1952 Topps Robin Roberts Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card collection has always held a special place in the hearts of baseball card collectors. Among the many iconic cards from this set is card number 59, featuring Robin Roberts, a true baseball legend. This article will explore Robin Roberts' life and career, including his outstanding MLB statistics, and delve into the value of his 1952 Topps card.

Robin Roberts: The Early Years

Robin Evan Roberts was born on September 30, 1926, in Springfield, Illinois. He showed early promise in baseball and basketball, earning a scholarship to play both sports at Michigan State University. However, after serving in World War II, he transferred to the University of Michigan, where he focused on baseball.

The Philadelphia Phillies signed Roberts in 1948 after he graduated from college. He made his Major League debut on June 18, 1948, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He went on to become one of the most dominant pitchers in the history of Major League Baseball.

Robin Roberts: The Major League Baseball Legend

During his 19-year career, Robin Roberts played for four different teams: the Philadelphia Phillies (1948-1961), Baltimore Orioles (1962-1965), Houston Astros (1965-1966), and Chicago Cubs (1966). He was a key player for the Phillies during their "Whiz Kids" era and played a significant role in the team's 1950 National League pennant win.

Throughout his career, Roberts was a force to be reckoned with on the mound. He was known for his incredible durability and consistently excellent performances.

Robin Roberts' Major League Baseball Stats:

• Win-loss record: 286-245

• Earned run average (ERA): 3.41

• Innings pitched: 4,688.2

• Strikeouts: 2,357

• Complete games: 305

• Shutouts: 45

• All-Star selections: 7 (1950-1956)

• Hall of Fame Induction: 1976

Personal Life

Robin Roberts was married three times in his life. His first wife was Mary Louise Williams, whom he married in 1948. They had four children together before divorcing in 1965. He then married Judy Fenton in 1966, and they had two children together before divorcing in 1972. Finally, he married his third wife, Carol Lee Lane, in 1973, and they remained together until her death in 2010.

Away from baseball, Roberts pursued various interests, including writing, broadcasting, and coaching. He co-authored a book titled "The Whiz Kids and the 1950 Pennant" with C. Paul Rogers III. He also worked as a television broadcaster for the Philadelphia Phillies and was a pitching coach for the Reading Phillies, a minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Roberts was a philanthropist who was actively involved in various charitable organizations. He lent his name to the Robin Roberts Foundation, which supported youth baseball programs and provided scholarships for student-athletes.

Robin Roberts passed away on May 6, 2010, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of excellence both on and off the field.

1952 Topps Robin Roberts Card

The 1952 Topps Robin Roberts card, numbered 59 in the set, is a highly sought-after item among baseball card collectors. It features a stunning color portrait of Roberts, with a yellow background highlighting his red Phillies cap and the team's logo. The bottom of the card features his name and position in a red banner.

The card's reverse side displays Roberts' personal information, including his height, weight , and birthdate, as well as a brief biography and his statistics from the 1951 season. Additionally, the card back features a cartoon illustration of a baseball situation with a trivia question, which was common among Topps cards from this era.

The 1952 Topps set is well-known for its striking design and vibrant colors, making it one of the most popular and valuable vintage card sets on the market. The Robin Roberts card, in particular, is prized for its representation of one of the most successful pitchers in MLB history.

Estimated Value of Robin Roberts 1952 Topps Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Robin Roberts card can vary greatly depending on the card's condition, as well as market demand and rarity. Card grading companies such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Sportscard Guaranty (SGC) grade cards on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest quality.

Here is a rough estimate of the value of a 1952 Topps Robin Roberts card based on its grade:

• PSA 1 (Poor): $100-$150

• PSA 2 (Good): $200-$300

• PSA 3 (Very Good): $350-$500

• PSA 4 (Very Good-Excellent): $550-$750

• PSA 5 (Excellent): $800-$1,200

• PSA 6 (Excellent-Mint): $1,500-$2,000

• PSA 7 (Near Mint): $2,500-$4,000

• PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): $5,000-$7,000

• PSA 9 (Mint): $10,000-$15,000

• PSA 10 (Gem Mint): $20,000-$30,000

These values can fluctuate, and cards that are autographed, have a unique provenance, or are part of a significant collection may command even higher prices. It is essential for collectors to research recent sales and consult experts to determine the most accurate and up-to-date value for their specific card.

The 1952 Topps Robin Roberts card is an essential piece of baseball history, capturing the image of a true legend at the peak of his career. The card's timeless design and the enduring legacy of Robin Roberts make it a must-have for baseball card collectors and fans of the game alike. Collecting and preserving these vintage cards is a way to honor and remember the incredible talents and personalities that have shaped the sport of baseball, and Robin Roberts' card is no exception.