The 1971 Topps issue stands out when compared to Topps previous offerings. Issued in seven series, these black-bordered beauties are bold, but they are very susceptible to wear. The black frames show every flaw, making this issue one of the toughest sets to assemble in high grade.
Sporting more than 40 cards featuring Hall of Fame members, the 1971 Topps set was a little light on major rookie cards but isn’t lacking for Hall of Famers and other stars. Most notably are the headliners of Nolan Ryan, Roberto Clemente, and the second-year card of Thurman Munson. Close behind these three come veterans like Hank Aaron, Pete Rose, and Willie Mays, as well as rookie cards of Dusty Baker, Steve Garvey, and Bert Blyleven.
The Vintage Set Break of the Week is a 1971 Topps set that is EX-MT overall. The set breaks down to approximately 10% NM, 25% EX-MT, 40% EX, and 20% VG-EX. The key cards in this set grade as follows: #5 Thurman Munson EX-MT, #513 Nolan Ryan EX, #600 Willie Mays EX-MT, and #630 Roberto Clemente EX.
If you haven’t been part of a group break, each card is sold at a fixed price, but you don’t pick the card beforehand. When all spots are sold, the cards are distributed randomly to the participants. Some will get the key cards for a fraction of their value, while others take home vintage commons for sets or trade bait. In order to ensure transparency, the randomization is broadcast live online for all participants to view.
This break turned out to be exceptionally popular with spots at $2.99 per card and 752 cards available. You can access the break page here. Unfortunately, the break sold out a few hours after being posted (before this article was published). The good news is that BurlsSports is still giving away one slot in the break. Check out the details on how to enter the giveaway here. BurlsSports next set break is 1941 Play Ball, scheduled to go on sale on February 26.
Burl’s Sports has recently acquired an impressive run of complete vintage sets that will be broken in the coming months, including a complete run of Topps sets from 1952-72, Goudey sets from 1933-36, 1939-1941 Play Ball and 1941 Double Play.
Related Stories:
Vintage Set Break of the Month: 1972 Topps Baseball
Eddie Murray’s First Cards Go Beyond Topps Rookie
1971 Topps Baseball Was a Dark Ride for Collectors
Best Baseball Rookie Cards of the 1970s
1971 Topps Super Baseball Set Ended Brief Era
Vintage Set Break of the Week: 1970 Topps Baseball
Vintage Set Break of the Week: 1965 and 1966 Topps
Vintage Set Break of the Week: 1952 Topps
Bochy Looks Back at Career Through His Old Cards
Clemente Still Revered By Fans and Collectors
