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MIKE ZIMMERMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Zimmerman had a long career in Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 1978 to 1992. While he didn’t achieve superstar status, Zimmerman had respectable career stats that made him a familiar name for baseball card collectors throughout the 1980s and early 90s. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Mike Zimmerman’s playing career and the baseball cards that were issued featuring his likeness over the years.

Zimmerman was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 3rd round of the 1976 MLB draft out of San Diego State University. He made his big league debut with the Astros in 1978 at just 21 years old. Zimmerman’s rookie card was issued in 1979 as part of the Topps baseball card set. The card features Zimmerman in an Astros uniform on the front with his rookie season stats listed on the back. In limited action his rookie year, Zimmerman posted a 4.50 ERA over 36 innings pitched.

During his early career with Houston, Zimmerman bounced between the majors and minors, still developing as a pitcher. He appeared on subsequent Toppscards in 1980 and 1981 still as an Astros player. In 1982, Zimmerman broke out with his best season to date, going 10-10 with a 3.34 ERA over 176 innings. He earned the respect of collectors by proving himself a capable major league starter. Zimmerman’s 1982 Topps card showed him establishing himself as a full-time Astros rotation member.

After the 1983 season, Zimmerman was traded from Houston to the New York Mets. He instantly became a key part of the Mets staff, winning 15 games in 1984 while posting a solid 3.66 ERA. Zimmerman’s first card as a Met came in the 1984 Fleer set. Interest was high from collectors to see how he would perform with his new club in New York. Zimmerman remained extremely consistent over the next few years, never posting an ERA above 4.00 through the 1987 season. His likeness was featured regularly in Topps, Fleer, and Donruss sets during this time.

Zimmerman became a free agent after 1987 and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. At this point over 30 years old, he was still viewed as a valuable veteran arm. His 1987 Donruss card marked his last as a Met before moving to LA. As a Dodger, Zimmerman had his best statistical season in 1988, going 17-9 with a 2.96 ERA and finishing 8th in NL Cy Young voting. The high point of Mike Zimmerman’s career was captured on his 1988 Topps Dodger card, an extremely popular issue among collectors.

Injury struggles slowed Zimmerman down over the next few seasons. He bounced between the Dodgers and a few other teams through the early 1990s. Zimmerman’s decline phase was well documented in later-year cards from Score, Ultra, and Stadium Club releases. Even as a part-time player in 1992 for the Chicago Cubs at age 37, Zimmerman still earned card issues in that year’s Studio and Topps sets based on his long career achievements. His career ultimately wrapped up with a 122-118 record and 4.11 ERA over 15 seasons.

While not a true “star” player, Mike Zimmerman provided solid, dependable performances for many seasons that made him a familiar name in the baseball card era of the late 1970s through early 1990s. From his rookie cards with Houston to his best years in New York and LA, Zimmerman’s playing journey was well documented in the annual card releases of Topps, Donruss, and Fleer. Even after injuries slowed him later in his career, Zimmerman still earned card inclusions based on his respected place in baseball history. For collectors from that generation, Zimmerman cards continue to bring back memories of the pitching durability he showed for so many years.

In conclusion, Mike Zimmerman may not have been a superstar player but he had a long, consistent major league career that spanned four different franchises over 15 seasons. As a regular starter for quality teams like the Astros, Mets, and Dodgers in the 1980s, Zimmerman earned the respect of baseball card collectors. From his rookie issues to later career updates, Zimmerman’s playing tenure was well represented in the bucket of many collectors who enjoyed following his career through the cardboard. While not a true “star” of the era, Zimmerman made his mark as a dependable pitching presence who demonstrated perseverance by lasting over a decade in the big leagues.

MIKE TROUT TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Trout is widely considered to be the best all-around player in Major League Baseball today. As such, his Topps baseball cards are highly sought after by collectors both for their scarcity and for his immense on-field talents that are represented on cardboard. While still early in his career, Trout has already put together a Hall of Fame worthy resume and his rookie cards from his early years with the Los Angeles Angels are some of the prized possessions in the collections of dedicated card collectors.

Trout was selected 25th overall by the Angels in the 2009 MLB Draft out of high school in New Jersey. Despite his young age, he moved quickly through the Angels farm system and made his MLB debut in 2011 at just 19 years old. That first season established Trout as a future superstar, as he hit .220 with 5 home runs and 30 RBI in 87 games while showcasing elite speed and defense. Topps captured Trout’s potential in his rookie card from 2011, the same year Joe Mauer was the cover athlete for the brand. Even at the time, dedicated collectors recognized Trout’s skills and snapped up as many of his rookie cards as possible, correctly predicting he would become one of the faces of the league.

In 2012, Trout fully broke out in just his second MLB season at age 20. He slashed .326/.399/.564 with 30 home runs, 83 RBI, and 49 stolen bases, joining Ty Cobb as the only players in MLB history to record those numbers. In recognition of his phenomenal sophomore campaign, Topps chose Trout as the cover athlete for their 2013 baseball card series, making him just the third player since 2000 to be featured after Ken Griffey Jr. and Alex Rodriguez. The 2012 Topps Trout rookie card is highly valued now, routinely fetching thousands of dollars as one of the prized pieces of any collection.

The performance that truly catapulted Trout into superstardom and sealed his status amongst the elites of the sport came in 2016. Playing in just his age 24 season, Trout led the American League in on-base percentage (.441), slugging percentage (.629), OPS (1.070), runs scored (123), and total bases (343) en route to his second MVP award. Topps commemorated this dominant offensive campaign with a unique “1 of 1” parallel card for Trout, making it one of the true one-of-a-kind items in the hobby. Beyond the statistics, this card captured Trout at the absolute peak of his abilities in arguably the greatest single season by a player of his generation. It’s estimated that if one of these extremely rare parallel versions were to become available, it could sell for well over $100,000 due to its singular nature and representing Trout’s 2016 dominance.

While trout’s offensive accolades have continued to pile up through his age 28 season in 2020, what’s often overlooked is just how great of a defender Trout is as well. He has won 8 Gold Glove awards to go along with his 3 AL MVPs and perennial AL batting title contention. Topps has always showcased Trout’s all-around game by including shots of his spectacular catches, canon arm, and highlight reel throws on many of his decade’s worth of base cards so far. His skills in the field are truly remarkable to witness in person and help solidify Trout’s case as one of the most well-rounded and dynamic players of all-time. Collectors appreciate Topps’s depiction of Trout’s defense as it helps encapsulate what makes him such a special talent.

Currently in his age 29 season of 2021, Trout is still performing at an elite level as he continues living up to the promise of stardom his early Topps cards foretold. While injuries limited him to just 36 games in 2020, he returned healthy in 2021 and is posting typical Trout-esque stats of .333 batting average with 19 home runs and 50 RBI through his first 71 games this season. As Trout enters his 10th MLB campaign and now decade in the big leagues, the value of his rookie cards has skyrocketed to new heights. PSA 10 gem mint versions of his iconic 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects rookie card now sell for upwards of $400,000, cemented as one of the most valuable modern baseball cards that exists.

Without question, Mike Trout is one of the true generational talents baseball has seen. Through an entire decade’s worth of Topps cards, collectors have been able to track and appreciate not just the stats, but visually witness Trout’s development into the consensus best player in baseball today. While still early in his career and chasing all-time MLB records, Trout’s accomplishments thus far have already made his rookie cards iconic, valuable possessions that capture not just a great player, but an era of dominance. As Trout continues performing at his peak well into his 30s, the value of his Topps rookie cards from the early 2010s will surely increase even further as they become more important pieces of baseball card history with each passing season.

MIKE TROUT AUTOGRAPHED BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Trout autographed baseball cards are among the most highly coveted and valuable modern autograph cards in the hobby. Trout has established himself as one of the greatest players of all-time in just his first decade in Major League Baseball. His prodigious talent and production on the field have translated to immense popularity and demand for his autographed memorabilia, including his cards.

Trout was drafted 25th overall by the Los Angeles Angels in the 2009 MLB Draft out of high school in New Jersey. He made his MLB debut in 2011 at just 19 years old and immediately began turning heads with his five-tool skillset. Although he played in only 40 games that first season, Trout finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting and established himself as a budding superstar.

In 2012, Trout fully broke out in his first full MLB season. He batted .326 with 30 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 49 stolen bases. Amazingly, he led the American League in runs scored with 129 despite batting leadoff for much of the season. Trout won the AL Rookie of the Year and MVP awards that year unanimously, becoming just the third player ever to do so.

At just 21 years old, Trout was already cementing his status as a modern great. He has not slowed down since, continuing to put up video game-like numbers year after year. Some incredible stats and milestones Trout has achieved in his career so far include: two-time AL MVP (2014, 2016), eight-time AL All-Star, best career WAR of any player through age 25 season, four top-2 MVP finishes, and four top-2 finishes in AL batting titles.

Trout’s legendary on-field production and routine feats have made him a figure on par with the likes of Mickey Mantle or Willie Mays to many baseball fans and collectors. As a result, his autographed cards from every season hold immense significance and value on the autograph memorabilia market. Here are some details on the most desirable and valuable Trout autographed baseball cards:

2009 Bowman Draft Chrome Mike Trout Auto BGS 9.5: This ultra-rare rookie card autographed by Trout fresh out of the draft is about as iconic as it gets for Angels fans and collectors. Numbered to just 99 copies, PSA/BGS Gem Mint 9.5 examples have sold for upwards of $80,000 in recent years due to the incredible rarity, condition, and significance of the signature.

2012 Topps Mike Trout Auto PSA/DNA 10: As Trout’s true rookie card from his breakout AL RoP/MVP season, the 2012 Topps base card is extremely widespread yet still highly valuable with his autograph. PSA/DNA Perfect 10 quality slabs usually sell for $10,000-15,000 due to the eye-popping grade. Slightly lower graded examples in PSA 9-9.5 can be had for $5,000-10,000 still.

2013 Topps Mike Trout Autograph BGS 9.5: The beauty of Trout’s sophomore card is that it captures him in an Angels uniform during his ascension into full-fledged superstardom. High-end Mint BGS 9.5+10 slabs command $5,000-10,000 given how cleanly the autos usually grade on these cards. Less expensive PSA 9 options exist around $3,000-4,000 too.

2014 Topps Mike Trout Auto PSA 10: Trout’s first AL MVP season remains one of the most famous in recent Angels history. Pristine PSA 10 examples are very tough to track down under $4,000-5,000 due to the perfect condition and significance of the year. Even raw unsigned copies from this set sell for hundreds.

Aside from his main Topps flagship cards, some other notable Trout autographed cards that can also reach the thousands include:

2012 Bowman Sterling Mike Trout Auto BGS 9.5/10: Trout’s first Bowman Sterling design was low-printed and captures his breakout on luxurious silver parallels.

2014 Topps Update Mike Trout Mini Bat Knob Auto PSA 10: Contains rare “relic” material from Trout embedded in this mini-sized flagship card.

2016 Topps Allen & Ginter Mike Trout Script Auto BGS 9.5/10: Uses an elegant autograph style in a very limited insert set.

As Trout continues cementing his Hall of Fame case and chasing milestones, the demand and appreciation for every aspect of his prodigious career will surely increase over time. His autographed cards from his magical rookie year up to present day will undoubtedly remain among the most legendary modern investments and collectibles in the hobby for decades to come. With Trout still in his early 30s playing at an MVP level, there is plenty of magic left for new autographed memorabilia to be added to the prestigious list.

MIKE EPSTEIN BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Epstein had a relatively short but productive Major League Baseball career, playing primarily as a first baseman from 1967 to 1975. Though he never made an All-Star team or won any major awards, Epstein made his mark through consistently strong performances at the plate during his nine seasons. This led to him becoming a popular player who was prominently featured on several vintage baseball cards during his playing days.

Epstein debuted as a rookie for the Baltimore Orioles in 1967 at just 20 years old. That season, he started 82 games at first base and batted .263 with 15 home runs and 51 runs batted in (RBIs). This hot start led to Epstein receiving honors as the American League’s Rookie of the Year. His accomplishments in his first MLB campaign made him a desirable young star, so he was well represented on baseball cards from that year.

One of Epstein’s most notable early rookie cards comes from the 1967 Topps set, which was one of the most widely produced issues of that era. The design of his rookie card shows him in an Orioles road gray uniform, crouched at the plate with bat in hand. The simple yet iconic look of 1967 Topps cards elevated Epstein’s rookie card to becoming a key piece for collectors of both the player and the brand. Epstein also received a card in the 1967 Sporting News set that year as well as regional issues from Bowman and Fleer.

In 1968, Epstein followed up his stellar debut season by hitting .276 with 22 home runs and 84 RBIs while establishing himself as Baltimore’s everyday first baseman. He continued developing into a feared middle-of-the-order run producer, which kept his baseball cards in high demand. Epstein was again included in the 1968 Topps set amid other stars of the day like Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, and Sandy Koufax. Many consider the 1968 Topps design to be one of the most visually appealing in the brand’s history.

Epstein’s talents at the plate earned him continuous inclusion in the annual Topps issues through the remainder of his time with the Orioles from 1969 to 1971. Collectors enjoyed following the highlights of his career year-by-year through these cardboard release. In 1971, Epstein batted a career-high .288 to go along with 28 homers and 95 RBIs for Baltimore. That production landed him the 8th spot in AL MVP voting, showing he was among the elite sluggers in baseball during this peak stretch.

The 1971 season also marked the beginning of Epstein’s playing career winding down. He was surprisingly traded to the California Angels after the season, where he spent 1972. Epstein remained a reliable bat for the Angels, bashing 21 home runs that year. It kept collectors entertained by the perspective of seeing the familiar Epstein featured in an Angels uniform on his 1972 Topps card rather than an Orioles one for the first time.

After one season in Anaheim, Epstein was on the move again, shipped to the Boston Red Sox for 1973. At age 28, he was in the twilight of his career but still managed 17 homers and 60 RBIs as the Red Sox’s regular designated hitter and occasional first base fill-in. Epstein’s 1973 Topps card, marking his third different team over three years, captured this late-career transition period.

Epstein bounced back to Baltimore for a brief stint in 1974, where he hit 10 home runs in just 107 at-bats before ending his MLB tenure with 18 games for the Chicago White Sox in 1975. While in the final seasons of his nine-year career, Epstein’s baseball cards became more collectible simply due to their scarcity since he was no longer a regular starter. His 1974 and 1975 Topps issues hold nostalgic value for fans remembering Epstein’s contributions despite playing on deteriorating legs in his later days.

In total, Mike Epstein hit 175 career home runs and drove in 606 runs while batting .258 over 9 MLB seasons split between 5 different franchises. Though not a Hall of Famer, Epstein made his mark through sheer offensive production and was considered a feared power hitter of his era in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His baseball cards remain popular collectibles amongst fans who appreciate remembering the journeyman slugger’s borderline Hall of Fame caliber career portrayed in cardboard form year after year. With solid performance and annual inclusion across many 1960s and 1970s issues, Mike Epstein developed a strong following amongst collectors—cementing him as one of the most memorable players to be featured on vintage baseball cards.

MIKE TROUT BASEBALL CARDS GOLD

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Mike Trout has established himself as one of the greatest baseball players of all time in his still young career. As a result, Trout’s rookie cards and other early career cards have become enormously valuable on the collectors market in recent years. Mike Trout cards printed with gold foilParallel Printing have become some of the most sought after and valuable modern baseball cards in existence.

Trout debuted with the Los Angeles Angels in 2011 and immediately began putting up superstar caliber stats. Even though he won the American League Rookie of the Year award that season, Trout was not yet a household name for most casual baseball fans or collectors. As a result, his 2011 Topps Update Series rookie card sold for around $10-20 for several years. While enthusiasts recognized Trout’s ability, mainstream attention and demand for his cards had not yet materialized.

That all changed starting in 2014 when Trout truly emerged as a two-time AL MVP and perennial superstar. Suddenly everyone wanted Trout rookie cards, driving prices up dramatically. Even common Trout rookie cards from 2011 became scarce as collectors scrambled to find them. Topps also issued several parallels and short print variations of Trout’s rookie card over the years to satisfy collector demand.

One of the most coveted parallel variations is Trout’s 2011 Topps Update Series card featuring gold parallel printing. Topps inserted a limited number of Trout rookie cards with gold foil stamping instead of the standard color onto the trading card stock. These golden Trout rookies announced to collectors that they had an extra scarce, premium parallel in their possession.

Topps is known to produce short print editions and parallel inserts with different color foil stamping, particularly for their biggest stars. The rarest parallels like refractors, autographs or special color variations command huge premiums. Even among parallels, the gold foil stamped versions tend to be the most coveted after the ultra-rare 1/1 printing plates.

For Trout’s rookie card, experts believe the Topps gold parallel printing run was roughly 1 per case of Topps Update Series product. With a normal case containing 24 packs with 12 cards each, that works out to around 1 in every 2,400 packs containing the gold Trout rookie. Given the massive popularity of Trout cards since 2014, finding any unopened 2011 product with a chance to contain the gold parallel is exceedingly rare in itself.

Naturally, with such a tiny printed quantity coupled with years of escalating demand, prices for the Trout gold parallel rookie skyrocketed. While the standardTrout rookie now trades for $100-500 depending on grading quality, the golds routinely sell for tens of thousands. One PSA 10 Gem Mint grade example sold for $46,000 back in 2020, showing no signs of the frenzied bull market slowing down.

Mike Trout has continued shattering records and cementing his place as one of the all-time greats now in his early 30s. As long as he plays at an MVP level, interest in his early career cards will remain intense. Collectors love following the careers of potentialHall of Fame talents from their earliest known producedcard. Trout has matched if not surpassed the hype around his potential dating back to his debut.

With each passing year, pristine examples of Trout’s short-printed gold parallel rookie card become harder and harder to find in high grades. Even wear andtear copies in PSA 8 or Beckett 8.5 grade have traded hands for $10,000 recently. As one of the rarest Trout cards with bold gold foil drawing the eye, this parallel version perfectly encapsulates the investment craze around the superstar outfielder’s early issues.

Whether he endsup breaking every offensive record or just cementing his current Hall of Fame trajectory, Trout looks poised to go down as the best baseball player of his generation. As that level of greatness and nostalgia sets in years from now, gold parallel rookies from his age 24 season will no doubtfetch astronomical sums. Much like legendary parallels of Mickey Mantle, Brady Anderson or other all-time greats regularly sell for over $100,000 today.

The holy grails of Mike Trout card collecting have arrived, and they come adorned in gold. As his amazing career continues to unfold, the ultra-rare 2011 Topps Update Gold Parallels seem sure to gain even more luster and demand and price appreciation over the coming decades. They set the standard not only as the most valuable Trout rookies, but also as iconic cards representingsports memorabilia at its highest levels of investment value.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1980 MIKE SCHMIDT

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Mike Schmidt was one of the greatest third basemen to ever play Major League Baseball. During his illustrious career that spanned from 1972 to 1989, all with the Philadelphia Phillies, Schmidt smashed 548 home runs and drove in 1,595 runs. He was a 10-time All-Star, won the National League MVP award three times, and helped lead the Phillies to their first World Series championship in 1980. Not surprisingly, baseball cards featuring Mike Schmidt from the late 1970s and early 1980s are highly sought after by collectors today. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top Mike Schmidt cards from 1980 and what they are currently selling for in the collectibles market based on the condition and demand for each particular card issue.

One of the most iconic and valuable Mike Schmidt cards from 1980 is his rookie card from Topps. As the #534 card in the set, Schmidt’s rookie card depicts him in a Phillies uniform from the waist up with a serious expression on his face. The design is clean and simple with “Mike Schmidt” printed at the top and his rookie card designation (#1) and stats from 1973, his first MLB season, on the bottom. High grade 1980 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie cards in near mint to mint condition regularly sell for $1,000 or more. In pristine mint condition with sharp corners and no flaws, exemplary Schmidt rookie cards from this set have sold for over $2,500. Even well-centered examples in excellent condition still command prices of $500-$800. So for collectors looking to add one of the game’s true power hitters’ rookie cards to their collection, Schmidt’s 1980 Topps issue is a must-have.

Another iconic Schmidt card from 1980 is his main issue in the Donruss set. Pictured from the waist up in a Phillies uniform with the team name across the top, Schmidt has a serious expression and is staring directly at the camera. The design is clean and simple like his Topps rookie. High grade 1980 Donruss Mike Schmidt cards in near mint to mint condition with sharp corners and no flaws typically sell in the $400-$600 range. Even well-centered near mint copies still sell for $200 or more due to the strong demand for this card of one of the game’s true sluggers. Schmidt’s stats from 1979 are listed on the bottom along with his player number “20”. For collectors looking for a classic Schmidt card from his playing days, this popular 1980 Donruss issue fits the bill.

Schmidt also had prominent cards in several other 1980 sets beyond Topps and Donruss that are highly sought after by collectors today. In the Fleer set that year, Schmidt’s main card shows him from the waist up in a Phillies uniform with a serious expression. Fleer utilized a unique borderless design in 1980. High grade copies of Schmidt’s 1980 Fleer card in near mint to mint condition with sharp corners and no flaws have sold for $300-$500. Even well-centered near mint copies still command $150-$250. Schmidt also had a prominent card in the 1980 Kellogg’s 3-D Baseball Card Set that year. This eye-catching card shows Schmidt from the side in his Phillies uniform with one eye popping out in 3-D. High grade copies have sold for $200-$350.

Schmidt also appeared in several regional sets in 1980 in addition to the national brands. One of the more valuable regional issues is his card from the 1980 Philadelphia Phillies Team Set. This photo card captures Schmidt head on in a Phillies uniform with his number “20” on his jersey. High grade copies have sold for $150-$250. Schmidt also had cards in the 1980 Philadelphia-based Gum Inc. and Philadelphia Chewing Gum Company sets that year. Near mint to mint copies of Schmidt’s cards from these Philadelphia-centric regional issues have sold for $75-$150 depending on condition and eye appeal.

Schmidt’s dominance at the plate made him one of the most feared power hitters in the National League throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. His accomplishments helped lead the Phillies franchise to its first World Series title in 1980. Not surprisingly, baseball cards from Schmidt’s playing days, especially prominent issues from 1980, are highly sought after by collectors today. Near mint to mint copies of his iconic rookie card from 1980 Topps and other premier cards from sets like Donruss, Fleer and Kellogg’s that year regularly sell for hundreds of dollars. High grade regional cards depicting Schmidt from his 1980 championship season also command substantial prices. Mike Schmidt cards are a great investment for any serious baseball card collector looking to add one of the game’s true sluggers from the 1970s and 1980s to their collection.

In conclusion, 1980 was a pivotal season for Mike Schmidt and the Philadelphia Phillies franchise. Schmidt’s dominance at the plate was a major factor in the Phillies capturing their first World Series title that year. Not surprisingly, baseball cards produced in 1980 that featured “Mike Schmidt” are extremely popular with collectors today. Whether it’s his iconic rookie card from Topps or prominent issues from sets like Donruss, Fleer and Kellogg’s, near mint to mint copies regularly sell for hundreds of dollars due to strong demand. Regional issues from 1980 depicting Schmidt in a Phillies uniform from his championship season also carry substantial values. Overall, Mike Schmidt cards will always be a great long-term investment for any serious baseball card collector looking to add one of the game’s true power hitters from the late 1970s and early 1980s to their collection.

MIKE SQUIRES BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Squires became a legendary figure in the hobby of baseball card collecting. Though he never played professionally in the major leagues himself, Squires made his mark by doing what he loved – seeking out and acquiring rare vintage baseball cards. His prominent hobby career spanning decades made him renowned among collectors nationwide.

Squires was born in 1952 in Flint, Michigan and developed a passion for baseball at a young age by listening to Detroit Tigers games on the radio. As a boy in the 1960s, he began actively collecting cards and was always on the hunt for exciting finds to add to his collection. Throughout high school and college, Squires continued amassing cards and gained valuable experience and knowledge about the secondary vintage baseball card market.

In the 1970s, after graduating from Michigan State University, Squires was able to transition collecting into a full-time business venture. He opened Mike’s Sports Cards, one of the first dedicated baseball card specialty shops in the United States. Located in Flint, the store became a popular destination for collectors across Michigan and the Midwest to trade, sell and purchase items. Through the shop, Squires was able to acquire many valuable vintage cards that collectors of the era eagerly sought.

One of Squires’ most prized early finds was acquiring one of the elusive 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner baseball cards. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, the ultra-rare Wagner is widely considered the most valuable trading card in existence. Squires purchased what became known as the “Squires Wagner” in the mid-1970s for around $5,000, a substantial sum at that time but a bargain compared to the millions it would be worth today. Having this prized piece in his collection elevated Squires’ notoriety among collectors immensely.

Throughout the 1980s, Squires continued growing his business and making headlines in the hobby for acquiring and re-selling notable vintage cards. He expanded Mike’s Sports Cards to two additional locations and placed advertisements in leading collector publications to reach a national customer base. Some of Squires’ biggest pre-1990 transactions included a 1911 Turkey Red Cabinets Nap Lajoie for $25,000, a Piedmont 180 Nap Lajoie for $50,000, and a high-grade 1914 Cracker Jack Johnny Evers for $65,000. Each demonstrated then-record pricing that shattered previous assumptions of values.

Entering the speculative boom of the early 1990s, Squires fully embraced his role as one of the most influential figures driving values and setting record prices in the hobby. Along with sports memorabilia dealer Bill Mastro, the pair set new standards by completing a private sale of the “Gretzky T206 Wagner” for over $500,000 in 1991. Their transaction was documented in the Wall Street Journal and cemented the Wagner as a verifiable million-dollar card over a decade before one would transact publicly at auction.

Through the remainder of the decade, Squires remained the hobby’s most prominent dealer and consulent on fine vintage rarities. When the Piedmont 180 Nap Lajoie traded privately for $110,000 in 1992, it was through Squires. He consigned an extraordinary high-grade 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth for auction, where it brought $64,000. And Squires broke his own records in 1995 by privately selling two different 1910 E90 Old Mill Tobacco Honus Wagner cards for amounts estimated between $500,000-$750,000 each.

While the baseball card market experienced a bust in the late 1990s, Squires continued focusing on elite vintage pieces through the early 2000s. His brand remained synonymous with the rarest of the rare. A major transaction came in 2005 when he brokered a private sale of one of the finest known T206 Wagners, widely considered the single finest example in existence. Though financial details were not released, estimates placed the price in excess of $1 million, highlighting the card’s transcendence as a million-dollar commodity.

Sadly, Mike Squires passed away in 2007 at the young age of 54 after battling cancer. By that point, he had undoubtedly established himself as one of the all-time most impactful figures in the history of the hobby. Through dedication to his passion and impeccable business acumen, Squires helped transform baseball cards from a childhood pursuit to a legitimate collectibles market. By facilitating record-breaking transactions of the rarest vintage cards over multiple decades, he helped define their modern valuations and preserve them for generations of future collectors to enjoy. Squires left an indelible mark and remains legendary for his love of the hobby and passion for the cards. His approval or expertise on a vintage rarity remains highly coveted today among collectors worldwide.

In the years since his passing, several of Squires’ prized personal collection cards have been auctioned off, maintaining their immense value. His personal “Squires Wagner” sold in 2016 for $2.8 million, reasserting its status as one of the most valuable trading cards in existence. A PSA NM-MT 8 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth also owned by Squires brought over $275,000 at auction in 2018. Each new record sets a fitting tribute to the man who did more than perhaps anyone to establish the greats of the vintage era as financially significant works of art. Mike Squires’ legacy and impact on the hobby are immortal and ensure his memory will live on alongside the cards he so loved.

MOST VALUABLE MIKE SCHMIDT BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Schmidt is one of the greatest third basemen to ever play Major League Baseball. Over his 19-year career with the Philadelphia Phillies from 1972 to 1989, Schmidt smashed 548 home runs and won 10 Gold Glove Awards on defense. He was named the National League MVP Award three times and led the Phillies to their first World Series championship in 1980. Unsurprisingly, his baseball cards from his playing days are some of the most coveted and valuable in the hobby. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Schmidt’s top cards and what factors make them so desirable to serious collectors.

One of Schmidt’s crown jewel rookie cards is his 1973 Topps card. As one of the first widely available cards issued of the rising slugger, the 1973 Topps #658 has long been a key piece in any serious Schmidt collection. In gem mint condition, ungraded examples in this condition have sold for over $5,000 in recent years. If the card receives top grades of Mint 9 or Mint 10 from professional grading companies like PSA or BGS, values leap into the $8,000-$12,000 range. The 1973 issue marked Schmidt’s true rookie card debut and captured him in his early Phillies seasons before he established himself as a superstar. Clean high-grade versions command huge premiums because of their scarcity.

Another iconic Schmidt rookie is his 1972 World Series card from the annual Playball set produced that year. As one of the earliest available cards featuring “Mike Schmidt Phillies” on the front, the 1972 Playball card carries significant rookie pedigree, despite not technically being considered his true Topps rookie. Graded examples in Mint 8 or higher can bring in $3,000-$5,000 at auction depending on the population of higher grades. The card’s scarcity and visual significance as one of Schmidt’s first baseball cards issued make it a prized piece for serious collectors.

Schmidt’s true rookie season was actually 1971, but mainstream card manufacturers didn’t feature him that year. In the 1970s smaller regional card companies released sets targeting Philadelphia-area collectors that included Schmidt rookie cards years before Topps. One such scarce card is his 1971 Berks County Baseball issue, which often sells in the $800-$1,200 range for well-centered, intact versions. An even rarer Schmidt rookie is his 1971 Little Golden Philadelphia, only available in packs sold locally in the Philadelphia area during his debut season. If an example surfaces in high grade, it could command over $2,000. These ultra-rare early 1970s Phillies cards capture Schmidt in the infancy of his career.

In the 1980s, Schmidt entered his later MLB years and prime seasons with the Phillies. Perhaps the most recognizable card from this decade is his 1981 Fleer #132 card, which showcases Schmidt launching a home run. High-grade copies command huge sums, with PSA Gem Mint 10B versions selling for over $5,000 in recent sales. The iconic Fleer design and photo from Schmidt’s period of NL MVP dominance makes it an essential piece of his collection. His 1985 Topps Traded #63T card is also highly coveted, as it presents one of Schmidt’s final baseball card images in a Phillies uniform before retirement. Pristine mint condition copies can reach upwards of $800 for this late-career parallel issue.

Another major key Schmidt card comes from his 1981 Donruss Football Heroes subset. This insert features Schmidt in a nod to his brief and little-known minor league stint in football’s World Football League before focusing fully on baseball. Only 330 copies were printed, making it one of the true “holy grail” pieces for serious Mike Schmidt collectors. In near-pristine condition, it is valued at over $20,000, with higher grades potentially worth exponentially more as condition rarities. Its amazing rarity and connection to a bizarre footnote in Schmidt’s athletic past make it a true treasure.

Of course, Schmidt’s greatest moment came when he led the long-suffering Phillies to their first World Series title in 1980. Cards from Topps, Post, and other manufacturers that year highlighting Philadelphia’s championship carry premiums as a result. But perhaps the most significant is Schmidt’s iconic 1980 Topps Traded #100T gold stamp parallel issue. Limited to only 100 copies printed, this 1-of-100 card captured Schmidt celebrating on the mound after the final out of the 1980 Fall Classic. In Gem Mint condition, not a single verified graded example has ever crossed the auction block. Its unbelievable rarity and placement in Phillies lore make it arguably the single most valuable Mike Schmidt card in existence, with most experts speculating an unsigned PSA 10 could fetch well over $100,000.

In conclusion, Mike Schmidt’s tremendous playing career and significance to Philadelphia baseball history have made his vintage cards hugely sought after over the decades. From key early 1970s rookie issues to defining 1981 and championship 1980 cards, his top cards frequently command five-figure prices for high-grade copies. But the true crown jewels, like his 1981 Football Heroes insert or 1980 Topps Traded Gold #100T parallel, have the potential to shatter records due to their incredible condition rarity tied to one of the game’s all-time great sluggers. Schmidt’s legendary status continues to be reflected in the stratospheric values achieved for his classic baseball cards in the hobby.

MIKE TROUT BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Mike Trout has established himself as one of the greatest baseball players of all time in his relatively short career so far. As a result, Trout’s rookie cards and career accomplishments have made his baseball cards extremely valuable for collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Mike Trout’s most prized cards and how his dominance on the field has translated to huge card values.

Trout burst onto the MLB scene in 2011 with the Los Angeles Angels and immediately began shattering records and expectations. His rookie card debut came in 2012 Topps Series 1 and Series 2. While production numbers on these were high given his breakout rookie year, the condition and serial number of a Trout rookie drastically impacts its price. In a PSA 10 gem mint condition, the 2012 Topps Series 1 Trout rookie has sold for well over $10,000. Even lower graded versions still command thousands because of Trout’s superstar status.

The huge increase in value of Trout’s cards has been driven by his unprecedented combination of power, speed, defense, and consistency at such a young age. At just 30 years old, Trout has already racked up an MVP award, 8 All Star appearances, and two AL Hank Aaron awards. He’s posted a career OPS well over 1.000 and is on pace to break numerous all-time MLB records. With no signs of slowing down, the prices for Trout’s early career cards, like his rookies, have steadily risen year after year.

Part of the allure of Trout cards is tracking his evolution from hugely hyped rookie to undisputed best player in baseball. 2012 Panini Golden Age Platinum rookie patch autograph parallels number to just 5 copies and have reached over $50,000 in auction. Trout’s 2013 Topps Update #TU-13 card number parallel to 13 copies holds a record at $28,800. Perhaps most notably, Trout’s 2014 Topps Update Series #US299 career statistics checklist variation numbers only 1 copy in existence and set a record in 2016 at $86,688 on eBay. Tracking the ever increasing statistics on the back of this 1/1 card as Trout destroys records is a huge factor in its immense value.

While the lowest print runs and serial numbered parallels hold records, even Trout’s base rookie cards in top grades have reached astronomical heights. His 2012 Bowman Sterling #BS-MT base rookie reached $51,120 for a PSA 10 in 2020, proving demand for all things Trout remains mind bogglingly high. The 2012 Topps Opening Day #OD-MT base set the record that same year even higher at $65,250. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar simply to own any certified mint condition piece of Trout’s career in card form.

A true testament to Trout’s popularity and legend has been his multiple Topps Update cards spanning from his debut to present day. While production numbers increased over the years, his rising statistics and accomplishments skyrocketed values of each Update card release. Low serial # parallels remain out of reach for most, but even PSA 10 base copies consistently rank among the priciest Update issue cards on the market year over year. Some estimates say Trout Update base cards from 2013-2015 in mint condition average $1,000-$2,000 a piece at minimum.

Trout playing his entire decorated career so far with the Angels has also made team-specific cards highly important to collectors. 2012 Topps Finest Los Angeles Angels #FA-MT Orange Refractor parallels number to just 5 and sold for $40,000. But even base Angels roster cards like 2016 Donruss Optic #93 consistently fetch hundreds in high grades due to Trout’s presence boosting values. Regionally, his 2011 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects Orange Refractor Auto Parallel /25 holds the Angels record at $28,800. Any card firmly establishing Trout as an Angel superstar parallels demand while supplies dwindle.

As we look ahead to the approaching end of Trout’s already Hall of Fame caliber career, it’s difficult to imagine the prices his rare cards may someday reach in the future. Even with years left, he’s achieved so much that his early cards today are viewed as some of the most historically significant in the modern game. Trout’s above average physique also bodes well for him staying healthy enough to continue smashing milestones. As long as he plays at his otherworldly level into his 30’s, interest and prices for his entire card collection will likely remain on an upwards trajectory for decades to come. Simply put, Mike Trout cards of any variety are a sound investment for any budget given his standing as perhaps the best all around player ever.

MIKE SCHMIDT TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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Mike Schmidt is widely considered one of the greatest third basemen in baseball history. Over his illustrious career with the Philadelphia Phillies that spanned from 1972-1989, Schmidt dominated at the plate with prodigious power and defensive excellence at the hot corner. His accomplishments make him one of the most collectible and sought-after players when it comes to vintage baseball cards, especially his Topps issues from the 1970s and 80s.

Schmidt debuted with the Phillies in 1972 and immediately found success. His rookie card from that year’s Topps set is one of the most valuable from the entire decade. Sporting the canonical Topps design of the early 70s, the card captures a 20-year-old Schmidt in his Phillies road uniform. While he did not put up huge numbers that first partial season, card collectors recognized his budding superstar potential right away. PSA 10 gem mint examples of Schmidt’s 1972 Topps rookie routinely sell for well over $10,000 today, a true indicator of his legendary playing career and collectible status.

The 1973 Topps card was Schmidt’s first full season in the bigs and he began to show flashes of his prodigious power. The card depicts “Mike” in classic green and red Phillies home silks, helmet less to show off his thick curly hair. He hit 25 home runs that ’73 campaign, and collectors took notice that a true slugger was emerging. High grade versions of this card now trade hands for $500-$1,000, more affordable than the rookie but still coveted for representing Schmidt’s breakout season.

Schmidt absolutely exploded offensively in 1974, smashing 36 home runs and knocking in 113 RBI en route to his first NL MVP award. His ’74 Topps issue jumped in value accordingly, now one of the most iconic from the entire set due to Schmidt in his prime Phillies uniform. The iconic red script lettering spelling out “Schmidt” has become synonymous with the third baseman’s dominance. Pristine PSA 10 examples now sell for well over $10,000, a true trophy card from the height of Schmidt’s playing career.

The 1975-1978 Topps runs were some of Schmidt’s best seasons statistically. He averaged 40+ homers and 120+ RBI yearly, showing off legendary raw power that would come to define his career. Each of his cards from this era, especially high grade copies, are hugely expensive given his all-time production. His familiar smiles and stances in Phillies home whites endeared him to fans and collectors alike. The 1977 card in particular exploded in value as it was Schmidt’s second MVP season hitting a career high 48 home runs that year. PSA 10’s sell north of $20,000, among the costliest from any 1970’s set.

Throughout the late 70s and early 80s, Schmidt’s Topps issues followed the script – huge offensive numbers led to iconic cards that have stood the test of time. The designs changed yearly but Schmidt’s excellence didn’t waver. Highlights include a monster 1980 campaign yielding 48 HR that was captured on that year’s sticker, as well as 3 more MVPs between 1980-81. Even as he entered his late 30s, Schmidt was still cranking 30 bombs a year. This longevity made his later issues extremely collectible as well for encapsulating a once-in-a-generation player’s full career.

Schmidt’s last Topps card came in 1989, retiring after yet another All-Star caliber season at age 40. It’s one of the most sentimental issues from the late 80s set due to commemorating such an incredible 17-year Phillies career coming to an end. Considered a true full-circle moment, high grade ’89s in Phiilies road grey sell for $500-1000. With over 500 career home runs, 10 Gold Gloves and 12 All-Star nods, Schmidt cemented his legend andhis entire Topps run skyrocketed him into the echelon of the set’s most valuable modern stars.

In summary, Mike Schmidt’s dominance as arguably the greatest third baseman ever translated perfectly to the vintage card market. Each of his Topps issues from 1972-1989 hold important collective value for different reasons – rookie cards, MVP seasons, raw longevity. But what they all have in common is capturing one of baseball’s true titans in his playing prime, making Schmidt the quintessential example of on-field greatness directly correlating to strong collectible demand decades later. With consistent Hall of Fame caliber performance year over year, Schmidt amassed an unparalleled collection of iconic baseball cards that remain hugely desirable amongst investors and enthusiasts alike.