1952 Topps Monty Basgall Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card series is one of the most iconic and sought-after card sets in the history of the hobby. Among the many notable cards in this collection is card number 12, which features Monty Basgall. Basgall was a Major League Baseball (MLB) player who enjoyed a brief but memorable career. This article will delve into who Monty Basgall was, his MLB stats, and the estimated value of his 1952 Topps card.

Monty Basgall: The Man Behind Card No. 12

Monty Lee Basgall was born on August 8, 1922, in Pfeifer, Kansas. As a talented infielder, Basgall was primarily a second baseman, but he also played shortstop and third base throughout his career. He signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1942 but had to put his professional baseball career on hold to serve in World War II. After returning from military service, he resumed his baseball career, making his MLB debut on September 29, 1948.

During his time in the major leagues, Basgall played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1948-1951) and was known for his exceptional fielding skills and team leadership. He was a solid, consistent player who provided steady defensive support to his team. After his playing days, Basgall went on to become a successful minor league manager and MLB coach, working with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.

Monty Basgall's MLB Stats

Monty Basgall's major league career spanned four seasons, from 1948 to 1951. His MLB statistics are as follows:

• Games Played: 168

• At-Bats: 491

• Runs: 59

• Hits: 118

• Doubles: 18

• Triples: 5

• Home Runs: 1

• Runs Batted In (RBIs): 41

• Stolen Bases: 5

• Walks: 54

• Strikeouts: 41

• Batting Average: .240

• On-Base Percentage (OBP): .310

• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .301

• Fielding Percentage: .972

While Basgall's stats may not have been record-breaking, he was a reliable and valuable player for the Pirates during his tenure. His defensive prowess and strong work ethic earned him respect from his teammates and coaches.

The 1952 Topps Monty Basgall Card No. 12

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is renowned for its stunning design, vibrant colors, and high-quality printing. The Monty Basgall card features a portrait of the infielder in his Pittsburgh Pirates uniform, set against a deep red background. The card design is simple and elegant, with Basgall's name and team in a banner at the bottom of the card, and his position and card number in the top corners.

Estimated Value of Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps Card

The value of Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps card can vary significantly depending on factors such as condition, rarity, and demand. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the estimated value of the card:

• In poor to fair condition (with significant wear, creases, or damage), the card may be worth between $10 and $50.

• In good to very good condition (with moderate wear and some minor flaws), the card may be worth between $50 and $150.

• In excellent to near-mint condition (with minimal wear and no significant flaws), the card may be worth between $150 and $400.

• In mint or gem-mint condition (with virtually no wear or imperfections), the card may be worth between $400 and $1,000 or even higher.

It is important to note that these values are only estimates and can change over time based on market conditions and the rarity of the card. The best way to determine the accurate value of a specific Monty Basgall 1952 Topps card is to consult with a professional appraiser or card grading service.

Collecting Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps Card

Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps card is a popular choice among collectors, especially those with an interest in baseball history, the Pittsburgh Pirates, or the golden era of baseball. This card is often considered a valuable addition to any baseball card collection due to its iconic design, historical significance, and connection to the legendary 1952 Topps set.

When looking to add Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps card to your collection, it is important to consider factors such as card condition, rarity, and authenticity. Card grading services, such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty), can help you determine the quality and authenticity of a card, making it easier to evaluate its value and protect your investment.

Monty Basgall's 1952 Topps card is a testament to a bygone era of baseball and a classic example of the beautiful and collectible 1952 Topps baseball card series. Although Basgall may not have been a Hall of Fame player, his card remains a sought-after piece of baseball history and memorabilia. Whether you are a casual collector or a serious enthusiast, the Monty Basgall card no. 12 is a fantastic addition to any collection, both for its historical significance and its iconic design.