1952 Baseball Cards - 1952 Topps Vern Law

One of the most Iconic Baseball Card Sets in History

1952 Topps Vern Law Card

Vern Law

Vern Law was an eminent figure in the world of baseball. Born on March 12, 1930, in Meridian, Idaho, he was known for his exceptional right-handed pitching skills and sportsmanship, which earned him a reputation in Major League Baseball (MLB). Law's career spanned sixteen years, most of which were spent with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His dedication and passion for the sport made him one of the iconic athletes of his time.

Vern Law's MLB journey began in 1950, but it was in 1952 when he debuted on a Topps baseball card, card number 81. This card, which is now a coveted collector's item, showcases Law in his early career and stands as a symbol of a time when baseball was transitioning from a sport to a cultural phenomenon.

Vern Law's MLB Stats

Law’s baseball career, primarily spent with the Pittsburgh Pirates, was rich with notable achievements. Here are a few highlights:

* Games Played: 398

* Innings Pitched: 2672.2

* Wins: 162

* Losses: 147

* Earned Run Average (ERA): 3.77

* Strikeouts: 1092

* Walks: 597

* Complete Games: 101

* Shutouts: 28

Law was selected to the All-Star team twice, in 1960 and 1962. His career peaked in 1960 when he won the Cy Young Award and the World Series with the Pirates. He earned the nickname "Deacon" due to his service as a deacon in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his sportsmanship.

Personal Life of Vern Law

Off the pitch, Vern Law was a dedicated family man. He married VaNita Ashment in 1951, and together they had five sons. His faith played a central role in his life; he was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

One of Law's sons, Vance Law, followed his father's footsteps into the MLB, making them one of the few father-son duos to have played in the league. Vance also had a successful career, playing for various teams over 11 seasons.

After retiring from baseball, Law settled in Provo, Utah. He transitioned to a career in coaching, serving as a pitching coach at Brigham Young University for several years. He also gave back to the community through his church service.

The 1952 Topps Vern Law Baseball Card

Topps debuted its first set of baseball cards in 1952, marking the beginning of the modern era of baseball cards. Card number 81 from this set features a young Vern Law in a pitcher's pose, ready to throw. The card, with its simple design and bright, bold colors, embodies the charm of the early '50s baseball era.

Topps’ 1952 set is often considered the most iconic post-war baseball card set, and Vern Law's card is a key part of this collection. The card offers a snapshot of Law early in his career before he achieved most of his notable MLB accomplishments.

Estimated Value of 1952 Topps Vern Law Card

The value of the 1952 Topps Vern Law card can vary considerably depending on factors such as the card's condition, the grading company's evaluation, and market demand. As of 2021, a card in near-mint condition could fetch anywhere from $200 to $400. However, the price could be much higher for a card in mint condition or with a high-grade evaluation from a reputable company.

Prices for vintage baseball cards have been on an upward trend, making it possible that the value of Law's 1952 Topps card has increased beyond the 2021 estimates. It's also worth noting that the sentimental value of such cards often surpasses their financial worth, particularly for long-time baseball fans and those with a personal connection to Law or the era he represents.

Vern Law was more than just an athlete. He was an exemplary figure on and off the field, embodying the virtues of dedication, faith, and sportsmanship. The 1952 Topps Vern Law card serves as a symbol of his early career and a relic from a golden era of baseball. As such, it holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and baseball enthusiasts alike.