Official Product Guide

Introduction

This guide provides comprehensive information regarding the 1959 Topps #571 Warren Spahn All-Star Braves baseball card. It covers identification, care, historical context, and specifications to assist collectors in understanding and preserving this vintage collectible.

Card Identification

The 1959 Topps baseball card set is notable for its vibrant design and inclusion of many star players. Card #571 features Warren Spahn, a legendary left-handed pitcher for the Milwaukee Braves, as an All-Star selection.

• Year: 1959
• Manufacturer: Topps
• Card Number: #571
• Player: Warren Spahn
• Team: Milwaukee Braves (All-Star selection)
• Front Design: Features a portrait of Warren Spahn within a shield-like frame, set against a red background with "The Sporting News" banner at the top. Player's name and position are at the bottom.
• Back Design: Includes card number, player name, position, and a brief biographical/statistical blurb, often with a cartoon illustration.

Condition and Preservation

The condition of a vintage baseball card significantly impacts its value and longevity. Proper handling and storage are crucial for preservation.

Assessing Condition

Key factors in assessing a card's condition include:

• Corners: Sharp, crisp corners indicate higher condition. Rounded or creased corners reduce grade.
• Edges: Smooth, clean edges are preferred. Fraying, chipping, or nicks detract from condition.
• Centering: The image should be centered evenly within the card borders. Off-centering reduces grade.
• Surface: Look for creases, scratches, print defects, or loss of gloss. A clean, unblemished surface is ideal.
• Originality: Ensure the card has not been altered (trimmed, recolored, etc.).

Care and Storage

To protect your card from damage:

• Handling: Always handle the card by its edges to avoid transferring oils or dirt from your fingers to the surface.
• Protective Sleeves: Store the card in a soft sleeve (penny sleeve) first, then place it in a rigid top-loader or semi-rigid holder.
• Storage Boxes: Keep sleeved and top-loaded cards in acid-free storage boxes designed for trading cards.
• Environment: Store cards in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, which can cause fading, warping, or mold.
• Graded Cards: If the card is professionally graded (e.g., by PSA, SGC, Beckett), it will be encapsulated in a tamper-evident, protective slab. Handle the slab carefully to avoid scratches or cracks.

Historical Context: Warren Spahn and the 1959 Topps Set

Warren Spahn (1921-2003) was one of baseball's most dominant left-handed pitchers. He played the majority of his career with the Boston / Milwaukee Braves, winning 363 games, the most by any left-hander in MLB history. He was an All-Star 17 times and won the Cy Young Award in 1957.

The 1959 Topps set is a classic, featuring 572 cards. It is known for its distinctive "Sporting News" banner on the front of many cards and its colorful design. Key rookies and stars from this era are highly sought after by collectors.

Specifications

Troubleshooting and Authenticity

While a vintage card does not have "operating" issues, concerns may arise regarding its authenticity or condition assessment.

• Authenticity Concerns: If you suspect a card is a reprint or counterfeit, compare it meticulously with known authentic examples. Pay attention to print quality, card stock, and dimensions. Consult reputable online resources or experienced collectors.
• Condition Discrepancies: If the card's condition appears different from its description or grading, consider seeking a second opinion from a professional grading service or an expert appraiser.
• Damage During Shipping: If the card arrives damaged, document the damage with photographs and contact the seller immediately.

Support and Further Information

For additional information or support regarding this specific card or vintage collectibles in general, consider the following resources:

• Professional Grading Services: Companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation), and Beckett Grading Services (BGS) offer authentication and grading services for vintage cards.
• Reputable Dealers and Auction Houses: Established dealers and auction houses specializing in vintage sports memorabilia can provide expert opinions and facilitate transactions.
• Online Collector Forums and Databases: Many online communities and databases exist where collectors share knowledge and verify card details.
• Seller Contact: For issues related to your purchase, contact the seller directly. For this specific item, the seller is Kit Young Cards.

Note: As a vintage collectible, this item typically does not come with a manufacturer's warranty. Its value is primarily determined by its authenticity, condition, and market demand.