1952 Topps Duke Snider Card

The 1952 Topps Duke Snider card, number 37, is a classic piece of baseball memorabilia that holds immense value both for its rarity and the legendary player it features. This article will explore the life of Duke Snider, his career Major League Baseball (MLB) statistics, and the current value of this iconic baseball card.

Duke Snider: The Baseball Legend

Edwin Donald "Duke" Snider, born on September 19, 1926, in Los Angeles, California, was an American professional baseball player who spent the majority of his career with the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers. Nicknamed "The Duke of Flatbush," Snider was an integral part of the Dodgers' storied history and played a significant role in their success during the 1950s. Snider's powerful swing, exceptional fielding skills, and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite and one of the most beloved players of his time.

Duke Snider's Early Life

Duke Snider's love for baseball began during his childhood in Southern California. He excelled in multiple sports throughout high school, but baseball was his true passion. After graduating from Compton High School, Snider signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1943 as an amateur free agent. He spent a few years in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut in 1947.

Major League Baseball Career for Duke Snider

Duke Snider spent the majority of his MLB career with the Dodgers, playing for the team in Brooklyn and later in Los Angeles when they relocated in 1958. He also played briefly for the New York Mets and the San Francisco Giants before retiring in 1964. Throughout his career, Snider was known for his power-hitting and spectacular outfield play. He was an eight-time All-Star and led the Dodgers to six National League pennants and two World Series championships.

Duke Snider Career MLB Baseball Stats

Duke Snider's impressive career statistics speak for themselves:

• Seasons played: 18 (1947-1964)

• Games played: 2,143

• Batting average: .295

• Hits: 2,116

• Home runs: 407

• Runs batted in (RBIs): 1,333

• Runs scored: 1,259

• Doubles: 358

• Triples: 85

• Stolen bases: 99

• On-base percentage (OBP): .380

• Slugging percentage (SLG): .540

• Total bases: 3,928

• Walks: 971

• Strikeouts: 1,237

• Fielding percentage (as an outfielder): .985

Duke Snider was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980, a testament to his outstanding career and lasting impact on the game.

1952 Topps Duke Snider Card: A Valuable Piece of Baseball History

The 1952 Topps Duke Snider card is a highly sought-after piece of baseball memorabilia that is cherished by collectors and fans alike. The card features a young Duke Snider wearing his Brooklyn Dodgers cap and a determined expression, capturing the essence of the future Hall of Famer. The card's vivid colors, design, and typography make it a stunning representation of the golden age of baseball.

Value of the 1952 Topps Duke Snider Card

The value of the 1952 Topps Duke Snider card, number 37, can vary greatly depending on the card's condition, scarcity, and desirability among collectors. Over the years, this card has continued to grow in value, with some high-grade examples selling for tens of thousands of dollars.

Several factors contribute to the value of the 1952 Topps Duke Snider card:

• Condition: The condition of a baseball card is a critical factor in determining its value. Cards that are free of creases, stains, or any other defects and have sharp corners and bright colors will command a higher price. Cards graded by professional grading services such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) often hold more value, as these companies provide a reliable assessment of the card's condition.

• Centering: The centering of the card's image can also affect its value. Cards that are perfectly centered with even borders are more desirable to collectors and generally fetch a higher price.

• Rarity: The 1952 Topps Duke Snider card is relatively scarce due to its age and the limited number of cards produced at that time. In addition, many cards from this era were not preserved in the best condition, making high-grade examples even rarer and more valuable.

• Demand: The popularity of Duke Snider as a player and the iconic status of the 1952 Topps set contribute to the demand for this card. Collectors who are building sets or focusing on cards of Hall of Famers often seek out this card, driving up its value.

While the value of the 1952 Topps Duke Snider card can vary, it is not uncommon for cards in near-mint condition to sell for over $10,000. Cards in mint condition, graded 9 or higher by professional grading services, can easily command prices of $20,000 or more. The rarity, history, and emotional connection that fans have with Duke Snider make this card a prized possession for any serious collector.

The 1952 Topps Duke Snider card is a piece of baseball history that represents a golden era of the sport and one of its most beloved players. Duke Snider's impressive career and charismatic personality endeared him to fans, making his baseball card a valuable and sought-after collectible. For those who are passionate about baseball and its history, the 1952 Topps Duke Snider card is a treasure that embodies the spirit of the game and the legacy of a true legend.