SPOILER ALERT: A guest on Antiques Roadshow brought in a collection of childhood baseball cards that turned out to be worth a significant amount of money. The guest, a pensioner from Green Bay, shared that her husband’s friends either taped their cards to their walls or had their mothers throw them away. However, her husband’s cards were saved by his mother, who stored them in a grocery bag in the attic.
In a stroke of luck, the guest decided to look at the cards one weekend and discovered that they had a valuable collection. Shortly after this realization, a tornado struck their home, causing most of the house and the attic to disappear. Thankfully, the cards had been rescued just a month prior to the disaster. The husband had even forgotten what cards he had until they were organized.
Expert Grant Zahajko then assessed the cards individually, noting that their value depends on their condition. The cards were given a numerical grade from one to 10, with 10 being in perfect condition. The first card Zahajko examined was a 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson card, which he rated as a six. He described it as having wonderful color, minimal corner damage, and near-perfect surface condition. He estimated its auction value to be between $2,000 and $4,000.
Next, Zahajko evaluated a 1954 Wilson Franks premium card featuring Ted Williams. Although it appeared to be in better condition than the others, it had some staining on the back and a difficult-to-detect crease on the lower left corner. He also estimated its auction value to be between $2,000 and $4,000.
This incredible discovery of valuable childhood baseball cards serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving sentimental items and the potential hidden treasures they may hold.
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle Rookie Card Valued at $30,000 to $40,000 on Antiques Roadshow
In a recent episode of Antiques Roadshow, a lucky guest was left stunned when her husband’s prized possession, a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card, was appraised at a jaw-dropping value of $30,000 to $40,000. The iconic Topps rookie card is a must-have for any collector of Mickey Mantle baseball cards, according to expert appraiser Zahajko.
Zahajko was particularly impressed with the card’s surface, noting minimal fading and little corner or touch wear. Assigning it a numerical grade of five, Zahajko explained that the numerical grades hold significant importance to collectors. In fact, the difference between a five and six grade can result in tens of thousands of dollars.
The guest, taken aback by the appraisal, exclaimed, “You’re kidding! Seriously!” The pensioner couldn’t contain her excitement, realizing that her husband would be overjoyed with the news. She thanked Zahajko profusely, expressing her disbelief at the card’s incredible value.
Antiques Roadshow, a popular show available to watch on PBS, continues to surprise and delight viewers with its impressive appraisals of rare and valuable items.
