1988 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards Value
For many hockey fans, collecting vintage cards is a beloved pastime. One of the most popular sets is the 1988 O Pee Chee (OPC) hockey card set, which features some of the biggest names in the sport. But what is the value of these cards? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 1988 OPC hockey card set and explore what makes these cards so special.
What Are 1988 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards?
The 1988 O Pee Chee hockey card set is a collection of 264 cards featuring some of the biggest names in the National Hockey League (NHL). Each card showcases a player's photo, along with their vital statistics and career highlights. The set is known for its sharp, colorful design and high-quality printing.
Some of the most notable players featured in the 1988 OPC set include Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Mark Messier. These cards are particularly sought after by collectors, as they represent some of the biggest stars of the era.
One reason the 1988 OPC set is so beloved by collectors is because of its rarity. Unlike modern sets that are printed in the millions, the OPC cards were produced in much smaller runs. This means that finding a complete set, or even individual cards, can be a challenge.
What Is the Value of 1988 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards?
So, what are 1988 O Pee Chee hockey cards worth? The value of these cards depends on a variety of factors, including the rarity of the card, the player featured on the card, and the condition of the card.
According to Beckett, a leading authority on sports card values, the most valuable card in the 1988 OPC set is the Wayne Gretzky card (#120). This card is worth around $25 in mint condition.
Other valuable cards in the set include the Mario Lemieux (#196) and Mark Messier (#166) cards, which are worth around $10 each in mint condition.
Of course, the value of these cards can fluctuate based on a variety of factors. Cards that are in pristine condition, with sharp corners and no creases or dings, will be worth more than cards that show signs of wear and tear. Additionally, cards that are professionally graded by a third-party grading company, such as PSA or Beckett, will also be worth more than ungraded cards.
How to Determine the Condition of a 1988 O Pee Chee Hockey Card
If you're looking to buy or sell 1988 OPC hockey cards, it's important to be able to accurately determine the condition of the cards. Here are some key factors to look for:
- Corners: Are the corners sharp and square, or are they soft and rounded?
- Edges: Are the edges clean and free of chipping, or are they rough and damaged?
- Centering: Is the image on the card centered, or is it off-center?
- Surface: Is the surface of the card free of scratches and creases, or does it show signs of wear and tear?
By carefully examining these factors, you can get a good idea of the condition of a card, and therefore its value.
Where to Buy and Sell 1988 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you're looking to buy or sell 1988 OPC hockey cards, there are a variety of options available. One popular option is online auction sites like eBay, where collectors can buy and sell cards directly with each other.
Other options include online marketplaces, like COMC (Check Out My Cards), and sports card dealers who specialize in vintage cards. When buying cards online, it's important to carefully examine the seller's feedback and reputation to ensure that you're dealing with a reputable seller.
Conclusion
The 1988 O Pee Chee hockey card set is a beloved collection of cards featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. While the value of these cards can vary based on a variety of factors, they remain a treasured piece of hockey history for many collectors. If you're looking to buy or sell these cards, be sure to carefully examine their condition and work with reputable sellers to ensure a fair deal.
