2013 Topps Series 2: Silk Collection Cards
Carlos Ruiz - Silk Collection #SC-125 |
The 2013 Topps Series 2 cards have been on the streets for a few weeks now, and I thought it would be fun to look at one of the more interesting parallels collectors are finding in packs: Silk Collection Cards.
The flagship set has been pretty strong this year - the overall design, with cool parallel card variations and plentiful relic/auto cards. I have not bought any Series 2 yet, but have seen a lot popping up on Ebay since their release. And, if you're looking, you've probably seen a few of the Phillies, Silk Collection Cards, too.
Only found in Hobby Boxes, the cards are limited to a production run of 50. The design is similar to what we have seen in the past: regular size silk card, framed by white and purple. The card images match the player's base card (unless there are some variations I have not seen). On ebay they seem to be selling for a fair price ranging between $10-15. A must have if f you are a collector of one of the players on the checklist.
Jonathan Papelbon - Silk Collection # SC-117 |
Series 2 Phillies Silk Collection Checklist:
SC - 117 Jonathan Papelbon
SC - 123 Roy Halladay
SC - 125 Carlos Ruiz
SC - 135 Ben Revere
SC - 177 Cole Hamels
My Auction Buy
Mitch Williams cleats, circa 1991 |
I won!
Ok, maybe that was not my exact reaction to placing the final bid on this lot Thursday night, but I was satisfied...
Up for sale in the June internet/phone auction held by Hunt Auctions, this stellar pair of Mitch Williams cleats was too tempting to pass up. As I mentioned earlier in the week, the sale was pretty deep this month. And, while not that valuable, these shoes are another example of the depth of material offered.
I am by no means a "Mitch Williams shoe expert", but using some clues I can date this pair to the 1991 season:
- Color - Burgundy. Which would match the old uniforms the Phillies wore in his first season.
- Brand - Mitre. Mitch wore several brands during his three-years in Philly, including Mitre, Pony and most famously, Reebok in 1993.
- Photographic Evidence - Pictures (see below) from that season show him wearing Mitre...maybe even these shoes!
Mitch Williams, circa 1991 |
Truth be told, the cleats are probably not worth more than I bid, but I have been doing a funny thing recently - measuring cost based on the statement, "it's less than a tank of gas." Any reputable financial planner will tell you this theory is not one to live by. Needless to say, I did employ my manic logic when placing bids on the cleats...the urge to wear them was too great to resist.
Good News: I WON! Bad News: I'm house-bounded this weekend...
Hunt Auctions: June 2013 Internet/Phone Auction Preview
This month's catalogue is full of the same type of things we've come to expect: jerseys, team-signed baseballs and Dick Perez posters. And, while I have heard some discussion that the sale offers too much of the same (i.e. - lots with items we seen in the past), I think it may be one of the better lineups they've had over the past few months.
Here is a sampling of the Phillies memorabilia up on the block tonight:
Lot #217 - Collection of Phillies Cards
Comments:
Though they are likely displaying the best cards in this lot (which aren't really that great), the sheer volume makes this one very attractive. The listing states there are almost 3,000 cards in the lot, with "approximately 25% dating pre-1980". Whether you're adding to your personal collection, or breaking up the lot for resale, this lot is definitely worth watching...
Lot# 217 of the June Auction |
Link to the auction listing.
Lot #577 - Original Artwork from The Sporting News (featuring Robin Roberts)
Comments:
Wow! This 14"x19.5" drawing which was featured in an 1952 issue of The Sporting News is great! Drawn and signed by famed cartoonist Ken Hubenthal, this lot caught my eye in my first pass through the catalogue.
The price (currently at $193) is justified, but, unfortunately, out of my price range. Nonetheless, this is a great piece for either a Robin Roberts collector, or a baseball art lover...
Lot# 577 of the June Auction |
Link to the auction listing.
Lot # 805 - Selection of Professional Model Bats
Comments:
I only have a few game used bats in my personal collection, but this lot is full of gamers from some of my all-time favorite Phillies: Lenny Dykstra, Mike Lieberthal and John Kruk.
Like the card lot discussed above, this one provides opportunities for collectors and dealers alike. Comprised of seven pro-model bats (six of which are signed), it offers plenty of value. In addition to Dykstra (2), Lieberthal and Kruk, there are also bats from Scott Rolen, Ruben Amaro, Jr. and Ricky Ledee.
Lot# 805 of the June Auction |
July "Phanatic of the Month" Sneak Peek
July "Phanatic of the Month" Bobble |
While I don't have one in my hands yet, I do have a picture of the July "Phanatic of the Month" bobble head (courtesy of @DrBobblesWorld on Twitter)...
In time for Independence Day, the new design has the Phanatic doing his best "Uncle Sam" - complete with top hat and colonial suit. And with a nod to the old war posters featuring the famous patriot, the Phanatic has his index finger (does he actually have an index finger?) pointed forward as if to say, "I Want You."
Thoughts are that the new bobble should be available July 1st. But, I'll post an update if they are out earlier...
My Ebay Watchlist: "Phantom" Memorabilia Edition
1964 World Series Phantom Ticket Lot
Comments:
We've probably all seen a few phantom tickets from the 1964 World Series, you might even have one in your collection. This lot contains four sets of four intact ticket strips (one from each Philadelphia home game), with an interesting bonus: a rain check for Game 7. The seller's description states it's the first time they have seen the rain check - make that two of us!
1964 World Series Rain Check |
Link to the auction.
1976 World Series Press Pin
Comments:
1976 was the "break-through" season for the Schmidt/Carlton Phillies of the 1970s and 80s. After adding pieces to build around the young and talented nucleus, the team finally made it to the playoffs in '76 after winning the NL East.
The pin has a pretty simple design, featuring the cherry-red script logo and "World Series" pennant wrapped around a baseball bat. Missing the case isn't a deal breaker for me. The pin would would look pretty nice in a display with other Phillies World Series pins...
1976 Phillies Phantom World Series Pin |
BIN: $29.95
Link to the auction.
2011 Post Season Phantom Ticket Lot
Comments:
If you are a younger fan, the first two lots may not have left you bitter. Don't feel bad, here is your chance...
2011 was a great season for the Phillies...up until the playoffs. No doubt, all of these tickets should have been used that Fall, unfortunately, the Phils fell to the Cardinals before they could get out of the first round. As sour as this set of tickets may make you, I think the $20 price tag is pretty decent...
Lot of Phillies, 2011 Post Season Tickets |
BIN: $20
Link to the auction.
Phillies TTM: Week of 6/10/13
Larry Bowa -
Larry Bowa signed photo |
This picture was from the same stash of Dick Perez pen and ink drawings that produced the Simmons and Christenson successes two weeks ago. It was originally used in the Phillies 1976 Yearbook. As someone noted after my last Bowa success: If you don't have a Larry Bowa autograph in your collection, you're not trying...
Ed Roebuck -
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Ed Roebuck signed photo |
Despite his near 100% success rate on SCN, I have not had much success with Roebuck via TTM. In the past I have lost two different items. And, after nearly two months out, I had pretty much written this one off, too. Really happy to get it back...slowly closing in on this set.
My Favorite Cards: Stan Lopata
Growing up my dad helped me build a nice collection of vintage Phillies cards - piecing together his own lost collection of Curt Simmons, Richie Ashburn and Gran Hamner gems. Stan Lopata was always held in high regard, and as a result I have several of his cards from the 1950s, too. These cards were a great way to relate to the stories I heard from Dad about guys from this era. Even though I never saw any of them play, there was a definite interest in their careers.
In light of his passing, I thought I would share a few of the cards that made me a collector of both Lopata and the Whiz Kids...
1956 Topps, #183
Comments: The 1956 Topps set is beautiful, and Lopata's card is no exception. If I had to describe the posed picture, I would say: "that's what a ballplayer looks like".
1957 Topps, #119
Comments: This card is notable because it features Lopata wearing his glasses. He was recognized as the first catcher to wear spectacles in a game.
Stan Lopata, 1957 Topps #119 |
Phillies TTM: Look Who's Signing
Mariano Duncan and Greg Gross -
A return to the bush-leagues has brought both of these former TTM regulars back into play. While as a coach for the Dodgers, Duncan was a TTM slam-dunk...then, Joe Torre retired and with no viable home address on file, the successes dried up.
Then we have Greg Gross. Refusing to sign via his home address, he was a tough signer after the Phillies fired him last year. Now coaches in the minor leagues, both are back to signing again...
Duncan:
c/o Daytona Cubs
110 E. Orange Ave.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Gross:
c/o Reno Aces
Aces Ballpark
250 Evans Avenue
Reno, NV 89501
Darin Ruf -
Ruf was a popular target during Spring Training, but with only one reported success from Clearwater on SCN I didn't think I'd be getting a return anytime this season. Then he was sent to Lehigh Valley and our fortunes changed...
So far this season there have been nine reported successes for Ruf - three in the past week. Definitely worth a try (if you haven't already)...
c/o Lehigh Valley IronPigs
Coca-Cola Park
1050 IronPigs Way
Allentown, PA 18109
Ron Gant -
I can easily forget the years when Gant roamed left field at Veterans Stadium. In his defense, the entire team was completely boring and altogether forgettable.
Historically Gant has done very little TTM, and his overall success rate is currently 57%. But, since his new gig as co-host of "Good Day Atlanta", the successes have been coming in at a record clip. Given his record, there is no guarantee he will keep signing. If you are in need of a Ron Gant autograph, I recommend trying this address soon:
c/o Good Day Atlanta
Fox 5 Atlanta
1551 Briarcliff Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
Phillies Father's Day Hat SGAs
Richie Ashburn "Jeff" Hat #2 (1985)
Richie Ashburn "Jeff" Hat - 1985 SGA |
If you ever doubted Richie Ashburn's popularity, all you need to know is that his trademark "Jeff" hat was used as a Father's Day promotion twice - 1981 and 1985. The 1985 version (shown here) is maroon, while the 1981 version used the "cherry red" color of the day. I wonder if they ever considered "Ashburn Pipe Day"...
1950s Logo (2012)
Phillies 2012 Father's Day SGA hat |
A common problem with these Father's Day giveaways is that there are very few places you will actually feel comfortable wearing one of them. I went to this game last year, and have found that this hat is good for things like mowing the grass or going to the shore. Try it next time!
Bucket Hat (1977)
Phillies 1977 Father's Day Hat SGA |
Through the years there have been many Phillies bucket hat giveaways - but, this one from 1977 may be the first. Cherry red with a bold white stripe and the classic script team logo - any father would be proud to wear it. In all seriousness though, it probably wasn't too bad for its day...
My Collecting Story: 1983 Topps Mike Schmidt Blank Back
I was digging through cards last weekend and stumbled onto an unusual one from my past, a blank-back version of Mike Schmidt's 1983 Topps card...
While I wasn't spoiled growing up, my parents did a good job of encouraging my desire to collect baseball cards. It was not uncommon for my dad to surprise me with a pack of cards or make an impromptu trip to the card shop. My main collecting focus was that particular year's Topps set and Mike Schmidt cards.
I got the blank-back card sometime in the late-80s at the Home Plate card shop, where we were regular customers. At the time I figured we were buying a standard issue card from the set. And, it wasn't until we got in the car that I noticed the blank-back. Being the honest people we are, my dad and I went back into the shop to let the owner know about the error. He told us the card was a production mistake, that he had accidently put out for sale - thinking it was a standard card. Rich (the dealer) was pretty honest, too - and said "a sale is a sale." The card has been in my collection since...
The blank-back cards are a rare variation that are known to have been an issue with Topps cards from the 1970s and early 1980s. At the time, Topps would willingly replace the "error" cards mailed to them with standard printed cards. Despite their irregular nature, the blank-backs do not generally carry a premium price tag. I recently saw another 1983 Topps Mike Schmidt sell on ebay for $8.
Pete Rose Is Coming! Pete Rose Is Coming!
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Pete Rose |
Although it is not unusual to see former Phillie Pete Rose signing autographs in the area, the circumstances around his appearances this weekend make it a story.
Originally, Rose was scheduled to be a special guest at Coca-Cola Park, as part of the IronPigs Father's Day promotion. As soon as the appearance was announced, Major League Baseball stepped in to put the kibosh on it. Because of his current "in eligible" status, the all-time hit leader cannot appear at any Major League, or Major League affiliate games.
Without getting into the whole ban/no ban discussion, I will say these rules seem to be applied liberally by the Commissioner's office. Not sure why it is OK for him to help induct Mike Schmidt into the Reading Hall of Fame, or appear at the All-Star Game (in 1999), and not to throw out he first pitch on Sunday...but, that is why I'm not Commissioner.
Anyway, with his weekend freed up, Pete lined up two area signings:
County Line Fence, Warrington, PA from 1-4
This is a free signing, which we have seen Rose doing more often recently. I find it interesting, considering he can still get a line of people to pay top-dollar for his signature. If you are going, take note that County Line has said Pete will on sign sponsor photos.
Sports Vault, King of Prussia Mall from 5-7
This IS NOT a free signing (you will be asked to pay the aforementioned top-dollar). Of note here is the $59 price tag for a "photo opportunity". I have heard of a "no photo" policy, but can't remember a "pay-for-photo" policy.
Maje McDonnell's Flannel Jersey Re-appears
Maje McDonnell 1952 Home Jersey Sold: March 2012 |
Maje McDonnell 1952 Home Jersey Sold May 2013 |
Phillies TTM: Week of 6/3/13
June started off pretty well, with three new successes...
Mel Clark
Mel Clark - 1950s-era Phillies photo
I have started working on the 1950s-era Phillies photo again. After starting with the remaining 1950 Whiz Kids, I put it aside for awhile. I got re-inspired after seeing a number of responses from players in this era on SCN and decided to continue on. Clark played Outfield for the Phillies from 1951-1955, splitting his time between right and left field.
Successful address: 270 Home Run Dr. West Columbia, WV 25287
Larry Christenson
Larry Christenson
signed photo
Pulled from the Dick Perez archive, this drawing was used in the Phillies 1976 Yearbook. Perez has a number of these drawings up on his site. I borrowed this one and a few others to send out for signing purposes.
Successful address: 1465 Le Boutiller Rd. Malvern, PA 19355
Curt Simmons
Curt Simmons
signed photo
I know...I don't need anymore Curt Simmons signatures. I just couldn't resist the opportunity to have him sign this picture...
Another drawing from Dick Perez's site, I have not been able to identify which publication (if any) it was used in. Let me know if you have seen it before...
Successful address: 200 Park Road Ambler, PA 19002
June "Phanatic of the Month" Bobble Head
June, Father's Day-themed, Phanatic of the Month
(photo via @drbobblesworld - Twitter)
Last weekend the Phillies released the June "Phanatic of the Month" bobble head. The third of twelve limited edition offerings, this month's figurine takes on a Father's Day theme with the Phanatic decked out in interesting golf attire.
As with the two previous figurines, the June bobble stands atop a gold Phanatic-head base. And at this point, we are probably safe to assume this will continue throughout the entire line. Also continued is the limited production run of 150 figurines. There were a few remaining at the Majestic Store when I stopped in last weekend, but I understand they are now sold out. Note: If you missed them the first time, the going rate on ebay for one is $100.
Check out my posts on the previous Phanatic of the Month bobbleheads:
Up next is July...
July 2013,
Phanatic of the Month bobble
One Million Bobble Heads and Counting...
Carlos Ruiz Bobble Head |
Last night the Phillies handed out their one-millionth bobble head. And, to ceremoniously mark the occasion, one lucky fan was presented a gold-painted, signed figurine of Carlos Ruiz (by the man himself). In lieu of balloons and confetti, I thought I would commemorate the occasion by looking back at three of the most creative bobble heads given out by the Phillies.
Randy Wolf - 2004
Randy Wolf bobble head |
Complete with 'wolf-arm', the Randy Wolf bobble is more like what we might see from a minor-league affiliate - but that's what makes it so great. This release perfectly represents what the Phillies marketing team was doing at the time: both creative and original (i.e. - there is no Wolf version #2).
Harry Kalas/Richie Ashburn - 2002
Kalas/Ashburn Dual Bobble Head |
I'm sure there were dual-bobble heads produced somewhere before the Harry/Richie in 2002, but it was a new phenomenon for me. For the most part, bobble head giveaways had been a distinction held for players, and up to that point, one player at a time. This bobble broke the mold, opening the door for several other duos, including current radio broadcast partners Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen.
Carlos Ruiz (Version #1) - 2010
Carlos Ruiz Bobble Head (version 1) |
Chooch's first turn as SGA was a nod back to the aforementioned "marketing golden age", mimicking the Mike Lieberthal "removable mask"figure. I liked the fresh take on an old idea, and it was one of the first I can remember to have an action pose (instead of a standard hitting or pitching one).
2013 Topps Archives Disappointments
Fan Favorites - Darren Daulton
2013 Topps Archives Darren Daulton |
As excited as I was to see Juan Samuel and Larry Bowa as part of the Fan Favorites this year, I was equally disappointed to see Darren Daulton (again). It's nothing personal against Dutch, I just would like to have seen a "new" popular player from the past featured as part of the 50-card short print. It is Daulton's third inclusion as a "Fan Favorite", following 2003 and 2004.
Mike Schmidt x10?
2013 Topps Archives Mike Schmidt base |
If you think Topps loves Darren Daulton, it doesn't come close to the affection they are showing Schmidtty. There are 10 Schmidt cards sprinkled throughout the set. As a collector of his cards, it is a great opportunity to grow my collection, but I would gladly give up one or two of these cards to have a different Phillie represented in the set. Also, it was disappointing to see the crappy, retread, mid-80s photo on his base card (in the 1972 Topps design). Why does Topps keep using this picture?
Heavy Metal Autograph Cards
I just don't understand why these cards are included. No idea.
Phillies TTM: Week of 5/27/13
1994 Photo Cards - Jim Fregosi and Denis Menke
Jim Fregosi and Denis Menke signed photo cards |
I keep plugging away at this set, and with these two additions I am now up to 10 cards in the set signed. With the '93 team being good TTM signers, it should be easy to add a few more before the summer is out...
Adam Morgan
Adam Morgan signed photo |
When I sent this photo, Morgan was still on his season-opening hot streak. Actually, come to think of it, the timing of my letter has evenly split his season into two distinct parts: great and not-so-great. Either way, Morgan is a legit talent and a class guy (in my book). With the picture he included a handwritten note thanking me for the support.
Clay Dalrymple
Clay Dalrymple autographed picture |
For $5, Dalrymple will sign whatever you send him. The 1964 Phillies catcher is slam-dunk via TTM - and gives you a solid signature for your money. I've really enjoyed closing the loop on this project...
My Collecting Story: Opening Day 1992
My feelings on Curt Schilling have changed almost by the year:
- 1993: love
- 1999: respect
- 2000: hate
- 2002-2007: loathing
- 2012: toleration
Clearly I have some issues. But regardless of how I have felt about him, throughout his career, Schilling has mattered. His election to the Phillies Wall of Fame earlier this week conjured up an almost forgotten memory from a very memorable day at Veterans Stadium - Opening Day 1992.
New Uniforms
Phillies, Uniforms Through the Years poster (1992)
Beyond the normal excitement around Opening Day, the team was revealing their new uniforms for the first time anywhere. If you remember, they had gone to great lengths to keep the new design secret - continuing to don their old duds through Spring Training and right up until the team introductions that sunny afternoon. The "Uniforms Through the Years" poster was handed out to mark the event.
Dykstra's Injury
In his first at-bat of the season, Lenny Dykstra broke his wrist after getting hit by a Greg Maddux pitch. After missing a lot of the 1991 season due to injury, I had hoped having a healthy Dude would give the Phis the edge they needed in 1992 (guess we know how that turned out).
Pre-Game Autographs
Curt Schilling autographed ball
So, this was the part I had almost forgotten...
A few days earlier the Phillies had traded for Curt Schilling, and I have to admit, I was probably upset that they traded "prospect" Jason Grimsley for him. As was customary for me at games, I was positioned along the right field fence asking players for autographs when Schilling obliged. While he was signing, I asked how he liked being a Phillie, to which he responded in the honest manner that has elicited the above emotions, "I don't know yet. We'll see..." Classic Schill.
How Schilling handles the induction and his return to Philly this August may change my feelings again. The 13-year old fan in me hopes that he'll win me back, for good...
2013+: TBD
Phillies' 2013 Alumni Weekend Set
- Brad Lidge retiring "as a Phillie" on Thursday, August 1st.
- Curt Schilling prints to be handed out the night of his WOF induction - Friday, August 2nd.
- Alumni Night - promised to return 50+ alums - Saturday, August 3rd.
- 1993 NL Championship team reunion, with 1993 "NL Championship" pennants being given out on Sunday, August 4th.
- Garry Maddox BBQ Cook-off on Saturday, August 3rd.
1993 Pennant SGA (8/3/13) |