1952 Topps Monte Irvin Card

The 1952 Topps Monte Irvin card number 26 is a nostalgic piece of baseball memorabilia that honors the incredible career of Hall of Famer Monte Irvin. Widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his era, Irvin was an exceptional player both on and off the field. A remarkable hitter and fielder, he made a significant impact on baseball history, breaking barriers and setting records. In this article, we will explore Monte Irvin's life, his outstanding MLB statistics, and the estimated value of his iconic 1952 Topps card.

Monte Irvin: A Baseball Legend

Monford Merrill "Monte" Irvin was born on February 25, 1919, in Haleburg, Alabama, and grew up in New Jersey. As a multi-sport athlete, Irvin excelled in football, basketball, and baseball during his high school years. However, it was his outstanding talent on the baseball field that caught the attention of professional scouts.

Irvin began his professional career in the Negro leagues, playing for the Newark Eagles from 1938 to 1942 and again from 1946 to 1948, after serving in World War II. He was a key player in the Eagles' 1946 Negro League World Series victory.

In 1949, Irvin became one of the first African American players to break the color barrier in Major League Baseball when he signed with the New York Giants. He played in the majors from 1949 to 1956, primarily as a left fielder and occasionally as a right fielder. Irvin's exceptional skills and tenacity earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973.

Monte Irvin's MLB Stats

Monte Irvin's MLB career may have been relatively short, but his achievements on the field were nothing short of spectacular. Some of his most notable statistics include:

• MLB Career: 1949-1956

• Teams: New York Giants (1949-1955), Chicago Cubs (1956)

• Position: Left Fielder / Right Fielder

• Games Played: 764

• Batting Average: .293

• Home Runs: 99

• Runs Batted In (RBIs): 443

• Runs Scored: 366

• Hits: 731

• Doubles: 97

• Triples: 31

• Stolen Bases: 28

• Walks: 263

• On-Base Percentage: .383

• Slugging Percentage: .475

• OPS (On-Base Plus Slugging): .858

• All-Star: 1952

• World Series Champion: 1954

It's important to note that these statistics only represent Irvin's MLB career, which began when he was 30 years old. Had he started playing in the majors at a younger age, his numbers would likely have been even more impressive.

1952 Topps Monte Irvin Card Number 26

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and sought-after collections in the hobby. It is particularly noteworthy for its eye-catching design and the inclusion of many legendary players, such as Mickey Mantle, Jackie Robinson, and, of course, Monte Irvin.

Monte Irvin's card is number 26 in the set and features a striking portrait of the young slugger in his New York Giants uniform. The card's design includes a facsimile autograph, a large team logo, and a solid color background that contrasts with the player's image. The back of the card provides a wealth of information about Irvin, including his personal details, career statistics, and a brief biography. The card's layout and design have become synonymous with the golden era of baseball and represent a time when the sport was growing in popularity across the United States.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Monte Irvin Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Monte Irvin card can vary significantly based on factors such as its condition, the grading company that has authenticated it, and the overall demand for vintage baseball cards. It is essential to note that, like any collectible, the market value of this card can fluctuate over time.

That being said, the estimated value of a Monte Irvin 1952 Topps card in good to excellent condition typically ranges between $200 and $1,000. However, cards in near-mint or mint condition can fetch considerably higher prices, sometimes exceeding $5,000. Additionally, if the card has been professionally graded by a reputable company such as PSA or SGC, its value can increase significantly.

A Monte Irvin 1952 Topps card in pristine condition (PSA 9 or SGC 9) is extremely rare and can be worth tens of thousands of dollars. The highest graded example to date, a PSA 10 (gem mint), sold at auction for an astounding $57,000 in 2016. While it is improbable that most collectors will come across a card in such remarkable condition, it demonstrates the potential value and desirability of this iconic piece of baseball history.

Monte Irvin was a groundbreaking player whose talent and determination helped to reshape the landscape of baseball. His 1952 Topps card number 26 serves as a tribute to his incredible career and his lasting impact on the sport. Collectors and fans alike cherish the card for its historical significance, its striking design, and as a reminder of a bygone era in baseball history.

As the value of vintage baseball cards continues to grow, the 1952 Topps Monte Irvin card remains a sought-after collectible, particularly among those who appreciate the game's rich history and the players who paved the way for future generations. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, adding a Monte Irvin card to your collection is a fantastic way to celebrate the legacy of one of baseball's all-time greats.