1952 Topps Allie Reynolds Card

One of the most cherished collectibles in the world of sports memorabilia is the 1952 Topps Allie Reynolds baseball card. Card number 67 features the famed New York Yankees pitcher, Allie Reynolds, who played a vital role in the team's success throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s. The card not only represents an important piece of baseball history but also sheds light on the life of a remarkable athlete. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Allie Reynolds, explore his Major League Baseball (MLB) statistics, and discuss the value of his iconic 1952 Topps card.

Allie Reynolds: The Early Years

Allie Pierce Reynolds, also known as the "Superchief," was born on February 10, 1917, in Bethany, Oklahoma. Of Native American descent, Reynolds was a proud member of the Creek Nation, and his heritage played a significant role in shaping his identity and character. Allie's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He excelled in multiple sports during his high school and college years, including baseball, basketball, and track.

Reynolds attended Oklahoma A&M College (now known as Oklahoma State University) on a track scholarship, where he continued to participate in various sports. While in college, he was spotted by a Cleveland Indians scout, who saw potential in his baseball skills. This encounter led to the beginning of Allie Reynolds' professional baseball journey.

Allie Reynolds: MLB Career

Reynolds began his MLB career with the Cleveland Indians in 1942, where he played until 1946. In 1947, he was traded to the New York Yankees, a move that would mark the beginning of an illustrious career with the legendary baseball team. As a starting pitcher and reliever, Reynolds played a crucial role in the Yankees' dominance during that era, helping them win six World Series titles from 1947 to 1953.

MLB Career Statistics:

- Win-Loss Record: 182-107

- Earned Run Average (ERA): 3.30

- Innings Pitched: 2,299

- Strikeouts: 1,423

- Complete Games: 137

- Shutouts: 36

- Saves: 44

- Six-time All-Star (1945, 1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, 1954)

- Two-time MLB ERA leader (1952, 1953)

- Two-time MLB strikeout leader (1943, 1952)

- Three-time MLB shutout leader (1945, 1951, 1952)

- Six-time World Series champion (1947, 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953)

Reynolds' most notable achievements include pitching two no-hitters in the 1951 season and setting a World Series record with a 0.00 ERA in 1950. He retired from professional baseball in 1954, leaving behind an impressive legacy and an enduring impact on the sport.

Allie Reynolds: Personal Life

Allie Reynolds was known for his strong work ethic, humility, and unyielding dedication to his craft. While he was a fierce competitor on the field, he was well-liked by his teammates and respected by his opponents. Reynolds remained an active and dedicated supporter of the Creek Nation throughout his life, and he frequently returned to Oklahoma to participate in tribal events and activities.

Reynolds' personal life revolved around his family. He was married to his wife, Jennie , for over 50 years until his death in 1994. Together, they had three children and several grandchildren. After retiring from baseball, Reynolds worked as a scout for the Yankees for a few years before leaving the baseball world to focus on his family and business interests. He remained active in his community and was involved in various charitable and civic organizations.

The 1952 Topps Allie Reynolds Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is often considered one of the most iconic and influential card sets in the hobby's history. It was the first set to feature full-color artwork, giving collectors a more realistic and visually appealing representation of their favorite players. The Allie Reynolds card, number 67, features a portrait of the pitcher set against a bright blue background, with his name and team displayed prominently below.

Estimated Value

The value of a 1952 Topps Allie Reynolds card can vary greatly depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. Generally, the card's value ranges from $100 to $1,000 or more, with higher-graded examples in mint condition fetching significantly higher prices. Professional grading services such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) assess the condition of vintage cards and assign a numerical grade, which helps collectors determine the card's value and authenticity.

Factors Affecting Value:

- Condition: The overall condition of the card, including its corners, edges, surface, and centering, plays a significant role in determining its value. Cards in excellent or mint condition will command higher prices than those with visible wear or damage.

- Rarity: The 1952 Topps set was released in multiple series, with the Allie Reynolds card being part of the first series. This series is considered less scarce than the later "high number" series, which may affect the card's overall value.

- Provenance: Cards with a documented history of ownership, especially those once owned by notable collectors or athletes, can command a premium in the market.

- Grading: Professionally graded cards are more likely to fetch higher prices, as collectors have confidence in the card's assessed condition and authenticity.

The 1952 Topps Allie Reynolds card is a beloved piece of baseball history, representing the life and career of one of the sport's most accomplished and respected players. Collectors value the card for its striking design, historical significance, and the legacy of the man it depicts. As interest in vintage sports cards continues to grow, the 1952 Topps Allie Reynolds card remains an attractive and sought-after collectible for baseball enthusiasts and hobbyists alike.