1988 Topps John Candelaria #474
John Candelaria · Topps · Base
Player
John Candelaria
Set
1988 Topps Baseball
Year
1988
Card #
#474
Condition Grade
PSA 5 (EX) to 6 (EX-MT). While the top right corner appears relatively sharp in the crop, the top edge shows minor chipping and horizontal centering is shifted toward the right (approximately 65/35).
Category
Base
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Low. Demand is limited to team collectors or those completing the 1988 Topps master set.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.10 - $0.50
Graded Value
PSA 8: $5-10; PSA 9: $15-25; PSA 10: $60-80. Note: Grading costs significantly exceed the value of this card unless it is a guaranteed Gem Mint 10.
Comparable Sales
Raw copies typically sell for pennies in bulk lots. Recent individual sales for common cards from this set in high grade (PSA 10) range from $50-$90, but lower grades (PSA 8 or below) rarely sell for more than the cost of shipping.
Description
A classic 1988 Topps base card featuring left-handed pitcher John 'The Candy Man' Candelaria in his Montreal Expos uniform. The design features the iconic 1988 diagonal stripe nameplate at the bottom and a colored border with dot-pattern accents. Candelaria is pictured wearing a blue Expos starter jacket and team cap.
Key Features
Includes a notable veteran pitcher and 1979 World Series champion in the Expos uniform; features the distinctive 1980s Topps design aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Authenticity confidence is High. This card is from the 'Junk Wax' era (mass-produced) and is not a target for counterfeiting. Correct card stock thickness and period-accurate color saturation are visible.
Flaws to Note
The card is off-center toward the right border. There is visible white chipping along the top edge against the orange border. Potential surface wear and typical 'junk wax' era printing dots are present.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best sold in bulk lots on eBay, or as a 'common' filler in COMC. Local card shop 'dollar' or 'quarter' bins are also appropriate.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card, as the fees will far outweigh the market value. It is best used as a set filler or added to a Montreal Expos team lot to increase attractiveness to specific fans. If listing online, use a clear sleeve and top loader for protection.