1952 Topps Ray Boone Card

Baseball card collectors are always on the lookout for iconic cards to add to their collection. One such card is the 1952 Topps Ray Boone, card number 55. Ray Boone was a talented and respected Major League Baseball player, and his 1952 Topps card is a sought-after collectible that not only reflects his skill on the field but also provides a glimpse into his personal life.

Who was Ray Boone?

Raymond Otis Boone, better known as Ray Boone, was born on July 27, 1923, in San Diego, California. Ray was a talented infielder who played in the Major Leagues from 1948 to 1960. He was a two-time All-Star, and his career spanned 13 years, during which he played for six different teams: the Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Athletics, Milwaukee Braves, and Boston Red Sox.

Ray Boone's MLB Career Stats

• Batting average: .275

• Hits: 1,260

• Home runs: 151

• Runs batted in (RBI): 737

• Stolen bases: 20

• Walks: 631

• Games played: 1,373

• All-Star selections: 2 (1954, 1956)

Ray Boone's Personal Life

Ray Boone was not only known for his impressive career on the field but also for his life off the field. He married his wife, Genny, and together they had three children. Their son, Bob Boone, followed in his father's footsteps and became a Major League Baseball player himself, with a successful career as a catcher. Bob Boone later transitioned to a coaching and management career in baseball.

Ray Boone's family also boasts another MLB player – his grandson, Aaron Boone. Aaron had a successful career as a third baseman, and he now serves as the manager of the New York Yankees. The Boone family is one of the few in Major League Baseball to have three generations of players, making them a truly unique and iconic family in the world of baseball.

The 1952 Topps Ray Boone Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is one of the most renowned and sought-after sets in the hobby. This set is known for its colorful design, large card size, and inclusion of numerous baseball legends. Card number 55, featuring Ray Boone, is no exception.

The card's design is classic and eye-catching, with the player's portrait set against a colorful background. Boone's card features a blue background with a stylized baseball field design. The card's front also displays his name, position, and team, while the back of the card provides a detailed statistical breakdown of Boone's career up to that point, as well as a short biography and a cartoon illustrating a fun fact about the player.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Ray Boone Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Ray Boone card can vary greatly depending on its condition and any additional factors such as autographs or provenance. In general, the value of this card has seen a steady increase over the years due to its scarcity, the popularity of the 1952 Topps set, and Boone's place in baseball history.

Here are some estimated values for the 1952 Topps Ray Boone card in various conditions:

• Poor to Fair condition: $25 - $50

• Good to Very Good condition: $50 - $100

• Excellent condition: $100 - $250

• Near Mint condition: $250 - $500

• Mint condition: $500 - $1,000+

Please note that these values are estimates and can fluctuate based on market trends, demand, and other factors. As with any collectible, the value of a 1952 Topps Ray Boone card can be subjective, and the actual selling price may be higher or lower than these estimates.

In addition to the card's condition, other factors can also influence its value. For example, a Ray Boone card that has been autographed by the player himself would likely command a higher price than an unsigned card. Similarly, if a card has a provenance tied to a noteworthy event or person, it may also be more valuable.

Tips for Collecting Ray Boone Cards

If you're interested in adding a 1952 Topps Ray Boone card to your collection, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Research the market: Familiarize yourself with the current market trends for 1952 Topps cards, and specifically for Ray Boone cards. This will help you determine a fair price for the card and ensure that you're making an informed decision when purchasing.

Examine the card's condition: As with any collectible, the condition of a baseball card plays a significant role in determining its value. Be sure to carefully inspect any potential purchases, and consider having the card graded by a reputable third-party grading service, such as PSA, SGC, or Beckett, to confirm its condition.

Look for reputable sellers: When purchasing vintage baseball cards, it's essential to deal with reputable sellers to ensure that you're getting an authentic card. Look for sellers with positive feedback and a history of selling sports memorabilia. Online marketplaces such as eBay or specialized sports card forums can be a good place to start.

Be patient: Collecting vintage baseball cards can be a long-term investment, and it's important to be patient when looking for the right card at the right price. Don't be afraid to wait for the perfect opportunity to add a 1952 Topps Ray Boone card to your collection.

The 1952 Topps Ray Boone card, number 55, is a cherished collectible that represents not only the impressive career of Ray Boone but also the incredible legacy of the Boone family in Major League Baseball. With its vibrant design, detailed stats, and fascinating personal story, this card is a must-have for any serious baseball card collector.

As with any vintage baseball card, the value of a 1952 Topps Ray Boone card can vary depending on its condition and other factors. By understanding market trends, carefully examining potential purchases, and dealing with reputable sellers, collectors can successfully acquire this sought-after piece of baseball history and enjoy the thrill of owning a card that celebrates the life and career of a true baseball legend.