online, eBay and Facebook Marketplace are also great resources for buying Houston area baseball cards since many local collectors sell duplicates, team lots and collections there. Just be sure to check seller reviews and ask detailed questions to avoid potential scams. Some top local eBay sellers specialize in Houston area players, Astros cards, or vintage Texas league items perfect for area collections.

Whether you want vintage or new baseball cards, supplies, or advice on building a collection, Houston offers many excellent brick and mortar and online options. With such a rich baseball history in the city, local card collecting remains a popular and accessible hobby. With a little searching, any Houston area fan is sure to find the perfect baseball cards to fuel their passion for the game.

HOUSTON ASTROS WORLD SERIES BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros 2017 World Series championship run produced a wave of commemorative baseball cards celebrating the achievement. For Astros fans, collecting these 2017 World Series cards serves as a way to memorialize and relive the exciting moments from that improbable playoff run.

The Astros defied expectations in 2017 after years of losing to capture their first-ever World Series title. As an underdog fifth seed in the American League, Houston defeated the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers to hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy. Their victory was especially sweet for long-suffering Houston fans after the devastation wrought by Hurricane Harvey earlier that season.

Topps released several subsets to commemorate the Astros’ 2017 championship. Their “World Series Highlights” cards feature iconic photos from key moments throughout the playoffs and Fall Classic. One card shows Jose Altuve celebrating after hitting a walk-off home run to clinch the pennant against the Yankees. Another captures Justin Verlander screaming in jubilation after the final out to win the World Series is recorded.

Topps also issued “World Series Champions” base cards of every player on Houston’s WS roster. These include stars like Altuve, Carlos Correa, and George Springer as well as lesser-known role players who contributed to the title run such as Evan Gattis, Chris Devenski, and Ken Giles. Parallel “Gold Foil” versions of these cards were inserted much less frequently into packs, giving collectors an ultra-rare parallel to seek.

In addition, Topps crafted “World Series MVP” cards to honor Astros pitcher Justin Verlander, who took home hardware after dominating the Dodgers with a pair of wins in the Fall Classic. The standard and also much harder to find “Gold” parallel capture Verlander in his moment of glory accepting the award at the conclusion of the series.

Panini also got in on commemorating Houston’s championship. Their “Momentous Moments” inserts feature pivotal playoff actions. One depicts Altuve tagging up and scoring the go-ahead run against LA in Game 2 on a fly ball to shallow left. Another frozen moment is of Correa gleefully celebrating after hitting a home run off Clayton Kershaw in that decisive Game 5 victory.

Donruss issued a special “Champions” parallel too. In addition to standard base cards, collectors could find pink foil and even rarer Astro-colored versions celebrating the team and players. Donruss also crafted parallels of their “Postseason Performers” inserts highlighting standouts like Dallas Keuchel and Verlander in the playoffs

Among the rarer chase cards were Topps’ 1-of-1 printing plate autographs featuring pieces of the plate used to print that player’s base card. Just one of each of these ultra-valuable signed plates exists. Bowman also contributed to the 2017 Astros commemorative market with prospects like Forrest Whitley signed autographs and parallels of their regular rookies and prospects.

For diehard Astros collectors, the true crown jewel was Topps’ 2017 World Series “Superfractor” parallel card. Reserved for the 2017 Champions subset, it depicts Springer celebrating on the field in extra shiny refractor style numbering only 1 copy in existence. This 1/1 super-short printed card fetched over $10,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever created.

Whether it’s reliving key moments, commemorating players, or seeking out the rarest parallel inserts and autographs, Astros fans continue adding to their collections of 2017 World Series cards years after the fact. The championship run and dramatic playoff victories capture the energy, excitement and achievement of that unforgettable season in Houston. For those who experienced it firsthand or supporters who’ve since jumped on the bandwagon, collecting these commemorative cards serves as a way to preserve the memory and experience of the Astros’ first title for years to come.

SELL BASEBALL CARDS IN HOUSTON TX

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Selling Baseball Cards in Houston, TX

Houston, Texas has a long history with America’s pastime of baseball and as such, the city provides collectors with opportunities to buy, sell, and trade baseball cards. Whether you have a small collection you want to liquidate or you run a store focused on sports memorabilia transactions, Houston offers multiple viable options for moving baseball cards.

Getting Started

The first step in the process is sorting and grading your collection. Take stock of what cards you have, whether they be common issues or higher end rare finds. Make note of condition and consider sending valuable vintage cards to a professional grading service like PSA or Beckett to authenticate and assign a grade. Receiving slabs with high numeric grades can significantly boost card values. It’s also worthwhile to research recent eBay and auction house sale prices to determine realistic market value expectations for your cards.

Selling at Local Stores

Houston is home to numerous brick and mortar shops that specialize in buying, selling and appraising sports collectibles like baseball cards. Some of the top stores in the city to consider selling cards at include:

sportsKards: Located in the Galleria area, sportsKards is a leading Houston retailer known for fair payouts on collections of all sizes. They have multiple locations across the city to choose from.

Baseball Card Exchange: With three Houston shops and another coming soon in Katy, BCX is a major local chain that pays cash for cards daily. They grade submissions in-house and give you an offer on the spot.

The Card Exchange: Situated just outside downtown, The Card Exchange has been a staple Houston card store for decades. They maintain immense retail and online inventory.

Game On: Game On has two shops in the Houston suburbs of Spring and Cypress focusing on all types of collectibles including sports, comic books and more.

When selling to local stores, be prepared to accept prices generally 20-40% lower than private sale values due to retailers needing to make a profit when reselling. The convenience and guaranteed cash payout make these shops a top pick for many collectors.

Selling Online

If you want to maximize profits, listing baseball cards for sale individually or in lots on websites like eBay is usually the most lucrative path. Some basic tips for online selling include:

Take detailed photos showcasing fronts and backs of all cards from multiple angles under good lighting.

Provide clear descriptions including player name, year, set, grade (if applicable) and any identifying markings.

Research recently sold comps to set competitive starting bid/buy it now pricing. Factor in shipping costs.

Package cards securely in penny sleeves, toploaders or cardboard to arrive safely. Consider insurance for valuable shipments.

Communicate professionally with potential buyers and ship orders promptly upon sale.

The e-commerce market gives your cards exposure to a national and even global audience of collectors. Just be aware of listing, payment processing and shipping fees that will eat into your margins versus local store payouts.

Trading at Shows and Events

Don’t forget about the opportunities that frequently occur right in Houston for in-person card transactions. Two of the largest and most notable local conventions include:

National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC): Held annually in early August at the George R. Brown Convention Center, NSCC Houston draws thousands of attendees from across North America to buy, sell and trade. Vendors fill the entire exhibition hall with collectibles on display and available for purchase.

Houston Sports Collectors Show: A biannual November weekend show based in the Energy Corridor offers another chance to buy and sell with hundreds of tables of inventory to choose from.

Swapping cards, meeting dealers and picking up items on your want lists at shows can be a fun experience versus isolated online dealing. Use the gatherings to move both common and valuable inventory. Just be sure to budget time for bartering negotiation and have a willing ear for enjoyable collecting chats with fellow enthusiasts.

Card Shops and More Options Outside Houston

While the options highlighted here provide excellent local opportunities to sell your baseball card collection in and around Houston, don’t discount exploring payouts from retailers beyond city limits as well. Some highly notable Texas shops to consider include:

Play It Again Sports (multiple Dallas-Ft. Worth locations): Chain focuses heavily on sports collectibles including cards across its Lone Star State stores.

Emerald City (Grapevine): Massive near-Dallas warehouse store ranks as one of the country’s foremost sports memorabilia retailers. Always pays top dollar for rare finds.

Collector’s Edge (Austin): Esteemed full-service Central Texas card shop has earned a stellar reputation for great buys and customer service.

Paradise Cards & Comics (San Antonio): Top Alamo City destination for buying, selling and trading all types of cards and collectibles.

As with any financially significant transactions, carefully research the reputation of any shops or individuals you choose to do business with. Always negotiate deals, especially for high dollar cards, with confidence and solid knowledge of fair market values. With the many reliable options for liquidating collections, Houston absolutely presents collectors bountiful opportunities to profit from their baseball card holdings in Texas.

HOUSTON ASTROS 2017 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Houston Astros had one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history, winning their first World Series title. As a result, the baseball cards from Topps, Panini, and other card companies chronicling the 2017 Astros are highly sought after by collectors today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key cards from that championship year.

The centerpiece of any baseball card set is generally the team’s biggest stars and best players. For the 2017 Astros, that meant cards of Jose Altuve, George Springer, Carlos Correa, and Justin Verlander were highly anticipated. Jose Altuve had another massive season in 2017, winning his third batting title with a .346 average. His iconic leap after hitting a walk-off home run in Game 2 of the ALCS ended up being one of the defining images of thepostseason. Altuve’s core rookie card from Topps remains one of the priciest in the hobby, but collectors enjoyed pulling his dazzling photo and stats from ’17.

George Springer also cemented himself as a true superstar in ’17, batting .283 with 34 home runs and 104 RBIs en route to World Series MVP honors. His dynamic play in center field and timely hitting made him a fan favorite. Springer’s ’17 Topps card shows him in mid-swing with terrific action. Carlos Correa had another All-Star caliber year at just 23 years old, providing stellar defense at shortstop while batting .315 with 15 homers. Correa emerged as a clutch postseason performer as well. Meanwhile, Justin Verlander was acquired from Detroit at the trade deadline and proved to be the final missing piece, going 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA in the regular season after the deal. He then led the Astros to the title by winning both Games 2 and 6 of the World Series on the mound.

In addition to stars, baseball card collectors love commemorative cards marking special team accomplishments. For the ’17 Astros, the obvious choice was a World Series Champions card featuring the whole championship roster. Topps captured the celebratory dogpile photo on the field at Dodger Stadium after the final out. There were also special parallel “Gold” and “Silver” versions printed with lower numbers, adding to the prestige. Similarly, Panini produced an Astronomical Moments insert card showing the team toasting champagne in the clubhouse with the Commissioners Trophy. Both are apt keepsakes for any Astros fan.

Beyond the biggest names, collectors enjoyed finding cards of other important ’17 Astros like Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton, Lance McCullers Jr., and Josh Reddick. Keuchel rebounded from an off 2016 with a solid 14-5 record and helped anchor the rotation. As the #3 starter, Charlie Morton came up big in the postseason with a 1.80 ERA over 5 games. Young righty Lance McCullers showed promise when healthy, and Josh Reddick proved a perfect fit in Houston, batting .281 with 13 homers. even role players like Evan Gattis and marwin gonzalez had memorable moments.

Of course, complete sets require cards highlighting accomplishments beyond stats and games. Topps produced an “Autograph Party” insert set where Astros autographed mini cards that were serial numbered to 99 or less. Other inserts in Topps Series 2 highlighted the team’s road to the championship, from “Pennant Winners” to “World Series Champs” parallels. Upper Deck also created “Masterpieces” parallels with crystal-clear photos on 1-of-1 serial numbered cards. Panini went above and beyond with patches and autographs on “Galaxy” parallel inserts as nice bonus content.

Naturally, the most diehard Astros collectors pursued 1-of-1 relic and autograph cards created by premium manufacturers. Examples include Justin Verlander autographs on Diamond Kings cards with serial numbers starting at 1/1, or “Prime Cuts” swatches with serial numbers personally chosen by the player. Higher-end products from Donruss, Leaf, and Triple Threads featured autographs combined with swatches from jerseys or bats for ultimate rarities. Such one-of-a-kind treasures will surely retain huge value for years to come.

In the years since their 2017 title, the Astros have remained one of baseball’s elite franchises. Those championship cards commemorating the first World Series victory in Houston serve as important historical artifacts of that special season. With Hall of Famers like Altuve and Correa leading the way, and Verlander and Springer playing crucial roles, it was truly a magical year deserving of its place in the hobby. Any collector who can add a piece of that 2017 team to their collection should feel incredibly fortunate.

HOUSTON ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Houston Astros Baseball Cards that Could be Worth Money

As one of Major League Baseball’s original expansion teams dating back to 1962, the Houston Astros have a long and storied history spanning over 60 years. During that time, countless Astros players have had their talents immortalized on baseball cards that were produced year after year by the major card manufacturers like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss. While some Astros cards from past eras hold little present day value, there are quite a few issues featuring Astros greats that have the potential to be worth a good amount of money today, especially in top grades. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable Houston Astros baseball cards collectors should be on the lookout for.

1962 Topps Jim Umbricht (#144)
The very first Astros card ever produced is one of the most historical and desirable issues for the franchise. Unfortunately, pitcher Jim Umbricht suffered a fatal heart attack in the Astrodome in early 1963 at just age 33, making his 1962 Topps rookie card quite rare today. High graded examples of this notorious card in Gem Mint condition have sold for over $20,000 at auction. Even well-centered near-mint copies still bring several thousand dollars.

1970 Topps Jim Wynn (#404) & Don Wilson (#444)
Jim Wynn and Don Wilson were two of the early stars that helped bring attention and wins to the young Astros franchise in the late 1960s. Their 1970 Topps rookie cards are among the most significant and valuable from the club’s early era. Wynn’s card in a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade is valued around $3,000, while a PSA 8 copy still fetches $500-800. Wilson’s rookie in top condition exceeds $2,000 as well. Both players’ rookie cards remain quite scarce in pristine condition 50+ years after issue.

1980 Topps Nolan Ryan (#180)
Although he’s more synonymous with the Angels and Rangers, fireballer Nolan Ryan spent 1974-1979 pitching in Houston and cementing his legendary status. His 1980 Topps card as an Astro is one of the more expensive issues from the franchise overall. A PSA 10 Gem Mint example in a team bag recently sold for over $11,000 online. Even well-centered near-mint counterparts still trade hands for $1,500-2,500 depending on the day. Ryan’s dominance and Hall of Fame career make this a must-have card for Astros collectors.

1992 Pinnacle Craig Biggio (#110)
Craig Biggio debuted with the Astros way back in 1988 and became the face of the franchise for years as its all-time leading hitter. His 1992 Pinnacle rookie card is one of the more popular and valuable issues from the early 1990s. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies have broken the $1,000 barrier several times. Meanwhile, PSA 8 near-mint versions routinely sell for $250-400. Biggio’s whole career was spent in Houston, making this a true “astros only” star player rookie to seek out.

1994 Upper Deck Ken Caminiti (#226)
Before winning NL MVP honors with the Padres in 1996, Ken Caminiti played five solid seasons in Houston from 1987-1991. His 1994 Upper Deck card was the first mainstream issue produced as he transitioned to a new team. High grade PSA 9-10 versions have reached $500 due to Caminiti’s eventual stardom and World Series rings. Even well-centered PSA 8 copies in Astros uniforms still attract $100-150.

1994 Upper Deck Jeff Bagwell (#337)
To hardcore Astros fans, Jeff Bagwell is indeed Mr. Astro as he spent his entire 15 year career in Houston. His electric 1994 rookie season was nicely encapsulated in his inaugural Upper Deck card issue which remain highly collected today. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples are valued around $650-800. Meanwhile, a PSA 9 near-mint copy goes for $250-350 given Bagwell’s elite player status and one-franchise career. This is undoubtedly one of the most desired 1990s Astros issues.

1995 Bowman’s Best Craig Biggio (#97)
Biggio’s superscript parallel issues from the mid-90s are also highly regarded, including this scarce 1995 Bowman’s Best refractive parallel. High graded PSA 10 copies of Biggio’s #97 card have changed hands for over $1,000 before. Even PSA 9 examples still attract $350-500 prices due to the refractor technology and star Astros position player featured. Finding high quality examples can be challenging but it’s considered a true Astros cardboard gem from the Junk Wax period.

2004 Topps Jeff Bagwell (#220)
Bagwell’s final Topps regular season card came in 2004 just before injury shortened his final season the following year. As one of the greatest Astros of all-time and hometown fan favorite, his 2004 issue remains a must-have for diehard collectors. A sharp PSA 10 sells for $150-250 routinely. Even off-centered PSA 8 copies still trade for $40-75 depending on demand. Bagwell’s 2004 issue serves as a nice bookend to his spectacular career spent entirely in an Astros uniform.

These are just some of the Houston Astros baseball cards from throughout the years that have the strongest chance of carrying significant collector value today, especially in pristine Gem Mint grades. Of course, there are likely undiscovered older issues featuring former Astros that could surprise as well with the right research. But focusing collection efforts on star players like Biggio, Bagwell, Ryan, Wynn and others who rose to fame primarily in Houston seems a wise strategy for assembling an Astros collection with long term invested value. With the franchise’s deep history since the 1960s, there’s no shortage of desirable vintage and modern cardboard to uncover.

HOUSTON ASTROS BASEBALL TRADING CARDS

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The Houston Astros have a long history that is documented through baseball trading cards stretching back to the early 1960s when the franchise was known as the Colt .45s and played in the midst of Houston’s space race boom. Starting in 1962 just after the team joined Major League Baseball as an expansion franchise, card companies like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss began producing cards featuring the players and uniforms of Houston’s National League entrant.

Some of the earliest Astros/Colt .45s cards featured star players like Joe Morgan, Jimmy Wynn, and Don Nottebart. These early 1960s issues helped baseball card collectors get to know the original Astros players from the dawn of the franchise. In addition to standard baseball cards in packs, the 1960s also saw oddball issues produced. For example, in 1965 Topps produced rack packs and vending machine packages of cards branded specifically for the Astros. These localized issues helped build excitement for the team among local Houston fans.

Entering the 1970s, Houston had rebranded from the Colt .45s to the Astros to better represent the city’s aerospace dominance. This new team name and logo debuted on 1971 issues from the major card companies. Stars of this era included pitching great J.R. Richard and outfield slugger Johnny Bench. The mid-1970s brought Astros’ World Series appearances in 1980 and 1981, led by pitcher Nolan Ryan, second baseman Joe Morgan, and outfielder José Cruz. These postseason runs increased interest in Astros cards from the time.

The 1980s saw the emergence of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, who would become synonymous with Astros franchise history. Rated prospect cards of Biggio in the late 1980s predicted his future stardom. Other stars of the era included pitcher Mike Scott, who won the 1986 NL Cy Young Award and hurled a no-hitter that year. The late 1980s also saw oddball and regional issues continue to be produced, including subsets focused on the Astros by Score and Minor League subsets featuring future Astros.

Entering the 1990s, the “Killer B’s” era took off led by Biggio, Jeff Bagwell, and Lance Berkman. This potent lineup led Houston to a pair of NL Central division titles in 1997 and 1998. Rated rookie cards and early career cards of the Killer B’s from the early 90s are some of the most iconic Astros cardboard in existence today. Upper Deck also produced elegant skyline-adorned Astros inserts in the 1990s that remain extremely popular with collectors. The Astros also donned throwback rainbow uniforms and astronaut-themed jerseys in the 1990s that translated to fun oddball issues.

In the 2000s, Houston added pitchers like Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte, and Roy Oswalt to strong lineups led by Bagwell, Biggio, Berkman, and Carlos Beltran. This helped bring the franchise its first World Series championship in 2005, defeating the Chicago White Sox. Championship sets from 2005 Topps, Upper Deck, and Leaf capture that special season. Stars like outfielder Hunter Pence and first baseman Lance Berkman kept Astros cards popular through the late 2000s until the franchise endured rebuilding seasons.

Entering the 2010s, Houston underwent an organizational rebranding that included switching leagues to the American League in 2013. Early 2010s stars included pitchers Bud Norris and Dallas Keuchel, along with outfielder George Springer. It was the sign-stealing scandal and subsequent 2017 World Series win that most define this era of Astros history in the eyes of fans and the wider industry. Insert sets from 2017 Topps, Bowman, and Stadium Club honoring that championship are some of the most famous in recent memory despite controversy. Today, stars like Justin Verlander, José Altuve, and Alex Bregman keep the Astros atop the AL and in demand for card collectors worldwide.

Through varying on-field success, franchise relocations, and changes of ownership, Houston Astros baseball cards have served as an historical documentation of the team’s over 50 seasons of play. Featuring stars of the past and present, oddball issues, and championship sets, the vast array of Astros cardboard connects generations of fans to the team’s history and evolution from expansion entrant to perennial contender. As the franchise looks to add to its championship legacy in the years ahead, there will surely be many more iconic baseball cards produced to commemorate Astros greatness on the diamond.