Fred Marsh, also known as “Red” or “Lefty,” was a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball who played briefly for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1954 and 1955. His rookie card, the 1955 Topps Fred Marsh #13, is a highly sought-after item among baseball card collectors. In this article, we will take a closer look at this card and why it has become so popular.
The 1955 Topps baseball card set is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and important sets in the hobby. It was the first set to feature color photographs of the players, using high-quality printing techniques that set it apart from other sets of the time. The set contains 206 cards, with the Fred Marsh card being number 13.
The front of the card features a color photograph of Fred Marsh in his Cardinals uniform, with a classic red and white border. The corners of the card are rounded, and its dimensions are 2 5/8″ by 3 ¾”. One unique aspect of this card is that the photograph is actually a headshot, with Marsh looking directly at the camera. This was uncommon for the time, as most cards featured an action shot of the player.
On the back of the card, you can find a brief biography of Fred Marsh, along with his career statistics and a cartoon drawing of him. The cartoon, a staple of Topps cards at the time, shows Marsh in his pitching stance and describes his style as “plenty of junk mixed in with fastballs.” It also lists his height and weight as 6’1” and 195 pounds, respectively.
There are a few reasons why the 1955 Topps Fred Marsh card is so highly sought after among collectors. Firstly, it is a part of the iconic 1955 Topps set, which holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors. The set’s vibrant colors, high-quality photos, and large number of rookie cards have made it a favorite among hobbyists.
Secondly, the card is Marsh’s only recognized rookie card. Although he only played in the major leagues for two seasons, many collectors still consider this card to be his official rookie card. This adds to its value and collectibility.
Lastly, the scarcity of this card in high-grade condition also plays a significant role in its popularity. As the card was produced over 65 years ago and was likely handled by young children, finding one in pristine condition is no easy task. This scarcity drives up the price and demand for the card, especially in the higher grades.
The card’s condition is measured using a grading system, with the highest possible grade being a 10 and the lowest being a 1. The 1955 Topps Fred Marsh card has been graded by the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), with a grade of 2. This means that the card is in fair condition, with obvious wear and tear, but still has its original features intact. A card of this grade may have corners that are frayed or rounded, and the edges may have visible wear.
Despite its grade, the 1955 Topps Fred Marsh #13 card remains a highly desirable item among collectors. In 2019, a PSA 2 sold for over $500 at an online auction. This shows the continued demand for this card and its ability to fetch a high price, even in lower grades.
In conclusion, the 1955 Topps Fred Marsh #13 card is a standout in the iconic 1955 Topps set. With its vibrant colors, unique headshot photograph, and scarcity in high-grade condition, it has become a prized possession among collectors. Whether you are a fan of the set, a Cardinals fan, or simply a baseball card enthusiast, this card is a must-have for any collection.