Derek Jeter Card Featuring Mickey Mantle and Waving President Gains Attention
In the realm of baseball collectibles, few cards have stirred as much intrigue as the Derek Jeter #40 card from the 2007 Topps release. This card has become a fascinating blend of sports memorabilia and unexpected humor.
Derek Jeter Card Featuring Mickey Mantle and Waving President Captures Attention
Initially, the card appears to be a standard action shot of the legendary New York Yankees player Derek Jeter. However, a closer look reveals two surprising figures in the background: baseball icon Mickey Mantle and former President George W. Bush, both skillfully photoshopped into the image. This blend of sports and politics caught many by surprise.
The Origins of the Card
The unique creation of the Jeter card stemmed from a lighthearted prank during the printing process. Clay Luraschi from Topps noted, “We first saw the card only after it was printed and honestly, could not do anything but laugh.” This playful oversight turned the Jeter card into one of the most talked-about items within the hobby.
Market Impact and Collectors’ Interest
Upon its release, the card ignited significant interest among collectors. Initial buyers paid premiums, with prices reaching around $100 at its peak. However, as more copies entered the market and the rarity diminished, prices began to stabilize.
Variations and Rarities
- The Jeter #40 card features two variations based on subtle differences in the print color on the back: white and red.
- The red back variation is notably rarer, with only 160 graded examples recorded by PSA.
- Additional parallels include Gold (numbered to 2,007), Copper (numbered to 56), Platinum (numbered to 1), and a printing plate (numbered to 1).
In March 2007, the Copper parallel notably sold for as high as $10,100.
Grading Insights and Market Value
As of now, approximately 2,250 Jeter cards have been graded by PSA. The most common grade is PSA 9, while Gem-Mint 10s are scarce, with nearly 170 achieving this status. These top-grade cards can command prices around $800. In contrast, ungraded versions have been spotted for as low as $5.
- Graded Mint examples typically retail around $40.
- Recent sales of the Copper parallel have ranged from $1,500 to $1,900, a stark reduction compared to early 2007 prices.
The Elusive Platinum Card
Notably, the Platinum 1-of-1 card has not been seen publicly since its release almost 20 years ago. Speculation continues about its whereabouts, whether it remains in an unopened pack or is safeguarded by a private collector.
The Derek Jeter #40 card remains a significant artifact in the world of baseball cards, showcasing the complex interplay between sports, culture, and market dynamics.
