2022 Topps Series 2 Nick Castellanos Short Print Variation #404
Nick Castellanos · Topps · Short Print (SP) Image Variation
Player
Nick Castellanos
Set
2022 Topps Series 2
Year
2022
Card #
404
Condition Grade
PSA 8 (NM-MT) - Centering appears slightly heavy to the right (viewed horizontally). Edges show minor white chipping consistent with retail pack handling.
Category
Short Print (SP) Image Variation
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate - Steady demand from Padres team collectors and player completionists, though market interest in 2022 base-style variations has stabilized.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$5.00 - $12.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $20-25, PSA 9: $35-45, PSA 10: $75-90
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $4.99 to $9.00 plus shipping. PSA 10 copies have historically sold for $65-85 during the peak of the 2022 season.
Description
This is a 2022 Topps Series 2 Nick Castellanos SP Image Variation. Unlike the standard base card which features a batting pose, this short print features Castellanos in a fielding motion in his San Diego Padres uniform. The set commemorates the Topps 75th anniversary with a special foil-stamped logo in the bottom corner. The card features a clean white border and high-gloss finish.
Key Features
Difficult to pull Short Print (SP) variation; features player in Padres uniform despite being known largely for his time with the Reds and Phillies; celebratory Topps 75th anniversary logo; popular 'gimmick' card for team collectors.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct card stock thickness, high-definition printing on the '75' logo, and accurate SD Padres branding. Confidence is High; these SP variations are rarely counterfeited due to specialized foil stamping.
Flaws to Note
Centering is approximately 60/40 favoring the bottom/right edge. Minor chipping is visible on the top-left corner (near the finger). Surface carries a slight glare but appears free of deep scratches.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this card using a 'Buy It Now' with 'Best Offer' format. COMC is a secondary option for long-tail sales to player collectors.
Selling Tips
Grading this card is currently not recommended as the cost of grading ($19-25) exceeds the raw value increase unless it is a guaranteed Gem Mint 10. Use high-quality scans to show the lack of surface scratches. Mention 'SP' and 'Image Variation' prominently in the title.