1974 75 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you are a vintage hockey card collector, one set that you cannot miss is the 1974-75 O-Pee-Chee (OPC) hockey cards. Released in Canada by the OPC company in 1974, these cards are highly valued by collectors for their high-quality design, historical significance, and rarity.
History of the Set
The 1974-75 OPC hockey card set was the company's eleventh hockey card release since it took over the Canadian hockey card market from Topps in 1965. The set had a total of 396 cards, which were printed on high-quality stock with glossy fronts and backs. The cards measured 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches, which is the standard size for hockey cards.
The cards were sold primarily in Canada, but they were also distributed in the United States. They were packaged in wax packs, which contained ten cards and a piece of gum. The cost of each pack was five cents, which made them widely affordable for kids at the time.
Key Cards in the Set
The 1974-75 OPC hockey card set includes several key cards that are highly sought after by collectors. One of the most valuable cards in the set is the #280 Bobby Orr card. Orr was one of the best hockey players of all time, and his OPC card is considered the most valuable card in the set.
Other valuable cards in the set include the #75 Ken Dryden rookie card, the #123 Phil Esposito card, and the #195 Guy Lafleur rookie card. These cards are highly valued because they feature some of the best hockey players of the time.
Rarity and Condition
The 1974-75 OPC hockey card set is considered rare because it was printed in smaller quantities than other OPC sets from the same era. The cards were also widely collected and traded, which means that many of them have been lost or damaged over time.
The condition of the cards is also a major factor in their value. The cards were printed on high-quality stock, which means that they are less likely to have been damaged by wear and tear. However, many of the cards in the set were poorly cut, which can affect their overall condition.
Collecting and Valuing the Set
If you are interested in collecting the 1974-75 OPC hockey card set, there are several things to keep in mind. First, you should aim to collect the complete set of 396 cards, which can be a challenge due to the rarity of some cards.
You should also pay attention to the condition of the cards. Cards that are in excellent condition, with sharp corners and no creases or stains, are worth more than cards that are damaged or worn. The value of the cards also varies depending on the player featured on the card, with key cards like the Bobby Orr and Ken Dryden rookie cards being the most valuable.
Conclusion
The 1974-75 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set is a must-have for vintage hockey card collectors. With its high-quality design, historical significance, and rarity, the set is highly valued by collectors all over the world. If you are interested in collecting these cards, be sure to keep an eye out for key cards, pay attention to their condition, and understand their value in the market.