1969-70 Topps Cazzie Russell #3 Tall Boy
Cazzie Russell · Topps (T.C.G. PRTD. IN U.S.A.) · Base / Tall Boy
Player
Cazzie Russell
Set
1969-70 Topps Basketball Tall Boys
Year
1969
Card #
3
Condition Grade
PSA 2 (Good) or Authentic. Note: Significant creasing top left, rounded corners, surface staining, and centering issues.
Category
Base / Tall Boy
Manufacturer
Topps (T.C.G. PRTD. IN U.S.A.)
Demand Level
Moderate. Vintage basketball 'Tall Boys' are highly collectible, but Cazzie Russell is a secondary star compared to Lew Alcindor or Pete Maravich in this era.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$5.00 - $12.00
Graded Value
PSA 1: $10-15, PSA 2: $20-30, PSA 3: $35-50
Comparable Sales
Recent raw sales for low-grade Cazzie Russell Tall Boys range from $8 to $15. PSA 3-4 examples often sell for $45-$65.
Description
Authentic vintage 1969-70 Topps Cazzie Russell #3. This is the 'Tall Boy' oversized card known for its unique 2-1/2 by 4-11/16 inch dimensions. The card reverse features statistical totals for the 66-67 through 68-69 seasons and a humorous cartoon regarding his defensive skills. Red and blue ink on cream-colored cardstock.
Key Features
Iconic 'Tall Boy' format; early Cazzie Russell card from his New York Knicks era; part of Topps' first major basketball set since 1957.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct coarse cardstock texture; Topps copyright 'T.C.G. PRTD. IN U.S.A.' in small vertical print; period-accurate cartoon ink bleed. Authenticity Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
A major corner crease is visible on the top left; substantial corner rounding on all four edges; significant surface wear/soiling on the reverse; centering is shifted toward the top edge.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best venue for this condition. The cost of professional grading (PSA/SGC) currently exceeds the card value in this specific condition.
Selling Tips
In the listing title, use keywords like 'Vintage Basketball', 'Tall Boy', and 'Knicks'. Take a clear photo of the front of the card to show remaining eye appeal. Ship in a 'Tall Boy' size card saver or top loader; standard size holders will not fit this card.