Roberto Clemente
Right Fielder (Note: This is a Baseball Card, not a Football Card) · Pittsburgh Pirates
1987 Topps 'Turn Back the Clock' ##314
Year & Era
1987 — Junk Wax Era (Tribute design to 1972)
Card Type
Insert / Sub-set Tribute Card
Grade
Raw — Appears Good to Very Good (approx. 3-4 scale)
Rarity
Common; mass-produced during the peak of the 1980s junk wax production era.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of 1980s nostalgia featuring a baseball legend. While it holds high historical and sentimental value, its monetary value is minimal due to condition and high original production volume.
Condition Grade
Raw — Appears Good to Very Good (approx. 3-4 scale)
Centering Assessment
Front centering is significantly shifted to the right; top-bottom centering appears relatively stable for the era.
Surface Condition
Surface shows visible dimples and potential vertical scratching near the top edge; colors are reasonably preserved but lack original luster.
Corner Condition
Significant rounding and softening apparent on the top-left and bottom-left corners; white paper loss visible.
Edge Condition
Noticeable chipping along the left vertical edge and minor fraying on the top edge.
Print Quality
Average for 1987; the wood-grain border of the base 1987 set is replicated here, but the inner image is a reproduction of the 1972 Topps design.
Estimated Value
$0.50 - $2.00 USD (Raw); high-grade PSA 10 samples may reach $30, but this copy is low-grade.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is in below-average condition compared to the thousands of Mint copies still circulating in the hobby from unsearched packs.
Authentication Tips
Check for correct card stock thickness and the standard 1987 Topps matte finish; reprints are rare because the card has low monetary value.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of the card in this condition.
Red Flags
No significant red flags regarding authenticity, but the condition indicates heavy handling or poor storage.
Provenance Notes
Distributed in standard 1987 Topps wax packs, cello packs, and rack packs.
Historical Context
This card commemorates Clemente's 1972 season, which was his final year before his tragic death in a plane crash while delivering aid to earthquake victims.
Market Trends
Clemente's original vintage cards are blue-chip investments, but these 1980s tribute cards remain flat in value due to extreme oversupply.
Investment Potential
Low. This is a sentimental 'nostalgia' card rather than a financial investment piece.
Similar Cards
1987 Topps Mark McGwire RC, 1987 Topps Barry Bonds RC, other 'Turn Back the Clock' inserts from the 1980s-90s.
Display & Preservation
A simple penny sleeve and top-loader are sufficient. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the red background.
Interesting Facts
The 'Turn Back the Clock' series was a mainstay in Topps sets for years, helping younger collectors learn about the history of the game.