In this series of posts, we're going to break down and explain the different types of baseball cards that are out there. Recent years have seen a huge increase in the different types of cards that are available and it can understandably be confusing, especially with the different terminology and acronyms.
To start things off, we've decided to go for the most overwhelmingly common of cards - the base card. This'll likely be a shorter entry than usual because these will be the most frequently come across type of card; either from opening packs yourself or looking through individual card listings on eBay.
Quite simply, these are all the regular cards which comprise a set. For example, in 2020 Topps there are 350 cards in the base set. In addition, there are also parallels, inserts & variations which aren't included as part of the base set checklist (which we'll get into at a later time).
Usually card manufacturers will include the top players from the previous year, including rookies, in their base sets. But some products can include prospects or Hall of Famers as base cards too. There is definitely something for everyone within the base sets of different cards.
You can generally pick up recent individual base cards very inexpensively too. Even base cards of superstars like Mike Trout can be found for a less than a couple of pounds each.
There are two big general exceptions though. First, big name rookie cards that are included in the base set sell for significantly more. And second, bigger name players in vintage sets of cards can also be much more expensive.
All that said though, no matter whether you are looking to collect a team or an individual player, base cards are a great way to go. They nearly always have a high level of supply which makes them very affordable, they can have some stunning designs and they are an excellent way to build up your collection.
Do you have a favourite base card in your collection?
Share it with us in the comments or on twitter.
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