1987 Topps Terry Francona #451
Terry Francona · Topps · Base Card
Player
Terry Francona
Set
1987 Topps Base Set
Year
1987
Card #
#451
Condition Grade
PSA 6 (EX-MT). The centering is shifted left-to-right (approx 65/35). Top-left corner shows visible softening/white. Edges show common factory rough-cut characteristics which are standard for 1987 Topps card stock.
Category
Base Card
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate/Niche. Demand mainly comes from 'set builders' completing the 1987 set, Cubs team collectors, and fans of Francona as a manager.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.25 - $1.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $10-15, PSA 9: $25-35, PSA 10: $150-200. Note: Grading this specific card is generally not cost-effective unless it is a guaranteed Gem Mint 10.
Comparable Sales
Raw copies typically sell for $0.50 to $1.00 in lots or 'pick your card' listings. PSA 9 examples have recently sold for $20-$30. PSA 10s are much rarer due to the sensitivity of the wood borders and can reach over $150.
Description
A classic piece of 1980s baseball history featuring Terry Francona during his tenure with the Chicago Cubs. This card features the iconic 1987 Topps wood-grain border design. The image captures Francona in a batting stance wearing the vintage powder blue and royal blue Cubs road uniform. A must-have for Cubs fans or collectors of the legendary MLB manager.
Key Features
Iconic wood-grain border design of the 1987 Topps set. Features Terry Francona during his playing career long before becoming a 2-time World Series winning manager. Chicago Cubs team logo in circle profile.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence authentic. The card stock is the traditional brown 'cardboard' style used by Topps in 1987. The registration of the Topps logo and wood-grain pattern matches known master sheets. This card is not a target for counterfeiting due to its common availability.
Flaws to Note
Centering is heavy toward the left border. Visible white chip on the top left corner. Slight rough-cut factory edges on the right side. Surface appears clean but typical matte finish from this era often hides micro-dimples.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best suited for eBay as a low-cost 'buy it now' or as part of a player lot. Local card shop bulk bins or COMC for long-term inventory of common cards.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card at its current condition as grading fees far exceed the value. In any listing, mention his success as a manager to attract Red Sox or Guardians fans. Ship via eBay Standard Envelope (PWE) to keep costs low for the buyer.