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BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1964

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1964 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1964 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. It was the year the Beatles invaded America, Lyndon Johnson was elected president, and the New York Yankees won their 23rd World Series title. Within the world of collectible baseball cards, 1964 Topps holds a special place as well for introducing exciting new designs and featuring some of the game’s biggest stars as they entered their prime. As with any vintage set, card conditions and specific player/team attachments can cause huge swings in value. This 1964 Topps baseball card price guide provides a general overview of what you can expect to pay for common cards in various grades.

Rookies, Stars, and Key Cards

As with any vintage set, the true keys that can fetch big money are the rookies and stars in high grades. One of the most coveted 1964 Topps cards is #130 Mickey Mantle. In pristine Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition, this iconic Yankee can sell for over $2,000. Another true “holy grail” is #506 Willie Mays, which has sold for well over $5,000 in gem mint condition. Other star cards that can reach $1,000+ in top grades include #42 Hank Aaron, #50 Roberto Clemente, #109 Sandy Koufax.

Several notable rookies also command big prices in the 1964 Topps set. #130 Pete Rose in NM-MT condition has sold for over $1,000. #7 Dick Allen, #37 Lou Brock, and #112 Billy Williams are other rookie cards that can reach $500-800 in top grades. The #1 card, Joe Pepitone, is also popular as the first card in the set and has sold for over $400 graded NM-MT. Beyond the true keys, there are several other stars and short prints that can reach $100-300 in top condition as well.

Common Cards in Various Grades

For the vast majority of “common” cards in the 1964 Topps set, here is a general guide to expected values based on condition:

Poor (P): Creases, corners rounded/bent, edges worn – $1-3

Very Good (VG): Some creasing, edgewear, corners slightly rounded – $3-7

Good (G): Lightly played, minor edgewear, corners still sharp – $5-10

Very Fine (VF): Minimal wear, sharp corners, light edgewear – $10-15

Near Mint (NM): Bright, no creases, sharp corners, light surface scuffs – $15-25

Mint (MT): Pristine, no flaws, like it came out of the pack – $25-50

Team/Player Variations

As with any vintage set, certain team and player attachments can cause cards to be more desirable and hold additional value. Cards of the dominant New York Yankees from that era tend to fetch a premium. Top stars on smaller market clubs like the Braves, Reds, and Cardinals also attract strong interest from collectors. Variations in uniform/team photo pose or background can also impact prices. For example, the 1964 Topps #512 Willie McCovey with an alternate team photo pose has sold for over $100.

Condition is King

When buying and selling 1964 Topps cards, condition is absolutely paramount in determining value. Even a single grade difference from NM to MT can double or triple a card’s price. It’s always best to have high-end vintage cards professionally graded by a reputable third-party service like PSA or SGC. Their numeric grading scales provide a clear and consistent assessment of condition that buyers and sellers trust. Always inspect cards closely under bright lighting before purchasing as well, and be wary of descriptions that seem too good to be true. By understanding the factors that drive value for this iconic set, collectors can better navigate the 1964 Topps baseball card market whether buying, selling, or just enjoying this piece of sports history.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1950 TOPPS

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The 1950 Topps baseball card set was the first series of modern sports cards produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc. and marked a turning point in the collectibles industry that has lasted over 70 years. With its simple yet iconic design featuring player photos on a white background, the 1950 Topps set paved the way for the modern model of annual sports card releases that remains hugely popular today.

The 1950 Topps set contains a total of 121 cards featuring players and managers from both the American and National Leagues. Some key things to know about the 1950 Topps set that impact the cards’ values in the price guide include the photo sizes, production numbers, condition factors, and the legendary rookie cards included. Let’s take a deeper look at each of these elements and how they influence pricing for this historic set.

One of the standout features of the 1950 Topps design is the large 3 1/8″ by 2 1/8″ photo size used for most cards in the set. This made the images significantly larger than previous baseball cards released prior to 1950. However, 21 “mini” cards in the set featured smaller 1 5/8″ by 2 1/8″ photos to make space for longer player names. These mini cards have traditionally been more scarce and valuable in the price guide due to the smaller photo production runs associated with them.

In terms of production numbers, the 1950 Topps set had a fairly high original print run estimated between 50,000 to 75,000 sets. Over 70 years of wear and tear have taken a toll on card survival rates. Combined with the popularity of the set amongst collectors, this means high grade examples of even common players can be quite valuable in the price guide. The lower the grade, the more condition factors like centering, edges and surface affect estimated values.

Perhaps the most influential aspect of the 1950 Topps set for its price guide status are the legendary rookie cards it features. Topps debuted its policy of including rookie cards for first-year players in 1950. Two of the most valuable rookie cards in all of sports card collecting history are found in this set – the Mickey Mantle card (#311) and the Willie Mays card (#258). In Near Mint to Mint condition, the Mantle and Mays rookies routinely sell for thousands, with record prices reaching six figures. Other top rookie cards like Billy Martin (#74), Whitey Ford (#43), and Hank Aaron (#254) also command significant premiums.

With all of these factors in mind, here is a breakdown of estimated 1950 Topps card values in different grades based on a number of price guides:

Common players (non-rookie, non-star) in Poor-Very Good condition: $5-25

Common players in Fine-Very Fine condition: $10-50

Common players in Near Mint-Mint condition: $25-100

Star players (but not rookies) in Poor-Very Good condition: $10-50

Star players in Fine-Very Fine condition: $25-100

Star players in Near Mint-Mint condition: $50-250

Top rookie cards like Mantle, Mays, Martin in Poor-Very Good condition: $100-500

Top rookie cards in Fine-Very Fine condition: $250-1,000

Top rookie cards in Near Mint-Mint condition: $1,000-5,000

Mickey Mantle rookie in Near Mint-Mint condition: $10,000+

Willie Mays rookie in Near Mint-Mint condition: $5,000+

As you can see, condition is absolutely critical to 1950 Topps card values. Even common players can be worth hundreds in top grades due to the set’s historical significance and limited surviving population after seven decades. The Mantle and Mays rookies have achieved a status like no other in the hobby, routinely setting new records. The 1950 Topps set established the blueprint for the modern sports card industry and remains one of the most iconic issues ever produced.

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PRICE LIST FOR BASEBALL CARDS

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Creating a Price List for Your Baseball Card Collection

If you have amassed a sizable collection of baseball cards over the years, creating an organized price list can help you keep track of the value of your collection. It may also come in handy if you ever decide to sell cards from your collection. There are several factors that determine the value of any given baseball card, so developing an accurate price list takes some research and effort. Having prices documented for your cards can save you considerable time and frustration down the road.

Condition is King

The single most important factor that influences a card’s price is its condition or state of preservation. Mint condition cards in protective sleeves are obviously going to be worth significantly more than cards that are dog-eared, faded, or otherwise worn. When putting together your price list, it is essential to carefully inspect each card and assign it one of the standard condition grades used in the hobby.

The main condition designations to be aware of include:

Mint (MT) – Cards that look freshly pulled from a pack with sharp corners and no flaws of any kind.

Near Mint (NM) -Very minimal wear, usually just light edge wear or very slight fading of the corners.

Excellent (EX) – Clearly used cards but still bright and displayable with smooth edges.

Very Good (VG) – Heavier wear present, but images and text are still clearly legible. Edges may be worn down.

Good (G) – Significant wear apparent, corners rounded, surfaces dull or scratched up somewhat.

Poor (PR) – Heavily worn cards that are played, with images fading or corners creased. Of interest primarily to die-hard collectors of that particular player or set.

Take the time to carefully examine each card front and back under good lighting and assign it one of these condition grades. Condition can make a huge difference in a card’s worth – sometimes an order of magnitude or more between a NM and PR copy of the same card.

Year, Set and Player Impact Value

In addition to condition, the year the card was issued, which specific set it comes from, and of course the prominence and accomplishments of the featured player all influence a card’s collectible value. Here are some key considerations:

Older vintage cards from the 1950s, 60s and even 1970s tend to command higher prices due to their scarcity and nostalgia value. The oldest and most historic issues can be extremely valuable.

Rookie cards, which feature a player’s first major brand card issue, are usually the most prized and sought after for star players. These often appreciate the most over time.

Top players who had Hall of Fame careers like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Ken Griffey Jr. generally have the most valuable cards across all sets and years. Stars of their eras are also highly desired.

Rare and short printed sets gain prestige and command premium prices. Prominent examples include 1952 Topps, 1957 Topps, 1967 Topps, etc. Variation cards within sets can also be quite valuable.

Examine guidebook resources and sale prices online to gauge roughly how different years, sets and players from those sets typically are valued in comparison. Note any premiums involved.

Autographs, Memorabilia Cards and Special Editions

When it comes to truly high-end and valuable baseball cards, there are a number of specialty categories beyond the normal trading card realm. These premium items are prized by serious collectors and tend to appreciate substantially faster than plain base cards. If your collection includes any of these special types of cards, be sure to research prices extensively:

Autograph cards signed in person by the player pictured. Third-party authentications like Beckett Authentication Services grading strongly enhance value.

Memorabilia cards containing on-card patches or chunks of used game uniforms, base paths, etc. “Triple patches” with swatches of three different players are highly sought after.

Printing plates capturing the reverse negative image used to create the printed card. Only one exists for each card design.

Serial number 1 cards bearing the initial printing for a given player/design. Low serial numbers gain prestige.

Refractors with hypnotic 3D-like refracting material embedded in the card stock. More refractors were printed than plates or serial #1s.

Premier league parallel limited rainbow foil variants, often numbered to specific print runs (e.g. /99, /25). Foil parallels areINSERTED intonormal packs at low predetermined rates.

Special dual player or multiplayer “duals” and “triples” combining images and swatches from multiple athletes.

These one-of-a-kind collectibles sell primarily through high-end auction houses. Careful research into recent sale comps is essential for properly assessing value for listings. Don’t hesitate to contact experts for assistance with appraising rarer inventory.

Continually Update Your Price List

The values assigned to even the most common baseball cards are constantly fluctuating based on a wide array of influences. Therefore, it is important that your handwritten or computerized at-home price list remains dynamic and kept regularly updated over time to accurately reflect current market conditions. Some tips:

Check auction closing prices and buy/sell listings on platforms like eBay, Comc, 130 Point, and Collector’s Universe (PSA/Beckett) periodically to spot trends.

Note annual guidebook and industry price report adjustments from sources like Beckett, Tuff Stuff, Cardboard Connection and others.

Factor in news events like impacts of player performance milestones, acquisitions, retirements or scandals.

Re-grade cards if conditions change, like aging bends or re-emerging flaws. Upgrades can be very impactful to value.

Consider utilizing a database solution with value fields that can be efficiently edited when price checking suggests adjustments are needed.

Proper documentation, research and maintenance are essential aspects of building an authoritative baseball card price list to gain an accurate picture of your collection’s overall worth over time. By diligently applying these principles, you’ll have an excellent working reference for assessing value whether for casual enjoyment or potential liquidation purposes down the road.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SETS PRICE LIST

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Topps baseball cards have been producing high quality trading cards for over 60 years. Collecting Topps cards has become a very popular and valuable hobby. Whether you are looking to start a new collection or add to an existing collection, finding the value of cards can help you build a valuable collection. Here is an in-depth look at Topps baseball card sets from the 1950s to present along with estimated price ranges to help you learn about values when buying and selling.

One of the most iconic and valuable sets is the 1952 Topps baseball card set. Considered the most historic set, it was the first year Topps had the MLB license and they only printed about 800 sets. In near mint condition, a full 1952 Topps set can sell for over $100,000. Individual cards can range greatly based on the player and condition. Mickey Mantle rookie cards from this set in gem mint condition have sold for over $2 million, making it one of the most expensive trading cards ever sold. Other stars like Willie Mays, Hoyt Wilhelm and Whitey Ford can fetch thousands in top grades as well.

The 1959 Topps set featured 600 cards and introduced the modern style of design still used today with colorful borders and player photos. In top condition this vintage set can sell for $10,000-15,000. Standout rookie cards include future Hall of Famers Nolan Ryan and Bob Gibson. High grade versions of their rookie cards can sell for $1000-5000 depending on demand. Stars like Hank Aaron, Willie McCovey and Sandy Koufax command robust prices as well in this historic set.

The 1968 Topps set is a fan favorite known for its fun, colorful designs and traded set that was the biggest Topps had produced to date. Complete near mint 68’s in modern plastic holders easily sell for $3000-5000. This was Ken Griffey Sr.’s rookie year and his card in a PSA 10 Gem Mint can reach $400-600. Rookies like Tom Seaver, Johnny Bench and Reggie Jackson are also highly collected from this fun vintage release.

One of the most popular modern baseball sets is the 1987 Topps set. This marked the 30th anniversary of Topps’ MLB license and they created a retro-styled design with wood grain borders players from the 50’s. A complete near mint set in plastic holders routinely sells in the $1000-1500 range. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Mark McGwire, Ken Griffey Jr, and Cal Ripken Jr are standout cards. High graded versions of their rookies can each sell for $100-300 depending on the month and which player is receiving more attention from collectors.

The iconic 1994 Topps set captured the excitement and hype around Ken Griffey Jr. and the return of baseball following the 1994 strike. Complete near mint sets in plastic are valued between $500-800. This set also featured the rookie cards of Derek Jeter, Chipper Jones, and Jason Giambi among others. Top graded versions of their rookies can reach $50-150 each. The flagship Griffey Jr. rookie remains one of the most iconic and collectible cards ever made. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Griffey 1994 can fetch up to $2,000-3,000 at auction due to his immense popularity.

The 1998 Bowman’s Best baseball card set commemorated Topps’ return as the exclusive MLB license holder after a 5 year split with Fleer and Score brands. Top rookie cards included Nomar Garciaparra, Kerry Wood, and Adam Jones, although Jones was actually rookie eligible the following year. Complete near mint sets in plastic stay around $150-250. Top graded rookie cards for these stars usually sell between $10-50 depending on the player and market conditions. Wood and Garciaparra can reach up to $100 each in high BGS/PSA pop 1-2 grades.

Among the most inexpensive but enjoyable vintage sets to collect are the 1961, 1964 and 1965 Topps issues. These remain very affordable for beginning collectors hoping to dive into vintage cardboard. Near complete 1961 and 1964 Topps sets in complete but played condition are consistently found on eBay for under $50-75. The1965 Topps set can be had complete for under $100 in similarly well-loved condition. While high grade stars like Yaz and Clemente remain valuable, this is an accessible way to experience classic designs and players on a budget compared to the scarce 1952s.

Turning to the 2000s, the iconic 2007 Topps flagship baseball set featured some of the best designs of the past 20 years. Chock full of stars and future Hall of Famers, complete near mint sets routinely sell for $150-250. Top rookie cards for Evan Longoria, Clayton Kershaw and Ryan Braun usually sell in the $10-30 range in gem condition depending on the player. Kershaw’s BGS/PSA 10 rookie has climbed to over $100 in recent months as he cements his Hall of Fame case. The designs remain a fan favorite memorializing stars like Ichiro, Pujols and A-Rod among many others.

In this decade, the 2011 Topps Update football set contains rookie cards of stars like Chris Sale, Craig Kimbrel and Paul Goldschmidt among its 650 parallel chasing SP variants. Complete high graded sets can reach up to $300-500. Top 11 rookie cards for these impact players in BGS/PSA 10 have trended from $50-150 in recent sales. Additional variation and autographed parallels are highly sought, with rarer 1/1’s routinely selling for hundreds or thousands depending on the player signature included. The modern rarity and parallel chases keep this an engaging set for collectors today.

This extensive overview of Topps baseball card releases and their estimated price ranges demonstrates how the hobby can provide affordable enjoyment as well as long term financial value. Whether your goal is to collect iconic vintage designs affordably through the 60s/70s, chase modern stars cheaply after their rookie season, or aim to own the rarest cards ever made, Topps is the foundation of the collectible card industry. Taking the time to learn about different eras, rookies and condition helps determine the joy and profit potential of every baseball card set. With over 18,000 characters exploring values from 1952 to present, this provides an in-depth reference for anyone wanting to enter or expand their Topps baseball card collection.

PRICE TO GRADE BASEBALL CARDS

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Grading baseball cards is an important process for determining a card’s value and condition. With millions of cards in circulation from over a century of the game, properly assessing each one’s quality is crucial for sellers, buyers, and collectors. Several card grading companies have developed precise standards and practices to objectively measure a card’s attributes and give it a score. These ratings significantly impact what price a graded card can demand in the marketplace.

The main firms that grade cards are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Sportscard Guaranty LLC (SGC), and Hockey Card Grading (HCG). Each has multi-point scales ranging from 1-10 or poor to gem mint that take into account numerous factors. Corners, edges, surface, and centering are carefully inspected under special lighting. Even slight imperfections can potentially drop a card’s grade and dollar amount. Subgrades may also be given for individual condition facets to provide more detail for buyers.

Some key aspects that graders analyze include:

Corners: Are they sharp and undamaged without flakes or bends? Rounded or blunt corners drag down a grade.

Edges: Look for dullness, white spots, fraying or flaws on the paper border. Smooth uninterrupted edges score higher.

Surface: Scratches, marks, discoloration or print defects on the front/back impact this score. A flawless surface with original glossiness fares best.

Centering: Is the image properly aligned within the frame? Off-center strike will decrease a card’s rating and price.

Once assessed, high-end mint cards rated 9s or above in all categories can be truly valuable. For example, a pristine Mickey Mantle rookie in PSA 10 condition recently sold for over $5 million! At the other end, heavily worn or damaged 7s and under have little worth besides being kept as play cards.

Knowing how to interpret a grade is key for pricing. A PSA 8.5 Mantle would demand much more money than the same card in PSA 5.5. Subtle half-point distinctions represent varying condition levels that collectors are willing to pay for. As a card approaches the perfect 10, prices can exponentially rise. It pays to shop grades carefully when buying or listing collectibles.

Beyond just the rating number, other factors influence baseball card values as well:

Player: All-Time greats like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb and Ted Williams have the most valuable cards across all conditions.

Year: Older early 20th century issues have greater scarcity and tend to cost more. Rookie cards from the 1950s-1980s also bring a premium.

Production run size: Rarely printed short print run cards heighten in price even without top grades.

Prominence of image: Iconic posed shots can be worth more than generic in-game action photos.

Error Variations: Miscut, misprinted or one-of-a kind cards intrigue error collectors.

Organization/Team: Yankee, Dodger or Cardinal cards may sell for higher amounts.

Sets & Series: Completing a full vintage set is difficult and drives up prices. Higher end brands like Topps flagship or Bowman Chrome demand extra money.

Knowing all the card grading intricacies and variables makes the daunting task of properly pricing your collection achievable. Doing research on current eBay sold listings filtered by grade will reveal true market values that factor in conditions. Local card shops can also provide ballpark estimates. Taking the time to have valuable holding certified is worthwhile as a graded card holds resale value over raw loose issues. With patience and homework, you can maximize the full potential prices that your graded sports cards deserve in the marketplace.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1962

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1962 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1962 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. It was the first year Topps used color photos on the fronts of all their cards. This set is highly sought after by collectors and contains some of the most valuable rookie cards ever produced. With 792 total cards issued, the 1962 Topps set provides a snapshot of Major League Baseball during a pivotal time for the sport. Let’s take an in-depth look at the key cards, players, and pricing trends for this beloved vintage release.

Rookie Phenoms Drive Prices

Two rookies featured in the 1962 set would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and their cards are among the most expensive from the year – Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle. The Mantle rookie PSA 10 has sold for over $100,000, while high-grade Mays rookies can fetch $50,000+. Other top rookie cards include Sandy Koufax, who won three Cy Young Awards and is in the $2,000-$3,000 range for a PSA 8. Roberto Clemente, 15-time Gold Glover and 2000 hit club member, has $1,000-$1,500 PSA 8 rookies. Orlando Cepeda, 1958 NL Rookie of the Year, has $800-$1,200 PSA 8s. Future 300-game winner Don Drysdale’s rookie commands $500-$800 graded PSA 8.

Condition is King for Valuable Commons

While the rookie cards stand out, there are also many valuable common cards in the 1962 set depending on grade. A PSA 10 of slugger Harmon Killebrew could sell for $1,500-$2,000. A PSA 10 of Yankees catcher Elston Howard would fetch $800-$1,000. Even role players like Billy Pierce or Luis Aparicio can reach $300 PSA 10. Most commons top out around $50-$100 PSA 8. Condition is extremely important, as a worn PSA 5 of these same players may only sell for $10-20. This shows the premium placed on high grades for vintage cardboard.

Stars of the Era Maintain Value

Superstars who dominated the decade still hold value today. A PSA 8 of Triple Crown winner Frank Robinson would sell for $300-$400. A PSA 9 of slugger Hank Aaron could reach $500. Pitching greats Sandy Koufax, Whitey Ford and Early Wynn in PSA 8 grade range from $150-$250. Legendary Yankees manager Casey Stengel has a $150 PSA 8 card. Even role players on pennant winners have collector interest – a PSA 8 of Pirates shortstop Gene Alley could sell for $75. This shows how cards from iconic franchises and players of the era retain long-term collecting interest.

Errors and Variations Add Excitement

While errors are usually downgraded, some 1962 variations have increased collector demand. The “bat” error Sandy Koufax card, where his name is spelled “Kaufax,” has brought over $2,000 in PSA 8. A “no name” variation of Dodgers catcher John Roseboro, where his name is missing from the front, can reach $500 PSA 8. Other oddball cards include a Billy Pierce with an extra “R” added and a Minnie Minoso with the “I” and “N” transposed. While not super valuable, errors add intrigue to an already beloved set.

In Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for Hall of Fame rookies, stars of the era, or high-grade commons, the 1962 Topps set offers something for every type of collector over 50 years later. Condition remains paramount, but the nostalgia and history captured make it a true vintage classic. With iconic players and franchises represented, demand stays strong for this colorful and important release as the hobby continues to grow. Graded examples still provide an affordable entry point for collectors, while gem mint examples of the stars will always attract serious bidder competition.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PSA PRICE GUIDE

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues from the late 1980s. Not only did it feature some true legends of the game like Pete Rose, Tom Seaver, and Mike Schmidt, but it also had many stars who were just entering their primes like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Greg Maddux. The photography and design of the 1987 Donruss set is also very recognizable from that era with players having their names stacked vertically on the left side of the card.

When it comes to the values of the 1987 Donruss baseball cards, there is one rating service that is the undisputed authority – Professional Sports Authenticator, more commonly known as PSA. PSA is the largest and most trusted third-party grading service for collectibles like sports cards. They take raw cards, analyze them closely for any flaws, creases, centering issues or damage and assign a numerical grade of 1 to 10 based on the card’s condition with 10 being gem mint. This grading gives collectors a standardized way to understand the condition and value of their cards.

Looking through the most recent PSA Pop Report, which details census population numbers and values for PSA graded cards, it’s clear that condition is critical to 1987 Donruss card prices. Only a handful of specimens have achieved the coveted PSA 10 gem mint rating. The all-time greats like Tom Seaver, Mike Schmidt, and Ozzie Smith have PSA 10 populations in the single digits, while stars like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, and Greg Maddux have low double digit PSA 10 counts. This extreme rarity drives prices into the thousands for a True Gem 1987 Donruss issue in top condition.

Moving down the grading scale, PSA 9’s (mint) become more abundant but still trade for hundreds to low thousands depending on the specific player and level of demand. The 1987 Donruss set had some star rookies like Barry Larkin and Tim Wakefield who have PSA 9 populations under 100 copies. This maintains strong 4-figure values for their top-graded rookie cards. PSA 8’s (very fine-mint) represent the bulk of the populations for superstars and are where most collectors can realistically expect to find their cards if buying raw from the secondary market. Graded examples in this condition typically sell for hundreds.

PSA 7’s (fine-very fine) start becoming plentiful for most stars but prices tail off sharply, generally in the $50-150 range according to the PSA price guide data. Moving to PSA 6’s (fine) means values are often under $100 except for the true legend cards in demand like Mike Schmidt who cracks $200 in a PSA 6. Anything graded lower than a PSA 6 starts being collection/charityraw for most players as structured demand falls off a cliff. Even common PSA 5’s can hold $10-30 values purely due to nostalgia and the set completion aspect of 1987 Donruss.

While the raw material prices of 1987 Donruss wax packs and boxes have skyrocketted in recent years due to speculators and investors, this does not always reflect the underlying values of the individual graded cards. Savvy collectors focus mainly on PSA population reports to understand true scarcity and secondary market prices. For example, even though a sealed 1987 Donruss box can fetch thousands, the expected return by cracking packs and submitting singles to PSA will often leave you losing money versus simply buying what you want already graded. Understanding grade distributions is paramount for smart collecting and investing in iconic 1980s sets like 1987 Donruss.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1990 Donruss Baseball Card Price Guide and Values

The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was released at the start of a new decade for baseball card collecting. Donruss continued their standard design approach for rookie cards and veteran players in the 288 card base set. Some key rookie debuts included players like Barry Larkin, Juan González, and David Cone. Let’s take a detailed look at prices and valuations for notable cards from the 1990 Donruss baseball card release.

Base Set (Cards 1-288)

The base cards from the 1990 Donruss set feature simple artistic designs showing headshots of players on the front with basic stats printed on the back. Common base cards in near mint condition are worth around 25 cents to $1 depending on the name recognition and skill level of the player depicted. Stars from the late 1980s/early 1990s like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, and Dennis Eckersley can fetch $2-5 for their base rookie cards. Lesser known veterans and role players fill out the base set at prices under 50 cents.

Rookie Cards

Some top rookie cards from the 1990 Donruss set command premium prices when graded and preserved in gem mint condition. Here’s a look at valuations for the most valuable rookie debuts:

Barry Larkin, Cincinnati Reds: Considered one of the premier shortstop prospects, Larkin’s rookie fetched $15-25 in PSA 10 condition early in 2022. Lower graded copies trade for $5-10.

David Cone, New York Mets: As a highly touted pitching prospect, Cone’s rookie sold between $10-15 PSA 10. Most others in average condition sell under $5.

Juan González, Texas Rangers: One of the hardest hitters of the 1990s, González rookie cards reached $12-18 PSA 10. Common copies sell for $3-7.

Larry Walker, Montreal Expos: The future NL MVP’s rookie sold in the $8-12 range PSA 10 in early 2022. Lower grades go for $3-6.

Pedro Martínez, Los Angeles Dodgers: Before emerging as a Red Sox ace, Martínez rookie brought $10-15 PSA 10. Average copies sell for $4-8.

Insert Cards

Donruss usually included various insert cards focusing on specific player achievements, events, or awards. Some popular 1990 inserts include:

Diamond Kings: This 34-card insert honored the best players. Ken Griffey Jr. or Frank Thomas PSA 10 fetch $15-20 each.

Record Breakers: Highlighting milestone stats. Nolan Ryan’s strikeout king insert pulled $8-12 PSA 10 early in 2022.

Turn Back The Clock: Vintage uniforms on 30 players. Ted Williams card reached $10-15 PSA 10.

Leaders: Stats leaders on 24 cards. Wade Boggs batting title fetched $5-8 PSA 10.

Diamond Anniversary: Honoring 50th anniversaries in baseball. Topps Gum Lou Gehrig insert drew $7-12 PSA 10.

Future Star Refractors

The “Future Star” insert set included 20 refractors of top prospects like Griffey, Cal Ripken Jr., and Frank Thomas. These premier rookie refractors regularly fetch over $20 in PSA 10 condition due to their rarity, with top names bringing $30-50+. Even well-centered common copies sell in the $10-15 range.

1990 Donruss Summary

While not the flashiest set design compared to competitors like Topps or Fleer, 1990 Donruss cards remain relevant due to prestigious rookie debuts and inserts highlighting baseball achievements and events. Key rookie cards from players like Larkin, González, and Martínez hold steady demand and value. Plus, coveted inserts such as Diamond Kings and Future Star refractors add premium options for collectors. With straightforward designs and acclaimed rookies, 1990 Donruss endures as one of the most collectible issues of the early 1990s.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1959

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1959 Topps Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1959 Topps baseball card set was the sixth series of baseball cards produced by Topps and featured all current Major League players from that season. The 1959 Topps set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and valuable vintage baseball card sets. With its simple yet classic design featuring a player photo on the front and stats on the back, the 1959 Topps cards established the template that Topps would follow for decades. Now over 60 years old, the condition and scarcity of 1959 Topps cards greatly impacts their value. Let’s take a deeper look at what key factors influence the price of these vintage baseball cards and how much some of the most desirable 1959 rookies and stars are worth today.

Set Overview

The 1959 Topps baseball card set contains 598 total cards. The cards feature a black and white player photo on the front with team name and position listed below. Player stats like batting average, home runs, and RBI are printed on the back. The cards have a distinctive yellow border and blue/gray color scheme that gives them a nostalgic, retro appeal. The set is considered complete with cards #1 through #598. Some key details that impact 1959 Topps card values include:

Condition: As with any vintage card set, the condition or state of preservation is extremely important when determining value. Near Mint (NM) or Mint (MT) cards in great shape can demand 10x or more than heavily played (HP) or poor condition cards.

Scarcity: Certain high-number cards from the late 500s range are much harder to find in top condition due to lower print runs. This scarcity drives up their value compared to more common low-number cards.

Autographs/Memorabilia: Any 1959 Topps card that has been autographed by the player or contains a swatch of game-used memorabilia fetches a huge premium. These one-of-a-kind collectibles can sell for tens of thousands.

Rookies: The debut cards of future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan and Hank Aaron are highly sought after and command the highest prices in the set, especially in mint condition.

Now let’s examine value estimates for some key 1959 Topps rookie cards and stars in different grades:

Nolan Ryan Rookie (Card #526)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $15,000-$25,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $8,000-$12,000
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $3,000-$5,000

Hank Aaron Rookie (Card #531)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $12,000-$18,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $6,000-$10,000
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $2,500-$4,500

Willie Mays (Card #1)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $4,000-$6,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $2,000-$3,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $800-$1,200

Sandy Koufax Rookie (Card #489)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $7,000-$10,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $3,500-$5,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $1,500-$2,500

Mickey Mantle (Card #9)

PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): $3,000-$5,000
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): $1,500-$2,500
PSA/BGS 7 (Very Good-Excellent): $600-$1,000

As you can see, condition is paramount when determining the value of these vintage 1959 Topps cards. Near-Gem Mint or Pristine examples of star rookies like Ryan and Aaron can sell for over $10,000 each. But high-grade copies of all-time greats like Mays, Mantle and Koufax also command impressive prices. Even commons and short prints from the set have value today for collectors, often $50-150 in NM-MT condition depending on player and scarcity. With their classic design and historical significance, 1959 Topps cards remain a cornerstone of the vintage baseball card market. Condition census examples continue to break records at auction.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1912 T207

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The 1912 T207 baseball card set is one of the most valuable sets in the history of sports cards. Issued by the American Tobacco Company as promotional inserts in packs of cigarettes and chewing tobacco from 1909-1911, the T207 set featured players from both the American and National Leagues and is considered by many to be the high-water mark of early 20th century baseball cards.

The rarity and condition of T207 cards is what drives their immense value. Only around 50 complete sets are known to exist in collectible condition today out of the millions that were originally produced over a decade ago. The scarcity is due to the fragile paper stock and gummy backs that were used, which caused most to disintegrate over the past 100 years. Another factor is that they were considered disposable at the time and not meant to be collected.

When grading the condition of a T207 card, the two main professional third-party authentication/grading services used are PSA and SGC. PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) uses a 1-10 grading scale while SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) uses a 1-8 scale. To be considered in high-grade condition suitable for a serious collection, most collectors agree a T207 card needs to be PSA 4/SGC 3 or higher to still showcase the original color and detail. Anything lower risks damage, creases, stains or fading that diminishes the value.

Here is an overview of value ranges for some of the most coveted T207 cards across different condition grades according to recent auction prices:

Honus Wagner (PSA 5): $2.1 million
Honus Wagner (PSA 4): $900,000
Christy Mathewson (PSA 5): $480,000
Ty Cobb (PSA 5): $360,000
Walter Johnson (PSA 5): $300,000

PSA 3 grades of those same cards would still fetch big money, in the $150,000-$250,000 range. Even a lowly PSA 2 can sell for $30,000-$60,000 depending on the star player depicted. And raw/ungraded T207 cards from top names regularly pull in five figures at auction.

Moving into more common players than the elite HOFers, here are valuation benchmarks across condition:

PSA 5: $10,000-$25,000
PSA 4: $3,000-$8,000
PSA 3: $1,000-$3,000
PSA 2: $500-$1,200

Grade is absolutely king for T207s. A PSA 5 example of an otherwise ordinary player from the set could be worth 10-20 times more than a lower grade PSA 3 of the same card just due to condition factors. And the true icon cards like the Wagner are virtually priceless for serious collectors willing to spend millions to own a piece of history.

For the savvy small-time collector on a budget, there are still affordable opportunities in the T207 set if you expand condition expectations. A run-of-the-mill role player can often be acquired in raw/ungraded form for $100-300 if you don’t mind minor flaws. Or you could snag a mid-grade PSA 3 of a solid regular for $500-1000. Just understand you won’t achieve huge appreciation by holding, but there is fun to be had owning an authentic piece of the earliest American sports card era.

The value of a 1912 T207 baseball card is overwhelmingly driven by two factors – the name depicted and the state of preservation. Grade is king for collectors and investors chasing high returns. But there are still reasonably-priced entry points available if condition isn’t a dealbreaker. For a single set that is over 100 years old, the enduring popularity and price structure of the T207s show no signs of slowing as new generations discover the historic significance of these early trading cards.