1979 Topps John James #490
John James · Topps · Base
Player
John James
Set
1979 Topps Baseball (Football set crossover style)
Year
1979
Card #
490
Condition Grade
PSA 6 (EX-MT). The centering is noticeably shifted to the right. Corners show slight softening, and the cardboard stock has characteristic 1970s browning. Surface appears clean without major creases.
Category
Base
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Low/Niche. Primarily sought by Atlanta Falcons team set collectors or specialists focusing on 1979 Topps master sets.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.50 - $2.00
Graded Value
PSA 5: $5-10, PSA 6: $12-18, PSA 7: $25-30
Comparable Sales
Recent raw copies of this card typically sell for $0.99 plus shipping. Graded copies are rare in the market as the value doesn't justify the fee, but PSA 8 examples occasionally reach $30-40.
Description
This 1979 Topps John James #490 features the Atlanta Falcons punter in the classic late 70s design. The back features a dark purple and gold color scheme with a 'Punting Record' statistical table. It includes a charming cartoon at the bottom stating 'John has a pecan farm.'
Key Features
Includes a fun fact about his pecan farm; features full career stats through 1978; 4-time Pro Bowler; classic Topps card stock with no major surface defects.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentic. Features the standard 1979 Topps cardboard stock with appropriate fiber density and the 'PRTD. IN U.S.A.' typeface consistent with the era. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant rightward centering shift (approx 70/30); minor corner wear on the top left; typical age-related toning of the fibrous card stock.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as part of a team lot or set filler), COMC (Check Out My Cards) for long-tail sales, or Sportlots for budget-friendly set completion.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card individually as the cost of grading far exceeds the market value. List it as 'Atlanta Falcons' team interest or as 'Set Filler' to attract collectors finishing the 1979 series. Use a protective penny sleeve and top loader for shipping.