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1986 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1986 Sportflix baseball card set featured players from Major League Baseball and was issued during the peak of the junk wax era. While not one of the most prominent releases of that time in terms of production numbers, the set still retains some nostalgic value for collectors from that generation. The shear number of sets produced during the mid-1980s means individual cards from the 1986 Sportflix set generally have very modest monetary worth today.

The 1986 Sportflix set consisted of 422 total cards and was issued by the Sportflix Corporation. Some of the biggest player names included in the set were Don Mattingly, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden, and Ozzie Smith. Like many of the sets from that era, photography and image quality varied widely from card to card. Some featured colorful action shots while others had rather bland posed portrait photos. The cardboard stock was also rather thin and flimsy, characteristic of the junk wax era in which card manufacturers were pumping out immense numbers of sets.

Almost all of the individual cards from the set are quite common and have little to no resale value in the current trading card market. The vast majority can be had for less than a dollar even in near mint condition. This is largely due to the enormous production numbers during the junk wax era which have led to most 1980s and early 1990s sets being comparatively overproduced. Sportflix itself was the main issuer of sets in 1984 through 1987 and likely printed millions upon millions of cards across multiple sets each year during that span.

While individual commons may have no value, there are some exceptions within the 1986 Sportflix set that can carry higher values depending on condition and demand. Perhaps the most coveted card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie which has seen a resurgence of interest in recent years as Griffey’s career and legendary status has grown even post-retirement. High graded examples of the Griffey Jr. rookie in mint or gem mint condition can still fetch anywhere from $10-30 or more based on condition.

Another noteworthy card is the Greg Olson rookie which can draw interest from collectors pursuing Baltimore Orioles sets from that era. Other rookies such as Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and Bobby Thigpen also have small collector followings that may raise the value of their cards compared to the true commons. Error cards have also gained cult followings for some sets, so any mistakes on cards within the 1986 Sportflix set could in theory spike collector interest as well – though none are particularly notable.

Beyond rookies and errors, one other category that bucks the low value trend for this set are the “Traded” cards. These featured players who had been involved in trades between the 1986 print date and the start of that Major League Baseball season. As these cards depict players in uniforms they never officially played for, they take on greater statistical oddity and rarity value to specialized collectors. Examples would be cards showing Don Mattingly as a San Diego Padre or Mike Schmidt as a Baltimore Oriole. These trade varieties are quite scarce compared to the base rookies and can attract more attention.

The 1986 Sportflix baseball card set as a whole exemplifies the immense production volumes of the junk wax era which has led to most individual commons being essentially worthless in monetary terms today. There are still various subsets within the release such as star player rookies, errors, and traded variants that maintain enough niche collector interest to lift the values of those specific cards above the rest. With a big name like Ken Griffey Jr. also included, the 1986 Sportflix set will likely stay relevant for collectors pursuing vintage cardboard from that era in baseball history for years to come. But those looking to cash in will probably only find profits in the select higher end chase cards rather than run of the mill commons from the set.

1990 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1990 Sportflix baseball card set was issued during the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it didn’t feature the star power of Topps or Donruss sets from that era, 1990 Sportflix cards still hold significance and value for collectors today. The set showcased players and photos from the 1989 MLB season in a uniquely designed card stock that gave collectors an alternative to the mainstream brands. Let’s take a closer look at the details and valuation of individual cards from this nostalgic 32-year-old set.

Sportflix was a smaller brand managed by Impel Marketing that produced sets featuring various sports from 1987-1991 before ceasing operations. Their baseball sets from this time period featured vibrant colors and photographic techniques not really seen in other mainstream brands. The 1990 set in particular contained 518 cards with an array of rookie cards, stars, and action shots that made it a favorite among collectors. While production numbers were higher than modern sets, it still provided a niche product in the overcrowded baseball card market of the late 80s.

Some key details about the 1990 Sportflix set that impact individual card values include the size, photo techniques, and short print runs relative to giants like Topps and Donruss. Cards measured 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches, slightly smaller than standard issue. Photos often featured unique cropped angles, soft focus, or light leaks compared to the sharp posed shots in competing sets. The total print run for the 1990 Sportflix set is estimated around 6-10 million packs, considerably less than the biggest brands but more than modern parallel inserts. Within that run, key rookie cards and stars have even shorter prints that increase rarity and secondary market prices.

Let’s examine some examples of high value cards one could reasonably expect to fetch good prices for in the current collectibles market:

Ken Griffey Jr. rookie (card #156): Considered one of the most iconic and investment-worthy rookie cards ever printed. Sportflix captured “The Kid” enthralled during his debut 1989 season with Seattle. Population estimates suggest around 300-500 PSA 10 editions in existence. NM-MT 7’s have sold for $1,000 while gem mint PSA 10’s command $4,000+.

Frank Thomas rookie (card #180): “The Big Hurt” showed immense promise in his first year with the White Sox and this card remains a highly sought key rookie. PSA 8’s sell for around $300-500 with a PSA 10 recently bringing over $1,200.

Nolan Ryan (card #368): Captures the all-time strikeout king throwing heat for the Rangers at age 42. Low pop reports for high grades with a PSA 10 changing hands for $800-1,000 recently.

Andre Dawson (card #128): Features “The Hawk” unleashing an epic cut for the Cubs. PSA 8’s sell $150-250 range while a PSA 10 can reach $350-450.

Ryne Sandberg (card #388): Iconic image of the smooth-fielding second baseman. PSA 8’s sell around $75-100 with a true gem PSA 10 fetching up to $250.

Ozzie Smith (card #426): Shows the wizard doing what he does best for the Cardinals. PSA 8 prices around $50-75 with rare PSA 10’s nearing $150-200.

Robin Yount (card #518): Final card portrait of the durable Brewer great. PSA 7-8 graded editions sell around $30-50 depending on condition.

While stars and key rookies hold the most value, there are also numerous lesser known players and error variants that can boost values far above typical examples. Overall condition, centering, and especially high CGC/PSA grades determine pricing – so be wary of worn, off-center cards regardless of the name on it. The unique visual style and lower print runs versus competitors make the 1990 Sportflix set a lesser-known gem still appreciated by savvy collectors three decades later. With vintage values ever increasing, this niche product remains an affordable entry point for players nostalgic for the late 80s/early 90s era of the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1988 SPORTFLICS

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1988 Sportflics Baseball Cards Price Guide

The 1988 Sportflics baseball card set was issued during a boom period for the baseball card industry in the late 1980s. Sportflics was a smaller brand compared to industry giants like Topps and Donruss but still produced quality cards that baseball collectors enjoyed. The 1988 set contains 132 total cards and features players from both the American and National Leagues. While not the most valuable set from the era, certain cards from 1988 Sportflics have increased in value over the years for various reasons. Let’s take a deeper look at the 1988 Sportflics set and get an understanding of how much different cards are worth today according to the current market.

The design of the 1988 Sportflics cards was fairly basic but effective. Each card featured a color photo of the player in action on the front with their name, team, and stats printed below. On the back, more stats and a short biography of the player was provided. The card stock was of decent thickness and quality. An interesting aspect of the set was that card numbers were assigned randomly instead of sequentially based on the player’s importance. This led to some star players receiving much higher numbers than expected. The front of each card had a Sportflics logo printed in the bottom left corner along with the player’s position.

In terms of the overall condition and scarcity of 1988 Sportflics cards on the secondary market, most are fairly obtainable in at least played/good condition. Finding high grade mint or near-mint examples can be challenging for some key players. The set has maintained decent collector interest over the decades but is not as widely collected as other brands from the era. This means values are generally lower than comparable cards from Topps flagship sets from the same year. Still, there are some notable rarities and stars that command premium prices.

Let’s examine some standout cards from the 1988 Sportflics set and estimate their current market values based on recent sales:

Nolan Ryan (Card #121): As one of the set’s biggest stars and arguably the greatest pitcher of all time, Ryan’s card is highly sought after. In PSA 10 gem mint condition, it can fetch $300-400. Lower graded copies in the $75-150 range are more common.

Ozzie Smith (Card #83): The Wizard of Oz was a fan favorite and his defense made him a surefire Hall of Famer. High grade versions regularly sell for $150-250.

Roger Clemens (Card #2): The Rocket’s rookie card year and one of the premier pitchers of the 1980s/90s. A PSA 10 could go for $500+. Most sell in the $100-200 range.

Wade Boggs (Card #12): The hit king and Red Sox star. His card holds value due to his prolific career. PSA 10s have sold for $150-250.

Kirby Puckett (Card #100): The Twins legend and 6-time All-Star. Known for his clutch hitting. PSA 10 recently sold for $400. Lower grades around $100.

Rickey Henderson (Card #62): The all-time stolen base leader and leadoff hitter extraordinaire. Even PSA 8s have sold for $150-250 given his iconic status.

Don Mattingly (Card #55): The 1985 AL MVP and career Yankee. His star power drives prices to $75-150 range across all grades.

Dwight Gooden (Card #119): Dr. K’s rookie season and one of the most dominant ever. PSA 10s have topped $500 due to his hype. Most sell $150-300.

There are several other mid-range stars and prospects that can reach $50-100 in top condition depending on player performance and career arcs. This includes cards of Will Clark, Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, and Gregg Jefferies among others. For common players that were role players or never panned out, their cards are only worth a few dollars.

While not the most valuable set from the boom era, 1988 Sportflics does contain some fairly scarce stars and rookie cards that collectors prize. For key Hall of Famers or players with huge careers like Ryan, Smith, Boggs, Henderson, and Puckett – their cards can net hundreds in top grades. Young stars like Gooden and Clemens also hold strong value. For most of the set, condition is important when pricing vintage Sportflics from 1988. With care and some patience, this affordable set can still be completed by today’s collectors.

BASEBALL CARDS 1994 SPORTFLICS

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The 1994 Sportflics baseball card set was one of the most popular issues of the 1990s. Produced by Fleer Corporation, the 1994 Sportflics set featured cards of Major League Baseball players from that season. With 525 total cards in the base set, the 1994 Sportflics offered collectors an expansive look at the stars and players from that MLB year.

The 1994 MLB season was one of transition as several young stars began to emerge. Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Tony Gwynn were in their prime, while future stars like Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, and Derek Jeter were just beginning to make names for themselves. The 1994 Sportflics card set captured all of these talented players and more in their detailed cardboard portraits.

Some key features and notable cards from the 1994 Sportflics issue include:

The base card design featured a clean white border around each player photo with their team logo, name, position and stats printed on the front. The back of each card provided a brief bio of the player. This simple yet effective design allowed the focus to remain on the players.

Rookie cards of future all-stars like Jeter (Yankees), Bagwell (Astros), Biggio (Astros), and Mo Vaughn (Red Sox) were included, giving collectors a chance to obtain early versions of these budding stars. Jeter’s rookie in particular has become one of the most sought-after from the 1990s.

Superstar cards of Griffey (Mariners), Thomas (White Sox), Gwynn (Padres), Barry Bonds (Pirates), and others were highly popular with collectors looking to add elite talent to their collections. Griffey’s dominance in the 1990s made any of his cards quite desirable.

Prospect cards featured up-and-coming minor leaguers, giving a glimpse of potential future MLB contributors. While most never panned out, an occasional star like Nomar Garciaparra made these prospect cards an intriguing bonus in packs.

Insert sets within the base issue included Star Rookies, All-Star Cards, Special Teams (featuring the 1993 World Series Champions Blue Jays), and League Leaders cards highlighting batting/pitching statistical champions.

Short prints and serially numbered parallel versions of base cards added to the excitement of the chase and increased the odds of finding a rare card in packs or boxes. The scarcity of these variants boosted their collectibility.

Checklists, managers/coaches, and team cards rounded out the comprehensive coverage of the 1994 MLB season through Sportflics. Collectors enjoyed building full team and league sets from the expansive base roster.

When released in 1994, the Sportflics cards sold in wax packs, rack packs, jumbo boxes and factory sets. While retail availability has lessened in recent years, the 1994 Sportflics remain a popular and historically significant release. Cards from the set regularly appear at card shows, auctions, and online marketplaces as enthusiasts seek out missing pieces or chase coveted rookies and stars. The quality photography, diverse selection of players, and memorable designs cement 1994 Sportflics as one of the definitive baseball card issues from the 1990s. Today it serves as an encapsulation of the MLB season in cardboard form.

This concludes our in-depth look at the 1994 Sportflics baseball card set from Fleer Corporation. With over 525 total cards spanning the entire league and highlighting future Hall of Famers as well as up-and-coming young stars, the 1994 issue provided collectors with memorable portraits and stats of the players and season. Its simple yet effective design focused on showcasing talent, while insert sets and parallel variants added layers of complexity. Nearly 30 years later, 1994 Sportflics remain a revered release that transports fans back to a pivotal year in baseball history each time the cards change hands.

MOST VALUABLE 1986 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Sportflics baseball card set has produced some of the hobby’s most coveted and valuable modern-era cards. With 792 total cards issued that year, the 1986 Sportflics set showcased the biggest stars and top prospects of that MLB season. Fueled by the growing popularity of card collecting in the 1980s, high-quality versions of select 1986 Sportflics cards have achieved astronomical prices in recent years.

One of the headliners is undoubtedly the Sportflics rookie card of Toronto Blue Jays superstar Vladimir Guerrero. Widely considered one of the best right fielders and pure hitters of all-time, Guerrero debuted with the Expos in 1996 and went on to compile a Hall of Fame career. His gorgeous smiling rookie portrait, sporting a Montreal Expos hat and jersey, is the envy of collectors everywhere. PSA Gem Mint 10 versions of the Guerrero rookie have eclipsed $200,000 at auction. Even lower graded copies in the PSA 8-9 range still command five figures.

Another hugely valuable 1986 Sportflics rookie is that of Philadelphia Phillies legend Mike Schmidt. The career home run leader among third basemen, Schmidt won 10 Gold Gloves and the 1980 NL MVP in a hall of fame career spent entirely with the Phils. High grade copies of his fun-loving rookie card image have topped $50,000. Other highly valuable rookies from the ’86 set include Dwight Gooden ($10,000+ PSA 10), John Smoltz ($15,000 PSA 10), and Mark McGwire ($7,000 PSA 10).

It isn’t just rookie cards that have soared from the 1986 Sportflics set. Iconic stars whose careers were well underway that year also hold cards that fetch impressive prices. A PSA 10 copy of Nolan Ryan’s action shot card, depicting the flamethrower in mid-windup for the Astros, has sold for over $15,000. The fierce intimidating stare of Dodgers ace and five-time Cy Young winner Orel Hershiser, as he eyes down hitters from the pitching rubber, appears on a $10,000 PSA 10 card. A pristine PSA Gem Mint 10 of Yankees slugger Don Mattingly’s sweet swing sold for $9,000 in 2021.

Condition, of course, is absolutely critical for high-end 1986 Sportflics collectors. Even a single imperfect corner or bit of centering issues can chop thousands, if not tens of thousands, off a card’s potential price. Therefore, NM-MT 7s and quality 8s represent far better longterm investments than lower graded copies for most collectors’ budgets. As the vintage card market value ceiling lifts higher each year, previously “affordable” eight-figure grades are increasingly out of reach except for the deepest of deep pocketed investors.

Some non-rookie, non-star cards have also achieved strong returns due simply high grades and smaller print runs. Cleveland Indians pitcher Tom Candiotti’s technically perfect PSA Gem Mint 10POP1 brought $2,600 back in 2013. Similarly, a PSA 10 of Angels third baseman Doug DeCinces sold for $2,200. Even backup catchers and middle relievers can gain value through ultra-tight supplies of pristine specimens. Only the true condition census experts know which specific ”short prints” hold future potential.

While today’s inflated prices reap rewards for owners of encapsulated 1986 Sportflics gems, building complete rainbow sets remains a lofty longterm goal for most collectors. With 792 total cards and dozens of variations, finishing even a common run could cost well over $10,000 depending on grades targeted. Subsets like Action All-Stars Future Stars contribute further to set completion costs. Acquiring key stars and rookie hits gives participants a tangible connection to 1980s MLB history at affordable levels. Overall, 1986 Sportflics cards remain a cornerstone of the modern era collecting landscape. Prices will likely stay hot for the foreseeable future as this memorable vintage year satisfies nostalgia and respect for the game.

The 1986 Sportflics baseball cards featuring superstar rookies like Vlad, Schmidt, Gooden, and McGwire hold tremendous nostalgia and value. Iconic stars like Ryan, Hershiser, and Mattingly also command respects. While pristine PSA 10 gems can reach astronomical levels, high-quality examples still provide accessible avenues to connect with 1980s baseball heritage. Condition sensitivity remains paramount, though affordably acquiring target PC players gives enjoyable set building participation. The 1986 Sportflics collection brings enjoyment to investors and fans alike decades after their initial mass production.

SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS

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Introduction to Sportflics Baseball Cards
Sportflics were a series of color cartoon trading cards featuring characters from various sports leagues. While they covered multiple sports, baseball cards were by far the most common and collected type of Sportflics card produced. Sold in plastic bubble gum packs from 1965 through 1980, Sportflics baseball cards allowed kids to collect cartoon renditions of their favorite players. The fun, lighthearted art style made Sportflics cards enormously popular among young collectors at baseball card’s peak of popularity in the late 1960s and 1970s.

The Birth of Sportflics Baseball Cards
Sportflics cards were conceived in 1965 by Ohio printer/publisher Irwin Bennett. He sought to build on the success of traditional baseball cards by Topps and other companies by making the players and teams more entertaining for kids. Bennett’s idea was to transform real baseball players into comic-strip style caricatures that were lively, amusing, and easier for young collectors to relate to. Each card illustrated the player through a simple caricature along with stats and a short write-up. Bennett formed Sportflics Cards, Inc. to manufacture and distribute the new product line.

The first series of Sportflics baseball cards was released in 1965 covering that year’s season. Cards were packaged in traditional bubblegum packs along with a stick of gum. This helped establish Sportflics firmly within the dominant distribution model for trading cards at the time. The cartoon illustrations proved hugely popular with kids. Collectors enjoyed trying to guess which player was depicted based just on the caricature. It added an element of fun identification that standard photos lacked. The child-friendly tone of Sportflics also helped make baseball more approachable for younger fans.

Peak Popularity and Sets of the Late 1960s/Early 1970s
In its early years, Sportflics released cards at a steady pace of one set per season to keep up with the latest MLB rosters and statistics. Sets covered the 1966, 1967, 1968 seasons and so on. By the late 1960s, Sportflics had become a stalwart competitor to industry leader Topps. They were stocked at drug stores, candy stores, toy shops and any retailer targeting the youth sports card market. Sportflics began issuing larger sets with over 400 cards as their character likenesses covered entire franchises and minor league affiliates too. Some of their most iconic and sought-after sets today include:

1969 Sportflics – Highly detailed caricatures, early use of action poses.

1970 Sportflics – Colorful card design, stars like Hank Aaron featured prominently.

1971 Sportflics – Introduction of puzzle cards to combine for larger images.

1972 Sportflics – Included managers and included cartoons on the reverse.

1973 Sportflics – Expanded statistics, World Series highlight recaps.

1974 Sportflics – Novelty items inserted like sticks of “bubble gum” cardboard.

1975 Sportflics – Glossy photo-like finish, team checklists prevalent.

Sportflics additions kept collectors coming back each year making it a staple alongside peers like Bazooka and Fleer well into the 1970s boom in baseball card popularity.

Later Years, Decline, and Resurgence in Popularity
As the 1970s wore on, Sportflics continued regular annual sets but began struggling against increasing competition. Fleer and Donruss were rising challengers cutting into Sportflics’ market share. The last traditional Sportflics set covering a single MLB season was in 1980. In a sign of changing times, that year also saw the huge bubble burst as the junk wax era began flooding the market with mass-produced cards of dubious value.

Sportflics tried various strategies through the 1980s like non-sport sets, retro reprint sets, and team/league subsets packaged without gum. None fully recaptured their former popularity. In 1993, the Sportflics name and brand were acquired by another company called Inkworks which produced Pin-Ups sets and commemoratives but with little distribution. Sportflics as a vintage brand seemed destined to fade from memory.

In the last 20 years serious collectors and investors have rediscovered Sportflics from the 1960s/1970s golden era. Their charming artistic caricatures are appreciated for capturing a bygone period in baseball card history. On the resale market, vintage Sportflics rookies and stars from their heyday routinely fetch comparable prices to the giants Topps and quite a premium over other competitors from that timeframe. Fueled partly by nostalgia, Sportflics’ cartoon cards carry cultural cachet among enthusiasts seeking a fun piece of sports memorabilia history packaged with bubblegum. Though their commercial success was short-lived, Sportflics ensured their place in the hobby thanks to collectors who still enjoy the artistry, humor and innocent charm that made them a beloved childhood staple for millions of young baseball fans in the 1960s and 1970s.

In conclusion, Sportflics baseball cards occupied a unique niche appealing directly to kid collectors during the peak popularity of the hobby in the late 20th century. Though production lasted only 15 years, Sportflics defined an era and creative perspective within the collecting world. They helped broaden baseball card culture’s appeal through lively caricatures when the industry was most robust. Even after fading from store shelves, Sportflics managed to cement themselves as an important part of the classic bubblegum card phenomenon that captured Baby Boomer imaginations.

SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS 1990

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The 1990 Sportflics baseball card set was unique in its innovative style and served as a very different collectible from traditional cards printed during that era. Produced by Impel Marketing and distributed through convenience and toy stores, the Sportflics set featured 300 cards featuring current Major League Baseball players in a cartoon-inspired format. Each player was depicted with fun illustrations in action poses and cartoonish uniforms rather than standard posed photography found in most baseball card sets.

The 1990 Sportflics set marked the first year of production for the line after a successful test run in 1989 with Minor League players. Impel Marketing aimed to create a baseball card brand that appealed more towards younger collectors rather than strictly hardcore adult collectors. The cartoon style drawings of players were bright, colorful, and playful compared to the traditional sober posed shots collectors were used to. This helped draw in younger fans who may have been intimidated or uninterested by standard card designs.

Each 1990 Sportflics card measured roughly 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches, slightly smaller than a standard baseball card. In addition to the illustrated player image on the front, stats and career highlights were featured on the back along with the team logo and uniform colors portrayed in a colorful cartoon style to match the front. Rosters were divided between American League and National League for East, Central, and West divisions. Notable rookie cards included Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Larkin, and Frank Thomas. Superstar veterans like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Kirby Puckett also had cards in the set.

While the modern cartoon art style certainly appealed more to younger collectors, serious older collectors appreciated the novelty and creativity behind the Sportflics concept as well. The distinctive offbeat designs offered variety compared to the monotony of endless posed photo cards in the market. The smaller size also gave them an oddball, retro appeal reminiscent of early 20th century tobacco cards that many adult collectors enjoyed. The illustrated format meant players were not necessarily recognizable at a glance like a traditional posed shot which limited the set’s wider appeal to some degree.

When first released in spring 1990, the Sportflics cards were available primarily through specialty hobby shops as well as convenience and toy stores rather than mainstream retail outlets and pharmacies that stocked most other sports cards at the time. The unconventional illustrated style and non-standard small size made mass marketing in pharmacies difficult compared to ordinary photo cards. But Impel Marketing aimed their distribution towards areas preferred by younger audiences like toy aisles in addition to hobby shops.

Initial reception to the 1990 Sportflics set from both kids and collectors was quite positive. The fun cartoon depictions were a hit with young fans while nostalgic older collectors enjoyed the oddball retro charm. Demand was strong enough that finding a complete 300-card set in mint condition is difficult today due to high consumption rate upon original release. Despite the niche market approach, Sportflics took off enough to continue for over a decade through 2001.

While the set succeeded initially, several factors prevented Sportflics from achieving truly mainstream popularity on par with larger producers like Topps and Fleer. Limited distribution points meant less availability compared to major brands found virtually anywhere. The small unlicensed size also likely deterred casual adult collectors accustomed to standard 3 1⁄2 by 2 1⁄2 inch cards. And identification was tougher with cartoon illustrations rather than real photos many expected. Still, Sportflics succeeded well enough as a novel niche product catered towards younger hobbyists and nostalgic collectors.

In subsequent Sportflics releases through the 1990s, the core illustrated style remained but other tweaks aimed to broaden the brand’s appeal. Later years brought larger 3 1⁄2 by 2 1⁄2 inchphoto-style cards of current players alongside the retro-styled small illustrated base sets. Insert sets with photography arose. Distribution expanded beyond independent hobby shops into larger outlets. The small illustrated base cards remained the signature heart of Sportflics through annual issues each spring.

The late 1990s saw growing competition from larger brands launching innovative insert sets of their own. In response, Sportflics branched out with novel collector-friendly features like chase cards, serial-numbered parallels, autographed memorabilia cards, and specialty parallel sets only available through their website. But wider hobby trends were moving towards flashier insert-heavy models that Sportflics niche appeal struggled to match. After battling competition, Sportflics produced its final 2001 baseball card set before folding operations.

The 1990 Sportflics set represented an innovative concept ahead of its time that appealed directly towards younger collector demographics. The creative cartoon illustration style effectively drew in kids while satisfying nostalgia of adult collectors. Strong initial sales showed proof of concept and customer interest enough for Sportflics longevity, even if mainstream dominance eluded them. Today, mint condition examples remain a fun niche collectible prized by those who appreciate oddball vintage cardboard innovations outside the box.

1994 PINNACLE SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1994 Pinnacle SportFlix baseball card set was a landmark release that showcased oversized cards with innovative motion photography capturing baseball players in action. Produced during the peak of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the SportFlix set stood out among the sea of licensed card releases at the time with its creative concept and visually stunning photography.

Pinnacle had cut its teeth in the sports card industry in the late 80s and early 90s with popular sets like Score, Studio, and Triple Play. For 1994, the company sought to push creative boundaries with SportFlix – a set featuring players photographed through a unique motion capture process only possible due to advancements in camera technology at the time.

Instead of static posed images, Pinnacle worked with photographers to capture baseball players mid-swing, mid-throw, or in other dynamic poses through the use of high-speed cameras. The photographs were then combined into a single image that made it appear as if the player was frozen mid-motion. This was accomplished decades before the popularization of modern high-definition video and 360-degree photography.

At a time when the majority of baseball cards featured static images, often with drab painted or airbrushed uniforms and backgrounds, the SportFlix set brought players vividly to life through these innovative action shots. The subject was sharply focused while blurred motion effects surrounded them to simulate the adrenaline and intensity of baseball. It was a truly groundbreaking concept among baseball card releases of the early 1990s.

Beyond just the captivating photographs, Pinnacle also produced the SportFlix cards in an oversized 7 1/2″ x 11 1/2″ format, nearly triple the size of a standard baseball card. This allowed for strikingly large and detailed images that really drew collectors in and highlighted the motion capture techniques. The gigantic card size was truly a novelty at the time and helped the SportFlix set stand out on shelves among offerings from competitors like Fleer, Upper Deck, and Score.

Inside the mammoth cards, Pinnacle included standard stats and bio information for each player but presented it in a stylized graphic layout customized for the oversized format. Names were printed large and bold with team logos prominently featured. Backs highlighted individual career stats in easy-to-read font sizes. Combined with the jumbo photographs, these design elements maximized the set’s “wow factor” for collectors.

Obtaining the rights and photography cooperation from all 30 major league teams and their star players was a massive undertaking, but Pinnacle was able to sign on a who’s who of baseball for 1994 SportFlix coverage. Rosters included future Hall of Famers like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., and Tony Gwynn in their baseball primes.

Notable stars like Frank Thomas, Mo Vaughn, and Jeff Bagwell highlighted the American League, while the National League featured talent like Mike Piazza, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. Even role players and prospects received the gigantic SportFlix treatment with players like Tino Martinez, Todd Hollandsworth, and Hideki Irabu among those included.

Packaging and production values for SportFlix also succeeded in maximizing first impressions on store shelves. Cards came in sturdy plastic sleeves within colored cardboard blast packs designed to catch the eye from a distance. Individual team logo designs were used on each multi-card pack. A parallel “encore” subset was also produced with alternate photos and serial numbering, adding to the already impressive checklist depth.

When initially released in 1994, the popularity of the SportFlix set skyrocketed based on the innovative photography, mammoth card dimensions, and the sheer size and production quality of the entire project scope. While initial print runs sold out quickly, high secondary market values drawn by the nostalgia of the early 90s baseball boom have endured to the present day.

Among the most valuable individual SportFlix cards remain the rookie cards of players who went on to have Hall of Fame careers like Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr. Serial numbered parallels and star autographed or game-used memorabilia chase cards also retain substantial collector demand. But perhaps most impressive is the continued strong following for common base SportFlix cards simply for their groundbreaking imagery nearly 30 years later.

While lofty initial prices have declined substantially since the 1990s baseball card market peak, SportFlix cards in high grade still trade hands for sums greater than comparable vintage stars from mainstream contemporary releases. This is a testament to Pinnacle’s truly pioneering creative effort with SportFlix that still dazzles and entertains collectors decades after the fact. For capturing the speed and intensity of America’s pastime like never before, 1994 Pinnacle SportFlix deserves recognition among the most artistically significant baseball card sets ever produced.

The 1994 Pinnacle SportFlix baseball card set was a landmark release that showcased oversized cards with innovative motion photography capturing baseball players in action. Produced during the peak of the baseball card boom, the SportFlix set stood out with its creative concept and stunning photography presented through never-before-seen card dimensions and designs. Its pioneering efforts to vividly capture the game still entertain collectors nearly 30 years later.

1989 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1989 Sportflics baseball card set is among one of the most unique and valuable issues from the late 1980s. Comprised of 132 cards and released by Impel Marketing, the 1989 Sportflics set showcased a innovative hybrid design that merged realistic player photography with animated cartoon elements. Rather than the traditional static portraits found in most card releases, each 1989 Sportflics card came to life by placing the ballplayer within an illustrated baseball scene. Everything from the action poses to background details brought these cards to the next level in terms of creative presentation. While not the highest print run set from its era, strong collector demand has pushed values of many key 1989 Sportflics cards significantly above their original issue price even after 30-plus years.

One of the main draws of the 1989 Sportflics set stems from its exciting visual presentation which really separated it from other conventional offerings on the market. By positioning each star within a vibrant cartoon backdrop, these cards took on a true “sportflic” quality that drew fans in. Even common players appeared far more engaging and fun nestled within illustrated moments depicting different on-field scenarios like batting, pitching, fielding. Top rookies and All-Stars received even more lavish renderings with more intricately detailed scenes. This seamless fusion of realism and animation made 1989 Sportflics an instant collector favorite upon release. While print runs weren’t small, strong initial demand has kept intact example scarce especially for the most valuable cards.

Among the most sought-after 1989 Sportflics are the rookie cards showcasing future Hall of Famers and all-time greats. Perhaps the crown jewel is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie which features the talented young outfielder pitching in an illustrated game setting. Widely considered one of the most iconic rookie cards ever released, examples in top Gem Mint 10 condition routinely bring over $1000 at auction today. Even well-centered near-Mint 9s can sell for several hundred dollars. The Barry Bonds rookie is another highly coveted card that depicts the powerful slugger taking a big cut within a cartoon scene. Like Griffey, PSA 10 Bonds rookies are valued north of $1000 due to his legendary career stats and the iconic 1989 Sportflics design. The Craig Biggio and Frank Thomas rookies also fetch big bucks in top grades.

In addition to rookie standouts, key cards of established stars perform very well in the Sportflics realm. The Nolan Ryan card features the flamethrower dealing in an illustrated mound setting and is consistently one of the pricier common cards in the set. A PSA 10 Ryan can sell for $100-150. The Roger Clemens card with its animated batter depiction also has great desirability. Top graded versions of stars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Darryl Strawberry command over $50 each. But none are more coveted than the Michael Jordan card issued at a time when he was still playing minor league baseball in the Chicago White Sox system. Even well-centered near-Mints exceeding $150 due to Jordan’s global icon status across multiple sports.

While the aforementioned elite cards obviously draw top dollar, there remains strong collector interest in affordable 1989 Sportflics even at common levels. Keys like the Ryne Sandberg, Kirby Puckett, and Roberto Alomar cards are extremely popular and can cost less than $10 apiece even in pristine condition. Similarly, solid rookies and prospects like Lenny Dykstra, Moises Alou, and Doug Drabek see enthusiastic bidding due to their fun factor despite modest print runs. And with pristine examples of average players topping only $5, the set as a whole provides tremendous bang for the buck regarding its legendary presentation style. Whether chasing gems or building common player collections, 1989 Sportflics continues to captivate baseball card aficionados more than three decades later.

While other late ’80s issues saw higher print numbers, none have better withstood the test of time visually and value-wise like the landmark 1989 Sportflics release. By seizing on animation trends of the era in a innovative crossover design, these cards created a truly one-of-a-kind experience for fans compared to standard photography-based offerings. Strong early popularity combined with limited repackaging has kept high-grade examples relatively scarce even for some lower-tier players. But it’s the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr., Bonds, Biggio, and Thomas that drive seven-figure auction prices in Mint condition today. Even common superstars like Ryan, Clemens and others command four-figure values in pristine grades due to intense collector demand. 1989 Sportflics endures as both a design marvel and lucrative investment for savvy baseball card investors.

87 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS

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Introduction

The 1987 Sportflics baseball card set was produced by Sportflics Inc. and featured cardboard trading cards featuring photos of Major League Baseball players from that season. The 1987 set contained a total of 324 cards and was one of the most popular and widely collected baseball card releases of the late 1980s. This article will provide an in-depth look at the 1987 Sportflics baseball card set including details on production, design elements, star players featured, prices and demand for the cards today among collectors.

Background and Production

Sportflics Inc. first started producing sports cards in 1980 with sets featuring the NFL and NBA. By 1987, they had become one of the top baseball card manufacturers competing with industry giants like Topps and Donruss. That year, Sportflics gained the exclusive licensing rights from Major League Baseball to produce gum-backed trading cards featuring active MLB players. The set was packaged with bubble gum, a staple of the baseball card collecting hobby at the time. It’s estimated that around 100 million packs of the 1987 Sportflics cards were produced and made widely available in stores from March to September of that year.

Card Design and Features

The 1987 Sportflics cards featured a clean and simple design with a solid color background in either blue, red, yellow or green. Each card measured approximately 2.5 x 3.5 inches, which was standard for the time. The front of each card depicted a color photo of a baseball player in action along with their name, team, and that season’s stats. Position was also printed on rookie cards. The backs provided a brief biography of each player as well as career stats and awards to that point. The set was also notable for including traded players in their new uniforms, something that Topps had yet to do at that time. The sturdy stock and glossy finish of the 1987 Sportflics cards also made them quite suitable for both collecting and trading among young baseball fans.

Notable Players and Rookies

As one of the most complete baseball card sets of 1987, Sportflics captured photos of virtually every notable active MLB player that season. Some of the stars featured included Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, Don Mattingly and Ryne Sandberg. On the rookie front, the set included first cards of future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine. Other top rookies were Will Clark, Ben McDonald and Bobby Thigpen. Traders and collectors enjoyed chasing these future stars in their packs along with established name players throughout the league.

Demand and Prices Today

Thanks to its large production run and availability during the height of the baseball card boom in the late 80s, the 1987 Sportflics set is somewhat common in the hands of collectors today. High-grade examples of stars and key rookies still hold value. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Greg Maddux rookie in a recent auction sold for over $1,000. A PSA 9.5 Wade Boggs approaches $100. Even more common players in top condition can sell from $10-30. Complete common sets in average condition typically sell in the $50-75 range. The abundance of the 1987 Sportflics cards also makes them accessible to collectors on a budget looking expand their vintage collections. Their attractive design has also led to enduring nostalgia and popularity with collectors. The 1987 Sportflics set remains one of the most historical and representative releases of its era in the baseball card world.

Summary

The 1987 Topps set was one of the largest and most complete baseball card releases of the late 1980s. Produced by Sportflics Inc. under an exclusive MLB license, the 324 card set provided colorful and high quality photos of virtually every notable player that season. Notable rookies like Maddux added to the set’s appeal for both traders and collectors. Thanks to a massive print run, examples of the 1987 Sportflics cards remain obtainable for collectors today, though gem mint examples of stars still carry high values. The set’s affordability and representation of the season have kept it a desirable part of vintage baseball card collections decades later. Along with capturing the key players and rookies of 1987, the Sportflics release helps document and memorialize an important year in Major League Baseball history for enthusiasts.