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2022 SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Topps MLB Series 1 baseball card set was released on February 16th, 2022, marking the 70th anniversary of Topps’ legendary baseball card releases. The 850 card base set featured the biggest rookies and stars from the 2021 MLB season as well as star players from years past in special anniversary parallels.

Some of the biggest rookies featured as main stars of the set included 2020 American League Rookie of the Year Kyle Lewis from the Seattle Mariners, Giants shortstop Marco Luciano who is considered one of the top prospects in baseball, and 2020 National League Rookie of the Year Devin Williams of the Milwaukee Brewers. Past stars highlighted included recently retired Hall of Famer Derek Jeter on his classic Yankees card design from his rookie year along with Ted Williams, Hank Aaron, and more legends in special anniversary parallels.

In addition to the standard base card set numbered 1-850, Topps Series 1 introduced several exciting new inserts and parallels to commemorate the 70th anniversary. The 1970 parallel featured a retro design based on the classic 1970 Topps set with 70 copies of each card available. The 1956 Bowman design was honored with two parallel sets – a red parallel numbered to 70 copies and a gold parallel numbered to just 10 copies featuring several of the biggest names in baseball.

Legendary careers were also celebrated through the Hall of Fame Candidates insert set highlighting stars on the brink of Cooperstown like Albert Pujols, Miguel Cabrera, and Justin Verlander. Topps also paid homage to retired greats with a special Tribute parallel subset for stars like Jeter, Chipper Jones, and Mariano Rivera featuring their iconic photos one last time. Numerous hit prospects were featured in the coveted Top Prospects insert set as well including Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and more future stars.

In addition to the standard base set, Topps Series 1 introduced several exciting new parallels and inserts each with their own limited printing. The Platinum Anniversary parallel featured a slick black and white design with only 10 copies of each card available making them extremely scarce. The Red Foil parallel took the popular red border from previous years but added a striking red foil treatment with numbering capped at just 99 copies per card. Another hot parallel was the Green Shimmer parallel with an eye-catching green border and serial numbering to only 49 copies proving to be one of the hardest parallels to pull in the set.

The market for key rookies, prospects, and hits from the 2022 Topps Series 1 release exploded following the release. Top rookie cards like Bobby Witt Jr., Julio Rodriguez, and Adley Rutschman soared well above their checklists prices immediately. Prime star cards like Mike Trout, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Ronald Acuña Jr. also climbed in price as collectors chased the rare insert and parallel versions. Within just a few months, full entire base sets were selling for over $1000 due to the immense popularity and rookie class featured in the release.

Upper Deck also released soccer and hockey sets but Topps Series 1 is always the biggest and most high profile release to kick off the new baseball season. With over two months now since the release, the prices have remained quite high across the board for the key rookies and stars highlighted. The popularity of the set shows no signs of slowing down, especially with parallel and hit versions continuing to break records on the resale market. The 2022 Topps Series 1 release has certainly cemented its status as one of the top modern sets due to its star power and exciting new anniversary parallels available.

1993 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX SERIES 2

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The 1993 Topps Baseball Card set was the 42nd edition of Topps’ flagship baseball card offering. What makes the 1993 Topps Series 2 release particularly unique and desirable for collectors is the opportunity to purchase a complete unopened factory sealed box. These original boxes provide a rare opportunity to obtain a complete set in pristine condition exactly as they would have been delivered nearly 30 years ago straight from the Topps factory.

The 1993 Topps Series 2 release was the second series of cards produced as part of the full 660 card 1993 Topps Baseball Card set. Series 2 consisted of 231 cards numbered 257-487. The cards in the Series 2 release featured continuing coverage of the 1992 Major League Baseball season and postseason as well as rookie cards and additional photography not included in the initial Series 1 release earlier in the year.

Each factory sealed Series 2 box would have originally contained 21 factory wrapped wax packs with 11 cards per pack for a total of 231 cards. The shrink wrapped boxes stood approximately 12 inches tall, 9 inches deep and 6 inches wide. The front of each brightly colored box featured the familiar Topps logo along with images of stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr. and Roberto Alomar.

Within each sealed pack collectors could find a mix of stars, rookies, and common players. Some of the notable rookie cards included in 1993 Topps Series 2 were Jeffrey Hammonds, Travis Fryman, Paul Shuey, and Stan Royer. Vintage rookie cards like these graded and encapsulated in Gem Mint condition can fetch hundreds if not thousands of dollars today. In addition to rookies, collectors could find inserted statistical or record breaker cards highlighting milestones from the prior season.

Opening a fresh factory sealed box from 1993 would allow collectors to experience the excitement and thrill of the baseball card opened mint. With each carefully cut wax paper pack there is anticipation of what shiny new card may be discovered. The smell of the fresh wax brings collectors straight back to their childhood love of collecting. Obtaining a complete unopened Series 2 box is like finding a time capsule locked away for nearly three decades.

Keeping cards in their original sealed packaging preserves their condition and allows for true grading of the set’s status. Topps quality control in the early 1990s ensured tight cardboard and stock that has stood the test of time. An unmolested factory sealed Series 2 box would guarantee that all 231 cards remain in pristine Near Mint to Mint condition protected from any wear and tear that multiple previous owners may have caused over the years.

A 1993 Topps Baseball Card Series 2 box in its original unopened state provides collectors the rarest of opportunities. It allows you to experience the thrill of the card opening experience as if it were 1993 all over again. Obtaining the complete factory sealed 231 card Series 2 set in a state of preserved freshness is the ultimate prize for collectors. Very few of these original boxes remain tucked away after nearly 30 years. For the serious vintage baseball card investor or aficionado of cardboard history, a 1993 Topps Series 2 unopened box represents one of the crown jewels of the collecting world.

1991 SCORE MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 1

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The 1991 Score major league baseball card series 1 was the flagship set released by Score Board/Score Ltd. that year. The set had 132 total cards and featured all 26 Major League teams from 1990. Many consider the 1991 Score set to be one of the most iconic and collectible baseball card releases of all-time.

Score obtained the exclusive license to produce baseball cards in 1991 after Topps lost the rights. They created a beautifully designed set that featured vibrant team logo designs on a colorful background. Each card had a unique color scheme specific to the featured player’s team. The photography was crisp and high quality. Subjects were posed thoughtfully and many of the images captured the player’s personality.

Rookies featured included Tom Glavine, David Justice, Chuck Knoblauch, and Eddie Murray in his final season. Superstar veterans like Nolan Ryan (in his final season), Kirby Puckett, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith graced the checklist as well. The design captured the essence and nostalgia of the 1990 MLB season while also feeling modern for its time.

Despite being the “standard” series 1 release, the 1991 Score set stands out because of the care and attention paid to every facet of its design and production. The photography, creative layouts, team logos and typefaces blended together seamlessly. Compared to some competing brands of the time that felt more formulaic, Score created a refreshing artistic approach that resonated with collectors both young and old.

The checklist leader for the 1991 Score base set was Hall of Famer George Brett in his final MLB season. Brett’s dominance in the 1970s and 80s made him an iconic presence for baseball fans and card collectors during that era. His featured card in the 1991 Score set commemorated a legendary career and likely increased interest in completing the set. Other notable veterans like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Nolan Ryan also boosted the allure and nostalgia of the 1991 Score collection.

Another standout aspect was the inclusion of team logos directly on the uniform fronts of each player image. This added a pop of vivid color to every card that tied it to its affiliated MLB franchise. Score obtained cutouts of each official logo from the Liga Mayor de Béisbol Profesional de México teams. Placing these proud symbols front and center emphasized the link each star had to their ballclub.

The visual elements weren’t the only things that set 1991 Score apart. The card stock quality was superior – thick, crisp and durable. This helped the photographs really “pop” off the surface. Although basic, the borders framing each image were creatively designed to not feel stale. Additionally, Score added foil stamping and embossing techniques on many of the higher series cards that made them shimmer captivatingly in hand.

Given its incredible attention to detail, vibrant design philosophy, and stacked checklist of present and historical MLB greats – it’s no surprise the 1991 Score baseball card set 1 achieved iconic status. While other brands may have coasted by with more assembly line production values, Score took the time to carefully craft every facet of the visual and textual experience for collectors. This level of passion and artistry is what has allowed the 1991 flagshipScore baseball card series 1 to maintain its prominence and collectibility amongst enthusiasts to this day.

When 1991 Score cards were pulled from fresh wax packs that year, the mesmerizing team logos, dynamic action photographs and slick polished surfaces surely caught the eyes of young fans. Even today, the cards retain their eye-catching pop on the racks of local card shops and online auctions. The set manages to feel both retro in its nostalgia yet remarkably has stood the test of time appearing fresh and contemporary. Its widespread popularity is evidenced by the strong aftermarket values its most desireable rookie and star player issues still command to this day.

For those collecting during the early 90s or discovering the hobby in subsequent years, the 1991 Score baseball card set 1 was undoubtably an iconic staple of the era that sparked endless childhood memories and collections. Its compelling photography, vivid colors and focus on each player’s connection to their MLB team made it an instant classic upon arrival. While production values and baseball cards themselves may fluctuate wildly year over year, Score’s 1991 effort seems to have captured perpetual nostalgia through its thoughtful creative spirit and inclusion of luminaries from across baseball history. This masterful assemble established a high benchmark that the brand aspired to match but rarely outdid in future seasons.

The overall checklist lent itself to both completionists gathering full team and star player/rookie subsets alike. Over the decades, the 1991 Score base cards have become available in graded and authenticated forms increasingly as interest in vintage issues has grown exponentially. The sheer balanced greatness of its subjects like Brett, Smith, Boggs, Ryan and others fuel its fascination. Meanwhile, the low print runs of dominant rookies like Glavine, Justice and Knoblauch add intrigue to each unopened pack’s possibilities when the cards were fresh. All of this helps explain why 1991 Score series 1 remains a vintage set continually in high demand and regarded by many as the finest baseball card release of its time.

The legacy and staying power of the 1991 Score major league baseball card series 1 issue is remarkably evident even today, some 30 years since packs first hit stores. Its meticulous design, amazing photography, and capsule of MLB’s brightest past and present talents seem to have captured a truly timeless nostalgia. Whether judging purely on the back of its incredible checklist full of legends or taking in all the stylish subtle nuances of how Score crafted each individual cardboard treasure – this set clearly established itself as a watershed moment. Even amongst the sea of other acclaimed vintage releases over the decades since, 1991 Score series 1 seems cemented as a true constant at the summit for collectors, enthusiasts and those seeking to relive the magic of their memories through quality cardboard.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 2

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Topps Baseball Cards Series 2 is part of Topps’ flagship baseball card release each year that began in 1952. The Series 2 set follows Series 1 each season and features additional players, managers, teams, and stadium photos not included in the initial release. Some key facts and history about Topps Baseball Cards Series 2:

In 1952, Topps released their pioneering modern baseball card set which helped launch the hobby and memorabilia industry. This original release is considered the first Topps Series 1. The next year in 1953, Topps issued a 96 card follow up set containing cards that didn’t make it into the initial ’52 release. This second series established the model that Topps would follow for decades of having Series 1 and 2 each season.

Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Topps Series 2 sets ranged in size from around 50-150 cards and usually featured primarily player photography not utilized in Series 1 along with some team and manager headshots. Rookie cards were usually sprinkled into both series sets. The early years featured straightforward designs with simple borders and statistical information on the back. Topps obtained exclusive rights to produce mainstream baseball cards during this period which helped their products and the hobby boom in popularity.

By the late 1960s and 1970s, Topps Series 2 sets grew larger in size to around 150-250 cards. More elaborate card designs and photography arose during this period. The back of the cards shifted focus toward player bios and accomplishments rather than stats. Iconic players like Mickey Mantle, Hank Aaron, and Willie Mays had their careers chronicled across both Topps Series 1 and 2 releases each year. Several Hall of Famers had their official rookie cards come in Series 2 such as Reggie Jackson, Rollie Fingers, and Carlton Fisk.

The 1980s witnessed a peak in size for Topps Baseball Series 2 sets. Annual issues ranged from 250 up to 350 cards with dye-cut, embossed, and rare “hit” insert categories added to the product mix. Star players and popular teams received extra spotlight cards dispersed between the two series. Traded players changed uniforms within the same season on their Series 2 cards reflecting their new baseball homes. The decade is also remembered for extraordinary rookie class debuts like Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and Dwight Gooden being featured.

Through the 1990s and 2000s, Topps Series 2 sets maintained set sizes averaging 250-300 total cards per year. Production quality and parallel/serial numbering technology increased card variations available for enthusiastic collectors. Internet trading also took off allowing set builders to more easily complete their annual Topps Album collections spanning Series 1 and 2. Contemporary stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, and Chipper Jones had their entire careers chronicled across Topps releases. 21st century additions like autographed memorabilia cards further enhanced the appeal of the traditional baseball card program.

Today, Topps continues their longstanding tradition of Series 2 following each year’s flagship baseball set. While the collectibles industry has expanded, Topps remains the leader in licensed major league baseball cards. Past and present players are annually honored across the two primary series releases designed to document a single season and entire careers over time. Whether hunting for rookies, chasing parallels, or building complete sets – Topps Baseball Cards Series 2 remains an iconic part of the modern sports card tradition. The supplementary series format helps ensure that multiple phases of each season are captured for history and enjoyment of collectors old and new.

TOPPS BASEBALL 2022 UPDATE SERIES MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2022 Topps Baseball Update Series was released in late August/early September and contains plenty of rookie cards, autographs, and parallels of star players that have already seen their collectibility and values rise significantly in the months since its release. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable rookie and star player cards from the set that collectors are keen to get their hands on.

Perhaps the most sought after card from the 2022 Topps Update Series is the Bobby Witt Jr. rookie card. The star Kansas City Royals rookie shortstop had an excellent debut season that saw him finish second in AL Rookie of the Year voting. His base rookie card from the set has already reached over $100 in near mint condition and remains one of the hottest rookie cards on the market. Autographs and parallels of his card Command even higher prices. The Witt Jr. autograph can fetch $1000 or more, while rare parallels like the /5 blue refractor parallel have sold for well over $2000. Clearly, Witt Jr.’s star power and production as a 21-year-old have collectors excited about his long term potential and the value of his rookie cards looks set to continue rising.

Another huge rookie draw from the set is Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodríguez. Like Witt Jr., Rodríguez had a breakout rookie campaign that saw him finish third in AL ROY voting. His base rookie card also surpassed $100 and his autographed cards trade hands for $500-1000 depending on parallel. The true gems though are the ultra-rare sepia paper /5 parallels, which have sold for upwards of $3000-4000 due to their limited print run. Rodríguez looks like a perennial all-star in the making and his cards could appreciate significantly if he fulfills his enormous potential.

Two other rookies that have seen early value spikes due to impressive debut seasons are Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña and Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz. Peña was not only the ALCS and World Series MVP but also took home AL ROY honors in 2022. As a result, his base rookie jumped to a $75-100 price range with autographed editions fetching $350-600. Baz also had flashes of dominance in his rookie campaign before an elbow injury cut it short. Nonetheless, his autographed cards have brought in $400-700 and the high-numbered parallels around $100-150. Both players have rookie cards that still have plenty of room for growth if they build on their early success.

Moving beyond rookies, superstar veterans still hold plenty of collecting appeal in the 2022 Update Series. For example, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge had one of the most prolific single season home run performances in history when he clubbed 62 long balls. Not surprisingly, any Judge cards from the set carry a premium. His base card sells between $50-75 while short prints and autographs command $200-350. The true trophies are the rare Judge parallels like the /5 sepia refractor, which already checks in at $1000-1500 raw just months after the set released. With all the hype around Judge’s massive 2022 season, those prices seem poised to rise further still.

Another veteran slugger who rakes in card value thanks to an awe-inspiring 2022 campaign is St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. At 35, Goldschmidt had perhaps the best year of his career, leading the NL in batting average, slugging percentage and OPS. As a result, his Update Series cards have shown strong returns. The base gold schmidt runs $30-50 while rare parallels like the green /99 and sepia /5 refractors exceed $150-250. His autographed cards tend to fetch $150-300 based on parallel. With Goldschmidt proving he has plenty left in the tank, his Update Series cards could maintain relevancy if he continues raking in 2023 and beyond.

Moving to the pitching side of things, Cards flamethrower Jordan Montgomery has seen early returns since being acquired from the Yankees at the trade deadline. In St. Louis, Montgomery posted a 2.09 ERA down the stretch and looked like a new pitcher. As a result, his Update Series cards have already started gaining steam. The base Montgomery sells for $15-25 while autographed parallels move for $125-200 with rarer refractors over $250. If Montgomery carries his newfound success into 2023 as the Cards #3 starter, those prices could trend upwards further. His strong finish to 2022 has built excitement around his long term prospects.

Continuing with breaking pitchers, Phillies ace Zack Wheeler has established himself as one of baseball’s most dependable aces over the past few seasons. In 2022, Wheeler tossed 212 innings of 3.07 ERA ball for a playoff team, gaining more national recognition. Accordingly, Update Series cards featuring “Ace” Wheeler command a healthy bump in value. His standard issue sells between $15-25 while harder to find parallels like the gold /50 and sepia /5 refractors hit $75-125. Autographed editions tend to sell in the $150-300 range depending on parallel. Wheeler remains one of the most durable frontline starters in MLB – so his cards retain long term appeal.

Rounding out the top high value veterans, San Diego Padres superstar Manny Machado continues to make his presence felt on the collecting scene. Even after a decade in the Majors, Machado maintains all-star caliber production and his Update Series cards reflect that sustained excellence. The base Machado checks in around $15-25 but rarer autographed andParallel cards gain exponentially from there. Machado autographs run $150-300 while short prints like the /50 and /5 refractors soar to $150-250. Few active players have maintained hobby relevance as long as Machado – so his cards should retain strong valuations as long as he continues raking.

The 2022 Topps Update Series houses a litany of rookie cards, autographs and parallels for stars of both the present and future that have already shown sharp rises in Collectibility and value just months after release. From Witt Jr. and Rodríguez on the rookie side to veterans like Judge, Goldschmidt and Machado, the set offers cards for collectors of every interest level that are poised to gain further in time. For those looking to invest in the present and future of the hobby, cracking packs of 2022 Topps Update remains as sound an option as any on the modern collecting scene today.

TOPPS BASEBALL 2022 SERIES 1 BEST CARDS

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The 2022 baseball season has arrived which means a new year of Topps Series 1 packs being opened. Topps is the premier brand when it comes to sports card producing and their baseball cards are some of the most popular on the market. With Series 1 being the flagship set that kicks off each year, these cards offer aspiring collectors a chance to land iconic rookies and stars for a reasonable price early in the card cycle.

While every pack has a chance to surprise, some specific cards from Topps Baseball 2022 Series 1 have stood out as particularly valuable or desirable. Let’s take an in-depth look at several of the best cards collectors will want to target in this set.

Bobby Witt Jr. Chrome Refractor RC (#12) – As one of the top prospects in baseball, Bobby Witt Jr. lived up to the hype with an outstanding MLB debut for the Kansas City Royals in 2022. His Topps Series 1 Chrome Refractor is shining bright as perhaps the top card in the set. Only available through special Chrome or high-end jumbo packs, the Refractor parallel looks incredible in person with its color shifting refractors. Witt Jr. is a face of the next generation and will be a top star for years, making this an iconic rookie to acquire.

Julio Rodriguez Gold Label RC (#92) – Julio Rodriguez was nothing short of sensational as a rookie for the Seattle Mariners, coming in as a finalist for AL Rookie of the Year. His popularity has only increased since. The Gold Label parallel from Series 1 offers a premium version of the J-Rod rookie card with its gold-tinted label drawing the eye. Gold Labels are rare pulls that command a strong bonus in value. With Rodriguez’ ceiling as high as any young talent, this parallel stands out.

Spencer Strider Rainbow Foil RC (#479) – As a breakout ace for the Atlanta Braves, Spencer Strider made his Topps cards extremely sought after overnight. While the base rookie is nice, the Rainbow Foil parallel really makes his card pop. Its iridescent rainbow effect adds luxury to what is already a key rookie. Strider showed he may be a future staff ace, preserving long term value in his rookie cards like this specialized parallel.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Sepia RC (#132) – Even after missing much of 2022 due to injury, Ronald Acuña Jr. retains star power few can match. His flagship Topps rookie from 2018 remains a fan favorite card. The sepia tones on this parallel aged it to look like a true vintage issue. As one of Acuña’s earliest signature cards, its attractiveness and importance to his collection makes the Sepia parallel a coveted piece for any collector.

Sandy Alcantara Rainbow Foil SP (#498) – As the NL Cy Young winner in 2022, Sandy Alcantara showed he is one of baseball’s absolute best. His Topps cards gained tremendous value accordingly. The Rainbow Foil parallel shimmers beautifully and perfectly captures Alcantara celebrating his breakout award-winning season. His ascending status makes any specialty parallel like this coveted by serious collectors looking for Cy Young caliber stars.

Riley Greene Gold /2021 (#96) – As the Tigers top prospect, Riley Greene made a strong impressions in his debut campaign. While he has plenty of flagship rookies, the 2021 Gold parallel stands above the rest. Limited to only /2021 copies worldwide, its ultra-low serialed nature turns it into a true one-of-a-kind collectible. For Detroit fans and investor-minded collectors, this is a card that can gain immense long term value as Greene’s career progresses.

Juan Soto Printing Plate 1/1 (#186) – No player is as precocious an offensive force at such a young age as Juan Soto. His accolades already rival aging superstars. As one of only one printed per player, the 1/1 printing plate is the true platinum parallel. An unattainable treasure for most, it exemplifies Soto at the pinnacle of collectibles. Few cards hold as much prestige or allure for serious card investors. Any Soto fan would be overjoyed pulling this ultra-rare 1-of-1 card.

Austin Riley Gold Label /299 (#96) – While his stats dipped a bit from MVP caliber 2021, Austin Riley remains an All-Star level third baseman for the Braves. His Gold Label parallel offers that esteemed twist on an already highly viewed rookie card. The gold tint gives it luxury appeal and the low /299 print run scarcity. As a Braves fan favorite, collectors adore chasing any premium parallel for the rising slugger like this slick looking card.

Yordan Alvarez Photo Variation (#337) – As the league’s most feared slugger, Yordan Alvarez delivers jaw-dropping offensive feats for Houston. His limited photo variation switch-up stands out amongst standard issue cards. Featuring an alternate action shot, its scarcer nature draws intrigue. Alvarez is a cornerstone player for the Astros with MVP caliber skills. Chasing his rarer photography variants makes for an exciting addition to any collection.

Seiya Suzuki Sepia RC (#384) – As an international star signing, Seiya Suzuki brought excitement to Wrigleyville in his first MLB campaign with Chicago. His sepia toned Topps rookie is classic and captures his smooth left-handed swing. Sepia parallels age the image in a nostalgic way fitting for a historic franchise like the Cubs. Suzuki showed all the skills to be a steady leadoff man, giving his sepia issue long term staying power.

Shohei Ohtani Printing Plate 1/1 SP (#509) – No player captivates the sport quite like two-way star Shohei Ohtani. The Japanese phenom continues redefining expectations at a rate few can comprehend. His 1/1 printing plate super short print from Series 1 is essentially the Holy Grail for any collector. Attainable by virtually no one, it signifies Ohtani’s unique place at the very pinnacle of the hobby. Any fan would cherish the thrill of finding this unprecedented one-of-a-kind card.

This covers just a sampling of the standout cards to watch for in Topps Series 1 2022. With rookies of rising talents like Witt Jr., flagship cards of full-fledged stars, and scarce parallels, this beloved set offers something for every type of collector. For fans joining the hobby or investors long active in it, chasing these prized cards makes the annual release of Series 1 can’t miss fun.

1991 DONRUSS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Donruss Series 1 baseball card set was the ninth release from the popular Donruss brand and marked a milestone year as it was the first set released after the MLB players strike that canceled the 1990 postseason and pushed the 1991 season back. The set contains photos from the 1990 season but brought excitement as players were returning after the work stoppage.

Donruss was a leader in the baseball card industry in the late 80s and early 90s, known for high quality colorful photography on their cardboard. The 1991 release kept this tradition alive with crisp close-up portraits of the game’s biggest stars. The 329-card base set featured each player photographer individually with a gray bordered design. Standouts include Ken Griffey Jr’s powerful left-handed swing, Nolan Ryan’s over-the-top windup at age 43, and Rickey Henderson stealing another base.

Rookies included in the ’91 Donruss set that would go on to have Hall of Fame careers are Chipper Jones, Jeff Bagwell, and Tom Glavine. But the true rookie gem was Felipe Alou’s grandson, Moises Alou, who had one of the smoothest left-handed strokes in the league. Other notable young players making their Donruss debuts were Bobby Bonilla, Gregg Jefferies, and Terry Mulholland.

Veteran players rounding out the base checklist included future Hall of Famers Wade Boggs, George Brett, Eddie Murray, and Ozzie Smith. Fans also delighted in seeing Stars of the 80s like Mike Schmidt, Tony Gwynn, and Gary Carter. The design featured no team logos, so collectors had to rely on uniform recognition to identity players after they left their original clubs.

The insert chase cards added excitement to the 1991 Donruss Series 1 hobby boxes. These included ‘Diamond Kings’ parallels of stars on 1/1 cardboard stock, ‘Rated Rookies’ highlighting top prospects, and ‘Donruss All-Stars’ saluting some of the games greats from years past. A popular serialized parallel was the green-bordered ‘Green Tint’ parallel only numbered to 50 copies each. All these premium chase cards boosted the appeal of the base set.

Once the cards hit the marketplace, Griffey Jr’s rookie gained instant popularity as collectors could foresee his future superstar status. Other early favorites that gained traction among investors and traders included the Chipper Jones, Jeff Bagwell, and Glavine rookies along with stars like Nolan Ryan and Ryne Sandberg. The short printed parallel inserts also commanded strong interest and price tags from the beginning.

Within a few years, the 1991 Donruss set had become one of the strongest and most collected sports releases from the early 90s. Players like Griffey, Bagwell, and Jones delivered on their hype with Hall of Fame careers while the whole industry boom kept interest high. PSA and BGS slabbing also took off helping preserve the condition of the best specimens. Today, high grade examples of major stars and the toughest parallels remain quite valuable in the trading card market.

The 1991 Donruss baseball release arrived at the perfect time to help launch a new era of the sport after labor disputes threatened its future. Filled with superstars returning to action and young talents poised to take the game to new heights, the photography and designs captured memorable MLB moments. While not quite as iconic as some of the vintage releases that preceded it, the ’91 Donruss set showed why the brand was a industry leader. By spotlighting the sports best players during that transitionary season, it achieved lasting collector appeal and growth in value over the decades.

MOST VALUABLE 2017 TOPPS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Series 1 baseball card set was released in late January 2017 and contained numerous rookie cards and stars from the 2016 season that have significant future potential. While most packs contained common cards worth only a few cents, some packs contained highly valuable rookie cards or star veteran cards that could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 2017 Topps Series 1 baseball cards to pull from packs or buy as singles:

Cody Bellinger Rookie Card (RC) – The #1 card from the 2017 Topps Series 1 set is the Cody Bellinger rookie card. Bellinger had a phenomenal rookie season with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017, batting .267 with 39 home runs and 97 RBIs and winning NL Rookie of the Year honors. His Topps Series 1 rookie card is one of the key rookie cards from the entire 2017 season and is extremely valuable in high grades. Mint condition PSA 10 Bellinger rookies have sold for over $1,000 with most graded examples in the $200-500 range. Even raw copies in excellent condition can fetch $100-200. Bellinger appears poised for stardom making this one of the signature rookie cards from the entire decade.

Aaron Judge Rookie Card – Right behind Bellinger is another extremely valuable rookie, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. After breaking Mark McGwire’s rookie home run record with 52 homers in 2017, Judge became one of baseball’s biggest stars overnight. His Topps Series 1 rookie card exploded in value, with high grade PSA 10 copies approaching $1,000 as well. Most PSA 9 copies sell for $300-500 while raw mint versions can be had for $100-200. Judge looks like a perennial MVP candidate, practically ensuring his Topps rookie will remain one of the premier modern cards for years to come.

Corey Seager Rookie Card – Seager had a breakout season in 2016 when he won NL Rookie of the Year honors and helped lead the Los Angeles Dodgers to the NL pennant. His Topps Series 1 rookie card from 2015 remained a hot commodity in 2017. High grade PSA 10 copies consistently sell for $400-600 while most PSA 9’s go for $150-300. Even in raw near-mint condition, Seager rookies demand $50-150 due to his young age (24 in 2017), all-star performance, and status as a franchise cornerstone for the Dodgers going forward.

Alex Bregman Rookie Card – Bregman came off a strong rookie campaign for the Houston Astros in 2016 where he batted .264 with 19 home runs and 52 RBIs. His potential and role on a perennial contender like Houston make his Topps Series 1 rookie highly regarded. PSA 10 Bregman rookies sell in the $200-300 range usually with most PSA 9’s around $75-150. Even raw near-mint copies trade hands for $40-75 regularly. At just 23 years old in 2017, Bregman looked primed for stardom keeping his rookie card prices buoyant.

Yoan Moncada Rookie Card – Moncada was one of the most hyped international prospects ever when he signed with the Boston Red Sox out of Cuba. Traded to the Chicago White Sox in 2016, Moncada had a promising debut late in the year leaving scouts frothing over his future. As a result, his Topps Series 1 rookie remains a hot ticket. PSA 10 Moncadas reach $250-350 with most PSA 9’s around $100-200. Even raw near-mint copies demand $30-75 based on Moncada’s franchise-caliber talent at just age 21 in 2017.

Kris Bryant SP Variation – The Kris Bryant short print variation remains one of the prized shorts from Topps Flagship sets. Numbered to only 69 copies, these ultra-rare variations sell for an absolute premium. PSA 10 Bryant short prints have been known to sell for over $2,000 with most graded specimens in the $500-1,000 range. Even low-grade examples still bring $200-300 based on the extreme rarity and stature of Bryant, the reigning 2016 NL MVP, as a modern-day baseball superstar. Outside of autograph and relic cards, the Bryant SP stands out as the most intrinsically valuable card in the entire 2017 Topps Series 1 collection.

Clayton Kershaw Base Card – As one of the finest pitchers of his generation, any Clayton Kershaw card holds value. But his base card from Topps Series 1 remains a perennial favorite for collectors. In PSA 10 condition, Kershaw bases have sold for $250-350. Most PSA 9’s go for $75-150 with raw near-mint copies changing hands for $25-50. Even at age 29 in 2017, Kershaw showed no signs of slowing down and looked poised to cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats, guaranteeing his cards remain a collector favorite for years.

Noah Syndergaard SP Variation – Coming in a very close second to the Bryant short print for rarities in the 2017 Topps Series 1 set is the coveted Noah Syndergaard short print variation, of which there were only 25 copies made. An almost impossibly rare pull, PSA 10 “Thor” short prints have astonishingly sold for up to $1,500 before with most elite examples between $500-1,000. Even lower graded examples in the PSA 7-8 range have reached $200-300 prices. Simply put, the Syndergaard SP stands as one of the single most valuable cards from the flagship Topps series in years.

Mike Trout SP Variation – No discussion of modern valuable cards is complete without mentioning Mike Trout. While not quite as rare as the above Syndergaard at 99 copies made, the Trout short print retains immense value due to his status as arguably the best player in baseball. PSA 10 Trout SPs consistently sell for $300-500, with most PSA 9s in the $150-300 range as well. Clearly, Trout continues to be the golden goose of the collectibles industry, making any of his prized short prints universally coveted items for both investors and fans alike.

The 2017 Topps Series 1 set showed that while most packs contain readily available commons, there is always the chance at pulling a highly valuable modern star rookie or ultrarare parallel that could net collectors hundreds or thousands of dollars. Top rookies from the year like Bellinger, Judge and others are sure to retain value for decades as their careers progress. Meanwhile, scarce short prints of future Hall of Famers like Bryant, Trout and Syndergaard could grow to be worth small fortunes to their fortunate holders. Whether seeking key young prospects or rare veteran parallels, the 2017 Topps Series 1 set housed many potential long-term blue chip investments.

1990 TOPPS TRADED SERIES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Topps Traded baseball card set was released by Topps as an update to its flagship Topps baseball set. Similar to how Topps Traded sets are produced today, the 1990 version featured players who had been traded or acquired via free agency since the initial Topps release earlier that year. At 144 cards total, the 1990 Topps Traded set showcased many new additions to teams’ rosters after the start of the season.

Some notable trades from the 1989-1990 offseason that were highlighted included Gary Carter going from the Montreal Expos to the New York Mets, Nolan Ryan leaving the Texas Rangers for the California Angels, and Willie Randolph joining the Dodgers after many successful seasons with the Mets. other big names in new uniforms included Dennis Eckersley (who won the 1990 AL Cy Young Award) pitching for the Oakland A’s after time with the Cubs and Cardinals, and Brett Butler playing centerfield for the Atlanta Braves following stints with Cleveland and San Francisco.

Topps Traded sets in the late 1980s and early 90s tended to have photo variations between the original release and traded release for certain players. In 1990, Vince Coleman’s card showed him with the Mets in the Topps set but with the Kansas City Royals (his new team) in Traded. The reverse was true for David Cone – he appeared as a Royal in Topps but as a Met in Traded following an offseason trade. Other players like Tony Fernandez, Willie Wilson, and Tom Brunansky saw photo switches reflecting their new uniforms between the two issues.

In addition to chronicling player trades, the 1990 Topps Traded set also highlighted some other roster changes. Free agents who signed with new teams like Bobby Bonilla (Pirates), Rick Reuschel (Yankees), and Jeff Reardon (Red Sox) got cards in Traded. Minor leaguers who were called up were included, such as Eric Anthony and John Wetteland for the Dodgers and Darren Daulton and Terry Mulholland for the Phillies. Even a manager change was noted via a Billy Martin card reflecting his move from the A’s to the Rangers.

Design-wise, the 1990 Topps Traded cards mostly replicated the base design from the flagship release but with different color scheme options. The standard format included the team name across the top, with the remainder of the front dedicated to a vertical action photo with limited border. Player names and stats were contained at the bottom. On the back, a new team’s logo could be seen at top right next to positions played.

A key aesthetic difference versus the earlier series was the inclusion of foil stamping or “tints” in team colors on the Traded issues. For example, Reds cards had red foil logos and typography while Dodgers cards featured blue. This added sparkle helped Traded sets stand out on the card rack at the local convenience store or pharmacy. Glossy team-colored borders were also utilized to accentuate certain parallels like the Reds’ “Red Hot” version.

The condition and survival rate of the relatively low-print 1990 Topps Traded cards make high-grade specimens quite valuable in the vintage baseball market today. Top rookies like Sandy Alomar Jr. and Gary Sheffield are especially coveted in pristine Mint condition. But for collectors, the true appeal remains the ability to chronicle notable transactions and roster changes from a memorable year in MLB history through the colorful on-card images and uniform photography. Three decades later, the 1990 Topps Traded set still serves as an interesting annual baseball trade period snapshot.

BASEBALL CARDS SERIES

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The history of baseball card series dates back to the late 1800s when the first baseball cards began to be produced as promotional inserts in cigarette and candy packages. Since then, hundreds of different baseball card series have been released by the major card companies chronicling the players, teams, and eras of America’s pastime.

Some of the earliest and most iconic baseball card series include:

Allen & Ginter (1889-1891) – Considered the first true baseball card set, these chromolithographic cards featured images of stars from the National League and American Association.

Old Judge (1889-1910) – Produced by the American Tobacco Company, Old Judge had the largest distribution of early tobacco era cards and featured some of the first rookie cards of legends like Cy Young and Honus Wagner.

T206 (1909-1911) – Known as the “Holy Grail” of sports cards, the immense rarity and star power of the T206 set, which included cards of Wagner, Ty Cobb, and Walter Johnson, have made them among the most valuable cards ever produced.

E90 (1911-1913) – Issued by the American Caramel Company, these cards had a unique vertical format and included rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Grover Cleveland Alexander and Edd Roush.

Following the demise of tobacco inserts in the 1950s, the modern baseball card collecting era began in the 1970s as new companies like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss signed exclusive contracts with MLB and the players association to produce annual card sets. Here are some of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball card series:

Topps (1952-present) – As the longest running baseball card producer, Topps has issued annual sets chronicling every MLB season since the early 1950s. Key early sets include the 1952 Topps, 1968 Topps, and 1975 Topps.

Topps Traded (1981-present) – Introduced in 1981, Topps Traded sets highlight star players and key trades from midseason. The 1984 Traded set, featuring a card of Nolan Ryan in an Astros uniform, is especially valuable.

Fleer (1981-1992, 2003-present) – Fleer broke Topps’ monopoly in 1981 and produced innovative sets into the early 1990s. The iconic 1983 Fleer set included rookie cards of Barry Bonds, Cal Ripken Jr., and Tony Gwynn.

Donruss (1981-1992) – Donruss joined Fleer in competing with Topps in the early 1980s. The 1987 Donruss set featured rookie cards of Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine.

Bowman (1948-1962, 1989-present) – Bowman issued some of the earliest post-WWII sets before relaunching in 1989. The 1952 Bowman set is especially coveted for Mickey Mantle’s rookie card.

Upper Deck (1989-present) – Founded in 1988, Upper Deck shook up the industry with premium card stock and design. The 1989 Upper Deck set, which included Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card, became one of the most valuable modern sets.

Leaf (1990-1995) – Leaf produced innovative sets with on-card autographs and memorabilia in the early 1990s before financial issues forced them out of the baseball card market.

Stadium Club (1991-present) – Known for sharp photography and premium finishes, Stadium Club has become a favorite among collectors, especially for the iconic 1991 and 1992 sets.

Finest (1994-present) – Introduced by Topps, Finest uses high-end materials and features some of the best photography in the hobby each year. The short printed parallels and autographs make the cards highly coveted.

Playoff (2003-present) – Panini’s Playoff set highlights key postseason performers each year with a playoff-themed design. The inserts and autographs have made the sets valuable for collectors.

In addition to the flagship annual releases, the modern hobby has seen numerous special sets released by the major companies commemorating milestones, focusing on a single team or player, highlighting rookie seasons, and more. Insert sets featuring autographs, memorabilia, and short printed parallel cards have also become a major part of the collecting landscape. Whether focusing on early tobacco issues or modern releases, collecting and studying baseball card series continues to be a fascinating way to learn about the history of the game. With new innovations and partnerships likely on the horizon, baseball cards remain one of the dominant forces in sports memorabilia and a driving force behind the nostalgia of America’s favorite pastime.