Tag Archives: robinson

HOW MUCH ARE JACKIE ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

Leave a reply

Jackie Robinson was the first African American to break the color barrier in Major League Baseball when he started playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. As the player who helped integrate MLB, Robinson is widely considered one of the most important figures in baseball history. Not surprisingly, his rookie cards and other early baseball cards featuring Robinson are among the most valuable in the sport.

The most valuable and iconic Jackie Robinson card is generally considered to be his 1956 Topps card. This is Robinson’s last card issued before his retirement from baseball in 1956. In near-mint condition, examples of his 1956 Topps card have sold at auction for over $500,000 in recent years, making it one of the highest valued post-war baseball cards in existence. Even well-worn copies in poorer condition can still fetch tens of thousands of dollars due to the card’s legendary status.

Robinson’s rookie baseball cards from 1947 are also extremely valuable, though typically not as much as the 1956 issue. His 1947 Bowman Gum card is often cited as the second most valuable baseball card after the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle. Pristine, gem mint condition examples have sold for over $400,000. More moderately played copies in around excellent-mint condition have still sold for six figure sums. The 1947 Leaf card depicting Robinson is also highly valuable, with top grades potentially worth $200,000 or more.

In the late 1940s and 1950s, Robinson appeared in several other notable early issues besides his debut cards. His 1948/1949 Topps cards are significant as some of the earliest Topps issues. High grade examples can reach $50,000-$100,000 depending on condition factors. Robinson also had cards in the 1949/1950/1951 Red Man tobacco sets that are valued around $15,000-$30,000 for choice specimens. His 1952/1953/1954 Topps cards remain collectible as well at $3,000-$10,000 each.

Beyond Robinson’s iconic rookie and final career cards, there are a few other subsets that increase the value of some copies. Any of his early cards depicting him as a Brooklyn Dodger hold premium value since he broke the color barrier with that franchise. Examples that are graded higher by professional card grading services like PSA or BGS are exponentially more valuable than lower graded copies. autographs or on-card signatures from Robinson dramatically increase the worth, with autographed cards reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars or more depending on condition and significance. Variations of the cards with printing errors or anomalies are also highly sought after by collectors.

It’s also notable that general hobby demand and price increases have substantially raised values for vintage Robinson cards in recent decades, similar to stars like Mantle, Mays, and Aaron. As the earliest African American major leaguer whose career helped integrate the sport, Robinson remains one of the most revered iconic players in history. This legend status ensures continuing strong collector demand and ascending prices for any artifacts tied to his playing days like original baseball cards. With only small production runs issued over 70 years ago, high quality examples of any card featuring Robinson as a Dodger are considered priceless rarities worth five or even six figures in today’s thriving vintage sports card market.

While low-quality or common Robinson cards can still be obtained for hundreds to a few thousand dollars, choice specimens of his rookie cards or other significant early issues have proven their ability to command six figure prices or higher at public auction. As one of the true pioneers who helped demolish racial barriers in American professional sports, Robinson’s legacy ensures any relics tied to his groundbreaking MLB career like original baseball cards remain among the most prized collectibles in the hobby. Condition, scarcity, and inscription factors like autographs can enormously impact the investment worth of cards bearing the image of this irreplaceable legend from baseball’s earliest era.

BROOKS ROBINSON TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Brooks Calvin Robinson is considered one of the greatest third basemen in Major League Baseball history. Over his 23-year MLB career spent entirely with the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977, Robinson established himself as a superb defender and reliable hitter who helped lead the Orioles to numerous pennants and World Series championships. His impressive on-field accomplishments have been recognized and commemorated through his appearance on many Topps baseball cards over the years.

Robinson made his Topps card debut in 1957 as a member of the up-and-coming Orioles. His 1957 Topps card (#273) depicts a clean-shaven Robinson in an action shot fielding a ground ball. This was the first of 22 consecutive Topps cards that Robinson would appear on through 1978, the year after his retirement. In the late 1950s, the Orioles were building a talented young core and Robinson’s defensive skills were already on display. His early Topps cards helped collectors of that era become familiar with one of baseball’s emerging stars.

The 1960s would turn out to be Robinson’s most successful decade. He was named AL Most Valuable Player in 1964 after batting .317 with 18 home runs and 88 RBI. That stellar season earned Robinson one of his most iconic Topps cards, the 1965 issue (#278). The bright orange-colored card features a classic headshot photograph of Robinson with his trademark glasses and mustache. It commemorates his MVP campaign and cemented his status among the game’s elite players. Robinson continued to shine on defense and was a member of the 1966, 1969, and 1970 World Series championship teams. His defensive wizardry was highlighted on cards throughout the 1960s as he routinely led the AL in fielding percentage and putouts at the hot corner.

The 1970s brought new accomplishments for Robinson as a veteran leader. In 1971, at age 36, he was still performing at an All-Star level. His 1971 Topps card (#325) touts his Gold Glove Award streak of 16 consecutive seasons. Robinson remained a defensive standout for the Orioles and helped them capture the 1970 AL Pennant. His value as a respected clubhouse presence is evident on his 1972 and 1973 Topps issues. Robinson’s defensive skills began to decline in 1974 but he was still a productive hitter. That season, he collected his 2,000th career hit, commemorated on his 1974 Topps card (#359).

Robinson’s 1975 Topps card (#369) marked the 20th anniversary of his MLB debut. It highlights some of his illustrious career stats and accomplishments accumulated over two decades, cementing his status as a true baseball legend. In 1976, at age 41, Robinson knew it was likely his final season. His 1976 Topps card (#389) pays tribute to his sure-handed defense and longevity in the sport he loved. Appropriately, Robinson’s final Topps baseball card was issued in 1978, the year following his retirement. Card #463 gives one last look at the Hall of Famer’s playing days with career stats and honors taking center stage.

In all, Robinson was featured on 22 consecutive Topps baseball cards from 1957-1978. His cards provide a visual timeline of not only his individual successes, but also the accomplishments of dominant Orioles teams from the 1960s. Robinson’s defensive prowess, hitting skills, and leadership qualities are highlighted throughout his Topps career. Today, Robinson’s vintage cards remain popular with collectors seeking pieces of his legendary 23-year MLB tenure. As one of the greatest third basemen in baseball history, Brooks Robinson ensured his place in the sport would be remembered each time a fan opened a pack of Topps cards.

FRANK ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Frank Robinson had a truly illustrious baseball career that spanned from 1956 to 1976. Known as a feared power hitter and trailblazer, Robinson was the first African American manager in Major League Baseball history. Not only was he a star on the field, but his baseball cards are also highly sought after by collectors today.

Robinson made his professional debut in 1956 with the Cincinnati Reds after being signed as an amateur free agent in 1952. That year marked the release of his rookie baseball cards. Among the notable 1956 baseball cards of Robinson’s rookie season include issues from Topps, Bowman, and Post. The 1956 Topps Frank Robinson card is considered one of the most iconic of his early career issues. Featuring an action photo of Robinson at the plate from his 1955 minor league season, the 1956 Topps card in high grade is valued in the thousands of dollars today.

Other memorable early Frank Robinson baseball cards include his 1958 and 1959 Topps issues. The 1958 card showcased Robinson in a Reds road grey uniform during his breakout MVP season when he hit 38 home runs and led the league with 122 RBIs. High grades of Robinson’s 1958 Topps card can fetch over $1,000. His 1959 Topps card from when he won his second consecutive NL batting title is also highly sought after. Robinson’s dynamic left-handed swing is captured on these iconic 1950s designs that defined his early stardom with Cincinnati.

After nine seasons with the Reds where he established himself as one of baseball’s premier power hitters and five-tool talents, Frank Robinson was traded to the Baltimore Orioles after the 1965 season. This marked a new chapter in his career where he won the Triple Crown and led the Orioles to the World Series championship in 1966. His 1966 Topps and Fleer baseball cards were some of the most visible of his career. The action shot on his ’66 Topps card showing Robinson swinging for the fences embodied his dominance that season and established the card as one of the most popular of the 1960s. High end PSA Gem Mint examples have sold for over $15,000 in recent years.

Robinson’s impact extended beyond the field as well. In 1975, he became player-manager of the Cleveland Indians, making him the first Black manager in MLB history. This opened the doors for future African American managers and established Robinson’s legacy extended beyond his playing career. The 1975 and 1976 Topps cards featuring Robinson as player-manager are highly significant in capturing this important milestone. While with Cleveland, Robinson also played in the final season of his Hall of Fame career in 1976. His 1976 Topps card closing out over two decades in the majors remains a desirable issue for collectors today.

After retiring, Robinson remained involved in baseball in both playing and managerial roles. He managed several clubs over 14 seasons in the majors including a second stint with the Cleveland Indians from 1981-1982. His managerial tenure was documented in subsequent baseball cards issuing during those seasons by Topps that round out Robinson’s unbelievable contributions to the game both as a player and pioneer. In 1982, Robinson led the Indians to the AL Pennant and came within one game of winning the World Series.

Beyond his playing days, high grade vintage Frank Robinson cards from his rookie season through retirement continue to gain steady value as one of the most respected players in baseball history. The rarity and significance of issues like his 1956 Topps rookie, 1958 and 1959 Topps, and 1966 Topps Triple Crown year make them especially valuable. Later 1980s managerial cards also hold appeal for completing Robinson’s entire baseball journey chronicled in plastic. Over 60 years since his debut, Frank Robinson’s impact is eternal both on and off the diamond as baseball cards allow future generations to experience the trailblazing career of this true legend.

LIST OF BROOKS ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Brooks Robinson is widely considered one of the greatest third basemen of all time. Playing his entire career for the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977, Robinson was an 18-time Gold Glover and was named the American League’s Most Valuable Player in 1964. His legendary defensive wizardry earned him the nickname “The Human Vacuum Cleaner.” Given his iconic status in baseball history, it’s no surprise that Robinson has been featured on many baseball cards over the years in the flagship sets produced by Topps, Fleer, and others. Let’s take a look at some of the most noteworthy Brooks Robinson baseball cards from across his illustrious career.

One of Robinson’s earliest cards comes from his rookie season in 1955 Topps. Sporting the straightforward black and white design of the era, the card features a clean picture of a young Robinson in an Orioles uniform. As one of his earliest issued cards, it remains a key rookie card that still holds value for collectors today given his eventual hall of fame induction and status. Another important early Robinson card comes from 1956 Topps. This card is notable not just because it was one of his earliest color cards issued, but also because it features one of the better action shots of a young Robinson at third base.

Moving into the 1960s, one of the most iconic Robinson cards comes from the 1964 Topps set. As the year Robinson won the AL MVP award, this card perfectly captures his triumph with a design highlighting the accolade across the front. The photo also shows a confident, in-his-prime Robinson. This is widely considered one of, if not the most, aesthetically pleasing Robinson card among collectors. His next big card comes just a year later from 1965 Topps, which again highlights his Gold Glove awards in a design framed around his impressive glove-work. This established the theme of highlighting Robinson’s fielding that would continue on many cards going forward.

In the late 1960s, Robinson’s cards began to take on new designs that reflected the changing styles and player portrait sizes of the era. The 1968 Topps card stands out for having one of the larger close-up headshots of Robinson as the design trends moved in that direction. His 1969 Topps card then showcased another innovative design element with a blue and orange color scheme not widely seen before. By 1970, as Robinson approached his mid-30s, his 1970 Topps card depicted him in a thrilling diving play at third to remind fans he was still one of the best fielders in the game despite his age. As Robinson moved into the back half of his career in the 1970s, his cards began reflecting more retrospective tones.

The 1972 Topps card had an elegant design look back at Robinson’s past accolades while the 1973 Topps issue depicted him in an classic knee-bending defensive pose from his prime years. Even in the final years of his playing career, Robinson received recognition like the 1975 Topps card honoring him for 2,500 hits and his consistent excellence over two decades for the Orioles franchise. His 1977 Topps card from his farewell season had an intimate close-cropped shot, perhaps symbolizing fans getting one last look at the legend before he retired. In the decades since, Robinson has been featured in many vintage reprint and commemorative sets that showcase the full arc of his prolific and record-setting Hall of Fame baseball career.

Whether it’s his rookie cards from the 1950s, iconic mid-career standouts like the 1964 MVP acknowledgment, or retrospective tribute cards as he exited the game in the late 1970s, Brooks Robinson has been commemorated extensively across the many years of Topps, Fleer, and other baseball card issues. His defensive wizardry, prolific offensive production, and status as a cornerstone of dominant Orioles teams made him one of the most collectible and memorable players ever featured in the hobby. To this day, fans and collectors alike cherish the baseball card memories of one of the greatest third basemen in history – The Human Vacuum Cleaner, Brooks Robinson.

BROOKS ROBINSON SIGNED BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Brooks Robinson is widely considered one of the greatest third basemen in Major League Baseball history. Over his 23 year career spent entirely with the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977, Robinson established himself as a defensive wizard at the hot corner and a consistent offensive threat. He was named American League MVP in 1964 and was a 18-time Gold Glove Award winner, both records for a third baseman. Robinson’s iconic status and lengthy, highly successful career have made his signed baseball cards some of the most sought after memorabilia for collectors.

Robinson signed with the Orioles organization in 1955 after being selected in the 20th round of the June draft out of the University of Illinois. He made his MLB debut that September and would go on to play in 2,896 career games for Baltimore over the next two decades. Robinson established himself as the Orioles starting third baseman in 1956 and never looked back, becoming a mainstay in the lineup for the next 21 seasons. His defensive prowess was on full display from the beginning, winning the first of his record 18 Gold Glove Awards in 1960.

Offensively, Robinson was consistently among the league leaders at the hot corner. He recorded over 100 RBI six times and hit over 20 home runs four times in his career. Robinson’s breakout season came in 1964 when he batted .269 with 34 home runs and 88 RBI, earning him American League MVP honors. This cemented his status as not only the greatest defensive third baseman ever, but also one of the top all-around players at the position. Robinson was a key part of the powerful Orioles teams that won four pennants and three World Series titles between 1966 and 1971.

Robinson retired after the 1977 season, holding the record for games played at third base with 2,870 over his 23 year career. He remained with the Orioles organization as a coach and front office executive after his playing days ended. Robinson was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983, receiving 94.3% of the vote in his first year of eligibility. He is still widely considered the best defensive third baseman in MLB history based on both advanced metrics and the eye test of those who saw him play.

Given his iconic status in Baltimore and the success he enjoyed over two decades, Brooks Robinson signed cards from his playing career hold significant value for collectors. Some of his more desirable signed cards include:

1964 Topps: Robinson’s MVP season is one of the most collectible years for his signed cards. The 1964 Topps set is highly sought after in general. A PSA/DNA authenticated Brooks Robinson signed 1964 Topps card recently sold for over $2,000.

1970 Topps: Another popular year, as Robinson was in his prime during the late 1960s Orioles dynasty run. A PSA/DNA authenticated 1970 Topps Robinson card brought in around $1,500 at auction.

1972 Topps: Robinson’s last “action” card before transitioning more to manager shots in later years. Sold for over $1,000 recently.

1973 Topps: One of Robinson’s final active season cards. Sold for just under $1,000.

1977 Topps: Robinson’s farewell season card. Can fetch $800-900 with authentication.

1960 Topps Rookie: As one of the earliest Robinson cards available, his 1960 Topps rookie is highly coveted. Sold for nearly $4,000 in a Beckett Graded Gem Mint 10 slab.

Orioles Team Issue Cards: Robinson frequently signed team-produced Orioles cards during his post-playing career. These can reach $500-700 with authentication.

The rarer the Robinson signed card and the better its condition, the higher the price it will command from avid collectors. Professionally authenticated cards with a third-party Grading company like PSA or Beckett carry the most value. Even unslabbed Robinson signatures on key cards from his playing days can sell for several hundred dollars or more depending on the year and visual condition. As one of the true icons of baseball history, Brooks Robinson remains one of the most collectible signed names in the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS CHARLIE ROBINSON 1964

Leave a reply

The 1964 Topps baseball card featuring St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Charlie Robinson holds a special place in the history of the sport and in the story of the civil rights movement in America. While Robinson may not be one of the most famous names in baseball card collecting today, his 1964 Topps issue tells an important tale from a pivotal time.

Charlie Robinson made his Major League debut with the Cardinals in 1962 at the age of 26, batting .250 in 57 games that season in a part-time role. He had worked his way up through the minor leagues after being signed by the Cardinals as an amateur free agent in 1956 out of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Standing just 5-foot-9 and weighing 165 pounds, Robinson wasn’t the biggest player on the field but he made up for it with blazing speed and excellent defensive skills in the outfield.

Robinson split time between Triple-A and St. Louis in 1963, playing in 52 games for the Cardinals and batting .268 while primarily serving as a pinch runner and defensive replacement off the bench. He entered the 1964 season looking to establish himself as a regular member of the Cardinals roster. The backdrop against which Robinson played that year was one filled with turmoil and change in America’s ongoing struggle with racial inequality and civil rights.

Just a few months prior to the start of the 1964 baseball season, prominent civil rights leader Medgar Evers was assassinated in Jackson, Mississippi. In June of that year, three young civil rights workers – James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner – went missing in Neshoba County, Mississippi and their bodies were later found buried in an earthen dam. Their murders helped spark further national attention and outrage over the ongoing racial violence and intimidation faced by blacks in the South.

It was against this culturally significant setting that Charlie Robinson’s 1964 baseball card was released as part of Topps’ flagship set that year. At a time when the nation was embroiled in heated debates over desegregation, the Voting Rights Act, and the ongoing fight against Jim Crow laws – Robinson’s card quietly but proudly featured one of the few black faces in a collection that was still overwhelmingly white. His smiling image stood as a small but meaningful symbol of progress and inclusion amid a sea of change.

While Robinson may not have been a star player, his presence in the 1964 Topps set helped reflect the growing role of African American athletes in the major leagues at the time. Pioneers like Jackie Robinson, who broke baseball’s color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, and Willie Mays, who was already an established superstar by 1964, paved the way for players like Charlie Robinson to showcase his talents on baseball’s biggest stage.

Robinson appeared in 70 games for the 1964 Cardinals, batting .250 while primarily used as a pinch runner and defensive replacement. He stole 11 bases that season without being caught, showcasing the blazing speed that was his best asset on the field. Unfortunately, injuries would limit Robinson to just 33 games the following year in 1965 as he hit .208 and saw his playing time dwindle. He was released by St. Louis after the 1966 season having played parts of 5 years in the majors.

While Robinson’s MLB career was relatively brief, his impact and legacy extend far beyond just his on-field contributions. As one of the few black faces featured in the 1964 Topps set at the height of the civil rights era, Robinson’s baseball card serves as an artifact from a pivotal cultural crossroads in American history. It quietly but proudly represented progress amid social upheaval. For collectors and fans today, Robinson’s 1964 Topps issue is a small but meaningful reminder of the barriers broken and ground gained by athletes like Robinson who paved the way for future generations. Nearly 60 years later, his smiling image still resonates as an iconic piece of sports and civil rights history captured in cardboard.

ALL BROOKS ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Brooks Robinson is considered one of the greatest third basemen of all time. Over his 23-year career playing exclusively for the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977, Robinson established himself as a phenomenal defensive player and reliable hitter. He won 16 consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1960 to 1975, cementing his reputation as one of the finest fielding third basemen in baseball history. Robinson was also a key member of the powerful Orioles teams that won the World Series in 1966, 1970 and 1971. His stellar on-field performance resulted in baseball card companies frequently featuring him over the decades. Here is an in-depth look at the various Brooks Robinson baseball cards issued throughout his career and beyond:

1955 Topps #96
Robinson’s rookie card was issued by Topps in their 1955 set. At the time, he was still establishing himself in the major leagues after making his debut in 1955. The design of the 1955 Topps cards featured a vertical format with the player’s photo on the left and stats/details on the right. Robinson’s rookie card captured him in an Orioles uniform with a serious expression in mid-swing. While not one of the higher valued rookie cards due to a larger print run and Robinson still being an unknown commodity, it remains the first cardboard depiction of his baseball career.

1956-1977 Topps Issues (#96, #428, #578, etc.)
Topps was the dominant baseball card company during Robinson’s playing career and featured him in their yearly sets from 1956 through 1977. His card design and number varied annually to match Topps’ set template for that particular year. Some of the more notable inclusions were his 1957 (#428) and 1963 (#578) Topps issues, which showed Robinson in action shots. As his career progressed and he racked up accomplishments, his later 1970s Topps cards gained more recognition and tend to be more pricey in the marketplace today.

1957-1977 Post Issues
Competing with Topps during this period was Post Cereal, who also included Robinson as a regular in their annual baseball card wax pack distributions and cereal box incentives. Similar to Topps, the Post cards tracked Robinson’s career from year to year with updated stats and photos. Notable examples include the 1957 (#96) issue that depicted him fielding and the 1969 (#30) card that captured him batting. While not as iconic as the Topps releases, the Post cards further expanded Robinson’s cardboard presence during his playing days.

1972-1973 Kellogg’s 3-D Baseball Card
In the early 1970s, Kellogg’s produced innovative 3-D baseball cards as a cereal promotion that required cardboard glasses to view the three-dimensional image. Robinson received dual cards in the 1972 and 1973 sets that featured a front image of him at the plate and a 3-D effect image when viewed through the red and green lenses. These unique cards highlighting one of the sport’s biggest stars from that era remain a highly sought after piece in collections today.

1974-1975 O-Pee-Chee Issues
As the Topps licensee in Canada, O-Pee-Chee also included Robinson in their 1974 and 1975 sets that were identical in content but with French and English text on the back. These issues provide another variation that Canadian collectors search for when completing their Robinson collection.

1976 SSPC #82
In 1976, Sportsticker Sports Promotions Corporation (SSPC) entered the baseball card market as a competitor to Topps and Post. Their beautifully illustrated set featured Robinson in the prime of his career with an action image of him fielding at third base. While short lived in the industry, the SSPC set is highly regarded by collectors.

1977-1978 Kellogg’s 3-D Super Stars Card
Following the success of their earlier 3-D issues, Kellogg’s produced a 100 card 3-D Super Stars set in 1977-1978 that featured players, coaches and managers from multiple sports. Robinson received one of the cards in the set highlighting him in the prime of his career for baseball fans and collectors. It stands out as one of the rarer vintage 3-D cards to acquire.

1981-1990 Donruss Issues
After retiring, Robinson began appearing in annual sets produced by Donruss in the 1980s. These included standard cardboard issues as well as early die-cut, foil and embossed variations that added a premium element to the cards. The Donruss releases helped sustain Robinson’s presence for collectors after he finished playing.

1984-1990 Fleer Issues
Concurrently, Fleer also incorporated Robinson into many of their yearly sets throughout the 1980s. Notable examples include the 1984 Fleer Update issue and 1990 Fleer card that depicted him in an action manager shot. The Fleer cards provided another option for collectors following Robinson’s post-playing career.

1988-1989 Score Issues
The Score trading card company entered the baseball card market in 1988 and included Robinson in both of their inaugural sets that year in the base issue and also in special “Traded” parallels highlighting his playing days with the Orioles. Their stylized retro-style designs were a hit with collectors.

1992 Upper Deck #1 Hologram
In 1992, Upper Deck revolutionized the industry with the introduction of hologram technology on cards. Robinson received the prestigious card #1 designation in the base set, which featured a hologram effect that made his image appear to jump from the card. Highly advanced graphics for its time, it’s one of the most iconic Robinson cards ever made.

1992 Studio #34, #40
The premium Studio set from Upper Deck in 1992 featured high-end images of Robinson that were considered works of art. The parallel #34 and #40 issues were short printed and among the rarest in the set, making them extremely valuable today for collectors.

1999 Fleer Greats of the Game Refractor #13
Late 1990s and early 2000s sets from companies like Fleer and Upper Deck included Robinson in special “Greats of the Game” subsets highlighting legends of the sport. The 1999 Fleer refractor parallel stands out for its prismatic refractors coating that adds to its appeal.

2000 Upper Deck Legends #L-BR
Upper Deck’s premiere Legends set in 2000 included a card focused on Robinson’s career achievements and accolades with #L-BR designation. High-end productions and low print runs make the Legends cards some of the most coveted in the hobby.

2008 Topps Tribute Blue Refractor #/50
In 2008, Topps paid tribute to Robinson with a blue refractor parallel limited to just 50 copies. The ultra-short print run makes this one of the most valuable modern Robinson cards available.

This covers just some of the most significant Brooks Robinson baseball cards issued over the decades by the major companies. As one of the best defensive players and most decorated stars in baseball history, Robinson earned appearances across countless other specialty and retro sets as well. The breadth of his cardboard coverage stands as a testament to his legendary on-field career and the impact he left on the game and collectors worldwide. Whether a rookie, star player, post-career alumni or commemorative tribute, Brooks Robinson remains one of the most iconic names to appear on baseball cards.

JACKIE ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

Leave a reply

Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947 as the first African American to play in the modern era when he started at second base for the Brooklyn Dodgers on opening day. His debut was a momentous occasion that helped push forward the civil rights movement in America. Not only was Robinson an exceptional player on the field, but he also endured racial hatred and abuse with dignity during his pioneering MLB career that lasted from 1947 to 1956.

Given his immense historical significance as the player who integrated professional baseball, Jackie Robinson’s rookie cards from his debut 1947 season hold tremendous value for collectors. They are among the most historically important and valuable baseball cards in the entire hobby. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Robinson’s most prized rookie cards and explore what they can be worth depending on their condition and scarcity.

1947 Robinson Debut Cards

1947 Leaf (#79) – Robinson’s first official baseball card depicts him in a Brooklyn Dodgers uniform. High grade specimens in mint condition can fetch over $100,000 at auction due to their immense rarity. Only around 50 are known to exist in collectors’ hands today in any condition after over 70 years.

1947 Bowman Gum (#12) – This is considered the true rookie card that launched Robinson’s MLB career. Just a few gem mint PSA 10 examples have ever come to market, selling for record prices around $500,000 each. Even well-centered near mint copies in PSA 8-9 condition can sell for $50,000-$150,000.

1947 Bazooka Bubble Gum – Extremely rare, with only a small handful believed still in existence. No authentic high grade examples have ever been authenticated and graded by PSA or SGC. Speculated to reach $1 million for a gem mint specimen if one were discovered.

1947 Red Man Tobacco – Like the Bazooka issue, phenomenally rare and elusive. Considered the holy grail for any serious baseball card collection given its historical significance as one of Robinson’s premier debut cards. Could shatter records by fetching seven figures for the first PSA 10 to surface.

1948-1956 Robinson Dodgers Cards

For the remainder of Robinson’s major league playing career spent entirely as a Brooklyn Dodger, he received regular issues in the main baseball sets of that era including:

1948 Bowman Gum
1948 Leaf
1949 Bowman
1950 Bowman
1951 Topps
1952 Topps
1953 Topps
1954 Topps
1955 Topps
1956 Topps

While not as rare as his debut 1947s, high grade examples of Robinson’s cards from 1948 onwards can still fetch impressive prices due to his iconic status:

PSA Gem Mint 10s of any vintage Robinson typically sell in the $3,000-$10,000 range depending on supply and demand factors.

Top conditioned 9s and 8.5s reach the $1,000-$3,000 level.

Near mint 8 copies fall in the $300-$1,000 bracket.

Well-centered exmps in the 7-7.5 range can sell for $100-$300.

Lower grades of 6 and below are more attainable, selling for $50-100+.

Also, some individual issues within certain years carry premiums. The rare 1951 Bowman color card for example can reach $50,000 in PSA 10 glory. And the desirable 1952 Topps with vibrant photographic printing sells strong as well.

Autograph Cards

Any card signed by Jackie Robinson himself exponentially increases in worth depending on the pedigree and quality of the signature. The best rookie or vintage signed cards will often fetch well over six figures from the most serious collectors:

1947 Leaf, 1948 Bowman, 1951 Topps PSA/JSA authenticated examples have topped $250,000 before.

Later Topps issues signed during his playing days reach $50,000-$150,000 in top condition.

Non-Bowman/Topps issue signings can still reach $20,000-$50,000 with authentication.

In Conclusion

All told, as the pioneer who broke MLB’s color barrier and faced racism with courage, Jackie Robinson holds a singular place in the history of the game of baseball. His rookie cards from 1947 and vintage Dodgers issues afterward carry immense significance that drives incredible prices from collectors seeking to own important pieces of sports history. With his legend only growing larger over the decades, the best Jackie Robinson baseball cards will surely remain among the most valuable in the hobby for years to come.

JACKIE ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

Leave a reply

Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier as the first African American player in the modern era when he debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947. Robinson’s impact and significance as a trailblazer continues to reverberate to this day, and his baseball cards from the 1940s and 1950s are among the most historically important and collectible in the hobby.

While Robinson played just 10 seasons in MLB from 1947 to 1956 before retiring at age 37, the cards produced during his playing career are tremendously sought after by collectors. Some of his key rookie and early career cards include his 1947 DeBeers Candy Company gum card, 1948 Tip Top bread card, 1949 Bowman and Topps cards, and 1951 Topps card. These early Robinson issues in top-graded gem mint condition can fetch tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction depending on condition.

For example, a Robinson 1947 DeBeers card in PSA mint 9 condition sold for $200,010 in a 2016 auction. Meanwhile, a 1949 Bowman Robinson card graded PSA 8 recently brought $174,000 at auction in 2019. Even a Robinson 1951 Topps in merely excellent conditioned but still graded PSA 5 sold for an impressive $27,600 in 2018. These astronomical prices demonstrate just how significant and iconic collectors view Robinson’s initial cards from breaking the MLB color barrier to be.

In addition to his earliest issues from the 1940s and 1950s, Robinson’s later career cards remain highly sought after as well. His 1952 and 1953 Topps cards in top condition can sell in the low five-figure range or higher. Even his output from his twilight seasons in the mid-1950s, which feature his later Brooklyn and New York Giants career, command high prices. For example, a 1955 Topps Robinson graded PSA 8 sold for $11,700 back in 2020.

While mint-condition examples of Robinson’s keycards set collectors back many thousands or even over $100,000, there are also plenty of opportunities to acquire his issues in played conditions for affordable prices. Even well-worn examples still carry value due to Robinson’s eminent status and also make for very nice affordable collectibles and displays. A 1957 Topps Robinson in only PSA 3 condition recently sold for $325.

Additionally, Robinson rookies and star cards have been regularly recreated and inserted into many modern baseball card sets over the decades by manufacturers like Topps and Upper Deck. While these reprints lack the historical authenticity and value of the true 1940s-1950s vintage issues, they still pay tribute to Robinson’s legacy and achievements breaking the color barrier. Many modern fans and collectors enjoy acquiring these reprints at affordable prices as appreciations of Robinson’s impact on baseball and society.

For collectors seeking vintage Robinson cards in higher grades at attainable costs, it’s recommended to watch the market and snatch up any priced reasonably during annual sports card conventions. Top regional shows like the National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City often see dozens of Robinson cards across all grades cross the auction block. With some patience, savvy collectors can find reasonably valued specimens in VG or EX condition for just a few hundred dollars.

Of course, buying directly from reputable vintage card dealers is another sound approach. Established businesses will professionally grade and authenticates all vintage Robinson lots. While pricing may be a bit higher versus the show circuit, dealing with a trusted vendor removes risks of potentially restored or bogus items found sporadically on auctions sites. Companies like PWCC Marketplace, Heritage Auctions, and Robert Edward Auctions bring steady consignments of authenticated Robinson offerings across the hobby price spectrum.

No matter the plate condition or production year, any Jackie Robinson baseball card in a collection carries immense historical gravitas. As one of sport’s true iconic figures who broke MLB’s color barrier with courage and class, demand for artifacts from his pioneering playing days will always remain intensely strong from collectors. Whether seeking a budget-friendly reprinted version or higher end vintage Robinson gem, today’s card fans have many pathways to appreciate and display this irreplaceable piece of baseball and civil rights history in their collections.

BROOKS ROBINSON BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

Brooks Calvin Robinson is considered one of the greatest defensive third basemen in Major League Baseball history. Nicknamed “The Human Vacuum Cleaner” for his stellar fielding abilities, Robinson played his entire 23-year career for the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977. He was a key member of the Orioles’ dynasty that won four World Series titles in the 1960s and 1970s. Robinson’s legendary defensive skills and consistency at the plate have made his vintage baseball cards highly sought after by collectors for decades.

While Robinson never had huge offensive numbers that would make him a superstar on the level of Mickey Mantle or Willie Mays, his all-around excellence and longevity have cemented his status as a true Hall of Famer. He was named American League Most Valuable Player in 1964 and won 16 consecutive Gold Glove Awards at third base from 1960 to 1975, both of which are records. Robinson’s defensive wizardry was a sight to behold, making acrobatic plays look routine with his quick reflexes, soft hands, and uncanny ability to track down hard-hit balls. Offensively, he was a model of consistency by hitting over .275 for his career with 228 home runs and over 1,000 RBIs.

Given his iconic status in Baltimore baseball history and the Orioles dynasty of the 1960s-70s, Brooks Robinson cards from his playing days hold significant nostalgic and collector value. Some of his most coveted and valuable vintage cards include:

1956 Topps #98: Robinson’s rookie card is one of the key cards for any vintage Orioles or Topps baseball card collection. In high grade (NM-MT 8 or above), PSA/BGS Population Reports show fewer than 10 gem mint examples exist. High grade 1956 Topps Robinson rookies in PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 condition have sold for $15,000-$25,000 in recent years. Even well-centered copies in PSA 8 or BGS 8 grade can fetch $3,000-$5,000.

1957 Topps #277: Robinson’s second Topps issue is also quite scarce in high grades. PSA 10 examples have sold for $12,000-$18,000, with PSA 8 copies bringing $2,000-$4,000. This is an iconic visual of the young superstar defensive player he was becoming.

1964 Topps #550: As his Most Valuable Player season, Robinson’s 1964 card is one of the most significant in documenting his career year. High grade copies in PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 can sell for $8,000-$12,000. Even PSA 8s still carry value of $1,500-$3,000 for this MVP issue.

1971 Topps #500: As one of Robinson’s later-career issues near the end of his time with the O’s dynasty, the 1971 has gained popularity. PSA 10s have sold for $4,000-$6,000, with PSA 8s bringing around $800-1,200.

1970 Topps #500: Another iconic visual of Robinson later in his career. PSA 10 copies have sold for $3,000-$5,000. PSA 8 condition 1970s can be acquired for $700-$1,000.

1972 Topps #650: Robinson’s final flagship Topps issue. PSA 10 copies have sold for $2,500-$3,500. PSA 8s go for $500-$800.

Beyond his Topps flagship cards, Robinson also had issues in other 1950s-70s sets like Bowman, Post Cereal, Kellogg’s, etc. His 1956 Bowman rookie in high grade can sell for $5,000-$8,000 in PSA 10. And his 1960 Post Cereal issue in PSA 8 condition has sold for around $1,000 due to the nostalgia of that cereal set.

In the modern era, Robinson autograph and memorabilia cards have also gained value. His autographed rookie cards from sets like 2003 Topps Tribute, 2005 Topps Retired Signature Edition Refractor parallel #/25, and 2010 Topps Tribute Masterpieces autograph patch #/10 in BGS 9.5 or PSA 10 condition have all sold in the $3,000-$5,000 range in recent years. And game-used memorabilia cards like 2013 Topps Sterling #107 jersey relic or 2016 Topps Archives #152 autographed bat relic in top grades have reached $1,000-$2,000 at auction.

Brooks Robinson’s impeccable defensive skills, durable career, iconic status on championship teams, and the nostalgia of his 1950s/60s/70s cardboard issues have cemented him as one of the most collectible players in the vintage set era. As one of the greatest third basemen in baseball history and a true “Oriole for life,” interest in Robinson’s cards from all phases of his playing days remains strong among collectors. Whether a pristine rookie card, key issue from his MVP season, or a later career visual, Brooks Robinson baseball cards continue to hold significant value for any vintage or Baltimore-themed collection.