2017 Topps Cody Bellinger Rookie Cards: Your Ultimate Guide
What's up, baseball card enthusiasts and collectors! Today, we're diving deep into the exciting world of 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger rookie cards. If you're a fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, or just love tracking down those valuable rookie gems, then you're in for a treat. Cody Bellinger burst onto the scene in 2017 with a season that had everyone talking, and his rookie cards from that year are highly sought after. We'll break down the different variations, what makes them special, and why they continue to be a hot commodity in the hobby. So grab your magnifying glass and let's get this show on the road!
The Rise of Cody Bellinger and His Rookie Season
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the cards themselves, let's take a moment to appreciate the player behind them. Cody Bellinger's 2017 rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He made his debut with the Dodgers in April and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. He ended up winning the National League Rookie of the Year award, beating out other talented newcomers. His power-hitting ability, coupled with his solid defense in the outfield and at first base, made him a fan favorite and a key player for the Dodgers. This incredible debut is precisely why his rookie cards from 2017 are so significant. Collectors love to invest in players who show early promise and Bellinger certainly delivered. The buzz surrounding his performance translated directly into demand for his trading cards, setting the stage for what would become a very interesting market for his early issues. It's not just about owning a piece of cardboard; it's about owning a piece of a potential future Hall of Famer's legacy. That electric rookie year cemented his status in the league and in the hearts of many fans, making his rookie cards more than just collectibles – they became symbols of a bright future in baseball.
Key 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger Rookie Card Variations
When we talk about 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger rookie cards, it's important to know that there isn't just one. Topps, as they always do, released several variations that cater to different collectors and budgets. The most common and accessible is the base Topps Rookie Card, often found in packs of Topps Series 1 and Series 2. These are the cards that most people will encounter first. They feature Bellinger in his Dodgers uniform, looking ready to make an impact. Then you have the more premium options, like the Topps Chrome versions. These cards have a distinct metallic finish and are generally considered more desirable due to their higher production value and perceived rarity. Within the Chrome line, you'll find parallels, which are variations of the base Chrome card with different color schemes or numbering. For instance, a Blue Refractor or a Gold Refractor parallel will be significantly rarer and more valuable than the base Chrome. Don't forget about the Printing Plates either! These are extremely rare, representing the actual plates used in the printing process, and are highly prized by serious collectors. Each of these variations offers a unique appeal, whether you're just starting your collection or looking to add a truly rare gem. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions and appreciating the full scope of Bellinger's rookie card offerings from Topps in 2017. It's a treasure hunt out there, guys, and knowing what you're looking for is half the battle!
The Base Topps Rookie Card: A Great Starting Point
Let's kick things off with the foundation: the base 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger rookie card. This is the card you'll find most frequently in packs of 2017 Topps Series 1 and Series 2 baseball cards. It's a fantastic entry point for anyone looking to collect Bellinger's debut issues without breaking the bank. The design is classic Topps, featuring a clean layout with Bellinger in action or a posed shot, proudly wearing his Los Angeles Dodgers uniform. On the back, you'll find his rookie stats and biographical information, a snapshot of his early career. While it might not be the rarest or most visually flashy card, its significance lies in its authenticity as his first official Topps rookie card. For many collectors, simply owning this card is enough to commemorate his rookie year. The availability means it's accessible to a wide audience, making it a popular choice for building a foundational collection. Plus, grading this card can still yield significant value, especially if it achieves a high grade like a Gem Mint 10. It's the bedrock upon which more specialized collections can be built, and its widespread distribution ensures that many fans can own a piece of Bellinger's historic rookie season. It's the most recognizable and, for many, the quintessential Bellinger rookie card.
Topps Chrome and Its Dazzling Parallels
Now, let's talk about stepping up the game with Topps Chrome Cody Bellinger rookie cards. These are a step above the base Topps cards, featuring a glossy, chrome finish that really makes the image pop. The 2017 Topps Chrome set is known for its premium feel and the excitement of finding rare parallels. The base Chrome card itself is a significant pull, often commanding higher prices than its paper counterpart due to the enhanced aesthetics and perceived higher quality. But the real thrill comes with the parallels. These are variations of the base Chrome card, each with unique characteristics. We're talking about the X-Fractor parallels, which have a fractured, rainbow-like pattern, and the Blue Wave parallels, which feature a distinct blue wave design across the card. Then you have the coveted Refractor parallels, which come in various colors and print runs. The Green Refractor (typically /99) and the Blue Refractor (typically /150) are popular choices. Even rarer are the Gold Refractor (typically /50) and the Red Refractor (typically /5). These ultra-rare parallels are the holy grail for many collectors, offering both incredible visual appeal and significant investment potential. Finding a low-numbered Bellinger Chrome parallel from his rookie year is a massive accomplishment and a surefire way to elevate your collection. The craftsmanship and rarity of these Topps Chrome Bellinger rookie cards make them a must-have for serious collectors and investors alike. It's where the real hunt begins, and the rewards can be substantial, guys!
Ultra-Rare Finds: Printing Plates and Advanced Collectibles
For the truly dedicated and deep-pocketed collectors out there, 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger rookie cards also include some mind-blowingly rare options that go beyond standard parallels. We're talking about the Printing Plates. These aren't just variations; they are the actual, literal plates used to print the trading cards. Topps typically releases these in four types for each color: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. Each of these is incredibly scarce, with only one of each existing per card design. Owning a Cody Bellinger Printing Plate means you possess a unique piece of the manufacturing process itself. They are often slabbed by grading companies and are considered ultimate collectibles for the most serious hobbyists. Beyond the printing plates, you might also encounter other advanced collectibles like Superfractors (a 1/1 parallel with a rainbow sheen) or National Championship Logos (if applicable to the set). The rarity of these items is off the charts, and their value reflects that. These ultra-rare Cody Bellinger collectibles are not just about the player; they are about owning a piece of baseball card history. They represent the pinnacle of card collecting, requiring significant resources and a keen eye for spotting true rarities. If you ever stumble upon one of these, you've hit the jackpot, for sure!
Grading Your Cody Bellinger Rookie Cards: Why It Matters
So, you've managed to snag a few 2017 Topps Cody Bellinger rookie cards, maybe a base, perhaps a shiny Chrome, or even, if you're incredibly lucky, a rare parallel. Awesome! Now, what's the next step? For many collectors and investors, the answer is grading. Companies like Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS) are the industry leaders. They meticulously examine your card and assign it a numerical grade, typically on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest (Gem Mint). But why is this so important for your Cody Bellinger rookie cards? Well, a high grade significantly increases a card's value and desirability. A PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 Bellinger rookie card will often be worth many times more than a card with a lower grade, even if they are the exact same card visually. Grading also authenticates the card and protects it within a sealed, tamper-evident case (often called a
