1972-73 Topps NHL Scoring Leaders Phil Esposito / Bobby Orr / Jean Ratelle #1
Phil Esposito, Bobby Orr, Jean Ratelle · Topps · Base / Leader Insert / Multi-Player
Player
Phil Esposito, Bobby Orr, Jean Ratelle
Set
1972-73 Topps NHL (Leader Subset)
Year
1972
Card #
#1
Condition Grade
PSA 3 (VG) - Centering is heavily shifted left-to-right; corners show visible softening and rounding, particularly bottom right; surface shows minor edge wear and light chipping on the black border areas.
Category
Base / Leader Insert / Multi-Player
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate - Strong. Bobby Orr collectors are very dedicated, and his leader cards are popular affordable alternatives to his base cards.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$15.00 - $30.00
Graded Value
PSA 2: $15-20, PSA 3: $25-35, PSA 4: $45-60
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar 'VG' condition range from $18 to $28. PSA 5 (EX) copies generally reach the $80-100 range, but this specific copy lacks the centering to achieve that grade.
Description
An iconic 1972-73 Topps NHL Leader card featuring three Hockey Hall of Famers. The card showcases Phil Esposito (Boston Bruins), Bobby Orr (Boston Bruins), and Jean Ratelle (New York Rangers) as the 1971-72 season's top scorers. It features the classic wood-grain/tan outer border with a black interior frame and bold yellow numbering. A must-have for Bruins fans and vintage HOF collectors.
Key Features
Features two of the greatest Boston Bruins in history, including the legendary Bobby Orr. Being card #1 in the set, it was often prone to damage from rubber bands. All three players on the card are inducted members of the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct vintage card stock thickness and color. The 'dot matrix' print pattern is consistent with early 70s Topps printing. High confidence in authenticity; while Bobby Orr cards are faked, this specific leaderboard card is rarely targeted by counterfeiters due to its mid-range value.
Flaws to Note
Obvious left-to-right centering issues (very skinny left border). Significant corner wear with white showing through the card stock. Frequent chipping along the black inner borders which is common for this high-ink set. Light surface scuffing visible in the black area near the text.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this specific card using a 'Buy It Now' with 'Best Offer' enabled. It would also perform well at a regional sports card show in the New England area.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card; the centering and corner wear will result in a low grade that won't cover the grading fees. Clearly photograph the back of the card to show it has no paper loss or tape marks. Use keywords like 'Hall of Fame', 'Bruins', and 'Vintage Hockey'.