1952 Baseball Cards - 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha

One of the most Iconic Baseball Card Sets in History

1952 Topps Johnny Bucha Card

The 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha baseball card is a true gem from one of the most iconic and valuable baseball card sets ever produced. This card, featuring card number 19, showcases Johnny Bucha, a lesser-known yet talented Major League Baseball player. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Johnny Bucha, examine his MLB statistics, and explore the estimated value of this historic card.

Who was Johnny Bucha?

Johnny Bucha, born John Stanley Bucha on February 5, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri, was an American professional baseball player. A left-handed hitter and thrower, he began his baseball career after serving in the United States Army during World War II. His Major League Baseball journey began in 1948 as a catcher and first baseman. Known for his defensive skills, Bucha played in the MLB for six seasons, primarily with the St. Louis Browns.

Johnny Bucha's MLB Career Stats

Here is a breakdown of Johnny Bucha's MLB career statistics:

• Games Played: 346

• At-Bats: 861

• Runs: 93

• Hits: 198

• Doubles: 28

• Triples: 7

• Home Runs: 22

• Runs Batted In: 128

• Walks: 116

• Strikeouts: 145

• Batting Average: .230

• On-Base Percentage: .318

• Slugging Percentage: .357

• Total Bases: 307

• Caught Stealing: 7

• Fielding Percentage (Catcher): .988

• Fielding Percentage (First Base): .990

• Range Factor/Game as Catcher: 5.70

• Range Factor/Game as First Baseman: 9.42

Throughout his career, Bucha demonstrated solid defensive skills behind the plate and at first base. While his offensive numbers may not have been extraordinary, he was a reliable player who contributed to his team's efforts.

The 1952 Topps Baseball Card Set

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets ever produced, featuring some of the game's most celebrated players, including Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Jackie Robinson. The set marked a turning point for the baseball card industry, as Topps revolutionized card design with a larger format, vibrant colors, and detailed statistics on the reverse side. These innovations laid the groundwork for the modern baseball card, setting the standard for future releases.

The 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha Card

Card number 19 in the 1952 Topps set features Johnny Bucha in his St. Louis Browns uniform. The card's design is a testament to the innovations that Topps introduced during that era. The front of the card showcases a stunning colorized image of Bucha, complete with a bright yellow background that contrasts beautifully with his brown and white uniform. The player's name, team name, and position are displayed prominently at the bottom.

On the reverse side of the card, you will find a detailed summary of Bucha's career statistics, personal information, and a short biography. The card's back also includes a unique trivia question related to baseball history, adding an interactive element for collectors.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha card can vary significantly based on factors such as condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. Cards in pristine condition, graded by reputable card grading services such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) or Sportscard Guaranty (SGC), can command a higher value in the market. Here is an estimation of the 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha card's value based on its condition:

• PSA/SGC 10 (Gem Mint): $4,000 - $5,000

• PSA/SGC 9 (Mint): $1,500 - $2,000

• PSA/SGC 8 (Near Mint-Mint): $400 - $600

• PSA/SGC 7 (Near Mint): $150 - $250

• PSA/SGC 6 (Excellent-Mint): $80 - $120

• PSA/SGC 5 (Excellent): $50 - $75

• PSA/SGC 4 (Very Good-Excellent): $35 - $50

• PSA/SGC 3 (Very Good): $25 - $35

• PSA/SGC 2 (Good): $15 - $25

• PSA/SGC 1 (Poor): $10 - $15

Please note that these values are only estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions, recent sales, and the specific grading company used. Additionally, cards with unique features, such as autographs or print errors, may also have a higher value.

The 1952 Topps Johnny Bucha card is an excellent piece of baseball memorabilia from a time when the sport was blossoming in popularity. Though Johnny Bucha may not have been a superstar, his solid defensive abilities and contributions to the St. Louis Browns make him a noteworthy figure in baseball history. Collectors and fans of the game can appreciate the significance of this card and the impact it had on the baseball card industry.