Million Dollar Question – ‘What Is 1970’s Most Overrated Rookie Baseball Card’???
During last week’s ‘Million Dollar Question’ we discussed the most underrated rookie cards to come out of sets issued in the 1970’s. If you missed that dialogue, you can re-visit it here.
As promised at the end of that conversation, I would flip the story a bit and discuss the opposite.
So, in this week’s ‘Million Dollar Question’ we will examine the most overrated rookie cards issued during the same decade.
And trust me when I tell you that this took me a few hours to compile as I went through many of the ‘Big Name’ rookie cards that were issued during the decade – and there are some great ones!!
First, let me tell you how I chose my winner.
Each of us probably has a different way to define the word overrated, but for me I look at it like this – In comparison to others in a similar group, how does one stack up against the rest. I look at individual accomplishments, team accomplishments, and how the card’s value has withstood the ever-changing hobby that we love so much.
And when I did this, I had a pretty lengthy list of players and rookie cards to evaluate.
Before I announce the card that ultimately stood out most among the group, let me say that it is amazing to me that you can scoop up legendary Hall of Fame rookie cards for so little money these days. Back when I was collecting cards as a kid, I could only dream of having rookie cards in my collection that featured the greatest stars in the game. Today, those cards can all be had for pretty low prices. And if you have any level of patience and are not in a rush to buy, you could really do well.
OK, I am now off my soap-box and ready to unveil what I believe to be the most overrated rookie card from the 1970s….
Drum-roll, please…
1970 Topps – Thurman Munson
Yes, I know he is a legend. And yes, I know that he is a beloved figure. And yes, I know that his life ended tragically. I get all of that. But, when it comes to his rookie card and how much they sell for on a regular basis, I am shocked!! In excellent and near-mint condition, Munson’s rookie cards cannot be had for less than $25-$30. To me, that is astounding – especially when you can grab rookie cards in the same condition of Eddie Murray, Andre Dawson, Dave Winfield, Dennis Eckersley, Jim Rice, Carlton Fisk, Gary Carter, and others from the same decade for much, much less. As a matter of fact, I think that with the right timing, I could grab 3-4 Hall of Fame rookie cards for less than what it would cost me to secure 1 Thurman Munson rookie card.
Would I want his rookie card in my collection, sure I guess. But certainly not before grabbing rookie cards of George Brett, Carlton Fisk, Goose Gossage, and many others.
And now I want to get your feedback!
In your opinion, What Is The Most Overrated Rookie Card From the 1970’s???
