
Tom Bolton
1989 • Topps
#269
The 1988 Topps #442 Tom Bolton Boston Red Sox baseball card captures a specific moment in MLB history, featuring the pitcher in classic Topps design.
1988 • Topps
Major League Baseball • Boston Red Sox
Excellent
442
New
Shipping Calculated at Checkout
| Condition | Value | Comps | Source | Price Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raw / Ungraded | $1.39Over the last 30 days, stored prices ranged from $1.35 to $1.39 across 2 capture days. Change between Aug 28, 2026 and Sep 12, 2026: 3%. Compares the same source, grade and signed status. Capture days are not completed-sale counts. | 12 | Asking prices Based on eBay Active Listings | Source observation date unavailable |
Tom Bolton appeared as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox during the late 1980s, and the 1988 Topps release documents this period of his career. Card number 442 in the base set is a staple for enthusiasts of vintage baseball memorabilia. This product represents the standard design language of the era, characterized by its clean borders and straightforward player photography that prioritized athlete identity over complex graphics. Collectors often seek this release to complete their 1988 Topps base set or to build specialized collections focused on Boston Red Sox history. As a mass-produced item from a major manufacturer, these cards remain accessible for new hobbyists while holding nostalgic value for long-time fans. The straightforward presentation allows the focus to remain on Bolton’s tenure with the team, making it a relevant piece for those tracking player rosters from this season. Whether you are interested in the broader Topps brand legacy or the specific team context of the Red Sox, this card offers a tangible connection to the sport's past. Building a collection around this era requires attention to the nuances of 1980s manufacturing, where consistency in design helped define the hobby. This card stands as a representative example of that time, offering a clear view of the player without the distractions of modern parallel treatments. For investors and hobbyists alike, understanding the context of this release provides insight into the evolution of sports card collecting.
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Language
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As a 1988 Topps base card for Tom Bolton, this item represents a standard entry-level tier within the vintage baseball market. Its value is anchored by its status as a common parallel in a high-volume production set, meaning it trades at a baseline level compared to premium inserts or rookie cards from the same era. The absence of special attributes keeps its price tier firmly in the accessible range for casual collectors filling out basic sets.
This card lacks any scarcity mechanics such as serial numbering, short-print status, or unique parallels, placing it in the most abundant category of the 1988 Topps product. Being a standard base card means it was produced in the highest quantities, resulting in widespread availability and minimal supply constraints. Consequently, the lack of distinguishing features prevents it from commanding a premium associated with rarer variations.
The card serves primarily as a functional component for set builders rather than a speculative asset, given its position as a non-rookie, base issue. Demand is driven by the need to complete vintage collections rather than player-specific appreciation or grading premiums. Investors should view this as a low-risk, low-reward acquisition suitable for completing a portfolio of 1980s baseball memorabilia.

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