Hey there, fellow card enthusiasts! It’s Ken here, diving deep into the trials and triumphs of collecting the 1959 Fleer Ted Williams set. If you’re a regular reader, you know my affinity for SGC grading, and let me tell you, this journey has been a rollercoaster.
About the 1959 Fleer Ted Wiliams Set
Let’s set the scene: the 1959 Fleer Ted Williams set is dedicated entirely to the Splendid Splinter himself, Ted Williams. This 80-card set is a treasure trove for any serious collector. But let’s be real – finding these cards in good condition is like searching for a needle in a haystack. The set is notorious for its condition sensitivity, and securing a pristine #68 card is the Holy Grail. Due to its rarity and demand, this elusive card can set you back anywhere from $700 to $1,200 depending on its grade.
Now, you might be wondering, why all the fuss about this set? Well, it’s a unique tribute to one of baseball’s greatest players (one of my favorite of All-time), capturing key moments in Williams’ life and career. Plus, the cards are just plain cool, with vibrant colors and iconic imagery that make them stand out in any collection.
My Quest for the Set – Still in its Beginning Phase
Now, let’s talk about my conquests. I’ve decided to PC (personal collection) this set and aim to grade every single card with SGC. For the uninitiated, SGC is my go-to grading company. There’s a certain charm and reliability with SGC slabs that I find unmatched.
So far, I’ve graded two cards:
- Card #23 – “1944: Williams Wins His Wings”: This card features Ted Williams in his military uniform, a nod to his service during World War II. I got a 7.5 on this one, which was my very first grading experience. Scoring a 7.5 on a ’59 card was nothing short of awesome.
2. Card #37 – “1949: Sox Miss Out Again”: This card captures the heartbreak of another near-miss season for the Red Sox. It received a grade of 5 from SGC. Not as high as my first, but still a solid grade given the set’s age and condition challenges.
More recently, I acquired card #22 – “1944: Ted Solos” from an eBay purchase. This card shows Ted Williams in action, on his first solo flight as a pilot (after training). It’s all set to go out in my next grading submission. (I currently have 10 cards with SGC now)
One thing I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of setting a strong budget and sticking to it. The market for these cards can be fierce, and prices can escalate quickly. However, by maintaining a budget and being patient, I’ve managed to limit my risk while still adding valuable pieces to my collection.
The Conundrum
The #68 card.
This card is the crown jewel of the set, depicting Ted Williams signing his contract for the 1959 season. It’s considered a short print, meaning fewer copies were produced, making it incredibly rare and highly sought after. The card has been hard to find for a while and even had people questioning if the “scarcity” is real or perceived. Finding one in good condition is a challenge, and prices can range from $700 to $1,200 depending on the grade. This card is a true test of patience and perseverance for any collector. Raw, they are few and far between (there are a few re-prints for $110 and $150) and even a raw on for $1150.
My SGC Preference
Now, let’s talk about why I prefer SGC for grading. For those who don’t know, SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) is one of the top grading companies in the hobby. They have a reputation for being consistent and reliable, and their slabs have a classic, clean look that I love. Plus, they offer quick turnaround times and excellent customer service.
I’ve sent two cards from this set to SGC so far, and the experience has been fantastic. My first submission was the #23 card, and I was thrilled to get a 7.5. Not only was it my first time grading, but it also gave me a great benchmark for future submissions. More recently, I sent in the #37 card and received a grade of 5. While it wasn’t as high as my first, I was still happy with the result, considering the card’s age and condition.
I have a 10-card submission at SGC, including the recently acquired #22 card. I’m eager to see the grades I get and continue building my collection. Each card graded feels like a small victory, bringing me one step closer to completing this iconic set.
I plan to stick to my budget and make smart purchasing decisions. The thrill of the hunt is part of the fun, and by setting a budget, I can enjoy the journey without breaking the bank. Plus, it adds an extra layer of strategy to the hobby, making each acquisition even more rewarding.
For those who share my passion for this iconic set, I encourage you to embrace the hunt, savor the victories, and learn from every step. Whether you’re just starting or well on your way, remember that the thrill of collecting is in the journey as much as the destination. Each card has its own story, and as you piece them together, you’re creating a unique narrative that’s all your own.
Stay tuned for more updates, and happy collecting!
