Autograph Collecting
First Buzz: 2016 Leaf Pop Century
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What: 2016 Leaf Pop Century trading cards
Arrives: August
Box basics: Four hits per box (10 boxes per case)What's buzz-worthy: Leaf's annual celebrity release comes jam-packed with autographs but also re-introduces memorabilia cards into the mix with what its calls "the strongest checklist ever," a lower production run and sketch autos.
Keep reading for more info and a full gallery of images.
First Buzz: 2016 Topps Star Wars High Tek trading cards
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What: 2016 Topps Star Wars High Tek trading cards
Arrives: Nov. 16
Box basics: One autograph per eight-card hobby box (12 boxes per case)
What's buzz-worthy: The second Star Wars set under the High Tek banner keeps with the formula that worked the first time around with an autograph in every pack along with new patterns and new inclusions from throughout the Star Wars universe.
Keep reading for more and a full gallery of images.
BenchWarmer Dream Girls cards a rare reality via Kickstarter campaign
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It began as a simple book-publishing venture and it's one step closer to becoming a limited-run reality.
The kicker? The 2016 BenchWarmer Dream Girls Kickstarter Elite Preview boxes found as part of a Kickstarter campaign's incentives might be the rarest boxes ever made -- and they're available now.
Each box contains 20 cards all numbered to no more than five copies. At least 12 of those cards will be autographed in a box that also carries a signature from Ciara Price.
First Buzz: 2016 TRISTAR Hidden Treasures Gameday Greats Football Jerseys
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What: 2016 TRISTAR Hidden Treasures Gameday Greats Football Jerseys
Arrives: June 15
Box basics: One autographed jersey per box (five boxes per case)
What's buzz-worthy: TRISTAR's Hidden Treasures football brand returns with the fabric of the game -- autographed jerseys of notable players that collectors can chase via an affordable blind-wrapped box.
Mariners' "Swelmet" started as idea of Blowout member Larry Andersen
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It started as an idea of long-time Seattle Mariners fan and Blowout member Larry Andersen and it's become a phenomenon and a symbol of a team in the hunt for the American League West crown.
It's the Swelmet -- a painted Darth Vader helmet that Andersen wore to a Mariners game in Oakland, an item that caught the eye of the players and an item he traded to the team for a signed Robinson Cano bat.
Now, it's become a piece that the team awards to a player after sweeps -- the "sweep helmet" became "Swelmet" -- a piece seen in photos tweeted by the team and a likely future promotional piece if the team can get them made in time.
Decision 2016 political trading card odds & short-prints revealed
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If you tore into boxes of Decision 2016 trading cards, you may have a reason or two to look back at those cards for some rarer variations that may carry more value than you thought.
Why? The makers of the landmark political product have revealed the short-prints in the product and relative scarcity of the parallels for many of the cards. In addition, per-box odds for retail and hobby have now been disclosed, giving collectors a better idea of what's rarer in the product or what they should expect in a box or case of Decision 2016 trading cards via either hobby or retail.
Interestingly, for example, the most-plentiful cut auto in the product is that of Donald Trump, while cuts with a red-foil frame are much rarer parallels for any subject, whether short-printed or not. (That means this Trump buyer probably got a bit of a deal.)
Also interesting? The shredded currency cards, which are now confirmed to be found one per case, have two versions with one much rarer than the other. Meanwhile, many of the inserts have rarer parallels -- with their relative scarcity now confirmed. One example? The Trump Under Fire cards with red foil like this one are the rarest finds.
Keep reading for a full breakdown of the odds and new short-print info.
Buzz-worthy Gallery: 2016 Topps Archives Bull Durham baseball cards
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It's been nearly 30 years since the arrival of Ebby Calvin "Nuke" LaLoosh and on Wednesday he gets his first baseball card in a fully licensed MLB release.
The set, of course, is 2016 Topps Archives and the star brought to life by Tim Robbins is just one of the Bull Durham cards to be found inside packs. In all, there will be nine certified autographs to chase and seven unsigned cards along with any parallels.
Gallery: 2016 Leaf Sports Heroes trading cards + checklist
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Leaf Trading Cards' latest sports card release arrived in hobby shops on Friday and it includes one of the widest arrays of possible finds -- everything from competitive eaters to Super Bowl kings and even stars from sports movies.
Each box of 2016 Leaf Sports Heroes includes three certified autographs with some of the possible surprises inside also being a 27-autograph card of the 1972 Miami Dolphins and a parallel rainbow that includes five types and printing plates for all cards.
Competitive eating champ Matt Stonie finally has a "Rookie Card"
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You may have seen competitive eating champ Matt Stonie in the headlines this week after another of his videos went viral -- this one being a 7,700-calorie feast of Cinnamon Toast Crunch -- but there's another way that he'll be getting some attention now.
(And he doesn't have to eat a thing -- though you can bet he would.)
How? He's got a "Rookie Card."
NSCC signers: Whose autograph would you pick first?
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This year's National Sports Collectors Convention is a couple of months away and thanks to its non-traditional location -- Atlantic City, N.J. -- there are perhaps a few more guests on tap that we've not expected to see at the annual show.
It's been a long time since the show was last in New Jersey -- it's largely been located in the Midwest for most of the last decade -- so regional autograph guests such as Hideki Matsui and countless others who wore pinstripes and starred for other teams in that area make sense. They'll also help draw in locals who might not normally hit the show ... just to get that ink.
Autograph ticket pricing for the show will come soon, but Buzz has picked seven top names that may not break the bank -- one per sport -- at the show.
Trevor Story is the 2016 Bowman Lucky Redemption
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If you pulled this one, you got lucky because there's quite a story behind this rookie's MLB career so far.
Topps revealed on Thursday that Colorado Rockies shortstop Trevor Story is the Lucky Redemption from 2016 Bowman.
Julio Urias to make MLB debut for Dodgers Friday night vs. Mets
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It's go time for Julio Urias.
The highly touted Los Angeles Dodgers pitching prospect will make his major league debut on Friday night in New York against the defending National League champion Mets. He'll be the youngest starter in MLB since Felix Hernandez back in 2005.
The 19-year-old from Mexico was 4-1 with an 1.10 ERA and 44 strikeouts in 41 innings this season for Triple-A Oklahoma City. Baseball America ranked him fourth overall on its 2016 Top 100 list -- the best pitcher of the bunch. He's actually in his fourth season as a pro after signing with the Dodgers as an international free agent in 2013.
Rittenhouse Archives reveals full Game of Thrones Season 5 autograph lineup (gallery)
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Rittenhouse Archives' latest Game of Thrones set arrives on June 8 with nearly 50 autographed cards in the brand and more than 20 of those are first-time signers for the popular HBO series' trading cards.While the lineup for the Game of Thrones Season 5 set has been known since its announcement (see our First Buzz preview here), the company revealed images of all of the signed cards as it released the final checklist.
David Wright signs exclusive autograph deal with Steiner Sports
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Captain America has a new home when it comes to autographs.
New York Mets third baseman David Wright has signed an exclusive ink deal with Steiner Sports, which the company announced this week.
“David Wright has been the cornerstone of the New York Mets franchise for over a decade and has led the team’s talented young core into a new era of success,” said CEO Brandon Steiner. “Steiner Sports is proud to welcome David to our team and we are looking forward to opportunities to bring fans unique pieces of his signed memorabilia to cherish.”
Ichiro Suzuki's 3,000-hit conquest may hit its finale sooner than later
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He's been a legendary hitter in MLB since arriving in a Seattle Mariners uniform back in 2001, and he's now 42 years old and on a tear with 10 hits in his last three games for the Miami Marlins.
He's Ichiro Suzuki and he's just 40 hits away from the 3,000 Hit Club as a major-leaguer. (Throw on 1,434 hits in Japan and, well, that's a career mark even Pete Rose should appreciate.)
Even if you're a deep-pocketed collector, chasing Ichiro cardboard isn't easy. He's been in high demand since his legendary Rookie of the Year/MVP season and there's plenty of cardboard from that year alone. There's also been plenty since. And there are also plenty of collectors from around the world who are watching his cardboard just as intently as they are watching the box scores right now.
Nikita Kucherov autographs remain tough, hot with Tampa Bay Lightning on verge of Stanley Cup Final
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If you're a long-time reader of The Buzz, then you already know what makes Nikita Kucherov a bit of a hobby anomaly these days, but now that his Tampa Bay Lightning are a win away from a Stanley Cup Final appearance his trivia is even more important.He's one of those players who didn't have a signed Rookie Card -- or at least something -- signed and available shortly after he hit the ice. Collectors had to wait for packs of 2015-16 Upper Deck Buybacks to find his rookie ink, though he's appeared in a handful of releases since that one. In all, he appears on just 16 different autographed cards right now.
Upper Deck readies National Sports Collectors Convention card sets
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This year's National Sports Collectors Convention is set for Aug. 3-7 in Atlantic City, N.J., but that hasn't stopped Upper Deck from revealing the first promotional cards that will only initially be found at the event.The company will produce a five-card VIP set along with a wrapper redemption program.
Just for kicks ... A look at Steven Adams' basketball cards
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We all know why Oklahoma City's Steven Adams was in the headlines after Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals (and, if not, it's on heavy rotation on ESPN just tune in), but the New Zealand-born center just might be a guy on the team whose cardboard could be on the move if the Thunder can dethrone the defending champion Golden State Warriors.
Why?
He's not Kevin Durant or Russell Westbrook. The third-year star and former 12th-overall draft pick has a good amount of cardboard available so, just for kicks, let's take a look at some of his cards ...
This wax box may offer easiest way to pull a Bryce Harper autograph
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Bryce Harper is the reigning National League MVP and easily one of the first names mentioned when someones asks "Who's the best player in the game today?"
Collectors who have been around have known his name for several years now -- he made his cardboard debut way back in the 2008-09 USA Baseball boxed set as a member of the 16U National Team -- but the high demand for his autographs arguably hasn't waned since his dramatic entry into the national consciousness on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a 16-year-old.
He's signed plenty of autographs, but there's still plenty of demand. Check eBay or COMC and you'll see the lowest asking prices for his ink pushing or topping the $200 mark and that puts him out of reach for a lot of collectors.
Gallery: Signing scenes at NFLPA Rookie Premiere (updated)
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The NFLPA Rookie Premiere is here and that means more than 40 newly drafted NFL players are already signing, signing and signing some more before donning their pro uniforms for trading cards.Among those who have signed so far is Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry, who just might have the most-dynamic autograph of the bunch.
First Buzz: 2016 Super Break Hybrid
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What: 2016 Super Break Hybrid
Arrives: June 15
Box basics: Two buyback cards and two memorabilia pieces per box (three boxes per case)
What's buzz-worthy: Super Break's next product includes a mix of everything -- literally 50 categories that the company will break down on a list in every box. Everything from The Bar to game-used and high-end buyback cards can be found.
Board Buzz: Must-read threads on the Blowout Forums (May 17)
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The Blowout Cards Forums are where thousands of collectors converge daily to discuss, well, a little bit of everything. Here are five threads about collecting and more that you should check out right now.
What's Buzzing Today: Big National Treasures pulls, Carlos Beltran debate, Horace Grant's special face, killed feuds and ... future hot comics?
Fanatics show includes some extra memories with Anthony Rizzo
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https://youtube.com/watch?v=CPtF-sDJUBg%3Flist%3DPL1Lhsp8U_jGpPaKtFHgAD5QXWlKNBpPxM
Sometimes a memorabilia show can be memorable for reasons besides the memorabilia.
The Fanatics show in Chicago this weekend was just that for Steve Millsap during a photo opp with Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo.
Check out the video above and hear more from Millsap here in the Blowout forum.
Follow Buzz on Twitter @BlowoutBuzz or send email to BlowoutBuzz@blowoutcards.com.
NFLPA releases roster for 2016 NFLPA Rookie Premiere
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The biggest event of the year in terms of creating new football cards takes place this week as the 22nd annual NFLPA Rookie Premiere kicks off Thursday and runs though Saturday.
It's there where players will don their uniforms for the first time for photos for upcoming Panini America football cards.
“NFLPA Rookie Premiere is one of the most important events that we participate in annually, as it helps us set the stage for our entire football trading card products that we will release over the next 15 months," said Mark Warsop, Panini America CEO. “Serving for the first time as the NFLPA's exclusive trading card partner and presenting sponsor provides us with more opportunities than ever to execute a series of unique activations throughout the event, and create our best-ever product assortment for the new season.”
Today, the NFLPA released who'll be in attendance.
Board Buzz Gallery: Impressive and favorite non-sports autographs
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Is there one non-sports autograph you'd want to own? If you're a fan of anything beyond the sports world, there's probably one name that comes to mind first.In some cases -- Star Wars and Star Trek, for example -- a personality may have plenty of autographs, but in others there may be just one.
Or none at all.