1981 Topps Pete Rose #180
Pete Rose · Topps · Base
Player
Pete Rose
Set
1981 Topps Base
Year
1981
Card #
#180
Condition Grade
PSA 4 (VG-EX) to PSA 5 (EX)
Category
Base
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$3.00 - $8.00
Graded Value
PSA 4: $10-15, PSA 5: $18-25, PSA 6: $35-45
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar mid-grade condition range from $4.00 to $7.00 plus shipping. PSA 8 copies typically sell for $60-80, but this specific card's condition would not reach that tier.
Description
A classic 1981 Topps Pete Rose featuring the 'Charlie Hustle' in the Cincinnati Reds dugout. The card features the iconic 1981 design with the team name in stylized script at the bottom left and the player's position in a baseball icon at the top right. Rose is shown wearing the distinct powder blue Reds road jersey of the era.
Key Features
Features MLB's all-time hit leader; highly recognizable 1981 Topps design; key veteran star card from the early 80s; Rose's cards remain highly collectible despite his HOF status due to his legendary playing career.
Authenticity Indicators
Authenticity Confidence: High. The cardboard stock is the correct cream/gray color for 1981 Topps. The 'dot matrix' printing pattern in the photo is consistent with period-correct lithography. This card is rarely counterfeited due to its high print volume and modest value.
Flaws to Note
The card exhibits significant centering issues, heavily tilted toward the right border (OC). Surface wear is visible with a noticeable brown stain or 'wax dot' at the top center border. Edges show moderate chipping/whiteness, and the bottom right corner is slightly rounded.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for individual sales), COMC (good for bulk processing vintage), or local card shows in the Midwest/Ohio area where Reds memorabilia is strongly sought.
Selling Tips
Due to the centering and surface marks, grading is not recommended as the cost of grading will exceed the card's value. List as 'Raw VG-EX' and ensure high-resolution photos of the edges. Use keywords like 'Charlie Hustle' and 'Big Red Machine' to attract vintage collectors.