1973 Topps Luis Tiant #230
Luis Tiant · Topps · Base
Player
Luis Tiant
Set
1973 Topps Base
Year
1973
Card #
#230
Condition Grade
PSA 3 (VG) to PSA 4 (VG-EX). The card is heavily off-center (O/C) toward the left and top. Softening and rounding are visible on all four corners, particularly the bottom left. There is visible edge chipping and minor surface staining/wax residue potential.
Category
Base
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate. Tiant is a beloved Red Sox figure with a fringe Hall of Fame case, though base cards from 1973 in low-mid grade are common.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$3.00 - $8.00
Graded Value
PSA 3: $12-18, PSA 4: $18-25, PSA 5: $30-40. (Note: Grading costs exceed card value for this specific condition).
Comparable Sales
Recent raw copies in similar 'Very Good' condition have sold for $4-$7 on eBay. Graded PSA 7 copies sell for approximately $65, but this card would not reach that tier due to centering.
Description
A vintage 1973 Topps Luis Tiant #230 featuring the Boston Red Sox pitching legend in a classic fielding pose. The card features the iconic 1973 design with rounded corners on the photo frame and a silhouette pitcher icon in the bottom right. Tiant is shown in his Red Sox home whites with a bright red glove.
Key Features
Features Red Sox legend 'El Tiante'; iconic 1973 Topps photography; highly collectible among Red Sox team set builders and vintage pitching fans.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct card stock texture and thickness for 1973; halftone printing pattern visible under magnification; appropriate 'Topps' brand coloring. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant centering issues (approx 80/20 left-to-right); soft, rounded corners; minor chipping on the right edge; vertical tilt in the centering; overall surface wear consistent with age.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as a Buy It Now with Best Offer) or COMC. Local card shows in the New England area would have higher local demand.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card, as the cost of grading will exceed the market value due to centering and corner wear. List it as 'Vintage Topps Luis Tiant Red Sox' and provide clear photos of the back. Use a penny sleeve and top loader for shipping.