1978 79 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
Are you a hockey fan looking to add some vintage pieces to your collection? Look no further than the 1978-79 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards. These beloved cards have become some of the most sought after in the hobby, with many collectors seeking to complete their sets.
History and Background
O Pee Chee was a Canadian-based company that produced a variety of collectible items, including hockey cards. In 1978, the company released their yearly set of hockey cards, which featured players from the National Hockey League (NHL).
These cards were unique in that they were printed in both English and French, reflecting Canada's bilingualism. The set consisted of 396 cards, with 396 being a checklist card. The cards were sold in wax packs containing 10 cards and a stick of gum.
Card Design
The 1978-79 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards featured a sleek design, with the player's image taking up most of the card. The player's name, team, position, and statistics were listed at the bottom of the card. The card's back featured the player's biographical information, as well as their stats from the previous season.
The cards were printed on a thin card stock, making them susceptible to damage. The cards were also prone to centering issues, with many cards being off-centered or miscut.
Hall of Fame Players
The 1978-79 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards featured many players who would go on to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. These players include:
- Wayne Gretzky - Rookie Card #18
- Mark Messier - Rookie Card #289
- Rod Langway - Rookie Card #47
- Mike Bossy - Card #115
- Bryan Trottier - Card #174
- Dino Ciccarelli - Rookie Card #153
- Grant Fuhr - Rookie Card #181
The Wayne Gretzky rookie card is the most valuable card in the set, with high-grade examples selling for thousands of dollars. The Mark Messier rookie card is also highly sought after by collectors.
Value and Rarity
The value of a 1978-79 O Pee Chee Hockey Card can vary greatly depending on the player and condition of the card. High-grade Wayne Gretzky rookie cards can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, while other cards in the set can be purchased for just a few dollars.
It's important to note that the condition of the card plays a major factor in its value. Cards that are in poor condition, with creases, stains, or other damage, will sell for significantly less than cards in pristine condition.
Conclusion
The 1978-79 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards are a beloved part of hockey card collecting. With their unique bilingual design and inclusion of many Hall of Fame players, these cards remain highly sought after by collectors today. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, adding some of these vintage cards to your collection is sure to bring a smile to any hockey fan's face.