4 Iconic Baseball Cards from 1969 Topps

The 1969 Topps baseball card set isn't always included in the "iconic" lists, or listed as one of the most important sets ever produced, and that's ok - it wasn't. It does, however, include some very important cards to the hobby and may be new to some readers as it's been overlooked to some degree. The white borders and up close photos make for a nice, clean design. It was a massive set - Topps broke its own record by issuing a whopping 664 cards! Just imagine - a kid could walk down to the corner store and buy a pack of 5 cards for just 5 cents! Things have certainly changed. Included in those 5 cent packs were the last card of one legend and the rookie card of another.

Mickey Mantle's career was winding down by 1969 and the Topps card released that year was to be his last. What a career it was - over 500 home runs, 7 World Series championships and a 3 time MVP winner. He announced his retirement around the same time the cards were released. Many collectors chase this card due to its importance as Mantle's last hurrah and also for its classic image of "The Mick" in an at-bat pose.

There is only one major rookie card to be found in this set, but it's a winner. Reggie Jackson was certainly one of the best hitters of his era and was clutch in the postseason, leading to his nickname "Mr. October", which is pretty awesome as far as nicknames go. His 5 World Series rings prove the point!

Nolan Ryan's rookie card was actually released the year before in 1968, but in the minds of many this card is actually better. His rookie card features him alongside 2 other players; his 1969 card shows him solo in a great shot with the nice white borders. Going on eye appeal alone, it's the better choice. When taking into account his legendary record of 5,714 strikeouts, it's still unbelievable that Ryan never won a Cy Young.

This card is easy to find, but not in a high grade. Due to centering problems, they are tough to find in good shape. While not his rookie card, it's highly collectible due to the fact that it was released during his run with the "Miracle Mets" to the World Series in 1969 and also during a fantastic 25-7 season for Seaver.