What am I Chasing? Firsts & Autos & Patches
Why Scarcity Matters
Parallels
Superfractors
{{ SECTION TITLE }}
Ok, you opened your first box of cards.
Let’s talk about the three biggest chase cards that every collector hopes to find
Want to know more about firsts, autos, and patches?
Here’s what you should know as you begin your chase:
ROOKIE CARD
The first cards that are released following a player’s Major League debut.
BOWMAN FIRST
The first time a prospect (e.g. a college or minor league player) appears in a Bowman set
Today, rookie cards are designated by an “RC” stamp on the front of the card
Similarly, First Bowman cards are designated with a special ‘1st’ or ‘1st Bowman’ stamp. just like the one above.
And then there’s Patch Cards
Cards that feature a multi-colored jersey patch embedded in the card itself.
and Autograph Cards
Signed by a player, celebrity, or subject.
But not all first, autos, and patches are created equal.
Another key factor is the scarcity of the card itself.
So for our next lesson, let’s talk a bit more about scarcity…
{{ SECTION TITLE }}
One of the biggest factors that make chase cards chase-worthy is their level of scarcity.
Let’s begin with a review of why scarcity matters
The most desired and desirable chase cards tend to be ultra scarce.
For example …
The T206 Honus Wagner (1909)
With less than 100 copies known to exist, it’s one of the most iconic and valuable cards ever made
Topps Gold Refractors
Gold Refractors are limited to 50, and are one of the most coveted parallels in the hobby
let’s talk more about parallels…
{{ SECTION TITLE }}
Some of the biggest chase cards are Parallels
So what’s a parallel and why does it matter?
When chasing parallels, be on the lookout for numbered parallels, which are highly (and precisely) limited
Here’s how to identify them
Purple Refractor Parallels are limited to /250.
(THIS PARTICULAR CARD IS #80 OF 250)
Gold Refractor Parallels Are Limited To 50
This one is #2 of 50
Some parallels are even limited to 1/1
the rarest of all!
Which brings us to the Superfractor…
{{ SECTION TITLE }}
Let’s talk about Superfractors
Superfractors can be found across Topps brands and products