Nolan Ryan Autographed Topps Basic Set
 

Hi all,

I have been working on a Mantle master set for years now and am down to needing just 11 cards, none of which I can find for a price I can justify. I am considering moving on to another project and was thinking of doing an autographed run of Nolan Ryan Topps cards (just the regular issue, not teams, etc.). Has anyone chased this set before? If so, any difficult cards to acquire and any thoughts on the budget that would be needed? I have the 1968 already and don't particularly care about condition.

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!

Chris

Chris,
Great thought! I have put together a set of every Topps card issued...no trouble getting any of them (no variations, such as '91 Desert Shield, etc...).

Ryan is an easy autograph to get.

Good luck

I love Ryan's cards and think they are among the baddest-ass looking in the era. Been doing a basic run up to 1980 and think it is great fun; many have been graded so there are gorgeous, centered gems hiding out in very affordable holders. They must look even better with a bold auto on them. Look forward to seeing the run if you make it happen!

Is it coincidence that you got to #311 in your Mantle quest and figured you've gone enough?:)

I think it would be a great quest. Getting the Ryan cards are simple enough especially without high grade requirements. Having the 68 helps as well. Ryan has been such a great signer for so long I think it's tough enough to be a challenge but not so tough you might break the bank or get stuck.

If you come close and find a handful still needed he will sign TTM through his company. It takes a while to get back but the price isn't outrageous compared to others his caliber and some proceeds go to his charity. Sound like a win, win.

Best of luck and if you attempt you should keep a running post so we can all share in your excitement.

Drew

Ps. Sorry about the thumbs down on top of my post. I don't know how I put it there or how to take it off.

Thank you all. I've got a bid out on a very rare Mantle. If it don't end up winning it, I am starting the Ryan run. The fact he signs through his charity is awesome since you can fill any holes in the collection for a $35 signing fee.

And, I wish I had stopped with the 52 Topps, but for some reason I needed both variations, and then anything else I could find. I think I am just over 320 unique cards with roughly 40+ duplicates. I am pretty sure it is an illness.

Chris, i know you been doing Mantle for a very long time, and i commend your efforts.
I am glad i rode along in the journey for Mantles as well. Hopefully, with my last PM, you'll add another one, as i welcome a new RC to my RC collection quest very soon.
I have considered going after the Nolan RC as well, just havent yet, maybe because its a duo card. Remember back with the sporting news clip...i considered back then at buying one. I think it was a OPC version.
Anyways, if you decide too, it be a great run...
I considered a Cal Ripken rc one, since theres only like 5 cards in it, of course it would not be no 9-10's as the registry guys got it pinned down.
Like MattyC, you can find nice ones in lower grades.

Which 11?
 

What 11 cards do you need?

Hi Howard,

Here is my current want list:

1953 Briggs Meat
1954 Stahl Meyer
1955 Stahl Meyer
1959 Venezuelan
1960 Venezuelan Rival All Stars Mantle & Boyer
1962 Pittsburgh Exhibits
1962 Holiday Inn Postcard – Hotel (3 panel – picture of sign/pool)
1964 Meadowgold – blue
1964 Meadowgold – green
1967 Laughlin Yanks v. Cards Word Series – 1964 (zip code)
1968 Venezuelan

I am also missing four postcards -- Country Cookin, both 55 Exhibit Postcards, and a Mantle issued postcard from his stay in the hospital in 1962 -- and two team issued photos. I have not collected anything I consider a test issue, but will likely go after the ones that actually hit the market at some point, which will add roughly 7 more to the list.