Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As I am a part of the eBay Partner Network and other programs, if you follow these links and make a purchase, I’ll receive commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
As the clock is winding down on 2024, Topps baseball cards are still abuzz, as they have been all year.
From Paul Skenes to the MVP Buyback program, there’s a lot to unravel. Whether you’re hunting down the latest debut patches or curious about upcoming release dates, the hobby continues to deliver on the intrigue.
Here are five burning questions collectors are asking right now.
1. Is Paul Skenes in the 2024 Topps Complete Set?
Paul Skenes is not included in the 2024 Topps Baseball Complete Factory Set. This is because the checklist is made up of 700 base cards from Series 1 and Series 2. Skenes’ rookie card, numbered US100, is part of the 2024 Topps Update Series, released separately and not included in the complete factory set. Therefore, to obtain Paul Skenes’ rookie card, you’ll need to purchase packs or boxes of the 2024 Topps Update Series.
2. When does the Topps MVP Buyback end?
The 2024 program is scheduled to conclude on January 30, 2025, based on this from Topps Ripped:
Mail your package, along with your completed submission form, to Dave & Adams Card World, Steel City Collectibles, or Midwest Cards by January 30th, 2025. You are responsible for paying for shipping / handling costs. All submissions must only include eligible cards for this buyback program.
However, some participating retailers may offer extended redemption periods. For example, Great American Sports Cards indicates that their program runs through the end of February 2025.
To ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to redeem your cards, it’s advisable to check with your local participating hobby shop for their specific deadlines.For a comprehensive list of participating retailers and additional details about the program, you can visit the official Topps MVP Buyback Program page.
3. When is the Topps Series 1 2025 release date?
The 2025 Topps Series 1 Baseball set is anticipated to be released in February 2025. While an exact date hasn’t been officially confirmed by Topps, some retailers, such as Midwest Cards, have listed an expected release date of February 21, 2025, for hobby boxes.
Additionally, Beckett’s sports card release calendar notes that 2025 Topps Series 1 Baseball is expected to follow shortly after the late 2024 release of Topps Diamond Icons Baseball.
Please note that release dates are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check with official Topps announcements or authorized retailers for the most current information.
4. What Topps packs have debut patches?
Topps Debut Patch Autos can be found in packs of 2024 Topps Chrome Update Series. This set includes RDPA cards for players who made their MLB debuts between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024. Notable rookies such as Paul Skenes, Elly De La Cruz, and Jackson Holliday are featured.
5. Does Topps Make NFL Cards?
Yes, Topps has re-entered the football card market. After a hiatus, Topps has released new football card products, including the Topps Composite set, which debuted on August 30, 2024. This set features various designs from Topps’ iconic brands, such as Topps Chrome, Chrome Black, Topps Finest, and others. Notably, these cards do not display NFL team logos, focusing instead on player imagery.
Additionally, Topps has been producing Topps Now football cards, which highlight significant moments and players, particularly following events like the NFL Draft. These cards are produced in limited print runs and are available for a short time, catering to both collectors and fans.
It’s important to note that while Topps is producing football cards again, the absence of official NFL team logos indicates that these products are not fully licensed by the NFL. This development comes amid significant changes in the sports trading card industry, including licensing agreements and market dynamics. Collectors should stay informed about these shifts, as they can influence the availability and design of trading card products.
