AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a professionally graded and authenticated trading card featuring Mark Gubicza, a former professional baseball pitcher, with his autograph. The card is encased in a rigid, transparent plastic slab, typical for PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) grading, which protects its integrity and displays the certification label prominently at the top. The label indicates 'TRADING CARD', the player's name 'MARK GUBICZA', and 'PSA/DNA CERTIFIED' for the autograph. It also clearly states 'AUTHENTIC AUTO' and bears the PSA certification number '85394482'. The trading card itself appears to be from a 'Metal Universe' series, as indicated by the 'METAL '99 UNIVERSE' logo visible at the bottom right. The card's design features Gubicza in a pitching motion, wearing a Kansas City Royals uniform, against a dynamic, almost iridescent blue and green background, suggesting a holographic or foil finish. His signature in blue ink is prominently placed over his body on the front of the card. The card appears to be in excellent condition, protected by the slab, with no visible wear, tears, or creasing on the card itself. The slab is clean and clear, showing no significant scratching or damage. This item represents a collectible from the late 1990s, likely 1999 given the '99' on the 'Metal Universe' logo. The professional grading and authentication by PSA/DNA add significant value and assurance to the autograph's authenticity. The unique metallic finish and artistic design are characteristic of trading cards from this era, aiming for a premium aesthetic.

I have examined the Mark Gubicza Autographed Trading Card (PSA/DNA Certified) based on the provided image and description. The item presents as a 'Metal '99 Universe' trading card featuring Mark Gubicza in a Kansas City Royals uniform, with a blue ink signature. The card is encased in a PSA slab with 'AUTHENTIC AUTO' certification (PSA/DNA 85394482). Visually, the card appears to be in excellent condition with no discernible wear, creases, or tears, and the metallic/holographic finish is vibrant. The PSA slab itself also appears clean and undamaged. The PSA/DNA certification is a significant factor, providing a high level of assurance regarding the autograph's authenticity, as PSA/DNA is a reputable third-party authenticator. Market conditions for autographed Mark Gubicza items are generally stable but modest. While he was a solid pitcher for a notable period, his cards do not typically command premium values unless they are exceptionally rare or feature significant achievements. The 'Metal Universe' series adds a desirable aesthetic, characteristic of late 90s releases. Demand for Gubicza's autographed cards is primarily driven by Royals collectors or completionists. Rarity for this specific card is moderate; while not mass-produced, it's not a '1 of 1' item. The excellent condition and professional authentication are key value drivers. My valuation is based on similar PSA/DNA-certified autographed Gubicza trading cards and '99 Metal Universe parallels sold in the secondary market. The owner mistakenly mentioned 'Issac Bruce autograph'; I have disregarded this as the item clearly depicts Mark Gubicza. The primary limitation of this appraisal is the reliance on images; a physical inspection would allow for a more thorough examination of the card's surface for any micro-blemishes, print defects, or subtle signs of wear not visible in photographs, which could slightly impact the final condition assessment and thus the value. However, given the PSA encasement and 'AUTHENTIC AUTO' designation, I'm confident in the autograph's veracity. No further scientific testing is needed beyond the existing PSA/DNA certification for authenticity.