For many collectors, the 1968 Topps set means one thing: Nolan Ryan’s rookie card. One of the most iconic cards in the hobby, the Ryan Express headlines the set, followed closely by the first year card of fellow Hall of Famer, Johnny Bench. Highlighted by other ‘60s superstars like Mickey Mantle, Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, and the second year cards of Tom Seaver and Rod Carew, this set is loaded with star power.
BurlsSports.com’s Set Break of the Week is a 1968 Topps set that is largely in VGEX to EX condition. The set includes 598 cards. The Ryan rookie in this break grades out at an SGC 45 (value approximately $200), while the Mickey Mantle rates an SGC 60 (value approx. $125).
There are over three dozen Hall of Famers in the 1968 set–not including the All-Star, Leader or other special cards.
If you haven’t participated in a group break, each card in the break 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 through a computerized draw. Some will get the key cards for a fraction of their value, while others take home other stars, minor stars or vintage commons for set building or trade bait. In order to ensure transparency, the randomization is broadcast live online for all participants to view.
The price for this break is set at $4 per slot. To purchase slots in the break or to find out more, you can access the break page here.
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.