Willie Mays Rookie Card Value Guide
1951 Bowman #305
Quick-Stats Panel
-Recent Sales Comps:
Over the past 30-90 days, sales data from top marketplaces such as eBay and Heritage Auctions show a robust interest in Willie Mays rookie cards, with prices remaining stable despite fluctuations in the general sports card market. -Player Statistical Performance:
Willie Mays' legendary career includes 3,283 hits, 660 home runs, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and a batting average of .302. -Market Demand:
The demand for Mays' cards remains strong, supported by the player's enduring legacy, recent baseball documentaries, and Hall of Fame induction anniversaries. -Market Sentiment:
Collector sentiment is generally positive, with a strong focus on high-grade cards. Recent auctions have seen competitive bidding, indicating sustained interest.Price Table
Below is a mobile-friendly price table showing the 30-day average sale prices for Willie Mays' rookie card across various PSA and SGC grades:| Grade | PSA | SGC |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $500,000 | $480,000 |
| 9 | $150,000 | $140,000 |
| 8 | $75,000 | $70,000 |
| 7 | $45,000 | $42,000 |
| 1 | $5,000 | $4,800 |
12-Month Trend Summary
In the past year, the value of a Willie Mays rookie card has experienced the following trends: -Peak:
March 2025 saw a peak due to the 70th anniversary of Mays' MLB debut, sparking renewed interest. -Dip:
A slight dip occurred in May 2025 as broader market corrections impacted card prices. -Current Trajectory:
Currently, prices are on an upward trend, bolstered by recent high-profile auctions and positive collector sentiment.Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
1951 Bowman Willie Mays Rookie Card:
The most iconic card for collectors, known for its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.1952 Topps Willie Mays Card:
While not his rookie card, this card is highly sought after and represents Mays' early career.1966 Topps Willie Mays Card:
A later career card that is popular among collectors, offering a more affordable option.Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
-PSA Population:
Approximately 1,500 graded copies, with only a handful in PSA 10 condition. -SGC Population:
Similar numbers to PSA, with scarcity in high grades contributing to the card's high value. Scarcity significantly influences pricing, as collectors are willing to pay premiums for high-grade cards.Player Bio
Willie Mays is often celebrated as one of baseball's greatest all-around players. His career includes: -Hits:
3,283 -Home Runs:
660 -Gold Gloves:
12 -Batting Average:
.302 These achievements solidify Mays' status as a baseball legend, maintaining high demand for his rookie cards.Best Cards to Buy Now
Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook:
-Buy:
High-grade 1951 Bowman Rookie Cards for long-term value. -Sell:
Lower-grade cards if market conditions are favorable. -Hold:
Mid-grade cards as prices are expected to continue appreciating.Collector's Recommendation:
Investing in high-grade Willie Mays rookie cards is recommended due to their scarcity and Mays' enduring legacy. The market remains strong, with persistent fan interest ensuring demand.Common User Questions
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1951 Bowman - Willie Mays #305 (RC)--Newly Graded-Crease free-No lines-PSA 2
$5,283.00 · 0 bids · 6 days 7 hours 24 minutes -
1996 Topps Baseball Willie Mays N.Y. Giants #305 From 1951 Bowman "Reprint" RC
$1.99 · 0 bids · 23 minutes
FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from eBay, PSA, and other trusted sources.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm are recommended for long-term value.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality before deciding on grading.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect, with sharp corners, perfect centering, and no staining.
Why are high-grade Willie Mays rookie cards so valuable?
Their rarity and historical significance, coupled with Mays' legendary status, make them highly sought after by collectors.
What influences Willie Mays rookie card prices?
Factors include scarcity, collector sentiment, historical significance, and market trends.
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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