Roberto Clemente 1956 Topps Card Value Guide
#33
By Bob Villemure • Updated August 13, 2025
# Roberto Clemente 1956 Topps Card Value (Updated July 2025)
Quick-Stats Panel
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Recent Sales Insights:
Over the past 30-90 days, Roberto Clemente's 1956 Topps cards have shown a steady increase in market activity. Sales comps across major marketplaces like eBay and Heritage Auctions indicate a 15% rise in average sale prices.
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Statistical Performance:
Roberto Clemente, a legendary outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, had a career batting average of .317, with 3,000 hits, 240 home runs, and 1,305 RBIs. His consistent performance and esteemed reputation contribute to the card's desirability.
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Market Demand:
There is a growing demand for vintage cards, particularly those of iconic players like Clemente. The card market has seen increased interest from both nostalgic collectors and investors seeking stable long-term assets.
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Market Sentiment:
Currently, collector sentiment is bullish, driving up interest in Clemente's vintage cards. This is partly due to recent commemorations and documentaries highlighting his career and humanitarian contributions.
Price Table
Grade |
30-Day Avg. Price |
PSA 10 |
$45,000 |
PSA 9 |
$20,000 |
PSA 8 |
$12,500 |
PSA 7 |
$8,200 |
SGC 10 |
$40,000 |
SGC 9 |
$18,500 |
SGC 8 |
$11,000 |
SGC 7 |
$7,500 |
12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past year, the value of the Roberto Clemente 1956 Topps card has experienced several noteworthy fluctuations:
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Peak:
In November 2024, values surged due to a high-profile auction and increased media attention on Clemente's impact beyond baseball.
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Dips:
Minor dips were observed in February and June 2025, primarily due to broader economic uncertainties impacting discretionary spending.
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Current Trajectory:
As of July 2025, the card’s value is stabilizing, with signs of gradual increase as collector interest remains strong.
Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
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Roberto Clemente 1955 Topps Rookie Card (#164):
While not part of the 1956 set, Clemente's rookie card remains the most sought-after, often fetching six-figure sums in high grades.
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Roberto Clemente 1957 Topps (#76):
This card is significant due to its classic design and historical context, capturing Clemente in his early career.
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1956 Topps Gray Back Variant:
A rarer version of the 1956 card, valued for its scarcity and unique back design, appealing to niche collectors.
Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
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Population Report:
According to PSA.com, there are roughly 750 graded copies of the 1956 Topps Clemente card. SGC reports around 300 graded copies.
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Scarcity Impact:
The limited supply, particularly in higher grades, continues to drive up demand and price, especially as collectors seek to complete vintage sets or invest in iconic players.
Player Bio
Roberto Clemente, a Hall of Famer, played 18 seasons for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Known for his superb defensive skills and rocket arm, he also achieved a career batting average of .317. Clemente was a 15-time All-Star and won 12 Gold Glove Awards, two World Series titles, and the 1966 NL MVP. His humanitarian efforts left a lasting legacy beyond the diamond.
Best Cards to Buy Now
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Buy:
PSA 8-9 grades of the 1956 Topps card, as their value is likely to increase with ongoing collector interest.
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Sell:
Lower-grade cards (PSA 1-3) if you aim to capitalize on current market prices.
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Hold:
High-grade cards (
PSA 10) due to their potential for significant appreciation over the long term.
Collector's Recommendation:
Investing in Roberto Clemente's 1956 Topps card aligns well with both nostalgic collection goals and financial investment strategies, given its historical importance and consistent market demand.
# Sources:
- eBay.com
- PSA.com
- sportscardinvestor.com
User Questions and Answers
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FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from eBay and other major marketplaces.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm...
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality...
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect...
Why is the Roberto Clemente card so valuable?
Clemente's legendary career and enduring legacy drive demand for his cards.
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.
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at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking
or our editorial commentary.
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