1952 Baseball Cards - 1952 Topps Bob Elliott

One of the most Iconic Baseball Card Sets in History

1952 Topps Bob Elliott Card

The 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card is a treasured piece of baseball memorabilia that captures the essence of a player who made a significant impact on the sport. Bob Elliott was a Major League Baseball (MLB) player who showcased incredible talent and skill on the field. His impressive career statistics earned him a well-deserved spot in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts and card collectors alike.

Who was Bob Elliott?

Robert Irving "Bob" Elliott (1916-1966) was an American professional baseball player who enjoyed a successful MLB career that spanned from 1939 to 1953. Born in San Francisco, California, Elliott played as a third baseman and outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Braves, and New York Giants. Throughout his career, Elliott was known for his strong hitting, consistent fielding, and excellent all-around play.

Elliott's Major League Baseball Statistics

• MLB debut: April 21, 1939, for the Pittsburgh Pirates

• Final MLB appearance: May 12, 1953, for the New York Giants

• Batting average: .289

• Hits: 2,061

• Home runs: 170

• Runs batted in (RBI): 1,195

• 2x National League (NL) All-Star selection: 1944, 1948

• 7x All-Star selection: 1941-1944, 1947-1949

• 1x National League Most Valuable Player (MVP): 1947

• 1x MLB All-Star Game MVP: 1948

• 1x MLB All-Star Game Home Run Derby winner: 1948

• 2x National League RBI leader: 1943, 1948

• Inducted into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame: 2005

Breaking Down Elliott's Career

Elliott began his professional baseball career with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1939, where he established himself as a solid hitter and fielder. In his first full season with the Pirates in 1940, Elliott recorded a .292 batting average with 60 RBI, setting the stage for a consistent and accomplished career.

Elliott's first All-Star selection came in 1941, and he would earn a spot on the All-Star team for the next three seasons as well. During this time, he also led the National League in RBI in 1943. Elliott's career was briefly interrupted during World War II when he served in the United States military. However, he quickly picked up where he left off upon his return to the field in 1946.

Bob Elliott's most notable season came in 1947 when he played for the Boston Braves. In that year, Elliott was awarded the National League MVP after achieving a .317 batting average, 22 home runs, and a league-leading 113 RBI. He helped lead the Braves to the 1948 World Series, where they would ultimately lose to the Cleveland Indians.

Elliott's final years in the MLB were spent with the New York Giants, where he continued to perform at a high level before retiring in 1953. After his playing days, Elliott stayed involved in baseball as a minor league manager and a scout for the Kansas City Athletics and Milwaukee Braves.

The 1952 Topps Bob Elliott Card (#14)

The 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card is a true gem for collectors of vintage baseball cards. The card features a portrait of Elliott in his Boston Braves cap, with the team's logo prominently displayed. The card's design incorporates the player's name, team, and position along with vibrant colors and an overall pleasing aesthetic. The reverse side of the card provides a brief player biography, career statistics, and a cartoon-style illustration that adds a touch of whimsy to the card.

The 1952 Topps set is widely considered one of the most iconic and valuable baseball card sets ever produced. This set marked a significant shift in the trading card industry, as it was the first time Topps used a larger card format and included extensive player information on the back. The 1952 Topps set laid the foundation for the modern baseball card and remains a beloved and sought-after collection among card enthusiasts.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Bob Elliott Card

The value of the 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card can vary significantly depending on the card's condition and rarity. The card's condition is graded on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being considered gem mint. The higher the grade, the more valuable the card. Additionally, cards that have been professionally graded by reputable companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) often command a premium in the market.

As of 2021, a 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card in near-mint to mint condition (graded 7 or higher) can fetch anywhere between $300 to $500. However, the value of the card can fluctuate over time due to market demand and the availability of high-grade examples. It is important to note that these estimated values are not set in stone and can change based on various factors, including the overall health of the sports memorabilia market and the economy.

For collectors who are interested in acquiring a 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card, it is essential to research the card's condition and provenance carefully. Buying from a reputable dealer or participating in well-established auctions can help ensure the authenticity and quality of the card.

The 1952 Topps Bob Elliott card is a significant piece of baseball history that pays tribute to one of the sport's most talented and accomplished players. Elliott's impressive career statistics and accolades have made him a celebrated figure in the world of baseball. Collectors who own this card are not only investing in a valuable piece of memorabilia but also honoring the legacy of a player who left an indelible mark on the game.