Sports Card News

The 2024 Topps Tier One Baseball collection is creating a buzz among enthusiasts with its extravagant array of memorabilia and autographs. This collection stands out for its elaborate design that clearly required a massive collaborative effort to curate. The 2024 release introduces a fresh aesthetic to the long-loved brand, embracing a traditional box format that houses a single pack boasting four cards. In each pack, collectors can look forward to finding two autographs, one memorabilia card, and either a base card or a base parallel.

Surprisingly, the 2024 Topps Tier One series has added base cards to its repertoire. This set is concise, comprising 100 cards divided into three tiers. These tiers are segregated among 20 retired legends, 50 current players, and 30 rookies, with selected cards also available in autographed forms, enriching their appeal to collectors.

One of the most impressive features of this series is the diverse range of autographed subsets included. It encompasses a blend of current and retired players featured in categories like Prime Performers, Breakout Stars, Next Level, and more. Notably, the Clear One subset offers a unique twist with dual versions, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the collection.

Moreover, the memorabilia section of the Topps Tier One series is equally captivating. It showcases a wide selection of relic cards, including die-cut versions reminiscent of the Topps Triple Threads series. These relic cards feature fascinating items such as bat barrels and large patches, adding a premium touch to the collection.

With a robust checklist and varied odds for different pulls, the 2024 Topps Tier One set is anticipated to make a significant impact in the collector’s market. The series generated immense interest during a brief pre-sale on Topps.com, culminating in a quick sell-out. Fans can mark their calendars for the official launch scheduled on July 3, promising an exciting unveiling of this exceptional collection.

The 2024 Topps Tier One Baseball cards collection promises a concise yet valuable addition to any collector’s portfolio. Here’s a breakdown of what collectors can expect from the set:

– Cards Per Pack: Hobby – 4

– Packs Per Box: Hobby – 1

– Boxes Per Case: Hobby – 12

– Set Size: 100 cards

– Release Date (subject to change): July 3, 2024

– Autographs – 2

– Memorabilia Cards – 1

– Base Cards or Parallels – 1 Total

The Base Set Checklist comprises 100 cards spread across three tiers. Let’s delve into the details of each tier and their corresponding parallels:

Tier 1 Parallels:

– Silver Foil

– Purple Foil

– Red Foil

– Holo Gold Foil

– Holo Silver Foil

– Pink Foil

– Printing Plates

– Holo Platinum Blue Foil

Tier 2 Parallels:

– Bronze Foil

– Silver Foil

– Purple Foil

– Blue Foil

– Red Foil

– Holo Gold Foil

– Holo Silver Foil

– Pink Foil

– Printing Plates

– Holo Platinum Blue Foil

Tier 3 Parallels:

– Bronze Foil

– Blue Foil

– Green Foil

– Red Foil

– Holo Gold Foil

– Holo Silver Foil

– Pink Foil

– Printing Plates

– Holo Platinum Blue Foil

The alluring lineup of players featuring in each tier includes a mix of iconic legends and promising rookies, making this collection a must-have for avid collectors. The 2024 Topps Tier One Baseball series promises a captivating and enriching experience for fans of the sport and card collecting alike.

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Across the sunny streets of Claremont, California, a new haven for sports aficionados has emerged. “Legend’s Attic,” owned by the renowned MLB pitcher Orel Hershiser, unveils a fusion of museum, art gallery, and collectibles store. Nestled at 619 W. Foothill Blvd., Claremont, CA, this vibrant space welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., without any admission fee.

The heart of Legend’s Attic beats with a myriad of attractions. Experience a close encounter with Hershiser’s prized possessions, such as the majestic 1988 World Series trophy and the revered Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year Award. The museum transforms into an artistic sanctuary with the works of renowned sports artist Dave Hobrecht. Delight in “Grace,” a masterpiece depicting Jackie Robinson amidst other historical icons.

Delve deeper into the halls of Legend’s Attic to discover themed rooms that pay homage to sporting legends. The Dodgers Room narrates tales of Dodgers and baseball through a treasure trove of memorabilia. On the other hand, the Lakers Room commemorates luminaries like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Admire the Helmet Room adorned with signed football helmets from NFL greats, and immerse yourself in nostalgia at the Arcade Room equipped with classic sports video games.

The Artists’ Room hosts a collection of artworks capturing iconic figures like Vince Lombardi and Tiger Woods, showcasing the eternal connection between sports and art. At the Collector’s Corner, sports card enthusiasts find solace, engaging in trading and expanding their collections amidst a backdrop of camaraderie and passion.

Orel Hershiser’s legacy extends beyond the baseball diamond, venturing into the annals of sports history through Legend’s Attic. This unique concept heralds from Hershiser’s aspiration to share his personal journey and the broader tapestry of sports heritage with fans and collectors alike. More than a museum, Legend’s Attic evolves into a dynamic community hub, fostering a space where sports aficionados convene to relive timeless moments, celebrate sports culture, and enrich their memorabilia collections.

Embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and history at Legend’s Attic. Drop by to witness an array of exhibits, partake in special events, and bask in the allure of sports lore. For additional information on upcoming showcases and happenings, navigate through the Legend’s Attic website at legendsattic.com or connect directly with the venue for a deeper dive into the realm of sports memorabilia and art.

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More than 80 years since the passing of baseball icon Lou Gehrig, his enduring legacy remains a beacon of inspiration for fans worldwide. To commemorate Lou Gehrig Day, MLB Auctions has unveiled a special fundraising initiative in support of the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, dedicated to advancing research and treatment for the disease closely associated with Gehrig.

From June 2 onwards, baseball enthusiasts will have the chance to participate in an auction featuring exclusive Gehrig Day baseball cards. Each card represents a Major League Baseball team and showcases a player selected by MLB writer and ALS fighter, Sarah Langs, who will receive a special tribute from the Phillies on Lou Gehrig Day at Citizens Bank Park.

The selection of players for these unique cards is deeply significant, drawing from their statistical connections to Gehrig, their advocacy for the ALS community, or their unwavering passion for the game. The auction not only presents these one-of-a-kind baseball cards but also offers a priceless “New York Yankees” experience courtesy of Mastercard.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurological disorder affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and degeneration. With approximately 30,000 individuals in the U.S. and 500,000 worldwide grappling with this condition, ALS does not discriminate based on age, race, or gender, and currently lacks a cure.

By participating in this auction, fans directly contribute to endeavors aimed at discovering improved treatments and enhancing the lives of ALS patients. The event exemplifies the potent unity within the baseball community as it mobilizes support for a cause that transcends the confines of the sport.

Notable names featured on these exceptional Gehrig Day cards span across MLB teams, including standout players like Mike Trout from the Angels, Yordan Alvarez representing the Astros, and Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers, among others. Each card serves as a poignant link between baseball’s storied past and the ongoing battle against ALS, giving these collectibles a dual significance: sentimental value and potential impact in a critical health crusade.

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The month of June promises to be an exhilarating time for sports card collectors, with a plethora of new releases hitting the shelves across various sports. From basketball to baseball and hockey, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. Let’s delve into the upcoming sports card releases and highlight some of the key sets to watch out for.

On June 5, 2024, three exciting sets are set to be released. The 2023-24 Panini Obsidian Basketball comes packed with two autographs, a memorabilia card, and a variety of inserts and parallels per box. Keep an eye out for the ultra-rare Black Color Blast inserts that are sure to be a collector’s favorite. Additionally, there’s a First Off the Line version with exclusive content for avid collectors.

Coinciding with the Stanley Cup Finals, the 2023-24 Upper Deck Synergy Hockey release boasts a base set of 125 cards, with the possibility of autographs making it an appealing choice for hockey enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the highly popular 2024 Bowman Sapphire Baseball set offers three colored parallels and guarantees an autograph in each box. If you missed out on the initial sale, be sure to check eBay for available listings.

Moving on to June 7, 2024, the 2023-24 Topps G-League Basketball set is scheduled to hit the shelves. This release offers a unique opportunity to collect cards from the up-and-coming talent in the NBA G-League, making it an exciting addition to any basketball collection.

June 12, 2024, brings the continuation of the annual flagship series with the 2024 Topps Series 2 Baseball. Featuring 350 new base cards that include MLB newcomers and rookies, this set offers a variety of options for collectors. Available in Hobby, Blaster, and Display boxes, there’s something for every type of collector.

On June 14, 2024, the 2023-24 Donruss Optic Basketball set is set to release, offering collectors a chance to grab autographs and a plethora of inserts and parallels. Look out for new inserts like Rising Suns and Red Hot Rookies as you crack open your packs.

As we reach June 19, 2024, the 2023-24 Panini Contenders Basketball set is one to watch, with two autographs per box from a set of eight-card packs. The Rookie Ticket Autographs are a highlight, along with the new NBA Ink Autographs that are serial-numbered for the collector’s delight.

Hockey fans can also look forward to the release of the 2023-24 Upper Deck Extended Series, which adds 200 cards to the flagship NHL set, including more Young Guns and 1st Round Rookies. Additionally, collectors can explore other releases like the 2023 Immaculate WWE and 2024 Topps Museum UEFA Club to add to their collections.

These upcoming sports card releases offer enthusiasts a wide range of options to enhance their collections, whether they’re seeking modern stars or vintage icons. From autographs to rare inserts, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy in the world of sports card collecting.

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The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is raising the excitement levels for basketball aficionados with its newest showcase – “The Vault: Boston Celtics Unlocked.” Expected to be a highlight of the summer, this collaboration with the Boston Celtics promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the museum’s collection, offering a distinctive experience not seen before.

John L. Doleva, the President and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame, is thrilled to introduce this cutting-edge exhibit. Describing “The Vault” as a temporary display aimed at deeply engaging sports enthusiasts while celebrating the universal appeal of basketball, he expressed his enthusiasm. The exhibit’s primary goal is to captivate visitors, taking them through a journey that pays homage to the Celtics’ rich history and ongoing impact.

Shepherded by Matt Zeysing, the museum’s Vice President of Curatorial, the development of “The Vault” has been a meticulous process unfolding over a year. The concept was born out of admiration for the Boston Celtics’ illustrious past and present achievements, motivating the team to curate a collection of revered Celtic memorabilia from various corners of the world.

Immersed in the thematic ambience of a bank vault, this exhibit unfolds a narrative guided by Celtic legends from different eras. Guests will delve into the core of “Celtic Pride” as they encounter a range of priceless treasures, including authentic game-worn jerseys, championship rings, the original 1981 NBA championship trophy, rare archival footage, and other valuable artifacts.

Sharing his sentiments, Rich Gotham, the Team President of the Boston Celtics, expressed his delight in collaborating with the Basketball Hall of Fame for this one-of-a-kind initiative. Beyond bringing the Celtics’ legacy to life, “The Vault: Boston Celtics Unlocked” offers fans an interactive and educational glimpse into the team’s esteemed history.

This groundbreaking exhibit is poised to be a goldmine for Celtics enthusiasts and basketball historians, offering a never-before-seen exploration into the illustrious journey of one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises. Whether you are a die-hard Celtics fan or a basketball aficionado, “The Vault: Boston Celtics Unlocked” promises to be a memorable experience celebrating the legacy of the Boston Celtics.

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Panini America, a powerhouse in the sports and entertainment collectibles realm, has teamed up with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), known for its rapid growth and groundbreaking approach in the sports industry. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the world of MMA trading cards, promising fresh and thrilling products for fans.

The partnership between Panini and PFL is a strategic move aimed at introducing new offerings to the market. Starting with the launch of Panini Instant, a platform geared towards providing real-time collectibles directly to consumers, the alliance is set to captivate MMA enthusiasts. Following this exciting venture, PFL Prizm is anticipated to make its debut later in the year, expected to become a standout product in the trading card category.

Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations at Panini America, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. He highlighted the vast growth and global presence of PFL, emphasizing the potential for this partnership to invigorate the MMA trading card sector, already a thriving segment within Panini’s offerings. The goal of this alliance is to deepen fan engagement by offering exclusive Panini products featuring PFL athletes and events.

Bryan Calka, Chief Commercial Officer of the PFL, echoed Howarth’s excitement, acknowledging Panini America’s leadership in collectibles. He reiterated the PFL’s dedication to providing top-notch experiences for MMA fans worldwide, a commitment that is expected to be enhanced through this partnership with Panini.

One of the innovative elements of this collaboration is the introduction of digital trading card collectibles, including NFTs, catering to the evolving preferences of collectors who are embracing digital formats alongside traditional physical cards. This move reflects a keen awareness of the changing landscape in the collectibles market and a commitment to meeting the needs of a diverse fan base.

The timing of this partnership aligns with the PFL’s upcoming events, including the second half of its 2024 Global Season kicking off on June 13 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. Athletes from various weight classes will compete for playoff berths and the coveted title of PFL World Champion, along with a substantial $1 million prize pool. The PFL’s unique sports-season format, mirroring major league sports, coupled with innovative technologies like the SmartCage, sets it apart in the MMA world.

Panini America, a subsidiary of the esteemed Panini Group based in Italy, boasts a rich history spanning over six decades in the collectibles industry. With a wide array of partnerships across sports and entertainment domains, Panini America is poised to leverage its global presence and robust distribution network to bring PFL trading cards to a broad audience. This collaboration promises to elevate the visibility and appeal of both brands in the competitive collectibles market.

In conclusion, the partnership between Panini America and the Professional Fighters League heralds a new era for sports memorabilia, blending innovation with the electrifying world of MMA. Fans can anticipate a diverse range of collectibles that celebrate the dynamic nature of the sport and its talented athletes, promising an exciting journey for enthusiasts worldwide.

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In a daring and audacious move that left the Knoxville community in shock, Cody Denning found himself in hot water after a heist at Underdog Collectibles that saw him making off with a staggering $22,000 worth of autographed jerseys. This escapade not only landed Denning behind bars but also left the store reeling from the significant loss and damage caused by his criminal activities.

The sequence of events leading up to the burglary unfolded with meticulous planning on Denning’s part, evident from his initial visit to the store where he meticulously assessed the valuable merchandise he later sought to pilfer. Surveillance footage captured his sinister actions as he brazenly toyed with the jerseys, giving an early indication of his devious intentions. Little did the store owners know that his harmless perusal would escalate into a full-blown theft operation.

Under the cover of darkness on May 18, Denning executed his nefarious plan by shattering the storefront window with a rock, gaining illicit access to the store premises. Once inside, he wasted no time in snatching a total of 17 prized autographed jerseys, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake. The store’s inventory took a substantial hit as a result of Denning’s greed-fueled rampage, with the stolen items amounting to a significant financial blow.

Denning’s attempts to offload the stolen jerseys were quickly foiled when he brazenly tried to peddle his ill-gotten gains at Pro Image Sports in West Town Mall. Alert staff members became suspicious of his offerings, alerting the authorities to his dubious activities. Additionally, incriminating evidence in the form of missing hats from the store, found in Denning’s possession, further solidified his involvement in the crime.

After the alarming incident came to light, Underdog Collectibles took to social media in a plea for assistance from the public. They implored anyone who might come across the stolen jerseys to reach out to them, providing specific serial numbers for verification to aid in the apprehension of the culprit and the safe return of the pilfered goods. The outpouring of support from the community was instrumental in bolstering their efforts to track down the stolen merchandise and prevent any further illicit transactions.

Despite the chaos and turmoil wrought by the burglary, Underdog Collectibles sought to reassure the public that the physical damage inflicted upon the store was minimal. More importantly, no individuals were harmed during the break-in, dispelling fears of potential violence associated with such criminal activities. As the store perseveres in their quest to recover the stolen jerseys and restore normalcy to their operations, they remain steadfast in their call for continued assistance from the community at large.

The brazen burglary perpetrated by Cody Denning serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of theft and vandalism faced by businesses, underscoring the importance of vigilance and cooperation within the community. As the authorities press forward with their investigation and legal proceedings against the perpetrator, the resilient spirit of Underdog Collectibles shines through as they rally support in their pursuit of justice and restitution.

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Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting a captivating sports memorabilia auction that is not to be missed. At the heart of this auction is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a rare find that includes the highly coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. What makes these cards even more special is that they come in their original team bags, preserving the nostalgia of how they were sold decades ago. With 288 cards in tow, this set is expected to fetch a hefty sum of between $50,000 and $70,000, owing to the rarity of such a complete collection and the undying appeal of Michael Jordan in the world of sports collectibles.

The significance of the Star Company’s venture into NBA trading cards in the early 1980s cannot be overstated. When Topps decided not to renew its contract, Star seized the opportunity and produced cards that were primarily distributed through mail orders and handpicked hobby shops and sporting events. This limited accessibility has made the remaining sets, especially those still in their original packaging, incredibly rare and valuable.

While basketball steals the spotlight with the Michael Jordan rookie card, baseball enthusiasts will also find treasures in this auction. Among them are three autographed baseballs signed by none other than the legendary Babe Ruth, one of them being a mini baseball showcasing Ruth’s bold and clear signature right on the sweet spot. These items serve as a poignant reminder of Ruth’s enduring legacy and are a must-have for collectors of historical sports memorabilia.

The auction doesn’t stop there. It also boasts other remarkable Jordan cards from his rookie season, including the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, along with a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan. Vintage card aficionados will delight in rare finds such as a 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8 and a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards featuring over 60 high numbers. With multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s also up for grabs, this auction is a treasure trove for collectors of iconic sports figures.

The auction’s allure extends beyond cards to include a varied selection of sports-related collectibles. Standout items include a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball bearing the autographs of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a cluster of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by the esteemed Branch Rickey.

Running through June 13 on the Freeman’s/Hindman website, this auction not only showcases the rich tapestry of history woven into these collectibles but also provides sports enthusiasts and collectors alike with a chance to claim a slice of that history for themselves. Whether your passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the overarching narrative of American sports, this auction promises a little something for every collector on the hunt for a piece of sports history.

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In a world where the value of sports memorabilia can reach astronomical heights, one piece stood out amongst the rest. The 2003 Upper Deck Ultimate Logos autograph card of basketball legend Michael Jordan took center stage at a recent Goldin Auctions event, commanding a staggering price of over $2.9 million. This remarkable card, designated as 1/1, features a game-used NBA “Logoman” patch alongside Jordan’s signature in striking blue ink, making it a coveted treasure for collectors far and wide.

The journey of this extraordinary card began with a modest opening bid of $200,000 on April 19, sparking a whirlwind of excitement amongst bidders who quickly recognized its unparalleled rarity and significance. As the bidding war ensued, 38 bids later, the card found its new owner for an impressive $2.4 million on a Saturday night. Authenticated and graded by the reputable PSA, the card received an ‘Authentic’ rating with a perfect 10 for the signature, solidifying its impeccable condition and exceptional uniqueness.

This groundbreaking sale not only shattered the previous record for the highest-selling Michael Jordan card, surpassing the $2.7 million mark set by a 1997-98 Upper Deck Game-Used Jersey Jordan card, but also shed light on the enduring allure and value of Jordan-related collectibles in the world of sports memorabilia. The former record-holder featured a fragment of Jordan’s jersey from the 1992 All-Star Game and marked an early integration of jersey cards into sports card packs.

Even in retirement, Michael Jordan’s legacy continues to reign supreme, with his memorabilia fetching top dollar in prestigious auctions. From the most expensive sports jersey ever sold—a 1998 NBA Finals jersey that commanded a jaw-dropping $10.1 million—to a range of highly sought-after trading cards, Jordan’s presence in the collectibles market remains unmatched and immensely profitable.

The Goldin ‘Elite 100’ auction, distinguished by its showcase of luxury sports memorabilia, featured a slew of notable items that captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Alongside the record-breaking Jordan card were two additional standout pieces: an 1986-87 Fleer rookie card and a 1997-98 Skybox Precious Metal Gems Red card, which sold for $292,800 and $298,900 respectively, further underscoring the robust market and fervent interest in rare Jordan memorabilia.

Beyond the realm of basketball, the auction spotlighted a diverse selection of sports memorabilia, including a rare graded 1890-92 John Ryder Studio Cy Young cabinet card that fetched an impressive $500,200. Notable sales also included iconic cards like Babe Ruth’s 1933 Goudey card and a unique 2017 Panini Flawless Symbolic Signatures card of football sensation Patrick Mahomes.

One poignant highlight of the auction was the jersey worn by the late Kobe Bryant during the game in which he famously tore his Achilles tendon but remarkably stayed to shoot his free throws. This autographed jersey of Bryant’s sold for over $1.2 million, a testament to the emotional and historical significance attached to such memorabilia.

Among the intriguing array of items was a pair of Nike shoes worn by Michael Jordan during a 1985 exhibition game in Italy, where he famously shattered a backboard. Still containing a shard of glass in the sole, these iconic shoes fetched $413,580, albeit slightly lower than their previous auction price in 2020.

From a Mickey Mantle game-used jersey dating back to 1957, which sold for $457,500, to a captivating mix of sports relics that pay homage to revered legends, the auction served as a celebration of sports history and the indelible impact these icons have left on the world. Through items they once owned or utilized, these sports legends continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike, showcasing the profound legacy they have etched in the annals of athletic lore.

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Two men from Washington state, Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk, have recently found themselves in hot water after being arrested and charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charges were a result of their involvement in a fraudulent scheme that revolved around the sale of sports and Pokémon cards, raking in a whopping $2 million from unsuspecting buyers.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York formally announced the charges against Curcio, 43, from Redmond, and Bondarchuk, 37, from Lake Stevens. According to the authorities, the duo engaged in deceptive practices between 2022 and May 2024 to sell these cards. The crux of their scheme involved swapping lower-grade cards with cases that falsely presented them as top-tier PSA 10 specimens, thereby inflating their market values significantly.

A standout among the fraudulent items sold was a 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan rookie card, which was deceitfully passed off as gem mint and fetched a hefty sum of $171,000 through an online marketplace in Manhattan. However, the selling platform, MySlabs, later exposed the card as fraudulent and promptly reported the issue to PSA and law enforcement. Other misrepresented cards included a 2009 Topps rookie card of Stephen Curry and a 1980 Topps card showcasing Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Julius Erving.

The scope of the fraud wasn’t limited to sports cards alone; Pokémon cards were also part of the scheme. In a particularly brazen move, a 1999 first-edition Venusaur card was sold to an undercover law enforcement officer in Manhattan for $10,500, falsely labeled as PSA 10.

Curcio and Bondarchuk are alleged to have peddled these deceitful cards at various venues, including card shops, shows, and online auctions. When buyers raised concerns about the authenticity of their purchases, Bondarchuk reportedly misled them by furnishing false contact information, attributing it to third parties.

If found guilty, both men could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The FBI and PSA’s Brand Protection division worked in tandem during the investigation, underscoring the dedication to safeguarding collectors and preserving the integrity of the trading card market.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in the field of collectibles and cautions individuals against partaking in fraudulent activities similar to those orchestrated by Curcio and Bondarchuk.

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