1972-73 Topps Austin Carr #34
Austin Carr · Topps · Base Card / Second Year
Player
Austin Carr
Set
1972-73 Topps Basketball
Year
1972
Card #
34
Condition Grade
PSA 3 (VG) - Centering is significantly off-top and left; corners show visible rounding and softening; edges have minor chipping; surface appears to have light handling wear/soiling.
Category
Base Card / Second Year
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate - Strong regional demand among Cleveland Cavaliers collectors and vintage basketball set builders. Carr's status as a broadcaster and franchise legend keeps his vintage items moving steadily.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$3.00 - $8.00
Graded Value
PSA 3: $12-$18; PSA 4: $22-$30; PSA 5: $40-$55
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar mid-low grade condition range from $4.00 to $9.00. PSA 6 (EX-MT) copies generally sell for $60-$80, but this specific card's centering would prevent it from reaching that tier.
Description
This 1972-73 Topps Austin Carr card features a sharp action shot of 'Mr. Cavalier' in his iconic red and gold Cleveland uniform. The card uses the distinct 72-73 Topps design with a vertical 'CAVALIERS' team name in orange block letters on the right side and a basketball icon indicating his position as a Guard. The purple borders and vibrant blue background are classic elements of this psychedelic-era sports card set.
Key Features
Features Cleveland Cavaliers legend Austin Carr in his second-year card appearance. Carr was the #1 overall pick in 1971 and remains one of the most beloved figures in Cavs history. The 1972 Topps set is highly collectible for its bold, colorful 1970s aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Authenticity confidence is High. The grain of the cardstock, the specific color halftone pattern used by Topps in the early 1970s, and the natural age-toning on the reverse are all consistent with a genuine 1972 issue. This card is not frequently counterfeited due to its moderate market value.
Flaws to Note
The card is significantly off-center toward the top and left borders. The corners are rounded with visible white cardstock showing (loss of original sharp points). There is possible light staining or surface wear in the white border areas typical of vintage cards stored without protection.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this card, specifically utilizing a low starting bid auction or 'Buy It Now' with 'Best Offer' enabled. It would also sell well at local card shows in the Ohio area.
Selling Tips
Due to the centering and corner wear, grading this card would likely result in a net loss after fees. Sell it 'Raw' (ungraded). Use high-resolution scans or photos on a dark background to highlight the white borders. Keywords: Mr. Cavalier, Notre Dame, Vintage Basketball, Cleveland Cavs.