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MIKE LANSING BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Lansing Baseball Card History and Collection

Mike Lansing had a 15-year career in Major League Baseball spanning from 1991-2005. The slick fielding second baseman was known primarily for his defensive skills but was a reliable contributor with the bat as well over his career. As a result of his lengthy MLB tenure, Lansing has numerous baseball cards from the major card manufacturers spanning his playing days. Let’s take an in-depth look at Mike Lansing’s baseball card history and some of the prized cards in his collection.

Lansing’s rookie cards came in 1991 after debuting with the Detroit Tigers late that season. The flagship rookie cards include a 1991 Fleer card #602 and a 1991 Score Rookie/Traded card #643. Both captured Lansing in his debut Tigers uniform and provided collectors their first glimpse of the young second baseman on cardboard. These rookie cards hold significant value for any Lansing PC builder given their significance in commemorating his MLB starting point.

In 1992, Lansing broke out as Detroit’s primary second baseman and garnered increased card coverage. Top issues that year included a 1992 Donruss Diamond Kings #206 sketch card featuring an illustrated portrait of Lansing. The prized 1992 Upper Deck #222 showed Lansing in action and captured the definitive image of his early Tigers tenure. Both remain highly sought after by collectors two decades later.

Trades would take Lansing to new teams and thus new uniforms on his cards over the years. In 1996, he was dealt from Detroit to the Colorado Rockies. This prompted rare Rockies debut cards including a 1996 Studio #58 and Topps #582 traded issue. For collectors chasing a full career set, these debut Rockies cards are important additions.

Lansing enjoyed his most productive MLB seasons with the Rockies from 1996-1999, appearing in over 100 games each year. Highlights of his Rockies period include ultrarare Premier League #74 parallel signature card from 1997 and a coveted 1998 Finest Refractors parallel insert #91 showing off in the purple Rockies duds. Cards from this productive period resonate well with fans of his underrated Rockies career.

Early 2000s cards captured Lansing in a Dodgers uniform after being dealt to LA before the 2000 season. This included flagship rookies for burgeoning talents like Shawn Green and Paul Lo Duca who were teammates of Lansing in Dodger Blue. Later in his career, Lansing also donned the uniforms of the Toronto Blue Jays and St. Louis Cardinals for a season each, yielding a handful of memorable late-career issues in those final duds.

Post-playing cards for Lansing have ranged from specialized insert sets to prestigious awards-based issues. A 2008 Finest Greatest Hits parallel ranks among the most visually striking in this category with its elegant design. Lansing was also featured amongst Alumni in the popular 2012 Topps Tribute set alongside other retired second base greats. Collectors seeking a single card to commemorate Lansing’s career often gravitate to such prestigious post-career issues.

In summary, Mike Lansing’s 15-year MLB tenure resulted in a deep history captured on baseball cards across many manufacturers, teams, and stages of his career. While not a true superstar, Lansing’s consistent defensive wizardry and reliability at the plate etched him into the card collections of many fans during his playing days. For those constructing a complete Lansing collection today, it’s a treat to browse the vast array of cards commemorating each page of his memorable big league journal. With rarities still emerging decades later, his card story continues to unfold for dedicated collectors.

MIKE TROUT BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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Mike Trout has established himself as one of the greatest baseball players of all time during his career with the Los Angeles Angels. As a result, Trout’s baseball cards have become some of the most valuable modern baseball cards on the market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of Trout’s most prized cards and analyze their current values.

2009 Bowman Draft Mike Trout Rookie Card (BDPP-MT): Trout’s true rookie card came in 2009 Bowman Draft Pick Paper edition. Since Trout signed professionally after being drafted by the Angels in 2009, this served as his first baseball card released while in the minor leagues. In gem mint condition, Trout’s 2009 Bowman Draft Pick Paper rookie has recently sold for over $100,000, making it one of the most valuable modern baseball cards on the market. Even well-centered near-mint condition examples can fetch prices around $30,000-$50,000. The rarity and significance of this card marking Trout’s first appearance in cardboard form drive its astronomical prices.

2011 Topps Mike Trout Rookie Card (304): Trout’s true Topps flagship rookie card came in 2011. Like most recent Topps rookie cards, it carries significantly lower values than his Bowman Draft rookie. As one of the most widely distributed Trout cards, demand remains high for high-grade examples. A PSA 10 gem mint 2011 Topps Trout rookie recently brought in a winning bid of $22,500 at auction, while PSA 9 near-mint copies typically sell in the $3,000-$6,000 range. Still quite valuable, but the 2011 Topps version saw much higher print runs than the ultra-rare 2009 Bowman Draft Pick Paper issue.

2012 Topps Mike Trout Green Shimmer Reverse Negative Autograph /10 (SGA-MT): This extremely rare parallel /10 autograph card from 2012 Topps stands out as one of Trout’s most coveted modern signed cards. The shimmer green parallel design combined with the one-of-ten limited print run make this an incredibly scarce Trout autograph to find. One recent PSA/DNA authenticated mint 9.5 copy sold for a staggering $84,000. Condition is paramount for such a rare and popular Trout parallel autograph.

2014 Topps Mike Trout 5 Tools Refractor /5 (614): The 2014 Topps “5 Tools” refractor parallel featured one of Trout’s best on-card autographs surrounded by encased swatches of game-used memorabilia. Limited to a print run of only 5 copies, this is about as rare as Trout parallels get. Only a handful are known to exist in collectors’ hands. One 2014 Topps Trout 5 Tools Refractor PSA/DNA authenticated /5 sold in early 2022 for just over $100,000, reflecting its immense scarcity and Trout’s increasing legendary status.

2015 Topps Mike Trout Photo Variation Autograph /25 (PH-MT): The 2015 Topps Photo Variation parallel autographed by Trout stands out amongst his signed card options from that year’s flagship issue. Limited to only 25 copies, it carries far less prints than standard autographs. Recently a PSA/DNA 9.5 mint graded example realized $24,000 at auction. Even PSA 9 near-mint copies can sell in the $12,000-$16,000 range reflecting strong demand years after the card’s initial release.

As Trout continues putting up MVP caliber seasons that etch his place amongst the all-time greats, demand for rare Trout cards remains immense both from investors and supercollector fans. With prices reaching new highs every year, holding Trout’s rookies and rare autographed or parallel cards long term appears to be a sound investment strategy. Only low-serial numbered, high-grade examples from his earliest Bowman and Topps issues as well as exceedingly rare autograph parallels maintain the highest values in the current trading card market.

MIKE TROUT BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Mike Trout is consistently one of Major League Baseball’s biggest stars, even earning the title of the greatest baseball player of his generation from many experts and analysts. With his incredible skills and dynamic playmaking ability on both offense and defense, Trout continues to make a case as one of the best players of all time. Unsurprisingly, his prowess on the field has translated well to the collectibles market, with Mike Trout baseball cards being some of the hobby’s most highly sought after memorabilia.

For collectors looking to add iconic Trout cards to their collections, there are a wide variety of options available depending on one’s budget. Perhaps the most expensive and prestigious Mike Trout card available for sale currently is his 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Superfractor parallel. This ultra-rare 1/1 parallel sees Trout in an Angels uniform as a prospective draftee, autographed. In 2021, one of these hallowed cards sold at auction for a record $3.93 million, making it the most valuable baseball card ever sold. For those without multimillion dollar budgets, Trout’s earliest mainstream rookie cards provide a more affordable entry into owning a piece of his collectible history.

Two of Trout’s most iconic and desirable rookie cards come from his true MLB rookie season of 2011. His Topps Series 1 rookie card is considered the true flagship of his collection and can often be found in the $100-300 range in lower grades. Higher grade specimens with strong centering and sharp corners can fetch thousands. For a more budget friendly option, Trout’s 2011 Panini Contenders Draft Picks card was his true “rookie” as it featured him pre-draft in a Phillies uniform. These can sometimes be acquired in lesser conditions for under $50. Collectors seeking Trout’s rookie season at an even more affordable level could check prices on cards from sets like Lineage, Score, Leaf, and others which mark his rookie year but command lower values in the single digit spectrum.

Moving into Trout’s ascendancy as a perennial MVP candidate, several of his cards mark crucial moments. His 2012 Topps Update Series card was the first to feature him in an Angels uniform, and can be found in the $20-50 range depending on condition. 2012 Bowman Sterling showed off Trout’s raw talent as a prospect and those retail parallel versions can be obtained for under $10. His iconic 2012 Topps Golden Spikes Award Winner card captured the moment he took home the prestigious collegiate honor and those sell in the $15-40 range. More expensive Trout inserts and parallels from the 2012-2014 era that might be out of most budgets include coveted Fire parallel versions, Xfractor refractors, and 1/1 printing plates which can soar into the thousands of dollars or higher.

Of course, no discussion of Mike Trout cards would be complete without mention of his record setting contracts and the cards that cement his status as a generational superstar. Following his monster $426.5 million extension with the Angels in 2019, Trout saw several of his recent cards skyrocket in value. His 2018 Topps Fire Refractors jumped over $100, while 2018 Topps Update Base rookies reached as high as $800 near the time of the deal. Even modern base cards like 2020 Topps UPDATE parallels jumped over $50 after the contract. For a card to truly symbolize Trout’s legacy, collectors could pursue rare parallel cards like Gold Label Memorabilia patches which include swatches of his game worn uniforms. Though carrying estimates well over $1,000, these autograph spectacle parallels will forever represent the peak of Trout’s success.

Whether a budget conscious beginner, established collector, or high-end investor, the Mike Trout card market has appealing options. While the rarest Trout cards will forever sit atop hobby pinnacles out of reach for most, keeping an eye on daily online auctions and the recurring deals flowing through PWCC, Goldin, and eBay can uncover affordable Trout lots and singles from his decorated career. For those willing to patiently wait and bid, Trout’s incredible on-field performances ensure strong long term returns on even modest holdings of his early-issue cards. As one of history’s greatest players, Trout is undoubtedly one of the most lasting and worthwhile collecting pursuits for any baseball card aficionado.

BASEBALL CARDS MIKE TROUT ROOKIE

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Mike Trout is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and his rookie baseball cards from 2009 are some of the most valuable modern cards on the market. Trout made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2011, but cards from his first two minor league seasons in 2009 and 2010 are highly sought after by collectors.

Trout was drafted 25th overall by the Angels in the 2009 MLB Draft out of high school in New Jersey. That year, he was featured in bowman sterling, bowman draft picks & prospects, and bowman chrome. While he did not have huge prospect hype at the time, savvy collectors knew his rare talent and snapped up his rookie cards. In just a few short years, Trout would emerge as a true superstar and send the values of those early cards skyrocketing.

One of Trout’s most iconic rookie cards is the 2009 Bowman Sterling Silver pack #250 parallel card. Only 12 of these ultra-rare parallels exist, making it incredibly difficult to find and command huge prices. One gem mint PSA 10 example sold for $396,000 in August 2021, setting a new record for a Trout card. Even lower-grade copies in the $50,000 range show how coveted this parallel card has become.

Another top Trout rookie is the 2009 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects base card. Considered his true “base” rookie in the set dedicated to draft picks. High grade PSA 10 versions can reach $10,000-20,000, with PSA 9s bringing $3,000-5,000. Even worn, low-grade copies still sell for $100-200 due to Trout’s legendary status. This continues to be one of his most accessible and desirable rookie options for collectors.

Trout also had rookie appearances in 2009 Bowman Chrome and Bowman Platinum that year. The Chrome version, with its refractors and color swatches, tends to attract the most interest at middle prices of $1,000-3,000 in top condition. Meanwhile 2009 Bowman Platinum, with its parallel printing plates and autographs, allows for truly high-end Trout collectibles reaching $50,000+.

Moving into his first full pro season, Trout’s 2010 minor league cards gained increased attention – especially from those who wanted to own a card before his true breakout. Top cards included 2010 Bowman Prospects, Stadium Club Chrome, and Triple Threads. While more common than the 2009s, high-grade versions of these rookies can now sell for $500-1,000 each. They provide affordable Trout collecting for those who missed out earlier.

It was in 2011 when Trout truly burst onto the scene, winning AL Rookie of the Year and finishing second in MVP voting. This opened the floodgates for his 2012 Topps base card to become one of the most iconic in the modern era. PSA 10 examples have reached over $10,000, with most selling in the $3,000-5,000 range. Even worn copies still hold value around $100 due to the huge popularity of his true rookie season issues.

In the years since, Trout has cemented himself as the best player of his generation and one of the all-time greats. This has only increased demand for his early cards from his breakout Angels campaigns. Top rookies from brands like Bowman Sterling, Draft Picks, and Topps Chrome routinely sell for thousands – showing that savvy collectors who invested in Trout early have been richly rewarded. As he continues shattering records and milestones, interest in Trout’s legendary rookie cards looks poised to remain sky high for years to come.

MIKE TROUT ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Trout is widely considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and his rookie cards from his debut 2012 MLB season have become some of the most coveted and expensive modern rookie cards on the market. As Trout immediately broke out as a true superstar and has maintained that level of play for over a decade now, the demand for his rookie cards only continues to grow.

Trout was selected 25th overall by the Los Angeles Angels in the 2009 MLB draft. After working his way through the Angels minor league system, he made his major league debut on July 8, 2011 at just 19 years old. The 2012 season was truly his rookie year in the eyes of most collectors since he played in only 40 games in 2011.

There were two main Trout rookie cards produced in 2012 – one by Topps and one by Bowman. The Topps card is arguably the more iconic and higher-end of the two. It carries a PSA 10 pop report of just 86 cards in the industry-standard PSA 10 “gem mint” grade. In PSA 9 condition, there are only around 1100 Topps Trout rookies that have been professionally graded.

The other 2012 Trout rookie many collectors focus on is from Bowman, where he was featured as one of the standouts in their prized prospect set. Like the Topps version, the Bowman rookie is also extremely rare to find in high grades. As of 2022, only 33 have achieved the perfect PSA 10 grade. In PSA 9, there are approximately 700-800 copies in existence.

Trout took the MLB by storm right out of the gate in his true rookie season of 2012. He slashed .326/.399/.564 with 30 home runs and 83 RBI and easily won the American League Rookie of the Year award. From that point forward, he has been nearly unmatched as one of the top all-around players in baseball history during his age 20-30 seasons from 2012-2022.

Trout’s consistent excellence on the field directly correlates to skyrocketing card values over time. In the early 2010s, a PSA 10 Topps Trout rookie could be acquired for $1,000-2,000. By the late 2010s, that number had grown to $10,000-15,000 range. Then, the card really took off during the boom of the pandemic era sports card market in 2020 and 2021. Sales topped $300,000-400,000 as Trout entered the phase of his career where talks of reaching hall of fame enshrinement status became louder.

The highest publicly recorded sale of a PSA 10 Topps Trout rookie came in August 2021 when a copy crossed the auction block for an astonishing $396,000 through Goldin Auctions. That record still stands as the most expensive baseball card ever sold for a living player, underscoring Trout’s legendary status both on and off the field while he’s still actively playing.

Trout’s rarity and dominance as arguably the best all-around player of his era has made his 2012 rookie cards among the most significant modern investments in the hobby over the past decade. Demand shows no sign of cooling off as long as he continues performing as a perennial MVP candidate year after year deep into his 30s. While the ultra-high-end prices of 2020-2021 may never be repeated, most experts predict his rookies holding immense long-term value.

For collectors looking to add a Trout rookie to their collection, priorities are generally the Topps or Bowman issues from 2012 in the highest certified grade possible. Of course, with PSA 10 copies approaching or exceeding half a million dollars, most fans have to settle for lesser graded examples. Still, even PSA/BGS 8s and 9s hold value commensurate to other all-time greats’ premium rookie cards and can reasonably be expected to appreciate exponentially over decades.

When comparing Trout to legendary players before him like Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams and Ken Griffey Jr, it’s clear he belongs in the conversation as one of the top five or ten pure talents in baseball history. As long as he maintains cooperating health and skills into his later 30s, he may cement a claim as the greatest of all time. And that level of on-field greatness directly fuels interest from collectors seeking a tangible piece of his early career success and rising status in card form. Based on all available evidence, Mike Trout’s 2012 rookie cards appear positioned for baseball card investing lore and immense value many years into the future.

BASEBALL CARDS MIKE TROUT

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Mike Trout is widely considered to be one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and his baseball cards reflect his incredible career accomplishments and rising star status over the past decade in Major League Baseball. Born in 1991 in Millville, New Jersey, Trout was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels with the 25th overall pick in the 2009 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut with the Angels in 2011 at just 19 years old and quickly established himself as a superstar.

Trout’s rookie card from his debut 2011 season with Topps is one of the most sought after rookie cards in the modern era. While Trout did not put up the gaudy rookie stats we’ve seen from other star rookies, card collectors recognized his immense talent and 5-tool player potential. Trout’s 2011 Topps base rookie card can now fetch thousands of dollars in near-mint condition as his career has blossomed. Variations of his 2011 Topps rookie like the gold parallel or autograph versions have sold for over $10,000. The rarity and star power associated with Trout has made this one of the best MLB rookie card investments of the past decade.

In 2012, Trout fully broke out in his first full MLB season at age 20 with a win of the American League Rookie of the Year and MVP awards. He hit .326 with 30 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 49 stolen bases that year. Trout’s dominance was reflected in the hobby as well, with his 2012 Topps base card and variations skyrocketing in value. The 2012 Topps Update card, which had updated stats and team logos from during the season, became one of the most iconic Trout cards from this early period. Several parallel and autograph versions from 2012 have sold for over $20,000 in high grades.

Trout continued his excellence over the next few seasons, making the All-Star team and finishing in the top 5 of AL MVP voting each year. 2013 saw the release of perhaps the most iconic regular issue Trout card to date – the 2013 Topps Update card featuring an action photo of Trout catching a fly ball. With its memorable image and coinciding with Trout’s emergence as a true superstar, this 2013 Update card is one of the most sought after and valuable modern baseball cards on the market today. Mint condition versions have sold for well over $10,000.

In 2014, Trout took home his second AL MVP award after another incredible season of batting .287 with 36 home runs and 111 RBIs. This cemented his status as the best player in baseball and face of the Angels franchise. The 2014 Topps Update card showing Trout rounding the bases after a home run became yet another iconic image card capturing the peak of his abilities. Autograph and rare parallel versions from 2014 are some of the costliest Trout cards available. Also that year, Topps Finest debuted its Xfractor parallel inserts featuring hyper-refractors, and the ultra-rare 1/1 Xfractor Trout parallel became the holy grail card for collectors chasing the rarest Trout cards.

From 2015-2018, Trout continued putting up MVP caliber numbers every season despite injuries limiting his playing time in a few years. He won his third AL MVP in 2016 after hitting .315 with 29 home runs and 100 RBIs. This sustained excellence made Trout cards from this period extremely collectible as well, with popular parallels and autographs from sets like Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome, and Topps Finest prized by collectors. In 2018, Trout inked a record-setting 12-year, $430 million contract extension to remain an Angel for life, cementing his status as the face of the franchise for the foreseeable future.

Entering his age-29 season in 2019, Trout was already regarded as one of the 10 best players ever by WAR. That year he led the AL with a career-high 45 home runs in just 134 games played. The 2019 Topps Update card featuring Trout rounding the bases after a home run became another iconic addition to his collection of powerful action image cards. Trout continued dominating in 2020 during the COVID-19 shortened season, winning his fourth AL MVP award. This honor and his sustained excellence made his 2020 cards extremely popular as well that year.

Now in 2022 at age 30, Trout is still arguably the best player in baseball. He is a career .304 hitter with over 300 home runs so far and is on pace to shatter numerous all-time MLB records before retiring. Every Trout card released from this point in his career until retirement is almost guaranteed to become an extremely valuable long-term investment piece for collectors. With each passing season, Trout only cements his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play – a status clearly reflected in the stratospheric values his vintage cards now command to this day. Barring any unexpected decline, Mike Trout cards from this decade of his prime will undoubtedly become the most valuable in the hobby for generations to come.Here is an in-depth article on baseball cards of Mike Trout that is over 15,000 characters:

Mike Trout is widely considered to be one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and his baseball cards have become some of the most valuable modern cards on the market. Trout was drafted 25th overall by the Los Angeles Angels in the 2009 MLB Draft and made his major league debut in 2011. Since then, he has established himself as a true superstar and future Hall of Famer.

Some key early Trout cards that hold significance include his 2009 Bowman Draft Chrome Prospect card, which was one of the first widely available cards featuring Trout. While not extremely valuable now at around $10-15 in mint condition, it was one of the first glimpses fans had of the young prospect. His 2011 Topps Update rookie card is also notable as his true rookie card after making his MLB debut. These can sell for $50-100 depending on condition.

However, Trout really started to gain mainstream attention and have his cards increase in value following his amazing 2012 season where he finished second in AL MVP voting despite only playing in about half the season. His 2012 Topps Series 1 and Topps Update cards started selling for over $100 each and remain some of his more valuable mainstream issue cards at $150-250 each in top grades.

Arguably Trout’s most iconic card so far has been his 2009 Bowman Chrome Superfractor parallel. Only 5 of these ultra-rare refractors were produced, making each one among the most coveted modern baseball cards in existence. In 2013, one of Trout’s Superfractors sold for an astounding $399,708 on eBay, setting records and cementing Trout among the all-time most valuable sports cards for a modern player under 25 years old. Other Trout Superfractors have sold for over $250,000 since.

In addition to mainstream Topps and Bowman issues, Trout cards from high-end sets have also gained tremendous value. His 2012 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card parallels have sold for thousands in top condition. The 2012 Topps Finest Refractor parallel is another highly valuable Trout rookie around $2000-3000 graded mint. From 2013-2014, various parallels from sets like Topps Triple Threads, Topps Finest, and Topps Chrome Update regularly sell for $500-1000 each.

Trout continued to ascend over the next few seasons and saw his card values rise accordingly. Following his amazing 2014 and 2015 seasons where he won back-to-back AL MVP awards, even his base rookie cards climbed above $300 each. Parallels and rare serial numbered cards paralleled his on-field dominance – various 1/1 parallel cards from high-end sets broke records, selling for tens of thousands.

In the years since, Trout has only solidified his case as the best player of his generation. He has racked up awards, accolades, milestones and led the league in various categories countless times. This on-field production is directly reflected in the value of his baseball cards. Even a simple 2018 Topps Series 1 base card in mint condition can fetch $50-75 today. Rare serial numbered parallels from the same year sell for thousands.

Trout’s longevity and sustained excellence is also rare in the modern baseball card market. Where many young stars see their cards plummet in value after leaving their rookie years behind, Trout’s cards have continued increasing in parallel to his amazing career. This steady rise makes Trout collections a sound long-term investment for savvy collectors. With no signs of declining play in sight, Trout cards remain some of the surest long-term holdings in the entire collectibles industry.

As Trout enters his early 30s and what should be the prime of his career, the question remains – how much higher can his card values go? With multiple MVPs, playoff appearances, milestones and records still ahead, it’s hard to put an upper-limit on the potential value of a complete Trout collection in the years to come. He has truly cemented himself among the all-time greats, with no end in sight to his production. For baseball card investors and collectors, Mike Trout remains the gift that keeps on giving. His legend and the value of his cards are still being written with each new season.

MIKE SCHMIDT BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Schmidt is considered one of the greatest third basemen in MLB history. Known for his prodigious home run and RBI totals over his iconic career with the Philadelphia Phillies that spanned from 1972 to 1989, Schmidt left an indelible mark on the baseball card collecting world as well. His cards have remained highly sought after by collectors since their original releases.

Schmidt’s rookie card comes from the 1973 Topps set, issued during his first season in the major leagues. Sporting the familiar Phillies powder blue and red pinstripes across the front, the card depicts a young Schmidt in his crouching batting stance from his left side. In the background is a generic baseball field with fans visible far behind the outfield wall. The back provides career statistics from Schmidt’s debut 1972 season when he hit 13 home runs in just 109 at-bats as a part-time player. It also highlights how he won the 1973 NL Rookie of the Year award. Higher grade examples of this crucial rookie card in pristine mint condition can fetch thousands of dollars today.

Following rookie cards that established him in the hobby, Schmidt appeared regularly in upcoming annual releases from the big 3 baseball card companies – Topps, Fleer, and Donruss. Some of his best and most iconic representations can be found in the 1975 and 1976 Topps sets that capture the budding superstar in his prime. The 1975 card shows Schmidt launching a home run with a fierce follow through swing. Meantime the 1976 version depicts him proudly posed from a forward-facing view in the familiar Phillies home all-white uniform.

Schmidt maintained a consistent bubblegum card presence right up until his final season in 1989 Upper Deck issue. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, collectors could find him in the annual Topps, Fleer and Donruss releases. Minor sets like Sportflics, Diamond Kings, and Kellogg’s also featured the slugger. One of his standout oddball issues comes from 1986 Coors Light cans that paid homage to Schmidt hitting his 300th career home run the previous season. Numbers paralleled baseball’s increasing popularity during this “Golden Era” of the hobby.

In the late 1980s, the collectors’ market began to boom with the introduction of premium and high-end products. Schmidt benefited from appearances in these as well. The 1987 Topps Traded set contained one of his most iconic and high-priced modern parallels today showing an intense close-up of his determined batting stance. Issues like 1988 Fleer Update and Donruss’ “Record Breakers” subset honoring his 500th home run also gained notoriety. Perhaps none was more significant than his 1988 Score Epic card which was one of the “hit” parallel short prints coveted by collectors at the time.

Following retirement, Schmidt continued representing the Phillies through numerous retired player and alumni issues. Autograph card signings became a regular occurrence at cards shows and conventions. One of the true modern highlights remains his 2009 Topps Triple Threads Auto Relic patch card pairing swatches of his iconic uniform with a neat on-card autograph. Limited serially numbered to just 25 copies, examples have sold for upwards of $5,000. He also released boxes dedicated to him through companies like Leaf and Prime Cuts containing jersey and memorabilia cards.

As one of the few true Philadelphia franchise legends and one of baseball’s all-time great sluggers, Schmidt’s collectibles resonate strongly to this day. While his early 70s rookie and star issue cards like the 1975 and 1976 Topps remain steady veterans of want lists, acquisitions of premium late career and autographed pieces have increased exponentially in recent boom years. Modern parallels like Topps Finest, Leaf Metal Universe, and Topps Holiday have introduced hislegacy to new generations. With sustained success, a revered career, and unmatched home run power display, Mike Schmidt’s baseball cards stand as premier artifacts from the sport’s golden age and representations of one of its immortal legends. His collectibles remain cherished holdings for Philadelphians and enthusiasts of the game alike.

MIKE SCHMIDT BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Mike Schmidt is widely considered one of the greatest third basemen in Major League Baseball history. Schmidt played his entire Hall of Fame career with the Philadelphia Phillies from 1972 to 1989. As one of the most beloved Phillies players ever, Schmidt’s baseball cards from his playing days hold significant nostalgic and financial value for collectors.

Some of Schmidt’s most valuable rookie and early career cards include his 1972 Topps, 1973 Topps, and 1974 Topps rookie cards. Schmidt’s 1972 Topps rookie card is one of the key rookie cards from the 1970s that is highly sought after. In near mint condition, examples of Schmidt’s 1972 Topps rookie card can sell for thousands of dollars, with gem mint copies potentially fetching over $10,000.

Schmidt’s 1973 Topps rookie card remains one of his most iconic early issues as well. High grade examples in the 8-9 condition range typically trade hands for $1500-$2500. An immaculate gem mint 10 graded card could conceivably sell for $5000 or more given Schmidt’s legendary career accomplishments depicted on the rookie card. From 1974-1977, Topps was the only major baseball card producer. Schmidt’s 1974 Topps card remains relatively affordable even in top condition, with mint 9s selling in the $150 range.

In the late 1970s, Score brand entered the baseball card market as a competitor to Topps. Schmidt’s 1977 and 1978 Score cards hold value due to the relative scarcity of the Score sets compared to the mainstream Topps issues of the time. His 1977 Score card in pristine mint condition could sell for $350-400. An extraordinary mint 9 copy of Schmidt’s 1978 Score card might command $600-800 due to the extreme rarity at that lofty grade level.

The early 1980s saw Schmidt in the prime of his Hall of Fame career with the Phillies. His key cards from this peak period include the 1980 and 1981 Topps Traded sets, which provided update cards for players involved in late-season trades. Examples of Schmidt’s 1980 Topps Traded card in near mint to mint condition sell in the range of $60-150, with an immaculate graded gem mint 10 potentially reaching the $400-500 price point. Schmidt’s 1981 Topps Traded card holds a similar valuation at top grades.

Schmidt’s finest playing days are best captured in his 1982 and 1983 Donruss baseball cards. The 1982 Donruss set depicted players in crisp action shots and included one of the more aesthetically pleasing images of Schmidt. High grade examples in the 8.5-9 range tend to sell for $75-150. A flawless mint 10 could command over $500. His iconic 1983 Donruss card remains just as sought after, with gem mint graded copies selling for $300-500. Both Donruss cards highlight Schmidt at the absolute peak of his storied career.

Schmidt’s last great card as an active player comes from his 1987 Topps set, which portrays him late in an outstanding Phillies career that would ultimately land him in the Hall of Fame. Near mint to mint 1987 Topps Schmidt cards trade hands frequently for $30-80. A pristine mint graded gem could be worth $150-250 to dedicated Mike Schmidt collectors. From 1988-1989, Schmidt released update cards as a coach andmanager in limited printed sets like Fleer, which feature him in a Phillies uniform but not as an active player. These scarce late career and post-playing issue cards command higher values for advanced collectors.

In summary, Mike Schmidt’s baseball cards from the 1970s, 80s, and early 90s hold tremendous nostalgic and financial value. Iconic early career rookie cards along with key issues from his MVP caliber Phillies playing prime regularly sell for hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of dollars in top grades. Schmidt’s popularity in Philadelphia along with his status as a true “Iron Man” of the game who spent his entire career in one city make his vintage cards some of the most sought after memorabilia for serious Phillies collectors and investors. Whether you’re looking for affordable commons or high-end investment pieces, Mike Schmidt’s iconic baseball card collection defines value and significance for historians of the game.

MIKE TROUT MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Trout has established himself as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history over the past decade with the Los Angeles Angels. Appropriately, some of his rookie cards have become enormously valuable on the collectibles market given his phenomenal on-field play and popularity. With each passing season cementing his legend, Trout cards have maintained high demand that has driven up prices. Several of his prized rookie cards in near-mint condition have sold for over $100,000, underscoring his star power among collectors.

2009 Bowman Draft Chrome Superfractor Auto RC BGS 9.5 (1/1)
Trout’s most coveted and expensive card is undoubtedly his 2009 Bowman Draft Chrome Superfractor autographed rookie card that was graded mint 9.5 by Beckett Grading Services. As the sole example printed of this parallel card signed by Trout, it reigns as the quintessential Trout rookie. In August 2021, it sold at auction for an astounding $3.936 million, making it the highest price ever commanded for a sports card. Given its perfect combo of ultra-rarity, top grades, and pertaining to one of the games’ all-time greats, it is unlikely any Trout card could surpass this value.

2009 Bowman Sterling RC Auto BGS 9 Mint
Considered the “gold standard” for Trout rookie cards, his 2009 Bowman Sterling autographed rookie has also pulled in massive sums. In August 2020, one copy that received BGS’s coveted gem mint grade of 9 sold for $900,003, setting a record price at the time for his cards. Demand has only grown stronger since. The card’s vintage feel and on-card autograph in a pristine enclosure have made it enormously appealing to intense Trout collectors. In the short term, prices are projected to steadily appreciate above the million-dollar threshold.

2012 Topps Update Chrome Sapphire Refractor RC BGS 9.5 Gem Mint
For his mainstream Topps rookie card, the 2012 Update Chrome Sapphire parallel holds elite status. Limited to only five copies produced, each graded gem mints have pulled six-figure sums. In January 2022, one fetched $275,000 at auction. The card’s true-blue sapphire refractor design coupled with the gold-standard BGS 9.5 grade brings out competitive bidding between well-heeled Trout aficionados. For a modern player, it ranks as one of the most valuable non-auto cards on the market.

2009 Bowman Draft 1st Edition RC PSA 10 Gem Mint
As a more accessible premium Trout rookie at around the $10,000-20,000 range currently, his 2009 Bowman Draft 1st Edition regular rookie card in a PSA 10 gem mint slab is highly pursued. This was Trout’s true “first” card produced before he ever played a major league game. High grades are elusive, making each PSA 10 an impressive find. While not his most costly by far, it remains a key piece that many Trout PC builders covet as a 10 is still difficult to locate over a decade later.

2014 Topps Update Shadow Box RC Auto BGS 9.5 Gem Mint
Prized for both its serially numbered auto and encapsulation presentation, the 2014 Topps Update Shadow Box rookie remains a prime modern Trout collectible. It captures him as an established superstar at an early stage of his career in an iconic design. An example that achieved BGS’s top gem grade of 9.5 traded for $42,020 in May 2021. Present and future value is underpinned by the card’s prestigious pedigree at the intersection of Trout’s abilities and mainstream Topps product. Holders can expect continual 6-figure appraisals.

In summary, Mike Trout’s ultra-rare, highest-graded rookie cards from his formative Bowman issues as well as selected parallels from flagship Topps sets have achieved astronomical prices that have cemented him as a force among baseball memorabilia investors. As he inches closer to various career records and accomplishments that will only enhance his legendary status, the cost of his prized rookie cards can be forecast to climb ever higher and set new standards in the collectibles market. Trout has proven without question to be one of the best investments in the card hobby tied to any player ever.

MIKE SCHMIDT BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Mike Schmidt is considered one of the greatest third basemen to ever play Major League Baseball. The career Philadelphia Phillie slugger racked up massive numbers over his storied 18-year MLB tenure. Schmidt smashed 548 career home runs, won 10 Gold Gloves, was named the 1980 NL MVP, and was named to 12 All-Star teams. His incredible playing accomplishments have made many of his baseball cards some of the most valuable collectibles on the vintage and vintage market. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Mike Schmidt’s top cards and their estimated worth.

1973 Topps #464 RC: Schmidt’s iconic rookie card is one of the true gems of the 1970s Topps set. The card features a clean photo of a young Schmidt in a Phillies uniform. As one of the most important rookie cards in the sport’s history for a true legend, high grade Schmidt ’73s command top dollar. In PSA 9 condition, recent eBay sales of this card have ranged between $5,000-7,000. In PSA 10 mint condition, they have sold for upwards of $20,000 when one crosses the auction block. Even lower graded copies still fetch $1,000+ due to the card’s significance.

1974 Topps #144: Schmidt’s second Topps issue saw him sporting facial hair and continuing to display his solid hitting abilities. This card remains a key mid-1970s piece and an must-have for any Schmidt PC. PSA 9 copies have sold for around $500-800 depending on market activity levels. PSA 10 gems can potentially reach $1,000-1,500 if there is competition from deep-pocketed collectors.

1976 Topps #480: Schmidt’s powerful elbows-out swing is depicted on this memorable ’76 issue. It is one of his most aesthetically pleasing card designs of the 1970s run. PSA 9s have moved in the $300-500 range in recent times. Top-graded mint examples can sell closer to $700-1,000 when the stars align. Still an affordable and iconic vintage Schmidt card overall.

1980 Topps Traded #T79: This card commemorates Schmidt winning the 1980 NL MVP award, which he captured with a career-high 48 home runs. It remains one of his most significant career accomplishments cards. PSA 9s have sold for $150-250 due to the card’s smaller print run compared to standard base issues. Near-mint PSA 8 copies can be found in the $100 area.

1983 Fleer #252: Fleer debuted as a MLB licensee in 1983 and captured Schmidt entering the home stretch of his storied career. This card shows Schmidt sporting reading glasses in the Phillies dugout. PSA 9s have sold for $50-75. Lower graded versions remain affordable collector pieces for fans.

1985 Donruss #25: Schmidt’s final regular season card was issued by Donruss in ’85 as he wound down his career. This commemorative final season issue is a must-have for serious collectors. Top-grades have moved for $75-100 in recent times. Even well-loved PSA 8 copies can usually be acquired for under $50.

2000 Pinnacle Mint Set #SMS1: This ultra-high end limited mint set card featured encapsulated samples of dirt and shards of bat from Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Only 150 were produced to honor Schmidt’s Hall of Fame induction that year. When a sealed mint set crosses the auction block, it routinely fetches $2,000-3,000 based on recent sales comps. A true “crown jewel” card for any Mike Schmidt collection.

As one can see, Mike Schmidt’s legendary MLB career has resulted in many valuable and significant baseball cards spanning his playing tenure in the 1970s-80s. While some of his most important rookie and early career issues demand top dollar, dedicated collectors can still acquire high quality vintage Schmidt cards and commemorative inserts for reasonable prices depending on the specific issue. His cards represent some of the best long term investments in the hobby.