1952 Topps Howie Pollet Card

Baseball cards have long been cherished by collectors for their historical and sentimental value. The 1952 Topps Howie Pollet card, numbered 63 in the iconic set, has captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts for years. This article will explore the life and career of Howie Pollet, his Major League Baseball (MLB) statistics, and the estimated value of his 1952 Topps card.

Who was Howie Pollet?

Howard Joseph Pollet, better known as Howie Pollet, was an American left-handed pitcher who played in the MLB for three different teams: the St. Louis Cardinals, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Chicago Cubs. Born on June 26, 1921, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Pollet made his MLB debut on April 24, 1941, at the young age of 19. Known for his accurate control and smooth pitching style, Pollet was highly regarded for his skills on the mound.

Pollet's MLB Career

Howie Pollet enjoyed a successful 14-year career in the MLB, with his most notable accomplishments coming during his time with the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a key player for the Cardinals during the 1940s, helping the team to win two World Series Championships in 1942 and 1946. In 1946, Pollet was also named an All-Star for his outstanding performance throughout the season.

Here's a summary of Pollet's MLB statistics:

- Win-Loss Record: 131-116

- Earned Run Average (ERA): 3.51

- Strikeouts: 934

- Walks: 616

- Innings Pitched: 2,212.2

- Complete Games: 140

- Shutouts: 25

- All-Star Selections: 1 (1946)

Howie Pollet's Personal Life

Away from the baseball field, Howie Pollet led a relatively private life. He married his wife, Rosemary, and together they had two children. Pollet was known for being deeply religious and was actively involved in his church. After his retirement from baseball in 1956, Pollet went on to have a successful career as a pitching coach for various MLB teams, including the Houston Astros, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Atlanta Braves.

Following his coaching career, Pollet retired to his hometown of New Orleans, where he passed away on August 8, 1974, at the age of 53. He was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1972, solidifying his legacy as one of the state's greatest athletes.

The 1952 Topps Howie Pollet Card (#63)

The 1952 Topps set is regarded as one of the most significant and valuable baseball card sets ever produced. It was the first major release by the Topps Company, and it set the standard for baseball card design for years to come. The set features 407 cards, with each card measuring 2-5/8" by 3-3/4". The cards showcase a large color player portrait, along with the player's name, position, team, and a facsimile autograph.

The Howie Pollet card (#63) is part of the first series of the 1952 Topps set, which includes cards numbered 1 through 80. Pollet's card displays a vibrant portrait of the left-handed pitcher in his Pittsburgh Pirates uniform. With its bold design and classic look, the card is a favorite among collectors and fans of the era.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Howie Pollet Card

The value of the 1952 Topps Howie Pollet card can vary significantly depending on its condition, rarity, and the demand from collectors. In general, the estimated value of a Howie Pollet card in excellent or better condition can range from $50 to $300. Cards that have been professionally graded and authenticated by reputable grading companies, such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty), can command higher values.

Here are some estimated values for the 1952 Topps Howie Pollet card in various conditions:

- Poor to Fair condition: $10 - $30

- Good to Very Good condition: $30 - $75

- Excellent condition: $75 - $150

- Near Mint condition: $150 - $300

- Graded cards (PSA or SGC): $200 - $1,000, depending on the grade

It's important to note that these values are just estimates, and the actual value of a particular card can vary based on factors such as market demand and recent sales of similar cards. Additionally, cards with unique features, such as printing errors or autographs, can sometimes fetch a premium.

The 1952 Topps Howie Pollet card (#63) is a piece of baseball history that captures the essence of a talented pitcher who contributed significantly to the sport during his time in the MLB. Collectors and fans alike treasure this card for its connection to a bygone era of baseball and the man who left a lasting legacy on the field. With its vibrant design, classic appeal, and potential value, the 1952 Topps Howie Pollet card remains a sought-after item for enthusiasts of the game and its history.