When Topps cut corners

[Topps206]

For about 10 years now I've had a fondness for vintage, delving into '50s and '60s cards, learning about players before my time and in awe of their set design. Despite this, I notice many examples from the 1960s have pictures on cards either completely recycled or just lazy.

Wayne Causey: 1963, 1964 and 1965 Topps have the exacr same picture. Why this is, I don't know.

Billy Hoeft: Same picture in 1961/1962 Topps.

Dave Sisler: See Hoeft

Ken Mackenzie: Different pictures for 1963 and 1964 Topps, but obviously at the same time in the same location.

Larry Haney: 1969 Topps is a mirror reflection of 1968 Topps.

Al Worthington: 1964 Topps is zoomed in from his 1963 card. His 1965 and 1966 Topps are identical.

I'm sure there are plenty of others that I can't think of. Feel free to post.

[geosluggo]

I've often noted the same thing. The 1968 Willie Mays using the same picture as his 1965 card, and the 1969 Mays re-using the picture from his 1966 card, are two of the most egregious examples. The identical 1968 and 1969 Hank Aarons also come to mind.

Here's a really interesting article that partially explains the phenomenon in the late 1960s:

https://sabrbaseballcards.blog/2017/...cott-of-topps/

[tschock]

Football, but 9 year separation from the SAME company (Topps).

[sixpointone]

Wow, that article is indeed fascinating and sheds some light on cards such as from my favorite player Johnny Bench. Thanks for sharing!

[mikemb]

Originally Posted by geosluggo

I've often noted the same thing. The 1968 Willie Mays using the same picture as his 1965 card, and the 1969 Mays re-using the picture from his 1966 card, are two of the most egregious examples. The identical 1968 and 1969 Hank Aarons also come to mind.

Here's a really interesting article that partially explains the phenomenon in the late 1960s:

https://sabrbaseballcards.blog/2017/...cott-of-topps/

Great article! Thamks! Mike

[skil55voy]

Great article. Thanks for posting the link.

[jb67]

geosluggo, That was a very interesting and great read. Thanks for posting. I would love to know more about the Johnny Bench photo.

[mintacular]

61 and 70 bb all-star design repeat