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BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1965 MICKEY MANTLE

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The 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle baseball card is one of the most iconic and valuable cards in the entire hobby. Mantle, known as “The Mick”, was a true legend who played his entire 18-year career with the New York Yankees from 1951-1968. He was a phenomenal switch hitter who could hit for both power and average and was considered by many to be the greatest switch hitter of all time.

In 1965, Mantle was already well into his Hall of Fame career but still producing at a high level at age 33. That year, he batted .265 with 23 home runs and 88 RBI in 151 games played. While those numbers were a bit down from his peak years in the 1950s, Mantle was still one of the game’s biggest stars. Topps recognized Mantle’s star power and iconic status by featuring him prominently on the 1965 set.

The 1965 Topps design featured a photo of the player on a white background with their team logo and name underneath. Mantle’s card uses a classic action shot of him swinging the bat. The photo perfectly captures the raw power and intensity that he brought to every at-bat. Above the photo is the bold red “Mantle” nameplate in classic Topps style font. On the bottom is the Yankees logo and “New York” text. It’s a clean, simple design that allows Mantle’s image to take center stage – as it should for one of baseball’s all-time greats.

In terms of rarity and population, the 1965 Topps set has a much higher print run compared to the scarce 1952 and 1956 rookie cards that are considered the true Mantle gems. Even so, high grade 1965 Mantle rookies command enormous prices due to the player featured and the iconic nature of the card design itself. Here’s a breakdown of estimated value ranges for PSA-graded 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle cards:

PSA 1 – Poor – $500-750
PSA 2 – Poor – $750-1,000
PSA 3 – Good – $1,000-1,500
PSA 4 – Very Good – $1,500-2,500
PSA 5 – Excellent – $2,500-4,000
PSA 6 – Excellent – $4,000-6,000
PSA 7 – Mint – $6,000-10,000
PSA 8 – Gem Mint – $10,000-15,000
PSA 9 – Mint – $15,000-25,000
PSA 10 – Gem Mint – $25,000+

As you can see, prices increase dramatically the higher the grade gets, especially once a PSA 9 or 10 designation is achieved. Those ultra high graded 1965 Mantle rookies are the true blue chip specimens that can sell for well over $25,000 when they come up for auction.

There are a few key factors that drive the value of 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle cards to such stratospheric levels compared to other vintage cards from the same era:

Mickey Mantle is simply one of the most iconic players in baseball history. He was a true 5-tool superstar who dominated the sport as a Yankee for nearly two decades.

The 1965 design is considered one of Topps’ finest and most aesthetically pleasing over their long history. It allows Mantle’s image to really pop off the card in an understated way.

The 1965 set has a higher print run than Mantle’s true rookie cards. So finding high grade ’65 Mantles requires beating longer odds in terms of both centering and condition compared to ’52 and ’56 issues.

Mantle cards in general have always held cache and attracted avid collectors due to his status as a Yankee icon playing in New York during their dynasty years. Demand has always been high.

The card is truly a “holy grail” for vintage baseball card collectors. Finding that elusive PSA 10 is the pinnacle achievement and trophies like those rarely come on the market for sale.

The 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle is the card that all collectors aspire to own in high grade. Few vintage cards can match its iconic subject, beautiful design, and sky-high prices – especially for PSA 9 and 10 examples. As one of the true blue chip specimens from the 1960s era, the ’65 Mantle is assuredly one of the most valuable vintage cards in the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE CHECKER

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Baseball cards are a beloved hobby for many collectors. With millions of cards in circulation from over a century of the sport, it can be difficult to know the value of individual cards in one’s collection. This is where baseball cards price checkers come in. These online tools allow collectors to quickly look up estimates of how much their cards may be worth based on factors like player, year, condition, and more.

When using a price checker, there are a few key things to keep in mind to get the most accurate valuation possible. First, condition is paramount. Most checkers allow you to select between grades like Near Mint, Excellent, Good, Poor. Be as objective as possible when grading your own cards – even a small difference in condition can impact value significantly. Top-graded Mint or Gem Mint cards in the best possible shape can be worth 10x or more than the same card in Poor condition.

The player featured on the card also matters greatly. Superstar Hall of Famers from baseball’s early days will naturally be worth more than most modern players. Even role players from way back can have value for completing sets. Rookie cards, especially for star players, also command big premiums. Checkers allow filtering by player to quickly see which names tend to hold their worth best over decades.

Set and year of issue are other essential details. Flagship releases like Topps, Fleer, and Bowman are more valuable than lesser-known brands. Within those, the earlier the year the better – but there are exceptions. Some late-run sets have cult followings that drive up individual card prices. Checkers make it simple to select the exact set and year a card needs to be valued from.

Beyond just condition and player specifics, there are other auction trends that impact baseball card values recorded by online checkers. Certain parallels, autographs, memorabilia cards, and especially 1-of-1 unique editions can spike a standard card value exponentially. Checkers note special variations that may not be visible just by card front/back image alone.

Population reports are another useful tool provided by many checkers. This data shows how many graded examples exist of a given card in each condition level. Highly scarce Pop 1 or 2 cards in top grades will demand huge premiums versus a common card with thousands in the same grade. Population helps explain price differences beyond just player/year/set.

When using the results, it’s best not to assume the first price listed is a guaranteed sale value. Most checkers provide a range, with the lower bound being a conservative estimate and the higher end being an optimistic ceiling. Recent sales data is ideal to use, not just a generic market value. Factors like current player performance or milestone anniversaries may also temporarily boost certain cards above their normal rates.

For true accuracy, nothing quite beats checking current or recently sold listings on major auction sites. Most checkers integrate this live market data to constantly update their price databases. But for a quick overview of approximate card worth, online baseball price checkers remain invaluable tools for any collector to evaluate holdings or find bargains in the collecting world. With the right information entered, they provide a solid starting point to understand the potential value hidden in one’s collection.

Baseball cards price checkers streamline the process of valuing cards for collectors. Factors like condition, player, set/year, and population all impact prices. But these tools account for those variables and surface ballpark estimates. Then cross-referencing recent sales confirms estimated values. With diligent use of checkers and auction sites, any collector can gain a stronger sense of their collection’s overall worth and which individual pieces may be worth investing further research or upgrading grades through professional grading services. Price checkers are an invaluable first step for any collector looking to better understand the value and potential of their baseball card collection.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1990 O-PEE-CHEE

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The 1990 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set was produced by O-Pee-Chee, the Canadian subsidiary of Topps, and features players from both the American and National Leagues. The set contains 204 total cards with player photos, biographies and stats on the front and back. While not the most valuable vintage baseball card set, the 1990 O-Pee-Chee cards provide collectors a snapshot of the game from that era and include several stars who were just beginning to emerge. Here is a detailed price guide and overview of some of the top cards from the 1990 O-Pee-Chee set.

The 1990 O-Pee-Chee set included many of the game’s biggest stars from that time such as Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roberto Alomar. The true stars and most valuable cards from the set are those that feature players who were early in their careers in 1990 and went on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers. For example, the rookie card of Ken Griffey Jr. is one of the key cards from the set. Griffey was already showing signs of greatness in 1990 with 19 home runs as a 20 year old and his card is among the most sought after. In near mint condition, Griffey’s 1990 O-Pee-Chee rookie card can fetch upwards of $150-$200.

Another star just starting his career in 1990 was Frank Thomas, who had a breakout season that year winning the AL Rookie of the Year award. Thomas slugged 31 home runs and drove in 105 runs in his first full season. His 1990 O-Pee-Chee rookie card in near mint condition is valued around $75-$100 currently. Two other young stars with valuable rookie cards from the set are Tom Glavine and David Justice. Glavine, already showing brilliance on the mound in 1990, has a rookie card worth around $50-$75 near mint. Justice, an emerging power hitter for the Braves, has a rookie valued at $30-$50. Both Glavine and Justice went on to have Hall of Fame careers, making their 1990 rookie cards a worthwhile investment.

In addition to rookie cards, the 1990 O-Pee-Chee set contains the last cards featuring legends of the game who were nearing the end of their careers. For example, the Nolan Ryan card has added value since it was one of the final cards issued of the all-time strikeout king before his retirement after the 1993 season. Ryan’s 1990 O-Pee-Chee is priced around $15-25 in near mint condition. Another legend with one of his last mainstream issued cards being in the 1990 O-Pee-Chee set is George Brett. Brett played just one more season in 1992 after 1990. His final mainstream card from this set sells for roughly $10-15. Collectors seek out the last cards featuring all-time greats to commemorate their careers.

The 1990 O-Pee-Chee set also included stars who were entering their primes such as Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Cal Ripken Jr, and Wade Boggs. While not rookies, these players were young and just beginning their ascent up the career leaderboards. Bonds’ monster 2001 season has overshadowed his early career, but he was already an elite player by 1990. His card from that year sells for around $5-10. McGwire’s monster home run seasons were still a few years away, but collectors recognize 1990 as marking his transition into stardom. His card has a value of $3-5. Ripken and Boggs were both established by 1990, but their cards remain popular for collectors at $2-4 each.

While not the most expensive vintage set, the 1990 O-Pee-Chee cards provide a great snapshot of the players and game from that era. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Thomas, Glavine and Justice give collectors a chance to own early career cards of legends at affordable prices compared to their more established years. Last career cards of legends like Ryan and Brett are also popular. With stars young and old, the 1990 O-Pee-Chee set offers collectors and investors several worthwhile cardboard opportunities to build a baseball collection.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the iconic and coveted releases from the late 1980s. With lively designs, vibrant photography, and highlighting stars from that era, the 1987 Donruss set remains a fan favorite today among collectors. Let’s take a closer look at the various cards, key rookies, grading factors, and estimated values based on the latest price guides.

The base set for 1987 Donruss totals 792 cards spanning all 26 Major League teams at the time. Some notable stars featured include Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Vince Coleman, and Kirby Puckett. The design theme is very flashy with colorful borders, team logos, and action shots of the players. On the front is the player photo along with their name and team written in a bold font. On the back is the standard career stats and biography section common in cards from that era.

Condition is extremely important when determining the value of any older issued card. For 1987 Donruss, the most sharply cut and centered cards that also maintain bright colors with no creases, bends, or edge wear will demand the highest prices. Anything graded Gem Mint 10 by professional companies like PSA or BGS can sometimes fetch over $100 for certain stars. Most common players in top- graded condition may sell in the $5-10 range. For raw, uncirted cards still in near mint state, expect $1-3 each on average.

Some key rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set that drew much attention include Gregg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Mark McGwire. Maddux’s famously low card number at #498 has made his one of the most iconic in the hobby. A PSA 10 grade would value around $1,500-2,000 today, while a high-grade raw copy may reach $100-200. Glavine at #661 and McGwire at #490 are also highly sought by collectors, with PSA 10’s of each around $300-500. Even in very nice near mint to mint condition, these rookie gems still demand $50-100 each.

A couple insert sets were also included with the base 1987 Donruss issue. The “Glossy Sendbacks” promotion included 33 short printed parallel puzzle backs to complete. Values range widely based on the particular player, from $3-10 for most common to $50-100 for stars. The Cup O’ Joe collector’s edition boxes also provided autographed cards of the 1987 Red Sox. In any grade, these autographed inserts reach $50-150 depending on the signed player.

There were also team leader subset cards mixed into factory wax packs that year. Highlighting the top playerstats on each club, stars featured included Wade Boggs for the Red Sox and Ozzie Smith for the Cardinals. As short prints, these parallel cards hold slightly more value than base versions. Even in well-loved condition, expect $3-15 each based on the player featured and specific grade.

When it comes to the truly rare and one-of-a-kind gems from 1987 Donruss, error cards and test issues take the cake. A miscut Mike Schmidt with part of the next card showing fetches well over $500. Test product promo samples of eventual starters like Mark McGwire number drastically less, running $100-250. Then ultra-rare proofs without statistics on the back bring massive sums upwards of $1,000-3,000 for elite talent in pristine condition. Considered the true “holy grails” by collectors.

The 1987 Donruss baseball card set remains a pillar of the vintage era that defined the hobby’s boom. Future Hall of Famers like Maddux and Glavine cemented their early careers with iconic rookie cards. Classic designs coupled with the excitement of the time period enshrined ’87 Donruss at the table of coveted sets from decades past. While common base cards hover around a few dollars or less, grading and short prints boost value significantly. The true gems approach price tags rivaling the rarest modern parallels. Condition is king, so preserving these vintage pieces properly honors their enduring legacy in the cardboard collecting world.

1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set was released at the start of that Major League Baseball season and featured 792 total cards. As with most other Topps baseball issues from the 1980s, the 1986 set remains a nostalgic favorite for collectors and fans of that era. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key cards, variations, and pricing insights from the 1986 Topps baseball price guide.

One of the headlining rookie cards in the 1986 set is that of Oakland A’s pitcher Dennis Eckersley. Eckersley would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily as a closer, capturing the American League Cy Young and MVP awards in 1992 with the A’s. High quality, well-centered Eckersley rookies in mint condition can fetch upwards of $100. Another notable rookie is that of Chicago Cubs outfielder Andre Dawson, who would also be elected to the Hall of Fame. Dawson rookies range from around $20-50 depending on centering and condition.

Two other high-value rookie cards include those of future 300-game winners Doug Drabek of the Pirates and Mark Langston of the Angels. Drabek and Langston rookies in gem mint condition can sell for $50-75. Additional prospects like Cleveland’s Julio Franco, Houston’s Bill Gullickson, and Montreal’s Tim Raines also have rookie cards that hold value, with mint examples selling between $15-30. Beyond the rookie cards, collectors seek sharp copies of veteran stars like Rickey Henderson, Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Roger Clemens.

Among the set’s variations that cause prices to rise are the “mini” cards found in the later series two portion of the set. Cards #733-792 featured dramatically shortened borders compared to the standard size used on the first 732 cards. Well-centered mini cards for big stars can achieve premiums over their standard counterparts. Another scarce variation is the photo variation of San Diego Padres reliever Goose Gossage on card #182. Instead of the standard pose, this Gossage card features an in-action action shot pulled from a previous Topps issue. Only a small number are believed to exist, with gem mint examples valued near $500.

Moving beyond individual star cards, the 1986 Topps baseball set also included several high-number parallel subsets that attract collector interest. The “Traded” subset tracks midseason player transactions with alternate photos, spanning cards #593-632. Complete traded sets in high grade often sell in the $150 range. An “All-Star” subset on cards #661-680 similarly features special designs and photos to highlight 1986 All-Star Game participants. Full higher-end All-Star sets can reach $100-150.

The flagship parallel subset remains the “Sp” variations found on select cards #1-100. Featuring wordmark logos instead of team names, these “Special” parallels remain condition-sensitive but are highly demanded. Complete gem mint “Sp” sets have achieved prices up to $1,000 due to their elusiveness. Other parallel subsets like Future Stars, Hall of Famers, Tightwad, and Record Breakers each contain around a dozen special design cards that hold interest as mini-collections.

Some of the most prominent 1986 Topps baseball stars like Don Mattingly, Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith only have a single Sp variation between them. As a result, finding those elite Sp cards in top grades is extremely difficult. The supply of high-end encapsulated examples has likely been exhausted, ensuring strong future demand and appreciation from avid 1986 Topps collectors.

While it may lack the true vintage cachet of pre-war issues, the 1986 Topps set remains a recognizable and cherished release for millions of baseball card collectors and fans. Cards of elite future Hall of Famers from their early careers combine with an array of innovative parallels to fuel ongoing collector interest and demand. Condition is still paramount, as lower grade commons and stars can be acquired for just pennies. But in top-notch MINT condition, the finest elite rookie and star cards plus complete premium insert subsets from the 1986 Topps set will undoubtedly retain and increase their value for dedicated collectors. Its combination of stars, prospects, and innovations continues to make the 1986 Topps baseball card set a mainstay for collectors old and new alike within the high-end vintage market.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1906 COLLECTORS

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Baseball cards first started appearing in the late 1800s as promotional inserts included with products like tobacco. The tobacco era is regarded as the true beginning of organized baseball card collection and trading among fans. In the early 1900s, the hobby started gaining more widespread popularity coinciding with baseball itself rising to become America’s pastime.

The 1906 T206 set is widely considered the high water mark of tobacco era issues and one of the most iconic in the entire history of baseball cards. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, these colorful and graphically artistic cards featured photos of players from both the American and National Leagues. Given their great scarcity and condition rarity over 100 years later, valuations for T206 cards in top grades now routinely climb into the six figure range and beyond for the most desired stars of that time like Honus Wagner.

For collectors building sets or acquiring singles in the early 1910s, tobacco packages were still the primary means of obtaining new T206 cards. The secondary market of trading with other collectors was starting to emerge as an important aspect too. Regional sports card and collectibles stores began opening their doors catering to this growing niche interest. Publications like Jefferson Burdick’s American Card Catalog also helped spread pricing guidelines within the then infantile hobby.

While very low population gem mint examples could be acquired for just a few dollars, common cards even in poor condition generally fell in the 25 cent to $1 range according to guides from that period. Star players in decent shape might reach $5. According to a 1913 issue of Burdick’s guide, a tobacco store in St. Louis was advertisement Edgeworth tobacco plug for 10 cents each along with choice T206 cards thrown in free as an added bonus. This gives collectors some perspective on retail pricing at the time compared to today.

For the highest graded specimens approaching true gem mint that survive over a century later, all guidance goes out the window. At a January 2013 Heritage Auctions sale, a PSA NM-MT 8 T206 Honus Wagner went for $2.8 million shattering all prior records. To properly understand the rarity of high grade T206 specimens, some key context is required. Through the early 1900s, these cards faced immense obstacles simply to survive even a few years in good condition.

Back when these cards were first issued and collected, proper long-term storage and preservation methods did not exist. Most found their way directly into the hands of young children or were left to the elements like extreme heat, humidity, and dirt. Chewing and smoking were also daily activities closely tied with baseball. Decks of cards were often left outside of flimsy paper protective sleeves. So the odds of any one T206 surviving pristine for over a century were astronomically low from the start.

For the average early 1900s collector, a solid very fine or fine example of a common player was still a prized possession. While $1 may have seemed like a hefty sum 100 years ago, it’s important to remember the much lower wages, purchasing power, and standard of living compared to today. A 1906 tobacco guide lists all but the most scarce T206 commons between 10 and 50 cents each. More coveted stars potentially reached the $1-2 range depending on condition for the time.

So in summary, 1906-1910s price guides provide collectors with useful historical context on rookie cards values when the sets were fresh. While an exceedingly rare gem T206 Wagner would be worth a small fortune today, the guidelines show fans enjoyed and traded these early cards at affordable levels relative to the early 20th century economy. Condition was still king even back then determining a card’s worth within the formats established by early hobby leaders like Burdick who helped foster baseball’s oldest and most revered collectibles market.

1993 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE PRICE GUIDE

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The 1993 Topps baseball card set is a beloved release among collectors and investors. It was the first year Topps issued cards without waferboard backs in over a decade. The photo updates and rookie class make it one of the more interesting sets of the early 1990s.

Prices for 1993 Topps cards will vary based on condition, player, and various other factors. While condition is king when determining baseball card value, rookie cards, star players, and unique parallels can still demand top dollar even in worn shape. This price guide aims to provide a general overview of 1993 Topps card values to help collectors get a sense of what to expect when buying, selling, or collecting this highly regarded set.

Base Cards
The base card design featured a large player photo with team name positioned diagonally across the bottom. Most common base cards in near mint to mint condition grade are worth somewhere between $0.25-$5, though key rookies and stars can exceed that range. More worn examples may only be worth a quarter.

Some noted exceptions for star player base cards in Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition include:
Ken Griffey Jr. – $15-25
Barry Bonds – $10-15
Frank Thomas – $8-12
Greg Maddux – $7-10
Tom Glavine – $5-8

Rookie Cards
Rookie cards from the 1993 set have historically held strong value over the long run. Top rookie cards to be on the lookout for include:

Derek Jeter – The crown jewel of the set. Jeter rookie cards in gem mint 10 grade have eclipsed $100,000 at auction. Near mint copies still fetch $1,000-3,000 depending on centering and edges. More played versions may only earn $100-300.

Nomar Garciaparra – Struck his first cards in 1993 Topps. NM-MT rookie cards range $75-150 with up to $300 possible for a true gem.

Jason Giambi – Another rising star who debuted in this set. His rookies value between $35-75 NM-MT.

Eric Chavez – Had one of the shortest rookie cards produced. Chavez rookies are $25-50 NM-MT.

Mariano Rivera – The greatest reliever of all-time’s first issued card. Rivera rookie prices are $18-35 depending on condition.

Charles Johnson – Was an all-star catcher for several seasons. Johnson’s 1993 Topps rookie card value is $10-20 NM-MT.

Parallels
The 1993 Topps set featured several acetate parallels inserted at different rarity rates. The most valuable include:

Grey Acetate parallel – One per hobby box. Cards of greats like Griffey, Thomas, and Maddux consistently sell for $150-300+ graded gem mint.

Clear Acetate parallel – Around 1 per 25 packs. Prices range from $75-150 depending on the player graded gem mint.

Green Acetate parallel – Inserted at around 1 per 100 packs or rarer. Highest end parallels can reach $250+ for megastars like Jeter if earned a gem mint grade.

Inserts
Notable insert sets within 1993 Topps include:

Photo Material – Players captured mid-swing or motion. Inserted approximately 1:10 packs. Stars grade over $25, commons $5-10 nm-mt.

Topps All-Time Fan Favorites – Honoring legends of the past. Inserted at 1:36 packs. Top names like Mays, Mantle, Aaron >$20 nm-mt.

Precious Moments – Babies illustrated wearing team uniforms. 1:72 packs. More desirable names near $15 nm-mt.

1992 Topps All-Stars – Serial numbered parallels of 1992 stars. Numbers hitters >$10, pitchers $5-8 nm-mt.

Opening Day Rosters – Team checklist cards. Usually under $5 each unless a star-studded lineup.

Autographs
Signed cards from 1993 Topps hold high value, especially for star players:

Derek Jeter auto /99 – $3,000+
Ken Griffey Jr. auto /150 – $1,000-1,500
Frank Thomas auto /250 – $500-800
Greg Maddux auto /250 – $300-500
General autos /500 of lesser names – $75-150

Miscellaneous Notes
Keep in mind other cards that can impact 1993 Topps values such as error cards, printing plates, oddball parallels, or serial numbered short prints. Overall condition is critical, so higher graded cards will demand top dollar while played copies are more affordable collector pieces. With time these cards should continue gaining value based on the success of players like Jeter, Griffey, and Bonds whose rookie seasons were captured in this beloved but often overlooked vintage set.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1938 TOPPS

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1938 Topps Baseball Cards Price Guide

The 1938 Topps baseball card set was the very first series of modern gum cards produced by the Topps Chewing Gum Company. These vintage cards featured individual photos of major league players from that season on a gray background. The set contains a total of 75 cards numbered from 1 to 75. While production and distribution of the cards was relatively small compared to later decades, the 1938 Topps set remains highly coveted by collectors today due to its status as the first in the modern era of baseball cards. This comprehensive price guide will provide collectors with valuable information on valuation, grading, and desirability of each card in the landmark 1938 Topps set.

The most coveted and expensive card in the 1938 Topps set is the Mickey Mantle rookie card #67. In pristine near-mint to mint condition (graded NM-MT 8 or higher), Mantle rookie cards can fetch astronomical prices upwards of $2 million or more at auction. Even well-centered examples in excellent condition (EX 5) will still sell for six figures. The Mickey Mantle card is one of the true Holy Grails for any sports card collector and remains the single most valuable baseball card ever produced. Other highly valuable and sought-after cards from the set include the Joe DiMaggio #5 (>$100k NM), Ted Williams #28 (>$50k NM), and Lou Gehrig #47 (>$25k NM).

Condition is absolutely critical when determining the value of any 1938 Topps card. Even minor flaws or imperfections can significantly decrease a card’s worth. The set is quite fragile and examples that grade higher than EX 5 are extremely rare. Most surviving cards grade no higher than fair to good condition (G-VG 3). For common players, well-centered cards in EX 5 can still fetch $500-1000. In VG 3 condition, values will typically range between $100-300 depending on the player featured. For more obscure players, a card in EX 5 condition may only sell for $100-200.

Beyond the star players and rookie cards already mentioned, here are estimated price ranges for some other notable 1938 Topps cards in top-graded condition:

Hank Greenberg #10 – $15,000 NM, $5,000 EX

Mel Ott #11 – $8,000 NM, $3,000 EX

Jimmie Foxx #12 – $7,500 NM, $2,500 EX

Dizzy Dean #13 – $6,000 NM, $2,000 EX

Bill Dickey #14 – $5,000 NM, $1,500 EX

Lefty Gomez #15 – $4,500 NM, $1,250 EX

Joe Medwick #16 – $4,000 NM, $1,000 EX

Gabby Hartnett #17 – $3,500 NM, $900 EX

Ernie Lombardi #18 – $3,000 NM, $800 EX

Charlie Gehringer #19 – $2,500 NM, $700 EX

Some other key factors that can affect 1938 Topps card values include player pose and photo quality, centering, and the condition and completeness of the original gum. Cards with intact gum in EX 5 condition can often sell for a 20-30% premium over otherwise identical cards without gum. Backing/surface issues are also much more problematic for 1938 cards compared to later vintage sets due to the fragile paper stock used. Even minor issues such as creases, edge-wear, or discoloration can significantly downgrade a card.

The 1938 Topps set was truly groundbreaking as the first modern era of baseball cards. While examples in high grade are exceedingly rare today, the cards remain a cornerstone of the hobby for their historical significance. Values are primarily driven by player, condition, and completeness. The Mickey Mantle rookie continues to be the undisputed crown jewel and most valuable card in the set. With such a small original print run and fragile paper, collectors should expect condition sensitivities to remain very high for 1938 Topps well into the future. This price guide provides valuable insights to help collectors properly assess and value their holdings from this landmark set.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 199

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The year was 1999 and the baseball card market was booming. Players from the late 80s and 90s rookie classes were entering their primes and collectors were eager to track the progress of their favorite stars. Upper Deck, Topps, and Fleer were producing high quality sets that captured the attention of both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby. With so many cards being printed and the glut of products on the market, prices fluctuated wildly based on player performance and team success. This baseball cards price guide from 1999 provides estimated values for the most desirable rookie cards and stars from that era.

Ken Griffey Jr. remained the most valuable player in the hobby. His Upper Deck rookie card from 1989 held a price tag of $150-200 in Near Mint-Mint condition. The 1990 Bowman Griffey rookie card and 1991 Upper Deck Griffey rookie card both hovered around $75-100 NM-MT. Mark McGwire’s rookie cards also held strong prices. His 1987 Topps rookie fetched $75-100 while the 1986 Topps Traded and 1987 Fleer Update rookies each brought $50-75. Barry Bonds rookies and early 90s cards remained hot with his 1986 Topps Traded rookie at $50-75 and 1992 Topps Traded at $30-50.

Rookie cards for rising stars like Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, and Sammy Sosa commanded top dollar. Jeter’s 1993 Bowman’s Best rookie sold for $50-75 while his 1993 SP rookie sold for slightly less at $40-60. Nomar Garciaparra’s 1994 Bowman’s Best rookie sold for $30-50 and his 1994 Bowman for $25-40. Sammy Sosa rookies like the 1989 Bowman and 1990 Score each sold in the $20-35 range. Rookies for Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Jeff Bagwell also held value in the $15-30 range.

Veteran star cards were plentiful but certain players maintained strong collector interest. Nolan Ryan’s early 1970s Topps and Donruss rookies sold for $75-125 depending on condition. Ryne Sandberg and Wade Boggs rookie and early career cards sold for $15-30. Ozzie Smith and Cal Ripken Jr. cards from the early 1980s sold for $10-25. Rickey Henderson rookie and star cards from the late 70s/early 80s sold for $10-20. Rookies for Tony Gwynn and Kirby Puckett sold for $8-15.

Rookie cards for breakout stars of the late 90s like Pedro Martinez, Randy Johnson, John Smoltz, and Greg Maddux sold for $5-12. Stars in their primes like Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa had common base cards selling for $1-5. Rookie cards for emerging stars like Nomar Garciaparra, Derek Jeter, and Chipper Jones held values of $3-8. Bench players and role players had most base cards selling under $1.

The baseball card market was flooded with sets in the late 90s which kept prices relatively steady. Certain parallels and inserts created new opportunities. Refractors, jersey cards, autographs, and 1/1 serial numbered cards created a new premium layer of rarity. Popular inserts sets like Topps Finest, Upper Deck SP Authentic, and Bowman’s Best provided alternative investment options beyond traditional base cards. The boom years created a surge of interest that buoyed the entire market and set the stage for unprecedented growth still yet to come.

This 1999 baseball cards price guide showcased the transition period as the stars of the 80s made way for the heroes of the 90s. Players like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Derek Jeter, and Nomar Garciaparra led the way. Rookies and stars from the late 70s/early 80s maintained value while 90s stars held steady prices. The arrival of parallels, autographs, and inserts added new collecting dimensions. The vibrant market showed no signs of slowing as interest in the players and products remained stronger than ever. While prices have surely risen in the decades since, 1999 marked both the continuation of past trends and the beginning of new frontiers for the baseball card collecting world.

OFFICIAL PRICE GUIDE BASEBALL CARDS

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Official baseball card price guides are vital reference tools for collectors looking to value their collections and stay informed about market trends. While online auction sites provide a snapshot of recent sales, price guides take a more comprehensive approach through expert research and analysis.

The oldest and most widely respected baseball card price guide is the Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards published annually since the 1980s by Bowers and Merena. Now in its 10th edition, the Standard Catalog has long been considered the definitive source for identifying, grading, and pricing vintage and modern baseball cards. Expert researchers scour online auctions, shows, and dealer resources year-round to compile average sold values for thousands of individual baseball cards across all decades.

The Standard Catalog takes a scientific approach through its proprietary 1-10 grading scale where a card rated a “1” would be in nearly uncollectible condition down to a “10” which is mint condition or better. This grading system allows collectors to compare “higher grade” examples that could be worth significantly more. The guide also provides background history, key facts and variations to help categorize and understand the value and collectibility factors of each issue.

While the Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards remains the industry standard, Beckett Media emerged as a strong alternative with their monthly Beckett Baseball Card Monthly price guide launched in the 1980s. Beckett takes a similar comprehensive data-driven approach to assign market values but also incorporates a “Price Guide Index” number that multiplies a base raw value by condition-specific multipliers. This simplified pricing model makes Beckett guides very user-friendly for average collectors.

Both the Standard Catalog and Beckett guides expanded in the 1990s to meet growing collector demand and now encompass all major sports including basketball and football cards as well. As the hobby expanded online, digital versions became available. In the 2010s, features like searchable databases on laptop and mobile devices offered even more utility for researchers. While print versions remain popular collector items, digital is now the standard format which facilitates regular price updates.

Beyond the Big Two of Standard Catalog and Beckett, niche price guides emerged to focus on specialized areas. The T206 Collector’s Price Guide researched values of the ultra-coveted tobacco card set from 1911-1913 known as the “Mona Lisa of baseball cards”. Other guides zeroed in on 1960s, 1970s and 1980s star issues or budget sets popular during childhood of many collectors like Topps and Fleer. Websites like PSA SMR Price Guide and 130 Point compiled data specifically on professionally graded cards which can increase values exponentially depending on holder and grade.

As with any collectible market, condition remains the ultimate factor when determining a baseball card’s worth. While mint specimens frequently exceed guide values, well-loved cards showing play wear may realize only a fraction. Competing online auctions between avid bidders are often needed to set true market prices, especially for rarer high-dollar card issues. Price guides remain the best starting point for newcomers, dealers, and seasoned collectors to understand estimated values, spot bargains and follow investment trends across the ever-evolving baseball card landscape.

Experts agree the future remains bright for vintage sports card guides as values continue climbing and new collectors discover the nostalgia and investment potential of pieces of baseball history. By bringing transparency and data analysis to a sprawling marketplace, publications like Standard Catalog and Beckett will maintain their relevance.