1979 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Card Set
The 1979 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set is a must-have for any serious collector of vintage hockey cards. This set is particularly special because it features the rookie cards of several Hall of Famers, including Wayne Gretzky, Ray Bourque, and Michel Goulet. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the 1979 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set, including its history, key players, and what to look for when buying or selling these cards.
History of the 1979 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Card Set
The O-Pee-Chee company has been producing hockey cards since the early 1900s, and the 1979 set was one of the company's most successful releases. The set consists of 396 cards, including 66 rookies, and was released in two series. The first series featured cards 1-264, while the second series included cards 265-396. The set also included a checklist card, which is highly sought after by collectors.
The cards themselves feature bright colors and bold designs, with the player's photo on the front and statistics on the back. The cards were printed on high-quality card stock, which has helped them to stand the test of time.
Key Players in the Set
As previously mentioned, the 1979 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set includes the rookie cards of several Hall of Famers. Let's take a closer look at some of the key players:
- Wayne Gretzky (#18) - Widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, Gretzky's rookie card is the most valuable in the set.
- Ray Bourque (#140) - A 19-time All-Star and five-time Norris Trophy winner, Bourque's rookie card is highly coveted by collectors.
- Mike Gartner (#323) - A seven-time All-Star and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, Gartner's rookie card is also highly sought after.
- Mark Messier (#289) - Another member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, Messier's rookie card is another valuable card in the set.
- Mike Krushelnyski (#280) - Krushelnyski's rookie card may not be as valuable as some of the others on this list, but it is still a popular card among collectors.
In addition to these players, the set also includes rookie cards of several other notable players, including Glenn Anderson, Dale Hunter, and Warren Miller.
What to Look for When Buying or Selling
If you are looking to buy or sell cards from the 1979 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, condition is key when it comes to determining the value of a card. Cards that are in excellent condition, with sharp corners and no creases or stains, will be worth significantly more than cards that are in poor condition. It's also important to watch out for counterfeit cards, as they can be very convincing and can be difficult to spot.
When buying or selling cards, it's also important to do your research and make sure that you are getting a fair price. Prices for cards can vary widely depending on their condition and rarity, so it's important to compare prices from different sellers and to consult price guides or online forums before making a purchase or sale.
Conclusion
The 1979 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set is a true collector's item, featuring some of the greatest players in NHL history. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new fan, this set is definitely worth adding to your collection. Just remember to keep an eye out for condition and authenticity when buying or selling, and to do your research to ensure that you are getting a fair price.