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WHAT BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN 2023

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Several factors will influence the baseball card market in 2023 and which specific rookie cards or veteran stars may see increased values. The global economy, popularity of players and teams, important anniversaries, and new players entering the league all have potential to impact demand and prices.

While it’s impossible to predict the future with 100% certainty, there are a few categories of cards that have strong fundamentals pointing toward continued strength or growth. Rookie cards of budding superstars, iconic vintage players, and rare autographed memorabilia hold enduring appeal for savvy collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some top baseball card investment options going into the new year.

Rookie Cards of Emerging Stars:

One of the safest long-term investment strategies is to acquire top rookie cards of young players who have exhibited enormous talent and seem destined for stardom. Cards like these often appreciate in value as the player’s career unfolds and achievements accumulate. Currently, some of the best options in this category would be cards of players like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr, Vladimir Guerrero Jr, and Fernando Tatis Jr. While already quite valuable, demand will likely remain strong and prices could climb higher as these players continue developing into perennial All-Stars and MVP candidates.

Two other names generating a lot of buzz that investors may want to consider are rookie cards for Seattle Mariners rookie sensation Julio Rodríguez and Atlanta Braves star rookie Michael Harris II. Both had phenomenal debut seasons in 2022 that have them positioned as potential future faces of the league. Their rookies carry more risk due to uncertainty, but reward potential is high if they establish themselves as future superstars.

Vintage Stars of the Past:

Iconic cards from the early days of the sport will probably never lose their nostalgic appeal or investment worth. Some legendary names that consistently hold and increase in value include Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Honus Wagner, Ty Cobb and more. While the ultra-high-grade examples of these can command astronomical prices, lower grade versions are still sound long-term holds. Mint condition 1952 Topps Mantle rookie cards, for instance, now sell for millions – but even a low-grade copy retain much of their $100,000+ value.

Another category with vintage appeal includes stars of the 1960s, 70s and 80s like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Pete Rose and others. Modern collectors nostalgic for their childhood have driven renewed interest in these eras. Condition is more important the further back you go, but classic cards depicting these all-time greats from any period represent solid blue-chip investments.

Autograph Cards:

Signed items carry extra cachet for collectors and signed memorabilia has grown rapidly in popularity. Baseball autograph cards offer the dual appeal of the signed player signature alongside the classic design and photo of their specific trading card issue. Top autograph options gaining ground include vintage/legendary stars as well as emerging present-day greats and future Hall of Famers. Given their scarcity and uniqueness, condition is often less crucial for autographed pieces compared to unsigned cards – so they can hold value even with minor flaws.

Some specific autograph cards showing promise are signed rookies or prospect cards for stars like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr, Mike Trout, Aaron Judge and more. Vintage or modern issues signed by the games all-time elite performers are generally always in demand too. With technology improving memorabilia authentication, the autograph market segment seems likely to continue strong momentum.

Anniversary Cards:

Special anniversary or milestone releases celebrating big numbers in a player’s career or special seasons/events sometimes gain traction as good long term holds. For example, cards released for major milestones like a player’s 3,000th hit, 500th home run, or commemorating a World Series championship year tend to hold collector interest. In 2023, a few major anniversaries could bump interest in related cards like the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier or the 25th anniversary of Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire’s epic home run race of 1998 season.

Other Notable Options:

In addition to the categories above, there remain several other baseball card types and players that could see renewed attention driving values upward in the year ahead:

Rookie cards of young All-Star talents like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr. as they continue establishing careers.

Popular modern stars cards like Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, Jacob deGrom who hold perennial value.

Cards related to historic team anniversaries – New York Yankees 100th in 2023, Dodgers/Giants rivalry anniversaries.

RCs for 2023 breakout candidates like Bobby Witt Jr, Adley Rutschman, Spencer Torkelson if they have stellar seasons.

Higher-end vintage sets experiencing renewed collector interest like T206, 1909-11 T206, 1952 Topps, etc.

Rare error cards, oddball vintage issues, uncut sheets holding intrigue for niche collectors.

While prediction is imperfect, focusing investment dollars on top rookie cards of current emerging stars, autograph memorabilia, historical elite players from eras like the 60s-80s, and special anniversary releases offers a solid foundation. With passion and popularity for baseball cards as strong as ever, continued long-term growth seems likely across much of the collectible marketplace. Careful study of the factors at play will help identify choice investment opportunities into 2023 and beyond.

WHAT BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN 2023 TOPPS

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The 2023 Topps baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year. With a brand new design and some promising rookie cards, there are several cards from the upcoming Series 1 release that look like smart investments heading into next season. It’s important to do thorough research, stay diversified, and be aware of risks when investing in any collectibles.

One of the top prospects for 2023 Topps is catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles. As the top overall pick in the 2019 draft and number one prospect in baseball, Rutschman has huge hype surrounding him. He had a strong debut in 2022 and will enter his first full big league season in 2023. Look for his base rookies to gain value if he performs well. His autographs and parallels could appreciate substantially with an All-Star caliber year. Rutschman is one of the safest rookie bets.

Another catcher to watch is Diego Cartaya from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Cartaya cracked the top 100 prospect lists last year and projects to be an impact bat eventually. With elite power and potential for 20-HR seasons in the majors, Cartaya will be one to follow in the minors in 2023. His rookie cards are quite affordable now and hold promise if he continues developing his all-around game. But he carries more risk than Rutschman as further removed from the bigs.

On the pitching side, one of the more elite prospects is Grayson Rodriguez of the Baltimore Orioles. Rodriguez has electric stuff with a mid-to-upper 90s fastball and nasty curveball. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and looks ready for a full-time rotation spot in 2023. His cards have already begun appreciating on the hype surrounding his talent. Rodriguez carries some injury risk, but he’s a potential ace and all-star if he stays healthy long-term.

Another pitcher to target is Tampa Bay Rays hurler Taj Bradley. Although not as renowned of a prospect as Rodriguez, Bradley vaulted up prospect rankings last year with lights-out performance in the minors. With a deep Rays system, he may not debut until 2024, but his stuff is more than ready. Bradley carries some risk as a ‘sleeper’ prospect, but has potential for high returns if he emerges as expected.

Beyond prospects, it’s also worth considering established young stars who could take their games to new heights. Cards of Wander Franco (TB), Bobby Witt Jr. (KC), Julio Rodriguez (SEA), and Jonathan India (CIN) all look like solid long-term investments. While they come with less volatility than prospects, these players each have All-Star/MVP caliber upside if they continue progressing. Their rookie cards remain affordable now and have room to appreciate significantly.

Along with studying prospects and young talent, don’t overlook possible bounce-back candidates. Players like Kris Bryant (COL), Giancarlo Stanton (NYY), and Marcus Semien (TEX) all dealt with injuries or down seasons in 2022 but have proven track records when healthy. Their 2020/2021 rookies or parallels have dipped in value and hold resale potential if they regain all-star form. There is inherent risk betting on bounce-backs, but also potential for 5x+ returns.

When considering any 2023 Topps investments, do your research on a player’s talent, situation, medicals, and competition for playing time. Stay diversified across several prospects and avoid going all-in on any single one. Authentic vintage hobby boxes hold less volatility than modern singles/repacks as well. And always keep a long-term 5-10 year mindset – that’s generally how long it takes for prospects to pan out or rookies to appreciate significantly. With patience and study, 2023 Topps provides several opportunities for savvy investors to grow their baseball portfolios.

While prospects like Rutschman, Rodriguez and Bradley offer early potential, also consider building balanced exposure to young stars and buy-low bounce-back candidates. Approach 2023 Topps investments with thorough research, risk mitigation, and patience for long-term upside. By choosing wisely across the prospects, rookies, and veterans highlighted here, savvy collectors have a strong chance to profit on the next generation of baseball greats they can find in the upcoming flagship release. Remember that investing in collectibles always carries risk, so stay diversified across several parallel positions. With research and care, 2023 Topps may yield considerable returns for discerning investors.

WHAT BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN

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When it comes to investing in baseball cards, there are a few main factors to consider including the player, the year, the condition and the rarity of the card. Focusing on cards that meet certain qualifying criteria can help optimize your chances of high returns.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing baseball cards to invest in is the player. You’ll want to focus on future Hall of Fame players, especially those who are still actively playing. Investing in cards of legends like Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb and Honus Wagner can pay off hugely due to their historical significance, but those cards will also be quite expensive. A better strategy may be to target cards of modern stars who are shaping their legend like Mike Trout, Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto or Fernando Tatís Jr. While they carry more risk if the player doesn’t pan out as expected, their cards should appreciate substantially as they continue performing at an elite level and move closer to Cooperstown.

The year of the card is also a major factor. Rookie cards almost always carry the greatest return potential since they were the first card issue featuring a player in their MLB career. Other early career cards from a star player’s first few seasons can also appreciate well. For example, investing in 2nd or 3rd year cards of Trout or Acuña could yield strong gains as they cement their greatness. Vintage cards from the 1950s and 60s are also desirable thanks to their age, historical significance and limited surviving population after decades of wear and tear. Cards from the early 1970s onward tend to have much larger surviving populations and more moderate return potential.

Condition is key when choosing cards for long-term appreciation. Only cards graded Gem Mint (GM) 9 or higher by reputable grading services like PSA or BGS have a realistic shot at significant growth over decades. Lower grade cards may show diminishing returns or even losses as condition issues like creases, corners/edges wear or centering problems become more glaring over time. Therefore, only cards with minimal or no visible flaws in high-end encapsulated holders should be considered. While this does drive up initial investment costs, it helps maximize long-term value preservation.

Rarity must also be taken into account. Common base cards even of all-time great players are unlikely to ever be worth more than a few dollars. Focusing on scarce parallel, serial numbered, autograph or rare insert cards provides the best shot at strong returns. For example, rare serial numbered rookie patches or autographs of current stars have immense potential. Also consider scarce vintage parallels, insert sets from the 90s/2000s or 1/1 printing plates which have built-in scarcity. Be wary of cards with artificially inflated rarity through trickery like sticker autographs, as those usually don’t hold value well long-term. Always thoroughly verify authentication and research print runs.

With all these factors in mind, here are some specific baseball card investments to consider:

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (PSA 9): Widely regarded as the most valuable/iconic card in the hobby. Prices have steadily risen over $2M recently. Future blue-chip investment.

1998 Bowman Chrome Refractors #1 Juan Soto (BGS 9.5+): Extremely rare refractors of current superstar could rival Mantle long-term. Prices already in 5 figures at highest grades.

2003 SP Authentic #’d /999 Mike Trout Autograph (BGS 9.5): Prized 1st Trout auto with finite serial number. Values skyrocketing as he nears all-time status. Could pass $100K soon.

2007 Bowman Chrome Draft Refractors #81 Kris Bryant (BGS 10): Perfect 10 rookies of MVP caliber stars tend to set records. This one could top $50K within 5 years barring injury.

2010 Bowman Sterling #’d /50 prospects Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Patch Autograph (BGS 9.5): Guerrero has superstar potential, and this scarce jersey patch auto from his prospect days brings it all. Values are exploding here.

2012 Topps Update #166 Ronald Acuña Jr. Update Debut (PSA 10): Mint flawless update debut from when Acuña was a little known prospect. His breakout stardom made these a major sleeper that could double up in just 1-2 years.

2014 Topps Update #US400 Mike Clevinger (PSA 10): Infamous ultra-short print of lesser known player. Cards that carry uniqueness and scarcity continue gaining steam. Could be a 1000x bagger over time.

The keys are targeting modern star players still forging their legend, choosing their earliest career and especially rookie cards at the highest gem grades possible, and favoring scarce parallels,autos and unique short prints which can appreciate exponentially based on scarcity factors. Focusing investments in this manner gives the best outlook for strong long-term returns in the baseball card market.

WHAT BASEBALL CARDS SHOULD I INVEST IN

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There are several factors to consider when deciding which baseball cards to invest in. One of the most important things to evaluate is the track record and career of the player whose card you want to buy. Investing in stars who had long, successful careers and put up big numbers tends to be a safer long-term investment compared to players who had only a few great seasons. All things equal, cards of players with Hall of Fame caliber careers like Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Nolan Ryan, etc. will generally hold their value better over decades compared to flashy yet relatively short-lived talents.

It’s also important to focus on cards of players from earlier baseball eras, pre-1990s typically. Cards from the late 80s and early 90s up until today’s players have much higher print runs due to advances in printing technology. This means they are more plentiful on the secondary market long-term, making impressive price growth more difficult compared to rare vintage cards from the 1950s and prior. Very low-numbered and rare pre-war T206 cards, early 1900s Tobacco cards, and 1950s+rookie cards of all-time greats that were printed in far fewer quantities offer huge investment upside due to their scarcity.

Within modern player cards to target, you’ll want to focus on the biggest stars who played within the last 20-30 years that collectors truly love and will pay top dollar for decades from now. Players like Ken Griffey Jr, Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Alex Rodriguez, Mike Piazza and Pedro Martinez come to mind here. While risks are greater with active vs retired players, cards of current dominant superstars like Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, and Ronald Acuna Jr. could prove to be excellent long-term investments as they build their careers.

Rookie cards in particular have excellent investment potential across eras. While the most famous and expensive rookies currently are those of Michael Jordan due to higher collecting crossover, premier rookie cards from the MLB that are in top condition offer big returns as well. Examples include Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, Roger Maris, Tom Seaver, Cal Ripken Jr., and those mentioned above. Early 1950s-70s rookie cards offer the highest upside while 90s+rookies may have lower returns given larger print runs.

Beyond individual players and their most iconic rookie cards, there are also certain historic sets from earlier eras that long-term investors would be wise to accumulate. Complete examples in high mint condition of the 1952 Topps, 1956 Topps, 1969 Topps, and 1976 SSPC/Traded/Record Breakers/Super sets will hold value best as they become increasingly rare. Pick the stars within and you have all-star collections that will likely appreciate substantially in the years ahead.

Condition is absolutely critical to consider as well. Only cards in top grades like Mint/Near Mint 9-10 should be targeted, as poorly-kept lower grade examples may not fetch much over face value decades later as supplies increase. Always inspect cards closely yourself or have an expert review first before investing significant money. Authenticity is another factor – only purchase from established dealers with guarantees to avoid fake cards, a growing problem in the lucrative vintage market.

Diversifying between star players across eras, sought-after rookie cards, and complete vintage sets spread out investment risk versus concentrating on just one or two assets. Patience is key as well – cards bought and held for 20+ years provide the greatest chances for impressive price gains due to long-term shortages. While short-term flipping can lead to profits, steady additions of top-condition collectibles when prices are reasonable tend to produce the best results over the long run for savvy baseball memorabilia investors.

WHAT ARE THE BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN

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One of the top baseball cards to consider investing in are rookie cards of star players who have had exceptional careers. Rookie cards tend to hold their value very well or even appreciate significantly over time if the player goes on to achieve great success in the majors. Some examples of expensive rookie cards that have done extremely well as investments include Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, Aaron Judge, and Ronald Acuña Jr. While these are very costly now, their rookies came out within the past decade when cardboard was not as valuable. Cardboard from the 1980s and prior has seen much bigger price increases on star players compared to only 10-20 years ago.

Iconic star players from the 80s, 90s, and earlier whose rookie cards have skyrocketed include Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Roger Clemens, and Greg Maddux. For these all-time greats, even high-grade copies of their rookie cards from Topps, Fleer, or Donruss have appreciate tremendously over the past 30+ years. Vintage rookie cards in mint condition for Hall of Famers are some of the best long term investments in the hobby. Be prepared to pay top dollar for the most coveted originals considering how long they have been investments appreciated greatly in value.

For newer investors working with more moderate budgets, post-rookie cards early in the careers of franchise players before they broke out can offer strong appreciation potential if the player blossoms into a superstar. Examples include cards from Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr, Fernando Tatis Jr, Vlad Guerrero Jr, Ozzie Albies, Juan Soto and Shane Bieber’s first few major league seasons. These provide an opportunity to invest in the early years of what could become generational talents at a lower price point than exorbitant rookie cards. Patience would be required to allow their careers to unfold and the cards to potentially increase substantially in the long run.

Since the 1980s saw the birth of modern sports card collecting fueled by the arrival of stars like Sandberg, Clemens, McGwire, and Bonds, that decade’s cardboard is some of the most sought after, and therefore expensive/appreciated cards. The iconic 1986 Topps set led by Ken Griffey Jr., Donruss and Fleer rookies for Chipper Jones, Jim Abbott, and Billy Ripken are legendary. Pre-war tobacco cards from the 1910s featuring legends like Cy Young, Walter Johnson, and Honus Wagner are highly valuable but inaccessible for most collectors. There are plenty of cost-effective vintage investments from the 1950s-70s as well that can stash away profits over the decades. Players like Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron, Reggie Jackson, and Nolan Ryan have affordable starting points for their older cardboard that can gain value in the long haul hold period.

When considering specific sets, series, and years from the late 80s through the 90s steroid era are top performers for growing investments. This period saw explosive interest in the hobby and record sales. Stars of that generation like Bonds, Griffey Jr, Clemens, McGwire and Sosa engrossed the entire nation in home run chasing which spiked demand and prices for their cards. Specifically, fleer and score series from 1989-1992, Topps Finest and Ultra cards from 1995-2001, and SP Authentic and Topps Chrome rookies/refractors through the 2000s are prized by collectors and have appreciated greatly. Later in the 2000s and 2010s, Topps Update and Topps Chrome retail exclusives featuring prospects, parallels, and autographs gained incredible traction and prices for stars like Harper, Acuna, deGrom and more.

While the spotlight shines brightest on star players, sets and parallel/insert cards can deliver handsome returns as well. Complete flagship sets like 1972 Topps, 1955 Bowman, 1987/94 Fleer, and 1989 Upper Deck are blue-chip investments respected across the hobby. Autograph and Memorabilia cards late 90s through today’s era for household names like Jeter, Chipper, Trout, Judge provide accessibility at reasonable beginner levels too. Parallel and short-print cards tend to gain collector enthusiasm fast which spikes demand – making rainbow collector building a lucrative specialty area especially for parallels from the 1990s-2010s.

When investing in vintage or modern baseball cards, focusing on star players throughout history whose careers have stood the test of time as well as higher-end serial numbered parallels offers long-term potential for strong appreciation. Rookies, early career success years, complete sets from booming eras, and auto/mem cards provide a blend of cost levels to allow growth portfolios for any budget. With patience, a keen eye on the careers and collecting trends, and buying low – baseball cards can deliver handsome and often surprising returns that easily outpace traditional investments over decades.

HOW TO INVEST IN BASEBALL CARDS

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Investing in baseball cards can be a fun and potentially profitable hobby. It’s important to do your research, choose cards wisely, and have realistic expectations about the potential returns. Consider the following tips when looking to invest in baseball cards:

Set clear investment goals. Are you looking for short-term flips, long-term holds, or a mix of both? Having defined goals will help guide your card selection and selling strategies. You’ll also want to determine a total budget to work with and how much risk you’re comfortable taking on.

Focus on star players from the past and present. Cards of legendary players like Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, and more from the early 20th century are always in high demand and have great long-term appreciation potential. For modern players, focus on recently retired superstars or current MVP candidates who are young enough to potentially have Hall of Fame careers. Players with popular brands or media exposure tend to retain interest and value too.

Pay close attention to grades and condition. Highly graded vintage cards in Mint or Near Mint condition command the biggest premiums. For modern issues, aim for Mint+/Gem Mint 10 grades which are increasingly important to sophisticated investors and collectors. Heavily played or damaged cards have drastically reduced value potential no matter the player. Take the time to properly inspect cards in-hand before purchasing. Reputable third-party grading from companies like PSA, BGS, SGC adds assurance and liquidity when it’s time to sell.

Diversify your portfolio. Don’t put all your investment dollars into a single card, player, team, or year of issue. Having a varied collection mitigates risk from any one holding significantly dropping in value. Build a portfolio with cards from different eras, positions, and condition grades. Opt for quantity over single ultra-expensive cards whenever possible for beginners.

Pay attention to what’s trending on the current hobby landscape. Certain players, teams, uniform variations and special card sets tend to attract more attention and demand from collectors at any given time. Staying plugged into the latest community buzz through online forums and social media can give you an edge in anticipating future appreciation drivers.

Buy low and be patient. Unless you get incredibly lucky, don’t expect to flip cards for a meaningful profit in the short term. Prices fluctuate and it can take years for early investments to really gain in value as a player’s career develops or nostalgia builds. Look for opportunistic purchases during downturns in the hobby market. Have buy orders set at attractive price points and be willing to hold cards for 5-10 years or more for the best returns.

Consider modern parallels and memorabilia cards as alternatives to vintage. These offer more upside potential thanks to smaller print runs. Rare autograph, Patch, or 1/1 serial numbered cards of star players have a good chance to be worthwhile long term keepsakes even if they don’t pan out as true investments. They also provide more options within a budget.

Account for potential costs of grading, supplies, membership fees. Having top loaded one-touch magnetic holders, Team Bags for storage, appropriate boxes, a membership to track values on sites like PWCC Marketplace, and budgeting for periodic grading submissions all factor into the total cost of properly managing and maintaining a baseball card portfolio over time.

Regularly re-assess your holdings. Over time, re-evaluate which cards in your collection continue to align with your investment goals and market trends. Be open minded to potentially selling cards that have appreciated nicely or lost favor to reinvest proceeds into better opportunities. Taking some gains helps fund ongoing purchases and keep your portfolio dynamic.

Properly researching players, studying the market, practicing patience, and learning to appreciate nuances like condition and card serial numbers takes time but allows investors to prudently grow baseball card holdings into significant assets. With dedication, following prospective stars’ careers pan out can lead to great long-term returns that fuel further participation in the hobby. Consistency and discipline are keys to success in this arena like any other investment class. By constantly improving your skills and knowledge over many years, serious collectors can build invaluable collections.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN

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When it comes to investing in sports memorabilia, few items hold as much intrigue and potential value as vintage baseball cards. With their rich history spanning over a century, classic baseball cards offer a unique opportunity for collectors to own authentic pieces of America’s pastime. While the hobby underwent a speculative boom and bust period in the late 1980s and early 1990s, today’s steady market presents savvy investors a chance to build portfolios centered around the iconic cardboard treasures of the sport.

When seeking out premier baseball cards to potentially appreciate in worth, it’s crucial to target mainstream rookies, legendary Hall of Famers, and recognizable stars whose on-field achievements solidify their lasting impact. Condition also plays a monumental role, as the finest specimens can command premium dollar figures. With that in mind, here are some of the top baseball cards that research suggests may be smart long-term holds based on historical performance and inherent scarcity.

Honus Wagner – T206 (1909)
The undisputed rarest and most prized card in the entire collecting universe, any Wagner in good condition would be a monumental get. Only around 60 are known to exist, with just a handful graded higher than Excellent. Prices start in the millions even for low-grade copies. The card’s mystique and first superstar subject make it the undisputed heavyweight champion.

Babe Ruth – Sporting News (1914)
As one of the earliest professionally photographed cards of Ruth before his 1919 breakout season with the Red Sox, it captures him as a promising young pitcher for the Red Sox. Low population with around 10-15 known and prices currently around $250,000 even in poor condition due to the card’s significance as one of the earliest Babe Ruths.

Mickey Mantle – Topps (1952)
The Mick’s rookie card is the pinnacle of post-WWII baseball memorabilia and seen by many as the modern ” rookie holy grail.” Approximately 50,000 were printed and it has historically grown in value faster than any other card. High-grade examples now sell for over $1 million and will likely continue its record-breaking appreciation.

Sandy Koufax – Topps (1955)
While not technically his true rookie since it was issued a year after his debut, it marks Koufax’s first major card as an established young lefty with the Dodgers. Supremely scarce in high grades due to production flaws with around only 5-10 grading a 9 or better. Prices start at $50,000 today and should only rise as one of the finest post-war pitchers.

Nolan Ryan – Topps (1968)
As the first card featuring the fiery Texan hurler as a full-time member of the Mets rotation, it captured the beginning of his storied 27-year MLB career. Around 1,500 are believed extant, with fewer than 10 earning the lofty grade of PSA 10. Currently trading hands for $100,000+, this pickup is a no-brainer for Ryan collectors.

Mike Trout – Topps (2012)
Still early in the Angels outfielder’s generational career, already the Trout rookie stands out as one of the best long-term speculations due to his age (still just 29), production, and brand. Roughly 2 million printed, but high grades now at $10,000+ and escalating each year alongside Trout’s accomplishments and record-setting stats. Future first-ballot HOFer.

Barry Bonds – Topps Finest Refractor (1998)
Widely viewed as the most iconic Bonds card during the peak of his offensive prowess in the late 90s/early 2000s. The refractive tech adds immense allure, as fewer than a dozen PSA 10s are known to exist. With controversy still swirling around the Steroids Era, it’s already doubled from a $5,000 card just a few years ago. Scarcity will drive future increases.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Upper Deck (1989)
The smooth-swinging Junior’s very first professional card ranks among the most sought rookie issues of the modern age. Around 35 graded PSA 10 currently, with values in excess of $20,000. Griffey’s boyish charisma, effortless power, and premature retirement only adds to this card’s long-term potential. A true long-term hold.

Anthony Rizzo – Bowman Platinum Blue Refractor Auto /25 (2012)
For budget-friendly alternative to the heavy-hitting cards above, Rizzo presents an intriguing option due to his sustained excellence, likability, and under-the-radar collecting status. Refractors number to just 25 copies, already appreciating from a $600 issue in 2017. He remains a cornerstone Cub with forthcoming HOF chances.

Luis Robert – Bowman Chrome Purple Refractor Auto /50 (2019)
One of the flashiest young outfield prospects to enter the majors in decades, Robert’s tools and results have lived up to the hype so far. Collectors are high on his long-term superstardom, driving purple refractor autos from under $1,000 to $3,000+ in less than a year since his MLB debut. Tremendous potential returns ahead as his legend grows.

Christian Yelich – Topps Update Paper Black Border /50 (2018)
Yelich was already an established star when dealt to Milwaukee, where he exploded into the NL MVP in 2018 behind a meticulous, balanced all-fields approach. Just 50 of this social media-popular black border variant exist, still affordable under $500 but set to rise steadily as the Brewers’ anchor blossoms into his prime years.

Fernando Tatis Jr. – Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Refractor Auto /99 (2019)
As one of the most exciting young athletes across all sports, Tatis’ cards have predictably skyrocketed in the wake of back-to-back 30-30 seasons. This flashy Topps issue numbers under 100 and remains obtainable under $1,000, an absolute steal considering his already legendary plays, hype, and status as the new face of San Diego’s franchise. Tatis is seemingly just getting started.

This covers a diverse selection of 10 premium baseball cards from varied eras, levels of scarcity, and player pedigrees that data suggests offer rationale long-term upside in an often unpredictable market. Condition is paramount, so always verify top grades preferably through reputable certification. With patience and the inherent strength of these subjects, maintaining or growing value seems plausible outcomes for disciplined collectors. Of course, past performance never guarantees future results. But for risk-tolerant investors, collectible cards of baseball’s icons remain a uniquely engaging way to hold onto a little skin in the game.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN 2020

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With the baseball season delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, many collectors have turned their attention to the hobby of baseball card investing. While it’s always risky to predict future returns, there are certain cards from years past that have shown steady appreciation and seem well positioned for continued growth. Doing the research on players, conditions, and market trends can help identify cards with the highest chances of long term investment success.

One of the most sought after rookie cards remains the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 10. Only a handful are known to exist in pristine gem mint condition and they regularly sell for well over $1 million each. The card depicts Mantle as a rookie for the New York Yankees and captures one of the all-time great players at the very start of his Hall of Fame career. As one of the earliest and most iconic Topps cards ever made, it will likely remain the crown jewel of any collection for decades to come.

For investors looking for a more reasonably priced Mantle card, his 1955 Topps rookie card graded PSA 8 still carries an impressive resume but at a fraction of the $1 million+ price tag. Even well-worn copies in PSA 5 condition command five figures due to Mantle’s enduring popularity and the scarcity of high grade copies from his true rookie season over 65 years ago. The 1955 Topps set is also the first to feature player photos, making Mantle’s debut card an important piece of baseball card history.

For investors focused specifically on modern rookie cards, perhaps no player holds more promise than Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger. His 2017 Topps Baseball rookie card has already shown strong appreciation since his breakout 2019 season that saw him claim NL MVP honors. High grade PSA 10 copies have increased in value more than five times over and still seem undervalued given Bellinger’s elite talent and marketability at just 24 years old. As long as he stays healthy and productive, his rookie card could end up being one of the best long term investments from the 2010s.

Another recent star poised to drive demand for his rookie card higher is New York Mets pitcher Jacob deGrom. Since winning the NL Cy Young award in consecutive seasons in 2018-2019, deGrom mania has taken hold in the hobby. His 2014 Topps Baseball rookie card has seen a similar price trajectory to Bellinger, with PSA 10 copies selling for $1,000 or more compared to just $100-200 a few years ago. At 32, deGrom is entering his prime and could cement a Hall of Fame case with a few more elite seasons.

For investors seeking cards from all-time greats still within reach, Ken Griffey Jr’s upper deck rookie card from 1989 is hard to top. Even well-centered raw copies can be acquired for under $100 and there are still plenty to be found. Once considered among the most common and affordable star rookies of the junk wax era, appreciation has been steady as Griffey’s legend has grown since retirement. High grades around PSA 8 have increased fivefold or more in the last 5 years alone. With such a large original print run long since dispersed across the globe, upside remains for continued long term growth.

Another iconic rookie from the late 80s/early 90s to consider is Barry Bonds from Topps debut season in 1986. Bonds went on to shatter the single season and career home run records that were held by Hank Aaron. His rookie card has followed a similar upward trajectory to Griffey in recent years and there is potential for much more if he ever gains entry to the Hall of Fame. Even well-centered raw copies can be found for under $50, making this an affordable all-time great to hold long term.

For investors seeking cards of current young stars who have already shown superstar potential, Ronald Acuña Jr’s 2018 Topps Update Series rookie card stands out. Since breaking out with a 41 home run season in 2019 for the Atlanta Braves, Acuña mania has taken hold. High grades around PSA 10 have increased fivefold to tenfold already and the 21-year-old has MVP caliber ability that should drive demand higher over the next decade. With a massive arm, speed, and prodigious power, Acuña has drawn comparisons to Griffey and could develop into a similar generational talent and icon for collectors. His cards still have plenty of room to appreciate further.

Another budding superstar to consider is Juan Soto, whose 2018 Topps Update Series rookie card has also seen rapid increases since his breakout 2019 season with the Washington Nationals at just 20 years old. The lefty slugger finished second in the NL batting race and is one of the most exciting young hitters in baseball today. His cards have been hot and there is potential for Soto to follow career trajectories of Miguel Cabrera, Albert Pujols or even Ted Williams as one of the game’s all-time great hitters. Even PSA 9 copies of his rookie card have more than doubled since last year and seem like a bargain for the potential returns if Soto fulfills his lofty potential.

For investors seeking Hall of Fame talent at a bargain, Mike Piazza’s rookie card from 1992 Topps could be a solid long term hold. The future Mets star was taken in the 62nd round of the 1988 draft but went on to smash more home runs than any other catcher in history. Even well-centered copies can still be found for under $20. With Piazza set to gain Hall of Fame entry soon, there could be further appreciation ahead as collectors seek out one of the game’s all-time great power hitters. At under $20 with potential HOF validation still coming, this seems like a low risk choice for steady long term returns.

While risk always exists in any investment market, baseball cards have shown to hold value better than most collectibles over decades. By doing research on players, conditions, and market trends, investors can feel confident certain vintage and modern rookie cards seem well positioned for continued growth. Focusing on iconic players from history alongside today’s emerging young stars helps balance risk while maintaining upside. Cards like Mantle, Bonds, Griffey, Piazza, Acuña, Bellinger and Soto fit those criteria and appear to have strong cases for long term investment success, even during periods of broader economic uncertainty. With patience and the right cards, the baseball hobby can be an enjoyable way to build wealth over time.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO INVEST IN 2016

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With the baseball season in full swing, many collectors are looking to the hot prospects and rising stars of the game as potential long-term investments in the baseball card market. While iconic vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s will always hold value, today’s savvy collectors are focusing on cards of current players who have breakout potential. Some analysts are even predicting a rebound in the baseball card market overall in 2016. With that in mind, here are some of the best baseball cards to consider investing in for this year and beyond:

Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels (2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Picks Refractors #66) – Widely considered the best all-around player in baseball today, Trout has already cemented himself as a future first-ballot Hall of Famer despite only being 24 years old. His rare 2009 rookie card from Bowman Chrome is one of the key chase cards on the market. Only 99 copies of the refractors version were produced, and gem mint copies have already started to eclipse the $10,000 price point. With Trout in the prime of his career and signed long-term with the Angels, his cards should continue appreciating significantly for years to come.

Bryce Harper, Washington Nationals (2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Picks Refractors #88) – Like Trout, Harper has established himself as a true five-tool superstar at a very young age (23). Also limited to just 99 copies produced, Harper’s prized rookie refractors from Bowman Chrome have already more than doubled in value over the past year. He’s signed through the 2018 season in D.C. and could push Trout for the mantle of best player in baseball before long. Condition-sensitive Harper rookies are a sound portfolio addition.

Mookie Betts, Boston Red Sox (2014 Topps Update #US-MB) – Betts exploded onto the scene in 2015 by winning the American League batting title at age 22 while playing stellar defense in right field for the World Series champs. He’s signed through 2020 and is poised for superstardom. His affordable 2014 Update rookie is primed to appreciate significantly as Betts’ career blossoms. Look for a price spike if he wins AL MVP this season.

Corey Seager, Los Angeles Dodgers (2015 Bowman Chrome Prospects #BCP90) – Widely considered a can’t-miss prospect coming up through the Dodgers system, the 21-year-old Seager has wasted no time proving it in the majors. His slick defense at shortstop and advanced hitting skills have him looking like a perennial All-Star. The prized 2015 Bowman Chrome rookie is still under $100 but should multiply in value as Seager locks down the Dodgers position for years to come.

Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs (2015 Topps #373) – After winning NL Rookie of the Year honors in 2015 while helping to lead the Cubs’ revival, Bryant looks poised for superstardom on baseball’s biggest stage in Chicago. His affordable flagship Topps rookie card is an easy addition for any portfolio. With his five-tool skills and the Cubs’ World Series aspirations, Bryant’s star will only continue rising.

Carlos Correa, Houston Astros (2015 Topps #373) – The first overall pick in the 2012 draft, Correa has quickly developed into a cornerstone player for the improving Astros at just 21 years old. His slick defense and mature approach at the plate have drawn comparisons to a young Derek Jeter. The affordable 2015 Topps rookie is a bargain for such a polished young talent who could be collecting hardware for years in Houston.

Noah Syndergaard, New York Mets (2015 Topps Update #US-NS) – “Thor” has burst onto the scene as one of the most dominating pitchers in baseball in his first full season. The sheer power of his right arm has drawn comparisons to a young Randy Johnson. His affordable 2015 Update rookie is a great long-term play on continued success with the Mets. Look for his card values to spike if he wins the NL Cy Young in the coming years.

Francisco Lindor, Cleveland Indians (2015 Topps Update #US-FL) – Still just 22, Lindor has already established himself as one of the premier young shortstops in baseball. His combination of slick defense, speed, and a polished hitting approach have him looking like a perennial All-Star for years to come in Cleveland. His affordable 2015 Update rookie is poised for big returns as Lindor’s star continues rising.

Dansby Swanson, Atlanta Braves (2015 Bowman Chrome Prospects #BCP60) – The number one overall pick in the 2015 draft, Swanson rocketed through the minors to make his MLB debut by the end of the season. He immediately showed polished all-around skills that have the Braves viewing him as their shortstop of the future. His rare rookie cards from 2015 Bowman Chrome are still very affordable but should multiply in value quickly as Swanson establishes himself in Atlanta.

Julio Urias, Los Angeles Dodgers (2015 Bowman Chrome Prospects #BCP100) – Still just 19 years old, Urias has already made a successful jump to the majors thanks to his advanced pitching skills. He looks poised to become the Dodgers’ new ace in short order. His rare 2015 Bowman Chrome rookie cards are bargains now but should explode in value over the next few years as Urias dominates hitters who are often five or more years his senior.

While vintage stars like Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams will always hold cachet, today’s savvy collectors are looking to invest in the emerging stars who are just starting to make their mark. Young talents like Trout, Harper, Betts, Bryant, Correa, Syndergaard, Lindor, Swanson, and Urias represent the best opportunities to get in early on future Hall of Famers and accumulate cards that could appreciate significantly over the long run. With strong performances on the field in 2016, any of these players could see a major spike in the value of their rookie cards. Collectors positioning themselves now stand to earn big returns by getting in ahead of the curve on baseball’s next generation of stars.

BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS TO INVEST IN

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When it comes to investing in baseball cards, rookie cards are often seen as one of the best options. This is because a player’s rookie card is the first card produced of them as a professional baseball player. As such, rookie cards tend to hold more value than regular base cards and can appreciate significantly over time if the player goes on to have a successful career.

With that in mind, here are some top baseball rookie cards that are good investments to consider:

Sandy Koufax (1955 Topps)
Considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Sandy Koufax had a relatively short but dominant career from 1955-1966 spent entirely with the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers. His 1955 Topps rookie card is one of the key vintage cards to own. In high grade, mint condition examples can sell for over $100,000 due to his legendary status. Even well-centered, nicely graded copies in the PSA 8-9 range will hold significant value long-term.

Mickey Mantle (1951 Bowman)
Along with the 1952 Topps, Mickey Mantle’s rookie card from 1951 Bowman is arguably the most valuable baseball card in existence. Widely regarded as the best all-around player of his generation, Mantle enjoyed a Hall of Fame career with the New York Yankees from 1951-1968. Pristine PSA 10 copies of his 1951 Bowman rookie have sold for over $2 million, showing the card’s incredible investment potential. Even lower graded copies in the PSA 7-8 range are still worth five figures.

Ken Griffey Jr. (1989 Upper Deck)
During the late 1980s and 1990s, Ken Griffey Jr. was arguably the most exciting young player in baseball. His graceful style of play and prolific home run power made him a fan favorite. Griffey’s rookie card comes from the landmark 1989 Upper Deck set and features sharp photography on the front. High grade PSA 10 examples can be worth over $10,000 today. Most graded copies still command prices in the thousands, demonstrating this modern card’s staying power.

Mariano Rivera (1991 Bowman)
As the greatest closer in MLB history with a record 652 career saves, Mariano Rivera dominated for 19 seasons with the New York Yankees from 1991-2013. His rookie card is from the 1991 Bowman set. PSA 10 copies have sold for over $4,000. Even well-centered PSA 8-9 examples still hold value in the multiple hundreds due to Rivera’s legendary status. This is a can’t-miss modern rookie card for any baseball investor.

Bryce Harper (2010 Bowman Sterling)
At just 28 years old, Bryce Harper has already built a Hall of Fame resume since making his MLB debut with the Washington Nationals in 2012. His best rookie card comes from the ultra-high end 2010 Bowman Sterling set, featuring a 1/1 printing plate parallel. High grades have sold for well over $10,000. Even regular base copies in PSA 10 still command prices around $1,000 long-term due to Harper’s star power and potential for continued success.

Mike Trout (2009 Bowman Chrome)
Widely considered the best all-around player in baseball today, Mike Trout has won three MVP awards since debuting with the Los Angeles Angels in 2011. The 2009 Bowman Chrome set introduced him to collectors. PSA 10 copies of his refractive rookie have sold for over $400,000, though most graded examples still hold value in the thousands. Trout is a virtual lock for the Hall of Fame someday, cementing this as one of the best modern investments around.

Pete Alonso (2018 Bowman Chrome)
After winning the 2019 NL Rookie of the Year award and smashing a rookie record 53 home runs for the New York Mets, Pete Alonso has quickly become a fan favorite. His prized rookie card is from 2018 Bowman Chrome, featuring his smooth lefty swing. PSA 10 copies have reached over $1,000 in value already. Most well-centered examples still sell for hundreds long-term due to Alonso’s emerging star power.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018 Bowman Chrome)
Possessing five-tool talents and electrifying speed, Ronald Acuña Jr. immediately broke out in his 2018 MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves. That same year, collectors were introduced to his talents in the 2018 Bowman Chrome set. High grades have reached $2,000 already. Even mid-range PSA 8-9 copies still sell for hundreds today and have plenty of upside if Acuña becomes a perennial All-Star.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (2019 Topps Chrome)
With his incredible power, speed and flair for the highlight-reel play, Fernando Tatis Jr. immediately made his presence felt for the San Diego Padres in 2019. That same year, collectors snapped up his prized rookie card in the 2019 Topps Chrome set. PSA 10s have already eclipsed $1,000 in value. Well-centered copies in the PSA 8-9 range still sell for hundreds long-term due to Tatis’ budding superstar potential.

Juan Soto (2018 Bowman Chrome)
At just 21 years old, Juan Soto has already become one of baseball’s best young hitters as a cornerstone of the Washington Nationals. Collectors first encountered his talents in the 2018 Bowman Chrome set featuring his smooth left-handed swing. PSA 10 copies have reached $800. Most well-centered examples still hold long-term value in the hundreds. Soto has perennial All-Star written all over him.

Rafael Devers (2016 Bowman Chrome)
Still just 24, Rafael Devers has emerged as one of baseball’s most dangerous young hitters for the Boston Red Sox. Collectors were introduced to his talents in the 2016 Bowman Chrome set. PSA 10 copies have already topped $500. Even mid-grade examples in the PSA 8-9 range still sell for hundreds long-term due to Devers’ budding superstar potential in Beantown.

In closing, by focusing on elite players who debuted since the 1950s and holding copies in high grades when possible, the above baseball rookie cards represent some of the best long-term investments for any sports card collector. With the combination of on-field performance, scarcity and name recognition over time, pristine examples of stars like Mantle, Koufax, Griffey Jr., Trout and more are poised to continue appreciating for decades to come.