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In a move that proves sports meets entertainment and culture, two top companies, Fanatics and Topps, are setting the stage with a diverse array of events and promotions set to launch across the United States. Fanatics, the global leader in licensed sports merchandising, is broadening its American events roster. Meanwhile, Topps, renowned for their sports trading cards and sports memorabilia, is bringing collector promotions back, bigger and better.

At the Topps Industry Conference in Atlanta, Fanatics detailed its ambitious plans for the ‘FanaticsFest’. Tailoring each event to the unique cadence of the destination, Fanatics will roll out fanfests that blend the vivacious energy of fandom with the appreciation for culture and collecting. The conference highlighted the scheduled fanfest at New York’s Javits Center, poised for an August 16-18 happening. However, Fanatics will not be a one-event wonder. They have planned an Orlando, FL event from November 1-3, a collective collector’s dream, and a more intimate gathering at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park on September 28-29 which is expected to play host to autograph sessions with local athletes.

Additional events from Fanatics are tipped to offer a zestful mix – Large-scale gatherings, regional shows, venue-specific events at stadiums, and more. Paired with collaborations with sports leagues, Fanatics will bring the thrill of drafts and major events to its attendees. While we know the hype is real, further details regarding such events are awaited in anticipation.

While Fanatics is setting the sports event scene on fire, Topps is not far behind. The nostalgia-inducing Trading Card Day is back, slated for an August 3 release, where hobby shops will offer free exclusive packs. Collectors are in for a thrill with the MVP Buyback program making a comeback this fall, a lucrative deal that allows collectors to swap cards of recent MLB MVPs for some much-desired store credit.

Last year’s Hobby Rip Night was a roaring success, leading to a staggering surge in sales for 18% of the participating 409 stores. Riding on the wave of this success, Topps is geared to launch its second edition on September 14. A completely original initiative, the Hobby Break Night, is marked for December 14. This online event will feature a smorgasbord of live case, box, and pack openings, with the cherry on top being guest appearances and giveaways.

In their relentless pursuit of enhancing fan experiences and engaging collectors, Fanatics events alongside Topps promotions form two sides of a coin. Whether it is amping up the energy of fandom, offering intimate autograph sessions, providing lucrative collector engagements, or fuelling the desire for sports and culture together, Fanatics and Topps are leaving no stone unturned. Both companies are stretching the boundaries and moulding the essence of what it means to be a fan and a collector, all while offering unique, fulfilling experiences that will keep sports enthusiasts coming back for more.

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The 2023 Panini Select Football is revving up for its highly awaited summer launch just before the hustle and bustle of NFL training camps. A mesmerizing display of chromium-styled cards, this edition has solidified its spot as a must-have in Panini’s array of sports card releases. With a robust 500-card base set sliced into five distinctive levels, the 2023 edition promises to deliver excitement and collectible treasures for all avid football card enthusiasts.

Kicking off at the Concourse Level with cards #1 – 100, these are the bread and butter of the set, the ones likely to be found in most collections. On the other end of the spectrum lies the elusive Field Level, boasting cards #401 – 500, where the real gems lie waiting to be uncovered. Expect a medley of sought-after parallels such as the entrancing Zebra and Disco, alongside the limited-edition Tie-Dye parallels that add a touch of exclusivity to any collection.

A fan-favorite feature making a return in the 2023 release is the XRC Mystery Redemption program. This enticing addition offers collectors the chance to snag some of the premier licensed rookie cards from the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft class. Featuring Silver Prizm variants, low-numbered editions, and even autographs, the XRC cards are sure to set pulses racing for collectors seeking that extra thrill.

Astounding autographs and memorabilia await in this year’s release, including the tantalizing Jumbo Rookie Signature Swatches and the opulent Prime Selections Prizm Signatures Tie-Dye autograph memorabilia cards. Furthermore, legendary player autographs are set to make a grand appearance in the Spectra Hall of Fame Signatures Prizm series, adding a touch of class to any collection.

In addition to the base set and autographs, collectors can look forward to the return of captivating inserts such as Starcade, Color Wheel, and Select Anniversary, perfectly aligning with the aesthetic and vibe of this year’s NBA Select release, promising a visual treat for all collectors.

For those eagerly anticipating the release, the hobby box configuration offers an enticing glimpse into what to expect. Each pack will contain 5 cards, with 12 packs nestled snugly in every box and 12 boxes encased in a single case. The expected contents per box include 2 autographs, 1 memorabilia card, 15 Prizm parallels, 6 inserts, and 2 Field Level base cards, making it a treasure trove for collectors.

With each hobby box retailing at an approximate price of $450, collectors are in for a comprehensive experience, chock-full of high-value cards and the thrill of the hunt. As the release date draws closer and summer edges its way in, the excitement mounts for the 2023 Panini Select Football amongst collectors and NFL aficionados alike, who are poised to capture the iconic moments and athletes of the forthcoming NFL season.

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Heritage Auctions is gearing up for its Summer Platinum Night Auction, featuring a remarkable piece of baseball history – the ball struck by Shohei Ohtani for his 176th career home run. Breaking Hideki Matsui’s record for the most home runs by a Japanese-born MLB player, Ohtani’s incredible feat at Dodger Stadium on April 21, 2024, has etched his name in the annals of baseball lore.

The significance of this ball extends beyond mere memorabilia; it symbolizes a groundbreaking moment in the MLB timeline. Ohtani’s exceptional talent as both a pitcher and hitter adds layers of awe to this historic achievement. Authenticated by Major League Baseball, the ball bears a holographic sticker and a unique serial number, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to validate its authenticity and trace its storied past.

With an estimated value surpassing $200,000, this artifact isn’t just for sports memorabilia aficionados; it appeals to anyone who reveres notable sports accomplishments. The upcoming auction at Heritage Auctions promises a thrilling opportunity for bidders to acquire a tangible connection to baseball greatness embodied by Shohei Ohtani. As a player who continues to mesmerize fans worldwide, Ohtani’s legacy is now encapsulated in this coveted home run ball, making it a must-have item for collectors seeking a slice of sporting history.

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Mile High Card Company, the renowned hub for vintage sports cards and collectibles, has launched its coveted Extra Innings Auction right after the holiday weekend. This enticing auction, which began on Tuesday, May 28, features a stunning array of over 1,200 lots, inviting collectors of all budgets and preferences to join the bidding frenzy in pursuit of timeless treasures.

At the heart of this auction lie some exceptional pieces that are sure to captivate seasoned collectors and enthusiasts alike. Standout items include a PSA 9 graded 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie card, a 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card graded PSA 6 (MC), and a rare T206 Ty Cobb Portrait card boasting a striking red background with an SGC 3 rating – offering a glimpse into the rich history of sports card collecting.

Adding to the allure are complete and partial sets on offer, such as the 1956 Topps set, which boasts a plethora of graded cards, enriching the collection with variety and depth. Fans of baseball legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig will also find treasures from the 1933 Goudey series, a 1950 Bowman Jackie Robinson card graded SGC 5 EX, and a 1952 Topps Willie Mays card graded SGC 5 up for grabs.

The auction transcends eras, featuring stars from different time periods, including a 1954 Topps Henry Aaron card graded PSA 3, and a 1961 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded PSA 7. Modern collectors are not left out, with items like a 2000 Bowman Tom Brady ROY Promotion card graded PSA 6, and sealed Pokémon Base Set boxes from 1999 and 2000 making an appearance, catering to a diverse range of interests.

Collectors have until Thursday, June 6, to participate in this thrilling auction that promises an unparalleled opportunity to own rare and sought-after pieces that narrate the compelling history of sports memorabilia and trading cards. Moreover, the anticipation mounts as Mile High Card Company prepares for its upcoming major catalog auction, set to entice collectors later this summer, while also welcoming consignments from interested parties eager to share their prized collectibles with fellow enthusiasts.

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Topps is making history with its latest collaboration, teaming up with artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson to introduce a groundbreaking series of baseball cards paying homage to the Negro Leagues. This unprecedented project marks the debut of the Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a collection that Johnson proudly considers one of his greatest achievements in the realm of art and sports.

The unveiling of the inaugural card featuring the legendary Satchel Paige took place in Kansas City as part of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative. Leading up to the much-anticipated Rickwood Classic, a new card will be revealed weekly, building anticipation for the special MLB game scheduled at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This event not only celebrates the rich history of the oldest professional ballpark in the U.S. but also pays tribute to the Birmingham Black Barons, the former residents of the iconic stadium.

To further elevate the significance of this card series, 24-foot tall replicas of each card will be prominently displayed at various MLB ballparks across the country, ensuring that the legacy of the Negro Leagues and its iconic players is honored on a grand scale.

Micah Johnson, the talented artist behind these exquisite portraits, has seamlessly transitioned from a career in professional baseball to a renowned artist dedicated to inspiring and empowering through his craft. His intricate hand-drawn renditions of Negro Leagues legends showcase not only his artistic prowess but also his deep respect for the historical significance of these players.

In addition to the base cards featuring these remarkable illustrations, collectors are in for a treat with the opportunity to acquire limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These exclusive variations, such as Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and Gold Border (/1), add a touch of rarity and exclusivity to these already coveted collector’s items, elevating the excitement of collecting and owning a piece of baseball history.

Beyond serving as valuable collectibles, these cards serve as a tangible celebration of the enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues and the extraordinary athletes who contributed to its rich tapestry. With new releases set every Thursday leading up to June 20, fans and collectors alike are eagerly anticipating each card drop, eager to complete their sets and immerse themselves in this poignant tribute to the trailblazers of the game.

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In a groundbreaking partnership between McFarlane Toys and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), fans of the popular mixed martial arts organization will soon have the opportunity to own detailed collectible figures celebrating their favorite UFC athletes. The announcement, made in Las Vegas and Tempe, Arizona on May 15, 2024, has set the stage for an exciting collaboration that merges the worlds of physical and digital collectibles.

The new licensing agreement, facilitated by UFC’s licensing partner, IMG, aims to bring to life a series of 6-inch figures that intricately depict the most iconic moments and athletes in UFC history. These carefully crafted figures will cater to both traditional collectors, who prefer physical items, and tech-savvy enthusiasts, who can enjoy the digital versions of the collectibles.

Todd McFarlane, the visionary Founder and CEO of McFarlane Toys, shared his enthusiasm for this new venture, highlighting UFC’s global appeal and the opportunity to capture its dynamic energy through collectible figures. “UFC has established itself as a powerhouse in the sports world, captivating millions of fans worldwide with its adrenaline-pumping events,” McFarlane remarked. “Crafting authentic and detailed figures that embody the essence of UFC fights is an exciting challenge for us, and we look forward to seeing fans interact with these creations.”

UFC’s Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products, Tracey Bleczinski, echoed McFarlane’s sentiments, emphasizing the emotional connection fans have with UFC and their desire for authentic merchandise. “Teaming up with McFarlane Toys, renowned for their expertise in creating intricate collectibles, is a natural fit for us. We are excited to offer our fans a new way to engage with their favorite athletes and relive the intensity of UFC matches through these meticulously designed figures,” Bleczinski stated.

Scheduled for release in the fall of 2024, the new line of UFC collectible figures will be accessible online and at selected retailers worldwide. Additionally, fans can acquire digital versions of the figures through a dedicated platform at mcfarlanetoys.digital, ensuring a seamless transition between physical and virtual collectibles for a truly immersive experience.

This innovative collaboration between McFarlane Toys and UFC is poised to revolutionize the collectibles market for UFC aficionados, providing them with a unique opportunity to connect with their beloved fighters and commemorate the thrill of the octagon through intricately designed and authentic collectible figures.

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Heritage Auctions has unveiled an exciting lineup of autographed photographs in its Icons Photography Auction. One of the most prominent pieces up for grabs is a 1948 photo of basketball star George Mikan, matching his 1948 Bowman rookie card. This 8×10 Type 1 photo captures Mikan in action and is adorned with his signature in blue ink, with an estimated value exceeding $20,000.

The theme of signed vintage photos continues throughout the auction, with a late 1940s photo of Cleveland Browns legend Otto Graham, identical to his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, also featuring his signature. Another standout item is an autographed 1949 photo of Jackie Robinson receiving his Silver Bat for winning the NL batting title, a year when he was crowned MVP. This Type I photo, personalized to “Jeff,” holds particular historical significance.

Furthermore, a 1957 photo of Robinson bidding farewell to his locker at Ebbets Field upon retiring from baseball is featured, showcasing his Dodgers cap, home jersey, fielder’s glove, cleats, and equipment bag. Two bats in the background, one belonging to Gil Hodges, add to the allure of this piece, expected to attract bids exceeding $10,000.

Among the notable offerings is a photo believed to be the one used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, featuring Mays’ signature from the 1990s on the front.

The auction catalog encompasses over 150 vintage images, with some dating back over a century. Noteworthy is a photo from the 1919 World Series showing Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther shaking hands before the infamous game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This image, complete with the original paper caption and stamps on the back, is set to commence bidding at $8,000.

In addition to these standout pieces, the auction includes rookie photos of sports legends such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970). Various images of iconic figures like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and other pre-war sports stars are also highlighted in this diverse collection.

With a rich array of sports history captured through photography, the auction is scheduled to run until June 13, offering a remarkable chance for collectors and sports enthusiasts to acquire a piece of heritage from the iconic world of sports.

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A buzz enveloped the sports collectibles world when a staggering $2.1 million worth of vintage baseball cards vanished from an Ohio hotel, only to be unearthed from the clutches of thieves by a diligent recovery effort. The narrative unfolds at the threshold of the Best Western Plus hotel in Strongsville, Ohio, serving as the backdrop for the covert operation that unfolded in the wee hours.

A treasure trove of classic baseball cards, meticulously curated and intended for display at the Strongsville Sports Collectors Convention, went amiss, triggering alarm bells at Memory Lane, the valiant collectibles establishment headquartered in Tustin, California. Their prized possessions had gone astray in transit, and the hunt for the culprit ensued.

The enigmatic figure at the heart of the grand theft saga is Jacob Paxton, a twenty-seven-year-old native of Brunswick, Ohio, who found himself in the unenviable position of being the prime suspect. Faced with charges of first-degree felony theft, his schemes were unraveling. The cards, entrusted to the care of FedEx for safe passage, failed to make their way into the eager hands of the Memory Lane emissary, a victim of circumstance caught in the whirlwind of criminal mischief.

Amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerged when security footage rejected the hotel staff’s dubious claims about the missing package. The spotlight now shone on a sturdy cardboard box teeming with nostalgia – a captivating array of vintage baseball memorabilia. Among the casualties were 14 rare Cracker Jack cards dating back to 1914, a cherished selection of T206 tobacco cards, Brunner’s Bread cards hailing from the early 1910s, and illustrious cards featuring legends like Mickey Mantle and Roberto Clemente, all cocooned in the safety of standard grading holders.

The tale took a decisive turn with the intervention of the vigilant Strongsville Police force, who donned their detective hats on the evening of April 18. The threads of the case wove a compelling narrative as Paxton’s ill-fated attempts to peddle the stolen treasures at a local card emporium came to light. A game-changing tip propelled the authorities towards a Cleveland property linked to Paxton’s acquaintances, where a fraction of the loot, 52 cards to be exact, were reclaimed from the abyss of the criminal underbelly.

Yet, the quest for justice and restitution rages on, with two elusive cards, valued at a staggering $90,000, stubbornly eluding capture. Among these coveted relics are a PSA 8 graded 1941 Play Ball Ted Williams card and a PSA 5 graded 1909 T204 Ramly Walter Johnson card, both emblematic of a bygone era of sporting glory.

Undeterred by the close call, Memory Lane proceeded unfazed with their scheduled auction, steadfast in their conviction that justice would prevail before the final gavel struck on May 4. Guarding their revelations with utmost secrecy, they heeded the advice of law enforcement to guard the delicate threads of the investigation from unwarranted tampering, paving the way for a swift and triumphant return of the purloined treasures.

With the stolen cards set to resume their rightful place, the winning bidders of the auction stand on the brink of sealing their coveted acquisitions. This harrowing saga not only shines a spotlight on the cutthroat realm of vintage collectibles but also celebrates the triumph of diligence and cooperation in thwarting the machinations of malefactors.

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The market for graded magazines, especially those of Sports Illustrated, has seen a surge in interest within the collectibles industry. Certified Collectibles Group (CGC) has been at the forefront of this trend for the past 15 years, having evaluated over 28,000 issues of SI. This growing passion for preserved sports history encapsulated in graded magazines is opening up new possibilities for collectors and investors alike.

At the peak of the magazine pricing spectrum was a 9.8 graded newsstand copy of the December 10, 1984 Sports Illustrated issue featuring Michael Jordan in his Chicago Bulls debut. Titled “A Star is Born,” this particular cover, among the more than 2,000 SI issues graded at 9.8, fetched an impressive $126,000. However, the record is poised for a challenge with the emergence of a new milestone in magazine grading.

In a groundbreaking move, CGC bestowed a rare 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 issue of Sports Illustrated showcasing soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé just before the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grading was presented to a magazine submitted by a collector from the Midwest, marking the first SI issue to receive such a prestigious score. The magazine is set to be auctioned through Goldin, drawing significant attention to this unique piece.

Goldin recognizes the immense potential in the market for graded magazines and has even established a dedicated category for these coveted items. The Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography at Goldin highlights that the appeal of these magazines transcends sports fans, attracting photography enthusiasts, given the contributions of renowned photographers to the iconic covers over the years.

The spotlight is currently on the issue featuring Mbappé, one of two cover versions produced, with the alternative cover showcasing the US soccer team. As the auction progresses towards its closing date on June 8, bids for the Mbappé cover have already reached an impressive $1,708, foreshadowing a potentially record-breaking sale.

In addition to the highly anticipated SI issue, the auction includes other notable items such as a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded at 8.5, a unique 1956 Floyd Patterson card graded at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids featuring Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967, adding to the allure of this event.

While the majority of graded magazines find their way to buyers through platforms like eBay, where over 6,000 listings can be found, significant sales also take place during specialized auctions. For instance, a CGC 9.6 graded issue featuring soccer icon Pele from 1975 was sold for $25,000 in March 2023, while a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 fetched over $11,000 last year. Notably, four of the top six highest-selling graded SIs on eBay since last year prominently featured Michael Jordan on the cover, underscoring the enduring popularity of the basketball great.

The escalating interest in graded magazines signifies the varied tastes of collectors and the evolving landscape of sports memorabilia as a valuable investment. With each auction and sale, these preserved pieces of history continue to captivate enthusiasts and investors alike, bridging the worlds of sports, photography, and collectibles in a unique and compelling manner.

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Richmond, Virginia, has unleashed a novel rendezvous for sports devotees and collectors, amalgamating the convivial vibe of a sports bar with the enthralling appeal of a sports card shop. Known as Parlay at Graybo’s, this distinctive establishment is situated in the historical Scott’s Addition neighborhood, renowned for its plethora of entertainment spots.

Conceived by Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, the concept strives to furnish a communal setting where visitors can relish the excitement of unveiling new card packs, take part in live card breaks, and spectate sporting events on expansive screens, all while indulging in a delectable meal and libations. The venue made its official debut with a lavish event on May 18, featuring a live viewing of the Preakness Stakes, complemented by live music and special festivities.

Occupying the former space of the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s ingeniously intertwines the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway adorned with a small putting green, amplifying the interactive and captivating essence of the venue.

The brains behind Parlay at Graybo’s boast a profound affinity and extensive experience in the sports card realm:

Duke Dodson, a card collector since the late 1980s, reignited his passion for card collecting in 2021. With a solid foundation in business and finance, Dodson has played a vital role in the real estate sector in Richmond.

Gray Burnette, a history buff and former educator, delved into this venture after departing from the educational domain due to pandemic-related challenges.

Ryan Fitz brings a background in property management and technology, focusing on customer integration to infuse a modern twist into the business operations.

Motivated by their nostalgia for childhood card collecting and a vision to craft a venue catering not only to children but also offering a sophisticated setting for adults to relish sports and collectibles, the trio transformed the initial humble sports card shop into a more expansive and versatile space.

The new locale flaunts noteworthy expansions, with the sports bar spanning 3,300 square feet and the card shop extending to 2,200 square feet. This growth is poised to drive a surge in foot traffic, leveraging its prime location in an area brimming with entertainment options.

Parlay at Graybo’s boasts an innovative feature allowing patrons to engage in or witness live card breaks from the bar, injecting an exhilarating element akin to game days. The founders also cultivate a community for collectors through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement with the collector community both locally and online.

According to Fitz, the Richmond area teems with a vibrant and expanding base of collectors, ranging from amateurs to seasoned aficionados and investors, rendering Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming hub for all. The closure of the previous venue, Circuit, paved the way for this fresh endeavor, which Dodson seized by purchasing the property shortly before its shuttering.

This trailblazing amalgamation of a sports bar intertwined with a card shop is trailblazing in the region, proffering a distinctive, electrifying ambiance poised to allure both sports aficionados and card collectors, furnishing them with a one-of-a-kind, immersive encounter.

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