1970-71 Topps Connie Hawkins Basketball Card Appraisal
Category: Sports Memorabilia
Description
This item is a 1970-71 Topps Basketball Card featuring Connie Hawkins. The card is encapsulated in a plastic holder, likely for protection or grading, though no grading company mark is clearly visible beyond a faint red horizontal line at the top. The card itself features a portrait of Connie Hawkins, a basketball forward. The design is a vertical format with a light green border surrounding the central image area. A yellow panel with the word "SPORT" is positioned on the left side, running vertically. Above the portrait, a red basketball graphic is depicted alongside the text "1970-71 ALL-STAR" printed in white. Below the basketball graphic and aligned to the right of the "SPORT" panel is "CONNIE HAWKINS FORWARD" in black text. The card exhibits a vintage aesthetic consistent with its stated year of production. While the precise condition of the card is difficult to ascertain fully through the plastic, the visible edges appear relatively sharp, and the color saturation seems good. There are no obvious creases or tears visible through the plastic. The presentation within the plastic holder suggests an attempt to preserve its condition. The quality of printing is typical of cards from this era, showing some slight variations in ink density. No specific manufacturing marks or signatures are discernible beyond the standard card design elements. The card is labeled with "SMALL S - #9" and is listed as "Raw - Near Mint or Better," indicating the seller's assessment of its condition prior to encapsulation.
Appraisal Report
Upon visual examination of the provided image of the 1970-71 Topps Connie Hawkins Basketball Card, encapsulated in a plastic holder, I can offer the following appraisal. The card appears to be authentic based on the design elements, text, and overall aesthetic consistent with the 1970-71 Topps set. Authenticity from an image alone is limited; a physical examination is required to verify the card stock, print quality inconsistencies, and detect any potential alterations. Provenance documentation or scientific testing would provide further verification. The condition, as assessed through the plastic, appears to be Near Mint or better, supporting the seller's description of 'Raw - Near Mint or Better'. Edges seem relatively sharp, and there are no visible creases or tears. Color saturation appears good. The plastic holder likely aids preservation but prevents a full inspection of the surface, corners, and centering, all of which impact value. Connie Hawkins is a notable player from this era, adding to the card's desirability. While not a star rookie card, his inclusion as an 'All-Star' in this set makes it sought after by collectors of vintage basketball cards. Market conditions for vintage basketball cards remain strong, with demand for cards in higher grades being particularly robust. Comparable sales in similar condition would typically fall into a specific range, factoring in the player's significance and the set's popularity. Factors significantly impacting the value include the precise centering and condition, which are difficult to fully ascertain without the card out of the holder. Full authentication requires physical inspection.
Appraisal Value
$40-60