Topps has partnered with artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson to launch an unprecedented series of baseball cards honoring the Negro Leagues. This collaboration has led to the creation of the first-ever Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a project that Johnson describes as one of his proudest moments. The series kicked off with the unveiling of a Satchel Paige card in Kansas City as part of the "Road to Rickwood" initiative.
Each week, leading up to the celebrated Rickwood Classic, a new card will be released, culminating in a special MLB game at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This game and the card series pay tribute to the oldest professional ballpark in the U.S. and the former home of the Birmingham Black Barons. To further honor this historic event, massive 24-foot tall replicas of each card will be displayed at different MLB ballparks nationwide.
About the Artist: Micah Johnson has transitioned from his career in professional baseball to becoming a noted artist with a mission to inspire and empower. His artwork for the Topps series features detailed, hand-drawn portraits of legendary Negro Leagues players, blending artistic craftsmanship with historical homage.
Collectible Features: In addition to the base cards, collectors will have the opportunity to find limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These include:
- Silver Border (/99)
- Blue Border (/49)
- Purple Border (/25)
- Red Border (/10)
- Orange Border (/5)
- Gold Border (/1)
This card series not only celebrates the rich history and legacy of the Negro Leagues but also offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of art that captures the essence of these baseball icons. With new releases every Thursday through June 20, enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating each addition to this historic series.
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