2022 Topps Chrome Mike Trout Sepia Refractor #1
Mike Trout · Topps · Parallel (Sepia Refractor)
Player
Mike Trout
Set
2022 Topps Chrome Baseball
Year
2022
Card #
#1
Condition Grade
Estimated PSA 9 (Mint). Left-to-right centering appears slightly heavy on the right (approx 60/40), though top-to-bottom looks strong. Corners and edges appear sharp under visual inspection, but surface scratches are common on Chrome stock and difficult to see without a loupe.
Category
Parallel (Sepia Refractor)
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Strong. Mike Trout remains one of the most collected active players in the hobby. Demand for his parallels is constant, especially for the visually distinct Sepia and Pink refractors.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$8.00 - $15.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $15-20, PSA 9: $25-35, PSA 10: $75-95
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies have settled between $9 and $14 plus shipping. PSA 10 copies have recently sold in the $80 range, while PSA 9s often struggle to exceed the cost of the grading fee plus the card value.
Description
Featured here is a beautiful 2022 Topps Chrome Sepia Refractor of future Hall of Famer Mike Trout. The card features a stunning sepia-toned action shot of Trout tracking down a ball in the outfield, framed by the signature rainbow light refraction of the Chrome Sepia parallel. The iconic 1952-inspired nameplate design at the bottom adds a classic touch to this modern parallel.
Key Features
Features 3x MVP Mike Trout, one of the greatest players of all time. The Sepia Refractor is a retail-exclusive parallel (found in Blaster boxes), making it more sought after than the standard base chrome card. It is also card #1 in the set, a prestigious spot in any checklist.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The 'Topps Chrome' logo has the correct font/depth, and the specific rainbow refraction pattern matching the Sepia finish is consistent with genuine 2022 retail stock. The stock thickness and high-gloss finish are appropriate for the era. Not a high-risk card for counterfeits due to mid-range value.
Flaws to Note
Slight right-heavy centering on the front. Potential for faint surface 'refractor lines' or dimples which are common in 2022 Topps Chrome. The bottom left corner shows a microscopic white speck in the photo, though it may be dust.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this card due to high volume and visibility. COMC is also an excellent option for low-to-mid tier modern refractors to save on shipping costs.
Selling Tips
Due to current grading costs ($19-$25 per card), grading this card is only recommended if you are certain it will reach a PSA 10. For a raw sale, take photos against a dark background to highlight the chrome shine. Use keywords: 'Sepia Refractor', 'Angels', 'Short Print', 'SP'.