One of the most Iconic Baseball Card Sets in History


1952 Topps Joe Page Card

The 1952 Topps Baseball card set is a true classic in the world of sports card collecting. These cards feature some of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history, including legends like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays. Among these notable players is Joe Page, a dominant relief pitcher who played for the New York Yankees. Card number 48 in the set commemorates Page, who was known as "The Gay Reliever" for his colorful personality and hard-partying ways off the field. This article takes a closer look at Joe Page's career, personal life, and the value of his 1952 Topps baseball card.

Who was Joe Page?

Joseph Francis Page, born on October 28, 1917, in Cherry Valley, Pennsylvania, was a left-handed relief pitcher who played for the New York Yankees from 1944 to 1950. Page was a key figure in the Yankees' bullpen during their championship seasons in 1947, 1949, and 1950. His hard-throwing style and late-inning heroics earned him the nickname "The Gay Reliever," as he often provided a much-needed spark for his team in tight games. Page was a two-time All-Star and the winner of the Babe Ruth Award in 1949.

Joe Page's MLB Stats:

During his career in Major League Baseball, Joe Page recorded impressive statistics, which are summarized below:

Joe Page's Personal Life:

Off the field, Joe Page was known for his lively personality and love for the nightlife. He was a regular at Toots Shor's, a famous New York City restaurant and bar frequented by athletes, entertainers, and other celebrities. His partying ways, however, took a toll on his career, and by 1950, his effectiveness as a relief pitcher began to decline. After a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1951, Page was unable to secure a contract in Major League Baseball for the 1952 season.

Following his baseball career, Page returned to his hometown of Cherry Valley, Pennsylvania, where he worked as a laborer at a steel mill. He later owned and operated a tavern in nearby Reading, Pennsylvania. Page passed away on April 21, 1980, at the age of 62.

1952 Topps Joe Page Card Description:

The 1952 Topps Joe Page card, numbered 48 in the set, features a colorized photograph of Page in his New York Yankees uniform. The card's design is typical of the 1952 Topps set, with the player's photograph set against a colored background (red for Page's card), a facsimile autograph on the front, and the Topps logo in the top left corner. The back of the card includes a brief bio, career statistics, and a cartoon illustration related to the player.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Joe Page Card:

The value of the 1952 Topps Joe Page card depends on its condition, with higher graded cards commanding a premium in the market. Here are some estimated values based on the card's condition:

Please note that these estimated values are subject to change depending on market fluctuations, the card's provenance, and the overall demand for 1952 Topps baseball cards.

Collecting the 1952 Topps Joe Page Card:

The 1952 Topps Joe Page card is a piece of baseball history that appeals to both fans of the New York Yankees and vintage baseball card collectors. With Page's contributions to the Yankees' championship teams and his larger-than-life personality, this card is a fascinating artifact from the golden age of baseball.

To acquire a 1952 Topps Joe Page card, collectors can explore various avenues, including sports card shops, online auctions, and sports memorabilia shows. Additionally, vintage card collectors often connect with one another through online forums and social media platforms, making it possible to find and trade for this sought-after card.

The 1952 Topps Joe Page card offers a glimpse into the life and career of a talented and enigmatic relief pitcher who played a significant role in the New York Yankees' success during the late 1940s. With his impressive statistics and intriguing personal life, Joe Page remains a fascinating figure in baseball history. Collecting his 1952 Topps card is an opportunity to celebrate and remember one of the game's most memorable characters, as well as to own a piece of the legendary 1952 Topps baseball card set.

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