O Pee Chee 1979-80 Hockey Cards
Hockey card collecting has been a popular hobby for many years. It allows fans to connect with their favorite players and teams in a unique way. One of the most sought-after sets of hockey cards is the O Pee Chee 1979-80 collection. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to these iconic cards.
History of O Pee Chee
O Pee Chee was a Canadian confectionery company that began producing hockey cards in 1933. They quickly became popular among children and adults alike. The company was eventually purchased by Topps, an American baseball card company, in 1992.
The 1979-80 set was one of the most successful collections that O Pee Chee ever produced. It included 396 cards, including 66 rookie cards, and featured many of the top players from the NHL.
What Makes the 1979-80 Set So Special?
The 1979-80 O Pee Chee set is special for several reasons. First and foremost, it includes rookie cards for several of the greatest players in NHL history, including Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Ray Bourque. These cards are highly sought-after by collectors and are among the most valuable cards in the set.
Another unique aspect of the 1979-80 set is the design. The cards have a simple yet bold layout, with bright colors and clear player photos. The backs of the cards feature stats and biographical information in both English and French.
Finally, the 1979-80 set is special because it was produced during a time when the NHL was rapidly expanding. Four new teams entered the league in the late 70s and early 80s, and this set includes cards for players on all 21 teams that were in the league at the time.
How to Identify and Value O Pee Chee 1979-80 Cards
Identifying O Pee Chee 1979-80 cards is relatively simple. Each card features the O Pee Chee logo on the front, along with the player's name and team. The back of the card features the O Pee Chee name along with bilingual stats and biographical information.
Valuing O Pee Chee 1979-80 cards is more complicated. Like with any collectible item, the value depends on several factors, including condition, rarity, and demand. The rookie cards of Gretzky, Messier, and Bourque are the most valuable cards in the set, with prices ranging from several hundred dollars to over $10,000 depending on condition.
Other factors that can affect the value of the cards include the team the player was on, the year of the card, and any special features, such as autographs or game-used memorabilia.
Tips for Collecting O Pee Chee 1979-80 Cards
If you're interested in collecting O Pee Chee 1979-80 cards, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, be prepared to spend some money. As mentioned earlier, the rookie cards of Gretzky, Messier, and Bourque are among the most valuable cards in the set, and even the less valuable cards can be expensive in good condition.
Another tip is to be patient. It may take some time to find the cards you're looking for, especially if you're trying to complete a full set. Don't be afraid to check online marketplaces or reach out to other collectors for help.
Finally, if you're serious about collecting O Pee Chee 1979-80 cards, consider investing in protective sleeves or cases to keep your cards in good condition. The better the condition of your cards, the more valuable they will be.
Conclusion
The 1979-80 O Pee Chee hockey card set is a true classic. It includes rookie cards for some of the greatest players in NHL history and has a unique and timeless design. While collecting these cards can be expensive and time-consuming, the satisfaction of owning a piece of NHL history is well worth it for many fans and collectors.
