2024 Topps Series 2 Ben Rice SSP Golden Mirror Image Variation #439
Ben Rice · Topps (Fanatics) · Short Print (SSP), Golden Mirror Image Variation, Rookie Era Variation
Player
Ben Rice
Set
2024 Topps Series 2
Year
2024
Card #
439
Condition Grade
PSA 9 (Mint) Estimate. The centering favors the left side (approx 65/35). Top-to-bottom centering looks excellent. Corners appear sharp, but the top-left edge shows very minor factory-cut whitening consistent with modern Topps stock.
Category
Short Print (SSP), Golden Mirror Image Variation, Rookie Era Variation
Manufacturer
Topps (Fanatics)
Demand Level
Strong. Ben Rice has significant hobby interest due to the 'Yankee Tax' (high demand for NYY players) and his early MLB power displays. SSP variations for popular rookies are currently trending high in the secondary market.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$40.00 - $75.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $35-50, PSA 9: $75-100, PSA 10: $250-350 (Note: PSA 10 premiums for New York Yankees SSPs are significantly higher)
Comparable Sales
Recent raw sales of similar 2024 Mirror Variations for Yankee rookies (like Austin Wells) have fluctuated between $50 and $90. Higher-tier Yankees SSPs in PSA 10 frequently exceed $300 based on recent eBay Terapeak data.
Description
An extremely rare 2024 Topps Series 2 Ben Rice Golden Mirror Image Variation. Unlike the standard base card, this SSP features a unique action shot of Rice running the bases in his Yankees pinstripes. The reverse features a gold-foil stamped logo indicating its Mirror Variation status. This is a must-have for Yankees team collectors and prospectors tracking Rice's rise as a top catching/first-base talent.
Key Features
Super Short Print (SSP) status; Golden Mirror Variation; Debut-year card for a high-profile New York Yankees prospect; High scarcity compared to base cards (estimated print run is very low).
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Correct card stock thickness; Gold 'Topps 75' diamond logo present; crisp typography and high-resolution photo typical of Fanatics-era production; code on the back of the card ends in a specific number (likely #784 for variations) different from the base card.
Flaws to Note
Centering is slightly off-center to the left; minor white specking on the top-left corner tip; typical light surface micro-scratching common on high-gloss 2024 Topps coatings.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Auction) is recommended to let Yankee collectors bid the price up, or fixed-price with 'Best Offer' enabled to capture immediate interest. Specialized Facebook groups like 'Yankees Card Collectors' are also excellent venues.
Selling Tips
Do not grade if you want a fast flip, as the player is currently 'hot.' If seeking a long-term investment, PSA grading is essential for SSPs. Use keywords like 'SSP', 'Golden Mirror', 'Case Hit', and 'Yankees' in the title. Ship in a penny sleeve, top-loader, and bubble mailer with tracking.