Topps baseball cards have included redeemable code inserts since 2011 that allow collectors to build digital sets online. These codes provide collectors a way to integrate their physical card collections with a virtual experience on the Topps Bunt and Topps NOW apps and websites. With so many different series, parallels, insert cards and promotional codes issued over the past decade, it can be tricky to keep track of them all. This in-depth guide covers the various Topps baseball card code programs throughout the years to help collectors get the most out of this unique collecting aspect.
Topps began including redeemable codes on select 2011 baseball cards that allowed collectors to build a virtual base card set on the newly created Topps Bunt app. The first codes were found only on some parallels and insert cards from the flagship Topps series and could be redeemed to receive the corresponding virtual card.
In 2012, Topps expanded the code redemption program by including one redeemable code in every rack pack and blaster box of flagship Topps Series 1 and Series 2. This allowed collectors to start completing virtual base sets much easier. Additional coded inserts and parallels were still issued to expand collecting options beyond the base varieties.
Topps refined the digital redemption structure in 2013 by moving away from rack/blaster pack guaranteed codes. Instead, codes were inserted randomly throughout the flagship set at roughly a 1 in 10 pack odds. Bonus code cards continued to be inserted throughout specialty parallels. The first Topps NOW codes also debuted that year, allowing collection of virtual cards for CURRENT events outside the standard release calendar.
2014 saw the introduction of even more digital collectible options with the addition of digital-only “Chrome” and “Gold” parallels that could only be obtained through code redemptions. Physical “platinum” parallels carried a code for the matching virtual parallel too. Topps NOW exponentially expanded with quick-production cards to spotlight notable performances throughout the season.
Topps increased digital excitement in 2015 with the release of virtual-exclusive short prints and autographs from the Diamond Kings, Home Run Challenge and Star Wars Evolution insert sets. Topps Bunt also launched daily/weekly redemption programs that awarded randomly inserted coin/ticket prized packs/players. Physical “Black” parallels additionally featured redemption-only digital counterparts.
With each subsequent release, Topps has introduced new virtual levels like Superfractors and 1/1 Autographs in 2016 as well as “rainbow” parallels that require collecting full color runs to complete in 2017. Added bonus codes started appearing in jumbo boxes and fat packs too for expanded bonus redemption options.
Topps NOW steadily improves with faster turnarounds and higher print runs to meet collector demand for timely capped content. Prominent performance stats are better highlighted and cards can often sell out completely. Monthly Box subscriptions guarantee additional codes throughout the season.
More premium physical memorabilia cards began carrying code redemptions in 2018 like Topps Archives Signatures and Topps Five Star. Insert sets like Home Run Challenge expanded digital chase factors too. Foil pack exclusives increased virtual card print runs as well. Redemption browser functionality was optimized.
Most recently in 2019, Topps updated their flagship base set codes to a 1 in 3 packs guaranteed redemption rate again. Insert cards showcase complex matrix variations involving virtual parallels, autographs and 1/1s. Regular Topps NOW updates for milestones keep digital collecting fresh all year round.
Topps has gotten smarter about recognizing viral moments too with fast-turnaround release windows. Unique code designs on inserts add more levels of rarity amongst physical parallel types. Overall, Topps has built baseball card code redemption into a robust long-term augmented experience for enjoying physical cards alongside digital collecting pursuits. With constant innovation each year, codes show no signs of disappearing from Topps baseball product anytime soon.
Expect Topps to continue pushing digital boundaries by working additional licensing properties and new sports into redemption programs while expanding hobby shop and convention exclusive activation opportunities too. Staying up to date on current code types and online resources like the Topps Support Center guides ensures collectors are fully optimized. Topps has successfully integrated virtual and physical collecting into a cohesive blended hobby model driving engagement across mediums. For those seeking both digital and tangible collecting avenues, Topps baseball card codes deliver an exciting added dimension.
