Top 5 Series 1 Signatures
Just over 30 years ago, Topps inserted its first on-card autographs into packs. It started a trend for the company that hasn’t stopped to this day. Collectors love autographed cards of their favorite players — and for good reason. Check out notable on-card autos and cut signatures from Topps Series 1 Baseball’s storied history.
Notable Series 1 Autos
5: 1997 Topps Series 1 Baseball Rookie of the Year Derek Jeter Auto
This might not be the most coveted autographed Derek Jeter card, but it has the cool factor. It honors the New York Yankees legend after winning the American League Rookie of the Year award in 1996. The on-card auto with Jeter’s beautiful penmanship makes it highly desirable. Just think about when Jeter signed that card. It would have been not long after he captured his first of five World Series titles. The Captain would go on to play 19 more seasons after his rookie campaign and finish sixth on the all-time hits list.
4. 2003 Topps Series 1 Baseball #AP B2 Albert Pujols Auto
It was still early in Albert Pujols’ career when this card was released. However, by the time Pujols was entering his third season with the St. Louis Cardinals, the 23-year-old was a bona fide star. In 2003, Pujols had the highest batting average (.359) in all of baseball and also led the majors in total bases (394), runs scored (137), runs created (176), extra-base hits (95), and doubles (51). The three-time MVP is one of only two players — the other being Hank Aaron — to ever hit over 700 home runs and collect 3,000 hits.
3: 2023 Topps Series 1 1988 Topps #88BA-MT Mike Trout Auto
Despite not being born yet when the 1988 Topps set was released, Mike Trout looks great in the 35-year anniversary card. Trout’s on-card is always beautiful. It never gets old seeing his proficiency with a Sharpie. Leading off third base and looking at his teammate in the batter’s box, the Los Angeles Angels star is ready to cross the plate. Trout — who has captured three MVPs in his first nine years in the league — was coming off a 2022 campaign in which he hit 40-plus home runs for the third time in his illustrious career.
2: 2023 Topps Series 1 Cut Signature #CS-JR Jackie Robinson 1/1
Topps’ design team really brought the heat in the 2023 Series 1 product. This cut signature comes from one of Jackie Robinson’s personal checks. The signature provides a special touch with it being on a non-sports-related item. A bank has stamped “Paid” on the check that is dated July 11, 1966. On the signature line is a mint auto by “Jack R. Robinson.”
1: 2024 Topps Series 1 Cut Signature #CSR-BR Babe Ruth Auto 1/1
Any autograph or relic that features MLB legend Babe Ruth is always highly sought-after and special. This specific cut signature is a beautiful specimen. Ruth’s aesthetically pleasing, precise signature while using a fountain pen just screams greatness. With The Great Bambino having passed away 75 years ago, the availability of his cut autograph keeps dwindling. It’s always a good day for collectors when Ruth autographs become available.
