The 1955 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and sought-after collections in the hobby. Featuring a variety of stars and rookie cards, one of the most notable cards in the set is the Bob Turley #38 card.
Bob Turley, also known as Bullet Bob, was a dominant pitcher in Major League Baseball for 12 seasons. He played for multiple teams, including the Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Angels. Turley played a significant role in the Orioles’ first-ever World Series win in 1966.
The 1955 Topps Bob Turley #38 card showcases the 25-year-old pitcher in his signature follow-through motion. The card’s design features a classic portrait of Turley with his name, team, and position printed in bold letters below his image. The background features a vibrant red border with a yellow trim, giving the card a distinct and colorful appearance.
In terms of rarity and value, the 1955 Topps Bob Turley #38 card is highly sought-after by collectors. PSA, the leading third-party grading and authentication company, has graded this card a 3, marking it as a “very good” condition card. This grade indicates that the card has minor wear and tear, but overall, it still maintains its full color, focus, and central image.
Collectors value graded cards as they are considered to be more authentic and preserved compared to ungraded ones. Having a PSA grade of 3 also means that this Bob Turley card is affordable for both serious and casual collectors. With a grade lower than a 3, the value of the card could significantly decrease, making this graded card an excellent addition to any collection.
Besides its value and rarity, the 1955 Topps Bob Turley #38 card is also significant in terms of the player’s career and impact on the sport. As one of the top pitchers of his time, Turley had impressive stats, including a 101-85 record, 3.64 ERA, and 1,265 strikeouts. He also won the Cy Young Award in 1958 and was named an All-Star twice.
Turley’s contribution to the sport also extends beyond his playing years. In 1968, he became the pitching coach for the Cardinals, making him the first-ever African American to hold a major league pitching coach position. He later served as a pitching coach for the Yankees, where he mentored young talent like Ron Guidry and helped the team win another World Series in 1977.
In conclusion, the 1955 Topps Bob Turley #38 card is both a valuable and significant piece of baseball history. With its striking design and PSA grade, it is a must-have for any collector looking to add a piece of the legendary pitcher’s legacy to their collection. Whether you are a fan of Turley or a collector of vintage baseball cards, this card is a worthy addition that will only appreciate in value over time.