1952 Topps Bob Wellman Card

When baseball card enthusiasts think of the 1952 Topps set, the first card that comes to mind is the iconic Mickey Mantle card, which has become one of the most valuable and sought-after cards in the hobby. However, the 1952 Topps set features a wide range of players who each have their own unique stories and legacies. One such player is Bob Wellman, featured on card number 41 in the set.

Bob Wellman: Early Life and Career

Robert Allen "Bob" Wellman was born on July 5, 1925, in San Francisco, California. Growing up during the Great Depression, Wellman developed a strong work ethic and a passion for the game of baseball. As a young man, he played semi-pro baseball and caught the attention of major league scouts.

In 1943, at the age of 18, Wellman began his professional baseball career when he signed with the St. Louis Browns as an amateur free agent. Initially, his career was interrupted by World War II, when he served in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1945. After the war, Wellman resumed his baseball career in the minor leagues, working his way up to the major leagues by demonstrating his skills as an outfielder and first baseman.

Bob Wellman's MLB Career and Stats

Wellman made his major league debut with the St. Louis Browns on April 19, 1951, at the age of 25. He played in the major leagues for two seasons, with his final game taking place on September 28, 1952. While Wellman's major league career was brief, he left a lasting impression on those who had the opportunity to watch him play. His MLB career statistics include:

• Games played: 101

• Batting average: .242

• Hits: 78

• Home runs: 6

• Runs batted in: 39

• Runs: 29

• Doubles: 16

• Triples: 3

• Stolen bases: 1

• Walks: 34

• Strikeouts: 47

Following his major league career, Wellman continued to play in the minor leagues until 1959. He played for a variety of teams, including the San Antonio Missions, the Dallas Rangers, and the Vancouver Mounties. He transitioned into a player-manager role for several seasons, mentoring young players and sharing his baseball knowledge with the next generation.

The 1952 Topps Bob Wellman Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is often considered the beginning of the modern era of baseball cards. This was the first year that Topps issued a full set of cards featuring color photographs and biographical information on the back of each card. The set was initially released in two series, with the first series being much more common than the second. The Bob Wellman card is part of the first series, making it relatively easier to find than many other cards in the set.

The design of the 1952 Topps Bob Wellman card is simple yet striking. The card features a colorized portrait of Wellman in his St. Louis Browns uniform, with a white border surrounding the image. The card's layout includes Wellman's name, team, and position in a red banner across the bottom. The back of the card features biographical information, a brief career summary, and a cartoon illustration related to baseball.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Bob Wellman Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Bob Wellman card can vary significantly depending on its condition. Factors such as the card's centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall eye appeal can all impact its value. Additionally, the demand for the card in the market also plays a role in determining its worth.

In general, the 1952 Topps Bob Wellman card is considered a common card within the set, meaning it is not as rare or valuable as some of the star players or high-number cards from the same series. However, the card still holds value for collectors who appreciate the history and nostalgia associated with the 1952 Topps set.

Here are some estimated values for the Bob Wellman card in various conditions:

• Poor to Fair condition: $10 - $25

• Good to Very Good condition: $30 - $60

• Excellent condition: $75 - $125

• Near Mint condition: $150 - $250

• Mint condition: $300 - $500

It is essential to keep in mind that these are only estimated values, and the actual value of a specific card can vary based on factors such as demand, recent sales, and the overall market for vintage baseball cards. Additionally, professionally graded cards (e.g., by PSA or SGC) often command a premium over raw, ungraded cards due to the added assurance of the card's condition.

The 1952 Topps Bob Wellman card is a window into baseball's past, capturing a moment in time for a player whose major league career was brief but memorable. While the card may not be as valuable as some of the iconic cards from the same set, it remains an essential piece of the puzzle for collectors seeking to complete the 1952 Topps set or those who simply appreciate the history and beauty of vintage baseball cards. As the hobby continues to evolve and grow, the 1952 Topps Bob Wellman card will forever hold a special place in the hearts of baseball card enthusiasts.