1977 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
1977 O Pee Chee hockey cards are some of the most sought-after and collectible items in the entire hobby. These cards were produced by the O Pee Chee company in Canada and sold primarily in the United States. They are known for their beautiful designs, high-quality printing, and rarity.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of O Pee Chee, the 1977 set, the key cards, and some tips for collecting these iconic cards.
The History of O Pee Chee
O Pee Chee is a Canadian company that has been producing hockey cards since the 1930s. The company was founded by brothers Ephraim and Israel Orecklin, who began selling gum and candy in the early 1900s. In 1933, they decided to expand their business by producing hockey cards.
Over the years, O Pee Chee gained a reputation for producing high-quality cards with beautiful designs. They also had a habit of producing sets that were smaller than their American counterparts, which made them more collectible.
The 1977 O Pee Chee Set
The 1977 O Pee Chee hockey card set contains a total of 264 cards. The cards are slightly smaller than standard size and are printed on high-quality cardstock. The fronts of the cards feature full-color photos of the players, while the backs contain statistics and biographical information.
Some of the most notable cards in the set include those of Bobby Orr, Wayne Gretzky, and Guy Lafleur. These cards are highly sought-after by collectors and can fetch thousands of dollars in top condition.
The Key Cards in the 1977 O Pee Chee Set
As mentioned earlier, the 1977 O Pee Chee set contains several key cards that are highly sought-after by collectors. Here are a few of the most notable:
Bobby Orr (#100)
Bobby Orr is widely considered one of the greatest players in the history of hockey. His card from the 1977 O Pee Chee set is one of the key cards in the set and is highly sought-after by collectors. In top condition, this card can fetch several thousand dollars.
Wayne Gretzky (#111)
Wayne Gretzky is another hockey legend whose card from the 1977 O Pee Chee set is highly coveted by collectors. In top condition, this card can also fetch several thousand dollars.
Guy Lafleur (#220)
Guy Lafleur is a former Montreal Canadiens player who is considered one of the greatest offensive players in the history of hockey. His card from the 1977 O Pee Chee set is another key card that can be worth several thousand dollars in top condition.
Tips for Collecting 1977 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you're interested in collecting 1977 O Pee Chee hockey cards, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Invest in Graded Cards
Because these cards are so rare and valuable, it's important to protect your investment by purchasing graded cards. These are cards that have been professionally authenticated and graded by independent third-party grading companies.
Some of the most popular grading companies include PSA, SGC, and Beckett. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable grading company to ensure that you're getting a quality product.
Look for Unopened Boxes and Packs
One of the most exciting things about collecting vintage hockey cards is the possibility of finding unopened boxes and packs. These boxes and packs can contain valuable cards that are in top condition.
Of course, unopened boxes and packs are also more expensive than buying individual cards. But if you have the budget for it, they can be a great investment.
Buy From Reputable Dealers
Finally, when purchasing 1977 O Pee Chee hockey cards (or any vintage cards, for that matter), it's important to buy from reputable dealers. Look for dealers who have been in business for a long time and who have a good reputation among collectors.
You can also check online forums and message boards to see what other collectors have to say about a particular dealer. Doing your research beforehand can help you avoid buying counterfeit or damaged cards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 1977 O Pee Chee hockey cards are some of the most valuable and collectible items in the hobby. They are known for their beautiful designs, high-quality printing, and rarity.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, there are many ways to enjoy these iconic cards. Just be sure to protect your investment by purchasing graded cards, looking for unopened boxes and packs, and buying from reputable dealers.