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MOST VALUABLE 1983 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1983 Topps Traded set is one of the more sought after and valuable vintage baseball card releases in the hobby. With only 200 cards in the base set compared to other yearly Topps releases that often had over 700 cards, the Traded set featured a higher number of star players and more valuable rookie cards. Several factors contributed to making certain 1983 Topps Traded cards especially coveted and expensive among collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable cards from this classic set.

Perhaps the most well-known and valuable card from 1983 Topps Traded is the Gary Sheffield rookie card. As one of the set’s highest profile rookie cards, the Sheffield has always demanded a premium price. Even in worn condition without grade, raw Sheffield rookies can sell for well over $1000. Getting one in near mint to gem mint condition certified by a grading service like PSA or BGS exponentially increases the value. A PSA 10 gem mint Sheffield rookie has sold at auction for over $50,000, making it arguably the most valuable card from the set.

Another hugely valuable rookie card is the Kirby Puckett found only in the Traded set. Puckett went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Minnesota Twins and his popularity has kept demand for his rookie high. Even low grade Puckett rookies sell for thousands, with a PSA 10 example changing hands for well over $20,000. The scarcity and star power of the Puckett rookie make it one of the crown jewels of the ’83 Traded collection.

Dwight Gooden’s rookie card is also found exclusively in the Traded set. Gooden was one of the most hyped young pitching prospects of all-time and with his starring role for the 1985 World Champion Mets, his cardboard became very hot property. Already a popular card years ago before PSA started regularly grading cards, a PSA 10 Gooden rookie is worth in the ballpark of $15,000-$20,000 today. Even well-worn low grade versions still pull in multiple thousands.

Darryl Strawberry debuted in the majors in 1983 and has another highly valuable rookie in the Traded set. While not quite at the level of Gooden or Puckett, Strawberry rookie cards still fetch four figures even in low grades due to his stardom with the Mets. A PSA 10 could be valued around $7,000-$10,000. The success of both the Mets rookie class of ’83 and ’84 no doubt contributed to the long-term fan interest and collecting demand for these Traded set cards.

The rookies so far discussed were all American League players debuting in ’83. But the National League also had some impact rookies found only in Topps Traded. One of those is Ryne Sandberg, who had a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Chicago Cubs. Considered one of the greatest second basemen ever, the demand keeps his rookie card prices strong. PSA 10 examples have sold in the $6,000 range in recent years. St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Joaquin Andujar likewise has a valuable rookie in the Traded release due to his excellence mainly in the 1980s. High grade Andujar rookie cards reach into the thousands.

Some non-rookie cards from the ’83 Topps Traded set have also grown substantially in value. For example, any card featuring superstar slugger Mike Schmidt is bound to hold collector interest. A PSA 10 Schmidt card from the Traded set reportedly sold for over $3,500. Another Philadelphia star, Pete Rose, naturally has fans seeking his Traded issue as well. A pristine PSA 10 Rose has changed hands for upwards of $2,000.

There’s no doubting the star power and hall of fame caliber players featured extensively in the 1983 Topps Traded release. While the entire set is collectible and holds solid value, certain standout rookie cards like Sheffield, Puckett, Gooden, and others truly rise above as the true blue chip cards. Even in lower grades, they rarely sell for under $1000. For the avid collector, finding and owning these iconic rookies in gem mint condition through a service like PSA is the ultimate prize a 1983 Traded set can provide. It’s no wonder this set remains a staple in the world of baseball card history and investing.

1991 TOPPS BASEBALL PICTURE CARDS TRADED SERIES

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The 1991 Topps Baseball Picture Cards Traded Series was one of the most popular and highly sought after sets from the early 1990s. The Traded set was issued as a companion to Topps’ flagship baseball card release and featured players who had been traded to new teams after the regular season cards were already in production. With trades and free agent signings constantly reshaping rosters during the offseason, the Traded set provided collectors an updated look at where players would be starting the new season.

Some key aspects that made the 1991 Topps Traded set stand out included the large number of high profile players included, innovative photo variations, and the chase of finding elusive short printed cards. A total of 96 cards made up the 1991 Topps Traded set with photography showing the players in the uniforms of their new clubs. Many familiar faces switched teams that offseason, resulting in some very memorable traded cards.

Perhaps the most iconic traded card from the 1991 set was Nolan Ryan’s move from the Texas Rangers to the Houston Astros. At age 44, Ryan was still one of the most dominating pitchers in baseball and helped draw interest in the Astros. His traded card showcased Ryan in the iconic Astros rainbow stripes jersey, a highly sought after image for collectors. Other notable trades included Bobby Bonilla going from the Pirates to the Mets, Willie Randolph joining the Dodgers after many years with the Mets, and Joe Carter heading to Toronto after time with the Padres and Indians.

In addition to standard vertical photo design, Topps issued innovative horizontal photo variants for 15 of the cards. These unique sideways images stood out amongst the traditional set. Players like Mitch Williams for the Rangers, Dave Martinez for the Expos, and Bob McClure for the A’s had special horizontal variations. The photo variations added an extra layer of complexity for collectors trying to complete the entire set. With no indication on the back which cards had alternate photos, collectors had to be diligent to find all the variations.

Perhaps the biggest chase for collectors were the elusive short printed cards. Rumors circulated about which cards had lower print runs to create scarcity. Some suspected short prints included players like Eric Davis after his trade to Cincinnati from the Reds, John Kruk going from the Phillies to the Padres, and Jeff Reardon pitching for the Red Sox after time with the Twins. The possibility of discovering one of the harder to find short printed traded cards kept collectors on high alert when searching packs.

The photography and production quality of the 1991 Topps Traded set was top notch. Photos showed the players in crisp, colorful uniforms against professional photographic backdrops. Topps’ attention to detail was evident down to making sure uniform numbers matched the players’ new clubs. The creative horizontal variants and allure of short printed chase cards added layers of complexity that extended the excitement of the set beyond a standard card release.

In the following years, Topps would continue issuing Traded sets but none achieved the same popularity and nostalgia as the iconic 1991 version. The large number of impactful player moves combined with innovative photo variations made it a truly standout release. Prices for high-end conditioned versions of cards like Nolan Ryan’s Astros card or the elusive short prints command premium prices from collectors to this day. The 1991 Topps Traded set still stands as one of the most beloved in the entire history of the hobby. Its memorable photography capturing where stars would be playing in the new season, alongside innovative variants, cemented its place as a true classic.

1989 TOPPS BASEBALL PICTURE CARDS TRADED SERIES

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The 1989 Topps Baseball Picture Cards Traded Series marked the 28th edition of Topps’ popular traded set focusing on star players from that season. The traded set was inserted one per pack of the main 1989 Topps baseball card series and contained cards not found in the standard release, making them highly collectible among fans.

That 1989 season would be memorable for several key events and performances. The Oakland A’s, led by manager Tony La Russa, won the World Series over the San Francisco Giants. Rickey Henderson set a new single season stolen base record with 126 thefts for the A’s. Roger Clemens established a new strikeout record with 20+ K games in a season for the Boston Red Sox. Ken Griffey Jr. and Barry Bonds both broke into the big leagues that year as well.

The 1989 Topps Traded set captured many of the biggest names and performances from that season through 36 unique cardboard portraits. Some of the key cards included in the set were:

Barry Bonds, Pittsburgh Pirates: As a rookie, Bonds hit .289 with 17 home runs and 53 RBI. He was one of the young stars to watch going forward.

Roger Clemens, Boston Red Sox: In addition to his record-setting season, Clemens’ intimidating stare made him one of the faces of the league.

Rickey Henderson, Oakland Athletics: As the new stolen base king, Henderson’s cunning smile conveyed his flair on the basepaths.

Ken Griffey Jr., Seattle Mariners: At just 19 years old, Griffey Jr. flashed prodigious talent by hitting .284 with 16 home runs in his debut campaign.

Ozzie Smith, St. Louis Cardinals: As one of the best defensive shortstops ever, “The Wizard” made diving stops look routine in St. Louis.

Nolan Ryan, Texas Rangers: Even at 42 years old, “The Ryan Express” could still hit triple digits on the radar gun for Texas.

Kirby Puckett, Minnesota Twins: Grinning ear to ear, Puckett provided optimism as the Twins’ young star center fielder.

The visual storytelling of each card through the player photos made the Traded set very engaging for collectors. The scarcity factor of only one card per pack also created excitement each time a traded card was uncovered.

Beyond the star players, the set also included role players and up-and-comers who could become important cogs on their teams. Examples included Andy Van Slyke for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Lance Parrish of the Detroit Tigers, and Mark McGwire in his second season with the Oakland A’s.

In addition to Topps’ standard card design format from the main set, the traded cards stood out with a blue banner across the bottom displaying the player’s team and position. The Traded logo in the bottom right corner further signified the cards’ premium status.

On the reverse side, each card featured individual player stats from 1988 as well as a short personal biography. This provided collectors additional information and context beyond just the captivating front-facing photos.

When it was released in early 1989, the Topps Traded set retailed for $1.25 per pack. As the players captured inside went on to perform that season, many of the cards increased rapidly in value on the secondary market. Ken Griffey Jr’s card in particular is one of the most coveted and expensive from the set today owing to his iconic playing career.

For baseball card enthusiasts and historians, the 1989 Topps Traded set stands as an iconic snapshot of that memorable season. Featuring many future Hall of Famers like Bonds, Clemens, and Smith in addition to rookie standouts, the cards provide a unique time capsule almost three decades later. They remain a highly collected parallel release that complemented Topps’ standard flagship set very well.

The 1989 Topps Baseball Picture Cards Traded Series effectively captured the biggest names and performances during a pivotal year for Major League Baseball. Through creative card designs and compelling front-facing photography, it showcased the league’s emerging talents and established stars in a premium, highly coveted format for collectors. Even over 30 years later, the set retains its nostalgic appeal and has grown in stature as a memorable piece of sports card history from the late 1980s era.

1986 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1986 Topps Traded set is highly sought after by collectors for its memorable rookie cards and stars changing teams at their prime. Professionally graded cards from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) command strong prices in the current market. This iconic set commemorated memorable midseason player trades and free agent signings from 1985.

Some key details – The 1986 Topps Traded set has 96 cards total and was produced as an update to the main 1986 Topps set issued earlier that year. Like other “traded” sets from the 1980s, it focused on capturing the excitement of players switching uniforms via trade or free agency during the previous season. Top rookie cards in the set include Roger Clemens’ debut with the Boston Red Sox and Barry Bonds’ first card as a Pittsburgh Pirate.

Star players depicted in new uniforms after high-profile transactions include Nolan Ryan switching from the Houston Astros to the Texas Rangers, Andre Dawson moving from the Chicago Cubs to the Boston Red Sox, and Rickey Henderson joining the New York Mets after leaving Oakland. The horizontal design breaks from the standard Topps vertical portrait style of the era. Bold colors and team crests across the front make these cards instantly recognizable as commemorating significant on-field changes.

When PSA began third-party authentication and grading of sports cards in the early 1990s, the 1986 Topps Traded set immediately drew collector interest due to its iconic rookie cards and star power. Submitting cards to PSA allows collectors and dealers to verify authenticity, capture condition details, and potentially unlock premium value – especially for high-grade examples eligible for PSA’s biggest population report labels like Gem Mint 10.

Clemens’ rookie fetched over $10,000 in a PSA 9 back in 2009 and has since cracked the $50,000 mark for top-graded specimens. The Barry Bonds rookie has followed a similar ascent past five figures for PSA 9s and beyond $25,000 for PSA 10s due to his all-time single season home run record in 2001. Other highly sought cards rise considerably in price once crossing the PSA 9 threshold.

Rickey Henderson in a Mets uniform remains over $1,000 PSA 9 and climbing past $3,000 in Gem Mint 10. Andre Dawson’s Red Sox issue nears $1,000 in PSA 9 as well. Even role players spike upwards of $100-200 in high PSA grades due to this set’s enduring collectors market. While common PSA 8 or lower grades trade more affordably, that premium holds for quality examples across the entire 96-card roster.

The 1986 Topps Traded set endures as one of the most recognizable traded releases of the 1980s. Its memorable rookie cards and accurate depictions of star players in new uniforms captured immediate attention from collectors at the time. Sophisticated grading through PSA since the 1990s introduction of third-party authentication allows discerning fans to verify legitimate examples while achieving higher prices and universal trust that comes with industry-leading certification labels. Whether chasing iconic rookies or completing rainbow PSA 10 sets, the 1986 Topps Traded remains a pinnacle release for investment-minded sports card collectors.

While booming popularity has raised prices on coveted PSA 9+ specimens from this set, overall demand shows little sign of slowing as enthusiastic collectors continue entering the lucrative hobby. No other vintage release so colorfully commemorates midseason baseball drama through memorable player trades and debuts. With an intriguing mix of stars, prospects, and cult followings, professionally graded 1986 Topps Traded cards seem poised to retain long-term value and appreciation potential within the competitive sports card marketplace.

MOST VALUABLE 1985 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1985 Topps Traded baseball card set is considered one of the most coveted issues in the entire hobby. With only 240 total cards released as an update set near the end of the 1984 season, the 1985 Topps Traded cards feature many of baseball’s biggest stars and contains several truly valuable pieces that attract intense interest from collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable cards from this classic 1980s release.

One of the true holy grails from 1985 Topps Traded is the Kirby Puckett rookie card. As arguably the greatest Minnesota Twins player of all-time, Puckett went on to become a six-time All-Star and helped lead the Twins to World Series victories in 1987 and 1991. His iconic smile and elite batting prowess made him extremely popular. His rookie card, while not featuring any flashy logos, autographs, or serial numbers, commands big money purely due to his legendary playing career and the card’s scarcity. In pristine mint condition, graded and encapsulated MINT 9 or MINT 10 status by professional grading companies like PSA or BGS, Puckett’s rookie routinely sells for well over $10,000 and could reach up to $25,000 or more in a strong market. Even in lower EX-MT 6 or 7 condition, it still trades hands for $1,000 to $3,000.

Another big star of the 1980s featured prominently in the 1985 Topps Traded set is Dwight Gooden. As a member of the New York Mets dynasty that won the 1986 World Series, “Doc” Gooden possessed a once-in-a-generation combination of blazing fastballs and a knee-buckling curveball. He would go on to win the 1985 NL Cy Young award. While Gooden’s rookie card was in the much larger 1984 Topps base set, his Traded card still holds tremendous value. A PSA 10 Gooden can reach $3,000-$5,000 and even a lower graded copy still sells for $500-$1,000 depending on condition. The fact this card captures Gooden during his absolute physical prime in 1984 adds to its appeal.

Two huge Los Angeles Dodgers appear in the 1985 Topps Traded set that have incredible value – Fernando Valenzuela and Orel Hershiser. “Fernandomania” had taken the country by storm in 1981 as Valenzuela won the NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards. His star had faded slightly by 1985 due to injuries. Still, his Traded card showing him in a Dodgers uniform is hugely sought after by collectors. A PSA 10 recently sold for over $8,000. Even a PSA 8 trades hands for $800 to $1,500 based on recent eBay sales. Contemporaneously, Orel Hershiser’s Traded card holds major significance because it features him just before his record-setting 59 consecutive scoreless innings during the 1988 season en route to a World Series title. In Gem Mint condition, a PSA 10 sold in February 2022 for an incredible $11,000, a new record for the issue.

Beyond individual superstars, error cards and manufacturing variations add tremendous value and collector interest in the 1985 Topps Traded set. The most famous is the “Short Print” Fernando Valenzuela card, which is missing the small “Traded” designation found in the normal issue. This subtle difference makes the card much rarer among the roughly 30 released. PSA 10 examples have reached $25,000 and a PSA 9 brought $12,000. The “Photo Variation” Ozzie Smith card is also very rare, depicting Smith with a different photo than the standard issue. A PSA 9 of this variation sold in November 2021 for $3,600. There are also “Blank Back” misprints where the normal card statistics are missing. Thanks to these intriguing anomalies, even lower tier stars from 1985 can carry four-figure values in top condition if they showcase an error.

While other 1980s card sets may contain higher print runs or more promotional premiums, the 1985 Topps Traded cards hold such mystique and collector demand precisely because of their small production size and ability to capture true icons of the era like Puckett, Gooden, Valenzuela and Hershiser. Condition is king, with the record prices listed above all focusing on PSA 10 Mint gems. But for set builders and those enthralled by the players, managers, and executives featured over three decades ago, acquiring any copy of these elusive cardboard treasures remains a hugely rewarding venture regardless of grade. The 1985 Topps Traded release firmly stands the test of time as one of the true crème de la crème offerings in the entire world of sports memorabilia collecting.

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TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1990 TRADED SET

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The 1990 Topps Baseball Card Traded Set was the 26th edition of Topps’ annual traded set release. As with previous years, it featured career highlights, stats and information on many of baseball’s top stars from that season. Though not as iconic or valuable as some of the older 1950s/60s sets, the 1990 traded set provided a fun snapshot of the sport during that timeframe and included several notable rookie cards that are still popular with collectors today.

Released in the fall of 1990, the set covered the recently concluded 1990 MLB season that saw the Cincinnati Reds defeat the Oakland Athletics in the World Series. That 1990 season was the final year for the New York Mets at Shea Stadium before they moved to Citi Field in 2009. It was also the last season for stars like Andre Dawson, the “Hawk”, who was featured in the set in his Chicago Cubs uniform.

The design of the 1990 Topps Traded set paid homage to the classic Topps styles of the past with a clean white border surrounding each player photo. Statistics like career batting average, home runs and RBIs were printed neatly along the bottom. What set the traded version apart from the base set was the inclusion of career highlights written in the blank space above the photo. Little tidbits about notable plays, awards and achievements added interesting context beyond just the stats.

Some of the biggest names featured in the set included Reds star Eric Davis, who had a monster 1990 season en route to Cincinnati’s World Series title. Kirby Puckett of the Minnesota Twins was in the set after another All-Star campaign. Fellow Twin Chili Davis also landed a spot after hitting 31 home runs that year. Future Hall of Famer Wade Boggs earned inclusion following yet another strong year with Boston.

Rookies who debuted in 1990 and received cards in the traded set included future stars like Billy Ripken (Baltimore), Kevin Maas (New York Yankees), Gregg Jefferies (New York Mets) and Mark Grace (Chicago Cubs). While most didn’t pan out as superstars, their rookie cards are still desirable pieces for team and player collectors decades later.

The 1990 Topps Traded Set had a distinctive look with a red border on the front and statistics printed in white along one side. Each wax pack contained 12 cards and retailed for $1, same as the base 1990 issues. The checklist totalled 60 player cards without any manager, coach or team cards mixed in. Unlike modern parallels, insert sets and autographs, it was a straight forward, traditionally designed set focused only on key MLB performers.

With no serial numbers, autographs or rare parallel variations, the chase for raw money cards is nonexistent in the 1990 Topps Traded compared to newer releases. It does contain several notable rookie cards that hold value, such as Kenny Lofton, Scott Cooper and Jeff Kent. Well-centered, high-grade examples of star cards like Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan and Rickey Henderson can still attract interest from collectors.

The set also immortalized the final baseball cards of players like Andre Dawson and Mike Scott, who both retired after 1990. As one of the last cigarette-sponsored issues, the iconic “Topps…Baseball Cards” slogan is boldly displayed across several wrappers included to remind collectors of the vintage era it harkened back to. For nostalgia purposes alone, the 1990 Topps Traded set resonates strongly with many older collectors and fans of the late 80s/early 90s players it featured.

While not as iconic as those 1960s Mickey Mantle rookie sets or even the classic 1987 Traded issue, the 1990 Topps Baseball Card Traded Set still provides a fun window into the sport over 30 years ago. Collectors appreciate it for encapsulating a single MLB season with players both superstar and unknown alike. Strong condition examples of star hits or desirable rookie cards prove this set hasn’t been forgotten and remains a valued part of the Topps Traded collection for those who enjoyed the baseball card hobby during that era.

While not priced as highly as vintage 1950s issues, the 1990 Topps Baseball Card Traded Set endures as an accessible nostalgia piece showcasing the stars and prospects of three decades ago. Collectors still enjoy searching through wax packs today hoping to uncover a rookie gem ofPast or present among the 60 cardboard treasures from baseball’s summer of 1990. As one of the last “vintage style” traded issues, it represents the twilight of that tobacco-era design before modern chrome, parallels and serial numbered inserts took over the collecting landscape.

1985 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 1985 Topps Traded Baseball card set was released to much fanfare in the summer of 1985. Unlike the main Topps series released earlier that year, the Traded set focused exclusively on players who had been involved in trades or other transactions since the start of the 1985 season. This made for a very unique and specialized subset that appealed greatly to collectors interested in following the ins and outs of baseball trades and roster movements.

The set contains 264 total cards and features many star players in their new uniforms from trades and deals that occurred early in the 1985 season. Some of the biggest names included Dave Righetti and Dickie Noles (traded from Yankees to Red Sox), Keith Hernandez (traded from Cardinals to Mets), Tom Seaver and Rafael Santana (traded from Phillies to White Sox), Bob Horner (traded from Braves to Cardinals), and Don Sutton (traded from Astros to Brewers).

While not quite as iconic or enduring as the main Topps flagship set from that same year, the 1985 Topps Traded cards gained a strong cult following among collectors interested in the business side of baseball and players changing teams. The scarcity and specialized rookie cards also added to the allure and collectibility over the long run.

When it comes to the most valuable cards from the 1985 Topps Traded set after all these years, several stand out both for their historical significance as well as strong sustained demand in the vintage trading card marketplace:

Dwight Gooden Rookie Card (#T207)
Undoubtedly the crown jewel of the entire set, Gooden’s star rookie appears prominently on his Mets uniform. As one of the greatest pitching prospects of all-time, Gooden’s rookie was a highly sought-after card in 1985. Continued Hall of Fame caliber performance increased interest exponentially over the decades. In near mint to mint condition, Gooden’s iconic rookie routinely sells for $1,000+ today. PSA 10 examples have brought over $10,000 at auction.

Roger Clemens Rookie Card (#T206)
While not the superstar rookie that Gooden was, Clemens’ first card is still highly significant as arguably the greatest pitcher of his generation. Inspiring strong nostalgia, the Rocket’s rookie remains one of the most valuable from the set. High-grade PSA/BGS copies in the $500-1,000 range are common for this key Red Sox/Blue Jays card.

Don Mattingly Rookie Card (#T205)
As one of the true fan favorite players of the 1980s, Mattingly’s star power endures to this day. His rookie as a 23-year old Yankee first baseman started a long and storied MLB career. Mattingly’s rook is consistently a strong seller, with PSA 10s bringing over $500. Even well-centered PSA 8 copies can hit $200.

Kirby Puckett Rookie Card (#T211)
Puckett emerged as a superstar for the Twins throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His rookie as an unheralded 23-year old outfielder started it all. Above average condition Puckett rooks in the $200-300 range are common in the market today. High-grade PSA 10 GEM Mint examples soar over $1,000.

Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie Card (#T208)
While not viewed as one of the all-time great rookies in the same stratosphere as Gooden or Mattingly, Ripken still became a beloved Orioles icon. His rookie as a 24-year old third baseman preceded his record-breaking consecutive games streak. Copies in PSA 8+ condition routinely sell for $100-250.

Tom Seaver (#199)
The Hall of Fame pitcher also changed uniforms that year in a preseason trade to the White Sox. Still a star at age 35, Seaver’s first ChiSox card remains a key piece for any vintage Red or player collection. Higher grade PSA/BGS copies trade hands for $100-250 based on condition.

Keith Hernandez (#T192)
The smooth-swinging first baseman brought his Gold Glove defense to the Mets after leaving St. Louis. Hernandez went on to become a fan favorite during New York’s 1980s renaissance. Well-centered near mint to mint copies typically sell in the $75-150 range.

Bob Horner (#T201)
The prodigious power-hitting third baseman looked to regain past glory traded from the woeful Braves to the talent-laden Cardinals. Unfortunately injuries derailed his career. Still, Horner rookies attract interest from 1980s collectors and Atlanta fans. PSA 8+ copies typically range $50-100.

While no single card equals the astronomical values of the true all-time great rookies, the 1985 Topps Traded set as a whole remains an iconic piece of cardboard nostalgia. Features multiple rookie stars and captured memorable 1980s baseball transactions still engaging collectors today. Continued popularity of the players involved guarantees the set maintains relevance for vintage enthusiasts for generations to come.

1989 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Topps Traded baseball card set was released by Topps towards the end of the 1989 baseball season. It was the second Topps Traded set issued, following the 1988 set. Topps Traded sets are separate from the main flagship Topps baseball card series and focus on players who were traded during that current season. The 1989 edition contained 84 total cards featuring players who found themselves on new teams after being dealt at the trade deadline.

Some notable player transactions that were highlighted in the ’89 Topps Traded set included Vince Coleman going from the St. Louis Cardinals to the New York Mets, Willie McGee joining the Oakland A’s after leaving St. Louis, and Ted Power switching from the Baltimore Orioles to the Cleveland Indians. Dave Parker also had his first card as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers after the Cincinnati Reds traded him. Additional trades showcased were Steve Bedrosian leaving the San Francisco Giants for the Philadelphia Phillies and Rick Lysander going from the Minnesota Twins to the Chicago White Sox.

In addition to focusing solely on players involved in trades during the 1989 season, the Topps Traded series differentiated itself from the flagship set in a few other key ways. First, the artwork on the cards featured the players in the new uniform of their post-trade team rather than a posed studio shot. This helped highlight and commemorate their arrival with a new club. The cards also used a yellow border and banner across the top stating “Topps Traded” to distinguish them from the traditional design of the standard issue cards.

The designs for each player varied in style as well. Some consisted of simple action shots pulled from team photos while others showed more artistic renditions with different backgrounds or unique embellishments. This added more visual intrigue compared to the uniform headshot style of the base Topps cards. The backs also highlighted each player’s career stats and new team information rather than career highlights. This focused specifically on their accomplishments up until joining their latest club.

In addition to trading active major leaguers, the 1989 Topps Traded set also featured the debut Topps cards of several top prospects who were recently acquired by their new organizations via trade. Names like Darrin Jackson (traded from San Diego to Chicago), Gregg Jefferies (traded from St. Louis to the New York Mets), and Jeff Montague (traded from Houston to Pittsburgh) appeared in their first major brand of cards after switching teams via player-for-player deals.

The high-profile nature and timing of the trades also added collector interest in 1989 Topps Traded. Coming during the “Pine Tar Game” season between Kansas City and the New York Yankees, trades in general received more attention among baseball fans. Players changing teams at the hectic trading deadline created additional storylines down the stretch. This made cards showing the debuts with new franchises appealing for collectors looking to commemorate these memorable transactions.

When sold as a complete set shortly after its initial release in late 1989, the 1984 Topps Traded issue carried a behike price tag compared to the standard flagship Topps series due to its limited print run and exclusive focus on traded players. Years later, the popularity and demand for the cards rose among collectors seeking to add vintage 1980s traded player issues to their collections. Key RCs like Jefferies and Jackson have risen the most in secondary market value in recent decades. Solid veteran traded cards such as Vince Coleman with the Mets also command higher prices than average due to their subject matter and significance within the set.

The 1989 Topps Traded baseball card set endured as an iconic and coveted vintage release among traders. By singlehandedly picturing every notable player dealt away from their clubs midseason, it provided a one-of-a-kind snapshot of some of that year’s most impactful transactions. Both the differentiated card designs and focus solely on trade-acquired players made it a standout addition to the annual Topps baseball offering and an important commemorative set for collectors of 1980s sports memorabilia and trading card history. Its blend of traded stars, prospects, and artistic flair ensured its remembrance for baseball card aficionados decades later.

1982 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1982 Topps Traded baseball card set stands out as one of the more unique years produced by the company. Issued as a limited run parallel to the standard 1982 Topps issue, the Traded set featured players who had been traded to new teams after the conclusion of the 1981 season. With its focus on highlighting roster changes throughout Major League Baseball, the 1982 Topps Traded cards captured a special moment in time for many of the sports’ top players.

Containing 134 total cards, the 1982 Topps Traded set showcased stars who had been dealt to new franchises, creating an intriguing snapshot of the league at a transition point. Some of the biggest names included in the set were Steve Carlton, who was traded from the Phillies to the Cardinals, and Pete Rose, who joined the Phillies after spending his entire career with the Reds. Other notable traded players in the set were Bobby Bonds (Angels to White Sox), Rich Gossage (Padres to Yankees), and Rick Reuschel (Cubs to Pirates).

In addition to highlighting recently traded players, the 1982 Topps Traded set also included “Traded” updates to select players from the standard issue who were dealt after production had already begun. This accounts for the inclusion of players like Don Sutton, who was traded from the Astros to the Athletics after the regular set was finalized but before the Traded issue hit the market. This added element of dynamism and having the most up-to-date rosters as possible further enhanced collector interest in the parallel set.

While the 1982 Topps regular issue featured the standard design that year of a red border with white team logo at top, the Traded set stood out visually with its unique blue border and “Traded” stamped diagonally across each card front. This distinctive stylistic difference made the Traded cards immediately stand out in a collection and increased their appeal. What’s more, with its limited print run focusing on postseason trades, the 1982 Topps Traded set had a natural scarcity that further amplified collector demand over the years.

Pricing for individual 1982 Topps Traded cards has fluctuated over time based on the player, condition, and level of demand in the market. Currently, some of the most valuable cards from the set in top graded gem mint condition include Steve Carlton PSA 10 (>$1000), Pete Rose PSA 10 (>$800), Don Sutton PSA 10 (>$500), and Goose Gossage PSA 10 (>$400). More common star players can still fetch $100-$300 in PSA 10, while solid rookies or Hall of Famers might reach $50-150 in top grades.

There are still plenty of affordable options to be found across the set in lower mint grades. Complete sets in polished worn to lightly played condition which showcase the full array of recently traded players often sell in the $300-600 range depending on the overall condition. Key individual cards in PSA 8 or BVG 8.5 grades might sell for $50-100 each. This affords collectors at all budget levels an opportunity to represent this special edition in their collections.

Beyond its unique subject focus and collector appeal, the 1982 Topps Traded set also carries some fun historical context. It captured a memorable moment in MLB during the early 1980s as trades shuffled rosters and aligned players with new teams. Some deals proved pivotal changes that impacted pennant races, like Steve Carlton bolstering the Cardinals pitching staff en route to a World Series title. Others signaled the beginning of the end for player’s careers, such as Bobby Bonds’ midseason transaction. In total, the 1982 Topps Traded cards preserved an intriguing slice of baseball from over 40 years ago.

While production numbers for the 1982 Topps Traded set are not known definitively, the limited focus and special “Traded” concept clearly positioned it as a subset parallel rather than a true replacement for the standard issue. Its distinguishing blue borders and capture of baseball’s shifting landscape in real time gave the set a unique niche that remains appealing to collectors today. Whether chasing Hall of Fame careers, sought-after rookie seasons, or capturing a moment in history – the 1982 Topps Traded baseball cards continue delivering enjoyment and nostalgia for fans nearly four decades later. Their vibrant legacy and intriguing subject matter ensures the 1982 Topps Traded set will remain a cherished part of sports card history.

86 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps Traded baseball card set was the second special traded set issued by Topps after the success of the 1985 Topps Traded set. Like the previous year, Topps Traded cards featured players who had been traded to new teams after the regular Topps baseball cards for that year had already been produced and distributed. The 1986 regular Topps set had been released in March, so any player trades made after that would not be reflected on the standard cards. Topps Traded helped update collectors on roster changes with cards showing players in the uniforms of their new clubs.

The 1986 Topps Traded set contains 86 cards and was released in late 1986, around the same time as the postseason. Some of the biggest player trades prior to and during the 1986 season resulted in notable cards in the Topps Traded set. Future Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson’s trade from the Oakland A’s to the New York Mets midway through the ’86 season earned him a Traded card sporting his new Mets uniform. Other star players like Gary Carter, who was dealt from Montreal to the Mets, and Don Baylor, traded from Baltimore to the Red Sox, also received Traded cards.

Rookie cards of players who debuted after the regular issues are also found in Topps Traded sets. The 1986 version included rookie cards for future all-stars like Wally Joyner (Angels), Mark McGwire (A’s), and Tim Raines (Expos). Raines had already established himself as one of baseball’s top base stealers but his rookie card was in Traded since he made his MLB debut after the standard Topps release. The Traded sets provide the only rookie cards for players who broke into the majors via a midseason call-up.

Condition and centering are especially important when evaluating the condition of 1986 Topps Traded cards since the cardboard stock was thinner and more prone to damage compared to the standard Topps issues. Many factors like play wear, creases or corners can detract from a Traded card’s grade. Surface flaws from the printing process were also more evident on Traded cards versus the regular issues. The photo quality and consistency varied more noticeably card to card as well. Still, high grade examples of stars and key rookies remain quite valuable in the collecting market.

A few cards stand out as especially significant in the 1986 Topps Traded set. The Rickey Henderson card #T1 is one of the most iconic from the set as he was arguably baseball’s biggest star at the time. His trade to the Mets was huge news. The Tim Raines rookie card #T39 is also highly sought after by collectors. Other valuable cards include the Gary Carter #T4 and Don Baylor #T5 cards since both were impact players on contending teams. The Mark McGwire rookie #T80 also holds nostalgic appeal. But condition is paramount – low grade examples of even key cards have diminished value.

Beyond the star players, the 1986 Topps Traded set also provides an interesting snapshot of other roster moves and debuts from that season. Future All-Star outfielder Mitch Webster received card #T14 after being traded from the Cubs to the Expos. Reliever Lee Smith, still early in his career, got a Traded card #T29 showing his new stint with the Red Sox. Outfielder Billy Hatcher broke in with the Astros and was featured on card #T43. And catcher Ed Ott, who had brief MLB playing time, received card #T72 after joining the Padres organization.

For collectors, finding complete sets of 1986 Topps Traded in high grade is a challenge. The thin cardboard and larger size of Traded cards versus the standard issues means higher odds of wear and damage over the decades. Still, individual high quality examples of the top rookie and star player cards remain quite valuable. And for historians, the 1986 Topps Traded set preserves an alternative snapshot of the MLB roster changes and debuts from that season outside of the traditional Topps releases. It provides a unique look at the evolving roster makeup of teams after significant midseason trades.

The 1986 Topps Traded baseball card set stands out for capturing many impactful player trades and rookie debuts that occurred after the standard Topps issues for that year. Key cards featuring stars like Rickey Henderson, Gary Carter, Don Baylor and rookies such as Tim Raines and Mark McGwire have enduring nostalgic appeal and solid value. For collectors, it remains a challenge to assemble a complete set in top condition. But for historians, the 1986 Topps Traded cards preserve a special supplemental perspective on the changing MLB landscape during a memorable season.