1977 Topps Jim Gideon / Leon Hooten / Dave Johnson / Mark Lemongello Rookie Pitchers #491
Jim Gideon, Leon Hooten, Dave Johnson, Mark Lemongello · Topps · Multi-Player Rookie Card
Player
Jim Gideon, Leon Hooten, Dave Johnson, Mark Lemongello
Set
1977 Topps Baseball
Year
1977
Card #
#491
Condition Grade
PSA 5 (EX). Centering is heavily shifted to the top and slightly to the left. Corners show visible softening and the edges exhibit minor chipping. Surface appears clean of major creases but has general aging.
Category
Multi-Player Rookie Card
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Low. Primarily of interest to set builders or fans of the specific teams/players listed. Not a major 'star' rookie card.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.50 - $2.00
Graded Value
PSA 4: $5-8, PSA 5: $10-15, PSA 6: $18-25
Comparable Sales
Raw copies in similar condition consistently sell for under $2.00 on eBay (plus PWE shipping). PSA 8 copies (much higher quality than this) typically sell for $30-$40.
Description
A classic 1977 Topps multi-player rookie card featuring four young pitchers: Jim Gideon (Twins), Leon Hooten (Blue Jays), Dave Johnson (Mariners), and Mark Lemongello (Astros). The card features the vintage 'ROOKIES' block lettering and the red banner 'PITCHERS' in the top right. All four players are shown in headshots within four distinct quadrants.
Key Features
Includes the rookie appearance of Mark Lemongello, who had a notable short career with the Astros. Representative of the late 70s 'quad-rookie' style from Topps.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence authentic. Correct card stock thickness for 1977 Topps, lack of 'halo' effect around text, and natural cardboard fiber visible on the edges. Not a commonly counterfeited card due to low market value.
Flaws to Note
Significant top-heavy centering issue (OC). Lower left and lower right corners show blunting. Light surface wear and natural tanning of the vintage card stock.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay, COMC, or as part of a bulk vintage lot at a local card show. Given the value, it is best sold as part of a larger set or collection.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card; the cost of grading significantly exceeds the market value. Use high-resolution scans or photos. Best marketed to 1977 Topps set-builders or team collectors for the Mariners, Astros, Twins, or Blue Jays.