One of the most Iconic Baseball Card Sets in History


1952 Topps Wally Westlake Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and influential sets in the history of the hobby. Among the 407 cards in the set, card number 38 features Wally Westlake, an accomplished Major League Baseball (MLB) player whose career spanned over a decade. In this article, we delve into the history and accomplishments of Wally Westlake and explore the estimated value of his 1952 Topps card.

Wally Westlake: Early Life and Baseball Career

Waldon Thomas Westlake, better known as Wally Westlake, was born on November 8, 1920, in Gridley, California. He made his MLB debut on April 15, 1947, as an outfielder and third baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates. During his career, Westlake played for six different teams, including the Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles, and Philadelphia Phillies.

Wally Westlake's MLB Career Stats

Over the course of his 10-season career, Wally Westlake garnered impressive stats that contributed to his teams' successes. His key stats include:

Wally Westlake's baseball career is marked by several noteworthy accomplishments. He was named an All-Star in 1951 and was a key player in helping the Cleveland Indians win the 1954 American League pennant. Additionally, Westlake hit for the cycle on July 30, 1948, against the Boston Braves, becoming only the second player in Pirates history to achieve this feat.

1952 Topps Wally Westlake Card #38

The 1952 Topps set was groundbreaking in many ways, including its innovative design, which featured a color portrait of the player, along with an action shot in a smaller black-and-white image. The card also displayed the player's name, team, and position, as well as facsimile autographs. Card #38, featuring Wally Westlake, is a prime example of this design, showcasing Westlake as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Collectors and baseball enthusiasts alike treasure the 1952 Topps Wally Westlake card for its historical significance and representation of Westlake's contributions to the game. The card's value depends on several factors, including its condition, scarcity, and overall demand in the market.

Estimated Value of Wally Westlake's 1952 Topps Card

The value of Wally Westlake's 1952 Topps card can vary greatly depending on its condition. Cards that are in mint or near-mint condition, with sharp corners, no creases, and bright, vivid colors, will fetch a higher price than those with noticeable wear, damage, or fading. The following are some estimated values for the card in various conditions:

Please note that these values are estimates and can fluctuate based on factors such as market demand, recent sales of comparable cards, and the overall popularity of the player or card set. Additionally, cards that have been professionally graded by reputable companies such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty) tend to command higher prices, as collectors have more confidence in the card's authenticity and condition.

The Legacy of Wally Westlake and the 1952 Topps Set

While Wally Westlake may not have the same household name recognition as some of his contemporaries like Mickey Mantle or Willie Mays, he was a talented and accomplished player who left a lasting mark on the game of baseball. Collecting his 1952 Topps card is a way for fans and collectors to celebrate his contributions to the sport and own a piece of baseball history.

The 1952 Topps set, including the Wally Westlake card, remains a cornerstone of the baseball card collecting hobby. The set's innovative design, combined with its star-studded roster of players, ensures its enduring appeal for both casual fans and serious collectors. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore the world of vintage baseball cards, the 1952 Topps Wally Westlake card is a classic piece that represents the rich history of America's favorite pastime.

The 1952 Topps Wally Westlake card #38 is a testament to the life and career of an accomplished MLB player. With his solid stats and contributions to multiple teams, Westlake's legacy in the world of baseball is well-deserved. The estimated value of this classic collectible varies based on factors such as condition, grading, and market demand, but it remains a sought-after card for collectors and fans alike. As a piece of baseball history, the 1952 Topps Wally Westlake card is a worthy addition to any collection and serves as a reminder of the game's storied past.

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