The 1957 Topps baseball set was a landmark issue. It was the first set made from player photographs and also the largest gum card set to date at over 400 cards. Although the ’50s photography left many images appearing excessively dark, the white borders and classic stadium
backdrops have made it a favorite of collectors for decades.
The set is anchored by Mickey Mantle, but also has some excellent rookie cards like Hall of Famers Brooks and Frank Robinson, Don Drysdale, Jim Bunning, Bill Mazeroski and the ever-popular Rocky Colavito. There are 32 Hall of Famers in the set. Over 1/4 of the set features either a scarce series card (#265-352) or a player enshrined in Cooperstown.
A 1957 Topps set is the focus of the Burl’s Sports Vintage Set Break of the Week with several of the key cards already graded. The set break includes: #1 Ted Williams VG PSA 3, #2 Yogi Berra VG PSA 3, #10 Willie Mays G/VG PSA 2.5, #20 Hank Aaron VG-EX, #35 Frank Robinson VG-EX, #55 Ernie Banks VG-EX, #76 Roberto Clemente VG PSA 3, #95 Mickey Mantle VG-EX+ SGC 55/4.5, #97 New York Yankees Team Card VG-EX PSA 4, #125 Al Kaline VG-EX PSA 4, #302 Sandy Koufax VG PSA 3, #328 Brooks Robinson EX SGC 60/5, #400 Dodgers Sluggers VG-EX+ BVG 4.5, #407 Yankees Power Hitters VG.
Each card in a group break is sold at a fixed price ($12.50 in this case). When all spots are sold, the cards are distributed randomly to the participants. Some will get the ke
y cards for a fraction of their value, while others take home vintage commons for set building or trade bait. In order to ensure transparency, the randomization is broadcast live online for all participants to view.
To participate or learn more, click here. A free spot is given away in every break. You can visit Burl’s Sports Facebook page for details.
Burl’s is breaking a large run of vintage sets, including a complete run of Topps sets from 1952-72, Goudey sets from 1933-36, 1939-1941 Play Ball and 1941 Double Play. For the rest of this year, the breaks will be working their way back through the ‘50s Topps issues. For dates for upcoming breaks, check out this link. All are featured on Sports Collectors Daily.
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