The 1996 Bowman Scott Elarton #281 baseball card captures the Houston Astros pitcher during a pivotal era of the franchise. This product details the specific card identity and design context.
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Product Overview
Description
The 1996 Bowman Scott Elarton #281 baseball card stands as a distinct entry in the history of the Bowman brand's glossy design era. Released during a time when Bowman redefined the aesthetic of sports trading cards, this release features a bold, high-contrast border that became synonymous with the mid-90s product line. For collectors of Houston Astros memorabilia, card #281 represents a specific moment in the team's roster during the 1996 season, offering a tangible connection to the players who wore the orange and blue during that campaign.
Scott Elarton, featured on this card, was a notable figure in the Houston Astros' rotation during this period. This design philosophy has made 1996 Bowman cards highly collectible, with enthusiasts often seeking out specific numbers to complete their base sets.
For investors and hobbyists alike, the 1996 Bowman Scott Elarton #281 offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. The card's enduring appeal lies in its clean design and the significance of the Bowman brand in the modern trading card market. Whether you are looking to fill a gap in your Houston Astros collection or add a classic 1990s issue to your portfolio, this card provides a solid foundation. The 1996 Bowman series remains a staple for those who appreciate the transition in card design that defined the decade, making Elarton's inclusion a valuable addition for any serious collector focused on the Astros or the Bowman brand.
Last Listing Activity
9/17/26
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Product Specs
Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Estimated delivery October 2, 2026 - October 4, 2026
Collector Ownership
Owned by Collectors
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0 collectors have this card
SuperCatch Expert Analysis
Market Value Insight
This 1996 Bowman card of Scott Elarton represents a low-tier entry point within the broader Houston Astros and MLB collectible landscape. As a non-rookie, non-specialty base card from a mass-produced set, it commands minimal pricing relative to primary star players. The current market reflects its status as a common, easily accessible item rather than a premium investment piece.
Rarity Breakdown
The card lacks any scarcity mechanics such as serial numbering, short-print designation, or parallel variations. It is identified as a standard base card with no special attributes noted, meaning supply is effectively unlimited relative to collector demand. This lack of distinguishing features places it at the bottom of the rarity hierarchy for the 1996 Bowman product.
Investment Outlook
With no rookie card designation or unique set positioning, the demand drivers for this specific item are minimal. Collectors typically seek this card only for fill-in purposes or to complete base set runs rather than for standalone value appreciation. The outlook suggests stable but negligible growth potential, limited primarily by the sheer volume of identical copies available in the market.
