1983 84 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you grew up in the 80s, then you definitely knew the importance of collecting sports cards. And if you were a hockey fan, chances are that you had a collection of O Pee Chee hockey cards. One of the most popular sets of the time was the 1983-84 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about this iconic collection of hockey cards.
What are O Pee Chee Hockey Cards?
O Pee Chee (OPC) is a Canadian sports card manufacturer that has been around since the early 1900s. They are most well-known for producing NHL hockey cards, and their cards are highly sought after by collectors today. OPC hockey cards were first produced in 1968, and they quickly became popular among hockey fans and collectors.
The 1983-84 O Pee Chee Hockey Card Set
The 1983-84 OPC set was a 396-card set that featured players from all 21 NHL teams. The cards were made from a thicker card stock than previous years, and they also had a glossier finish. The cards were sold in wax packs, which contained 15 cards and a stick of gum.
One of the most notable cards in the set is the rookie card of Steve Yzerman, who would go on to be one of the greatest players in NHL history. Other notable rookies in the set include Pat Verbeek, Tom Barrasso, and Cam Neely.
Card Design and Features
The design of the cards featured the player's photo on the front, along with their name, team logo, and position. The back of the cards had the player's stats from the previous season, as well as a short bio and some career highlights. The cards were bilingual, with English and French text on both sides.
One unique feature of the set was the "1,000-Point Club" cards, which featured players who had scored 1,000 or more points in their NHL careers. There were also "Record Breaker" cards that celebrated players who had set new records during the previous season.
Value and Rarity
The 1983-84 OPC hockey card set is considered to be one of the most valuable and sought after sets from the 80s. This is due in part to the popularity of the rookies in the set, as well as the overall design and quality of the cards. The Steve Yzerman rookie card alone can sell for thousands of dollars in near-mint condition.
However, like many sports cards from this era, the value of the cards is heavily dependent on their condition. Cards that are in excellent condition and have been professionally graded will fetch the highest prices. Cards with creases, dings, or other damage will be worth significantly less.
Where to Find 1983-84 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you want to start collecting 1983-84 O Pee Chee hockey cards, there are a few places you can look. The first place to check is your local card shop or sports memorabilia store. They may have some packs or individual cards in stock, or they may be able to order them for you.
You can also find these cards for sale at online auction sites like eBay or through online sports card dealers. However, be sure to do your research and only buy from reputable sellers to ensure that you're getting authentic cards in the condition described.
Conclusion
The 1983-84 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards are an iconic set of sports cards that are highly sought after by collectors today. With their glossy finish, bilingual design, and notable rookies, these cards capture the spirit of hockey in the 80s. Whether you're a long-time collector or just getting started, adding some 1983-84 O Pee Chee hockey cards to your collection is sure to bring a smile to your face.
