1961 Topps #404 Rogers Hornsby (Highlight card)
1962 Topps #314 Colavito's Power (Rocky Colavito IA)
Nowbatting19's
Slugger Gallery
Slugger Gallery
1955 Bowman #202 Mickey Mantle 1963 Jello #15 Mickey Mantle (hand cut from Jello dessert box)
Our Slugger Gallery will start off with baseball's most beloved slugger, Mickey Mantle. Mantle didn't just hit Home Runs, he hit towering, mammoth shots including a 565 foot blast at Washington's Griffith
Stadium! WOW! Mantle also almost hit a ball completely out of Yankee Stadium on May 22, 1963 against the Kansas City Athletics. The ball was still rising when it hit the facade above the right field stands. Who
knows how far that one would have gone. Keep in mind this was "B.S." (before steroids). Thanks to guys like Mickey Mantle, the word "tape measure home run" was born. Mantle went on to hit 536 lifetime Home
Runs in his injury plagued career. Like the player himself, Mickey Mantle baseball cards are extremely popular today.
A lot of collectors confuse the 1963 Jello cards as being "Post cereal" cards, but the '63 Jello cards are separate issues. Like the Post cereal cards, the Jello cards were intended to be cut from the box (cards on
complete boxes are rare today). If cut properly the Jello cards should measure 3-3/8" x 2-1/2." The Post cereal cards measure a bit wider side to side; 3-1/2" x 2-1/2." There are also slight print differences. While
the 1963 Post cereal set is considered to be the toughest to complete among the 1961-1963 Post issues, the 1963 Jello set is just as tough. In fact the Jello cards are tougher to find in higher grades. This is due to the
fact that the baseball cards themselves took up almost the entire back of the Jello box. To cut the card out without creasing it, you would have to carefully unfold the box and cut. Plus the edges of the card almost
come to the edges of the Jello box so they were susceptible to wear even without being cut out. To give you an example of how tough the Jello cards are, the highest graded example of a 1963 Jello card (by PSA) is a
PSA 5 EX (Excellent), while there are several high grade 1963 Post Mickey Mantle cards out there, including NM-MT and MINT cards.
Stadium! WOW! Mantle also almost hit a ball completely out of Yankee Stadium on May 22, 1963 against the Kansas City Athletics. The ball was still rising when it hit the facade above the right field stands. Who
knows how far that one would have gone. Keep in mind this was "B.S." (before steroids). Thanks to guys like Mickey Mantle, the word "tape measure home run" was born. Mantle went on to hit 536 lifetime Home
Runs in his injury plagued career. Like the player himself, Mickey Mantle baseball cards are extremely popular today.
A lot of collectors confuse the 1963 Jello cards as being "Post cereal" cards, but the '63 Jello cards are separate issues. Like the Post cereal cards, the Jello cards were intended to be cut from the box (cards on
complete boxes are rare today). If cut properly the Jello cards should measure 3-3/8" x 2-1/2." The Post cereal cards measure a bit wider side to side; 3-1/2" x 2-1/2." There are also slight print differences. While
the 1963 Post cereal set is considered to be the toughest to complete among the 1961-1963 Post issues, the 1963 Jello set is just as tough. In fact the Jello cards are tougher to find in higher grades. This is due to the
fact that the baseball cards themselves took up almost the entire back of the Jello box. To cut the card out without creasing it, you would have to carefully unfold the box and cut. Plus the edges of the card almost
come to the edges of the Jello box so they were susceptible to wear even without being cut out. To give you an example of how tough the Jello cards are, the highest graded example of a 1963 Jello card (by PSA) is a
PSA 5 EX (Excellent), while there are several high grade 1963 Post Mickey Mantle cards out there, including NM-MT and MINT cards.
"Where have you gone Joe DiMaggio...our nation turns it's lonely eyes to you..." (from the Simon & Garfunkel song "Mrs.
Robinson"). "Joltin' Joe" was an American idol, well before the ridiculous television show that attempts to make superstars out
of nobodys. Before TV and blatant self-promotion there was a shy and withdrawn Italian kid from the San Francisco Bay area
that could smash the ball and make effortless catches in the outfield. To top it off he showcased his talents in "The House That
Ruth Built," Yankee Stadium. In fact DiMaggio was so good, he made the the Yankee fans almost forget about Babe Ruth who
was traded to the Boston (Braves). What really put Joe D on the pedestal was his amazing 56 game hitting streak in 1941.
How good was Joe DiMaggio that year? Good enough to win the American League MVP over Ted Williams, who happened
to bat over .400 that same year (.406). That 56 game hit streak is still intact today. Unbelievable. Despite some serious
injuries throughout his career, DiMaggio put up some unholy numbers including a .325 career batting average, 2215 hits,
131 triples, 361 HRs, and 1537 RBIs. Keep in mind DiMaggio had a relatively short career (only 13 seasons!). Joe & the
Yanks went to 10 World Series and won 9 of those contests! To further the legend, DiMaggio married the most desirable
woman in the world at the time, Marilyn Monroe.
Joe DiMaggio did not appear on too many baseball cards. His rookie card is considered the 1939 Playball but he also
appeared on some early World Wide Gum and Goudey issues. After World War II started for American in 1941, baseball
cards were pretty much halted up until 1948-49 with the Leaf set. DiMaggio is card #1 in that set but he did not appear on a
1950's Topps or Bowman gum card. The only 1950's issues of Joe DiMaggio are the 1951 & 1952 Berk Ross cards. This
1952 Berk Ross Joe DiMaggio card (left) is his last card as he had retired after the 1951 World Series.
Robinson"). "Joltin' Joe" was an American idol, well before the ridiculous television show that attempts to make superstars out
of nobodys. Before TV and blatant self-promotion there was a shy and withdrawn Italian kid from the San Francisco Bay area
that could smash the ball and make effortless catches in the outfield. To top it off he showcased his talents in "The House That
Ruth Built," Yankee Stadium. In fact DiMaggio was so good, he made the the Yankee fans almost forget about Babe Ruth who
was traded to the Boston (Braves). What really put Joe D on the pedestal was his amazing 56 game hitting streak in 1941.
How good was Joe DiMaggio that year? Good enough to win the American League MVP over Ted Williams, who happened
to bat over .400 that same year (.406). That 56 game hit streak is still intact today. Unbelievable. Despite some serious
injuries throughout his career, DiMaggio put up some unholy numbers including a .325 career batting average, 2215 hits,
131 triples, 361 HRs, and 1537 RBIs. Keep in mind DiMaggio had a relatively short career (only 13 seasons!). Joe & the
Yanks went to 10 World Series and won 9 of those contests! To further the legend, DiMaggio married the most desirable
woman in the world at the time, Marilyn Monroe.
Joe DiMaggio did not appear on too many baseball cards. His rookie card is considered the 1939 Playball but he also
appeared on some early World Wide Gum and Goudey issues. After World War II started for American in 1941, baseball
cards were pretty much halted up until 1948-49 with the Leaf set. DiMaggio is card #1 in that set but he did not appear on a
1950's Topps or Bowman gum card. The only 1950's issues of Joe DiMaggio are the 1951 & 1952 Berk Ross cards. This
1952 Berk Ross Joe DiMaggio card (left) is his last card as he had retired after the 1951 World Series.
1952 Berk Ross Joe DiMaggio
| Hank Aaron is really underrated. Consider this: Everyone knows that Aaron is the All-Time Home Run King with 755 round-trippers. But did you know that Hank Aaron also won 2 batting titles? Did you know that he stole as many as 31 bases in a season? Did you know that in post season play Aaron hit .357 in the 1969 League Championship series and hit .364 in two World Series (1957, 1958)? Did you know that his lifetime batting average was .305? Did you know that he received death threats before breaking Babe Ruth's home run mark in 1974? This is a very special player and a special person as well. Aaron had natural talent but can you imaging the character of the man having to endure racism throughout his playing career? A very special person indeed. This is one of Hank Aaron's best cards. Not only is it from his MVP season (.322, 198 hits, 44 HR, 132 RBI), but check out the picture carefully. The giveaway is the number "44" on his jersey. It is backwards. Topps reversed the negative and it was not caught during the press runs. Hence you have a left-handed Hank Aaron card though Aaron hit all 755 home runs batting right-handed. Special card, special player. |
1957 Topps #20 Hank Aaron UER
1962 Topps #140 Babe Ruth Special
(Gehrig And Ruth)
(Gehrig And Ruth)
1935 Goudey 4-1 (Jimmie Foxx)
Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth vintage baseball cards are, well, pretty damn expensive. Even lower grade examples during their playing days sell for a few hundred dollars each.
However you can pick up Topps cards featuring both players for much less. This 1962 Topps card #140 Babe Ruth Special (above left) was part of a 10-card subset highlighting the
career of Babe Ruth and features Lou Gehrig as well. As you can see by the price tag, it is also affordable. Topps also issued highlight cards of Gehrig and Ruth in 1961, 1973, and
1976. Real bargains!
Jimmie Foxx (aka. "THE BEAST" or "Double X") was a right handed Lou Gehrig. He was a star slugger for the Philadelphia Athletics and also the Boston Red Sox. Can you imagine a
line-up featuring Foxx and Ted Williams? They were teammates for about 4 years (1939-1942). From 1929 through 1941 Jimmie Foxx drove in no less than 100 runs, including a
whopping 175 RBIs in 1938. Foxx went on to win 4 HR crowns (including 50 or more twice), 2 Batting Titles, and A.L. MVP Award 3 times. He did not win a World Series while with
Boston, but did go to the World Series 3 consecutive years while with Philadelphia (1929-1931), winning 2 of those contests. A real champ! This 1935 Goudey 4 in 1 card features
Foxx while with Philadelphia and is much cheaper than his 1933-34 Goudey cards. Jimmie Foxx died at the age of 59 in 1967.
However you can pick up Topps cards featuring both players for much less. This 1962 Topps card #140 Babe Ruth Special (above left) was part of a 10-card subset highlighting the
career of Babe Ruth and features Lou Gehrig as well. As you can see by the price tag, it is also affordable. Topps also issued highlight cards of Gehrig and Ruth in 1961, 1973, and
1976. Real bargains!
Jimmie Foxx (aka. "THE BEAST" or "Double X") was a right handed Lou Gehrig. He was a star slugger for the Philadelphia Athletics and also the Boston Red Sox. Can you imagine a
line-up featuring Foxx and Ted Williams? They were teammates for about 4 years (1939-1942). From 1929 through 1941 Jimmie Foxx drove in no less than 100 runs, including a
whopping 175 RBIs in 1938. Foxx went on to win 4 HR crowns (including 50 or more twice), 2 Batting Titles, and A.L. MVP Award 3 times. He did not win a World Series while with
Boston, but did go to the World Series 3 consecutive years while with Philadelphia (1929-1931), winning 2 of those contests. A real champ! This 1935 Goudey 4 in 1 card features
Foxx while with Philadelphia and is much cheaper than his 1933-34 Goudey cards. Jimmie Foxx died at the age of 59 in 1967.
1962 Topps #316 Killebrew Sends One Into Orbit (Harmon Killebrew)
"The Killer" deserves to have his own page. Talk about sluggers, Harmon Killebrew was 100% steroid-free slugger! This guy bashed the ball, hitting 573 lifetime home runs in spite of the
fact that his first few big league seasons were part-time with the Washington Nationals/ Senators. It is as a Minnesota Twin he is best known and Killebrew helped lead his team to the 1965
World Series against the Dodgers. He was a 6 time Home Run Champ and also won the American League MVP in 1969 (49 HRs, 140 RBIs, 145 bases on balls). Keep in mind that had
Killebrew played in a big city like New York or Los Angeles his cards would probably be double what they are worth now. As it stands, they are a great bargain. This 1962 Topps card
(above) shows the "Killer" mashing the ball into the seats. One of the greatest sluggers ever and a classy guy to boot.
fact that his first few big league seasons were part-time with the Washington Nationals/ Senators. It is as a Minnesota Twin he is best known and Killebrew helped lead his team to the 1965
World Series against the Dodgers. He was a 6 time Home Run Champ and also won the American League MVP in 1969 (49 HRs, 140 RBIs, 145 bases on balls). Keep in mind that had
Killebrew played in a big city like New York or Los Angeles his cards would probably be double what they are worth now. As it stands, they are a great bargain. This 1962 Topps card
(above) shows the "Killer" mashing the ball into the seats. One of the greatest sluggers ever and a classy guy to boot.
"Who is that MAN???" asked Brooklyn Dodger fans when this Cardinal great would uncoil and
deliver clutch hits all over Ebbett's Field. Hence came the nickname "Stan The Man." Stan Musial
racked up 3,330 hits; including 725 doubles, 177 triples, and 475 home runs! His lifetime
slugging average was a robust .559. He scored 1,949 runs while driving in 1,951. Musial won
7 batting crowns in his great career and his lifetime batting average was .331. He is STAN THE
MAN!
Stan Musial was pictured on just a few Bowman and Topps issues. His cards are quite inexpensive
(compared to say Joe DiMaggio or Ted Williams) and this translates to a BARGAIN for collectors.
You cannot go wrong with a Stan Musial card. One of his best and least expensive cards is this
1958 Topps #476 Stan Musial All-Star card (left) which was his first Topps card. It was triple
printed, hence it is not difficult to find. You can pick up a nice ungraded NM example for around
$25-$30 (it lists at $32.50 in the 2006 SCD Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, Krause
Publications). Compare that to Ted Williams' All-Star card (card #485, $75) and Mickey Mantle
AS (#487, $105) from the same set. No wonder Stan is smiling; he knows a good thing when he
sees it.
deliver clutch hits all over Ebbett's Field. Hence came the nickname "Stan The Man." Stan Musial
racked up 3,330 hits; including 725 doubles, 177 triples, and 475 home runs! His lifetime
slugging average was a robust .559. He scored 1,949 runs while driving in 1,951. Musial won
7 batting crowns in his great career and his lifetime batting average was .331. He is STAN THE
MAN!
Stan Musial was pictured on just a few Bowman and Topps issues. His cards are quite inexpensive
(compared to say Joe DiMaggio or Ted Williams) and this translates to a BARGAIN for collectors.
You cannot go wrong with a Stan Musial card. One of his best and least expensive cards is this
1958 Topps #476 Stan Musial All-Star card (left) which was his first Topps card. It was triple
printed, hence it is not difficult to find. You can pick up a nice ungraded NM example for around
$25-$30 (it lists at $32.50 in the 2006 SCD Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, Krause
Publications). Compare that to Ted Williams' All-Star card (card #485, $75) and Mickey Mantle
AS (#487, $105) from the same set. No wonder Stan is smiling; he knows a good thing when he
sees it.
1958 Topps #476 Stan Musial AS
There isn't too much to say about Ted Williams that hasn't already been said. But when you talk about sluggers, you have to include "Teddy Ballgame." Williams combined both power and
average- while sluggers like Aaron, Mays, Mantle, etc. finished with lifetime batting averages around .300 (no small feat), Ted Williams finished with not only 521 Home Runs, but also a
hefty .344 lifetime batting mark! Some hitters are lucky to reach .344 in a season, let alone bat .344 lifetime. Williams is still the last player to bat .400 (.406 in 1941). Williams averaged
just 50 strikeouts (over 162 game schedule) per season, meaning usually he was tearing up American League pitching. And consider that Ted Williams lost nearly 5 prime seasons serving
our country as a Marine fighter pilot. Williams is not only one of the game's greatest sluggers but a true American legend as well!
average- while sluggers like Aaron, Mays, Mantle, etc. finished with lifetime batting averages around .300 (no small feat), Ted Williams finished with not only 521 Home Runs, but also a
hefty .344 lifetime batting mark! Some hitters are lucky to reach .344 in a season, let alone bat .344 lifetime. Williams is still the last player to bat .400 (.406 in 1941). Williams averaged
just 50 strikeouts (over 162 game schedule) per season, meaning usually he was tearing up American League pitching. And consider that Ted Williams lost nearly 5 prime seasons serving
our country as a Marine fighter pilot. Williams is not only one of the game's greatest sluggers but a true American legend as well!
1953 Bowman Color #80 Ralph Kiner
1967 Topps #100 Frank Robinson 1954 Dan Dee Potato Chips Gil Hodges
You always hear about the last Triple Crown Winner (Carl Yastrzemski in 1967), but you rarely hear about Frank Robinson, who won the Triple Crown in 1966. Robinson had just been traded to Baltimore from Cincinnati
and he responded by hitting .316, with 49 HR's and 122 RBI's. It is also no small wonder that the Orioles went on to win the World Series that year, sweeping the L.A. Dodgers in 4 games. With a strong pitching staff and
the two Robinson's (Brooks & Frank), the O's went on to play in 3 more World Series. Frank Robinson went on to hit 586 HR's, 1812 RBI's, and a lifetime .294 batting mark. Great player.
Gil Hodges is a HALL OF FAMER. He is not enshrined and it is truly a travesty that he is not a member of Baseball's Hall Of Fame. Regardless, most baseball fans would agree that Hodges should be a HOFer and he
was a fan favorite. Check out these stats; 1921 hits, 295 doubles, 370 home runs, 1274 RBIs and a lifetime .273 batting average. Keep in mind that Hodges played in an era when 20 or more HRs meant you were a
slugger. Hodges had 11 consective seasons with 22 or more HRs (including a personal high of 42), and 7 consecutive 100+ RBI seasons. He also slugged 4 home runs in a 9 inning game. Keep in mind that Hodges also lost
at least three seasons to the Marines and had he played those 3 seasons he would surely have hit over 400 HRs, which back then was a sure ticket to the Hall Of Fame. Gil Hodges was also one of the finest first basemen in
baseball (3 time Gold Glove winner) and he was a nice guy to boot. Of course, Hodges later became manager of the New York Mets and led the "Miracle Mets" to their first World Championship in 1969. Why he has been
ignored is just a real shame. Sadly, Gil Hodges passed away on December 2, 1972. He was just 48 years old.
and he responded by hitting .316, with 49 HR's and 122 RBI's. It is also no small wonder that the Orioles went on to win the World Series that year, sweeping the L.A. Dodgers in 4 games. With a strong pitching staff and
the two Robinson's (Brooks & Frank), the O's went on to play in 3 more World Series. Frank Robinson went on to hit 586 HR's, 1812 RBI's, and a lifetime .294 batting mark. Great player.
Gil Hodges is a HALL OF FAMER. He is not enshrined and it is truly a travesty that he is not a member of Baseball's Hall Of Fame. Regardless, most baseball fans would agree that Hodges should be a HOFer and he
was a fan favorite. Check out these stats; 1921 hits, 295 doubles, 370 home runs, 1274 RBIs and a lifetime .273 batting average. Keep in mind that Hodges played in an era when 20 or more HRs meant you were a
slugger. Hodges had 11 consective seasons with 22 or more HRs (including a personal high of 42), and 7 consecutive 100+ RBI seasons. He also slugged 4 home runs in a 9 inning game. Keep in mind that Hodges also lost
at least three seasons to the Marines and had he played those 3 seasons he would surely have hit over 400 HRs, which back then was a sure ticket to the Hall Of Fame. Gil Hodges was also one of the finest first basemen in
baseball (3 time Gold Glove winner) and he was a nice guy to boot. Of course, Hodges later became manager of the New York Mets and led the "Miracle Mets" to their first World Championship in 1969. Why he has been
ignored is just a real shame. Sadly, Gil Hodges passed away on December 2, 1972. He was just 48 years old.
1959 Topps #563 Willie Mays All Star (back view)
"Say Hey!" One of the game's greatest sluggers, and perhaps it's best player all-time is Willie Mays. At one time or another throughout Mays' career, he led the N.L. in batting average, slugging average, hits, triples, home
runs, runs, and stolen bases. That's just on offense. I won't even talk about defense though Mays is regarded as probably the best outfielder of all-time. Willie led the league in slugging 5 times in his career (no small feat
considering he had guys like Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Eddie Mathews, etc. in the same league). He hit 660 lifetime HR's, most of them in a lousy ballpark (Candlestick in San Francisco). He drove in almost 2,000 runs
(1903) and this was pre-steroids folks! He also finished his career with a lifetime .302 batting mark, which seems low by today's standards but keep in mind Mays played half of his career in the 1960's which was considered
to be a pitcher dominate era. You had guys like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, Warren Spahn, Juan Marichal, Bob Gibson, Tom Seaver, etc., just to name a few pitchers who Mays would have faced on a regular basis. The
pitching mound was also much higher than it is today, giving the pitcher an extra advantage. This 1959 Topps #563 Willie Mays Sporting News All Star card was included in the high numbered series which means it is
scarcer than Willie's regular Topps card (#50) from the same year.
runs, runs, and stolen bases. That's just on offense. I won't even talk about defense though Mays is regarded as probably the best outfielder of all-time. Willie led the league in slugging 5 times in his career (no small feat
considering he had guys like Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Eddie Mathews, etc. in the same league). He hit 660 lifetime HR's, most of them in a lousy ballpark (Candlestick in San Francisco). He drove in almost 2,000 runs
(1903) and this was pre-steroids folks! He also finished his career with a lifetime .302 batting mark, which seems low by today's standards but keep in mind Mays played half of his career in the 1960's which was considered
to be a pitcher dominate era. You had guys like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, Warren Spahn, Juan Marichal, Bob Gibson, Tom Seaver, etc., just to name a few pitchers who Mays would have faced on a regular basis. The
pitching mound was also much higher than it is today, giving the pitcher an extra advantage. This 1959 Topps #563 Willie Mays Sporting News All Star card was included in the high numbered series which means it is
scarcer than Willie's regular Topps card (#50) from the same year.
| 1939-46 Salutation Exhibits Ted Williams (#9 showing) |
1952 Mother's Cookies #32 Mel Ott (back view)
Here is a slugger that you don't hear about too often, Mel Ott. Mel Ott was only 5'-9" and weighed about 170 lbs., yet at the time of his retirement in 1947, he was the game's 3rd all-time
home run hitter behind Babe Ruth, and Jimmy Foxx. Ott smashed 511 HRs in his career, with a lifetime .533 slugging average, 2876 hits, 488 doubles, 1859 runs, 1861 RBIs, 1708
bases on balls. Incredibly in 22 seasons (all with the New York Giants), Ott only struck out 896 times. In comparison, Reggie Jackson hit 563 home runs in 21 seasons, but struck out 2597
times in his career (I believe that is a record). Mel Ott appeared in 3 World Series for the Giants, batting .295 with 4 HRs and 10 RBIs. Tragically, Ott was killed on November 21, 1958
from injuries sustained in a car crash. He was only 49 years old. Click HERE for more on Mel Ott and his obituary from 1958 (courtesy of The Deadball Era).
In 1952 and 1953, Mother's Cookies issued sets of Pacific Coast League players and managers. Included in the 1952 Mother's Cookies set is this card (above) of legendary slugger
Melvin "Mel" Ott, who was then manager of the Oakland Oaks. The Mother's Cookies are pretty tough to find, especially so in high grades.
home run hitter behind Babe Ruth, and Jimmy Foxx. Ott smashed 511 HRs in his career, with a lifetime .533 slugging average, 2876 hits, 488 doubles, 1859 runs, 1861 RBIs, 1708
bases on balls. Incredibly in 22 seasons (all with the New York Giants), Ott only struck out 896 times. In comparison, Reggie Jackson hit 563 home runs in 21 seasons, but struck out 2597
times in his career (I believe that is a record). Mel Ott appeared in 3 World Series for the Giants, batting .295 with 4 HRs and 10 RBIs. Tragically, Ott was killed on November 21, 1958
from injuries sustained in a car crash. He was only 49 years old. Click HERE for more on Mel Ott and his obituary from 1958 (courtesy of The Deadball Era).
In 1952 and 1953, Mother's Cookies issued sets of Pacific Coast League players and managers. Included in the 1952 Mother's Cookies set is this card (above) of legendary slugger
Melvin "Mel" Ott, who was then manager of the Oakland Oaks. The Mother's Cookies are pretty tough to find, especially so in high grades.
Referred to as "Exhibits" as they were issued by the Exhibit Supply Company of Chicago IL, these postcard-size cards were sold for 1 penny in vending machines. There are two Ted
Williams cards; one features Williams swinging and this one pictures him in his batting stance with his number "9" showing. This is a very tough card to find. The other Williams Exhibit is
much easier to acquire and is a real bargain for those wanting a vintage Ted Williams card. The more common Williams Exhibit (#9 not showing; swinging) lists for $35 in NM condition
(expect to pay a bit more), while this one (#9 showing; batting stance) lists for $375 in the same condition
TRIVIA QUESTION: What was the most times Ted Williams struck out in a single season? Scroll down to the bottom of this page for answer.
Williams cards; one features Williams swinging and this one pictures him in his batting stance with his number "9" showing. This is a very tough card to find. The other Williams Exhibit is
much easier to acquire and is a real bargain for those wanting a vintage Ted Williams card. The more common Williams Exhibit (#9 not showing; swinging) lists for $35 in NM condition
(expect to pay a bit more), while this one (#9 showing; batting stance) lists for $375 in the same condition
TRIVIA QUESTION: What was the most times Ted Williams struck out in a single season? Scroll down to the bottom of this page for answer.
Ralph Kiner (above left) was pure slugger. He led the National League in home runs his first seven seasons in the big leagues! Check out these home run numbers: 23, 51, 40, 54, 47, 42,
37. Keep in mind that in those days hitting 20 or more HR's meant you were a slugger. Kiner hit 50 or more home runs TWICE! In only 10 seasons, Ralph Kiner hit 369 home runs, numbers
that put this slugger in Baseball's Hall of Fame.
Larry Doby (above right) played only 13 big league seasons, mostly with the Cleveland Indians. He hit 253 career home runs, averaging 27 per season with 103 RBIs (over 162 game
schedule). Doby led the American League twice in Home Runs, bashing 32 HRs in both 1952 and 1954 (keep in mind Mickey Mantle was in the American League at this time). Larry Doby does
not get the publicity Jackie Robinson gets, but he was the first African American to play in the American League. He had to endure the same abuse as did Robinson. Doby was elected to the Hall
of Fame in 1998. He died in 2003.
37. Keep in mind that in those days hitting 20 or more HR's meant you were a slugger. Kiner hit 50 or more home runs TWICE! In only 10 seasons, Ralph Kiner hit 369 home runs, numbers
that put this slugger in Baseball's Hall of Fame.
Larry Doby (above right) played only 13 big league seasons, mostly with the Cleveland Indians. He hit 253 career home runs, averaging 27 per season with 103 RBIs (over 162 game
schedule). Doby led the American League twice in Home Runs, bashing 32 HRs in both 1952 and 1954 (keep in mind Mickey Mantle was in the American League at this time). Larry Doby does
not get the publicity Jackie Robinson gets, but he was the first African American to play in the American League. He had to endure the same abuse as did Robinson. Doby was elected to the Hall
of Fame in 1998. He died in 2003.
1971 Topps #230 Willie Stargell
1960 Post Mickey Mantle (cut from cereal box)
In 1960, Post cereal issued large "framed" pictures of sports stars on the backs of their cereal boxes. Included were Frank Gifford, Johnny Unitas, Bob Cousy, Bob Pettit, Don Drysdale, Al
Kaline, Harmon Killebrew, Ed Mathews, and Mickey Mantle. I am sure many were taped or pinned to kid's walls as there are not too many examples out there. Period. Very scarce issue
today. They must have been on to something as Post began issuing (200) card sets the following year, from 1961 through 1963.
Kaline, Harmon Killebrew, Ed Mathews, and Mickey Mantle. I am sure many were taped or pinned to kid's walls as there are not too many examples out there. Period. Very scarce issue
today. They must have been on to something as Post began issuing (200) card sets the following year, from 1961 through 1963.
Wilver Dornel Stargell, or Willie Stargell played for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1962 to 1982. He batted .282 lifetime, with 475 Home Runs and 1,540 RBIs. Over a 162 game
schedule, Willie averaged 33 HRs and 106 RBIs per season. Stargell led the NL in Home Runs twice, in 1971 (48) and 1973 (44). Fifteen times in his career he hit 20 or more home
runs. Twice he hit home runs completely out of Dodger Stadium; this was when Dodger Stadium was considered a "pitcher friendly" park. In 1979 Willie shared the NL MVP Award with
Keith Hernandez. Stargell, or "Pops" as he was affectionately called, batted .281 and swatted 32 home runs in only 424 at-bats in leading the Bucs to the World Series. In the '79 World
Series vs. the Baltimore Orioles, Stargell batted .455 with 12 hits, 4 doubles, 3 HRs, and 7 RBIs. The Pirates won the Series in 7 games with "Pops" leading the way. Willie Stargell was
voted into the Hall Of Fame in 1987. Sadly, Willie Stargell passed away on April 9, 2001. He was only 61 years old. I remember seeing Stargell play, especially in that 1979 World
Series and I will always remember him as a leader (there was no doubt he was the leader of that team), fun guy, and just one of those players who seemed to enjoy playing. I wish we could
see that more in today's players but now it is more of a business and it is too serious. Maybe it came to him later in his career, but that is what I remember about Willie Stargell. Rest in
peace, Pops.
schedule, Willie averaged 33 HRs and 106 RBIs per season. Stargell led the NL in Home Runs twice, in 1971 (48) and 1973 (44). Fifteen times in his career he hit 20 or more home
runs. Twice he hit home runs completely out of Dodger Stadium; this was when Dodger Stadium was considered a "pitcher friendly" park. In 1979 Willie shared the NL MVP Award with
Keith Hernandez. Stargell, or "Pops" as he was affectionately called, batted .281 and swatted 32 home runs in only 424 at-bats in leading the Bucs to the World Series. In the '79 World
Series vs. the Baltimore Orioles, Stargell batted .455 with 12 hits, 4 doubles, 3 HRs, and 7 RBIs. The Pirates won the Series in 7 games with "Pops" leading the way. Willie Stargell was
voted into the Hall Of Fame in 1987. Sadly, Willie Stargell passed away on April 9, 2001. He was only 61 years old. I remember seeing Stargell play, especially in that 1979 World
Series and I will always remember him as a leader (there was no doubt he was the leader of that team), fun guy, and just one of those players who seemed to enjoy playing. I wish we could
see that more in today's players but now it is more of a business and it is too serious. Maybe it came to him later in his career, but that is what I remember about Willie Stargell. Rest in
peace, Pops.
1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris
Everyone remembers Roger Maris as the (Steroid Free) single season HR champ with the 61 home runs in 1961. The previous season, Roger had finished 2nd in the AL HR race with 39
(behind Mantle, 40). In 1963, while considered "flop of the year" by the media, Maris connected for "only" 33 home runs. He had 100 RBI's for the 3rd consecutive year. In only 12
seasons, Maris bashed 275 HR's. That equates to 22.9 home runs a season. Not bad considering Maris played most of his career in the pitching dominant 1960's. Maris also hit 6 career
World Series home runs!
This 1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris is his last card as an active player, featuring him as a member of the NL Champion St. Louis Cardinals. Maris retired after the 1968 World Series.
(behind Mantle, 40). In 1963, while considered "flop of the year" by the media, Maris connected for "only" 33 home runs. He had 100 RBI's for the 3rd consecutive year. In only 12
seasons, Maris bashed 275 HR's. That equates to 22.9 home runs a season. Not bad considering Maris played most of his career in the pitching dominant 1960's. Maris also hit 6 career
World Series home runs!
This 1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris is his last card as an active player, featuring him as a member of the NL Champion St. Louis Cardinals. Maris retired after the 1968 World Series.
A few choice Mickey Mantle cards for your enjoyment....
Trivia Answer: 64, in 1939 (his rookie season).
1962 Topps #318 The Switch Hitter Connects (Mickey Mantle)
Top to bottom: 1955 Bowman #202, 1960 Topps #350 Clockwise from top left: 1957 Topps #95, 1959 Topps #10, 1963 Topps #200, 1966 Topps #50
1974 Topps #283 Mike Schmidt
Mike Schmidt was probably the premier slugger of the National League from the mid-1970's through 1980's. From 1974-1987, Schmidt slugged no less than 21 HRs, averaging about 37
per season! He led the N.L. in home runs an incredible 8 times including a career high 48 in 1980. A lot of fans think that Brooks Robinson is the all-time best third sacker; however Schmidt
was no slouch at third either. He won 12 Gold Gloves at the hot corner. Add 3 NL MVP Awards (1980, 1981, 1986), a yearly All-Star selection, a World Series title (1980, including MVP of
the Series!) and you have a Hall Of Famer. Schmidt was elected to the Hall Of Fame in 1995.
per season! He led the N.L. in home runs an incredible 8 times including a career high 48 in 1980. A lot of fans think that Brooks Robinson is the all-time best third sacker; however Schmidt
was no slouch at third either. He won 12 Gold Gloves at the hot corner. Add 3 NL MVP Awards (1980, 1981, 1986), a yearly All-Star selection, a World Series title (1980, including MVP of
the Series!) and you have a Hall Of Famer. Schmidt was elected to the Hall Of Fame in 1995.
1933 Goudey Big League Chewing Gum #53 Babe Ruth (back view)
George Herman Ruth started the home run craze. Not only did he break all the existing home run records (mostly his own) he set the standard for sluggers today. Every
slugger since has been compared to Ruth. Gehrig, Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Henry Aaron.... Not only are the players compared, but their stats as well.
For awhile, no one thought Ruth's single season (60) and all-time home run record (714) would ever be broken. Enter Roger Maris (61) and Hank Aaron (755). Ralph
Kiner was compared to Ruth because of his home run output (he lead the NL in HR's his first seven years in the big leagues) and of course Mickey Mantle's power was
compared to Ruth's. So today, Babe Ruth cards are probably the highlight or cornerstone of any baseball card collection.
The 1933 Goudey Big League Chewing Gum set of baseball cards is considered a true classic. The set includes 4 different Babe Ruth cards and they are the most
expensive cards in the series. Of course at the time Ruth was larger than life, a baseball AND American Icon so putting four different Ruth cards was a smart ploy by the
Goudey Gum Company. The set also features two cards of Lou Gehrig, plus tons of Hall of Famers like Jimmie Foxx, Rogers Hornsby, Tris Speaker, Mel Ott, Carl Hubbell,
Paul & Lloyd Waner, and more. While Ruth was featured on several issues during his playing career, none are as popular as these 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth cards. Even
in low grades the cards sell for good money; this 1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth graded SGC 30 Good lists for $1650 (approx.) in this condition.
slugger since has been compared to Ruth. Gehrig, Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Henry Aaron.... Not only are the players compared, but their stats as well.
For awhile, no one thought Ruth's single season (60) and all-time home run record (714) would ever be broken. Enter Roger Maris (61) and Hank Aaron (755). Ralph
Kiner was compared to Ruth because of his home run output (he lead the NL in HR's his first seven years in the big leagues) and of course Mickey Mantle's power was
compared to Ruth's. So today, Babe Ruth cards are probably the highlight or cornerstone of any baseball card collection.
The 1933 Goudey Big League Chewing Gum set of baseball cards is considered a true classic. The set includes 4 different Babe Ruth cards and they are the most
expensive cards in the series. Of course at the time Ruth was larger than life, a baseball AND American Icon so putting four different Ruth cards was a smart ploy by the
Goudey Gum Company. The set also features two cards of Lou Gehrig, plus tons of Hall of Famers like Jimmie Foxx, Rogers Hornsby, Tris Speaker, Mel Ott, Carl Hubbell,
Paul & Lloyd Waner, and more. While Ruth was featured on several issues during his playing career, none are as popular as these 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth cards. Even
in low grades the cards sell for good money; this 1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth graded SGC 30 Good lists for $1650 (approx.) in this condition.
"Mr. Cub" Ernie Banks
(For more on Ernie Banks see our New Chicago Cubs Page!)
(For more on Ernie Banks see our New Chicago Cubs Page!)
1958 Topps #487 Mickey Mantle All Star
If you want an affordable vintage Mickey Mantle baseball card from the 1950's, your best bet might be this 1958 Topps #487 Mickey Mantle All Star card. It was triple printed so it is
not hard to find and it is also very inexpensive. Expect to pay around $55 for a nice ungraded EX example. The card above grades about VG; it would sell for around $35, which is pretty cheap
for a vintage 1950's Mickey Mantle baseball card.
not hard to find and it is also very inexpensive. Expect to pay around $55 for a nice ungraded EX example. The card above grades about VG; it would sell for around $35, which is pretty cheap
for a vintage 1950's Mickey Mantle baseball card.
| 1951 Bowman Larry Doby |
1971 Topps Super Proof Hank Aaron
I saw this card on eBay and it seemed ridiculously priced for a vintage graded Hank Aaron proof card. $110? I wish I had the extra dough because I would have bought it. Anyway Topps
issued "Super" cards in 1969, 1970, and 1971. The 1969 Topps Super cards were small; they were called "Super" because of their superior color and high gloss fronts. The 1969 Topps
Super cards were issued in limited quantities as a test issue and are very valuable today. In 1970 and 1971 Topps Super cards really became "Super Sized." They are about postcard size
with rounded corners like the 1969 Topps Super cards. The 1970-71 Topps Super cards are very affordable today and are not difficult to find. This 1971 Topps Super Proof Hank
Aaron is a blank back proof card with square corners intact. What a terrific picture of "Hammerin' Hank!"
issued "Super" cards in 1969, 1970, and 1971. The 1969 Topps Super cards were small; they were called "Super" because of their superior color and high gloss fronts. The 1969 Topps
Super cards were issued in limited quantities as a test issue and are very valuable today. In 1970 and 1971 Topps Super cards really became "Super Sized." They are about postcard size
with rounded corners like the 1969 Topps Super cards. The 1970-71 Topps Super cards are very affordable today and are not difficult to find. This 1971 Topps Super Proof Hank
Aaron is a blank back proof card with square corners intact. What a terrific picture of "Hammerin' Hank!"
April 28,1971 Wire Photo Willie Mays & Hank Aaron
1934 Goudey #37 Lou Gehrig (Back view)
1948 Swell Sport Thrills #16 Three Run Homer In Ninth! (Ted Williams)
One of the underrated sets of the 1940's (along with the 1941 Double Play cards) is the 1948 Swell Sports Thrills cards. A small set consisting of just 20 cards, each one depicts a historic
baseball moment. Featured cards include Babe Ruth's called HR shot in the World Series, Jackie Robinson's Major League Debut in '47, Lou Gehrig's 4 HR's in a game, and more. This
particular card features Ted Williams' game winning 9th inning HR in the 1941All Star Game. Williams is seen here arriving at home plate and look who is greeting him- Joe DiMaggio
(wearing number 5). This card depicts two of the best hitters ever and can be had for less than a hundred bucks ( a bargain considering most 1940's DiMaggio and Williams cards sell for a
few hundred to over a thousand dollars (depending on condition). I recently saw this card for sale (All Marty's Stuff) for $100 (graded SGC 30 VG; looks nicer). Even at this price I think this
card is a bargain.
baseball moment. Featured cards include Babe Ruth's called HR shot in the World Series, Jackie Robinson's Major League Debut in '47, Lou Gehrig's 4 HR's in a game, and more. This
particular card features Ted Williams' game winning 9th inning HR in the 1941All Star Game. Williams is seen here arriving at home plate and look who is greeting him- Joe DiMaggio
(wearing number 5). This card depicts two of the best hitters ever and can be had for less than a hundred bucks ( a bargain considering most 1940's DiMaggio and Williams cards sell for a
few hundred to over a thousand dollars (depending on condition). I recently saw this card for sale (All Marty's Stuff) for $100 (graded SGC 30 VG; looks nicer). Even at this price I think this
card is a bargain.
1974 Topps # 610 Dave Kingman
Dave Kingman (aka. "Kong" or "Sky King") was really the first player (non Steroids) to hit over 400 career home runs and NOT be the Hall of Fame. Kingman hit 442 HRs, usually of the
mammoth variety and drove in 1210 runs. Over 162 game schedule "Kong" would have averaged 37 HRs and 101 RBIs per season! Unfortunately for Kingman he also average 152
strikeouts per season, hence a career batting average of .236. Not exactly Ted Williams (.344 lifetime) but if you are talking about pure sluggers you have to mention Dave Kingman. Kingman's
best year was probably as a member of the Chicago Cubs in 1979. He swatted 48 HRs (Led NL) with 115 RBIs and had a career high .288 batting mark. He led the league twice in HRs
(1979, 1982) and without a doubt would have more if not for Mike Schmidt (see above). This is my favorite Dave Kingman baseball card, from the 1974 Topps set (card #610). Kingman
started his career as an outfielder with the San Francisco Giants in 1971 so at one time the Giants had an outfield trio of Dave Kingman (442 career HRs), Willie Mays (660), and Bobby Bonds
(332). If my math is right that is 1434 gopher balls. That has to be some sort of record.
mammoth variety and drove in 1210 runs. Over 162 game schedule "Kong" would have averaged 37 HRs and 101 RBIs per season! Unfortunately for Kingman he also average 152
strikeouts per season, hence a career batting average of .236. Not exactly Ted Williams (.344 lifetime) but if you are talking about pure sluggers you have to mention Dave Kingman. Kingman's
best year was probably as a member of the Chicago Cubs in 1979. He swatted 48 HRs (Led NL) with 115 RBIs and had a career high .288 batting mark. He led the league twice in HRs
(1979, 1982) and without a doubt would have more if not for Mike Schmidt (see above). This is my favorite Dave Kingman baseball card, from the 1974 Topps set (card #610). Kingman
started his career as an outfielder with the San Francisco Giants in 1971 so at one time the Giants had an outfield trio of Dave Kingman (442 career HRs), Willie Mays (660), and Bobby Bonds
(332). If my math is right that is 1434 gopher balls. That has to be some sort of record.
1955 Topps Double Headers #69/70 Ted Williams