Pete Rose is considered one of the greatest hitters of all time. He played for the Reds, Phillies, and Expos from 1963 to 1986 and amassed 4,256 base hits - an MLB Record.
His rookie and early cards are very sought after and valuable.Let's take a look at some of these vintage Pete Rose cards:
1963 Topps
Card #537
This is the card that is universally considerd to be the primary Pete Rose rookie card.
The 1963 Topps Rookie Stars #537 card is the first major release Pete Rose card. It is one of the most recognizable cards in the hobby.This card in mint condition is valuable and hard to find.
1963 Reds Postcard
This postcard was issued by the Cincinnati Reds organization. It is a very difficult card to find.I consider this a "Postcard Rookie"
The standard sized postcard was only released regionally. Because it's a postcard, many were used and discarded. It's very difficult to find these.
1963 Sports Service Reds
no number
This is an obscure 5"x7" photo that was issued in 1963. Sets for many teams were issued. Rare.I consider this a "Team Issue Rookie."
The Sports Service set was printed from 1961 to 1968 and issued sets for most teams. They are valuable and difficult to find. I consider it a rookie due to the 1963 release date.
1963 French Bauer Milk CAP
This was a 30-cap set released by a Cincinnati-based dairy company. I consider this to be an "Oddball Rookie."
The 1963 French Bauer Reds Pete Rose milk cap is the most unique of items considered to be a Pete Rose Rookie.These were mostly discarded so they are very rare. They can be found on eBay sometimes.
Here's a summary of Rose's early cards.
1963 Reds PostcardI consider this a "Postcard Rookie"
1963 ToppsUniversally considered rookie cards
1963 Sports ServiceI consider this to be a "Team Issue" rookie