Sports Card Report

2011 UD Sp Game Used Soccer Cards

2011-10-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Upper Deck will spice up the Soccer card market with the release of 2011 Sp Game Used that will feature many autograph and game used memorabilia cards of some of the sports biggest names. Landon Donovan, Alex Morgan and David Beckham are just a few of the players in the set. Each pack of Sp Game Used Soccer has 1 memorabilia card or autograph per pack - 6 total packs per box.

2011 Upper Deck Sp Game Used Soccer Checklist

Some of the key cards are the By The Letter memorabilia cards which are letter patches from an actual soccer match. Many of the famous insert sets found in other sports are used for the Soccer set. Lot's of dual and triple autograph and jersey cards that will be tough pulls, but could be worth good money. 2011 Upper Deck Sp Game Used Soccer is due in stores January 5, 2012 - but that release date is subject to change.

Justin Sellers Autograph Signing Tarzana, CA

2011-10-11T06:41:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Dodgers utility infielder Justin Sellers will be signing autographs at Valley Sports Cards in Tarzana, CA on November 12th, 2011 from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. Sellers made his Major League debut this season after spending several years in the minors. Originally a 6th round draft pick in 2005 - Sellers plays multiple infield positions and could be poised to have a long career in the big leagues.

The price for any item is $20.00 which includes free on-site autograph authentication. For advance ticket sales and further information about the in store autograph signing please contact (818) 518-0989 or email sales@mvptradingcards.com

Date: November 12th, 2011
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Where: Valley Sports Cards
19640 Ventura Blvd. Tarzana, CA 91356
Contact: (818) 518-0989
Website: Valley Sports Cards

2011 Allen & Ginter Glossy Factory Set

2011-10-10T16:23:00.000-07:00

A new twist from Topps this year is the production of a 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball Glossy Set. It will include 350 cards from the Allen & Ginter base set as well as 10 exclusive cards. Topps was selling the set for $99.99 on it's Shop Topps website. Each card is serial numbered #/999 and that is also the total print run for the High Gloss set. For more information on the set check out Sports Card Radio's writeup.

2011 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball Glossy Set

2011 Topps Update Sandy Koufax Autograph

2011-10-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

One of the best autograph pulls from 2011 Topps Update Series Baseball is the Sandy Koufax Topps 60 Autograph. Two have sold on eBay for about $385.00 each. The cards are sticker autographs and may have sold for more if they were signed on-card. Nonetheless it is a very nice card and Topps has featured Koufax autographs in many of their 2011 Baseball products.

2011 Topps Update Series Baseball Checklist

An on-card autograph of Koufax from 2011 Topps Marquee Baseball sold for $900.00 (many more sold in the $600 range) as collectors are willing to pay a premium for top cards. The Topps 60 Autograph actually provides a good value for collectors looking to pick up a Koufax autograph at a cheaper price.

2011 Topps Update Sandy Koufax Autograph
Sold For: $385.00

2011 Topps Update Baseball Josh Sale Sketch Card

2011-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

For the last couple years Topps has introduced sketch cards drawn by actual MLB players instead of the traditional professional or amateur artist sketches. The result is an interesting insight into the personality of each player and also gives collectors an opportunity to own a one of a kind item.

2011 Topps Update Series Baseball Checklist

What is interesting about a few of the 2011 Topps Update Series Baseball Sketch Cards is that some of them are of minor league players who have no Major League experience. Josh Sale is a minor league player for the Tampa Bay Rays and was a 1st round draft pick back in 2010. On October 6th his 1/1 sketch card sold for $99.99 + $2.99 shipping on eBay.

2011 Topps Update Josh Sale Sketch Card
Sold For: $99.99
Auction End Date: October 6th

Gail Goodrich Autograph Signing City of Industry, CA

2011-10-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

Very few retired numbers hang in the rafters of Staples Center - home of the L.A. Lakers, but Gail Goodrich is amongst the chosen few. On October 15, 2011 Goodrich will be signing autographs at the historic local show put on by Frank & Sons in the City of Industry, CA.

Small flat items and trading cards are $39. Large items including jerseys and basketballs will run you $59. Inscription options for an extra $20 are: 71-72 Champs, 5x All Star, NICAA POY 65, or HOF '96.

Date: Saturday October 15th, 2011
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Where: Frank & Son Card Show
19649 E San Jose, City of Industry, CA 91748
Contact: 909-592-1357
Website: Frank & Sons

Elgin Baylor Autograph Signing October 15, 2011

2011-10-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Former Los Angeles Laker great Elgin Baylor will be signing autographs on October 15, 2011 at the Frank and Sons Show located in the City of Industry, CA. Elgin was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 1977 and is known to make many signing appearances throughout L.A. each year.

Small flat items up to size 11x14 are $49. Large items like Jerseys and Basketballs are $69. For an extra $30 Elgin will inscribe '71-72 Champs', '11x All Star', '59 All Star MVP', '59 ROY', 'NCAA POY 58', 'NBA Top 50', or 'HOF 77'.

Date: Saturday October 15th, 2011
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where: Frank & Son Card Show
19649 E San Jose, City of Industry, CA 91748
Contact: 909-592-1357
Website: Frank and Sons

2011 Topps Update Mickey Mantle Relic /66

2011-10-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

Just 66 copies of this Mickey Mantle relic card found in 2011 Topps Update Series Baseball exist and the very first one has hit eBay. The odds to pull this card is 1:14,370 hobby packs. Relic cards of Mickey Mantle can vary in price - and some sell for less then $60. Look for this card to hit triple digits as it's from a brand new set. 2011 Topps Update Baseball hit stores the week of October 3rd.

2011 Topps Update Series Baseball Checklist

2011 Topps Update Mickey Mantle Relic
Auction Ends: Oct 06, 2011
Final Price: $246.50

2011 Los Angeles Sports Card & Memorabilia Show

2011-10-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

On October 28-30 Diamond Star Sports Cards will be hosting the 2011 Los Angeles Sports Card and Memorabilia Show. The event will be held at the Glendale Civic Auditorium in Glendale, CA. 120 dealer tables are available at the show for $275 for the first table and $225 for each additional table. Free wireless internet is available for show dealers and attendees. Overnight security guards are provided to ensure your items are safe and sound.

Appearing Saturday 10/29/11 to sign autographs is Pete Rose from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm. Balls, small flats and upto 11x14's are $59. Large flats, mini helmets and equipment are $79. Bats, jerseys and artwork is $99. Pete will inscribe any item for an additional $20.

Show Dates & Hours:
Friday, October 28th - 2 pm - 8 pm
Saturday, October 29th - 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday, October 30th - 10 am - 4 pm
General Admission $5/day - Children under 12 Free
Contact: 303.590-8801
Email: bob@diamondstarsportscards.com

eBay Store: DiamondSportsCards

Magic Johnson Autograph Signing - Frank & Son

2011-10-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

On Saturday October 8th L.A. Lakers legend Magic Johnson will be signing autographs at the famous Frank & Son weekly card show in City of Industry, California. Just 300 tickets will be sold at the event so be sure to call 909-592-1357 to reserve your spot. Prices are: $149 for basketballs, jerseys and artwork, $119 for large flats, floor pieces, figurines and equipment, and $99 for flats up to 11x14. You can get Magic to inscribe something for an extra $39. PSA/DNA will be on hand to authenticate your item for an additional $8.00.

Orders must be received by October 6th. Time of the autograph session is 1:00pm - 2:30pm.

Date: Saturday October 8th, 2011
Where: Frank & Son Card Show
19649 E San Jose, City of Industry, CA 91748
Contact: 909-592-1357
Website: Hall Of Fame Sports

Pawn Stars Rick Harrison Autograph Signing Las Vegas

2011-09-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

Rick Harrison from the wildly popular cable television show Pawn Stars will be signing autographs for $10 at Legacy Sports Cards in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 22nd from 12pm to 1pm. Legacy Sports Cards is located on 8125 W Sahara Ave, Suite #160.

For further details on the event contact the store at (702) 341-6525. Check out the Legacy Sports Card's website where additional information can also be found. You will also have the opportunity to purchase Rick Harrison's book License to Pawn: Deals, Steals, and My Life at the Gold & Silver.

2011 Topps Triple Threads Babe Ruth 1/1

2011-09-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

This card is a 2011 Topps Triple Threads Baseball Flashback Relics 1/1 Platinum Parallel of Babe Ruth. Both the front and back feature Ruth game used bat pieces. The seller pulled the card during the first day Triple Threads baseball went live September 27, 2011. An ambitious price tag of $2,499.99 was originally asked for the card, expect the price to sell for much lower.

Product Checklist: 2011 Topps Triple Threads Baseball Checklist

Babe Ruth 2011 Topps Triple Threads 19 Piece Bat 1/1
Start Time: Tuesday September 27th
Asking Price: $2,499.99
Seller: joneshou06

2011 Bowman Chrome Bryce Harper Print Run 3K?

2011-09-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

A Twitter account thought to be Bryce Harper tweeted he signed 3,000 2011 Bowman Chrome baseball cards. This number could include parallel cards. Information can be found on Freedom Cardboard in this thread. The Topps company earlier in the day tweeted a picture of the new Harper card.

Product Checklist: 2011 Bowman Chrome Baseball Checklist

2011 Bowman Bryce Harper Red 1/1 $25K OBO

2011-05-18T23:16:00.000-07:00

One of the top pulls from 2011 Bowman Baseball is up for sale on eBay with a hefty asking price of $25,000.00 or best offer. The price tag is ambitious even though Bryce Harper happens to be the hottest name in the hobby. During the midst of the Stephen Strasburg boom shortly after the release of 2010 Bowman - his Red 1/1 Parallel sold for $4,850.00 in an auction that drew over 1,000 watchers in early June 2010.

2011 Bowman Baseball Checklist

The seller of the Harper Red 1/1 does throw out a word of caution in the auction description "Do not bid on this card if you plan on sending it in for grading." No further details were included but it's safe to say perhaps there is some chipping or whiteness on the corners and edges. Buying a card like this is a true gamble. Take a look at what happened to the price of the Strasburg Red 1/1 when it re-sold on eBay in January 2011 several months after an arm injury that ended his season.

2011 Bowman Bryce Harper Red Parallel 1/1 BP1
Watchers: (Unavailable)
View Count: 334
Asking Price: $25,000.00 o.b.o.

STEPHEN STRASBURG 2010 Bowman RED Parallel RC 1/1
Watchers: 1,033
Final Price: $4,850.00
Sold June 2010

RE-LISTED FOR SALE IN JANUARY 2011

2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg Red Parallel RC 1/1
Watchers: 110+
Final Price: $1,425.00
Sold - January 25, 2011

2011 Bowman Baseball Information:

2011 Bowman Bryce Harper Autograph Redemption

2011-05-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

I hope Bryce Harper hits .400 with 35 HR this season in the minor leagues. Set the hobby world on fire kid - because your potential Nationals teammate, Stephen Strasburg, did the same thing a year ago around this time (with a little help from Jason Heyward, Buster Posey and Starlin Castro too). Harper is doing his part to live up to the hype - .395 Ave - 8 HR - 30 RBI in just 30 games. If he continues his torrid pace - it could send boxes of 2011 Bowman Baseball through the roof - much like last season - which saw hobby boxes approach $200.00. Boxes typically pre-sell between $65-80 each.

2011 Bowman Baseball Complete Checklist

Interest in the set might be tempered a bit because the Harper retail autograph is a redemption. It would have been wonderful to see the actual on-card autograph fresh out of the pack. Sometimes those situations are out of the companies control - but you'd think the guy whose face is on the cover of the box would have his autographs inside. We'll have to wait and see if the hobby versions are also redemption cards. Nonetheless, it shouldn't hamper the sale prices of Harper autograph cards too much. Expect early prices to exceed $1,000.00.

Harper's very first Bowman Chrome non-autographed card listed for sale on eBay drew quite the audience despite being a 1-day auction. The 187 watchers were the most for any auction listed card - and the 2,518 page views is staggering for a baseball card. Final price: $135.29.

2011 Bowman Bryce Harper Auto Redemption
Watchers: 393 (Most Watched Card)
Current Price: $710.00
Final Price: $745.88
Auction Ends: May 18, 2011

2011 Bowman Paul Goldschmidt BP99

2011-05-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

If Paul Goldschmidt keeps hitting the way he has been since he started his professional career - the big leagues are not very far off. After a 35 HR season a year ago in Visalia, Goldschmidt already has 11 in just 97 AB's in 2011 playing at AA Mobile. A lifetime .325 hitter in the minors, he is hitting at a .350+ clip this year.

2011 Bowman Baseball Checklist

Baseball America ranks Goldschmidt as the Diamondbacks #11 prospect in the system, behind guys I've seen play a few times, #2 LHP Tyler Skaggs, #3 3B Matt Davidson, #4 SS Chris Owings and #7 3B Bobby Borchering. Skaggs is an electric pitcher who has a great curveball. Davidson, Owings, and Borchering all had tough AB's, many ending in strikeouts, the few games I saw them this season. Goldschmidt has possibly leaped ahead of everyone but Skaggs and has to be considered a top 5 Diamondback prospect as of today.

Goldschmidt has a few collectors out there and has cards available before his first Bowman Card hits shelves on May 18. His most popular two cards are the 2010 Bowman Platinum autograph and his 2010 Donruss Elite Extra Edition autograph #/820. Prices for the two cards have gone up moderately this season. Expect his Bowman Autographs to sell in about the same range.

2010 Bowman Platinum Autograph
Low Price: $11.49 (April 30)
High Price: $22.00 (May 8)

2010 Donruss Eltie EEE Auto #/820
Low Price: $15.00 (May 5)
High Price: $30.50 (April 26)

2011 Bowman Baseball BP99

Also has Bowman Chrome BCP99
Chrome Autographs - $10-15???
Release Date: May 18, 2011

2011 Topps Platinum Football Cards

2011-05-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some football? Topps certainly is and they are cranking out product images and preliminary checklist information for 2011 Topps Platinum Football which is scheduled to release on September 9.

All of the top rookies will be represented with autograph and event used jersey cards. The number of hits per hobby box remains unchanged from 2010 - 3 autographs with 2 being rookie cards. The top rookies to collect so far in 2011 appear to be the early round QB's - Cam Newton, Jake Locker, Christian Ponder and Blaine Gabbert as well as skill players A.J. Green, Julio Jones and Mark Ingram. 2011 Topps Platinum Football will be available at both the retail and hobby level - with the hobby boxes guaranteeing the three hits. Expect retail blasters to be priced at $19.99 with 8 packs per box - 4 cards per pack. Prices for hobby boxes could vary depending on the NFL lockout situation which could hurt the demand for football cards.

The only new feature for 2011 Platinum Football that I could see were the Platinum Die-Cut Insert Cards featuring new NFL rookies and current stars. With the threat of the lockout - it could mean that there will be no "Rookie Premiere Photo Shoot" where companies like Topps, Upper Deck and Panini are able to obtain thousands of autographs and event used jerseys. If no event takes place, Topps may have to either coordinate an event themselves, do private signings and jersey swaps, or the worse fear for collectors - insert redemption cards for jersey/patch cards. It appears as though Topps has been able to secure autographs of many of the top picks including Ingram, Newton and Gabbert. Early mock up pictures of these cards may change as Topps will want to photograph them in their NFL uniform.

More information on Topps Platinum Football

2010-11 Score Rookies & Traded Hockey Cards

2011-05-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

On the surface, it appears as though Panini has hit a winner by bringing back the popular Score line in 10-11. At just $0.99 cents per pack - hobby boxes could be found for less than $30 a box and blaster boxes were moderately priced at $9.99. On June 29, Panini will release an update set dubbed 2010-11 Score Rookie & Traded Hockey.

The Rookie and Traded Cards will be sold by the box set of 99 cards, 5 parallels and 1 autograph. 1:20 box sets will have card #100 which is still TBA at the time I am writing this. Panini claims in sell sheets and promotional materials that this card will gain national buzz and is the 1st card of this particular person. We'll see who it is. Some of the autographs available in the set are Taylor Hall, Jeff Skinner and Tyler Seguin. SRP is $29.99 and you should be able to find these wherever cards are sold.

2010/11 Panini Score Hockey Box Checklist

2010-11 Score Rookie & Traded Hockey Checklist

2011 Sage Hit Football Cards

2011-05-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

The 2011 NFL Draft is over and now collectors can begin to sort out who will make an impact in a lockout shortened off-season that may extend well into the summer and fall. Several QB's were picked much higher then anticipated and that could send prices for autograph rookie cards higher for Jake Locker and Christian Ponder.

With multiple 2011 football card sets already on the market, collectors have a wide array of choices. Perhaps the best value, in terms of buying a $20 Blaster Box, are the Sage Hit cards that have 2 autographs per box. Neither Upper Deck or Press Pass guarantee hits in their $20 boxes. The Sage cards are not the best looking, in fact, some look down right hideous. But the autographs are straight forward - sticker with athlete picture - and they are the only reason to bust a retail box of Sage Hit. I wouldn't waste my time with a UD or Press Pass Blaster Box - just pick up singles on the secondary market.

The products that appear to be selling the best are 2011 Leaf Metal Draft and 2011 Upper Deck Football. A Cam Newton Blue #/25 Autograph RC from '11 Leaf Metal sold for $225.83 on April 24. Newton's autograph from Upper Deck, believed to be short printed, sells for around $160.00. If it were me - I'd be looking to purchase guys who were picked in 2010 as they might be able to make more of an impact in '11 then incoming rookies. With the prospects of training camp, preseason and perhaps a few regular season games in jeopardy because of the lockout - many 2011 rookies may not have enough time to digest the playbook and get serious playing time. If one of these 2011 rookie NFL QB's busts out and plays well - I'd be really surprised, which means there might be plenty of buying opportunities during the season. Below is a video of a 2011 Sage Hit High Series Football Blaster Box. It's interesting that the autographs are not inserted into packs - but come in there own separate wrapper.

More information on 2011 Sage Hit Low/High Series

2011 Sage Hit Football Checklist

2010-11 Panini Classics Basketball Cards

2011-04-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

Some of the best values on the single card market are the on-card rookie autographs in Donruss/Panini Classics Basketball. The 2010-11 NBA rookie class is a little soft, but some of the top picks like John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins and Derrick Favors are a little raw to seriously contribute to an NBA team their first season in the league. A strong second season by any one of those players - could push card prices higher for the entire set as boxes dry up and single cards get put in stacks.

2010-11 Panini Classics Basketball Checklist

There are several players in the set whose autograph sells for less then $3 on eBay - shipped - that's cheap. Al-Farouq Aminu, Trevor Booker, Kevin Seraphin and Dexter Pittman are the guys I noticed selling for bargain prices. John Wall Autograph Rookies #/199 sell for around $200. Checkout the checklist for 2010-11 Classics Basketball and see if you can pick any winners.

We did a box break of Classics over at Sports Card Radio courtesy of Panini - and we did hit 2 of the on-card rookies. In fact, one was the bargain bin Al-Farouq Aminu and we also pulled Patrick Patterson. I'd probably stay away from boxes of this stuff unless it gets real cheap - boxes are still selling for around $90 online. Put that $90 into single cards from Classics Basketball and you might come out okay in the end. Collectors value rookie on-card autographs and there aren't a whole lot of sets that have them in 2010-11 for basketball card fans. Take a look at Classics, see if you can find some cheap singles on eBay, COMC, or your favorite place to buy/trade cards.

More information on 10-11 Classics Basketball

2010-11 Donruss Classics Basketball Checklist

10-11 Classics Basketball Box Break Video

2011 Upper Deck Football Cards

2011-04-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Upper Deck took a lot of time promoting it's flagship football product in 2011 as the company continues to use it's exclusive NCAA license to mix current NFL rookies with past legends in college uniforms. Perhaps the insert set that gained the most attention leading up to the release of the product were the Evolution Video Cards that were the first of it's kind to be released in a trading card set.

2011 Upper Deck Football Box Checklist

I purchased one of the Evolution cards and did a YouTube video showing it off (see below). While the Evolution cards themselves may not be that impressive, because most of us have cool cell phones like an iPhone or an Android, cards like the Evolution could usher in a new form of collecting if they continue to develop the technology. The video cards certainly aren't for everyone, but the rest of the 2011 Upper Deck Football set is your basic football card release with a couple cool twists.

I like the "Stripe Redemption" rookie cards where on the card there is a number, I think they are 5, 15, 25, 50 and 100. If you pull that card, and send it to Upper Deck they will send you that amount of rookies for the player you pulled. So if you pulled a 100 Stripe Cam Newton, send it to UD and get 100 Newton regular rookies in return. A collector did email me and made a good point - the actual stripe cards - could have significant value un-redeemed, like some of the Wild Card sets you saw in the early 1990's that offered the same type of promotion.

More information on 2011 Upper Deck Football

2011 Upper Deck Football Box Checklist

Twitter Networking Lands Blogger Autographed Baseball

2011-03-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

I was very fortunate this year to spend some time in Arizona for Cactus League Spring Training where I saw three San Francisco Giants games. If you are a big baseball fan, it is a must that you try and make it out to Florida or Arizona to catch some games at least once in your life. The parks are small, the atmosphere is great and you can get up close and personal with your favorite team in ways you can't do at the big league stadiums.

Get there early and watch batting practice from the front row, something that you can't do unless you have prime seats at an MLB game. And if you like to collect autographs - bring your stuff because there will be several opportunities to nab auto's of not only players, but anyone associated with the team. I saw kids get former Giants players Will Clark and Ryan Klesko at the games I attended as well as several current players stopped to sign pre-game. Giants broadcaster Jon Miller also signed after the game as kids would walk right up to the press box after the game and he would willingly sign.

In the concession areas behind the stadium, one of the local charity organizations had legendary players signing autographs everyday. Among the players I saw signing were Vida Blue, Rollie Fingers, Fergie Jenkins and Gaylord Perry. The day I saw Perry, I tweeted this picture of him as you could walk right up to them as they signed.

Fellow Blogger Baseball Nut was quick on the draw and let me know on Twitter that Perry was one player he needed an autograph of. Baseball Nut also has maybe the 2nd or 3rd most posts on the Sports Card Radio Fan Forum - so anything I could do to take care of my guy I had to do.

As it also turns out - Perry was my Grandfathers favorite player. I never met my Grandfather as he passed away before I was born. Meeting his favorite player was a pretty cool moment for me.

2007-08 Exquisite Basketball Box Turns Forgettable

2011-03-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

Imagine being a collector and shelling out the money to buy a box of 2007-08 Upper Deck Exquisite Basketball Box, which at the time, was the highest of high end boxes. Think about the elation you'd have if you were lucky enough to pull the "Exquisite Experience" Redemption card which allowed you to travel to Upper Deck and create your own box of Exquisite Basketball. It would be an experience you'd remember for a lifetime..... right?

One lucky collector had such a chance and is now selling their box by way of Beckett Media Auctions on eBay. Problem is, the collector can't remember what cards are inside the box. At least, that's the story. Seems hard to fathom that the contest winner couldn't remember one single card from the 5 cards they got to hand pick for the box. Here is the rundown of what is inside the box:

Base card
Auto Rookie Patch
Hit 1 Auto, Auto Patch, or Jersey)
Hit 2 (Bigger Hit)
Hit 3 (One of One)

The box is currently the most watched sports trading card auction on eBay. It comes with all sorts of paperwork and even the original redemption card. Still seems crazy to think the person who won this "experience" can't remember a single part of it. In total, there were 5 boxes given away via redemption cards - Beckett claims that this is the 2nd one they've sold.

2007-08 EXQUISITE Experience Basketball Box Pack 1/5
Watchers: 267
Current Price: $3,350.00
Final Price: $6,399.00
Auction Ends: March 6, 2011

TTM Alert John Axford Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher

2011-03-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

Getting autographs through the mail is a real fun experience that I took part in when I was a kid. It's much more sophisticated these days and there are websites and forum threads devoted to the quest of getting autographs in the mail.

I haven't sent any TTM's out in a long time, but I can remember the thrill of getting something back in the mail from an athlete. It's great when players take the time to sign for collectors and fans through the mail and Brewers Pitcher John Axford is a willing signer according to Michael Hunt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

"He (Axford) carefully opened each by tearing the edge of the envelope and, like Johnny Carson's Carnac the Magnificent character, blew inside to make sure he found every last piece of correspondence. Letters, baseball cards, whatever, the Brewers' closer took time to read, respond and/or sign everything."

Axford is in just a few card sets - all from 2010. 2010 Topps Update, 2010 Bowman Chrome Draft, and 2010 Bowman Draft Baseball.

2011 BBM Japanese Baseball Cards Version 1

2011-02-24T18:34:00.000-08:00

Trading cards are enjoyed around the world and Japan's leading maker of Baseball Cards, BBM, will issue it's Series 1 Set due out late Spring. The cards themselves are nice looking and have a similar feel to California based Upper Deck offerings from years past. BBM began producing trading cards back in 1991 and a 30 pack box of this years 2011 Series 1 will cost you about $75-$80 U.S. or 6300 Yen.

2011 BBM Baseball Series 1 is not widely produced like U.S. cards for the simple reason that the demand for cards is just not very strong in Japan. This is the granddaddy of all Japanese sets to be released during 2011 and it boasts a massive 418 card checklist with inserts, game used jersey cards, parallels and rookie cards.

30 Packs Per Box - 8 Cards Per Pack

The most popular BBM Japanese Baseball Card here in the U.S. is the 1993 Ichiro Suzuki Blue Wave #239. A BGS graded 9 version of the card recently sold on eBay for $182.00 but the prices for those cards were insane when Ichiro broke into the MLB in 2001 with the Mariners. No other card issued from BBM has garnered much attention from collectors in the U.S. but that could change if another player of Ichiro's caliber ever decides to come play in the States.

2011 BBM Japanese Baseball
Base Set: 324 Players
Base Set Parallel Cards: Silver, Gold, Holographic, Red, Blue

2010 Leaders: 34 Players
2010 Golden Glove 17 Players
2010 Best Nine: 19 Players
Recommended Hope: 12 Players
Team Checklist: 12 Total

2011 BBM Insert Cards
Lightning: 24 Players
Golden Age 88: 12 Players
Jersey Cards + Dual Jersey Cards

2011 Leaf Metal Draft Football Set

2011-02-24T17:25:00.000-08:00

The Razor/Leaf Company will jump into the pre-draft Football Card market with the inaugural 2011 Leaf Metal Draft set scheduled to be released on March 30. It's a simple and straight forward product that will feature 70 of the top prospects in the upcoming 2011 NFL Draft. All the cards in the set are autographed with each one pack box netting four autographs from the set.

2011 Leaf Metal Draft Football Checklist

Leaf is in the same boat as Sage Hit and Press Pass in that they do not own the rights to use logos or team names from the NFL or NCAA. The result is three really simple sets with limited photography. Sales of these cards usually start out hot on eBay but taper off as new sets from Panini and Topps get released. By the time a player gets hot, tons of sets have been released and collectors tend to shy away from the non-licensed sets like Leaf Metal Draft. If you sell online, sometimes you can take advantage of early hype by "pre-selling" boxes but that usually only pays off with a hot draft class. This years crop of talent is luke warm at best with only a few players getting much love for now. Cam Newton, A.J. Green, Julio Jones, and Blaine Gabbert will be the cards that garner the highest price online when the set does release.

There is not a lot of substance to the Leaf Metal Draft set, just the 70 card base set with three inserts sets. Out of the three non-licensed sets - this might be the one to go with if you like these types of products. All three will be priced similarly, between $70-$90 per box. But I'd advise waiting for offerings from Topps and Panini before getting involved heavily in any of the non-licensed stuff.

2011 Leaf Metal Draft
Release Date: March 30, 2011
Complete Checklist

1 Pack Per Box - 4 Cards Per Pack
Every Card Is Autographed

TTM Alert Dan Descalso St Louis Cardinals Prospect

2011-02-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

Savvy TTM Autograph collectors will take the time to send items to be signed by players during Spring Training. This is sometimes a great time to catch that player you've been trying to get because he may not receive as much fan mail at the teams Spring Training facility.

One player who does sign during Spring Training is Daniel (Dan) Descalso, an infield prospect for the St. Louis Cardinals. Descalso was spotted signing autographs by FSN Reporter B.J. Rains on Wednesday. The thing about Descalso is that he currently does not have any certified autographs available on the market so this is a good opportunity to get an auto of him. He has several cards from his draft year of 2007 (3rd round pick by the Cardinals) in the 2007 Bowman and Bowman Chrome Draft Picks and Prospects set as well as a Rookie Card in the newly released 2011 Topps Series 1 Baseball.

St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training Address:
ROGER DEAN STADIUM
4751 Main Street
Jupiter, FL 33458

2006-07 SPx Carmelo Anthony-Amare Stoudemire Dual Jsy

2011-02-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

The Denver Nuggets granted Carmelo Anthony his wish and shipped him out to New York in a milti-player trade package with the Knicks. Panini America will be getting the printers going for Anthony/Amare Stoudemire dual cards next season, but if you can't wait, here is an offering from Upper Deck from the 06/07 SPx Winning Materials set.

Carmelo Anthony 2003-04 Rookie RC Card Checklist

Anthony and Stoudemire have many cards where they are featured on the same piece of cardboard, but those are accompanied by another player or players as well. To my knowledge, this is the only dual card that features just Carmelo and Amare until the 2011-12 cards are released.

The teaming of the pair will spark interest in New York, but I wonder how well two players not known for their defense will fair in the tough Eastern Conference. Another player or two will have to be added around those two for any serious winning to take place. Nonetheless, it has Knicks fans excited and that hasn't happened in quite some time. The 06/07 Winning Materials Jersey card of Anthony/Stoudemire was an easy pull back in those days. Not many are ending up on eBay as of yet but maybe that will change once the two hit the court.

2006/07 SPx Carmelo Anthony/Amare Stoudemire Dual Jersey

2011 Topps Tim Lincecum Jersey #55/100

2011-02-01T13:27:00.000-08:00

2011 Topps Series 1 Baseball always brings collectors out from a winter hibernation and gets them thinking about spring time again. Topps moved up the release date of 2011 Series 1 to February 2nd which was an added bonus to baseball fans.

2011 Topps Series 1 Baseball Checklist

Currently the most watched card from 2011 Topps Series 1 Baseball is this Tim Lincecum World Series Champions Jersey Card, serial numbered 55/100. Lincecum also wears #55 for the SF Giants. It is early, and there will be plenty more cool cards to hit auction from 2011 Topps, but it's fitting that the man who helped close out last season, has collectors full attention to begin the new year. Cheap jersey cards of Lincecum can be found for less then $10 online but because the chase is on for 2011 Topps cards, and it's #'erd to his actual jersey number, this card will sell for quite a premium.

Lincecum is a fan favorite in San Francisco and why wouldn't he be? While attending the World Series Parade last year, one of the most popular items being purchased on the street were "Let Timmy Smoke" T-Shirts (pictured below). The reference is to Lincecum's arrest in Washington when he was found with Marijuana in his car after a traffic stop.

2011 TOPPS TIM LINCECUM JERSEY CARD GIANTS # 55 / 100
Watchers: 65 (Most Watched 2011 Topps Card)
Current Price: $28.29
Final Price: $200.00
Auction Ends: February 5th

$20-Month Sports Card Bankroll Challenge

2011-01-28T14:22:00.000-08:00

Sports Card Radio has challenged me to a Bankroll Challenge where we try and buy and sell cards on eBay, COMC (Check Out My Cards) and Sports Lots to see who can have the highest portfolio value of cash and cards at years in. There are several limitations to the amount of money we can spend each month - which is too bad for me because on his podcasts - my brother is known to be sports card bargain hunter and I could have blown him out of the water if need be.

RULES - Contest Page on Sports Card Rado
Each Month We Must:
Deposit $10 to invest on Check Out My Cards
Deposit $10 PayPal to invest on eBay or Sportlots

Each Month We Must:
Only 40% Of Total Bankroll Can Be Cash At Months End
Buy At Least 1 Card on COMC and eBay or Sportlots

I've never purchased cards on COMC before, so at the very least this challenge will be great because I get to utilize a really cool website for people looking to buy and sell cards. COMC features state of the art scanning technology and the companies owner was a former employee at Microsoft before giving up the corporate world for a life in the trading card industry. I logged on and purchased several cards last night and the good news is that even if I lose this challenge, $120 will be in the pocket of card sellers on that site which I am sure they will make good use of.

In 2010 - I only bought two total cards as keepers. Both were from 2010 Razor Poker - Gavin Smith and Jean Robert Bellande autographs. Is it shameful to admit I don't "collect" cards? I used to work in a hobby shop for 10 years + and back in my college days I would buy boxes wholesale and re-sell them online. My days "collecting" were when I was kid buying packs of 1990 Topps for .25 cents each. The odds are stacked against me in this contest because of this and hopefully I can rekindle my past glory as a buyer/seller.

At the end of 2011 - whomever has the highest portfolio + cash value will win all the cards and cash. At minimum the winner will take home $240.00 in cards and money but some serious pride is at stake as well. Contests will be held with members of the Sports Card Radio Fan Forum as they will get a chance to pick who they think will come out on top.

If you are a seller on eBay, Sports Lots or COMC - let me know what you have! I need to spend a minimum of $10 a month on each site and will be trying to "flip" cards for cheap profit so I can buy more. 60% of my total portfolio has to be invested in cards so let me know if you have good deals on either site. I will chronicle some of my purchases on this blog and explain why I think I got a good deal. At the end of the year, hopefully I have a few cards to add to my thin collection.

2003-04 Michael Jordan Ultimate Collection Autograph

2011-01-27T11:27:00.000-08:00

If there was one player who consistently over the past year had the "Most Watched Cards" it would be Michael Jordan. He always has a card near the top, but those cards rarely get above 150 watchers or so. For this week at least, it appears all the high end Sam Bradford cards have dried up (or been given as replacements) and this 2003-04 Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Michael Jordan Autograph #/24 is eBay's top card.

2003/04 was a good year for Basketball Cards as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh have rookie cards from this season. Box prices for sets like Ultimate Collection and 03/04 UD Exquisite Collection are much higher when compared to other years because of the strong rookie class. Upper Deck always gets their main man Michael Jordan to sign autographs for high end products and this is one of the nicest autographs from that season I've seen in quite sometime.

The seller of the card received an email offer of $500 and obviously turned that down. This card will sell for over $1,000.00 that is for sure.

03-04 Ultimate Die Cut All Star Auto Michael Jordan #8/24
Watchers: 201 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $810.00
Final Price: $1,021.00
Auction Ends: January 30, 2011

2009-10 National Treasures Blake Griffin Rookie

2011-01-22T16:34:00.000-08:00

Collectors have chosen which 2009/10 Blake Griffin Rookie Card they deem to be the most high end. The 09/10 Panini National Treasures Patch Autograph #/99 is the card of choice if you want the very best Griffin RC card. Several copies of the card have surfaced on eBay during January and prices continue to rise.

Blake Griffin 2009/10 Rookie RC Checklist

Part of the reason Griffin is a successful NBA player is the fact that he hustles like a Freshman in High School trying to make the Varsity team. A lot of his baskets come by way of shear energy and effort while other players are left standing flat footed. Griffin is also an exceptional athlete and his highlight dunks are a normal daily occurrence on ESPN's Sports Center. A good showing in the 2011 NBA Slam Dunk Contest could send his card values even higher.

2009/10 Panini National Treasures Basketball Box Checklist

On January 10th, a 2009/10 Blake Griffin National Treasures #/99 sold for $2,950. The seller of the card, tcrowntom, is one of the most respected high end sellers on eBay. It should be noted that the card sold by tcrowntom had a better looking patch then the one listed below. If the card currently on eBay sells for more than $2,950 - then Griffin's rookie cards are continuing to rise in value and may have even more room to grow.

Update: The Blake Griffin National Treasures #/99 that sold for $2,950 - the deal for that auction fell through - seller tcrowntom, is sending the card in to be graded by BGS before re-listing.

NATIONAL TREASURES BLAKE GRIFFIN RC PATCH AUTO RPA /99
Watchers: 211+ (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $2,601.00
Final Price: $3,211.00
Auction Ends: January 23

2010 Bowman Sterling Bryce Harper 60th Autograph

2011-01-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

Topps just couldn't wait to start celebrating their 60th anniversary of producing trading cards in 2011, so they gave collectors a peek at the 60 card Anniversary Autograph set in 2010 Bowman Sterling Baseball. The only Topps 60th Anninversary Autograph available in 2010 Bowman Sterling is Bryce Harper, serial numbered #/60. He has three separate inscriptions, each limited to 20 copies per card: Happy 60th Topps, Happy 60th and Happy Birthday Topps.

2010 Bowman Sterling Baseball Box Checklist

Bryce Harper will be the face of Topps trading cards throughout much of the early part of 2011. The company is probably hoping another prospect or two emerges like last season which saw card values of Stephen Strasburg, Jason Heyward and Buster Posey explode. Harper's Bowman Aflac All-American card, which was inserted into packs of 2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects were selling for around $535.00 around the time of that products release.

2010 Bowman Sterling Bryce Harper Auto 50/60 60A-BH
Watchers: 225+ (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $620.09
Final Price: $690.00
Auction Ends: January 21

2010-11 Adrenalyn NHL Hockey XL

2011-01-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

Panini Adrenalyn Hockey cards will never show up on eBay's most watched list, but the popular online trading card game could bring hundreds of prospective young card buyers into the hobby. The success of Adrenalyn NBA, NFL and Soccer might be one of the best kept secrets in the industry. Companies make huge profits on these products that feature no autograph or game used cards. According to the Wall Street Journal, Topps Attax accounts for 25% of the revenues and profits for that legendary sports trading card brand. While I have no idea what the balance sheet shows for Panini in regards to Adrenalyn XL, it could be the same cash cow that Attax is for Topps.

Card manufactures for years have been trying to find a way to draw young collectors back into the marketplace, and Panini is headed in the right direction with Adrenalyn. 6-Card packs of the NBA, NFL and NHL versions can be found for just $0.99 cents, but the real fun starts with the codes on the back of the cards that can be redeemed online. Once a code is put in- you obtain a virtual copy of that card online. Then you can build your roster and play a virtual game on Panini's Official Adrenalyn Website. The website was designed by Canada based A51 Integrated which also incorporates an area where collectors can "trade" their virtual cards online with fellow collectors.

Brand new for 2010/11 are the NHL Adrenalyn XL cards which have a scheduled released date of January 20th, 2011. I played the game online yesterday with the 10 cards Panini gives you when you sign up for an account, and it was a lot of fun...... and I'm 29 years old. Young collectors are going to really enjoy this game and it could help usher in a new legion of Hockey card buyers for Panini.

Key NHL Adrenalyn Hockey Information:

2010-11 Panini Adrenalyn XL Hockey Checklist

Panini Adrenalyn NHL Hockey Website

Free NHL Adrenalyn Hockey Codes

2010 Leaf Limited Sam Bradford Autograph 1/1

2011-01-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

Whoa wait...... another high end Sam Bradford card on fire? This is the third one this month to attract more than 200 watchers on eBay. The three things all the cards have in common is that they are all serial numbered 1/1 and have an autograph.

2010 Leaf Limited Football Box Checklist

The seller of this card, nabzy28, is a top rated seller and seems intent on getting a fair deal done right. Below, you can also view the YouTube video of the seller pulling the card which he included in the auction description. The previous sales of high end Bradford cards this month were his 2010 Topps Chrome Superfractor which sold for $14,300 on Jan. 2 and his Bowman Sterling Superfractor sold for $5,100 on Jan.18th.

Update: Obviously the seller canceled some bids before this card ended - still a great price.

SAM BRADFORD 1/1 2010 LEAF LIMITED Auto Rookie RC
Watchers: 278 (Most Watched Football Card)
Current Price: $1,525.00
Final Price: $1,475.00
Auction Ends: January 23

2010 Century Collection Babe Ruth Cut Autograph

2011-01-17T17:09:00.000-08:00

Inserted into packs of 2010 Panini Century Collection are a wide range of cut signature cards and one of the best from the set is currently on eBay. There are three total cut autographs of Yankees legend Babe Ruth in 2010 Century Collection, the other two cuts feature a stamp on the card as well.

2010 Panini Americana Century Collection Checklist

Just weeks earlier a collector pulled a cut signature of Ruth from a pack of 2010 Topps Update Baseball and expect to see many more in 2011. Reaction to the Century Collection product has been mixed as box prices are in the $150 range. Nonetheless if anyone pulls a cut signature like this out of any product you've got to be thrilled.

BABE RUTH CUT AUTO 1/1 2010 PANINI CENTURY COLLECTION
Watchers: 214 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $3,150.00
Final Price: $4,025.00
Auction Ends: January 19th

2010 Bowman Sterling Sam Bradford Superfractor

2011-01-13T17:01:00.000-08:00

The St. Louis Rams may have missed out on the playoffs, but high end rookie cards of QB Sam Bradford have been on fire. This 2010 Bowman Sterling Superfractor is the second big time Bradford card to hit the market this month.

When the 2010 Topps Chrome Superfractor Autograph ended on January 2nd for $14,300.00 it did so with over 1,000 eBay watchers which would have made it the most watched Football card in 2010 had it ended on that side of the calendar. The Bowman Superfractor also has an autograph and is also serial numbered 1/1 so it will be interesting what the difference is price will be between the two cards.

2010 BOWMAN STERLING SAM BRADFORD AUTO 1/1 SUPERFRACTOR
Watchers: 690+ (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $2,950.00
Final Price: $5,100.00
Auction Ends: January 18th

2009-10 Blake Griffin National Treasures Auto RC /99

2011-01-10T13:03:00.000-08:00

When Blake Griffin missed his entire rookie season in 09/10 it allowed Tyreke Evans and Stephen Curry to steal the spotlight away from the Clippers #1 overall pick. Griffin is back in a big way this season, and the most watched trading card currently on eBay is this spectacular 2009/10 Panini National Treasures Patch Autograph Rookie, serial numbered #/99.

Blake Griffin 2009/10 Rookie RC Checklist

Many players over the years have tried to resurrect the L.A. Clippers franchise but few have had any success. Griffin has tremendous skills and plays very aggressively on offense so hopefully they can find a few good players to fit around him. It's believed the Blake will compete in the 2011 NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend and a good performance during that event could propel his card prices even higher.

2009/10 Panini National Treasures Basketball Box Checklist

There are two other Blake Griffin 09/10 Panini National Treasures Rookie cards currently on eBay. One is at auction and is currently at $1,600 with 1 bid and the other is for sale for $2,699.00 or best offer.

Update From Seller:

Blake Griffin National Treasures RC 3clr Patch Auto /99
Watchers: 250+ (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $2,000.00
Final Price: $2,950.00
Auction Ends: January 16

2010-11 Derek Fisher Timeless Treasures Logoman

2011-01-07T16:29:00.000-08:00

Derek Fisher may not be the best point guard in the league, in fact, he may not even be in the 'top 30'. But every Lakers fan knows just how clutch Fisher has been his entire career. Ron Artest said after Game 3 of the 2009/10 NBA Finals against the Celtics, after Fisher had 11 points in the 4th quarter, that Derek becomes "the 2nd best player in the league when it matters most."

2010/11 Panini Timeless Treasures Basketball Box Checklist

Being a Lakers fan of 20+ years myself, Fisher ranks right up there with my all-time favorites. Sure there are quicker, more explosive point guards around the league, but whenever Fisher is on the Lakers - they seem to make the Finals. Of course Shaquille, Kobe, Jerry Buss and Phil Jackson have a lot to do with the franchises success in the last 10 years, but without question one of the key members of the title winning teams has been Derek.

Derek Fisher 1996/97 Rookie RC Card Checklist

I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to see that the most watched basketball card currently on eBay is this 2010-11 Panini Timeless Treasures Derek Fisher Logoman Autograph 1/1. Usually cards with this many watchers are reserved for his teammate Kobe Bryant. I would gladly spend this kind of money on a card of Fisher. He is truly a class act on and off the court and will be a Laker legend for life.

10/11 TIMELESS TREASURES DEREK FISHER LOGOMAN AUTO 1/1
Watchers: 103 (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $310.21
Final Price: $482.86
Auction Ends: January 7

2003 Playoff Contenders Troy Polamalu Auto RC /989

2011-01-05T16:28:00.000-08:00

One of my buddies is a Pittsburgh Steelers fan and I've had countless hours of conversation talking about that franchise. He'll call me up the week of a game and the first thing I always ask him - "Is Troy Polamalu playing?" The answer to that basically tells me all I need to know about the teams chances that particular week. Polamalu is one of the best defensive players I've ever seen and his trading card prices have always been surprisingly high for a player who doesn't play offense.

Troy Polamalu 2003 Rookie RC Checklist

One of the most watched football trading cards this week on eBay is this 2003 Playoff Contenders Autograph Rookie #/989. The 2003 Contenders card is Polamalu's only autographed 'true' rookie card but he does have several serial numbered copies. In addition he has a 2003 Leaf Rookies and Stars Longevity autograph #/25 that is considered an insert card. Very few of these pop up on eBay despite being numbered to /989. It will be interesting to see where the price comes in.

2003 Playoff Contenders Troy Polamalu Auto RC 175/989
Watchers: 109
Current Price: $168.50
Final Price: $326.32
Auction Ends: January 8th, 2011

2010 Topps Update Babe Ruth Cut Signature /1

2011-01-01T12:19:00.000-08:00

A Kansas collector had the pull of a lifetime in December when he opened a few packs of 2010 Topps Update Baseball. Inside the $2.00 pack was a 1/1 cut autograph of Babe Ruth.

2010 Topps Update Series Baseball Checklist

The local NBC news station in Topeka, KS - KSNT - did a writeup and video on the remarkable card on their website. There are 10 total 1/1 cut autographs available in 2010 Topps Update and the other big ones are fellow Yankees legends Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris. Here are some previous sales of Babe Ruth autograph items - KSNT estimates the card to be worth $5,000-7,000.

Signed Index Card - Babe Ruth - PSA/DNA 9 - $4,112.50 - Sept. 2010
2004 Sp Legendary Cuts - Babe Ruth - #12/13 - $6,900 - July, 2008
2004 Prime Cuts - Babe Ruth - 1/1 - $8,625 - Sept. 2005
Prices courtesy of Huggins & Scott

2010 Topps Update Series - Cut Signatures Checklist - All Cards #1/1

LCS-MM Mickey Mantle
LCS-RR Robin Roberts
LCS-JM Johnny Mize
LCS-GS George Sisler
LCS-BR Babe Ruth
LCS-PR Pee Wee Reese
LCS-WJ Walter Johnson
LCS-LB Lou Boudreau
LCS-RM Roger Maris
LCS-RC Roy Campanella

2010 Topps Update Series Baseball Checklist

2010 Topps Chrome Sam Bradford Superfractor RC /1

2010-12-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

With just one more win, Sam Bradford could lead the St. Louis Rams from worst to a playoff berth. The most watched trading card on eBay is this 2010 Topps Chrome Autographed Superfractor, serial numbered 1/1.

2010 Topps Chrome Football Checklist

It appears as though the seller 'accidentally' listed the card for sale several days ago for a buy it now price of $725.00. Unfortunately for him someone bought the card and the seller revoked the deal and negative feedback ensued. It might hurt the final sale price, but probably not much.

Bradford has had an excellent season for a rookie QB and hopefully he can stay healthy and improve in the years to come. High-end rookies of popular NFL Quarterbacks are always some of the highest priced football cards on eBay. You never know what can happen in the playoffs and if Bradford can get the Rams in then it might set up an opportunity for a pop in the value of his cards. The timing of the sale of this Superfractor is near perfect and the price should dictate that.

2010 Topps Chrome Sam Bradford Auto - 1/1 Superfractor
Watchers: 1,000+ (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $10,100.00
Final Price: 14,300.00
Auction Ends: Jan. 2, 2011

2010 Bowman Draft Buster Posey Superfractor /1

2010-12-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

Buster Posey is my guy. Anyone who helped wipe the memories of the 2002 World Series from my mind - I've got love for. Posey is right up there with my favorite current Giants players and when I saw him at the 2010 World Series Parade I screamed like I was at a Pearl Jam concert. If I pulled this 2010 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects Superfractor I might do the same thing - the card is currently one of the most watched cards on eBay.

2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Checklist

Posey had a remarkable season, winning the NL Rookie of the Year and also winning the World Series might be tough to top in his sophomore season. This is probably a good time to sell Posey rookie cards, because there will probably be an opportunity to pick them up later on at a lesser price. But if you're like me, if I had $1,000.00 sitting around that wasn't tied up in the stock market I'd probably get this card and not think twice. Go Buster. Go Giants. Don't think for one second they can't do it again in 2011.......

2010 BOWMAN CHROME DRAFT SUPERFRACTOR BUSTER POSEY RC
Watchers: 108
Current Price: $620.00
Final Price: $1,590.99
Auction Ends: December 24, 2010

2010-11 Panini Limited John Wall Rookie Patch /1

2010-12-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

The seller of this 2010/11 Panini Limited John Wall Rookie Parallel 1/1 card says it's the "holy grail of all Wall cards" and it's hard to argue with that statement. Panini is the exclusive makers of NBA licensed trading cards, and while other Wall cards have fetched large sums at auction - this one takes top billing.

2010/11 Panini Limited Basketball Box Checklist

There are so many good young point guards around the league that I'm worried Wall may never be able to stand out amongst the large group. Young PG's like Rajon Rondo, CP3, Derrick Rose, and Deron Williams have already achieved hobby fame and only time will tell if Wall can join that group. This 10/11 Limited Phenoms 4-Color Patch of Wall is the 1/1 parallel of his rookie card from that set. It's currently the most watched trading card on eBay and fans of basketball cards have got to be thrilled that the bidding has already reached $2,000.00.

JOHN WALL LIMITED PHENOMS 4 CLR PATCH AU
Watchers: 282 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $2,000.00
Final Price: $2,468.10
Auction Ends: December 21

2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Manny Machado Red Auto

2010-12-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

Fans of the Baltimore Orioles have high hopes for Manny Machado, the teams #3 overall pick in the 2010 MLB Draft. Several high end cards from the 2010 Bowman set that featured Machado in a Team USA uniform have sold at auction. Collectors get their first crack at a card with the Orioles logo thanks to the 2010 Bowman Draft Picks and Prospect set that was recently released. This Red Refractor autograph, serial numbered #3/5, is currently the most watched Baseball Card on eBay.

Some scouts have compared Machado to Yankees 3B Alex Rodriguez. Manny was drafted out of High School, so even if he tears up the minor leagues it will be several years before he puts on a MLB Orioles uniform. We've tracked the price of two other high end Machado cards that hit auction earlier this year. The current Bowman DPP at auction features an autograph and the serial number is also the pick number that the Orioles selected him in the 2010 Draft.

2010 Bowman Chrome USA Red Refractor RC 1/5
Sold For: $560.00
August 4, 2010

2010 Bowman Chrome USA Superfractor 1/1
Sold For: $1,225.00
June, 2010

2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Manny Machado Red Ref Auto 3/5
Watchers: 128 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $902.00
Final Price: $1,538.00
Auction Ends: December 19

2001 Michael Vick BGS 10 Sp Authentic RC Patch Auto

2010-12-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

The only Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Pristine 10 Michael Vick 2001 UD Sp Authentic Auto Patch Rookie is currently for sale on eBay. BGS has graded a total of 27 Vick '01 Sp Authentic cards and this is the only one to receive the near impossible grade of Pristine 10. Three other Vick SPA's have been graded 9.5.

Vick is playing fantastic this season and has resurrected his career in Philadelphia. He will most certainly finish in the top 5 of the NFL MVP voting and could lead the Eagles deep into the playoffs. This is what fans and collectors dreamed about when Vick came into the league in 2001 - he has finally been able to put his life and QB skills together and is living up to the hype. His cards plummeted in value when he went to jail but now they have risen to new highs, even surpassing sales back when he was the main draw in the hobby back in 2001.

2001 Sp Authentic Mike Vick - Grades Given By BGS

01 SP AUTHENTIC PATCH MICHAEL VICK AUTO RC BGS 10
Watchers: 291+ (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $4,050.00
Final Price: $4,550.00
Auction Ends: December 14

97/98 Kobe Bryant Precious Metal Red Fleer Skybox

2010-12-06T14:07:00.000-08:00

There was a bit of controversy surrounding a 97/98 Fleer Skybox Kobe Bryant Precious Metal Green that was the most watched card last week on eBay. The picture of the card had a blacked out serial number and was also the same picture of a card being featured in another auction. It ended up selling for over $5,000.00. This 97/98 Kobe Bryant Precious Metal Gems cards, with the red front, I would bet a lot of money is legit because the seller has over 21,000 positive transactions on eBay.

1997/98 Skybox Metal Universe Basketball Checklist

These were some of the first Basketball cards to feature serial numbering and to top it off, the set was mass produced making finding one of these cards out of a pack extremely difficult. The Kobe Bryant cards, along with the Michael Jordan and Tim Duncan RC's are the most popular cards to come out of the 1997/98 Fleer Metal set. Here are some past sales of Precious Metal 'Gem' Cards:

97/98 Precious Metal Gems Hakeem Olajuwon 'Green' - $694.00
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Dennis Rodman 'Red' - $610.91
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Steve Nash 'Red' - $432.00
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Karl Malone 'Red' - $255.32
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Reggie Miller 'Red' - $249.50
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Clyde Drexler 'Red' - $247.50
97/98 Precious Metal Gems Toni Kukoc 'Red' - $247.50

KOBE BRYANT RARE 1997 FLEER PRECIOUS METAL GEMS #65/100
Watchers: 162 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $1,225.00
Final Price: $1,580.00
Auction Ends: December 8

2010 Bowman Chrome Shelby Miller Red Autograph /5

2010-12-02T12:29:00.000-08:00

This great looking card of Cardinals pitching prospect Shelby Miller has been climbing the most watched charts the last few days. The desirable 2010 Bowman Chrome Red Refractor Autographs are serial numbered #/5 which will make the bidding hot and heavy toward the close of auction.

I'm a SF Giants fan, and although I've heard of Miller I had to go check out the stats to get a better idea what he brings to the table. When I look at young pitchers stats (Miller was born in 1990) I look at Strikeouts/Walks to Innings Pitched. The story checks out great for Miller who in his first full season in the minors had 140 SO in 104.1 IP with just 33 walks. What that tells me is he misses bats at a very high rate, even for the low levels of the minor leagues. Miller was a 1st round pick, #19, in 2009 by the Cardinals so he did nothing but help his stock going forward although it might be a couple years before he reaches the MLB even if he continues to light it up.

Here are some other past sales of 2010 Bowman/Chrome Red Refractors:
2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg 1/1 Auto - $17,000.00
2010 Bowman Bryce Harper /5 No Auto - $2,925.00
2010 Bowman Chrome BRETT JACKSON AUTO 3/5 - $810.00
2010 Manny Machado Bowman Chrome No Auto 1/5 - $560.00

2010 Bowman Chrome Red Refractor Auto Shelby Miller 3/5
Watchers: 64
Current Price: $660.00
Final Price: $680.00
Auction Ends: December 3

1997/98 Skybox Kobe Bryant Precious Metal Gems Green

2010-12-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

Kobe Bryant is the best player in the game today, sorry South Beach. His skills are superior to anyone - ever seen LeBron post up? Check that - ever seen LeBron win a Championship? It should come as no surprise that the most watched trading card on eBay is this mid-90's junk wax gem, Precious Metal Gem, to be exact.

1997/98 Skybox Metal Universe Basketball Checklist

The 1997/98 Skybox Precious Metal Gem cards came with either a "Green Front" or a "Red Front". The total print run for the parallel base cards were to #/100 and they are serial numbered on the back. The print run from 1-10 have the green fronts and the print run from 11-100 have the red fronts. These cards are always some of the most watched cards on eBay and just a few weeks ago a Red Michael Jordan Metal Gem was also the most watched Basketball card. Go Kobe!

Update: Is it legit? Blanked out Serial Number... Same picture as one listed for $30,000.00 or best offer. I'd stay away from both cards until issue is cleared up.

Kobe Bryant 1997 Skybox Precious Metal Gem (green)
Watchers: 273 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $4,250.00
Final Price: $5,100.00
Auction Ends: December 5th

2009/10 Panini Adrenalyn Kobe Bryant Autograph /1

2010-12-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

One lucky collector attended the Toronto Fall Expo in mid-November and walked away with this 2009/10 Panini Adrenalyn All-Star Kobe Bryant On-Card Autograph, serial numbered 1/1. Cards were given away in packs at the Panini America Booth at the show. Here is a complete checklist of all the autographs given away to collectors who attended the event.

Adrenalyn is a card game where collectors can buy packs for $0.99 and enter codes found on the back of the cards to play an online game against other players. No autographs were available in the original Adrenalyn XL set that was released back in February. Panini tracked down their man Kobe and got him to autograph two 09/10 Adrenalyn XL cards and those were given away at the Toronto Expo. Those cards are stamped with 'EXPO 10' on the front of the card. The seller incorrectly lists the card as a "10/11" Adrenalyn Kobe Bryant card, but the new series of Adrenalyn XL doesn't release until early January 2011. The 2009/10 Adrenalyn All-Star cards, like the Kobe shown below, were given away as promotional cards and not available in packs.

10/11 Panini Adrenalyn Kobe Bryant Auto Autograph 1/1
Watchers: 55
Current Price: $132.50
Final Price: $370.55
Auction Ends: December 2

2005-06 UD The Cup Alexander Ovechkin Black Rainbow RC /1

2010-11-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

One of the most popular sports card auctions to hit eBay in quite awhile is this stunning 2005/06 Upper Deck The Cup Alexander Ovechkin Black Rainbow 1/1 Parallel Rookie Card. By the time the card ends tonight, the price tag might reach $10,000.00.

Ovechkin is widely considered one of the top players in the NHL and his star power is right up there with Sidney Crosby and up-and-comer Steven Stamkos. This card is being sold on consignment by Beckett Media - the company will sell your card on eBay if the value is over $250.00. I'd have to go back and check out past results, but I believe this is the most watched Hockey card of 2010, and with just over a month left in the year, this might end up being the top Hockey card to hit the market during the calendar year.

2005-06 The Cup BLACK RAINBOW ALEXANDER OVECHKIN RC 1/1
Watchers: 720+ (Most Watched Hockey Card In 2010)
Current Price: $8,988.88
Final Price: $9,189.00
Auction Ends: November 27

Buy Low? Vince Young Rookie RC Cards

2010-11-22T15:59:00.000-08:00

A new NFL player gets put into the coaches doghouse each week and Vince Young is the man this time. Apparently after Sundays game, Young threw his jersey into the crowd and also had words with Titans head coach Jeff Fisher. Vince was upset he was pulled from the game after he hurt his thumb - turns out the injury is significant and Young will be out the rest of the 2010 NFL season.

His career in Tennessee might be over but Vince Young is not JaMarcus Russell, he will get another shot in the NFL. It got me thinking today about if it is a good idea to buy any Vince Young cards, with the idea that he would get his career turned around. Think about just a few years ago when Michael Vick went to jail, I remember looking at the prices of his cards and was stunned at how they had fallen from the levels of 2001-2003 when Vick was the hottest name in the hobby and the NFL. Now that Vick is back and thriving, the value of his cards have gone up a lot. Can Vince Young have the same resurrection?

Vince Young and Michael Vick are two different QB's. For one, Vick's arm strength is A LOT better, I would put their passing accuracy at the same level, although Vick has really improved that area of his game in 2010. Vick is also much quicker and can escape the pocket better then Young. The thing that made Young so good in college at Texas was his ability to run - but he was a "man among boys" even playing elite NCAA football. That gap in athleticism shrinks in the NFL and only QB's with elite pocket awareness (or the speed of Vick) can run successfully over the course of a career. Eventually, you have to become an elite passer to be a great QB and Michael Vick has accomplished that in 2010 - while it remains to be seen if Young can ever reach that level.

After thinking about it, I would have to say I would NOT buy Vince Young cards, although I do think he will get another opportunity to start somewhere in the NFL. For one, he is not like Michael Vick in that Vick has a CANNON arm - Vince Young's arm is average at best. Young also doesn't have elite speed and his average speed will deteriorate over time. Because of those factors I don't think he will ever have a 'Hall-of-Fame' type career and could be out of the league before too long. The one thing I will note is that Vince was known in college as a great leader. Perhaps if he matures a little bit, the strength of his game, which I believe to be those college leadership qualities, can shine if he is put in the right situation.

2006 Topps Chrome Vince Young Auto RC
Can be found for: $30-40 - November 2010

Steven Stamkos Rookie & Autograph Cards On Fire

2010-11-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

Steven Stamkos has the hottest Hockey cards on eBay and for good reason, it seems like he is able to score a goal just about every night. This guy is a nightmare on the ice and in 09/10 he was tied for the league lead in goals. Even more amazing is the fact that Stamkos doesn't turn 21 until February 2011. Wow.

Stamkos has always been on collector's radar screens because he was the #1 overall pick in the OHL Draft in 2006, and subsequently picked #1 overall in the 2008 NHL Early Entry Draft. Everywhere he's played he has put up huge point totals and already has 28 pts through 17 games this season. Check out this spectacular 2010/11 ITG Ultimate Memorabilia Emblem - the emblem comes from an OHL Sarnia Sting Jersey. Stamkos played 2 seasons for the Sting from 2006-2008.

10/11 Steven Stamkos Ultimate Emblem
Watchers: 71
Current Price: $152.50
Final Price: ????????
Auction Ends: Nov. 20
Not sure what happened to this card.

10/11 ITG UM10 Checklist

It's not just that cool UM10 Emblem that is getting a lot of love, the most watched Stamkos rookie card right now is this BGS graded 9.5 - 2008/09 UD Sp Authentic Autograph RC /999.

Steven Stamkos 2008/09 UD Sp Authentic Auto /99
Watchers: 57
Current Price: $305.00
Final Price: $336.00
Auction Ends: Nov. 17

Buy or Sell? Brandon Roy Rookie Cards

2010-11-15T15:57:00.000-08:00

I first became familiar with Brandon Roy when he led his #1 seeded Washington Huskies over my alma mater, number eight seed Pacific, in the 2nd round of the 2005 NCAA Tournament . Roy has the type of court skills you dream about having, and at 6'-6" he has the size to elevate and get his shot when he needs to. The problem is that Roy hasn't been able to stay healthy during his 4+ seasons in the NBA. The story is no different this season as I've read some rumors that his knee is really messed up, although he has played in all of the Blazers games thus far.

The value of Roy's rookie cards have fallen off since the 08/09 season where he played in a career high 78 games and averaged 22.6 points per game, with 5 assist and 4+ rebounds. Those are the types of numbers players like Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant are capable of putting up. Roy has the ability to be a top 10 NBA player but the health might derail his career and destroy the value of his cards. The two players who have a similar game to Roy that I can think of who got killed by injuries were Grant Hill and Alan Houston. Hill was one of the leagues best players while Houston was more of a shooter but still put up huge scoring numbers. You had to have a Grant Hill Rookie waaaaay back in the day and I could only imagine if autograph and game used cards were popular in that era how much Hill's cards would have fetched on eBay when he was the hottest name in the game.

So what do you do if Roy is your guy and you have a bunch of cards, or have been waiting on a particular card to buy/sell? If Roy is able to bounce back from injury then he could be a buy low candidate. Here are the other two top players from the 2006 NBA Draft, along with Roy, and how much their 2006/07 Upper Deck Exquisite Patch Autograph Rookie, serial numbered #/100, have sold for during the first month of the NBA season. We'll see what Roy sells for now that he is struggling, previously sales had been in the $120-175 range. Anything less than $100.00 I would consider a good buy because you can see the potential if he ever gets hot again - Rajon Rondo's Exquisite RC's have sold as high as $500+ recently.

2006/07 Upper Deck Exquisite Patch Autograph Rookie
#8 Pick: Rudy Gay $122 - $180
#21 Pick: Rajon Rondo $250 - $530

BRANDON ROY EXQUISITE ROOKIE AUTO PATCH /100
Watchers: 14
Current Price: $16.50
Final Price: $129.50
Auction Ends: November 22

Buy Low? Jason Thompson Rookie Cards

2010-11-12T23:31:00.000-08:00

I remember watching Kings PF Jason Thompson back in the 2008 NBA Summer League and was impressed with his effort and skills. He had a good couple years statistically his first two seasons in the league but has gotten himself into the doghouse in Sacramento this year, and rumors of him being shopped around are circulating. When guys get put into the doghouse, this is the time to buy cards, at extreme discounts, and Thompson is no exception as the value of his 08/09 Rookie Cards have plummeted.

Shipped to your door for $4.24 would get you this 2008/09 SPx Autograph Jersey Rookie of Thompson off eBay. That's bargain basement. For less than $20 you could put together a 3 or 4 card collection that could pay off if he ever gets around to getting solid playing time again.

These are the types of players you need to look at if you are into prospecting Basketball cards for profit. Here is a guy who has skills, has put up numbers his first two years, and now has fallen out of favor in Sacramento. Not sure what the deal is, perhaps it's a work ethic thing, we'll see how it all plays out and if Thompson gets shipped out of town. He will get another opportunity along the line, and that will be the time to sell.

2008/09 Topps Chrome Derrick Rose Superfractor RC 1/1

2010-11-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

The NBA right now is loaded with young, skilled point guards scattered across the league. Off the top of my head I can think of Deron, CP3, Rondo, Wall, Westbrook, Curry, Jennings and it feels like I am missing a few. Included in that group is Chicago Bulls PG Derrick Rose who gets as much hobby love as any of those players I mentioned. When this 1997/98 Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan insert card ends tonight, a 2008/09 Topps Chrome Superfractor Derrick Rose Rookie Card will be the most watched Basketball card on eBay.

I wouldn't consider myself a full-fledged member of the Derrick Rose fan club. I like the guy. Comes across well in interviews, he takes the ball to the rim which is the part of his game I like the most. Rose's shooting has always been a little bit of a question mark and because of that I am always a little bit surprised at how high some of his 08/09 Rookie Cards sell for. This Superfractor card from Topps Chrome is a perfect example. No autograph, no game used, just the luster and lore of the Superfractor name and this card is already at four figures. Even the seller of the card is a bit surprised: "Wow! I have had a lot of interest in this card. I pulled this card from a hobby box myself about two years ago. It went straight into a screw down holder right out of the pack." I say sell Rose now. Are the Bulls beating the Celtics in the playoffs? Let alone the Heat and/or the Magic.

2008/09 Topps Chrome DERRICK ROSE Superfractor RC 1/1
Watchers: 133 (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $1,000.00
Final Price: $1,580.55
Auction Ends: November 11

Madison Bumgarner and Buster Posey Circa 2009

2010-10-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

Two of the brightest young stars the San Francisco Giants organization has seen in many years has the storied franchise on the brink of it's first World Series Championship since 1954. Madison Bumgarner, the 10th overall pick in the 2007 MLB Draft pitched eight innings of shut-out ball and Buster Posey, the 5th pick in 2008, added a solo homerun in a 4-0 Giants win in Game 4.

It's hard not to get caught up in the spectacular performance by Bumgarner and Posey, because there is still business to be done. The Giants still need one more win. I remember the earthquake in 1989. By 1993 I was checking the newspaper everyday to see if the team could land star outfielder Barry Bonds. The loss in 2002 to the Angles was devastating. The years since have been........... torture.......

In 2009 I wanted to see first hand the young talent the Giants had acquired through the draft, specifically Bumgarner and Posey. Luckily the Single-A affiliate for the team, the San Jose Giants, play in my backyard several times a year in Northern California. I took a couple pictures of Bumgarner, the starter and winning pitcher that night, and Buster Posey, who laced a double and played great defense all night. I would have laughed if someone had told me less then a year and a half later, both would be playing in the MLB, in the World Series, and come up HUGE for the Giants. Just one more to go...........

Update:

2009 UD Mystery Cuts Tom Cheney BBQ Autograph

2010-10-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

This auction is truly bizarre. I mean it really, really is. Sound like a collector was upset with Upper Deck for taking 18 months to ship him - what was - a 2009 Upper Deck Mystery Cuts Autograph of former baseball player Tom Cheney. The seller of the card was so upset at the wait that he, yes, barbecued it with his own special sauce and now has the card up for auction. Even more shocking, it's currently the most watched baseball card on eBay and has several days left to go.

I'm at a lost for words on this one, so here is the description straight from the seller: "After 18 months of waiting for this redemption card, the anticipation is finally ameliorated! Up for auction is one slightly tasty and cooked to "Rare" Tom Cheney ownage card directly from Upper Deck, the company that cares so little for its customers. With all the payouts to players associations and dubious reproductions on childrens cards, one would wonder, is that you Bernie Madoff running this racket?"

The seller goes onto describe the BBQ process: "This is a redneck riviera BBQ sauce from my old mans recipe. It's made slow (like UD shipping), is hot (like stolen childrens card copyrights), and will probably make you sick (like McWilliam) if you have too much. I'd like to state for the record there will be no pickle accompanying this card."

To add a personal touch, the seller will even autograph the brush he used to marinate the card with. I couldn't make this up if I tried: "I may have to include the marinade brush to verify the brush strokes on the rarefied card. I will autograph the brush at winners request. Henceforth, it shall be known as "The Brush of Ownage".

2009 UD Mystery Cuts TOM CHENEY 74/74 Barbecued BBQ
Watchers: 98 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $13.50
Final Price: $15.50
Auction Ends: November 1

2010 Topps Chrome Jason Heyward Superfractor 1/1

2010-10-20T13:16:00.000-07:00

Some of the luster wore off 2010 Baseball products when Stephen Strasburg went down with an injury in late August and thus wax prices for the newly released Topps Chrome have dipped to less than $50.00 per hobby box. The price meltdown was great for collectors but bad for anyone who pre-ordered huge orders of the set well before Strasburg got hurt. Nonetheless, collectors are still enjoying opening boxes and one of the biggest pulls has surfaced on eBay, a 2010 Topps Chrome Jason Heyward Superfractor Autograph Rookie, serial numbered 1/1.

Heyward got the 2010 MLB season started with a bang when he hit a HR in his first at-bat on opening day. Strasburg and S.F. Giants rookie Buster Posey were still in the minors and it looked like Heyward was the top choice for N.L. Rookie of the Year after the first month of the season. Sales of Heyward rookie cards were strong and we chronicled many of them on this site including several cards from 2007 and 2008 that sold for over $1,000.00 at auction in early April. Heyward collectors were treated to a surprise in June when all three of his Bowman Chrome Superfractor cards were for sale on eBay at the same time. The 2010 Auto sold for $6,156.00, the 2008 Auto got taken off eBay when bidding approached $5K and the Un-Autographed 2007 version was also taken off eBay by Razor Collectibles and inserted into the 2010 Razor Rookie Retro set.

I mentioned in this post that Heyward moves his head and body a lot when he swings the bat which will make him prone to strike out a lot and go into slumps when his timing is off. That proved to be the case as the season wore on and Heyward struggled with injuries as well. He still had a very nice season and would be the top choice for the R.O.Y. award if Buster Posey didn't get called up in May and hit over .300 with 18 HR.

2010 Topps Chrome Jason Heyward Superfractor Auto 1/1
Watchers: 200+ (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $449.00
Final Price: $2,025.05
Auction Ends: October 24

2003/04 UD Legends Kobe Bryant/ Dwyane Wade Dual Auto /25

2010-10-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

The landscape of the NBA in 2003/04 was much different back in those days. Dwyane Wade was a promising rookie for the Miami Heat and Kobe Bryant was a 3-Time Champion who was trying to shrug off sexual assault charges brought against him in Colorado. By the time the 03/04 UD Legends cards were released on June 20, 2004 - Wade was at home relaxing and Bryant was deciding if he'd resign with the Lakers.

Shaquille O'Neal was traded during the summer of 2004 and Bryant remained with the Lakers and struggled through a couple season with the likes of Smush Parker and Vladimir Radmanović as teammates. Meanwhile, Wade teamed with O'Neal and won a Championship in 2005/06. The Lakers eventually re-loaded, Kobe's off-the-court reputation was restored for the most part, and he has led his team to the Finals for the past three seasons.

This 2003/04 UD Legends Dual Autograph of Wade/Bryant is the most watched Basketball card on eBay. The card is serial numbered to 25 and is signed on-card by both players. You never know how these dual autographs, pairing a rookie with an established veteran, will turn out in the long run. For example, a card from the same 03/04 'Rookie Impressions' insert set is a dual auto of Larry Bird and Darko Milicic. Ouch. It's safe to say Upper Deck got lucky with this Bryant/Wade card and NBA Commissioner David Stern is hoping the two meet in the 2010/11 NBA Finals, you can bet on that.

03-04 UD Legends Kobe Bryant Dwyane Wade DUAL AUTO /25
Watchers: 93 (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $315.00
Final Price: $504.00
Auction Ends: October 21

2007/08 UD Chronology Kevin Durant Patch Auto /35

2010-10-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

Kevin Durant has the hottest Basketball cards on the market right now. Consistently over the past couple months his cards have reigned supreme as the most watched Basketball trading cards. Currently the most watched card on eBay is this 2007/08 Upper Deck Chronology 'Stitches in Time' Patch Autograph, serial numbered 25/35. On October 17th a 07/08 UD Hot Prospects Rookie Patch Auto sold for $255.00 and that card was also one of the top Basketball cards on eBay.

Kevin Durant 2007/08 Rookie Card Checklist

The Chronology card is not a 'true' rookie card of Durant, but the card was made during his rookie season of 07/08. Other names from the 30 card Stitches in Time insert set are: Chris Mullin, George Gervin, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Walt Frazier. Parallels of the cards exist and are serial numbered to 25, 15, 5 and 1.

The seller of the card, cmeloman15 notes, "this guy (Durant) is further along than both Kobe and Lebron at this stage in his career." While that point is debatable, I will say that players like Kobe and Michael Jordan have/had a desire to win that is found in just a small fraction of the elite players. For every Kobe and Jordan, we've seen guys like Tracy McGrady, Steve Francis and Vince Carter fail to ever have the competitive drive that is necessary to win in the NBA and remain a longtime hobby mainstay. It remains to be seen if Durant has that 'killer instinct'.

2007-08 UD Chronology Auto Patch Kevin Durant RC 25/35
Watchers: 100 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $375.00
Final Price: $654.00
Auction Ends: October 19

2001 Bowman Chrome Cody Ross Gold Refractor /99

2010-10-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

October is a special time for card collectors because it seems like every year a player who nobody was buying becomes hobby relevant. San Francisco Giants outfielder Cody Ross has got collectors everywhere digging through old boxes of junk to see if they have a nice Cody Ross card to put up on eBay. There aren't a whole lot of 2001 Cody Ross Rookie Cards, but his Bowman Chrome Gold Refractor, serial numbered #/99, is the rookie that will fetch the most at auction.

I am a long time Giants fan and couldn't be happier for Cody and I hope he continues to hit homeruns every night because the Phillies have got a stacked lineup with some great pitching as well. I would imagine Ross won't see an inside fastball for quite sometime because all 3 of his HR's were middle-in fastballs at the edge of the plate. As far as his trading cards go, this is a great time to sell anything and everything Cody Ross. Put together a nice lot with any and all cards you can find. If you do happen to have some of his 2001 rookies, or a modern autograph or game used card, this would be the time to part ways with it. Chances are, you can always buy it back next season at a steep discount. Ross is not considered a prospect, but will probably earn a starting job somewhere, possibly with the Giants, because of his stellar play thus far in the 2010 MLB Playoffs.

This 2001 Bowman Chrome Cody Ross Gold Refractor Rookie is serial numbered #99. To put the price in perspective, in September 2010, a Troy Tulowitzki 2005 Bowman Chrome Gold Refractor, serial numbered #/50 sold for $306.00. I think most everyone would agree that Tulowitzki is the far better player in the long term, and possibly might be a Hall-of-Fame type talent. If this Ross card even approaches $100.00 that is a great win for the seller.

2001 Bowman Chrome Cody Ross RC Gold Refractor 47/99
Watchers: 20
Current Price: $32.50
Final Price: $44.00
Auction Ends: October 19

2007/08 Kevin Durant Rookie Patch Autograph Hot Prospects

2010-10-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

Usually, even the most popular players in the NBA have 'haters' who will take every opportunity to bash that player to anyone and everyone who has an ear. LeBron James has his fair share of detractors, especially after the wild free agent summer of 2010. The games best player, Kobe Bryant, keeps proving his doubters wrong year after year and is just one short of Michael Jordan's six championship rings. You can bet there are Kobe haters everywhere who would give anything to make sure Kobe doesn't match, or even pass Jordan in Championships. One thing I have noticed though, is the lack of 'haters' Kevin Durant has, everyone seems to love this guy. His popularity and the value of his 2007/08 rookie cards have steadily climbed in 2010 after he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to the first round of the NBA playoffs. He is a front runner to win the 2010/11 NBA MVP award if he can best his performance from 09/10.

There was a lull, maybe from late 2008 through the 2009 season, where prices were really soft for 07/08 rookies and boxes because #1 overall pick Greg Oden was continuously hurt and while Durant played well in Seattle, the fan base was dwindling. Eventually, the Sonics were forced to move to Oklahoma City because of a horrid lease they had signed with the arena in Seattle. Once the fan base got rolling in Oklahoma, the love for Durant started to trickle out to the rest of country. Last season was a breakout year for Durant and collectors who waited patiently were rewarded by a boost in the value of his rookie cards.

2007-08 Kevin Durant Hot Prospects Auto Jersey RC /399
Watchers: 54
Current Price: $168.50
Final Price: $255.00
Auction Ends: October 17

October 17th Baseball Card Show - Findlay, Ohio

2010-10-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

Back again is Awesome Card Shop with another one of their monthly Sports Card Shows in Findlay, OH. The October edition will be held on Sunday the 17th at the same location and times as their last successful shows. Look for boxes to be ripped open and put on YouTube if you can't make the event.

Baseball Card Show Details
The Knights of Columbus Hall
701 West Main Cross Street
Findlay, Ohio
Date: Sunday - October 17, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
FREE ADMISSION

For more information:
Visit AwesomeSportsCards on Twitter
Awesome Sports Cards Facebook Page

2010 Triple Threads Mickey Mantle Roger Maris Cut Relic

2010-10-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

One of the huge product hits has been pulled from 2010 Topps Triple Threads Baseball, a spectacular Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris 'Cut Above" Dual Autograph Relic card. It's currently the most watched trading card on eBay and has New York Yankee collectors salivating at the thought of owing this gem.

The 2009 Triple Threads Baseball Set didn't go without controversy when hobby bloggers and collectors were concerned about the authenticity of a 2009 Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig Dual Autograph Relic. Topps probably made 100% sure this time around that they got the real deal on all their high end cut autographs that were included into 2010 Triple Threads Baseball. Some of the other key cut signatures in the product are: Babe Ruth /Ty Cobb, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama.

2010 Topps Triple Threads Baseball Checklist

The cut signature of Roger Maris appears to be from a letter or piece of paper because you can see "Best Wishes" inscribed above his autograph. Mantle's auto might be from a picture or perhaps an old signed baseball card. Both are very clear, it's just a bummer Topps wasn't able to include Mantle's full signature because part of the 'M' in Mickey and the 'E' in Mantle are cut off from the border of the card.

2010 Topps Triple Threads Mantle/Maris Dual Autographs
Watchers: 316 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $2,146.00
Final Price: $2,275.00
Auction Ends: October 18

2009 Triple Threads Walter Payton Jumbo Patch Book

2010-10-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

Walter Payton is without question one of the greatest running backs to ever play in the NFL and his premium trading cards are always some of the most watched on eBay. This 2009 Topps Triple Threads Jumbo Patch Relic Book Card, being sold on consignment by Beckett Media, has every big time Payton collector on full attention and bidding should be fierce toward the close of the auction.

I've taken a look at a few of Payton's high end cards in the past so it will be interesting to see what price the '09 Triple Threads Book Card fetches. All of the other Payton cards I've written about have either been his 1976 Topps Rookie or a game used card with an autograph also included. The Triple Threads card is just a game used card and is serial numbered 1/1.

1976 Topps Football Walter Payton #148 PSA 10 - Sold For: $3,787.00 - February 2010
1999 SP Authentic Walter Payton Jersey Autograph /34 - Sold For: $1,225.00 - February 2010
1998 Walter Payton Topps Stars Autograph BGS 10 - Sold For: $1,725.00 February 2010
1997 Walter Payton UD Legends Autograph SP - Sold For: $2,146.00 - March 2010

The card was pulled by a collector and is being sold on consignment by Beckett Media. The leading publisher of hobby magazines will sell your cards on eBay if the card is valued over $250.00. Visit Beckett's My World Page on eBay and send them a question if you would like any additional information on this service.

2009 Topps Triple Threads WALTER PAYTON Jumbo Patch 1/1
Watchers: 64
Current Price: $515.00
Final Price: $616.00
Auction Ends: October 17

2010/11 Panini Prestige DeMarcus Cousins Rookie Autograph /249

2010-10-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

NBA Basketball cards from Panini have already hit hobby shops and the debut set, 2010/11 Prestige, has gotten some love from collectors on eBay during the first week of sales. Wizards #1 overall pick John Wall and Sacramento Kings big man DeMarcus Cousins are the two rookies getting the most attention so far.

2010/11 Panini Prestige Basketball Checklist

It's been many years since the Kings were a competitive team in the Western Conference but the organization remains hopeful that the pairing of Cousins and 2009/10 NBA Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans will bring back the glory days in Sacramento. Cousins played well in the NBA Summer League but will have to keep his large body in shape to be a force in the NBA. The NCAA College Basketball season is only 30+ games long while the NBA is 82, plus any additional playoff games. There are some NBA writers and experts that wonder if Cousins has the motivation and drive to be a superstar in the league.

The early pricing for the new NBA rookies is always interesting to monitor and will fluctuate drastically as more sets are released and the players eventually hit the hardwood. Tyreke Evans and Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry were the two top sellers from the 2009/10 freshman class which proves that rookies from small market teams can still get respect in the hobby. If there are any sleeper NBA rookies that you like heading into the 10/11 season then you might want to check the prices of their Prestige rookie now to get an idea how much they are selling for before games are even played.

10/11 Prestige Auto DeMarcus Cousins 246/249
Watchers: 48
Current Price: 46.99
Final Price: $72.00
Auction Ends: October 8th

2001 Sp Authentic Michael Vick Rookie Auto Patch /250

2010-09-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Since his debut in 2001, the value of Michael Vick's rookie cards have seen huge fluctuations in price as he has experienced the highs and lows in life and the highs and lows as a QB in the NFL. His 2001 Sp Authentic rookie was one of the hottest cards I remember from that era with the patch and autograph combination being groundbreaking at the time. Vick never quite lived up to the enormous hype in Atlanta and the dog fighting conviction eventually plummeted the price for the 2001 Sp Authentic Patch Autograph Rookie to under $200.00.

Michael Vick 2001 Rookie RC Card Checklist

Vick was forced into the lineup when Eagles starting QB Kevin Kolb went down early in week 1 with a concussion and Vick's play during the first three weeks will keep Kolb on the bench for the foreseeable future. The value of Mike Vick rookie cards has risen steadily since his return to the NFL, but they have really gotten a boost in the last few weeks and this 2001 Sp Authentic, serial numbered #/250, is one of the most watched cards on eBay.

2001 SP Authentic Michael Vick RC AUTO Patch 178/250
Watchers: 136 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $277.00
Final Price: $687.00
Auction Ends: October 7

2010 Topps Platinum Jahvid Best Rookie Jumbo Patch /10

2010-09-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

Detroit Lions RB Jahvid Best has been a huge threat out of the backfield and already has 5 touchdowns through the first two weeks of the 2010 NFL regular season. Collectors are jumping aboard the Best Bandwagon and one of his most popular cards from 2010 Topps Platinum is for sale on eBay.

2010 Topps Platinum Football Checklist

The 2010 Topps Platinum Jumbo Patch Autograph cards feature a prime piece of event or game worn jersey. All the rookies in the set have event worn jerseys from the 2010 NFL Rookie Premiere Photo Shoot. Some of the players with game used jerseys from the Platinum Jumbo Patch set are: Reggie Bush, John Elway, and Chad Ochocinco.

Jahvid Best has a chance to be a top NFL running back and might be able to help turn the fortunes of the Lions around. He may not put up huge rushing yard totals, but he will catch a lot of passes and that will boost his overall numbers. If he can continue to play well and the Lions can improve it will drive the prices for his rookie cards even higher. Keep in mind he ran very well against two teams that have notoriously been good at stopping the running game in the past, Philadelphia and Chicago. If the Lions can put some wins together then that might create more buzz for Best which will elevate the value of his rookie cards even higher.

2010 TOPPS PLATINUM PATCH AUTO JAHVID BEST 1/10
Watchers: 58
Current Price: $212.50
Final Price: $355.00
Auction Ends: September 20

2005 Troy Tulowitzki Rookie Bowman Chrome Gold /50

2010-09-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

Being a fan of the SF Giants, I get to see Colorado Rockies star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki play quite often and am always very impressed at his ability both on offense and defense. Troy is taller then most SS, but he moves very well and his arm is as good as any player who plays the position. His bat has really heated up during September and has already hit 13 HR's this month alone as he tries to get the Rockies into the National League playoffs.

Troy Tulowitzki 2005 Rookie Card Checklist

Collectors interest in Tulowitzki has also stared to heat up this month as several high end cards have hit eBay. This 2005 Bowman Chrome Gold Refractor, serial numbered #/50, is not the most popular Tulowitzki card at auction, but it is his most watched rookie card. It will be interesting to see what price this card fetches because on September 13, a BGS graded 9.5 Troy Tulowitzki Gold Refractor sold for $315.00. Wow, this card is ungraded and just 5 days later almost matches the price!

2005 TROY TULOWITZKI BOWMAN CHROME GOLD REF RC #04/50
Watchers: 48
Current Price: $188.00
Final Price: $306.61
Auction Ends: September 18

2007 UD Exquisite Brandon Jackson Rookie Auto /99

2010-09-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Green Bay Packers running back Ryan Grant went down with an ankle injury during week one which opens the door for Brandon Jackson to get increased work on the football field and collectors would be well advised to search their stacks for any of his 2007 rookie cards.

Jackson is a former star at the University of Nebraska and was a 2nd round pick by the Packers in the 2007 NFL Draft. He's played off and on since his rookie season in '07 but has mostly served as a backup to Grant. This might be a great time to sell high on Jackson because the shelf life of NFL running backs is typically short and sweet. The Packers are a high profile team and fans of the team spend big bucks on cards as evident earlier this month when an Aaron Rodgers 2005 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Autograph 1/1 sold for $2,570.00. I am not convinced Jackson will be as productive as Grant was and that's why I would look to move any Brandon Jackson cards a.s.a.p. It's too bad Dimitri Nance, a RB the Packers just signed off the Atlanta Falcons practice squad, does not have any rookie cards because he might be a guy who ends up getting some carries if/when Jackson wears down.

Rookie cards of Brandon Jackson have began to heat up on eBay and one of the most popular RC's for sale is his 2007 Upper Deck Exquisite Autograph /99. If Jackson runs well the next couple weeks look for prices to continue to rise. Take advantage of this upswing and sell any Jackson cards in your collection and put a few dollars in your pocket.

2007 Exquisite RC Auto 3Clr Patch Brandon Jackson /99
Watchers: 24
Current Price: $96.55
Final Price: $155.63
Auction Ends: September 15

2009 Arian Foster Rookie Card Watch

2010-09-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

I remember picking up Houston Texans RB Arian Foster in one of my fantasy football leagues....... last year...... because he was going to get some work in a game. He promptly came in and fumbled and went straight into the coaches doghouse for the remainder of the season. It's safe to say Foster is out of the doghouse and into the proverbial penthouse with his 231 yard 3 TD performance in week one of the 2010 NFL season against the Indianapolis Colts.

Arian Foster 2009 rookies are the hottest football cards on eBay at the moment. Foster has 23 cards and 4 1/1's available in the 2009 Press Pass Football set. In addition to those cards, just 13 "true" rookie cards were made of Foster during the 2009 season but over 125 parallels, inserts and 1/1 cards were also produced. Here is the complete list of the 13 NFL licensed Arian Foster rookie cards:

*Note - Absolute Memorabilia and Donruss Threads each have retail versions*
Check the link to see what they sell for on eBay:

2009 Bowman Chrome Aroldis Chapman Superfractor RC /1

2010-09-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

Aroldis Chapman made his MLB debut and the radar gun was popping off the charts with speeds as high as 105 MPH. With fellow mega-prospect Stephen Strasburg on the shelf with Tommy John surgery, the collecting world turns to Chapman to see if he can fill the void.

A 2009 Bowman Chrome Aroldis Chapman Superfractor 1/1 graded BGS 9 currently is creeping up the charts of the most watched baseball cards on eBay. The price is already a staggering $5K, even though this card has no autograph or memorabilia piece. In 2009 Chapman had yet to sign with an MLB team, but Topps could produce his first cards because he played in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). The Superfractor parallels, serial numbered 1/1, are some of the most sought after cards in the industry.

A couple things concern me about investing in someone like Chapman, one being the recent example of Strasburg going down with arm trouble. Will Chapman be able to keep throwing it 100 MPH + for most of his career without similar arm trouble? Also, I am not sure if Chapman speaks English or not but that does play a role in collecting because fans want to relate to the player they are buying. Not that Strasburg gave the best interviews, but he articulated himself well and that helped fuel the demand for his cards. But, throwing the ball 105 MPH can translate to all languages and if Chapman can keep bringing the heat he will be a hot name in the hobby until his arm wears out.

UPDATE: Card is for sale again "because the winner of the last auction has backed out of the deal." Here is the rundown on the new auction.

2009 Bowman Chrome Aroldis Chapman SUPERFRACTOR 1/1 Re-Listed
Watchers: 52
Current Price: $192.50
Final Price: $715.87
Auction Ends: September 19

2009 Bowman Chrome Aroldis Chapman SUPERFRACTOR 1/1
Watchers: 164 (Most Watched Trading Card)
Current Price: $5,100.00
Final Price: ???????????
Auction Ends: September 10

2010 Topps Ndamukong Suh Sketch Card Autograph /1

2010-09-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

When I spent some time in Nebraska this summer for the College World Series, the topic of conversation would usually steer toward football, and specifically the Nebraska Cornhuskers. The people in Omaha loved Ndamkong Suh and they are eagerly anticipating his NFL debut with the Detroit Lions.

Suh payed homage to his former college on his 2010 Topps Sketch card by inscribing "Huskers 93" on the front. The card is serial numbered 1/1 and has an autograph on the back. These cards were obtained by Topps at the 2010 NFL Rookie Premiere Photo Shoot, and inserted into packs of 2010 Topps Football. Earlier this month a Tim Tebow Sketch card sold for $752.37. Before I took my trip to Nebraska I was surprised to see how high Ndamkong Suh's rookie cards were selling for, specifically the 2010 Press Pass Autographs were selling for as high as $70 when the set was first released. My guess is that many of Suh's rookie cards end up in the state of Nebraska because no matter what type of career he has in the NFL he will always have a huge fan base from that area.

2010 Topps NDAMUKONG SUH Sketch AUTO 1/1 Autograph
Watchers: 64
Current Price: $128.09
Final Price: $142.50
Auction Ends: September 5

2008 UD Exquisite Jamaal Charles Rookie Auto Patch /75

2010-09-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

I have a vested interest in Jamaal Charles this season as I took him in the 3rd round in one of my fantasy football leagues. Collectors may want to start taking a look at the Kansas City Chiefs running back because his cards could be poised for a huge pop if he runs wild this season.

Coming into the 2010 season, Charles was in the coaches doghouse because he came into camp apparently out of shape and even less motivated. Old man Thomas Jones was brought in to share some of the workload and the carries might be split 50/50 to start the season. The last four games of 2009 Charles flashed the potential that made him a 3rd round pick in 2008, his rushing yards in those games were: 143, 154, 102 and a 25 carry - 259 yard - 2 TD performance to cap off the season.

A 2008 Upper Deck Exquisite Jamaal Charles rookie autographed patch card is treading toward the bottom of the most watched cards on eBay. Take a look at the prices for Chris Johnson's 2008 Exquisite rookie card during the time he was on his way to a 2000 yard season in '09. You'll notice that the serial numbered versions to /75 were selling for around $200-450 depending on how nice the card was. The three and four color patch cards will command a premium on eBay. This Charles 08 UD Exquisite RC is only a two color patch, but if the price is right and he runs well in 2010 the investment could pay off huge in a few short months. Also note that the card is serial numbered 25/75 and Charles currently wears #25 for the Chiefs although on the card he is wearing #29.

Update: Card taken off eBay by the seller.

08 Exquisite JAMAAL CHARLES Auto RC Patch 25/75
Watchers: 44
Current Price: $26.00
Final Price: ???????
Auction Ends: September 5

2005 Bowman Chrome Aaron Rodgers Gold Autograph /1

2010-09-02T02:33:00.000-07:00

Prices for 2005 Aaron Rodgers rookie cards have steadily climbed the last couple months with collectors and fans anticipating another big year from the Packers QB. In July, Sports Card Radio ranked his RC's as the #1 hottest football cards on eBay and to get September started a huge hit from '05 Bowman Chrome is currently for sale on eBay.

The gold refractor parallels are serial numbered 1/1 (stamped on the back) and a big sticker autograph of Rodgers is on the front of the card. It's the most watched trading card on eBay across all sports and bidding is fast approaching $2k. Autograph rookie cards of popular QB's explode in value when that player is hot. Rodgers is being drafted very high in fantasy football leagues and the Packers appear to have one of the better teams on paper going into the 2010 NFL season. All this bodes well for collectors who bought cards of Rodgers when he was backing up Brett Favre from 2005-2007 because prices have been climbing since 2008 when Aaron took over as starter.

Most of that product from 2005 is fairly dreadful if I remember right. I've opened some of the Bowman Chrome and a lot of the Finest from that year and the rookie class is really thin. Rodgers has emerged as the big name and sellers should be taking every opportunity to cash in and sell high if that's what they choose to do. Also, if you sell boxes on eBay, be sure to take a look at the wholesale pricing for the 2005 products to see if you can now hype it up and sell it for a profit. The stuff from 2005 was dirt cheap for a few years and some wholesalers don't update their pricing as much as others so you might be able to find a good deal. 2005 Finest Football boxes have 3 mini boxes and a box topper which can all be re-sold individually for profit if you can get the right price. Make sure to mention that Rodgers rookie cards have gone through the ceiling the last couple months to entice bidders.

2005 BOWMAN CHROME AARON RODGERS RC AUTO TRUE 1/1
Watchers: 412
Current Price: $1,985.00
Final Price: $2,570.00
Auction Ends: September 8

Sports Card Show - Findlay, OH September 5th

2010-08-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

Awesome Card Shop will be hosting another baseball card show in Findlay, OH on September 5th at the K of C Hall. I've heard through the grapevine that their last show was a rousing success and if you live anywhere nearby you'll want to check out the September show.

Baseball Card Show Details
The Knights of Columbus Hall
701 West Main Cross Street
Findlay, Ohio
Date: Sunday - September 5, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
FREE ADMISSION

For more information:
Visit AwesomeSportsCards on Twitter
Awesome Sports Cards Facebook Page

2010 Topps Tim Tebow Sketch Card Autograph 1/1

2010-08-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

There will be hundreds of Tim Tebow rookie cards released this season but few will be as unique as the 2010 Topps Sketch card, autographed and serial numbered 1/1. The sketch appears to be Tebow doodling possibly his favorite play and collectors will be lining up to get this 1/1 treasure.

2010 Topps Football Checklist

Topps has come out with a bang in 2010 with their inaugural release of the year, it's classic Topps set, and it has been a huge hit thus far. One of the most popular football cards on eBay last week was a Tim Tebow/John Elway dual autograph serial numbered /25. Bidding topped out at $265.00 and I am sure many more dual auto's will make there way onto eBay in the coming months. If I had to take a guess, I would think that the bidding for this 1/1 sketch card will fetch more then the Elway/Tebow dual autograph, but maybe collectors would rather have a dual autograph instead, we shall see.

2010 TOPPS TIM TEBOW PLAYER SKETCH AUTO ART CARD 1/1
Watchers: 133
Current Price: $149.50
Final Price: $752.37
Auction Ends: September 2

2010 Bowman Chrome Bryce Harper Red BGS 9.5

2010-08-28T23:19:00.000-07:00

The Washington Nationals were dealt a devastating blow earlier this week when they learned that prized pitcher Stephen Strasburg will have to undergo Tommy John surgery, effectively ending his season and putting 2011 in doubt as well. Nationals fans will turn their lonely eyes to the teams 2010 number one overall pick, Junior College Phenom Bryce Harper, and hope he can live up to the hype that has buzzing around him for years.

Collectors also felt the aftermath of the Strasburg injury, as all of his rookie cards have plummeted in value to record lows with sellers now willing to accept anything they can get. Bryce Harper now steps into the hobby forefront and one of his key early cards is currently for sale on eBay, a 2010 Bowman Chrome Red Refractor #/5 graded BGS 9.5. The sub-grades are: Centering 9.5, Corners 9.5, Surface 9.5, and Edges 9.

Harper may take some time to reach the majors which might be a good reason to sell high on him right now. For one, he will be learning a new defensive position as he won't be playing catcher in the big leagues. He is also still very young, remember he got his G.E.D. after his Junior year of High School so that he could go play J.C. ball in Nevada this past season. Even the lowest level of minor league baseball will be a huge jump in skill level for Harper and at some point he will face struggles. That will be the best opportunity to buy is when he has a few bad weeks, or months, at the minor league level. Prices for Harper's rookie cards will remain hot throughout 2010 and probably well into 2011 unless he struggles early. Keep in mind that with the injury to Strasburg the Nationals may be more inclined to take their time with Harper and that will create many buying opportunities before he hits the major leagues.

Bryce Harper 2010 Bowman Chrome RC RED Refractor /5 BGS 9.5
Watchers: 96
Current Price: $2,125.00
Final Price: $2,925.00
Auction Ends: August 29

2010 Bowman Chrome Bryce Harper USA Superfractor 1/1
Watchers: Unavailable
Buy it Now Price: $19,999.99 Or Best Offer
Superfractor - Serial Numbered 1/1

2001 Bowman Chrome Albert Pujols Auto Rookie PSA 9

2010-08-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

Three words come to my head when I see one of these cards for sale. I WANT ONE! The 2001 Bowman Chrome Albert Pujols Autograph RC card might be the crown jewel of modern day baseball cards. Pujols recently hit his 400th career home run and remains the premier hitter in all of baseball.

Buying a 2001 Bowman Chrome Pujols Rookie is a serious investment. These cards have sold for well over $1,000.00 for many years. Pujols does not have very many rookie cards available which is rare for a top player to have such a slim supply on the market. His 2001 Bowman Chrome Autograph is serial numbered to just /500 copies which further fuels the frenzy when one does hit the market. There are currently only five for sale right now on eBay, four with buy it now prices and one PSA 9 up for auction. The cheapest price with a buy it now is for a BGS 9 that will set your wallet back $4,699.99.

Albert Pujols 2001 Bowman Chrome Refractor Ref Auto PSA
Watchers: 100 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $3,650.00
Final Price: $3,800.00
Auction Ends: August 29

2010 Topps Tim Tebow & John Elway Dual Autograph

2010-08-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

2010 Topps Football was officially released today, but cards have made their way onto eBay for the past several days. The most popular 2010 Topps card on eBay currently is a Tim Tebow and John Elway Gridiron Lineage Dual Autograph #14/25.

2010 Topps Football Checklist

The 2010 Topps set features several cards of Elway and current Bronco Tim Tebow. Denver fans have got to be delighted that Topps was able to secure Elway and Tebow autographs on the same card, but the price will not be cheap if you are in the market for one. Elway is one of the greatest QB's to ever play the game, while Tebow is trying to shake off some bruised ribs to get back on the field during the preseason. The differences between the two QB's don't end there, Elway was known for a cannon arm while Tebow relies on his power and strength that made him one of the most decorated NCAA athletes of all-time.

The Gridiron Lineage Dual Autographs are serial numbered to 25 that feature a nice list of names and would make for a nice pull. Along with the Tebow/Elway card, some of my other favorites from the insert set are: Joe Montana/ Jimmy Clausen, Emmitt Smith/ LaDainian Tomlinson and Jim Brown/ Adrian Peterson. Be sure to check out the entire 2010 Topps Football checklist here.

2010 TOPPS FOOTBALL TIM TEBOW JOHN ELWAY DUAL AUTO /25
Watchers: 114 (Most Watched Football Card)
Current Price: $227.50
Final Price: $265.00
Auction Ends: August 27

2006 Bowman Chrome Alex Gordon Superfractor For Sale Again

2010-08-16T11:28:00.000-07:00

The 2006 Alex Gordon Bowman Chrome Superfractor Autograph 1/1 is on the move, the card is listed for sale once again on eBay. In early May 2010, we reported the card was sold by a seller from Taiwan for $1,375.00. This time around a seller out of Chicago has it up for auction and it will be interesting to see if the card approaches the May selling price. Gordon has struggled mightily this season and has spent most of his time in the minors with AAA Omaha.

The card appears to be in the same magnetic holder and it's probably safe to assume the condition of the card is the same as it was in May. The current seller doesn't list much of a description, the only comments about the card are, "The card is numbered 1 of 1 and is in mint condition. Shipping is $10. Signature confirmation will be included."

Gordon is trying to get his career jump started again and has put up a nice line of 260 AB .314 AVE 14 HR in triple-A Omaha. He is also dealing with a position change, playing LF instead of 3B. In 2007 he was rated the #2 prospect by Baseball America but has only hit .247 in over 1,300 MLB at bats since his rookie season in '07. Sometimes players take a little while to develop and the good thing for Gordon is that he is only 26 and still has a few years to get an opportunity to show he can play again at the MLB level.

Update: POOOF! Gone from eBay without a trace :(

Update 2: Another seller was able to get the card and sell it on eBay for $855.00 and the auction ended on September 2.

2006 Alex Gordon Bowman Chrome Superfractor Auto 1/1
Watchers: 34
Current Price: $340.00
Final Price: ??????
Auction Ends: August 20

2006 Bowman Chrome SuperFractor Auto 1/1 Alex Gordon
Watchers: 76
Final Price: $1,375.00
Card Sold: May 2010

Free Panini Adrenalyn XL Football Codes All Season

2010-08-12T22:23:00.000-07:00

From August 12, through the Super Bowl, Sports Card Radio will be giving away over 300 2010 Panini Adrenalyn XL Football Codes. Make sure to check back early and often for your chance to get a code!

Each code is redeemable just one time through Panini's Adrenalyn Football website. Sports Card Radio will be giving away valuable parallel and insert cards that feature upgraded rankings to help you beat your friends online. Be sure to check out the videos on Sports Card Radio's YouTube for updates on which cards will be given away that week!

1997 UD Legends Walter Payton Autograph

2010-08-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular football sets of all-time is 1997 Upper Deck Legends. Collectors fell in love with it's spectacular photography as well as the massive 162 on-card autograph parallel set. One of the key cards from the autograph set is currently for sale on eBay, Walter Payton #AL-4 - Short Print (Sp).

1997 Upper Deck Legends Football Complete Checklist

Payton's cards, specifically his 1976 Topps Rookie, are generally some of the most watched football cards on eBay. It's very rare for one of these 1997 Legends autographs to hit auction, and it will be interesting to see what the final price will be. The Bears all-time leading rusher passed away several years ago and that has fueled the demand for his autograph cards and the '97 Legends might be his most sought after autograph trading card. The 1997 Legends auto's are very popular because they are signed on-card. The Payton autograph is short printed and very scarce, Upper Deck has never announced a print run, but it is believed to be less then 100 copies.

Update: Card taken off eBay - BOOOOOOOOO! :)

1997 Upper Deck Legends Walter Payton Auto #AL-4 SP
Watchers: 85
Current Price: $960.00
Final Price: ???????
Auction Ends: August 15

2009/10 Panini National Treasures Stephen Curry RC

2010-08-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

I live about an hour from Oracle Arena, home of the Golden State Warriors, and I know first hand that Stephen Curry has that loyal fan base very excited. Curry was known as a sharp shooter during his time at Davidson, but his rookie season with the Warriors he displayed point guard skills that had head coach Don Nelson comparing Curry to Steve Nash. While I was very skeptical when I first heard Nelson say that on Draft Night 2009, Curry's play during the 09/10 season proved why he is a head coach and I am sitting on the sofa.

2009/10 Panini National Treasures Complete Checklist

Two of the hottest basketball cards on eBay are a pair of 2009/10 Panini National Treasures Stephen Curry RC Patch Autographs. Collectors have been waiting all season for some high end basketball from Panini and the buildup for this set has been strong and the new cards went live yesterday. The price of these two Curry National Treasure RC's will probably come in on the high end because they are the first to hit eBay. If you are in the market for one, I would consider waiting a month or so, and be sure to monitor the prices of the ones that do get sold.

09/10 NATIONAL TREASURES AUTO STEPHEN CURRY 58/99
Watchers: 84
Current Price: $61.00
Final Price: $224.72
Auction Ends: August 8

2010 National Treasures STEPHEN CURRY Patch Auto RC /99
Watchers: 103
Current Price: $92.00
Final Price: $265.00
Auction Ends: August 7

2010 Bowman Chrome Manny Machado Red Refractor /5

2010-08-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Baltimore Orioles selected Manny Machado with the 3rd overall pick in the 2010 MLB Draft. The star high school shortstop played for Team USA and that allowed Topps to produce baseball cards of Machado and other USA stars including Bryce Harper before they were drafted.

In June, the Manny Machado Superfractor parallel serial numbered 1/1 sold for $1,225.00. The card featured below is the Red Refractor parallel serial numbered 1/5. Machado has not signed a contract yet with the O's, but has a couple more weeks to hammer out a deal. He could choose to go to college, but I imagine the money will be too much to pass up and he will one of the top prospects to watch in 2011.

Many baseball scouts have compared Machado to Alex Rodriguez, which would delight collectors if Manny ever put up the type of numbers A-Rod has during his career. It's also not known if Machado will remain a SS or will have to move to another position, like 3B, 1B or the OF.

2010 Manny Machado Bowman Chrome Red Refractor RC 1/5
Watchers: 38
Current Price: $201.87
Final Price: $560.00
Auction Ends: August 4

2010 Bowman Chrome Manny Machado Superfractor 1/1
Watchers: 100
Final Price: $1,225.00
Sold on eBay: June 2010

2010 Donruss Classics Don Hutson Cut Autograph /50

2010-08-02T21:34:00.000-07:00

On the wikipedia page for Don Hutson, it credits him as the first star WR in the NFL. He played 10 years in the league for the Green Bay Packers and Panini was able to get 50 cut signature cards that were inserted into 2010 Classics. Hutson passed away in 1997.

Hutson had a remarkable career, which also included some time on the defensive side of the ball. I was amazed to find out that he led the NFL in interceptions in 1940 with 6. He was all over the field because he also led the NFL three times in extra points made. But it was Hutson's accomplishments as a wide receiver which he is most known for. He won the league MVP award twice and was the first WR in NFL history to have over 1,000 yards in one season.

2010 Panini Classics Checklist

The Don Hutson 2010 Panini Classics 'Classic Cuts' autograph, currently is the most watched football card on eBay. There is another 2010 Classics Hutson cut for sale by another seller for $200.00 (buy it now). We'll see where the Hutson cut featured below ends up at auction, .

It's been a slow buildup to the NFL season in terms of trading cards, with many collectors waiting to see which rookies will emerge from the 2010 draft class. I've noticed a lot of vintage cards, and modern cut autograph cards have been the hottest football cards during this off season. We'll see if that trend changes when the pre-season kicks off this week.

2010 Panini CLASSICS CUTS Don Hutson Auto /50
Watchers: 55 (Most Watched Football Card)
Current Price: $108.49
Final Price: $157.50
Auction Ends: August 3

2008 Bowman Chrome Ray Rice Superfractor Autograph RC

2010-07-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Ray Rice had a breakout season running the football for the Baltimore Ravens in 2009. Not only is he a powerful runner, but he's got soft hands and can catch the ball out of the backfield very well. Initially the Ravens were splitting time with Rice, LaRon McClain and Willis McGahee, but Rice proved he was the best of the trio and had some huge games to stake his claim as one of the top young running backs in the NFL. The most watched football card on eBay is his 2008 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Autograph RC, serial numbered 1/1.

2008 Ray Rice Rookie Card Checklist

There might be a lot of Rice super collectors out there who really want this card. I am not aware if this card has been for sale in the past, but I would imagine that it will end up in a personal collection because the price probably won't get too out of hand. One thing to note about Rice, is that he has a very nice autograph - great handwriting and very legible.

I like Ray Rice's outlook for 2010, of course as with all running backs, he must stay healthy. There were many games in which Rice was the best player on the field but the coaching staff would continue to mix in McClain and McGahee. It was McGahee who I remember would come in and get the goal line carries at the beginning of the season and that hurt some of Rice's overall rushing numbers (1339 Yards 7 TD's). The receiving numbers are off the carts. 78 REC 702 Yards!!! Wow. Those are numbers some WR's would like to have. As long as the Ravens game plan doesn't mix too many other RB's into the mix, expect big numbers again for Rice this season.

Ray Rice 2008 Bowman Chrome Auto Superfractor 1/1
Watchers: 105 (Most Watched Football Card)
Current Price: $281.88
Final Price: $1,155.55
Auction Ends: July 28

PSA 8 1954 Topps Hank Aaron Rookie Card

2010-07-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of hype surrounding the 2010 MLB rookie class - Stephen Strasburg, Jason Heyward and most recently, Buster Posey, have all shined. It may come as some surprise that the most watched baseball card on eBay is currently a 1954 Topps Hank Aaron Rookie Card graded PSA 8. Take that Strasburg!

In March 2010, Sports Card Radio tracked the sales of Aaron's rookie card sales on eBay. Two 1954 Topps Henry Aaron RC graded PSA 8 were sold that month and fetched $3,850.00 and $4,799.99. The '54 Topps Aaron RC currently on eBay is up to $3,000.01 - so it will be interesting to see what the final price will be.

1954 Topps Baseball Checklist

With New York Yankees 3B Alex Rodriguez closing in on 600 HR it might be a great time to sell high on Aaron. Rodriguez already admitted to steroid use and current all-time HR leader Barry Bonds is believed to have also taken the juice to help his muscle growth. Aaron played in a time when the game was clean and many baseball purists still regard him as the true all-time leader. As time passes, it will be interesting to see how the home run record will be perceived by fans of the game. Will they give credit to Bonds and A-Rod despite their "cheating"? More likely, old time players like Aaron will gain even more legendary status because they played in an era without steroids.

1954 Topps Hank Aaron ROOKIE #128 PSA 8 NM-MT
Watchers: 127 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $3,000.01
Final Price: $4,604.54
Auction Ended: July 27

2007/08 UD Black Kevin Durant RC Autograph /99

2010-07-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

Kevin Durant saw his hobby stock rise during the 09/10 NBA season, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the first round of the playoffs. Collectors interest in Durant has remained steady throughout the summer and a 2007/08 UD Black Auto RC 2/99 is currently one of the hottest basketball cards on eBay.

Kevin Durant 2007/08 Rookie Card Checklist

The 07/08 UD Black Rookie Autographs have a nice look to them, and are a cheaper alternative to the Exquisite RC's. The seller of this 07/08 UD Black Kevin Durant RC previously had the card for sale for $950.00. It's serial numbered 2/99 - and for what it's worth - Durant was selected #2 overall in the 2007 NBA Draft.

Expectations will be elevated for Durant in 2010/11 and at the very least, fans and collectors will expect a return trip to the playoffs. The NBA Western Conference appears to be weaker and the Thunder shape up to be one of the better teams if Durant continues to impress. He will also be one of the top picks in fantasy basketball leagues which will help improve his stature amongst fans of the game. While I don't expect the price for this UD Black Durant RC to reach the sellers previous asking price of $950.00, it will command a decent sum.

07-08 BLACK KEVIN DURANT RC AUTO JSY 2/99 1/1
Watchers: 99 (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Current Price: $200.00
Auction Ends: July 25
Final Price: $373.99

2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg Red Autograph 1/1 BGS 9

2010-07-13T00:55:00.000-07:00

Bidding begins tomorrow for the 2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg Red Autograph 1/1 graded BGS 9. The card is being auctioned off by Huggins & Scott Auctions, and the starting price is $9,000.00.

The 2010 Bowman Strasburg Red 1/1 Autograph set eBay on fire when it was for sale in late June. Bidding got as high as $1 million before the card was pulled off eBay because the seller was concerned about the legitimacy of the staggering bids. Huggins and Scott were brought in to make sure a legit deal goes through:

"The (seller) contacted us over the weekend and he's decided to include it in our July auction," says Bill Huggins, of Huggins & Scott Auctions in Silver Spring, Md. "It has some significant value, 25K maybe $50,000."

The card was originally for sale un-graded on eBay, but has since been graded by BGS and received a grade of 9. Sub-grades were - Centering 9.5 - Edges 9 - Corners 8.5 - Surface 9 - Autograph Grade 10. Here is a small write-up about the card from Huggins & Scott's website:

'Claimed from a humble pack by our Florida consignor, the offered 2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg #1/1 Red Parallel Certified Autograph is perhaps the most coveted modern insert card ever produced. This example may look familiar to most as it was removed from a highly publicized internet auction and placed in our care. As the subject of numerous national news reports, blogs and message board discussions, the extreme scarcity of the Strasburg (1 of 1) parallels have transformed the modern baseball hobby.'

2010 Bowman Stephen Strasburg Red Autograph 1/1 BGS 9
Lot Number: 1A
Starting Bid: $9,000.00
Final Price: $17,000.00
Auction Ends: July 28, 2010

2010 Bowman Chrome Bryce Harper USA Superfractor 1/1

2010-07-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

Before the Washington Nationals selected Bryce Harper #1 in the 2010 MLB Draft in June, the phenom played on Team USA in 2009 which allowed Topps to produce some trading cards prior to him even being drafted. The 2010 Bowman Chrome Team USA Superfractor, serial numbered 1/1, is currently for sale on eBay.

Word of the big pull surfaced on the Freedom Cardboard Forums on June 29th and you can view some clean scans of the card on page 4 of that thread. The seller of the Harper Superfractor, ejc216, makes note of an imperfection at the bottom edge of the card in the auction description. Nonetheless, it is a really nice card of a player who scouts have raved about for several years. There is a reserve on the auction, and the current price of $2,700.00 had not met the asking price. If I had to take a stab at what the reserve would be - I would guess $5,000.00 but that is a shot in the dark.

Harper's future teammate in Washington, Stephen Strasburg, has seen his 2010 Bowman cards set the hobby on fire. In late May, Robert Power purchased the Strasburg 1/1 Superfractor for $16,403.00. Just one month later Power sold the card to Razor Collectibles for $21,403.00. The Strasburg 1/1 Superfractor will now be inserted into 2010 Razor Rookie Retro, due in stores later this year. No word on if Razor will attempt to buy the Harper USA Superfractor currently for sale.

Update: Card now for sale for $25,000.00 or best offer.

2010 Bowman Chrome Bryce Harper USA Superfractor 1/1
Watchers: 277
Current Price: $2,700.00
Auction Ends: July 18
Reserve Met: ??????
Final Price: ????????

2003/04 UD Exquisite Chris Bosh Patch Auto RC /99

2010-07-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

He might be the third wheel on the South Beach Dream Team, but Chris Bosh has seen an explosion in value to his rookie cards as collectors anticipate dollar signs and championships in Miami with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

2003/04 Upper Deck Exquisite Basketball Checklist

The two most watched Basketball cards right now on eBay are not rookie cards of James or Wade, they are a pair of 2003/04 Upper Deck Exquisite Chris Bosh Patch Autographed RC's. The price tag will be over $1,000.00 each. On June 28th, before it was known where Bosh, Wade, and James would end up, a 03/04 Exquisite Bosh Auto/Patch Rookie sold for $1,300.00. I would expect that the bidding for these two Bosh cards currently on eBay will sell for more then that. Edit: Wrong! :)

2003-04 UD Exquisite Chris Bosh Auto Rookie Patch 95/99
Watchers: 122 (Most Watched Basketball Card)
Auction Ends: July 17th.
Current Price: $1,055.00
Final Price: $1,130.57

03-04 UD EXQUISITE CHRIS BOSH RC /99 AUTO PATCH HEAT
Watchers: 106
Auction Ends: July 18th.
Current Price: $810.00
Final Price: $1,142.77

2010 Allen & Ginter Beethoven DNA Hair Relic 1/1

2010-07-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

One of the staples of the Allen & Ginter product line are the DNA Hair Relic 1/1 cards. This years version once again has Ludwig Van Beethoven and that card is currently for sale on eBay.

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball Checklist

The price tag is already staggering and the auction doesn't end until July 18th. Current price is $2,024.99 and climbing by the hour. It's remarkable that a piece of hair would command such a premium on the open market. The Beethoven Hair Relic card is even on the front cover of the Hobby Boxes being ripped open throughout the country. It's one of the 'product hits' and the final price will be interesting to monitor.

The seller of the card, billys_sport_treasures, owns a hobby shop in Minnesota also aptly called Billy's Sports Treasures. Here is the announcement on their website that the store owner made about pulling the card:

We've decided to go ahead and list the Beethovern 1/1 Hair Relic for sale on eBay. However, while we realize most of our regular customers may not have a chance to buy that card, we still wanted to find a way to spread the feeling that we got when pulling this card--so we decided to do a giveaway promotion tied to the sale of the card.

The Ebay auction is scheduled to end on July 18, 2010--so between now and close of business on Friday the 16th, every purchase of over $20 in our store--online or in person--will result in that customer getting one guess at what the final price of the auction will be.

The person with the closest guess will win one free box of 2010 Allen & Ginter.

Check Billy's Sports Treasures contest page for all the contest details.

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Beethoven 1/1 DNA Relic Hair
Watchers: 728
Current Price: $2,024.99
Final Price: $4,050.02

2010 Allen & Ginter Chipper Jones Cabinet Name Plate 1/1

2010-07-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

One of the best hits to come out of 2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball during it's first week of release is this spectacular Chipper Jones Cabinet Name Plate 1/1. The 2010 Allen & Ginter Cabinet Relic cards can be found in the Box Loader Packs - but are all serial numbered 1/1 - so good luck finding one.

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Complete Checklist

These cards are over-sized, which allowed Topps to practically fit J-O-N-E-S on the entire card. The end result is an amazing collectors item for any Braves or Chipper fan. It's currently the most watched baseball card on eBay with 447 watchers. The auction still has several days left and it will be interesting to see if this one can hit four figures.

The seller of the card, nobledepaul99, has sold quite a few single cards in the past and for the most part has good feedback. He also has a very nice 2010 Razor Icons Ted Williams Cut Autograph for sale as well.

2010 ALLEN GINTER CHIPPER JONES NAMEPLATE PATCH #1/1
Watchers: 447 (Most Watched Baseball Card)
Current Price: $395.00
Final Price: $702.00

Saturday Sneak Peak: 2010 Panini Epix Football

2010-07-03T03:40:00.000-07:00

Epix is Panini's newest 2010 Football set that has been announced and it features some technology I wasn't familiar with - so I'll post the official word from Panini:

Panini invigorates the 2010 NFL Season with the introduction of Epix Football. Using “HoloEmboss™”, Epix delivers a whole new look to the trading card community. HoloEmboss™ is an award winning technology which creates a unique foil appearance without the use of holographic foil. The hologram appears on top of the printing as opposed to underneath, giving it a subtle and unique appearance.

The award I believe they are speaking of was given out at the 2008 National Paperboard Packaging Competition. You can find a PDF of the Award Results Here. Its tough to see how the technology works in any of the 'photos' that Panini provided for the set - so maybe the award winning cover-art to the left can give you a better idea of what we will be expecting.

Interestingly the Topps Company wins an award for some of their packaging in the results I provide above.

Expect to see 2010 Epix Football in hobby stores around September 22, 2010. Each box will contain 18 Packs Per Box with 8 Cards Per Pack. Expect to pay around $6.00 per hobby pack.

2010 Panini Epix Football Box Checklist

These are mock-up illustrations and I'm guessing the actual cards will have a unique appearance. More photos can be seen on the checklist page I link above as well.

Saturday Sneak Peak: 2010 Topps Update Series Baseball

2010-07-03T03:14:00.000-07:00

The always popular update boxes should arrive on hobby shelves around October 11, 2010 - and Stephen Strasburg fans should have even more cards to collect. The early checklist shows that his card #661 is inserted in this set - along with a slew of other inserts and autographs. It will be interesting to see if he makes the 2010 All - Star Game & if he will be included in any of those insert sets. The Albert Pujols jumbo All-Star Patch Autograph card looks like a winner.

Who knows if the Strasburg money train will still be chugging along by the time this set comes out - and expect very expensive prices if its full steam ahead. However increasing supply of his cards may slowly de-rail the express train. Only collectors and his play on the field will decide that in the end.

Early: 2010 Topps Update Series Baseball Box Checklist

Most Watched 2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Cards On eBay

2010-06-30T17:27:00.000-07:00

Collectors have waited patiently for the release of one of the most popular baseball card sets, Topps Allen & Ginter, and the last 2 days eBay has lit up with new cards hitting the market. The "official" release date was today. Here are the most watched 2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Baseball Cards currently on eBay.

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Complete Checklist

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter Stephen Strasburg Mini RC 401
Watchers: 219
Current Price: $610.00
Final Price: $620.55

2010 Topps Allen & Ginter TONY HAWK Autograph AUTO SP
Watchers: 72
Current Price: $172.50
Final Price: $172.50

2010 Allen & Ginter's RYAN HOWARD AUTO Card
Watchers: 31
Current Price: $50.00
Final Price: $165.61

JASON HEYWARD 2010 ALLEN & GINTER SP AUTO AUTOGRAPH
Watchers: 30
Current Price: $139.99
Final Price: $142.50

Yovani Gallardo 2010 Allen & Ginter Rip Card (unripped)
Watchers: 17
Current Price: $33.00
Final Price: $67.99

2010 Donruss Elite Tim Tebow RC Autograph Die Cut

2010-06-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

The NFL Football season is still a few months away, but collectors are getting their hands on all the new 2010 Draft Picks. The most watched football card on eBay this week is this 2010 Donruss Elite Tim Tebow Status Die Cut RC Autographed, serial numbered 1/24.

2010 Donruss Elite Football Checklist

Tim Tebow's skills as a quarterback are often questioned, but his fan base is large and strong. Tebow has been the biggest hit in the early 2010 Panini Football products and collectors will be monitoring the QB situation in Denver closely. The odds are Tebow will not begin the season as the starter, so there is plenty of time to sell while the prices are still very high.

The Elite Status Autographs are a parallel card to the base rookie cards found in 2010 Donruss Elite Football. They are serial numbered /24, and this Tebow is #1 in the print run.

2010 Elite Tim Tebow Die Cut Status Auto (01/24)
Watchers: 75
Current Price: $137.50
Final Price: $230.35

2010 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Stephen Strasburg Part II

2010-06-25T07:32:00.000-07:00

On May 29, Robert Power shocked the baseball card world when he paid $16,403.00 for a 2010 Bowman Chrome Superfractor 1/1 Stephen Strasburg. I predicted at the time that the card would never sell for more then that price. Boy was I wrong.

Robert currently has the card for sale on eBay, and bidding has already exceeded the price he paid just a few weeks ago. Power said on an interview with ESPN First Take that he thought the card would sell for $22,000.00 when he first bought the card in May. It's interesting that he also mentioned in the interview that he sent the card in to be graded by Beckett (BGS). The current auction is for an ungraded/unslabbed card.

If the current auction ends (with an approved bidder) above what Mr. Power paid in May - it's a massive win for the hobby. There were countless people, including myself, who thought that Robert went overboard when he bought the Strasburg 1/1 Superfractor card on May 29 for $16,403. Now just a little over three weeks later he can take turn around and flip the card for more than he purchased it for.

Update: WOW - The card WAS GRADED. BGS 9.5. Take a look at the centering. More updates to come. - Update II: I don't want to get in trouble - but Beckett ought to be ashamed of themselves for that stunt giving that card a 9.5. Thanks for tainting a great story Beckett.

2010 BOWMAN CHROME SUPERFRACTOR STEPHEN STRASBURG 1/1
Watchers: 3,854
Current Price: $22,422.00
Final Price: $25,000.00

Original auction stats from May 29th sale:

2010 Bowman Chrome Baseball Stephen Strasburg Superfractor 1/1
Sold For: $16,403
Bids: 84
Auction Date: May 19 - May 29, 2010
Auction Watchers: 10,330
eBay Seller: dunksb_sz10
eBay Buyer: taxdaddy (Robert Power)