2024 Topps Series 2 Shohei Ohtani Stars of MLB Chrome Parallel #SMLB-45
Shohei Ohtani · Topps · Insert, Chrome Parallel, Refractor
Player
Shohei Ohtani
Set
2024 Topps Series 2 Stars of MLB Chrome
Year
2024
Card #
#SMLB-45
Condition Grade
PSA 9 (Mint) - The card appears well-centered with sharp corners. However, Chrome surfaces are prone to micro-scratching; without a macro lens inspection, a PSA 9 is a safe conservative estimate.
Category
Insert, Chrome Parallel, Refractor
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Hot - Anything Ohtani in a Dodgers uniform is currently seeing maximum market velocity, especially Chrome parallels and refractors.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$5.00 - $12.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $15-20, PSA 9: $30-45, PSA 10: $75-110
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $6 to $15 depending on timing. PSA 10 copies have recently fetched between $80 and $125 during peak interest weeks.
Description
Featured is the 2024 Topps Series 2 Stars of MLB Chrome insert of Shohei Ohtani. This card features a dynamic action shot of Ohtani in his Los Angeles Dodgers uniform with a stunning metallic refractor finish. The design utilizes a 'painting-style' aesthetic with vibrant blue and neon green/yellow accents on the left edge. The back contains player stats and career highlights.
Key Features
First year Topps flagship card featuring Ohtani in a Dodgers uniform. The Chrome version is a retail-exclusive hit that is significantly rarer than the standard paper Stars of MLB inserts.
Authenticity Indicators
High Confidence. The specific 'Topps' logo etching in the top left and the unique texture of the Chrome stock are correct. Topps 2024 security foil on the back should be present. No known major counterfeits exist for this specific insert yet due to its recent release.
Flaws to Note
Possible surface dimples or faint vertical print lines common in 2024 Chrome production. Centering looks slightly heavy toward the bottom edge but remains within 60/40 tolerance for a high grade.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this card to reach the widest audience of Ohtani collectors. For a quick local flip, Facebook Card Trading groups are viable.
Selling Tips
Do not sell as a standard 'Stars of MLB' card; ensure the word 'CHROME' is in your title to distinguish it from the common $1 paper version. Use a penny sleeve and top-loader immediately. Best time to sell is during the MLB post-season or if Ohtani reaches a new statistical milestone.
Notes
I had this in my binder