2024 Topps Series 2 Stars of MLB Shota Imanaga #SMLB-42
Shota Imanaga · Topps · Insert/Rookie Year
Player
Shota Imanaga
Set
2024 Topps Series 2 Stars of MLB
Year
2024
Card #
#SMLB-42
Condition Grade
PSA 9 (Mint) candidate. Centering appears slightly heavy on the right; corners look sharp in image, but surface handling without a sleeve may cause micro-scratches.
Category
Insert/Rookie Year
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate. Imanaga is a popular rookie, but this is a high-print-run retail insert. Demand is strongest among Cubs team collectors and set builders.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$1.00 - $3.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $8-12, PSA 9: $15-20, PSA 10: $35-50
Comparable Sales
Recent raw sales on eBay range from $0.99 to $2.50 plus shipping. PSA 10 copies have recently settled in the $30-$45 range depending on the week's performance.
Description
Features Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga in his rookie season. The card boasts the iconic 'Stars of MLB' design with a rainbow foil finish, star patterns, and a vibrant red and blue color splash background. This is a retail-exclusive insert that has become a staple of the 2024 Topps flagship product.
Key Features
Rookie year insert of a highly popular Japanese import. Features Shota Imanaga in his Chicago Cubs home pinstripe uniform with the 'Stars of MLB' holographic foil treatment.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The foil refraction pattern and Topps logo placement are consistent with 2024 retail product. This specific insert is not common to counterfeit due to its high print volume.
Flaws to Note
Card is being held with bare fingers which can transfer oils to the chrome-like surface. Centering on the front appears slightly favorited to the right edge. Potential for minor surface scratches common with retail foil inserts.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as a PWE/Standard Envelope listing), COMC, or local card show dollar bins. Best sold as part of a 'lot' of other Imanaga rookies to maximize shipping value.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card unless you are certain it is a PSA 10, as the grading fee will exceed the card's value. Use 'eBay Standard Envelope' for shipping to keep costs under $1.00. Immediately place the card in a penny sleeve and top loader to prevent surface damage.