Artmaus Collectibles Baseball Cards & Comics

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City January 14th, 2012

2012-01-08T17:28:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday January 14th, 2012. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday January 14th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Why Cards From 1980s and 1990s Have No Value

2012-01-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

Here is a great article from cardboard connection on why cards from 1980s and 1990s have no value today http://www.cardboardconnection.com/why-sports-cards-early-90s-worthless

New Items For the Holidays

2011-12-14T15:45:00.000-08:00

Stop by our Amazon store at http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A2UDXI3VCNEZ1S and our ebay store at
http://stores.ebay.com/Artmaus-Collectibles?_rdc=1 to find holiday gifts for the sports fan in your family.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah and Happy New Year to all!

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City-November 12, 2011

2011-11-07T18:42:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday November 12th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday November 12th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

New York City-Midtown Sports Card Show

2011-10-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday October 8th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday October 8th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Congratulations To Mariano Rivera For Becoming the All-Time Saves Leader

2011-09-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Mariano Rivera became the all-time saves leader with 602 saves on 9/19/2011 in saving the victory for the Yankees against the Minnesota Twins.

We have some new Mariano Rivera cards at Artmaus Collectibles which you can find at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005NKHFV4
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005NKG9CK and http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005NKFNNG

New York City-Midtown Sports Card Show

2011-09-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday September 10th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday September 10th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Topps Announces 2011 Topps Heritage Rookie Wrapper Redemption Cards For National

2011-07-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

If you purchase 5 packs of Topps Bowman cards at the National you can get wrapper redemption rookie cards of 5 players. They are
Wednesday, Aug. 3rd: Dustin Ackley
Thursday, Aug. 4th: Dee Gordon
Friday, Aug. 5th: Mike Moustakas
Saturday, Aug. 6th: Michael Pineda
Sunday, Aug. 7th: Zach Britton

Panini Announces National Wrapper Redemption Set

2011-07-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

Panini has announced that there will be a wrapper redemption tied to the National Sports card show. For more information go to http://paniniamerica.wordpress.com/2011/07/16/a-comprehensive-look-at-panini-americas-2011-national-wrapper-redemption-set/

Topps Reprints

2011-07-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I was at a card show recently and I purchased a Mark Sanchez Topps Chrome rookie card. I was pretty satisfied with the price and was going to resell it. When I got home and was going to post it on the internet I took a look at the back of the card to check the dates. I was shocked to see that it was 2010 and not 2009. I checked further and discovered it was a reprint which it does not state on the back of the card. I contacted the dealer who I know to be very reputable and he immediately offered a refund. I told him don't worry about as I didn't think it was his mistake and my guess is he got burned on the card as well as I know he doesn't buy boxes. The fault goes to Topps and no one else.
How does Topps put out a reprint of a card that was a rookie the year before? Is there absolutely no sense of creativity or concern for good product or does Topps feel they can just sell any product in a box for an inflated price? Topps needs to care about its customer base and put out a better product than they do. A reprint of a rookie card one year later is an embarrassment.

Artmaus Collectibles Talking about Sports Card Show on Card Board Connection Radio with Russ and Doug

2011-07-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

It was great talking about baseball, cards and the midtown sports card show with Doug and Russ on Card Board Connection Radio

Listen to internet radio with Cardboard Connection Radio on Blog Talk Radio

Midtown Sports Card Show-NYC Saturday July 9, 2011

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

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday July 9th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday July 9th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Midtown Sports Card Show NYC-Saturday June 11th

2011-06-06T17:45:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday June 11th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday June 11th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Dirk Nowitzki Cards

2011-06-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

There are lots of new Miami Heat and Dallas Maverick cards at Artmaus Collectibles.
Rookies, Patch and Jersey cards are available. Stop by our Amazon store for items like a Lebron James/Dwyane Wade Dual Jersey card or a Chris Bosh numbered rookie card. Jumbo jerseys and patch cards of Dirk Nowitzki too!
If you are a Bulls fan get your fill with Derrick Rose rookie jersey cards.
Stop by our Amazon store at http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A2UDXI3VCNEZ1S
If you are a fan of ebay you can see our items there too! http://stores.ebay.com/Artmaus-Collectibles?_trksid=p4340.l2563

Ebay/Paypal Fails to Check Illegal Buyers

2011-05-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

     Ebay and paypal are run in a very strange way.   I've recently had problems with each division of Ebay and the problems that I experienced should not have occurred.

     The first problem has to do with a buyer on Ebay. If you have ever sold copper or black bordered cards from Topps Series 1 then you have no doubt had a problem at some point. The buyer who I will not name is always the same. He bids on the cards and he does not pay for them. He has some software that allows him to change his user ID and reappear on Ebay after he is no longer a registered user. I have him on my blocked bidder list under at least 10 different names. Sellers and bidders both have notified ebay about the problem but they do nothing to solve the problem. I end up having to wait about 2 weeks before I can relist the item meaning I've lost at last 3 weeks and as everyone knows 3 weeks with cards can be a life time in some cases. Ebay says they don't have the time and hiring the personel to stop the problem would be too costly. They know the name of the person and having him investigated would solve the problem.  Ebay doesn't address the problem and it makes me and other sellers and bidders (he bids items up for no reason) unhappy causing a loss of business for Ebay. This make little sense to me.

     My other run in was with Ebays other company Paypal.   A buyer paid for an item and paypal said it was safe to ship.   I shipped the card and the next day paypal removed $40 from my account and said the item was under investigation. No explanation was given. I called them and was told they were suspicious of the buyer. The money would be put back into my account when the item was delivered (it was a good thing that I used delivery confirmation as I always do). When I told them I followed all their rules and that I did nothing wrong they said that was correct but this was their policy. So for 3 days they had my money. There was also the worry that the post office could lose the package and I would be out everything. Why was I punished when I did everything right and Paypal did everything wrong?   Again as in the incident above why doesn't ebay properly check the people who sign up with ebay/paypal before they are allowed to buy anything? The good news is that the item was delivered safely and they returned my money. They didn't return it immediately. I had to call them and ask them why it hadn't been done. Once I did they switched it back to my account.

    Ebay has lost business with sports cards to Sportsbuy, Amazon, Yardseller and more. These are among the reasons.

Midtown Sports Card Show-NYC Saturday May 14, 2011

2011-05-09T19:34:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday May 14th, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday May 14th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Stop By For a Visit at Artmaus Collectibles

2011-04-15T15:23:00.000-07:00

Upper Deck Evolution Video Card is Here!

2011-04-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City-Saturday April 9, 2011

2011-04-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday April 9, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday April 9th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

Topps Confirms 2011 Topps Heritage Short Print List

2011-03-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

*Base Cards 426-500 are short printed and can be found 1:3 packs.

*Replicating the original 1962 Topps , there are short printed GREEN TINT variations. Subjects include cards 110-158 and 160-196. These are found in hobby boxes only.

*There is also a BLUE TINT variation (found at Wal-Mart) and a RED TINT variation (found at Target) featuring the same subjects. These are also short printed.

*Collectors can also find GREEN REFRACTOR parallels (100 subjects) that are only found in Green Refractor Hot Boxes. These Hot Boxes are 1 per hobby case.

*And at retail outlets, collectors can find a special 100-card BLACK BORDERED parallel. They are exclusive to the $8.99 3-pack blister.

*There are 6 short printed ERROR VARIATIONS, which mimic the original set:

* Alex Rodriguez (Photo Reversed w/ bat in left hand)

* David Wright (Cincinnati Reds)

* Joba Chamberlain (Card # 139)

* Bengie Molina (Wrong birthday)

* Ryan Zimmerman (Wrong batting average)

* Vlad Guerrero (Listed as Pitcher on card back)

*And exclusive to hobby boxes, there is a special 10-card JACKIE ROBINSON STORY variation that has the look and feel of the Babe Ruth Story insert. In addition, there is a relic version of each card numbered to 42.

Upper Deck Attempts to Beat Panini With First Video Trading Card

2011-03-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

Upper Deck announced that they will put a video football trading product out called Evolution in April beating Panini to the punch. Here is a link to the Upper Deck announcement http://sports.upperdeck.com/news/article.aspx?aid=7761

Panini Announces First Ever HD Video Trading Card

2011-03-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

Panini has announced that they will be launching the first HD Video trading cards with hand numbered autographs. They will be placed in various Panini products. For more information on this new and creative idea watch the video

Dick Perez Discusses Diamond Kings and the Hobby

2011-03-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

Chris Olds interviews Dick Perez on Donruss Diamond Kings and the state of the hobby.
http://www.beckett.com/news/2011/03/dick-perez-discusses-diamond-kings-the-hobby-more-in-upcoming-issues-of-beckett-sports-card-monthly/

Midtown Sports Card Show-New York City-March 12, 2011

2011-03-07T16:08:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday March 12, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday March 12th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

PSA Grading System Video

2011-03-07T12:17:00.001-08:00

Here is a neat video on how PSA does their grading. Watch a step by step video showing the process.

Panini Announces 2010 Playoff Contenders Short Print List

2011-03-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

Panini announces the 2010 Playoff Contenders short print list http://paniniamerica.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/the-2010-playoff-contenders-football-short-prints-reveal-legendary-contenders/

Mickey Mantle 1952 Card #311 Voted #1 by Fans

2011-03-06T03:35:00.000-08:00

Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps Rookie card voted the top baseball card by fans and collectors. http://topps.com/sports/news/toppsNews.aspx?news_id=377

Hank Aaron's Rookie Card Now Worth The Same As His Rookie Salary!

2011-02-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

http://offthebench.nbcsports.com/2011/02/25/hank-aarons-rookie-card-now-worth-more-than-his-rookie-salary/

Baseball is Back!

2011-02-21T05:19:00.000-08:00

Baseball is back! Pitchers and catchers have arrived with all the new stories and adventures for the 2011 baseball season. It doesn't matter if you are a fan of the big market teams or small market teams early in pre-season because there is always hope that at this point your team will make it to the promised land. After a bitter winter spring training is welcomed more than ever and the fun is just beginning.

There are so many questions for the new year of baseball. Will Derek Jeter return to playing like Derek Jeter and reach 3,000 hits? Will Albert Pujols have another MVP season and sign with the Cardinals or become a free agent at the end of the season? Will Joey Votto have another MVP season and will the Reds take the next step to the playoffs? Can Zack Greinke get the Brewers over the top? Do a new Manager and young players like Jason Heyward and Freddie Freeman change the fortunes of the Atlanta Braves? Can Carlos Beltran and Jose Reyes make their new Manager look smart and can the Mets pitching staff shock the world? Was Buck Showalter just lucky last season or are the Orioles the team to shock the Red Sox, Yankees and Rays? Can the Angels return to their winning ways or is Texas officially the beast of the West? Can the Pirates young stars Andrew McCutchen and Jose Tabata become a new version of Barry Bonds and Bobby Bonilla? Will Don Mattingly be as good a Manager as he was a player? Will the Yankees find a 4 or 5th starter who can stop the Red Sox and Rays? Are the Red Sox as invincible as they look on paper? Do the Phillies have the best starting pitching staff of all-time? Which young star will step up to be the next Albert Pujols? Will the Giants repeat or were they a one season miracle? Will Buster Posey experience the sophmore jinx? Will Stephen Strasburg come back better or worse?

I could go on all day with the questions of the new baseball season because baseball gives us so many story lines and so much pleasure. Enjoy the season as it's always great!

If this is true a suspension is in order. Only David Stern can save the Knicks

2011-02-20T08:22:00.000-08:00

I have just read the following article http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AoMSFp0xA0wwDLNyDkxkAku8vLYF?slug=aw-thomasknicks022011 and I was thinking where are the commissioners like Fay Vincent in sports today who have the courage to take action against illegal activities.
Right now the New York Knicks and the NBA need a commissioner who will make the hard decision and suspend James Dolan from running the Knicks for at least a few years and ban Isiah Thomas for life from the NBA because of all the illegal activities.

It is against league rules for Isiah to be involved with the Knicks yet according to the article he seems to be running the team. James Dolan is also ignoring league rules by taking advice from Isiah Thomas. This alone should bring David Stern to the conclusion that Isiah Thomas and James Dolan should both be suspended.

Now throw in the fact that Isiah was involved in sexual harrassment and illegal draft activities that resulted in a fine of $200,000 and you have someone who has no concern about for the rules of law or the rules of the NBA.

If David Stern has any courage he will suspend both Dolan and Isiah and let the New York Knicks become truly respectable once again as they were in past.

Isiah and Dolan are about to gut a team for a great scorer who cannot play defense. It takes time to build a great team and the Knicks are on the way there with Donnie Walsh but with Isiah possibly in control there is no hope for true success. The commissioner must step in and take action to save the organization from further embarrassment.

Topps 2011 Series 1 Diamond Sparkle Short Print List

2011-02-19T05:43:00.000-08:00

Topps has announced the short short print list of cards with Diamond Sparkle for 2011 Topps Series 1.
http://topps.com/sports/news/toppsNews.aspx?news_id=374

Topps Annouces Albert Pujols Autograph Buyback Cards to be Included in 2011 Topps Tribute

2011-02-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

http://www.topps.com/sports/news/toppsNews.aspx?news_id=373

Topps Attax 2010 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP at Citi Field!

2011-02-16T05:07:00.000-08:00

This is great way to get kids involved in card collecting.

2011 Topps Valentine's Day Diamond Dig Highlights

2011-02-16T05:01:00.000-08:00

Something for the romantic card collector from Topps.

Strat-O-Matic Celebrates 50th Anniversary

2011-02-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

A great article by the New York Times on the 50th Anniversary of Strat-O-Matic. Do you have any stories of playing the game?
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/14/sports/baseball/14stratomatic.html?_r=1&src=me

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City February 12th, 2011

2011-02-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday February 12, 2011. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday February 12th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Inside The Topps Relic Room

2011-02-04T12:36:00.000-08:00

Topps video on where they store relics.

Teacher + Mariano Rivera=College Tuition

2011-01-21T12:07:00.000-08:00

Teacher sells classic baseball collection to send prized student to college
http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2011/01/21/2011-01-21_teacher_sells_classic_baseball_collection_to_send_prized_student_to_college.html

Upper Deck Unveils Wrapper Redemption Details for 2011 NHL® All-Star Fan Fair!

2011-01-21T05:45:00.000-08:00

Upper Deck Announces Wrapper Redemption Program http://sports.upperdeck.com/news/article.aspx?aid=7745

Beckett Magazine-The Rip off Report

2011-01-17T06:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ben Roberts for a great article on the rip off report at Beckett.
http://beta.beckett.com/group/185226/?tab=tabArticles&p=1400726#ViewArticle

First look: 2011 Topps Series 2 Baseball & 60th Anniversary ring

2011-01-15T04:20:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Beckett for this update on 2011 Topps Series 2 and the 60th anniversary ring.

http://beta.beckett.com/group/185223/?tab=tabArticles&p=1399154#ViewArticle

Tuff Stuff Magazine Comes to an End

2011-01-13T04:26:00.000-08:00

Tuff Stuff Magazine is ceasing publication. Here is a good article from The Cardboard Connection. http://www.cardboardconnection.com/sport-card-price-guide-tuff-stuff-releasing-final-issue-this-february

A Positive Outcome From Topps After Receiving Bad Redemptions-But

2011-01-05T17:49:00.000-08:00

I posted the following on October 28th-

Topps customer service is still a joke even with their videos saying how things have improved.

I recently purchased 5 boxes of 2009 Topps Ticket To Stardom and received 2 redemption cards. Both were for a Matt Cain Auto Relic. I posted one on ebay buy it now and the person who won it contacted me all upset saying that the redemption was no good. I then went to redeem the other one I have and that too was no good. The redemption card is to be good until 9/30/2012. I gave the person a full refund. How could the codes be bad when it came straight from the pack?
I contacted Topps and they have told me that I have to send the card in. No apologies and no attempt to take care of the problem online like they claim they will now. Why? Only an answer of that is the only way to do it. I will now be charged for envelope, postage and delivery confirmation to ship it. How about time at post office? The cards value is lost after these charges. I can give large scans of the cards to them but that for some reason is unacceptable. I can scan the bar codes from the boxes but that is unacceptable. Why?

I have contacted the Better Business Bureau on the matter. I will update when I get their response.

Topps has no respect for the customer.

Update-After Topps was contacted by the Better Business Bureau I received 4 cards in the mail. They were autographs of Barry Bonds, Dustin Pedoria, Steve Garvey and Andy Pafko. Now for me this was a good outcome. I was satisfied. However, I have 2 questions for Topps.
1. Why didn't you just send a Matt Cain autograph card to make up for the situation send 2. What if I was a Matt Cain or Giants fan? Seemed kind of odd to me but again I did better with what I received so I personally can't complain.
2. Why didn't you fix the problem before forcing me to go to the Better Business Bureau? Wouldn't it have been better customer service to help someone out to start than make them and you go through all the steps? What if I was a beginning collector? Possibly a life long customer would have been lost.
A good outcome for me but somehow I think it could have been easier all around if customer service had a better response to start.

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City January 8th, 2011

2011-01-04T05:56:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday January 8th. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday January 8th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Buzz Aldrin Sues Topps

2010-12-30T05:46:00.001-08:00

Here is an interesting article on Astronaut Buzz Aldrin suing Topps

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40842313/ns/technology_and_science-space/

PSA/DNA Releases List of Most Forged Autographs From Sports, History and Entertainment

2010-12-26T05:09:00.000-08:00

This is an interesting article on the most common forged autographs. Thanks to Cardboard Connection for the information. http://www.cardboardconnection.com/psadna-releases-list-of-top-10-most-forged-autographs

Panini America Behind the Scenes: The Trading Card Conference Room

2010-12-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

Tracy Hackler of Beckett and now Panini does an interesting video of the Panini conference rooms where he shows cards that have been framed sealed so they cannot be removed. He talks about their value having been lost and I wonder if he misses the point. Why is it always about value? Isn't the value seeing these great pieces in a frame? You are seeing your favorite players and cards in one spot and in an odd way its like visiting the Smithsonian of baseball cards to see them framed and on the walls of Panini. Maybe we should worry less about the value of the cards and more about the pleasure that they bring us. Its a neat video. Take a look.

eBay Sellers File Antitrust Lawsuit over Feedback Policy

2010-12-23T17:18:00.000-08:00

Ebay sellers have filed a lawsuit against Ebay over its DSR Feedback policy. Read the following article for more information http://www.auctionbytes.com/cab/abn/y10/m12/i23/s01

Sandy Koufax and Hank Aaron Sign Autograph Deals With Topps!

2010-12-23T17:14:00.001-08:00

Both Sandy Koufax and Hank Aaron will have autographs in 2011 Topps Gypsy Queen.

Mets All-Star David Wright meets his fans at Topps

2010-12-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

Winner of the Topps Meet David Wright Contest.

Topps Discusses New Baseball Product for 2011-Gypsy Queen

2010-12-23T17:01:00.000-08:00

This video gives some insight to the new Topps Gypsy Queen product which will replace National Chicle.
Here is a sample card of the new product

New Items on Amazon

2010-12-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

Take a look at our new items on Amazon. Lots of cards for any sports fan. Some of the items include a Josh Hamilton autograph, Willie Mays bat card, Brett Favre/Dan Marino dual jersey and a Larry Bird/Kevin McHale dual jersey. How about a Barry Bonds autograph! http://www.amazon.com/s/qid=1292600230/ref=sr_pg_2?ie=UTF8&me=A2UDXI3VCNEZ1S&rh=&page=2

Beckett Sells Yankees Cut Auto 1/1-Amazing Card

2010-12-17T07:32:00.000-08:00

I just found this auction on ebay and this is quite a card. How is it that Beckett always gets the best cards around? http://cgi.ebay.com/Topps-Legendary-Lineups-BABE-RUTH-LOU-GEHRIG-AUTO-1-1-/300505752062?pt=US_Baseball&hash=item45f789e1fe

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City December 11th, 2010

2010-12-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday December 11th. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday December 11th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Derek Jeter and the Evil Empire

2010-11-28T16:27:00.000-08:00

The Yankees are a corporation and if they don't pay Jeter what he is due then they are behaving like an evil empire.

Derek Jeter is the face of the Yankees in this decade. Whenever a speech is needed in front of the fans at Yankee Stadium it is Jeter who does it. Throw in the 3,000 hits that are approaching and he is w...orth more. The Yankees are a corporation making lots of money at the expense of the worker. They make more money than any other club and lets not forget their cable deals. Also throw in how much money they will make when Jeter reaches 3,000 hits. He will be the first Yankee to do so in history. Neither Ruth, Gehrig, Mantle or DiMaggio reached 3,000 hits. Jeter will make the Yankees a lot more money than any other player and he should be treated properly. This is another case of big business abusing a worker. For anyone working for a company and hasn't gotten a raise in years they should be happy to see Jeter fighting for what he deserves.

If the Yankees don't re-sign Jeter at a fair pay rate then they truly are an evil empire.

Are players paid too much? Yes, but the pay scale has been raised too high by the owners(namely the Yankees) and in the scope of things Jeter must be treated fairly.

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City November 13, 2010

2010-11-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City is this Saturday November 13th. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday November 13th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Topps Customer Service Fails Again

2010-10-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

Topps customer service is still a joke even with their videos saying how things have improved.

I recently purchased 5 boxes of 2009 Topps Ticket To Stardom and received 2 redemption cards. Both were for a Matt Cain Auto Relic. I posted one on ebay buy it now and the person who won it contacted me all upset saying that the redemption was no good. I then went to redeem the other one I have and that too was no good. The redemption card is to be good until 9/30/2012. I gave the person a full refund. How could the codes be bad when it came straight from the pack?

I contacted Topps and they have told me that I have to send the card in. No apologies and no attempt to take care of the problem online like they claim they will now. Why? Only an answer of that is the only way to do it. I will now be charged for envelope, postage and delivery confirmation to ship it. How about time at post office? The cards value is lost after these charges. I can give large scans of the cards to them but that for some reason is unacceptable. I can scan the bar codes from the boxes but that is unacceptable. Why?

I have contacted the Better Business Bureau on the matter. I will update when I get their response.
Topps has no respect for the customer.

Nuns selling rare Honus Wagner card-ESPN

2010-10-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

Honus Wagner card up for auction http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=5732365

New York Card and Coin Show-Rare Public Appearance by Vinny Pazienza-Saturday October 23rd

2010-10-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

This Saturday October 23rd it is once again time for the NY Card and Coin Show. The show runs from 10am-4pm and is located at 349 Quentin Road which is 1 block from the Avenue P stop on the F train.

For sports card fans of baseball, football, basketball, hockey and boxing it is a great time.

Making this show even more special Vinny Pazienza will be signing autographs.

Let's not forget if you are a coin collector there will be plenty of dealers to wet your appetite.

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City- Saturday October 9th, 2010

2010-10-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City returns this Saturday October 9th. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday October 9th from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Topps Announces Topps Chrome Rookie & Legend Wrapper Promotion

2010-09-30T06:40:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today a promotion for the wrappers from Topps Chrome Hobby boxes
http://www.topps.com/sports/news/toppsNews.aspx?news_id=346

2010 Topps Triple Threads Break Party Video

2010-09-29T16:51:00.000-07:00

Click on the link and watch the 2010 Topps Triple Threads case break

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B21W40VAZI

Brett Wallace of the Houston Astros is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookie #10

2010-09-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today that Brett Wallace of the Houston Astros is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookie #10. 10% of the cards will be autographed.

Topps Fixes Customer Service and Misses the Point

2010-09-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

Today Topps announced that they have an improved replacement policy program when you buy a box of cards and don't get the card you were promised. For instance when they promise 2 jersey cards and 1 autograph in a box of Topps and you only get 2 jersey cards and no autograph. For an example of how the new policy program will work go to http://www.topps.com/sports/news/toppsNews.aspx?news_id=345

However, Topps misses the point of quality control and customer satisfaction. Why are cards missing from products on such a frequent basis? Rather than hiring people to fix an error why not hire people to prevent an error? Wouldn't this make more sense? Mistakes/Errors will happen periodically but from years of dealing with Topps I know that this happens all too frequently. No one checks the product before it is sealed and they must because this is what helps to ruin the card industry.

I did quality control for photo labs for 20+ years. I dealt with photographers and advertising agencies. In an environment where artists and personal values rein I had an incredible record of success. I love the sports card industry and I don't want to see it continue to fail. Therefore I offer my services to Topps in an attempt to truly help them fix this problem. Let's make the industry fun and stress free again. Let the fans and dealers help Topps make it fun again.

Did MLB Do The Right Thing With Topps?

2010-09-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

Major League Baseball decided that only Topps would have the contract for baseball cards this year and because of it there is a lot less product on the market. There was a lot of buzz for Bowman this year thanks for Stephen Strasburg but other than that and now 2010 Topps Triple Threads it has seemed like a lackluster year for baseball cards as there isn't a lot of product out there this season due to the decision by Major League Baseball.

I personally would like to see more product. I still miss Donruss and Fleer. How do you feel? Do you think MLB did the right thing by only having one company do baseball cards or do you think there should be more product?

Visit Artmaus Collectibles for New Cards on Amazon and Ebay

2010-09-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Visit us on ebay to see new items such as a Vladimir Guerrero autograph/jersey and Robinson Cano Game Used Bat Ticket Stub card. You can see these items and more by visiting our ebay store at http://stores.ebay.com/Artmaus-Collectibles?_rdc=1

You can also visit us on Amazon for buy it now items at http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A2UDXI3VCNEZ1S. You will find items such as Lebron James jersey cards, Mark Sanchez rookie jersey cards and a Joe DiMaggio game worn jersey card number to 10. How about a Mickey Mantle comic book? Stop by for a visit and see lots more items that may be of interest.

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City

2010-09-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

The Midtown Sports card show in New York City returns after a summer break. Get sports card and memorabilia of all your favorite players and teams. Whether you want modern day or vintage cards all can be found at this great sports card show. With only $1 admission it is a great place to bring the family and have a great day out. The show is Saturday Sept 11 from 10 am -4 pm For more information contact Ron Dinkins at 212-865-4402 or info@midtownsportscardshow.net

The show is located at 332 W. 43rd Street which is between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Brooklyn Sports Card Show

2010-09-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

A new sports card show starts on Sunday September 12, 2010 from 9 am-4 pm. It should be a great show with cards of all your favorite players.

For more information contact John Menechino at 347-992-8240 or John@nycardandcoinshow.com

Has The Sports Card Industry Run Amok?

2010-08-31T06:07:00.000-07:00

Stephen Strasburg needs Tommy John surgery and could be out for as long at 18 months. It has been said by experts that his pitching motion is all wrong and he will get hurt again. Then why are people still spending ridiculous sums for his cards? Here are 2 examples that ended last night 8/30/2010 on ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/BGS-9-5-2010-Topps-Stephen-Strasburg-Rookie-AUTO-57-299-/140445783996?pt=US_Baseball&hash=item20b33897bc and http://cgi.ebay.com/BGS-9-5-2010-Topps-Stephen-Strasburg-Rookie-AUTO-57-299-/140445783996?pt=US_Baseball&hash=item20b33897bc

I really would like to know what is making people spend this kind of money on such a gamble. Is there nothing else out there to make sports card fans happy? Is this a hint that the sports card industry has run amok and is in trouble? I really have no answer for this strange behavior and would love to hear from the buyers of these cards as to why they are still buying such a risky product.

Rob Dibble Tells Stephen Strasburg To Suck it Up-Strasburg Needs Tommy John Surgery

2010-08-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

Rob Dibble said on Sirius XM Radio that "You can't have the cavalry come in and save your butt every time you feel a little stiff shoulder, sore elbow." He told him to suck it up. He said this about Stephen Strasburg who now needs Tommy John surgery for a torn ligament.

People made comments about J.R. Richard of the Houston Astros in 1979-1980 when he complained of not feeling well and took himself out of games. J.R. Richard who was on pace to end up in the Hall of Fame had a stroke. He tried to make a comeback but had to retire.

Rob Dibble and anyone else should realize that we are all different and all have different pain levels. We all can't be as tough as Rob Dibble. Someone may look fine but they can be sick. By Rob Dibble's way of thinking Jon Lester of the Red Sox should have pitched while going through chemotherapy.

Its okay to criticize a player for a poor performance but remember you are talking about a human being and he still deserves respect and the benefit of the doubt. We all go to work and many people are great workers who let nothing bother them and others get all stressed out when there is a new project or are being observed.

Rob Dibble should think about how other's feel before he tries to make a name for himself with outlandish and mistaken statements.

Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #10 is Ryan Kalish

2010-08-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #10 is Ryan Kalish of the Boston Red Sox.

Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #9 is Domonic Brown

2010-08-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #9 is Domonic Brown of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Who is the Greatest Baseball Player Ever? Baseball is a Team Game

2010-08-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

How do you pick a best player? Some would say Babe Ruth was the greatest because he was a great pitcher and hitter. However, he didn't have speed. He wasn't the greatest defensive outfielder either. Willie Mays had those and power but he never pitched and wasn't a catcher which is considered the hardest position to play. Does that mean Yogi Berra, Johnny Bench or Ivan Rodriguez were the greatest players ever?

You can pick players who were great at their positions but to pick an overall greatest player is subjective and without any true basis. Even when you pick individual players by position it is completely subjective. How can you pick Lou Gehrig or Albert Pujols when they played in different eras with different training and equipment available to them.

All that said it is fun to pick your favorite player or the best player of all-time. For me there was no greater center fielder than Willie Mays as he could do everything. Was he the greatest player? No. Ruth, Mays, Mantle, Ted Williams ( missed 5 years for military service lowering his already great numbers), Ty Cobb, Albert Pujols, Ken Griffey, Lou Gehrig, Roberto Clemente, Pete Rose and many many more were all great but none were perfect at every facet of the game. Baseball is a team game and that is what makes it special.

Stephen Strasburg Hurt Again-Buy Cards for Love and Not Profit

2010-08-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Stephen Strasburg was pitching against the Phillies last night and hurt his elbow. He is going for an MRI. This is the second injury he's had in a very short career. He's had cards sell for $25,000 and $17,000. The 2010 Bowman boxes have been ridiculously priced and people have gone crazy opening boxes just to get his autograph. Topps has gotten very rich because of this but other people have spent money on what may turn out to be valueless cards.

Bryce Harper is probably the next big prospect. Will people go crazy spending money on his cards? I hope not. The odds of one of these prospects becoming great isn't that great. The Major Leagues are littered with the next Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Willie May and Mickey Mantle. Mark Prior, J.D. Drew, Kerry Wood, David Clyde, Brien Taylor, Tim Belcher, Alex Gordon and many many more.

If you are going to collect sports cards do it for love of collecting and not for profit. When a kid gets a card of a favorite player as long as his picture is on it the kid is happy. Why do we lose our innocence? It is the fan that creates the market. Create that market for the love of cards and not the love of profit.

Bobby Thomson Dies at Age 87-Shot Heard Round The World

2010-08-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Bobby Thomson has died at the age of 87. Here is a good article about his life and famous home run
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/A-Giant-is-gone-Bobby-Thomson-dies-at-age-86?urn=mlb-263060

New Items & Topps Attax Football & Baseball

2010-08-15T15:23:00.000-07:00

Stop by our Amazon store at http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A2UDXI3VCNEZ1S for new items such as a Joe DiMaggio 2008 Upper Deck Baseball Heroes Game Worn Jersey Serial #02/10 and a Mark Sanchez 2009 SPX Dual 2 color jersey card. There are many more items that you will find interesting so stop by for a visit.

If you are a Topps Attax fan and enjoy playing the game visit our ebay store for both football and baseball Topps Attax cards at http://stores.ebay.com/Artmaus-Collectibles_2010-Topps-Attax_W0QQ_fsubZ1422024013QQ_sidZ3877243QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322

Say hello to us on twitter at http://twitter.com/Artmaus or on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/manage/#!/pages/Brooklyn-NY/Artmaus-Collectibles/307130104585

2010 Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #8

2010-08-11T07:24:00.001-07:00

2010 Topps Finest Rookie redemption card #8 is Dayan Viciedo.

Domonic Brown named 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookie #7

2010-08-11T07:20:00.001-07:00

2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies redemption card #7 is Philadelphia Phillies Domonic Brown.

2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies Redemption #6

2010-08-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies redemption card #6 is Florida Marlin Logan Morrison.

Starlin Castro is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookie #5

2010-08-02T07:44:00.001-07:00

Topps announced today that Starlin Castro is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies redemption card #5.

Stephen Strasburg Cards and Injury

2010-08-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

On 7/28/2010 Stephen Strasburg's Bowman Autograph Red Rookie Serial #1/1 sold for $17,000. The seller used the auction house Huggins and Scott auctions.   The autograph was a better card than the Bowman Superfractor 1/1 which sold for $25,000 on ebay. Was this a sign that the market for Strasburg was beginning to die off or was his injury a factor in the final bidding?

Tom Verducci has an interesting article on the pitching style of Stephen Strasburg and how it compares to Mark Prior http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/tom_verducci/07/30/strasburg.trades/index.html?eref=sihp

  What this tells me is that you should be a collector for fun and enjoyment of the hobby and not to get rich. Too many collector's now are looking for the holy grail.   Remember when you got excited just seeing a common card of your favorite player? The stats on the back meant more than any jersey or bat card.

Baseball players are fragile like all people and collecting their cards for profit is the same as playing the lottery.   The odds are against you. You may get lucky but its not likely.

Imagine spending $17,000 or $25,000 on a baseball card and having it become worth no more than a few dollars.   You better really love that player or have lots of money in the bank.

Lou Piniella announces retirement

2010-07-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

Lou Piniella announced his retirement at the end of the season today. He's had a great career as a manager and a player. He was the AL Rookie of the Year in 1969 and won 2 World Series with the Yankees in 1977 and 1978.

Who can forget the Cincinnati Reds of 1990 who defeated the heavily favored A's in the World Series in 4 games. He also won AL Manager of the year in 1995 and again in 2001 when his Seattle Mariners won a record tying 116 games.

For any card collector looking for a great card to remember Sweet Lou by look no further than his 1964 Topps rookie card. Its a great card of a great player and manager. Sweet Lou had a great career.

Give Us Real Sports Journalism and More Facts

2010-07-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

I want to take a moment to get away from sports cards and talk about the lack of journalism in sports.   It seems that gossip and lack of information is more important than what is really happening.

This weekend Dwyane Wade said the following, "We're going to be wearing a bullseye. But that's what you play for," Wade said. "We enjoy the bullseye. Plus, there's going to be times when we lose 2-3 games in a row, and it seems like the world has crashed down. You all are going to make it seem like the World Trade is coming down again, but it's not going to be nothing but a couple basketball games."

A big deal was made about it and it is really a non-story. All he was doing is saying that people will make a big deal when the Heat lose a few games and they shouldn't. He made it more dramatic to make his point but to accuse him of insensitivity because he used the World Trade Center is nonsense. I live in New York and I grew up here. I spent a lot of time in that area and still do and in no way was I offended.   This is really a non-issue. Wouldn't a better story be one where a true investigation is done to see how and when the 3 stars of James, Bosh and Wade came together to make their union and how they truly affected the other franchises by holding them at bay until the last second? Cleveland for example had no chance to make an attempt for a free agent of quality because Lebron James kept them waiting.

Another story this past week that bothered me was the George Steinbrenner passing. Every article I read seemed to be about what a great guy George was and all he did for the less fortunate. Now it is true that Mr. Steinbrenner did some wonderful things as can be seen in the story of Ray Negron a young man who was caught by Mr. Steinbrenner putting grafitti on Yankee Stadium and gave him a place as a Yankee bat boy. A wonderful story and there are many more. That said why were stories about Mr. Steinbrenner pleading guilty to illegal campaign contibutions to Richard Nixon and being suspended from baseball for 2 years by Bowie Kuhn almost non-existent? What about his giving Howie Spira $40,000 to dig up dirt on Dave Winfield and leading to another suspension? Why only the good and none of the bad? When it comes to journalism it should be more than just saying nice things about someone who has passed. We as citizens of a free nation need freedom of speech and all the information.

A great story on Mr. Steinbrenner might be how he could have gone all those years and never known that steroids existed in his clubhouse. How about his big cable deal that gives no more than 20 games a year on free TV not allowing people who can't afford the YES network to have the Yankee experience. How many people can take their kids to a baseball game now that Mr. Steinbrenner gave so much money to free agents making tickets out of reach for parents who are middle class or poor?

Instead of all the gossip in sports maybe its time for real journalism like Red Smith and Dave Anderson used to give us in their columns. So much time was spent on who would Lebron James sign with but little was spent on how it really affects the economy.   Little mentions but no details.

Give us more sports news and less lackluster information.

Jamey Carroll L.A. Dodgers Player & Artist

2010-07-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

Carroll of the L.A. Dodgers is an artist as well as a baseball player. Watch this interesting video to learn more about Jamey Carroll the baseball playing artist
http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=9263695

Mike Stanton is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookie Redemption #4

2010-07-15T12:28:00.000-07:00

Topps which took weeks to name Red Hot Rookies redemtion cards #1-3 has now announced #4 after announcing #3 yesterday. Very odd how they do things over at Topps.

The Red Hot Rookie redemption #4 card is Mike Stanton of the Flordia Marlins.

Brennan Boesch is 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies Redemption #3

2010-07-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today that the Red Hot Rookies redemption card #3 is Brennan Boesch of the Detroit Tigers.

Andrew Cashner 2010 Topps Finest Redemption #7

2010-07-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today that Andrew Cashner is the 2010 Topps Finest redemption card #7 and it is autographed.

2009-10 Panini Studio Review

2010-07-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

This will be a 2 part review because one is for the product and one is for Sports Card Kids located on the web at http://www.sportscardkids.com/home.php

I won the box in a contest from Sports Card Kids and the delivery time and shipping were fast and prompt. The service that Jeremy gives is great. I highly recommend them.   He has lots of contests and single cards that should interest everyone's taste.

It is always great to get a free product and I don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth but I don't have a positive review for this product. For a box of cards that is $75 on average you don't get a great product. You do get a rookie or insert in every pack but I did not receive anyone sooner than the number 7 draft pick Stephen Curry.   It is nice to get rookies but why aren't any of the top picks in the box? Most of the insert sets are not numbered but should be numbered as they would increase the value for the collector.

My biggest gripe on the product is the legends cards. When did Mark Eaton become a legend? Or Kelly Tripuka? Rick Barry and Wes Unseld are legends but some of the legends they have listed are just old timers and should be listed that way.

I pulled a Tyler Hanbrough autograph rookie numbered to 49 which was the best card in the box. I received 3 jersey cards the best one being Kevin Garnett numbered to 249. The others were Gilbert Arenas and Gerald Henderson.

The design of the cards is nice and the few parallels are well made but poor rookie selection, ridiculous legends, lack of numbered cards and the inability to complete a set from a box are all disappointing.

If you are a parent buying this product for your kid I would stay away. If you are a collector looking for something special I would stay away from it as well.

However, it was free and I got great service so I'm happy.

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City July 10, 2010

2010-07-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

This Saturday July 10, 2010 it is once again time for the New York City Midtown Sports Card Show located in Manhattan on 43rd Street between 8th and 9th avenue at the Holy Cross School.

Its a great way to spend time with the family for a cheap price as it is only $1 admission. You can find sports cards and memorabilia of all your favorite players in all sports from the past to the present. Maybe you'll find a Mickey Mantle jersey or a Lebron James autograph or a vintage Ted Williams and a Sidney Crosby patch card.

Charlie Manuel Gets Strasburg Right and Votto Wrong

2010-07-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

I applaud Charlie Manuel for not joining the band wagon of people who think Stephen Strasburg deserves on the NL All-Star team. He has pitched great but compared to the pitchers selected he has not pitched enough innings to merit being chosen. He showed against the Mets that it will be awhile before we know how good he may or may not be when he had trouble finding the plate in the first inning of the game. I hope to see Strasburg improve and appear on next years team but at this point he has not paid his dues and is just a media sensation.

In the same breath I am very disappointed in Charlie Manuel for picking his player Ryan Howard over MVP candidate Joey Votto at first base. I understand that managers pick their players but sometimes there is right and wrong and with Philadelphia in third place and the Reds in first Joey Votto deserves the nod. Ryan Howard is a great player and if someone can't make the team I would love to see him on it but not choosing Votto was blatantly partisan on the part of Manuel. Votto has 19 homers 57 RBI and a .313 batting average while Ryan Howard has 15 homers, 58 RBI and a .296 batting average. If both teams were in first I would have no problem with the choice as the numbers are very close but Votto should get the nod with slightly better numbers and a better team at this moment.

Stephen Strasburg Superfractor Seller Makes $8,000 Profit

2010-06-30T16:13:00.000-07:00

Stephen Strasburg 2010 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Serial #1/1 resold this past weekend for $25,000 on ebay. Though I do believe it is crazy to pay this much money for a card of a player who has only pitched 4 games in the Major Leagues I do have to give credit to the original buyer of the card who paid $16,000 and made an approximate $8,000 profit.

The sad part is that when the hype wears off now matter how great Stephen Strasburg may become the card will devalue as most cards like this do.

Someone paid $4200 for an Ubaldo Jimenez Superfractor Serial #1/1 this past week. He's had a great season but has anyone noticed the last 2 games that his ERA has jumped. Maybe a miracle can happen and he can win 30 games. All I can say to that is who owns Denny McLain cards and what are their value?

Buy the cards because you love the hobby and not because you want to make a quick buck in most cases unless you make an $8,000 profit right away.

2010 Topps Finest Redemption #6 is Stephen Strasburg

2010-06-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today that Topps Finest redemption card #6 is Stephen Strasburg.

2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies #2 is Jose Tabata

2010-06-22T07:52:00.001-07:00

Topps has announced that 2010 Topps Red Hot Rookies #2 is Jose Tabata of the Pittsburgh Pirates

Topps Red Hot Rookie #1

2010-06-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

Topps announced that Red Hot Rookies #1 is Carlos Santana who is a catcher for the Cleveland Indians. Now Carlos Santana has a possibly great future and is hitting .333 as of today, but Topps naming him as the #1 Red Hot Rookie wasn't right.

Yes, most were hoping for Stephen Strasburg but there is no guarantee that it would be him. Topps knows that people were spending an average of $20-50 on the card and that one went as high as $129 on ebay. Knowing this if they wanted to have a player other than Strasburg they should have made it an autograph or someone like Brendan Boesch on the Tigers or Mike Stanton. This way people could have gotten something positive for their investment. Now people will spend too much money on #2 hoping for Strasburg. Will Topps again disappoint and not give people fair bang for their buck?

If you read comments on facebook you will find that a lot of people have said they will no longer buy cards from Topps after the naming of Carlos Santana as the #1 Red Hot Rookie. They feel cheated and they are right to feel that way.

Topps needs to realize that its about more than their making money. Its about a hobby growing and keeping the people who make the hobby what it has become. Don't take the love away of sports cards away because of greed. Treat the collector with respect.

Mike Stanton is 2010 Topps Finest Rookie Redemption #5

2010-06-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

Topps announced to day that Mike Stanton is 2010 Topps Finest Rookie redemption card #5. The previous 4 are
1. Jason Heyward
2. Ike Davis
3. Starlin Castro
4. Mike Leake

Mike Leake Topps Rookie Redemption #4

2010-06-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

Topps announced today that Mike Leake is 2010 Topps Finest rookie redemption #4

Stephen Strasburg Rookie in Topps Million Cards

2010-06-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

Topps announces that Stephen Strasburg rookie can be found in Topps Milion cards series 1 and 2. For more information go to the Topps blog at http://www.toppsblog.com/?p=461

Midtown Sports Card Show New York City June 12, 2010

2010-06-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

This Saturday June 12, 2010 it is once again time for the New York City Midtown Sports Card Show located in Manhattan on 43rd Street between 8th and 9th avenue at the Holy Cross School.

Its a great way to spend time with the family for a cheap price as it is only $1 admission. You can find sports cards and memorabilia of all your favorite players in all sports from the past to the present. Maybe you'll find a Mickey Mantle jersey or a Lebron James autograph or a vintage Ted Williams and a Sidney Crosby patch card.

2010 Topps Attax Starter Box Review

2010-05-23T07:34:00.000-07:00

2010 Topps Attax Starter Boxes are a great product for kids and collectors. First of all its a cheaper product that is very affordable in the $30-35 range for 8 boxes. Kids can buy the product and not use up all of their allowance and parents won't go broke.

The product has Legends which are sepia toned foil. Some of the players are Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle and Ty Cobb. Then there are the Superstars which are gold foil and you get modern day stars such as Albert Pujols, Derek Jeter and Tim Lincecum. Then you have the silver foil of players who had a Hot Streak during 2009 and you can get players like Ubaldo Jimenez and Dustin Pedroia. All the cards have a refractor look to them and are well designed.

There is the regular base set which allows you to get your favorite players from your favorite teams. The only draw back to the product which I see here is that you cannot get a full team of players for all teams. I'm hoping that next year Topps fixes this problem and there will be complete team sets so the game can be played team against team using your favorite teams rather than going for mostly all-star teams.

You also get code cards and the game can be played online at http://www.toppstown.com/ where the game is also explained. It is a great site for any budding card collector and baseball fan.

Finally in the starter box you also get a game board. This allows you to play the game and have a great time. There are card shops around the country having tournaments which is a great thing for the hobby in renewing interest.

This is a fantastic product for kids who want to have fun with baseball cards! 5 stars!

A Unique Collection

2010-05-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

I had a friend who died a few years ago who had a very unique collection.   He would send to all the coaches of all the teams for autographs. His collection was over 20 years old and his favorite was New York Mets coach Joe Pignatano.   This was a unique collection that really had no value because he really had no proof that the signatures were signed by the coaches and not someone else as does happen. It didn't matter to him because it was not about money but the pleasure and thought that it was possible it had been signed by the coaches. His collection was a work of love, fun and pleasure and not for monetary gain.

He also was a set builder.   He was a big baseball fan and loved collecting. He would go to card shows with his notebook and get there at the same time the dealers did and leave when the dealers did. He loved to be around and be a part of collecting and baseball and the shows helped him with that because he could spend the day talking baseball and baseball cards.

Now everyone talks about how much their cards are worth.   An example of that would be a Stephen Strasburg auction on ebay which is at $8,600 with 7 days to go http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190398394834&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Now I do have hope for card collecting as I see all the parents and kids buying 2010 Topps Attax. Its a cheap product and the kids are playing with the cards and enjoying them. I had a parent tell me this week after he got a Mickey Mantle Topps Attax card that his son would be thrilled when he got it.

I have written 2 consecutive blogs about people buying Stephen Strasburg cards for inflated prices. I am bothered by it. I wish him the best of luck and I do hope he turns out great but the point is he hasn't done anything yet.   The prices that people are paying for 2010 Bowman Draft cards are over the top right now but will the product be worthless if most of the players are nothing more than a flash in the pan? How can people spend so much money on these cards in a bad economy?

Like my friend collect for fun and pleasure and don't make card collecting into another stock market where gambling rules the roost.