Selling/Trading Clemente Cards in Order to Complete Topps Heritage Master Sets

Tere1071

Roberto Clemente was my favorite player and since returning to collecting in 2014, I put together a run of his cards beginning with a trimmed 1955, continuing until 1973. With the exception of a 1956 PSA 3.5 and a1960 that is PSA 5, the rest of the cards are raw. The rest would run between 4 to 7.5 if graded, but centering on many would be 60/70 or 70/30. The 1971 is very nice and is well centered.

At about the same time I rediscovered collecting a friend introduced me to the Heritage cards. I began getting only base sets, then moved up to the 1-500 set. Now I am going after all of the SSP cards as well as the Wal Mart and Target subsets. I don't collect the relic, autographed, chrome or minor league cards.

Financially I cannot go after the more esoteric Clemente cards or purchase PSA 7-8 like-cards to satisfy what I would really like to have. Likewise I cannot purchase the original sets, but the Heritage sets at least gives me the illusion of having vintage cards. As for the SSP variants I am now at the point where the cards are going to be more expensive, particularly from 2013-on.

I know that vintage cards are more collectible and generally preferable than "newer" cards in most cases. Being that I cannot go beyond what I already have with the Clemente cards, which are nice, but not really what I wanted condition-wise, I thought about offering them up for trade for Heritage SSP singles I need. I remain undecided, but pondering the possibility.

muffins

stick w clemente.

craig44

I second sticking with clemente.

swish54

I absolutely would not get rid of any Clemente playing days card for a modern card! Generally speaking, modern stuff takes a huge hit value wise the longer it's out. They don't hold value like a vintage card does, especially an icon like Clemente. Find something else to trade that's newer. In five years, would you rather have a Clemente playing days card or a ssp of Dan Straily who's not even playing anymore because he was released.

bassmnky413

I feel your pain about having a heart for Clemente as well as newer stuff. I'm a big fan of Topps Triple Threads. I also understand wanting to buy the really good stuff. However, I'm just happy to have any cards of his at this point. I might find myself in your shoes one day soon.

I agree with other people on here as I would trade vintage for vintage and modern for modern. However, it is really what brings you enjoyment. It is a personal hobby after all.

Do they have case breaks for SSP and if they do have you ever tried to get in on one?

Tere1071

When I got rid of my original Clemente collection back in 1991, I was single and prices were, well, cheaper. For example I bought my rookie which I graded in vg-ex condition for $ 6.50 back in 1977. I also had lots of the odd ball and hard to get items as well; there is no way I could ever have that collection back today as prices have skyrocketed and there are other priorities. When I began collecting again in 2014 the Clemente's I purchased were generally a far cry from what I did own. Ultimately that connection to those cards isn't as strong as I once experienced though I still hold great admiration for the man.

The Heritage sets are fun and a challenge to complete. In the 70s and 80s I had the good fortune to work at card shows and for a card shop and it was a magical experience. Still, I wasn't able to shell out for 50s and 60s sets even back then, so the Heritage sets are a way of acquiring those styles that I had handfuls here and there, but almost never a complete set. Spending $200 + for a Throwback card invokes a shudder and stiff words from the wife who doesn't see the point in any of this. Thus, I can't keep dipping into the savings; this is why I thought about using the Clemente's that I have, but am not adding to in order to acquire the SSP variations from 09, 10, 12 and 13 in particular. Yes, I know there's a risk as know one truly knows the print run of the SSP cards where it is known that a 62 Sugardale Clemente in unstained, bright condition is truly a rare animal.

mrpeanut39

@swish54 said:
I absolutely would not get rid of any Clemente playing days card for a modern card! Generally speaking, modern stuff takes a huge hit value wise the longer it's out. They don't hold value like a vintage card does, especially an icon like Clemente. Find something else to trade that's newer. In five years, would you rather have a Clemente playing days card or a ssp of Dan Straily who's not even playing anymore because he was released.

fwiw, Dan Straily started for the Marlins today.

swish54

I was talking about him not playing 5 years from now and realizing you traded a HOF'er/Icon for someone who's not playing anymore and was just a meh player.

Tere1071

When I refer to SSP cards, I need the 2009 Jeter logo and the 2010 color plate variations; those aren't going to be cheap now or later as well as higher priced variations. If there are 3 variations of a player, then I want all of them. I hope to have the mini sets, the Bazooka, the non autographed or relic box topper inserts, black border cards- I think you can guess that I just don't want to stop with a 1-500 set. I suppose I could get rid of the Heritage I have and collect Clemente once again, but I would want all of the Topps he appeared on, including all of the test and regional issues, etc. Prices on the other hand... This is why I am pondering concentrating on the Heritage as I promised my wife that I'd keep expenses to a reasonable minimum. Yes, vintage is better than modern and with the wave a wand I'd gladly convert my Heritage sets into original cards. That, will never happen.

tonylags

I am not sure I would trade vintage Clemente for modern either {unless it's low grade, their a dime a dozen} ; but I agree the heritage sets are very cool and offer a challenge to complete. And isn't that's what collecting is all about anyway?