Collectible of the Week: 1976 "Phillies Fever" Record

1976 Phillies Fever - Cover Picture Sleeve

The nation may know the 1985 Chicago Bears anthem, "The Super Bowl Shuffle", but they were actually just one of several teams who did sports-themed records in the 1970's and 80's.  In fact, the Phillies had two such records: 1975's "Ting-A-Ling Double Play No. 2" by Dave Cash and Larry Bowa, and this weeks feature, 1976's "Phillies Fever".  Most of the 1970's pre-dates my existence on this planet, but two things I have learned during my time here are that disco ruled and the 1976 Phillies were a great team.  This record combines those elements into one round piece of plastic (for our enjoyment).

This 7" vinyl single definitely has value as "just a record", but the real value is in the picture sleeve which features several stars from the Phillies.  Both the front and back are cool display items for a collector of this era (or these players).  A playing record with the well preserved picture sleeve will have considerably more value than one with a generic paper sleeve.  I have seen a couple generic sleeve versions online for $10 or less over the past year, but have not seen any with the picture sleeve.  This seems like a collectible better picked up at a flea market or yard sale than on eBay.

Label: Grand Prix
Format: Vinyl, 7", 45 RPM
A Side: Phillies Fever
B Side: Dancin' with the Phillies (Instrumental version of the A-side, "Phillies Fever")
Featuring: Greg Luzinski, Dave Cash, Garry Maddox, Larry Bowa and Mike Schmidt

Back of '76 Phillies Fever Picture Sleeve

Collectible of the Week: Steve Carlton Gartlan Statue

Carlton Gartlan USA Figurines

Gartlan U.S.A. began production on their porcelain figurines in 1985.  Each player would (mainly) be represented in two versions – an 9” and the smaller, 5” (mini) – while in some cases a third figure was also created “Artist’s Proof”. The larger figure contains an authentic player autograph while the mini features a facsimile. The artist’s proof figurines feature both the player and artist’s signatures.

The Steve Carlton statues were released in 1989 and there are examples of each the 9", 5" and artist proof versions available: 

9” Figure – 3,290 (valued at approximately $50-75)

5” (mini) Figure – 10,000 (valued at approximately $15)

Artist’s proof - 250 (??? - couldn't find any examples)

Collectible of the Week: Jim Thome Danbury Mint Figurine

Jim Thome Danbury Mint Figurine

What's old is new again.  Across the Delaware Valley in the Spring of 2003, Phillies fans were clamoring for all things Jim Thome.  The all-star first baseman signed as a free-agent during the offseason, and many people expected him to finally get the young team into the post-season.  Opportunistic companies rushed to produce #25 shirsey's and posters.  Beyond that, Thome quickly began appearing on bobble heads and various figurines that spring...a trend that did not end until he left.  During his original stint with the team, one figurine stood out above the rest, it was produced in 2004 by The Danbury Mint.

Jim Thome became the second Phillie to be honored by The Danbury Mint, following Mike Schmidt whose figurine was originally sold the year earlier.  The statue stands 8" high, and is mounted on a nice wood base.  Compared to some of the other products sold at the time, the statue is very detailed and actually looks like the future Hall of Famer.  It features him mid-stride at the plate where you can imagine him hitting a gapper to left-center field.

Over the years since Thome was traded to the White Sox, I have seen this statue available online for as little as $40, which always annoyed me a little since I bought it at retail price in 2004.  With him back in  red pinstripes for the 2012 season, local interest in the big man has been rekindled.  And it's not surprising The Danbury Mint has recently relisted the statue on their site...at a premium of $87.

To purchase the statue from The Danbury Mint (use the following link): Thome Figurine

Collectible of the Week: Mike Schmidt Rookie Card

1973 Topps - Mike Schmidt Rookie Card

The 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie card is the most recognizable Phillies card ever produced.  As a young Phillies fan during the 1980's, Mike Schmidt was easily my favorite player.  My bedroom walls were covered with his posters, and I had all of his cards stored neatly in plastic pages (nine at a time, front only).  For me, like most other Phillies fans, the Schmidt rookie card is the "holy grail".

The set:
The complete 660-card, 1973 Topps set is a really unique - and in many ways has always been defined by its inclusion of the Schmidt card.  Many detractors of the set will point to examples of poor photography, or card design but it has always been one of my favorites.  In addition to Schmidt, the set also contained both Bob Boone and Goose Gossage's first cards and singles of 25 other HOFers (including the final cards for both Willie Mays and Roberto Clemente).  And personally, I have always liked the All-Time Leaders and Post-Season highlight card subsets - and of course, the horizontal regular issue player cards (like the sweet Willie Montanez card below).

Willie Montanez 1973 Topps

The set was originally sold in series via wax packs, rack packs, cello packs and vending boxes.  The final series (cards 529-660) have generally been considered "the hardest to find".  Coincidentally,  the Mike Schmidt card falls right in the "sweet spot" of this series (#615), and in addition to his status of the greatest third baseman of all-time contributes to the card's overall/lasting value.


Schmidt Card Vital Stats:
Manufacturer: Topps
Year: 1973
Card Number: 615
Description: Part of the "Topps Rookie Stars" subset, the card features Schmidtty as one of three future star third baseman (Ron Cey and John Hilton are the others).  While I am sure both Cey and Hilton refer to it as their rookie cards - Schmidt is the obvious attraction for MOST of the market.  Even with the depreciation in card values over the years, the Schmidt rookie still commands prices between $90-150 (or more dependent on grade).

By the way, after years of longing for that Mike Schmidt rookie of my own - my dad bought me one for my 13th birthday.  Still one of the greatest gifts ever...

Collectible of the Week: 1964 Phillies Press Guide

It has been at least a couple of weeks since I mentioned the 1964 Phillies, so figured you might be due for a new post on them.  Despite the great September collapse, there were several memorable moments during that season and it bore many pieces of Phillies memorabilia: A phantom World Series program, phantom World Series tickets, Johnny Callison on the cover of SI, Jim Bunning's perfect game program/ticket and those great Pointer pictures distributed by the Inquirer (to name a few).  At the top of the heap, the cream of the crop though is the 1964 Press Guide.  

1964 Phillies Press Guide (via HuntAuctions.com)

Prior to 1964 the Phillies did not publish official statistical guides for their media partners.  At that time they were the only Major League team to not have a "Press Guide" detailing their roster and playing schedule.  After a request to have one printed for the upcoming 1964 season was denied by Phillies management (too expensive they said), media-guru, Larry Shenk rolled up his sleeves and manually assembled 300 in his own living room.  His wife threw in an assist by hand-coloring each cover.

The Philadelphia Athletics Historical Society has a great piece on the Press Guide (Link to the full article).  It details the process the Shenk's undertook in creating the booklets:

"Shenk typed by hand a master stencil for each page of the guide, fitted the stencils one at a time around the mimeograph machine’s inked drum and produced multiple duplicate copies of each page. A laborious task was made even more onerous by the fact that two pages of the guide could be typed onto a single stencil. This was economical, but every copy mimeographed from each stencil had to be cut in half by hand to separate the two pages. With the mimeographed pages of the guide printed and cut, Shenk now faced the grueling task of collating and binding all of the pages for each of the guides."

Stats on the Press Guide:

Number produced: 300

Number still existing: ?? - It has been estimated at only a dozen or more have survived

Number of pages: 58

Size: 4 1/8"x 8 1/2"

Value: I found two examples of these sold at auction:

• August 23, 2002, Hunt Auctions sold for $2000
• November 11, 2011, Estimated between $500 - $750, one sold by Hunt Auctions fetched $650

Collectible of the Week: Top 5 Jimmy Rollins Figurines

Last weekend I reflected on some of the times I met Jimmy Rollins and shared a few autographs I acquired during those meetings.  As promised in that post, I am continuing the J-Roll lovefest by dedicating this week's Collectible of the Week to our favorite shortstop.

Over the years the Phillies have leveraged Jimmy's popularity to offer a load of SGA's ranging from t-shirts to prints, backpacks and bobble heads.  It must be acknowledged that the team often finds great ways to reward customers (i.e. - us fans) with unique memorabilia (sometimes with variation).  They have been especially generous with their promotions featuring J-Roll.  Below are what I would consider the top 5 Jimmy Rollins figurines (statue/bobble head) currently available in the market:

5.  Jimmy Rollins SGA Figurine

Year produced: 2005

Comments:  

SGA at Citizens Bank Park June 21, 2005.  I really struggled with this one.  Probably my least favorite item on the list, I never really thought the likeness was very good on this figurine.  It can be considered as part of a bigger set (Jim Thome and Bobby Abreu were also featured that season) which is a plus.  A variant, with JRoll in a white, home uniform was also produced.

 

4.  Jimmy Rollins/Ryan Howard Dual "MVP" Bobble Head

Year produced: 2008

Quantity produced: Unknown

Availability: This bobble was only available to leaders of group ticket parties.  With the limited original distribution, your only real avenue for getting one at this point is in the online secondary market.

Comments:  If one bobble is good, two is twice as nice!  The Phillies have handed out a couple dual-bobble heads over the years (Harry and Whitey, Phil and Phyllis), and in my opinion they never get old.  A unique way to honor a unique situation of having back-to-back MVP's on the same team.  I don't think this one is particularly rare, but from looking at prices online it has maintained a fairly high resale value.  I won't put a price on it - but, if you see one at a yard sale for under $25...pick it up!!!

3.  

Jimmy Rollins Scranton-Wilkes Barre Bronze Figurine

Year produced: 2006

Quantity produced: Unknown

Availability: Originally a SGA at Lackawanna County Stadium on April 17, 2006.  You find these every once in a while on eBay.

Comments: This set contained a lot of great Phillies from the past decade (Utley, Howard, Burrell, Rolen among others).  Produced for the now defunct AAA Scranton Wilkes-Barre Red Barons these statues are pretty solid and really display nicely.  Some in the set are more rare than others (Shane Victorino for example), but the player poses and unique bronze, rough edged texture of the figure make them a must have for your personal collection.

2.

 Jimmy Rollins Blood Drive Bobble Head - Gray Jersey variation

Year produced: 2008

Quantity produced: 2,500

Availability: While version #1 with Jimmy in the white, home jersey was available to all paying customers on June 4, 2008, version #2 featuring the gray, away jersey was only available to fans who donated blood later in the season (August).

Comments: Personally, the "best looking" figurine in the list.  The evaluation can be kept short and sweet: The smooth left-handed bat drop, the mirrored shades - what's not to like?!

1.  

Jimmy Rollins SGA Bobble Head - Red Jersey Variation

Year produced: 2002

Quantity produced: 1,000

Availability:  Handed out randomly amongst the tens of thousands of white, home jersey versions during the Phillies game at Veterans Stadium - June 23, 2002.

Comments:  Not only is this the most rare item in the list, but the 2002 bobble head is a sentimental favorite of mine, too.  It was produced right as the bobble head re-birth took MLB by storm and as a big fan of Jimmy's I was excited to be offered the opportunity to get his bobble head.  I attended the game with my brother (both of us received the standard version).  Bonus points have to go out to the Phillies for inserting the variants randomly into the population - fans needed to do no more than show up for a chance to receive this surprise.  And, let's face it - those red BP jersey's are sweet!

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Collectible of the Week: Player Replica 1980 World Series Trophy

In the Collectible of the Week series I highlight both low, and high value pieces of Phillies memorabilia.  We have spotlighted items like $20 game-day programs to game-used items that could bring a couple hundred dollars.  This week's item is the most expensive collectible to date, and while I will never be able to purchase a player replica 1980 World Series trophy I found it an interesting topic and thought I would share...

Of course we are all familiar with the original trophies that are presented by the Commissioner and hoisted by members of the World Championship team each fall.  And many of us have seen (one or both of) the trophies won by the Phillies over the years.  These prizes are owned by the team and are (to my knowledge) never available to any single person.  As you can imagine, there is a demand amongst the players to have their own "copy" of the original they worked so hard to win.  To satisfy this demand, Texas based ring/trophy producer, Balfour has historically offered for sale miniature versions of the World Series trophy to players from the winning team.  These copies are often referred to as "12-inch" or "Half-sized" trophies, and may be produced across many years, on-demand for the player.  Because their production dates vary, materials and even engravings may be different from one to another.  

Below are three different versions of a 12-inch, player replica 1980 World Series trophy.  While each one varies a little from the other, two things can be agreed upon: they are awesome display pieces and they will cost you handsomely!

Hunt Auctions

 - Version #1

12" Player Replica '80

Version #1

Sale Date: Unknown

Sale Price: $4,750

Size: 12"

Features: "

brass pennants with team names around the perimeter of a large brass circle with a crown finial. Phillies and Royals World Series press pin facades adorn the center area with "World Series Champions Philadelphia Phillies 1980" in black lettering on the front." (Hunt Auctions description)

Comments: To me, this version best represents the original 1980 World Series trophy.  It is not attributed to any one player, and the auction house comments do not note a production year.

Legendary Auctions

 - Version #2

12" Player Replica '80

Version #2

Sale Date: 4/2006

Sale Price: $11,488

Size: 12"

Features: "

The prize is arranged upon a 2-1/2"-tall, 7-1/4"-diameter wooden base, whose surrounding gold-colored band reads "

WORLD CHAMPIONS

 /

 Philadelphia Phillies 

/

 1980

." Atop the black base, a 5"-diameter gold-colored band has a silver-colored baseball at its base and a very detailed crown figure at the top. Standing prominently at the front of the display are press pin replicas representing the respective World Series combatants. Surrounding the base are 26 gold-colored flags that, in alphabetical order, bear the names of each Major League team; the banners gradually ascend in size from 5-1/2" to 9-1/2"." (Legendary Auctions description)

Comments: The key difference between Version #1 and #2 is the engraving.  Version #1 states "World Series Champions" while Version #2 has "World Champions".  Neither is considered incorrect, but is more a statement about when the trophies were produced.  Since Version #1 has the same inscription as the "original" 1980 Phillies trophy, it may be reasonably assumed that it was produced closer to 1980 than Version #2 - but, who knows...

Huggins and Scott

 - 10th Year Anniversary version

12" Player Replica '80

10th Year Reunion 

Sale Date: 7/2008

Sale Price: $3,000

Size: 12"

Features: "

This championship trophy (measuring approximately 12" in height and 7" in diameter) was issued in 1990 for the tenth reunion of the Phillies 1980 World Series victory and features 26 gold-colored pennants (each bearing the team name of a major league franchise and ascending in height from 6-1/8" to 9-3/8") positioned around the perimeter of a circular black wooden base...

The gold-colored band affixed around the base reads, "Phillies 10th Reunion – 1980 World Series Champs" in black lettering along with facsimile signatures of the players." (Huggins and Scott description)

Comments: This actual trophy was attributed to Steve Carlton.  Because it was produced for a certain occasion (the 1980 team's 10th year anniversary), we know the exact age of the piece.  It also contained a Balfour sticker on the bottom - something not included on either of the earlier versions.  While not an "acutal" piece for piece replica of the original - this trophy is nice for several reasons: Price, it would look great on display and it can be tied back to a key player on the 1980 team.

Collectible of the Week: 1983 Phillies 100th Anniversary Roy Rogers Glasses

1983 was a memorable year to Phillies fans for many reasons.  First, it marked the 100th season of the team's history and featured a season-long celebration.  Second, the Phils fielded four Hall of Famers - Steve Carlton, Mike Schmidt, Tony Perez, Joe Morgan (and ineligible Pete Rose).  And, third, the Phillies made a remarkable trip back to the World Series after a torrid September pennant run.  1983 can also be seen as a transition from the old guard where guys like Rose, Ron Reed, Tug McGraw and Larry Christenson gave way to the "next generation"of players, Charles Hudson, Juan Samuel and Von Hayes (among others).  In a lot of ways, it was the perfect season to reflect back on the team's long, rich history - and close out the original "Golden Age" of Phillies baseball.  As we prepare for the 1983 NL Champion Phillies reunion at this weekend's December Philly Show I chose to spotlight one of the best items (if I may impart my opinion) to come out of this celebration - a glass set produced by Roy Rogers fast food restaurants.

As might be expected, much of the the Phillies promotional power that year was thrown behind the celebration of the team's Centennial.  There were several stadium giveaways that highlighted the special players and events of the team's history - Dick Perez postcards, and a couple posters for example.  Almost all memorabilia produced for the season featured the Centennial Season logo.  The Roy Rogers Collector's Glass set includes six 5 1/2" drinking glasses and one 9", heavy glass pitcher.  Each piece of the set features the classic 100th Anniversary logo - the green diamond with historical "P's" marking each of the four corners.  The rim of each drinking glass is marked with gold painting.  Often the glasses are found separately without the pitcher.  Though less often found with all pieces present, the value of this set hasn't increased much over the past 25+ years - it could still be expected to be available between $10-$20.

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Collectible of the Week: Greatest Moments of the Century Poster

Some of the best collectibles were, like this week's spotlight item, stadium giveaways.  As a young fan watching the Phillies during the 1980s - 1990s I always looked forward to the poster days.  Typically the team would have one or two in their annual promotional lineup - highlighted by the "Pride of the Phillies" poster toward the end of the season.  Each season produced an opportunity to cover another space on my bedroom wall with Dick Perez drawn images of Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton - or to cloak my closet door with "Dr. Dirt and Mr. Clean".  As an adult I have seen these posters as not only a way to decorate my Phillies Room, but also a medium to collect signatures of the guys I watched play as a kid.

This week's featured collectible is the Greatest Moments of the Century poster that was given to all fans attending the Phillies game on August 8th 1999.  The poster is made of a heavier stock of paper and measures 11.5"x15.5".  Depicted are 10 of the best moments in Phillies history (through 1999).  The moments included are:

1. 1980 World Series
2. 1995 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies (Schmidt and Ashburn)
3. 1993 Pennant Clincher vs. Atlanta
4. 1980 Pennant Clincher vs. Houston
5. 1987 Mike Schmidt's 500th Home Run
6. 1983 Steve Carlton's 3000th Strikeout
7. 1964 Jim Bunning's Perfect Game
8. 1950 Pennant Clincher vs. Brooklyn
9. 1983 Pennant Clincher vs. Los Angeles
10. 1993 Curt Schilling's Game 5 World Series Shutout

I had never considered getting this signed, but saw an almost fully signed one listed in Hunt Auction's November internet auction and liked the idea.  For the most part the people featured on the poster are still living.  Notable exceptions would be Richie Ashburn, Robin Robers and Dick Sisler from the Whiz Kids and longtime GM/manager Paul "Pope" Owens who died in 2003.  In the end I decided not to bid (and probably won't try to get mine signed).  It sold for $96 - which is a real value considering how much it would cost to build now, and that it included both Owens and Roberts signatures.

If I was putting this poster together today I would probably drop out Schilling's Game 5 gem, and the NL Pennant winning game over the Dodgers in 1983 and replace them with the 2008 World Series win and Roy Halladay's NLDS no-hitter in 2010.  Also, we would need to re-order things a little - and am I crazy or is it a crime that the Whiz Kids pennant clincher is #8?  This was a momentous event, unthinkable at the time - the highlight of two Hall of Fame careers!  In the 1999 version I think it would rank at least as the fifth best moment, maybe higher if you drop the 1995 HOF induction.  

Collectible of the Week: 1975 Phillies Team Signed Ball

     

Up for bid is...
This week's spotlight collectible is a vintage Phillies logo ball signed by 18 members of the 1975 team.  In many ways the 1975 Phillies with a 86-76 record were (at the time) a disappointment after finishing in second place, and compared to the teams that succeeded them ('76, '77 and '78 NL Eastern Division Champions, '80 WS Champions) they were, er, less memorable.  Starring two future Hall of Famers in Steve Carlton and Mike Schmidt, and stars such as Dick Allen, Greg Luzinski, Larry Bowa and Dave Cash these Phillies were definitely "on their way."  While many fans will point to 1976 as the pivotal season for this core group of players - it was during the 1975 season that those players took on Dave Cash's "Yes We Can" attitude and began their assent.

As I have mentioned before, I am always on the look out for partially signed team balls that can be filled out with additional living team members.  They are great because they take some of the work (and expense) out of collecting a team ball.  I hit TTM (through-the-mail) pretty hard during the offseason, and love sending out team balls to get signed.  It's a good way to get free autographs, and a ball like this would make a great project for November - March.  When considering a partially signed team ball purchase I make a mental pro/con list.  Here are my thoughts on this item:

Pros:

• There are 18 total signatures - that is a real good start
• One of those signatures belongs to Hall of Famer Steve Carlton - $40 savings
• Five of those signatures belong to deceased members of the team (Cox, Oates, Beringer, Twitchell and Hoerner) - I would never get another chance to get these guys if I started from scratch (obviously)
• Condition looks good, signatures look strong
• Notable team because of the things I mentioned above
• Good TTM stats for members of this team on Sports Collectors Net, so there is an opportunity to add to the existing base

Cons:

• Of the 18 signatures, the ball does not currently have any of the following key ones:
• Danny Ozark - MGR (deceased)
• Mike Schmidt - HOF - $60-70 at a show
• Dick Allen - $40-50 at a show
• Tug McGraw - deceased
• The cost - considering the omissions listed in the first con, I would never be able to get the "full" team to sign (and hate not having the manager on a ball) - and it would cost at least an additional $100 to add Schmidt and Allen (must haves).
• It would probably be worth a chance to contact the seller and offer $50; that is more along the lines of a "fair price" for this ball.

Anyway, here are the complete stats and link to the item on eBay.  Keep your eyes open for other partially signed balls - and always do the mental (or physical) pro/con list...

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Players on the ball:

Ron Schueler, Mike Rogodzinski, Tim McCarver, Jim Lonborg, Johnny Oates, Larry Cox, Bob Boone, Greg Luzinski,

Wayne Twitchell, John Montague, Tommy Hutton, Joe Hoerner, Steve Carlton and Jay Johnstone.

Coaches on the ball: Bobby Wine, Billy DeMars and Carroll Beringer

Bid Here

Collectible of the Week: Phillies tickets

The postseason is a great time for adding new items to your collection.  At the least there are programs and pennants that are produced in limited quantities for each round and World Series appearances can yield t-shirts, pictures and various trinkets for years after.  Some items like last year's 1st edition NLDS program are only available for sale during one game and will continue to demand prices two and three times. Others are mass produced to the point where retail value doesn't hold beyond the close of the series. Win or lose, one postseason collectible that is sure to stay in your collection is your game ticket.

In general I don't consider myself a ticket collector - but, like most people I have a box with ticket stubs from games I have attended.  The "collection" spans three decades, and many tickets are from games whose scores I don't remember, that featured players who I have either forgotten, or wish I could (the late '90's were brutal).  Others instantly trigger memories such as the one from August 13, 1993 that ended with Kim Batiste's 9th inning grand slam or April 27, 2003 when Kevin Millwood pitched his no-hitter against the Giants.  Among the most memorable are the playoff tickets that I have accumulated over the years.

Through the years, although postseason appearances have been sparse, the Phillies have produced memorable tickets for their Playoff and World Series games.   The team seemed to sense the ticket's place in the collectibles world making sure to feature unique designs and logos.  A well designed ticket from a memorable/meaningful postseason game can hold value on the secondary market or find a place as a display piece for years after the event.  Unfortunately, like their play on the field, the Phillies' design for this season's playoff tickets were bland, and non-distinctive.  If only I could stuff the memories of the NLDS into that box of old tickets, too.

Memorable dates in Phillies history worth collecting:

No-Hitters -

• June 21, 1964 at NYM – Jim Bunning
• June 23, 1971 at CIN – Rick Wise
• August 15, 1990 at PHI – Terry Mulholland
• May 23, 1991 at MTL – Tommy Greene
• April 27, 2003 at PHI – Kevin Millwood
• May 29, 2010 at FLA – Roy Halladay
• October 6, 2010 at PHL – Roy Halladay

History Making Accomplishments -

• Steve Carlton’s 3,000th Strikeout – April 29, 1981
• Pete Rose Breaking the NL Hits Record – August 10, 1981
• Steve Carlton’s 300^th Win – September 23, 1983
• Mike Schmidt’s 500^th Homerun – April 18, 1987

Pennant Clinching Dates -

• October 1, 1950 at BKLN
• October 8, 1983 at PHL
• October 12, 1980 at HOU
• October 13, 1993 at PHL
• October 15, 2008 at LAD
• October 21, 2009 at PHL

World Series Winning Dates - 

• October 21, 1980 at PHL (Game 6)
• October 29, 2008 at PHL (Game 5)

Collectible of the Week: Veterans Stadium Mike Schmidt Retired Number Banner

Amid an ice storm, remnants of Veterans Stadium were sold and auctioned off as part of the Phillies Charities "Final Pieces" memorabilia auction and sale on February 6, 2004.  The event promised to offer Philadelphia sports fans a unique opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind items from the stadium.  There were a range of both low and high ticket pieces available for sale and signing appearances from both current Phillies players, and some greats who played at the Vet.  The highest profile items, however, were reserved for the auction portion of the day.

Mike Schmidt Retired Number Banner from Veterans Stadium

The pages of the auction preview booklet were filled with things like lockers from both the home and visitor locker rooms, game used equipment, Executive furniture and signs/flags from various parts of the the stadium.  From time to time over the past few years a couple of the pieces from the auction have shown up in online auctions, often fetching much more than the sale price realized that winter day.  This week auction item #206 from the Final Pieces preview booklet joins that list.  "Mike Schmidt Retired Number 20 Banner" is now auction item #11 on Hunt Auction's (Exton, PA) current internet auction.

Description on Hunt Auction's site: Mike Schmidt's retired number banner from Veterans Stadium (EX). 89"x91" vinyl banner that was displayed in Veterans Stadium. Banner reads "Mike Schmidt 20" in red against a white background with red pinstripes. Exhibits typical wear from being exposed to the weather: EX


These banner were an iconic part of Veterans Stadium.  By the final season, the Schmidt banner was one of seven retired numbers hung against a black tarp above the outfield wall.  Added to the collection on May 26, 1990 - the Schmidt banner would certainly be a nice addition to any Phillies fan's collection (if you can find a place big enough to hang it!).  Bidding is currently at $316, and the auction bidding period ends 10 PM on Wednesday, September 14th.   

Collectible of the Week: Early Bird Gift - Dick Perez, 2009 World Series Lithograph

The Phillies don't have any problem selling tickets these days, but for most of the 80s and 90s they searched for ways to get season ticket holders, and to encourage those customers to pay for their tickets as early as possible.  For years the team has employed sports artist Dick Perez to create unique, and appealing "early bird" lithographs for this purpose.  While Phillies fans are most familiar with Perez's work from 1983 Nostalgia Postcards and Pride of the Phillies posters he is recognizable to sports fans across the country and his artwork graces the walls of the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY and the Hall of Fame Club at Citizens Bank Park.

Over the years Perez has painted numerous Phillies stars for the early bird gift lithographs - Cole Hamels, Mike Lieberthal, and most recently 2010 Cy Young Award Winner Roy Halladay.  This week's collectible discussion will focus on the 2010 offering which depicted the team announcements before Game 3 of the 2009 World Series.  The Series switched back to Philadelphia on Halloween Night - October 31, 2009 and this lithograph shows Phillies manager, Charlie Manuel shaking hands with Yankees skipper Joe Girardi.  The 18"x25" poster is individually numbered XXXX/1200 and signed in pencil by Perez.

I had not seen one of these lithographs until last spring and picked it up for $20 on eBay, but recently saw a few pop-up over the past two weeks.  I have started getting my poster signed by members of the 2009 NL Champions - and have received a lot of good comments from fellow collectors at either CBP or  the card shows when I get it signed.  Be on the look-out for these - a great addition to any Phillies room.

Collectible of the Week: Connie Mack Stadium Final Game Program

On October 1, 1970 the Montreal Expos were in Philadelphia to play the final series at Connie Mack Stadium.  Fans attending the finale received a free booklet detailing the storied history of the stadium, a print of the 1909 Inquirer front page from its first Opening Day and a "I Was There" certificate.  Copies of the complete trio are fairly difficult to find in top condition.  The actual game day program featured a black and white photo of Expos star, Rusty Staub surrounded by the colored logos of the National League teams.

A very popular collectible, regular season programs are a staple of the flea market/yard sale circuit - with those pre-1960's ranking as the most popular and valuable.  As with any paper based collectible, condition is a paramount determinant of value - as are scarcity and cover subject.  Generally speaking, collectors prefer to have an "unscored" program.  This is one of the few exceptions where having a program fully scored may increase the program’s value since there is was no "final edition" printed specifically for the game.  The Staub program was used over the weekend series, and scoring can assure it is from the October 1st game.  Over the past few years I have sold two separate copies of the game day program (in excellent condition) for between $25-30 each.

Collectible of the Week: Pete Rose Game Used Bat- circa 1980-83

This week's item was found by browsing through closed online auctions managed by Hunt Auctions in Philadelphia.  It is a Pete Rose game used H&B Louisville Slugger, circa 1980-1983.  There are a couple reasons I decided to write about this item - first, it provides an example from which to talk a little bit about one of the hardest things to do in the memorabilia market - authenticating and dating a game-used bat (Note: There should be no concerns with authenticating items from Hunt Auctions - they are a reputable auction house), and second - what a great deal it was.   

A game used bat is just that - a professional model bat that was used by a player during a Major League Game.  Game used bats are created to a specific players requirements and are generally identified by a stamp of the player's signature, the name stamped in bold black letters or by a uniform number written on the handle. One look at this item and you notice the "Pete Rose" signature on the barrel, and as the description states  - "Vintage "14" is written in black marker on the knob end..."  Next you should consider the model specific clues that are available through the photos.  Hillerich and Bradsby (H&B) Louisville Slugger bats were and are a very popular choice of  Major League players.  They also are one of the easiest to date.  First look to the model number...

• Pre-1943 - Bats did not contain a model number
• 1943 - 1975 - The model number was stamped on the bat knob
• 1976 to present - The model number is found on the barrel above the player's name

You will also want to take note to the model number itself - it should be a letter followed by three or fewer numbers.  In the case of this bat, we can see that the model number "S2" is stamped on the bat barrel above Pete's signature.  That tells us it is a 1976 or later professional model bat.  During this examination, let's also look at the trademark.  H&B began branding the number "125" below the slogan "Louisville Slugger" in 1918.  If the bat you are researching has any number other than "125" in this area - it should be considered a store model.  

Lastly, consider the condition of the bat itself.  Is it cracked?  Does it have a lot of game use evident?   The auction description states the bat "shows evident use including ball marks, stitching impressions, rack marks, and pin tar residue on the handle"...This sounds perfect!   The Hit-King probably knocked a few of his historic hits with this piece of lumber.  Historically, un-cracked, game used bats have been much harder to obtain than the cracked variety.  While both certainly have value in today's marketplace, the un-cracked are much more desirable; in fact, the severity of a crack in a bat is a large determinant of how it will be priced.

I was really struck with how this bat - which received a pre-auction estimate sale price between $1000-1500 - sold for $300.  You can go onto ebay, or other popular sites and find bats of much less important players for two, three times this price.  Of course, "value" is only really what a person will pay for something - which will vary from person to person.  I haven't seen anyone bid on that $2500 Chase Utley used bat yet, but someone, someday  might think it is worth that amount.  If anything, it re-enforces the lesson that as a collector, you cannot rely solely on one source when adding to your collection.  There are a lot of online auctions run by outfits like Hunt's, check them out, have fun and dream that you could find a nugget like this!

Collectible of the Week: Lenny Dykstra Sports Impressions 7" Figurine

Established in 1987 and widely considered the pre-eminent producer of porcelain figurines during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, Sports Impression figurines are still coveted in the memorabilia today.  There are generally two different sizes of figurines created by Sports Impressions – 5” mini, and a 7” regular - though Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton both represented the Phillies with a 10" version.  

This week we are looking at the rarest of the Phillies player figurines to be created by the company, the 1991 version of Center Fielder, Lenny Dykstra.  Dykstra was coming off his breakout 1990 season, and collectors were taking notice.  Sports Impressions produced a limited number of both the 5" mini (2,950 figures) and the 7" regular (1,990).  Because of financing problems and the growth of competitors in the market, the company did not always produce the full number of figurines that were intended.  While it is not definite, this seems to be the case with the Dykstra figurine, which is rarely seen at shows or online.  Figurines when found on the market range in price from $75-125.

Collectible of the Week: 1950 Philadelphia Inquirer Color Photos

This week's item was a lot of 16, 1950 Philadelphia Inquirer color photos found on eBay.  Part of a total collection of 25 5"x7" player photos, those included in this lot were still in original uncut condition.  The seller noted that all were in good shape, with the exception of Bob Miller's picture which contained a white stain.  Notables included as part of the 16 were Richie Ashburn, Robin Roberts, Curt Simmons, Granny Hamner and Ed Waitkus.  The lot sold for $58.77 with 13 total bids.

Overall, I really like this set and think the buyer got a pretty fair price - though, I'd prefer to have the complete set over the portion offered in the sale.  You don't see these come up for sale that often, and rarely in the original condition. The set is attractive for several reasons, first the limited availability and condition issues for those photos that are found.  60-year old newspaper does not hold up that well...We also find that it is rare to find straight edges and even margins since many of the photos were clipped by young fans during the 1950 season.  Another reason the set is desirable lies in the fact that it features one of the most-loved teams in team history - The Whiz Kids.  Our staff has seen complete sets of all 25 players for $100+... If found singularly, non-starters would fetch $5 each, while the regulars such as Ashburn and Del Ennis may go as high as $10-15 apiece (more if they are signed).  

Below is a complete list of the set:

Richie Ashburn

Jimmy Bloodworth

Ralph Caballero

Milo Candini

Bubba Church

Blix Donnelly

Del Ennis

Mike Goliat

Granny Hamner

Ken Heintzelman

Stan Hollmig

Ken Johnson

Willie Jones

Jim Konstanty

Stan Lopata

Russ Meyer

Bob Miller

Bill Nicholson

Robin Roberts

Andy Seminick

Ken Silvestri

Curt Simmons

Dick Sisler

Eddie Waitkus

Dick Whitman