1998 Bowman Ryan Dempster #179 - Signed / Autographed
Ryan Dempster · Topps (Bowman Brand) · Base Card with In-Person/Aftermarket Autograph
Player
Ryan Dempster
Set
1998 Bowman Base
Year
1998
Card #
#179
Condition Grade
Estimated PSA 7 (Near Mint) due to edge chipping on black borders; Signature unauthenticated.
Category
Base Card with In-Person/Aftermarket Autograph
Manufacturer
Topps (Bowman Brand)
Demand Level
Low/Niche. Ryan Dempster has a solid fan base from his Cubs and Marlins years, but as a non-Hall of Famer, demand is mostly limited to team collectors or autograph seekers.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$5.00 - $15.00 (Value is primarily in the autograph)
Graded Value
PSA 8 (Auto Grade Only): $25-40; PSA 9 (Auto Grade Only): $40-60; Raw: $5-10.
Comparable Sales
Raw un-signed versions of this card sell for $0.50-$1.00. Authenticated signed 1998 Bowman cards for similar-tier pitchers typically sell for $10 to $20.
Description
This 1998 Bowman Ryan Dempster card features the Florida Marlins pitcher in his mid-90s pinstripe uniform. The card has a distinct black and red border design characteristic of the 1998 set. It features a bold, black ink hand-signed autograph across the bottom half of the card. The signature is loopy and characteristic of Dempster's typical signing style.
Key Features
Hand-signed autograph by 2x All-Star and World Series Champion Ryan Dempster. Early career card (Note: his RC is technically 1995/1996, but this is a key early Marlins era card).
Authenticity Indicators
The signature matches known examples of Ryan Dempster's autograph (the sweeping 'R' and 'D' loops). Card stock and gold foil 'Bowman' logo appear consistent with 1998 Topps production. Confidence: High on card, Medium on signature until authenticated.
Flaws to Note
Visible white chipping on the bottom right and left edges of the black border. The autograph is an 'aftermarket' or 'in-person' signature, meaning it did not come from the pack with a certificate of authenticity.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this card using a 'Buy It Now' format with 'Best Offer' enabled to attract Marlins or Cubs fans.
Selling Tips
Do not grade the card itself, as the condition is mid-grade. If you wish to increase value, send it to PSA/DNA or JSA for 'Authentication Only' to verify the signature. List with keywords like 'Marlins', 'Cubs', and 'Signed'.