1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and sought-after collections in the hobby. It features a variety of legendary players, including Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Jackie Robinson. One such card that often flies under the radar but is of great interest to collectors and fans alike is card number 29, featuring Ted Kluszewski. In this article, we'll explore who Ted Kluszewski was, delve into his impressive MLB stats, and provide an estimated value of this classic baseball card.

Who Was Ted Kluszewski?

Born on September 10, 1924, in Argo, Illinois, Theodore Bernard "Ted" Kluszewski was a Major League Baseball (MLB) first baseman known for his powerful hitting and impressive fielding skills. He spent the majority of his 15-year MLB career playing for the Cincinnati Reds. Kluszewski was also known for his trademark sleeveless jerseys, which showcased his muscular arms and contributed to his nickname, "Big Klu."

Ted Kluszewski's MLB Career

Ted Kluszewski made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds on April 18, 1947. Over the course of his career, he played for the Reds, the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Chicago White Sox, and the Los Angeles Angels. Kluszewski was a four-time All-Star (1953-1956) and was known for his incredible power at the plate. He led the National League in home runs and runs batted in during the 1954 season, making him one of the most feared hitters of his time.

Ted Kluszewski's MLB Stats

Here are some of the key stats from Ted Kluszewski's impressive MLB career:

• Seasons: 15 (1947-1961)

• Games Played: 1,718

• Batting Average: .298

• Hits: 1,956

• Home Runs: 279

• Runs Batted In (RBIs): 1,028

• On-Base Percentage (OBP): .356

• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .498

• All-Star Appearances: 4 (1953, 1954, 1955, 1956)

• Fielding Percentage: .993

Throughout his career, Kluszewski was known for his remarkable contact hitting, as he rarely struck out. In fact, in the 1955 season, he hit 47 home runs and struck out only 40 times, a feat that has rarely been matched in MLB history.

The 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski Card

The 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski card is a classic piece of baseball memorabilia. Measuring 2.5 by 3.5 inches, the card features a portrait of Kluszewski in his Reds uniform. The card's design is indicative of the era, with a simple layout and a focus on the player's image. The card number (29) is featured in the top left corner, and Kluszewski's name and team are printed in bold white letters along the top edge. The card's reverse side features biographical information, career stats, and a brief cartoon illustrating a fact about the player.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski card can vary widely depending on its condition, as well as factors such as the card's centering and overall appearance. Additionally, the card's value is influenced by the fluctuating market for sports memorabilia and the demand for vintage baseball cards.

In general, a 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski card in near-mint to mint condition can fetch between $1,000 and $3,000. However, the value can increase significantly if the card has been professionally graded by a reputable card grading service such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) or Sportscard Guaranty (SGC). Cards that receive a high grade, such as a PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint) or higher, can command prices in the range of $5,000 to $10,000 or even more in some cases.

Cards in lower grades or with noticeable flaws, such as creases, rounded corners, or off-centering, will typically have a lower value. A card in good to very good condition might sell for between $100 and $500, while a card in fair or poor condition could be worth $50 to $100.

It is important to note that these values are only estimates and can change over time due to market fluctuations and trends in the sports memorabilia industry. Collectors should always consult multiple sources, including recent sales data and expert opinions, to determine the current value of their cards.

The 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski card is a fantastic piece of baseball history that offers collectors a chance to own a tangible connection to one of the game's most powerful hitters. Kluszewski's impressive MLB stats and memorable playing style have cemented his place in the annals of baseball history, making his card a desirable addition to any collection. With a wide range of values depending on the card's condition and grading, the 1952 Topps Ted Kluszewski card is a must-have for both casual fans and serious collectors alike. As interest in vintage baseball cards and memorabilia continues to grow, the value of this iconic card may only increase, making it an excellent investment for those who appreciate the rich history of America's pastime.