Learn All About the George Brett Rookie Card

By: Marty Beets

George Brett is considered one of the greatest 3rd basemen of all time.  He played for the Kansas City Royals from 1973 to 1993 and won a batting title in three different decades.

His rookie and early cards are very sought after and valuable. Let's take a look at some of these vintage George Brett cards:

1975 Topps

Card #228

This is the card that most collectors consider to be the primary George Brett rookie card.  

The 1975 Topps George Brett card is the first major release Brett rookie card. This card in mint condition is valuable and hard to find.   There is also a Canadian O-Pee-Chee version of this card.

1975 Topps mini

Card #228

This is smaller version of the regular issue Topps rookie card.  It is more rare and also universally considered a rookie card.

The 1975 Topps mini card is measures only 2.25" x 3.125" instead of 2.5" x 3.5" This Brett rookie is slightly more rare and valuable than the regular issue  rookie card.

'74 Royals Postcard

no number 

This is an obscure oddball team issued postcard. It is considered an oddball rookie. 

The 1974 Royal's postcard was issued by the team. It is 3.25" x 5" in size.  It is the first George Brett's "card" released and pre-dates his 1975 Topps rookie card.

1975 SSPC

Card #167

This is a non-licensed card that wasn't released until 1976.  It is not considered a rookie card

The 1975 SSPC Brett was not licensed by MLB. The copyright date on this card says 1975, but the set wasn't released until 1976.  Because of the release date it should not be considered a rookie. 

Here's a summary of Brett's early cards. 

1974 Royals Postcard Considered an oddball rookie

1975 Topps, OPC & Mini Universally considered rookie cards

1975 SSPC Not considered a rookie