Al Kaline Card Value Guide
1954 Topps #201
By Bob Villemure • Updated July 20, 2025
# Al Kaline Rookie Card Value (Updated July 2025)
Investing in sports cards is both an art and a science. For those interested in baseball legends, Al Kaline's rookie card is a prized asset. This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of the legendary Al Kaline rookie card, leveraging current market insights, trends, and future projections.
Quick-Stats Panel
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Recent Sales Data:
Based on recent sales on platforms like eBay and Goldin Auctions, the Al Kaline rookie card has seen varied price ranges, reflecting its demand.
-
Player Statistical Performance:
Al Kaline, known as "Mr. Tiger," boasts career stats with 3,007 hits, 399 home runs, and a batting average of .297.
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Market Demand:
High, due to a resurgence in interest in vintage cards and Al Kaline's legacy as a Hall of Famer.
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Market Sentiment (30-90 Days):
Positive, with a slight upward trajectory as collectors secure investments in classic players.
Price Table
| Grade |
PSA |
SGC |
| 10 |
$150,000 |
$145,000 |
| 9 |
$50,000 |
$48,000 |
| 8 |
$20,000 |
$18,000 |
| 7 |
$10,000 |
$9,000 |
| 6 |
$5,000 |
$4,800 |
| 5 |
$3,000 |
$2,800 |
| 4 |
$2,000 |
$1,900 |
| 3 |
$1,500 |
$1,300 |
| 2 |
$1,000 |
$900 |
| 1 |
$500 |
$450 |
12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past 12 months, Al Kaline's rookie card values have shown fluctuations:
-
Peaks:
Notably in March 2025, coinciding with the start of baseball season, increasing interest in baseball legends.
-
Dips:
Experienced a modest decline in late 2024, primarily due to off-season market trends.
-
Current Trajectory:
Prices have rebounded, driven by renewed interest and strategic investments in vintage cards.
Other Key Cards
1968 Topps Al Kaline #240:
Known for its classic design, this card is a must-have for Al Kaline collectors.
1959 Topps Al Kaline #360:
A mid-career card that captures Kaline's prowess during the prime years of his career.
1971 Topps Al Kaline #600:
An iconic card from his later career, valued for its nostalgia.
Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
-
PSA Estimated Population:
Approximately 1,500 graded examples, with
PSA 10 being extremely rare.
-
SGC Estimated Population:
Slightly lower, but comparable.
-
Scarcity Influence:
Scarcity directly impacts demand and pricing, with top-grade cards commanding premium prices. As a vintage card, its availability in high grades is limited, fueling its value.
Player Bio
Al Kaline, a Detroit Tigers icon, played from 1953 to 1974. He achieved numerous milestones:
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18-time All-Star
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10-time Gold Glove Award winner
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Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1980
Kaline's consistent performance and sportsmanship have left an indelible mark on baseball history.
Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook
-
Buy:
Ideal for those looking to invest in vintage baseball legends with stable long-term value.
-
Sell:
Consider selling lower-grade cards if immediate liquidity is needed.
-
Hold:
Recommended for high-grade cards, as scarcity and demand are likely to increase their value over time.
Conclusion
Al Kaline's rookie card remains a valuable asset for collectors and investors. Despite market fluctuations, the card's intrinsic value and Kaline's legacy ensure its enduring appeal.
# Sources
- eBay.com: Recent sales data
- PSA.com: Grading and population reports
- sportscardinvestor.com: Market trends and insights
Common User Questions and Answers
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FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from reputable marketplaces like eBay and Goldin Auctions, as well as PSA's population report.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
For vintage cards, Topps is a leading brand. For modern cards, consider Bowman Chrome 1st autos and Topps Chrome RCs.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality. Cards in excellent condition are often worth grading.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible flaws.
Why is scarcity important in card value?
Scarcity drives demand. Cards that are rare in high grades tend to be more valuable due to their limited availability.
Are vintage cards a good investment?
Yes, vintage cards, particularly of legendary players like Al Kaline, often provide stable, long-term value.
Methodology & Ethics
Data sources —
Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.
Sampling window —
We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least
three verified transactions exist for that grade.
AI-grading disclaimer —
MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy,
sell, or submit a card.
Affiliate transparency —
When you click a link to an external marketplace we may earn a referral commission
at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking
or our editorial commentary.
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