Shohei Ohtani Dominates 2023’s Most Graded Trading Cards, Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence Show Strong Momentum

In the realm of sports card collecting, PSA and ISA have maintained their stronghold in the industry, revealing the top athletes and cards based on submissions for 2023. Topping the list is none other than Shohei Ohtani, the MLB sensation who recently signed a groundbreaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani’s cards, particularly his 2018 Topps #700 Pitching card, are in high demand, making him the most frequently submitted athlete to PSA this year. In fact, Ohtani holds an impressive four spots in the top 10 most graded sports cards of 2023.

Amidst the consistent submissions, basketball legend Michael Jordan remains a prominent figure, with his 1990 Fleer card being a beloved collector’s item. The top 10 athletes in card submissions for 2023 include an array of sports icons:

1. Shohei Ohtani

2. Michael Jordan

3. Julio Rodriguez

4. Trevor Lawrence

5. Joe Burrow

6. Tom Brady

7. Kobe Bryant

8. LeBron James

9. Ken Griffey Jr.

10. Patrick Mahomes II

The most graded sports cards of 2023 feature several cards from Shohei Ohtani, including the 2018 Bowman #49 and the 2018 Topps Update US285. Other notable cards that garnered attention include the 2022 Bowman Chrome Prospects BCP50 Elly De La Cruz and the 1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Star Rookie.

Shifting our focus to football card submissions, the Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields has seen an impressive 119% increase compared to 2022, followed closely by Jacksonville Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence with a notable 98% increase. Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has also experienced significant growth in submissions, potentially influenced by his highly publicized relationship with the renowned singer Taylor Swift.

Rookie cards continue to dominate the grading submissions across various sports. In basketball, Paolo Banchero and Victor Wembanyama’s rookie cards took center stage, while in football, Kenny Pickett and Brock Purdy led the pack. In the world of baseball, Elly De La Cruz and Adley Rutschman emerged as the top rookies in terms of the most submitted cards for grading.

As the card-collecting industry continues to thrive, driven by passionate collectors and the allure of potential value, it is no surprise that athletes like Shohei Ohtani, Michael Jordan, and Julio Rodriguez are at the forefront of submissions. Their cards hold immense sentimental and monetary worth, making them coveted among avid collectors.

In conclusion, 2023 has seen a surge in submissions for trading card grading, with notable athletes like Shohei Ohtani, Michael Jordan, and Trevor Lawrence gaining significant momentum. Additionally, rookie cards remain a hot commodity, with emerging stars across basketball, football, and baseball filling the grading submissions. As the card-collecting hobby continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to witness the next generation of trading card enthusiasts and the athletes who capture their imaginations.

(Note: This article is a fictional creation and names, events, and figures mentioned are for illustrative purposes only.)

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Roberto Clemente’s 1962 Game-Used Glove Sells for Over $100K

Roberto Clemente’s impact on the baseball world continues to resonate, as demonstrated by the recent sale of a game-used glove from his remarkable 1962 season. The glove, which accompanied Clemente as he achieved a .312 batting average and won his second Gold Glove, received significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. Ultimately, it was sold at Grey Flannel Auctions for an impressive $118,230.

Bidding for the glove began at a conservative $10,000 but quickly escalated as 14 bids were placed, reflecting the widespread interest in this iconic piece of sports history. Clemente’s stellar performance in 1962, combined with his reputation as a Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Famer, added to the value and desirability of the glove. His extraordinary achievements on the field, both with his batting and his impeccable defensive skills, have solidified his place as one of the all-time greats in the sport.

Clemente’s glove serves as a tangible link to his remarkable career and a reminder of his impact on and off the field. Not only was he an exceptional athlete, but Clemente was also known for his humanitarian efforts. He tragically lost his life in a plane crash on a mission to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua, further exemplifying his selfless character. As a result, his memorabilia holds a special place in the hearts of fans who admired him not just for his athletic prowess but for his unwavering commitment to helping others.

The auction of Clemente’s glove underscores the ongoing fascination and demand for sports memorabilia associated with legendary athletes. His legacy has endured over the years, capturing the attention and admiration of sports collectors who seek to preserve and own a piece of his history. The sale of this glove is just one example of how his name and accomplishments continue to captivate fans and collectors alike.

In recent years, sports memorabilia auctions have enjoyed increasing popularity, attracting both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts. Items associated with iconic figures such as Clemente command significant value due to their historical importance and the nostalgia they evoke. Whether it’s a game-used glove, a signed baseball, or a jersey worn by a beloved player, these items allow fans to connect with their favorite athletes on a more personal level.

The sale of Clemente’s 1962 game-used glove for over $100K highlights the enduring allure of such memorabilia. It serves as a testament to Clemente’s skill and impact on the sport, as well as the continued fascination with the legends of the game. While the hefty price tag may surprise some, it is a reflection of the value collectors place on preserving and celebrating the legacies of athletes who have left an indelible mark on the sporting world.

As the popularity of sports memorabilia auctions continues to grow, it is clear that the legacy of Roberto Clemente lives on. His accomplishments on the field and his contributions to the community have transcended generations, making him a beloved figure in baseball history. The sale of his game-used glove is an exciting moment for collectors and fans alike, offering a piece of the legend to those who cherish his memory.

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Rare T206 Plank and ‘Magie’ Error Cards Lead PWCC December Premier Auction

In the world of sports memorabilia, rare baseball cards are a hot commodity, and the PWCC December Premier Auction does not disappoint. Two of the most sought-after cards from the T206 set, known as the Big Four, are up for auction, capturing the attention of collectors around the globe.

One standout item in this auction is an SGC 1 graded T206 Eddie Plank card. Only 39 cards have received a grade from SGC, with an additional 21 graded by PSA. Despite its age and wear, including paper loss, creasing, and damage to corners and edges, the value and rarity of the Plank card are undisputed. Its presence at the auction is significant, as it marks the fourth time this year that a Plank card has been available for purchase. In previous sales, an SGC 1 Plank card sold for $75,000 in February, and a PSA 2.5 variant fetched $168,000 in August.

Joining the Plank card is the PSA 2 graded Sherry “Magie” error card, another prestigious item from the T206 set. This card features a misspelling of Sherry Magee’s last name and is considered one of the most renowned rarities in the collection, along with the T206 Honus Wagner and “NY Nat’l” Joe Doyle cards.

While the Plank and Magie cards steal the spotlight, the auction also showcases an impressive collection of Michael Jordan cards, a testament to the enduring legacy and popularity of the basketball legend. Some of the highlights from the Jordan collection include the 1997 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metals (#/50) graded BGS 9, the 1998 Skybox Premium Star Rookies (#/50) graded PSA 8, the 1997 Skybox E-X 2001 Essential Credentials Future (#/72) graded PSA 9, and the 1984-85 Star Company XRC in both PSA 8 and BGS 9 grades.

In addition to the basketball treasures, the auction caters to hockey enthusiasts with modern gems like the 2015-16 Upper Deck The Cup Gold Foil Connor McDavid RPA (#/12) and the 2005 Upper Deck The Cup Sidney Crosby RPA (#/99), both graded BGS 8.

The PWCC December Premier Auction has already begun and will continue accepting bids until December 21st. This presents collectors with a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports history, whether it be a T206 Plank or Magie card, a Michael Jordan gem, or a hockey treasure. Don’t miss out on this chance to add a coveted item to your collection.

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Topps Unveils Tom Brady’s Unique Baseball Card in 2023 Bowman Draft

Topps, renowned for its baseball card collections, is shaking things up with the release of the 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection by featuring none other than former NFL star Tom Brady. Known for his successful football career, Brady was also a talented multi-sport athlete during his high school days, and this collection pays homage to his alternate sports path.

In a surprising twist, Brady will be seen on these cards wearing a Montreal Expos jersey, commemorating his selection by the Expos in the 18th round of the draft. However, instead of pursuing baseball, Brady chose to focus on football and played for the University of Michigan.

The 2023 Bowman Draft collection will include 81 autographed cards of Tom Brady, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans and collectors. Topps has also hinted at an amusing video to enhance the excitement around the release. Social media teasers have already caused a stir, with one card in particular catching everyone’s attention.

This standout card features Brady with a playful inscription, suggesting that if his baseball career didn’t pan out, football would always be an option. The inscription adds a touch of humor to the collection and showcases Brady’s versatile athletic abilities. Additionally, a French inscription pays tribute to the Montreal Expos, adding a special touch for fans of the team.

The highlight of the 2023 Bowman Draft collection is an autographed card numbered 12/50, a direct nod to Brady’s iconic jersey number. This particular card has generated significant buzz in the collector’s world, with a private collector already offering a staggering $500,000 for it. Alongside this highly sought-after card, there is also a rare 1-1 SuperFractor auto card, adding to the covetability of the collection.

Interestingly, Tom Brady holds the distinction of being the last draft pick from the Montreal Expos to retire from professional sports. After the 2004 season, the Expos relocated to Washington, D.C., and were rebranded as the Nationals. Brady’s appearance in the 2023 Bowman Draft collection serves as a reminder of the Expos’ rich history and their connection to a great athlete.

For avid collectors, the 2023 Bowman Draft collection will be available in two formats: Hobby and Jumbo. The Hobby format includes three autographs per box, while the Jumbo format offers an even more exciting deal of five autographs. The official release of the collection is scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, with collectors eagerly anticipating the chance to add these unique cards to their collections.

However, some lucky collectors have already stumbled upon early boxes of the 2023 Bowman Draft collection. Hit Factory Sports Cards in Arizona revealed a non-signed Tom Brady card, giving fans a sneak peek of what’s to come. In addition, autographed Tom Brady cards from the collection have already made their way onto online marketplaces like eBay, causing a flurry of excitement and bidding amongst fans and collectors alike.

The 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection featuring Tom Brady is an unexpected yet delightful addition to the world of baseball card collecting. With its unique concept, autographed cards, and playful inscriptions, this collection is poised to become highly sought-after among both sports fans and card collectors. As Tom Brady continues to make his mark in the football world, his appearance in this baseball collection provides a fascinating glimpse into his diverse athletic journey.

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Juan Soto’s Debut Yankees Card Released by Topps Following High-Profile Trade

Just one day after his high-profile trade, Juan Soto’s first baseball card as a New York Yankee has been released. Anticipating his debut next spring, Topps has unveiled an online-exclusive card featuring Soto in the iconic pinstripes of the Yankees.

This special ‘Traded’ card, priced at $8.99, is available through the Topps NOW on-demand platform until Friday afternoon. Collectors and fans have the opportunity to purchase this hot commodity online. But for those willing to exercise patience, there is a chance to find the card at a potentially lower price on eBay.

Topps has gone the extra mile to make this release even more exciting. Alongside the base card orders, they are including numbered parallel versions of the card as random bonuses. These limited edition parallels come in various rarity levels, such as the /49 Blue and the extremely rare /1 Gold. Collectors will undoubtedly be clamoring to get their hands on these special editions.

At just 25 years old, Juan Soto has already established himself as a key figure in the blockbuster seven-player trade between the Yankees and the San Diego Padres. With four Silver Slugger Awards to his name, Soto is a highly sought-after talent who is expected to secure a significant contract as a free agent.

But it’s not just his awards and potential free agency that make Soto stand out. His performance on the field is equally impressive. With an adjusted OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage) of 157, Soto ranks fifth all-time among players up to the age of 24. He finds himself in esteemed company, trailing only legends like Ty Cobb, Jimmie Foxx, Mickey Mantle, and Mike Trout.

This debut Yankees card is more than just a piece of cardboard with a player’s picture on it. It represents a significant moment in Soto’s career as he joins one of the most storied franchises in baseball history. It captures the anticipation and excitement of fans who are eagerly awaiting his debut in the Yankees’ pinstripes next spring.

For collectors, this card holds even more value. It symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter for Soto and his journey with the Yankees. As fans and collectors alike eagerly await the availability of the card in packs next year, this online-exclusive release gives them a taste of what’s to come.

Whether you’re a die-hard collector or a casual fan, Juan Soto’s debut Yankees card is a must-have. Its significance, rarity, and the anticipation surrounding Soto’s tenure in New York make it a hot commodity for both collectors and fans. So don’t miss your chance to own a piece of history and secure your own Juan Soto Yankees card today.

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The Iconic 1965 Topps Joe Namath Rookie Card: A Symbol of Football Heritage and Collectible Legacy

In the realm of sports memorabilia, the 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card holds a place of distinction. This iconic card, featuring the legendary New York Jets quarterback, encapsulates a pivotal moment in football history and has become a symbol of the sport’s rich heritage. Joe Namath, affectionately known as “Broadway Joe,” was more than just a football player; he was a cultural icon of the 1960s, known for his charismatic personality and on-field prowess.

The 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card is part of the Topps series, which is renowned for its vibrant colors, distinctive design, and the high quality of its sports cards. Namath’s card, in particular, is notable for its eye-catching layout. It features a young Namath in his New York Jets jersey, captured in a classic football pose. The background, a bright orange that fades to yellow, adds a pop-art feel, aligning perfectly with the aesthetic of the 1960s.

This card is not just a collector’s item but a piece of sports history. It represents Namath’s entry into professional football. Drafted by both the NFL and the AFL in 1965, Namath chose to play for the New York Jets of the AFL, a decision that had significant implications for the future of the league. His charisma and skill helped propel the AFL to new heights of popularity, culminating in the historic AFL-NFL merger.

The value of the 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card has steadily increased over the years, turning it into one of the most sought-after cards in the sports memorabilia market. The card’s value is influenced by its condition, rarity, and the historical significance of Namath’s career. Pristine versions of this card can fetch astronomical prices at auction, often running into six figures.

Namath’s career achievements add to the card’s allure. His guarantee of a Jets victory over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III and the subsequent win is one of the most famous moments in NFL history. This victory not only solidified Namath’s status as a football legend but also elevated the prestige of the entire AFL.

The 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card transcends the boundaries of sports collecting. It’s a tangible link to a transformative era in football and American culture. For many, owning this card is akin to holding a piece of sports royalty. It’s a reminder of a time when Joe Namath, with his undeniable talent and flair, captivated the nation and changed the game of football forever.

In conclusion, the 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card is more than just a piece of cardboard with a picture and some statistics. It’s a snapshot of a seminal moment in sports history, encapsulating the charisma of a football legend and the excitement of an era. As the years go by, the legacy of this card only grows, continuing to be a coveted item for collectors and a symbol of Joe Namath’s enduring impact on the world of football.

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Celebrating a Century on Ice: Upper Deck Launches Boston Bruins 100th Anniversary Card Set

Upper Deck, a leading trading card company, is honoring the 100th anniversary of the Boston Bruins with a special boxed set that is every collector’s dream. This limited edition release is set to hit the shelves on December 6th and offers fans and collectors a chance to own a piece of hockey history.

The Boston Bruins Centennial Box Set includes a comprehensive base set of 100 cards, highlighting both the legendary players who have donned the Bruins’ iconic jersey and the current stars who carry on the team’s legacy. The set also features five different types of inserts, parallels, and the exciting possibility of finding autographed cards.

Collectors will be thrilled to find that each base card in the set comes in two parallel versions: yellow and gold spectrum. A typical box will contain three yellow parallels, one gold spectrum parallel, and one insert card. The insert set, aptly named “Beantown Classics,” pays tribute to 20 of the greatest Bruins players from various eras, adding to the excitement and historical significance of the set.

For autograph enthusiasts, the Boston Bruins Centennial Box Set offers a chance to get their hands on a signed card from some of the team’s most beloved players. A total of fifty current and former Bruins players have signed cards for this special set. However, finding an autograph will be a rare treat, as they are included in only one out of every ten sets. Legendary players like Bobby Orr, Rogie Vachon, Ray Bourque, Cam Neely, and Paul Coffey have contributed their elusive signatures, making these autographed cards highly sought after by collectors.

Priced at around $50 per set, this centennial box set is an affordable and unique opportunity for Bruins fans and sports card collectors to own a piece of hockey history. The set captures the essence of the Boston Bruins’ rich legacy and celebrates the unforgettable moments that have shaped the team over the past century.

Whether you are a die-hard Bruins fan or a dedicated collector, the Upper Deck Boston Bruins Centennial Box Set is a must-have. With its comprehensive base set, exciting inserts, and the possibility of rare autographs, this limited edition collector’s set is the perfect way to commemorate the 100th anniversary of one of the most storied franchises in sports. Don’t miss the chance to relive the glory of the Boston Bruins and own a piece of their remarkable history.

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Joe Namath’s 1965 Rookie Card Photo Sells for Six Figures at Goldin Auction

At a recent Goldin Co. auction, sports memorabilia enthusiasts witnessed an exciting moment as a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath fetched an impressive $197,640. This iconic photo, famously used for Namath’s rookie card, not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also shone a spotlight on the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports collectibles.

The 1965 photo played a vital role in the creation of the highly sought-after Topps Namath rookie card, making it an object of desire in the collecting world. Its remarkable sale price at the November Elite Auction serves as a testament to its significant value and desirability in the realm of sports memorabilia.

While the Namath photo stole the show, the Goldin Co. auction featured several other notable items that captured the attention of passionate collectors. One such item was a 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, depicting the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight. This photograph, which immortalizes a memorable moment in sports history, sold for $17,080.

Another standout piece was a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo, which also fetched the significant price of $17,080. Jordan’s influence on the world of basketball and his status as one of the greatest players of all time make his memorabilia highly coveted. This particular photo from his rookie year holds immense value and serves as a reminder of his remarkable career.

In addition to these captivating items, a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo was also included in the auction. This photo marks the year when Woods graduated from high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. The photo’s significance, combined with Woods’ status as a golfing icon, led to a final sale price of $7,595.

The Goldin Co. auction also featured other remarkable Type 1 photos that garnered attention and bids from avid collectors. One such photo was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo captured by the New York Times. The image commemorates the moment when Jordan became the first player in NBA playoff history to score back-to-back 50 point games. This iconic photo sold for $6,100, a testament to its historical significance and its ability to evoke nostalgia for basketball fans.

Another fascinating item was a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo. This photo captured the moment when Brett was restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire after his bat was deemed illegal due to excessive pine tar. The unique nature of this incident, coupled with Brett’s esteemed career, led to a final sale price of $4,574.

Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo stole the attention of boxing enthusiasts. This image captured Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym and gave fans a glimpse into his training regime during that time. The photo’s final sale price of $3,660 is a testament to Tyson’s status as one of the most prominent figures in the boxing world.

Overall, the sales at Goldin Co. not only highlight the rich history of sports photography and memorabilia but also showcase the enduring fascination with moments and figures that have defined various sports eras. The high prices fetched by these iconic photos serve as a reminder of the timeless appeal and value that sports collectibles hold for passionate fans and collectors alike.

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2023 Topps Heritage High Number Baseball: A Throwback Collection with a Modern Twist

The 2023 Topps Heritage High Number Baseball collection is set to be released in December 2023 and promises to be a festive addition to the annual retro-themed series. This year’s edition continues the tradition of the Heritage line with hobby boxes containing 24 packs, each consisting of nine cards. Each box also includes an autograph or relic card and a box loader card, which sits on top of the packs.

The base set in this collection mirrors the 1974 Topps design and extends the standard 500-card Heritage set released earlier in the year. It features a high number set ranging from card number 501 to 700, with an additional 25 short prints (numbered 701-725) that collectors will eagerly seek to complete their sets. This high number set includes rookies who made their debut during the season and players who transferred to new teams.

Adding a unique touch to the collection are the base card parallels. These include Black Bordered (limited to 50, available only in hobby boxes), Flip Stock (limited to 5, hobby only), and various Chrome Parallels featuring 50 players. The Chrome Parallels consist of Refractor (numbered to 673), Silver Bordered (numbered to 373), Black Bordered (numbered to 73), Gold Bordered (numbered to 5, hobby only), and Superfractor (numbered to 1). A Hot Box Refractor will also be available. Additionally, collectors can find base card variations like Missing Signature, Throwback Uniform, Action Image (hobby only), and Team Name and Color Swap (hobby only).

Topps has teased more surprises related to the base set, further increasing the anticipation. Collectors can also discover 50 Mini Base Card Variations, each sequentially numbered to 100, as well as traded/signed stamped variations.

The insert sets within this collection are diverse and appealing. They include Rookie Performers, highlighting 15 first-year players, Now and Then, which pairs highlights from 1973 and 2022, Combo Cards with thematic pairings, Award Winners showcasing 2021 performances, 1974 Highlights featuring iconic moments from the 1974 season, The Hammer, celebrating Hank Aaron’s home run record in April 1974, and 1974 Topps Baseball Stamps, which pay homage to the original version and include both modern stars and era-specific players.

The autograph section is a highlight of the collection, beginning with Real One Autographs. These autographs feature on-card signatures in blue ink. There are also Red Ink versions, known as the “Special Edition,” which are numbered to 73 or less. A new addition to the High Number series is the 1974 MLB Highlights Autographs. These cards capture moments from the 1973 MLB All-Star Game and are signed by the featured player, with numbering to 99 or less.

Relic and Autographed Relic cards continue to be a standard feature in the Heritage series. The Clubhouse Collection includes game-used uniform and bat piece cards, with autographed versions numbered to 25 or less. Additionally, there will be Gold parallels of the non-autographed Clubhouse cards, numbered to 99, and 1/1 Patch parallels available for both signed and unsigned cards. Serial numbered Dual, Triple, and Quad Relics will also be available, with 1/1 patch parallels included.

The checklist for the 2023 Topps Heritage High Number Baseball collection even includes Cut Signature cards of former big leaguers and 70s celebrities, all as 1/1s.

Exclusive to hobby boxes, the box loaders in the 2023 Heritage High Number collection offer four options: 1974 Topps Oversized (oversized versions of the 2022 Base cards), 1974 Topps Puzzles (paying homage to the 1974 Topps puzzles with current stars), 1974 Topps Deckle Edge Baseball, and 1974 Topps Originals (authentic 1973 Topps cards with a foil stamp added).

In summary, the 2023 Topps Heritage High Number Baseball collection is a comprehensive and nostalgically themed set that combines the charm of the 1974 Topps designs with modern players and highlights from the current season. With its range of base cards, parallels, variations, inserts, autographs, relics, and box loaders, it offers collectors both seasoned and new an appealing and diverse collection to enjoy.

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