Topps has taken a step into history by launching a groundbreaking series of baseball cards paying tribute to the legendary players of the Negro Leagues. In a unique collaboration, Topps has joined forces with Micah Johnson, an accomplished artist and former MLB player, to create the first-ever Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set.
The project marks a significant milestone for Johnson, who describes this endeavor as one of his proudest moments. The series commenced with the introduction of a Satchel Paige card in Kansas City, as part of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative. This unveiling sets the stage for a series of weekly releases leading up to the highly anticipated Rickwood Classic, scheduled for June 20, 2024 – a special MLB game at the historic Rickwood Field, former home of the Birmingham Black Barons.
In a nod to the past, massive 24-foot tall replicas of each card will be exhibited at various MLB ballparks across the country, further honoring the legacy of the Negro Leagues and the players who graced the field.
Micah Johnson, the talented artist behind the illustrations, has seamlessly transitioned from a career in professional baseball to a renowned artist on a mission to inspire and empower. His intricate, hand-drawn portraits of iconic Negro Leagues players combine artistic finesse with historical reverence, capturing the essence of these baseball legends in each card.
The collectible features of this series extend beyond the base cards, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to obtain limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These include striking variations such as Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and the ultra-rare Gold Border (/1). These parallel cards add an element of exclusivity and desirability to the collection, heightening the excitement for avid collectors.
Not only does this card series honor the significant history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues, but it also provides fans and collectors with a unique chance to own a piece of art that immortalizes the spirit and talent of these baseball icons. With the anticipation building for each new release every Thursday leading up to June 20, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of each addition to this monumental series.
