Set Registry Awards Hall of Fame

The criteria for entry into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame includes set popularity, difficulty, grade average, completion percentage, domination, and degree of competition within the set category.

2021 INDUCTEES

PSA Set Hall of Fame

Alan Rubenstein (Mets-71) - 1971 O-Pee-Chee Baseball
Like its Topps counterpart, the 1971 O-Pee-Chee baseball set is an exceptionally challenging set to collect in high grade due to the unforgiving black borders that amplify every ounce of wear. Add the fact that there are 752 cards in this set that was produced in smaller quantities than Topps and you have a very difficult project. However, this listing has overcome all challenges to become the category’s All-Time Finest entry. It is a nine-time Best of Registry winner and with a GPA of 8.55, this set stands 1.5 points above the next complete entry.

Jim Chanin (Jim's 1914...) - Cracker Jack 1914-1915 Baseball Mega Set
(Note that this induction also includes 2 sub-sets in this collection.)
The 1914 & 1915 Cracker Jack issues are among the most desirable sets in the entire hobby. Issued more than a century ago in the famous candy confection, they hit the mark for beautiful design, legendary checklist and rarity in high grade. This collection is the All-Time Finest on the PSA Set Registry and has been Best of Registry since 2014. It is 100% complete and carries a 7.05 GPA, while no other current entry is halfway finished. The enviable details include the Joe Jacksons in PSA 7, Ty Cobb in PSA 7 & 8, Tris Speaker 8 & 7 and Nap Lajoie 7.5 & 8. It is a stunning assembly of early baseball legends.

Steve Eberhardt (seinbigd) - Post Cereal 1961-1963 Baseball Mega Set
(Note that this induction also includes 4 sub-sets in this collection.)
Little in our hobby presents a greater challenge to collectors than a vintage hand cut set. Typically separated by untrained youngsters wielding dingy kitchen scissors, cards were rarely cut squarely, or with proper dimensions. With luck they avoided being rubber banded together and tossed into a box. And yet there are exceptions, with this entry being among the most significant. This mega set contains 777 cards that span three years, making it tough to even find them all. But this set is 100% complete and has been Best of Registry since 2008. It maintains a 9.57 GPA, more than two full points above the next entry.

Richard Berberian (Barron of Bird/Magic) - Topps Run with Wax Pack 1980-1981 Basketball Mega Set
(Note that this induction also includes 2 sub-sets in this collection.)
With two perforations on each card, the 1980-1981 Topps basketball cards were designed to be ruined. Countless youngsters pulled apart these three-player cards, resulting in smaller, destroyed singles. Yet this entry overcame all issues. The base set was collected in all PSA 10, including the fabled Larry Bird and Magic Johnson rookie card. In fact, the only things keepings this mega set from utter perfection are seven 1980-1981 Topps Pin-Ups found in slightly lower condition. This set is the only example on the Registry at 100% complete. It is an eight-time Best of Registry awardee and maintains a 9.95 GPA.

Steve Eberhardt (seinbigd) - 1962 Post Cereal Football
It is a great achievement to build a Best of Registry set, but to maintain that status for 15 years is another thing completely. Yet that is exactly what the seinbigd set has accomplished with the 1962 Post Cereal issue. Consisting of 200 trading cards that were designed nearly 60 years ago to be hand cut from cereal boxes by youngsters, it is not a simple set to assemble. This All-Time Finest registry set maintains a 9.28 GPA, with highlights in the form of Sam Huff, Sonny Jurgensen, Raymond Berry, Gino Marchetti, Johnny Unitas, Bobby Layne and several other Hall of Famers and short prints in PSA 10.

Gould Collection - 1967 Topps Football
The 1967 Topps football set is truly a classic. It is an AFL-only issue that employs a funky art deco design so appropriate for the era. The set features 132 cards (with two checklists) of the greatest players from “The Other League.” Joe Namath, Len Dawson and Lance Alworth lead the charge, but there is also considerable interest in the rookie card of football-player-turned-pro-wrestler, Wahoo McDaniel. This collection has been a Best of Registry awardee since 2013. It has been painstakingly built with an eye towards perfection. The result is a GPA of 9.64 at 100% completion.

Jeffrey Griffith (GretzkyCards' Calder Trophy) - Calder Trophy Winners
With 42 competitors, the Calder Trophy Winners is the most popular hockey award category on the PSA Set Registry. However, the challenge to build such a collection is immense. The NHL’s version of the Rookie of the Year Award, this trading card collection begins with a 1934 O-Pee-Chee Russ Blinco card and grows annually with each new award winner. This is the only set to reach 100% completion and it maintains a 9.06 GPA. It contains a 1951 Parkhurst Terry Sawchuk in PSA 8.5, 1966 Topps Bobby Orr in PSA 8, 1985 Topps Mario Lemieux in PSA 10 and 55 total top pop entries.

Logan Ward (The Stock Car Museum) - Nascar Racing 1980s Run
(Note that this induction also includes 7 sub-sets in this collection.)
Nine NASCAR trading card issues were issued in the 1980s and they are all required for the completion of this set; the 1983 Uno, 1986 Sportstar Photo-Graphics, 1988 Maxx Charlotte, 1988 Maxx Myrtle Beach, 1989 Maxx Crisco, 1989 Maxx Previews, 1989 Maxx Racing, 1989 Winners Circle, and 1989-90 TG Racing Masters of Racing. It is a challenge that requires the acquisition of 723 cards, and only one collector has ever completed the task on the Set Registry. This collection has a 9.69 GPA and has been Best of Registry since 2013, topping the second place set also owned by the same hobbyist.

Richard L. Mongeau (Richard M.) - 1965 Topps Gilligan's Island
The 1960s were a great time for non-sports cards as sets were issued for many popular television shows of the day. The 1965 Topps Gilligan’s island set is one such release. This 55-cards set features black-and-white images of the entire cast of characters with comical speech bubbles, resulting in a cardboard trip down memory lane for fans of the show. This entry has dominated the competition like no other, winning Best of Registry awards consistently since 2002. It is 100% complete with a 9.05 GPA and only eight cards in this set are not top pop examples.

Al Glaser (TicketCollector) - Daytona 500 (1959-Present) Ticket Set
The Daytona 500 is considered to be the most important and prestigious race on the NASCAR circuit each year. First held in 1959, this race is the first of the season and carries the largest purse for the winner. Like Richard Petty, who has won more Daytonas than any other driver, this ticket collection has pulled ahead of the pack and does not appear to be giving up ground. This All-Time Finest accumulation is the first and still only entry on the Set Registry to reach 100% completion. The category leader since 2013, the award-winning collection maintains a 5.56 GPA.

HONORED MEMBERS

PSA Collector Hall of Fame

Dr. Jay Swartz (2019)
Earning induction into a Hall of Fame, by definition, is not an easy task. Whether the hall of fame is athletic, business, literary or trading card in nature, induction is only reserved for the top-most participants. Such is the case here today. There are thousands of amazing sets in our hobby and hundreds of incredible collectors. We recognize many of them with annual awards, but only a very small handful of collectors have immersed themselves so deeply in the hobby and set registry that they earn induction into the PSA Collector Hall of Fame.Today we honor the efforts of a rare type of collector. Some hobbyists are narrowly-focused on a particular sport, while others may be interested only in sets from their childhood. Still others prefer to collect individual players, while another group eschews sports altogether and instead has an affinity for the variety offered in the non-sports genre. Very infrequently does a single collector not only build sets in all of these areas, but does so with quality and completion as overarching goals. Dr. Swartz, however, is one such collector. His collection consists of nearly 29,000 PSA graded cards that cover a range of 331 different sets. He holds a Top-10 ranking in 194 of those sets, and of those 331 sets, he has greater than 95% completion in 241 of them.The breadth is certainly amazing, but the diversity of his collection is truly something to admire. His baseball holdings include 1951 Bowman, 1954 Red Man Tobacco with Tabs Master, 1959 Fleer Ted Williams, 1971 Kellogg’s and Ted Kluszewski Basic Player sets. Basketball sets run from 1948 Bowman through 1979 Topps, and his football collections include a range from 1948 Bowman through 1972 Topps. His non-sports sets consist of several classics from the 1950s and 1960s, while his individual card listings include top players from sets dating back to the 1887 Old Judge issue. A collection of this degree cannot be accomplished without an intense dedication not only to the acquisition of cards, but also to the accumulation of knowledge and the detailed record-keeping necessary for such a vast project. This is an effort, and collection, worthy of hall of fame recognition.This year, we recognize the man behind the collection. It is with great pleasure that we welcome Dr. Swartz to our PSA Collector Hall of Fame in 2019.

Logan Ward (2018)
The PSA Set Registry is rapidly approaching its 20th birthday, which is hard to imagine for those of us who have been around since the beginning. Time really does fly when you’re having fun. Our Collector Hall of Fame has welcomed a diverse mix of hobbyists since it first opened its doors. Some have gained entry due to sheer dominance of a genre while others have amassed vast collections that would take up an entire wing of a house. We have recognized very private, mild-mannered personalities and those who would put the late Robin Williams to shame. Our hobby features people from all walks of life, which is part of what makes collecting so fun. No matter what you’re interested in or what type of personality you have, the passion for the collectibles is shared by everyone involved. When it comes to collecting passion, it’s hard to imagine a hobbyist that embodies that more than this year’s inductee – Logan Ward. In 2017, we recognized Logan Ward’s collection, which is comprised of nearly 6,000 PSA and PSA/DNA-certified items, specializing in one major area – auto racing. It remains one of the most popular spectator sports in America. Beyond the thousands of PSA-graded racing cards that reside in Logan’s collection, other certified collectibles such as autographs from the men behind the wheel and tickets to the most illustrious events help take it to another level. This year, we recognize the man behind the collection. Logan is the kind of person who bleeds collecting. He is proud of his chosen endeavor and quick to share his experience with others, which is evidenced by his consistent activity on social media. If Logan isn’t buying a new card or autograph, he’s cultivating another collector. Logan displays his sizable collection throughout his home, while portions of it have resided at the NASCAR Hall of Fame...so it can be viewed and appreciated not only himself, but others as well. Beyond what he owns, Logan’s efforts as a hobby ambassador are what separate him from most and it’s something PSA appreciates about him very much. It is with great pleasure that we welcome Logan to our PSA Collector Hall of Fame in 2018.

Jim Chanin (2017)
In 2016, Jim Chanin’s terrific amassment of cards was recognized as the “Best Collection of the Year” during our special awards selections. Chanin’s commitment to completion is evident throughout the Registry, as virtually every one of his sets requires zero cards…and there are dozens of them. Many of the iconic sets he owns rank inside the top 5, proving that quality is just as important to this standout collector. From T206 to Cracker Jacks to Goudeys, the prewar baseball segment of Chanin’s collection is most impressive. DeLong, Diamond Star, Play Ball, Ramly and more are set names that can be found within this small mountain of cardboard dominated by the likes of Ty Cobb, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth. Some of his sets rank as the finest ever registered on the site, including the incredibly tough 1911 Turkey Red Cabinet and 1914 Cracker Jacks sets. Any hobbyist will tell you that neither challenge is for the faint of heart. Even his Exhibit card run, one that is gaining momentum in the marketplace, remains unmatched. While prewar baseball is at the core of his collection, we can’t forget about his highly-rated 1952 Topps set, one that owns a GPA north of PSA 8. Chanin’s fine collection goes beyond baseball too. There are multi-sport sets like the classic 1932 U.S. Caramel and 1933 Goudey Sport Kings, boxing sets like the T9 cabinets to some extremely difficult non-sports issues such as 1938 Gum Inc. Horrors of War that give Chanin’s collection diversity and depth. For these reasons and more, we welcome Chanin to our PSA Collector Hall of Fame in 2017.

Jim Doyle (2017)
Collector Jim Doyle’s 2017 induction represents a first in our Registry’s history. Doyle becomes the first autograph collector to be enshrined in our PSA Collector Hall of Fame. During the Registry’s 16-year history, most of the accolades have gone to trading cards. This is simply a product of the market. There are so many card sets and collecting themes available in that world versus other memorabilia markets. It is simply the nature of the beast. In terms of sheer volume, no other sports collectible can compete with cards. While that may be true, some of the most interesting and valuable collectibles in the hobby reside in other segments. This includes autographs, a developing parent category on the Registry. Doyle has become one of the recognized leaders in that genre, with a heavy focus on autographed mediums that can be encapsulated by PSA/DNA. Over time, signed trading cards, postcards, index cards, checks and more have become increasingly popular with our growing customer base. Doyle’s leadership in this field and focus on quality is what made him an obvious choice this year. For starters, Doyle’s 1964-present Yellow Hall of Fame Plaque Postcards set is not only 100% complete with 164 items at the time of the awards deadline, it has a stellar GPA of 9.61. In addition, the artwork of Dick Perez is on full display in Doyle’s collection. Complete Perez-Steele postcard sets include everything from the 1980-2001 Hall of Fame (9.97 GPA) to the 1985-1997 Great Moments (perfect 10 GPA) to the 1989 Celebration set (perfect 10 GPA). He continues to work on other sets, like the incredibly tough Albertype/Artvue Black and White Hall of Fame Plaques, with over 90% completion. Ironically, Doyle’s entry into the Registry started with cards. He assembled one of the best 1958 Topps Master Sets ever registered, one that is already enshrined in our Hall of Fame with a GPA of 8.86. Now, he is focused on the collectibles that possess that personal touch. With this breakthrough, Doyle has paved the way for other autograph collectors in the future.

Ron Gates (2016)
Last year this standout collector came away with our award for Best Collection of the Year after putting together one of the finest golf card collections in the hobby. While his collection is certainly not limited entirely to golf, Ron Gates has made this sport the foundation of his fine collection. In 2016, it is our pleasure to add him to our PSA Set Registry Collector Hall of Fame. Just in terms of sheer size, the collection of Ron Gates is impressive, containing over 20,000 PSA-graded cards. What is perhaps most impressive is his dedication to completion, which is what set building is all about. Gates has a seemingly infinite number of complete sets registered. As we mentioned earlier, he is also a clear leader within a particular genre. Some of his stellar golf sets include, but are certainly not limited to, 1900 Cope’s Golfers, 1901 Odgen’s Ltd. Guinea Gold, the 1912 Gallaher Ltd. Sports Series, 1914 Marsuma Famous Golfers, 1925 Imperial Tobacco, 1927 Millhoff Famous Golfers, the extremely popular Churchman issues from 1927 and 1931, 1981 and 1982 Donruss and 1998 Champions of Golf - Masters Collection. There are many more and he continues to add new cards and sets to the registry. In some cases, Gates own multiple sets of the very same issue.One of the beauties of collecting golf cards is that it is a sport that has been captured on cardboard for over 100 years. You can really digest the evolution and history of golf through a collection like the one Gates has built. It starts with issues from the late 19th century such as the interesting 1897 J. Baines set and extends through the early 21st century to the various SP and Upper Deck sets released in the 2000s. There are traditional card sets and autographed cards sets, player sets and specialty sets with different themes. The icons are all here. Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Bobby Jones, Harry Vardon, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Tiger Woods are just some of the names. The collection even covers the current crop of talent that has carried the sport into the 21st century. For his dedication to set building and his leadership in the golf card segment of the hobby, we feel that Gates is a great addition to our elite group of fine collectors.

Rich Katz (Movin' On Up) (2015)
For well more than a decade, the registry has been growing at a brisk pace as more and more collectors join our community.During that time, it has been a pleasure to witness some of the incredible collections enter our online program. Just when you think you have seen it all, the hobby has a way of reminding us that you never know what’s around the next corner. In 2015, PSA is proud to induct hockey collector Rich Katz into our registry Hall of Fame. As is the case with our past inductees, there was never any hesitation about Katz’s qualifications or merit.In addition to the thousands of PSA-graded cards Katz has registered on our website, the quality of his sets is simply spectacular. Katz has dozens of complete sets ranked at or near the top of various categories. To give you an idea of the quality, here’s a glimpse at the type of sets in his wonderful collection. Katz owns the #1 sets in the following categories with the current GPA in parenthesis: 1910 Sweet Caporal Postcards (7.05), 1911 C55 Master (7.46), 1924 Champs Cigarettes – C144 (7.26), 1958 Topps (8.24), 1959 Topps (8.75), 1961 Topps (9.05), 1962 Topps (9.03), 1963 Topps (8.91), 1964 Topps Tall Boys (8.84), 1966 Topps (8.35), 1970 O-Pee-Chee Master (8.88), 1971 O-Pee-Chee (9.30) and many more. This represents just a small portion of his fine collection. In addition to his top-ranked manufacturer sets, Katz also owns several great specialty sets and player runs, like the #1 Gordie Howe, Bobby Hull and Bobby Orr Basic sets. Furthermore, Katz owns the finest Mega-Set runs for 1950s and 1960s hockey cards, which require hundreds of cards by themselves. The list goes on and on, but the consistent theme is the exquisite level of quality, whether the set is based on cards, stickers, stamps or panels. For being a leader in his selected genre, possessing a simply outstanding overall collection and acting as an ambassador for the hobby, we are pleased to welcome collector Rich Katz to our Hall of Fame.

Bob Fisk (2014)
Last year, PSA recognized Bob Fisk for our Collection of the Year award. This year, without any hesitation, we are happy to induct him into our PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame in 2014. In addition to owning a tremendous number of PSA-graded cards and registering them on the site, nearly 17,000 in all, Fisks’ approach to collecting really embodies what the online venue is all about – completion. Despite having dozens of sets registered on the site, with the exception of just a handful of sets, Fisk’s completion percentage in virtually every case is 90%-100%. In fact, the vast majority of his sets are 100% complete (over 85% of them). That is what the registry is all about. No matter what set you collect or what level of quality you can afford, the endeavor is about establishing a theme and working towards the goal of checking off every item on that list. This plays a big part in the personal satisfaction for the collector. Fisk’s body of collecting work provides a great model for aspiring hobbyists. In addition, Fisk’s interests cover decades of card manufacturer production. From the 1940s to the 1990s, Fisk owns many important sets and most of them boast high-grade GPAs in the PSA NM 7 to PSA Mint 9 range. Beyond massive mainstream runs like 1948-1955 Bowman baseball, 1951-1975 Topps baseball, Fisk has assembled a terrific array of difficult regional and Test issues. These include 1954 Wilson Franks to the 1968 Topps 3-Ds to the 1985 Topps Minis. There are Dan Dee, Bell Brand, Hires, Morrell Meats, Kahns and Kellogg's cards to boot. The list goes on and on. From the mainstream classics to the elusive and obscure, the collection is outstanding in many respects as a result of the dedication of this focused collector.

Thomas Tull (2014)
On occasion, a collector comes along and makes such a major impression that there is simply no purpose in waiting to induct him into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame. That was the case with mega-collector Thomas Tull. While Tull’s collection became part of the registry over the past year, his passionate pursuit of collectibles is not new. Tull has been an avid collector for quite some time, but he decided to make a portion of his collection viewable to the public by listing it on the site in 2014. The result changed the registry in a major way as some of Tull’s newly listed sets immediately rose to the top of the rankings. Some of the finest sets ever registered on our site belong to Tull and several of them can be found in the hobby’s most iconic categories. At the time of the awards deadline, Tull owned the top 1909-11 T206, 1933 Goudey, 1941 Play Ball and 1951 Bowman baseball sets just to name a few. Some of his individual cards are also the finest known of their kind like his 1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig #92, 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle #253 and 1954 Topps Hank Aaron #128 – all in PSA Gem Mint 10s. This is a mere sampling of the sheer power in Tull’s card collection. While Tull is being honored for what is actually part of the PSA Set Registry, his incredible baseball collection is so much more than what is listed on the site. It goes well beyond baseball cards. The same standard of quality seen in his vast card collection is applied to everything Tull acquires. From bats to jerseys to autographs, Tull’s collection represents some of the finest baseball collectibles residing in private hands. For more information on Thomas Tull and his stellar collection, please click here.

Brian Karl (2013)
Last year, we recognized Brian Karl for his vast collection, a collection that helped him take home the 2012 Collection of the Year award. With nearly 20,000 PSA-graded cards, it is vast indeed. The core of his collection centers on two primary genres - baseball and non-sports - with a nice balance between the two subjects. His non-sports collection is one of the best in the business, containing virtually all the classics like 1935 Mickey Mouse, 1938 Horrors of War, 1940 Lone Ranger, 1940 Superman, 1959 Fleer Three Stooges, 1962 Topps Mars Attacks, 1965 Topps Test King Kong, all the 1964 Topps Beatles sets...all the 1966 Topps Batman sets. It goes on and on and on....and many of his sets rank in the upper echelon of their specific category. Karl has been a real leader in the non-sports arena, a segment of the graded card market that continues to grow. When it comes to his baseball sets, it is more of the same. Karl owns many complete Bowman and Topps sets, ranging from 1948 Bowman through late-1960s Topps sets. Most of them are complete and rank high on the registry, in PSA 8 or better condition. He has classic prewar sets like 1934-36 Diamond Stars but also has a huge variety of regional sets, from the 1950s to the 1980s. They include, but are not limited to, Red Man Tobacco, Red Hearts, Bazookas, Bell Brand, Post Cereal and a ton of Kellogg's sets. He even has a perfect 1984 Donruss set, with all the cards graded PSA 10. The sets listed above are just a mere sampling of what lies in Karl's great collection, but it provides enough information to give the reader an idea of its diversity and level of quality. For all of the reasons listed above and more, we are pleased to induct Karl into the PSA Collector Hall of Fame in 2013.

D'Orsay Bryant, III, M.D. (2011)
In 2010, Bryant received the award for Collection of the Year and this year it is time to enshrine him along with other top collectors in the registry. His collection is filled with thousands of PSA graded basketball cards, both vintage and modern…and his collection keeps growing each and every year. From his 1969 and 1970 Topps Tall Boy sets, which both carry overall GPAs of PSA Mint 9 or better, to hundreds and hundreds of Gem Mint 10 examples from the post-1970-present era (including perfect PSA 10 sets of 1986 and 1987 Fleer cards), Bryant only collects the best in terms of quality. His affable nature has endeared him to the other hobbyists who have the pleasure of knowing him and, as someone who has such a strong presence in modern sportscards, Bryant becomes the first inductee to represent the post-1970 era in a significant way.

David Hall (2011)
It is time to recognize someone who not only deserves accolades for the collection he once owned, but also for being the person who dreamt-up the concept of the registry itself. Starting with the collection, consider this; Hall once owned the following sets: In baseball, a 1948-1955 Bowman run, including the tough 1953 Black and White issue. Starting with 1951 Blue and Red backs, he compiled a Topps run from 1951-1957. This run, of course, contained the finest 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle on the planet in PSA Gem Mint 10, which sold for a record of $121,000 in 1997. To round out the baseball run, he owned the 1948 Leaf, 1954 Dan-Dee, 1954 Red Heart, 1954 Wilson Franks sets. Continuing with basketball, he owned The Big Three (1948 Bowman, 1957 Topps and 1961 Fleer). From the world of football, he owned the 1935 National Chicle set along with a Bowman run from 1948-1955, including both the large and small sets from 1952, both the 1948 and 1949 Leaf sets and Topps sets from 1955-1957. Finally, he owned a 1948 Leaf set of boxing cards for good measure. You are probably wondering why he focused so much on the 1948-1957 time period. When asked, Hall will tell you that this was the period where he remembers following his idols all the way from his years in little league to high school. This is a time when many of us are most impressionable. The vast majority of the sets were comprised of high-grade cards and several of his sets still rank in the top 10 within their respective categories today. Well before PSA became a successful business, David Hall had to make a tough decision. Challenged by some in the anti-grading establishment during the mid-1990s, Hall decided to put PSA first by selling off his entire collection in 1996 and 1997, putting to rest any notion of a conflict of interest. Keep in mind that PSA had not yet turned a profit at the time this decision was made and it was a difficult one because Hall is a true collector. That said, he believed in what PSA could do for the hobby and persevered despite years of struggling to gain acceptance. To put this in perspective, PSA didn't grade its 1,000,000th card until 1998. Since that time, PSA has graded 1,000,000 or more cards per year, every year. A couple of years after selling off his prized collection, Hall developed the PCGS Set Registry for coins. Soon thereafter, PSA followed suit and the rest is history. At this time, PSA has certified nearly 18 million items and the PSA Set Registry is more than 64,000 collections strong. As tough as it must have been at the time, I think it is clear Hall made a wise decision and all of us are beneficiaries of his vision.

Marty Quinn (2010)
The non-sports segment of the PSA Set Registry continues to flourish. It is clear that the popularity of non-sports cards is here to stay. From historical figures to entertainment icons to pure fantasy, some non-sports card issues can offer a combination of scarcity and eye-appeal that goes far beyond anything we find in sportscard collecting. One of our first inductees into the Set Registry Hall of Fame, renowned non-sports collector Bill Bengen, was honored just a couple of years ago. It is our pleasure to induct another significant figure from the world of non-sports in Marty Quinn. Marty's collection is not only vast, as he has registered well over 100 sets with PSA, he had also been an ambassador of the registry program itself as well as grading. It is clear that Marty is a true collector. If you talk to Marty about this trading card genre, his passion for the cards comes shining through. Marty has dozens of top-ranked non-sports sets, from over seven decades of production, including ultra-popular issues like the 1935 Mickey Mouse and 1940 Lone Ranger sets. The latter is a fantastic set that was honored in 2010 for being the finest of its kind.

Michael Rakosi (2009)
One of the wonderful things about the registry is the fact there is such a diversity of sets and collections from which to choose when each awards season comes along. Much like the National Baseball Hall of Fame, there are different ways one can become enshrined. Some collectors have done this through persistence and volume as some baseball players have reached Cooperstown through longevity and consistency, amassing impressive career numbers. Hall of Fame pitchers like Don Sutton come to mind. Other collectors can do this through quality and dominance, much like pitcher Sandy Koufax did before his career was cut short prematurely. This year’s inductee, Michael Rakosi, represents the latter. No, he does not own 50,000 PSA graded cards and he never will. Rakosi has a specific interest and that interest is in the most important basketball cards in the hobby. When it comes to all the key basketball issues, no one comes close. From The Big Three in 1948 Bowman, 1957 Topps and 1961 Fleer, to the scarce 1968 Topps Test set to a collection of all the Hall of Fame rookie cards and more, Rakosi has the finest set in every major category he participates in. In addition to his incredible card collection, Rakosi exemplifies what collecting is all about because he has a real passion for what he does and everyone who knows him can attest to it. Simply put, Rakosi has the best basketball card collection on earth, making him an easy selection for the Hall of Fame in 2009.

William Bengen (2008)
Since the beginning of the PSA Set Registry in 2002, every Hall of Fame inductee has come to us from the world of sportscard collecting. Of course, this is no surprise since sports, particularly baseball, seem to dominate the want lists of most trading card aficionados. As the registry has matured along with the graded card market in general, there is no question that the sports category is not the only game in town when it comes to card collecting. Whether it is due to the appeal of fantasy, historical reflection or for sheer entertainment value, non-sports sets bring a level of diversity that you simply cannot find in any sport, even if you combine them all. The card productions come from the worlds of fiction and non-fiction. There are aliens, war heroes, super heroes, television stars, music legends, classic cars, cartoon characters and so much more. While the subject matter of the cards is not always of a serious matter, non-sports cards have never been taken more seriously as new price records continue to be established at auction. William Bengen, last year’s Best Collection of the Year, has been chosen to pave the way for so many other collectors who share his love for non-sports cards. Bengen’s immense collection is made up of, primarily, sets from the 1950s and 1960s and the collection is as diverse as the non-sports category itself. Bengen can be found near the top of many categories including non-sports classics like 1956 Topps US Presidents, 1959 Fleer Three Stooges, 1962 Topps Civil War News and 1964 Topps Beatles Color sets just to name a few. His collection is filled with dozens of great sets from the non-sports world, spanning decades of card production. It is our pleasure to induct Bengen, a leader in the genre and a real gentleman, into the PSA Collector Hall of Fame in 2008. Bengen’s efforts are sure to inspire new generations of collectors, exposing them to an entirely different option in the graded card community. Bengen provides proof that grading is not just for sportscards anymore.

Stephen Soloway M.D (2007)
Dr. Soloway is a symbol for set building. He may not be at or near the top of many individual categories but his focus is on completion, the true essence of set collecting. While he generally doesn't steal the headlines as a collector, people forget that he was the first person to complete the 1909-11 T206 Baseball set, which is no small accomplishment. Soloway is also the first person to complete the Top 10 Baseball Card Classics, another set featuring 10 of the most important cards in the hobby. When you look at the sheer size of his collection and its diversity, coupled with the fact that he is such an outstanding advocate for set collecting, we were ecstatic to add Soloway to our exclusive list of HOF collectors. To read more about Stephen Soloway, click here.

Donald E. Spence (2007)
Donald Spence has one of the finest known baseball card collections on the planet. His collection starts with 19th Century baseball cards with 1887 (N28) Allen and Ginter and it continues for decades through 1970 Topps. The one thing that all of his sets have in common is quality; it is the universal theme to his collection. If you are looking at a category that Spence participates in, most likely, you will see his name somewhere near the top. In fact, as our Mega-Set categories expand, it will be hard to imagine many collectors competing with him. You cannot help but be impressed with the amazing quality of his sets. When you couple that fact with the magnitude of his collection, Spence was an easy choice to join our distinguished group of collectors.

Jim Crandell (Davalillo) (2006)
During the past few years, you may have noticed a pattern in our selection for those who are inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame. Usually, after the individual collector has been recognized in the previous year in the Collection of the Year category, that collector is then inducted the following year into the HOF. In 2006, that pattern was broken and our decision to break that pattern was, in essence, made for us. When you consider the sheer magnitude of Jim Crandell's collection, the quality and the totality of its parts, we simply had no choice but to recognize the great collector. We could not make Jim wait, like they do in MLB with their 5-year post retirement requirement, nor should we. Jim's collection speaks for itself. With dozens upon dozens of registered sets, in a variety of sports (including some non-sports), Jim has accumulated one the hobby's best collections of trading cards. As one of the graded card market's collecting pioneers, Jim has put together beautiful sets from so many of the hobby's most important issues, including traditional, regional and player-based sets. Jim's amassment of graded sets includes such classic issues as the 1952 Bowman Small Football, 1952 Topps Baseball and 1948 Bowman Basketball sets but it also contains tough non-traditional sets like 1954 Dan-Dee Potato Chips Baseball and 1964 Topps Stand-Up Baseball. With such a vast collection already built and with an activity level that has not ceased, we are proud to add Jim Crandell to the list of current PSA Set Registry HOF inductees.

Don Louchios (2005)
Don Louchios has compiled a collection that is arguably the best, pound-for-pound, in the hobby. Quality is a constant. While Don's collection contains many of the classics like The Big Three (T206's, 1933 Goudeys and 1952 Topps), he has also made an effort to diversify his collection by assembling non-traditional sets like the ultra-tough 1950 Drake's and 1964 Topps Stand-Up baseball issues. In addition, Don does not limit himself to baseball. He has the finest 1935 National Chicle football set on the registry and one of the best 1933 Goudey Sport Kings sets as well. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect to Don's collection is the fact that it is constantly growing and improving. Don is a very active PSA Set Registry member and seemingly far from ending his hobby journey. As the years go by and Don's collection reaches new heights, the hobby will be watching. It has certainly been amazing to watch so far and, this year; it was time to induct such a great collector into our PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame.

Charles M. Merkel (2004)
Last year, renowned collector Marshall Fogel took home our most prestigious award. This year, the attention turns to a man who has assembled another amazing collection, who was the recipient of the 2003 Best Collection of the Year award - Charlie Merkel. To say that Charlie Merkel has a great collection is an understatement. He is at the top of some of the most important sets in hobby history including 1915 Cracker Jack, 1932 US Caramel, 1933 Goudey, 1934-36 Diamond Star, 1952 Topps, 1948-1950 Bowman baseball and 1952 Bowman baseball. In addition, Charlie is near the top of so many other key sets like 1951 Bowman baseball, 1953 Bowman baseball and more. With so many key sets, Charlie's level of quality is simply amazing. It is also important to point out that Charlie is one of the few collectors who actually kept his original collection from childhood. Many of those cards are not registered today but he still owns them. I think Charlie has done a pretty good job of upgrading - don't you?

Marshall Fogel (2003)
We couldn't be more pleased to announce that our inaugural inductee into our PSA Collector Hall of Fame is this man - Marshall Fogel. Marshall has not only assembled an unmatched collection in terms of quality and volume but he has also been a great advocate for the hobby - willing to share his enthusiasm and knowledge with all who cross his path. From Goudeys, to Play Balls, to Leafs, to Bowmans, to a ton of Topps sets and more, Fogel has covered a massive map that extends through decades of baseball card manufacturing. No other collector has reached so high and wide in his card collecting pursuits. For that, it is our pleasure to recognize Mr. Fogel as the first member in this our most prestigious and exclusive club. Congratulations Marshall!

PSA Set Hall of Fame

Jim Chanin (Jim's) (2020) - Goudey Baseball 1933-1941 - Basic
(Note that this induction also includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection.)
The Goudey Gum Company produced some of the most iconic baseball cards of the early 20th Century. Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx and Joe DiMaggio can all be found on Goudey issues. These legends and a long list of their Hall of Fame contemporaries are passionately chased in any condition. This collection is incredible not only for its 478-card size and fact that it is the only completed entry, but also for its 12.88 weighted GPA. It has been on first place in the PSA Set Registry leader since 2017 and stands head and shoulders above all competition.

Josh Alpert (Tarjetas Imposibles '66) (2020) - 1966 Venezuela Topps Baseball
In English, Tarjetas Imposibles literally means impossible cards. An apt name considering that to complete this set, one must collect 370 different cards that were produced more than 50 years ago and distributed in a Spanish-speaking foreign country some 2,700 miles away. This set has been the category leader since 2009 and is a true hobby marvel. Not only was completion accomplished, but it was done with a GPA of 6.40. Including Mays, Mantle, Koufax and many more stars of the day, the Venezuelan Topps sets are among the most difficult of post-war hobby challenges.

Michael Rakosi (Three for the Ages) (2020) - The Big Three Basketball Mega Set
Collecting The Big Three is not a task for the faint of heart. The three premier vintage basketball card sets are required for completion and each is jam-packed with legendary rookies and high-grade challenges. You might say that George Mikan, Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain rookie cards are the big three of The Big Three, and each is found here in PSA Mint 9 condition. In total, this 218-card accumulation has a weighted GPA of 10.52. It has been a category leader on the PSA Set Registry since 2007 and enjoys a comfortable lead over the competition.

Jonathan J. Feucht - (Maverick's) (2020) - 1961 Fleer Football
Featuring players from the longstanding NFL and fledgling AFL, the 1961 Fleer football set offers collectors the best of both worlds. Loaded with classic football imagery, Series One is populated by icons with names like Unitas, Brown and Starr. In just their second season of existence, Maynard, Otto, Kemp and the rest of “The Other League” had decidedly less-exciting photos on their Series Two pasteboards. The complete 220-card set can be found here, in the finest listing on the PSA Set Registry. One hundred percent complete and boasting a 9.58 GPA, this set has been a category leader since first claiming the top spot in 2011.

Jim Ragsdale (Bigjimmi's) (2020) - 1977 Topps Mexican Football
Building high grade card sets is difficult enough, but the challenge takes on a whole new dimension when the set in-question contains more than 500 cards and was issued in a foreign country more than 40 years ago. Quality control, inferior card stock and a host of short prints are the challenges that face the collectors of this issue, which makes this particular listing all the more impressive at 528 cards and boasting a weighted GPA of 8.25. This 1977 Topps Mexican football set has been a PSA Set Registry leader since 2013 and enjoys a commanding lead in its category

Stephen Barr, M.D. (SMB's) (2020) - Walter Payton Master Set
(Note that this induction also includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection.)
Consisting of 238 cards covering the playing career of Chicago Bears legend, Walter Payton, this collection is absolute Sweetness! Incredibly, 229 of the 238 items in this set are assembled here in the highest current grade; a whopping 76 of them are 1/1 top-pop examples. The items were produced over a 13-year period and issued through multiple channels and products. Still, this incredible collection maintains a weighted GPA of 9.52. There could be no finer cardboard tribute to Walter Payton, a Chicago icon and American legend.

Joester-Joseph R. Henninger, III (2020) - Topps Hockey 1960s Run
(Note that this induction also includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection.)
Collecting a card set is one thing. Collecting a decade’s worth of card sets is another. The 1960 Topps Hockey Run requires a staggering 1,030 card for completion and only one collector on the PSA Set Registry has ever accomplished the feat. Not only are more than 1,000 cards present and PSA graded, but quality has not been compromised for quality. This accumulation has a weighted GPA of 10.39. The category leader since 2017, this set shows no signs of relinquishing the title

Logan R. Ward (The Stock Car Museum) (2020) - 1988 Maxx Charlotte Racing Basic & Master Sets
How does one top perfection? It is simply not possible. This set has been the PSA Set Registry leader since 2007 and it will never be bested. There are 104 cards necessary to complete this set and they are assembled here in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition. The numerous rookies and top cars are impressive, but this set has pulled ahead of all others because of the exceptionally difficult Mentions 100 Cover Card. This card has a total Pop of one, and it is the perfect specimen contained within this set. Break out the checkered flag, because with a weighted GPA of 10.0, this set has crossed the finish line ahead of all others.

Bob Oliver (Olivertwistnc) (2020) - 1966 Topps Batman Complete Set
Holy cardboard! In an exceptionally competitive area, this 1966 Topps Batman set has foiled all the rest! Little more than a single point separates the top four listings on the PSA Set Registry, but with a GPA of 9.0 and 100% completion, this listing outshines all others like the Bat Signal illuminating a dark stormy night. Batman and Robin battle the Penguin, The Joker, The Riddler, Cat Woman and Gotham City’s most fiendish felons throughout this 281-card Topps issue that is illustrated with classic images from the mid-60s television show.

David Peck (dpeck100) (2020) - Wrestling All Stars 1982-1983 Set
(Note that this induction also includes the 3 sub-sets in this collection.)
Domination is a word sometimes used too flippantly, but this is not one of those cases. The collector of the highest-graded Wrestling All-Stars 1982-1983 set on the PSA Set Registry owns four of the top five all-time entries in the category. All of the masters of wrestling mayhem are included; Hunk Hogan, Ernie Ladd, Junk Yard Dog, the Iron Sheik, Andre the Giant and 103 more of the greatest grapplers in modern memory can be found in this collection. Boasting a 9.57 weighted GPA, this set body slams all of the rest

Richard Berberian (Barron of Bird/Magic) (2019) - 1980-81 Topps Basketball Set
Issued with three perforated “cards” per panel, this set was not designed to stay in pristine condition. As if that were not challenge enough, it includes the legendary dual-player rookie card with Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. Yet here it is, nearly 30 years after its release. This is the first-and-only 1980-81 Topps Basketball Set on the PSA Set Registry in PSA 10 across the board. All 176 cards in PSA Gem Mint 10, with an overall set GPA of 10.0. Simply stunning and utterly perfect.

Jim Chanin (Jim's) (2019) - 1922 American Caramel (E120) Baseball Set
Thin card stock and numerous Hall of Fame members in a nearly century-old set is a combination of challenges that could scare away even the most dedicated of collectors. That is exactly what faces anyone attempting the 1922 American Caramel E120 set, and yet the allure of these beautiful cards is still too strong for some brave hobbyists. Only one complete set currently resides in the PSA Set Registry, and it has been at the top of the category for three years. Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, George Sisler, Walter Johnson, Grover Alexander, Rogers Hornsby and all the rest with a set GPA of 5.97.

Michael Frank (hockeywax) (2019) - 1954-55 Topps Hockey Set
Many knowledgeable hobbyists consider the 1954-55 set to be the most attractive set of hockey cards that Topps has ever produced. Action player images are set upon a white background, with simple red and blue banners at the bottom and team logos in a top corner. The result is a crisp and classic design. The 60-card set is also rich with legendary players, further endearing it to collectors. This stunning PSA Set Registry entry maintains an 8.30 GPA and contains no card graded lower than a PSA 8.

Gould Collection (2019) - 1961 Topps Football Set
The 1961 Topps football release dealt with the issue of two professional leagues by including players from both in the set. The first series featured 132 NFL cards and was followed by 66 cards in an AFL second series. The centering and print issues so rampant within this issue have been overcome in this PSA Set Registry listing. The complete set boasts a 9.10 GPA and has maintained the top spot on the charts since 2008.

GregJ99 (2019) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball Set
The 1953 Bowman issue is considered by many to be the purest of vintage card sets. Stunning color photography paired with clutter-free fronts give each card a sense of grandeur. Mickey Mantle, Stan Musial, Bob Feller and many more are included, and frankly they never looked better. This particular set is among the nicest the hobby has ever known. It is complete at 160 cards and boasts a GPA of 8.71. The horizontally-formatted PeeWee Reese card, which has been a hobby favorite for decades, is represented in near-perfect PSA 9.

J's 30-Year Project (2019) - 1952 Topps Baseball - Super Set
(Note that this award also includes the 4 sub-sets in this collection.)
The 1952 Topps set is arguably the most storied of all post-war card releases, and this entry is the most complete version. An additional 143 cards are needed beyond the standard base to complete this exhaustive project and then of course the fabled ’52 Mantle is a required, which happens to be a stunning PSA 8 in this case. This particular set has been at the top of the charts since 2015, with a 7.59 GPA. It is also only the second complete 1952 Topps Super set in the history of the PSA Set Registry.

Brian Karl (Brian's Fantastic...) (2019) - 1962 Topps Mars Attacks Set
The 1962 Topps Mars Attacks set is one of the most popular in the non-sports genre due its unique depiction of alien invasion and the resulting catastrophe. In fact, many of the cards are considered gruesome and push well-beyond what would be considered acceptable today. Regardless, the set is hotly-chased in any condition. This set has beaten the odds, and become one of the nicest in existence, weighing in with a GPA of 8.34.

Kenneth Kavowras (Hennyman) (2019) - Tom Seaver Master Set
(Note that this award includes the 3 sub-sets in this collection)
“Tom Terrific” was one of the most dominant pitchers that game has ever seen and played for some of the most noted teams of his era. As such, a plethora of Seaver cards were produced during his career and so it takes 504 items to complete this particular collection. Not only has this PSA Set Registry participant led this category for 10 years, but he also owns the second, fourth and 11th-ranked sets in the category. But the #1 set is the gem, boasting 100% completion and an 8.45 GPA.

Bob Kreider (Beta*Bob's Best) (2019) - 1993 Magic The Gathering Beta (MTG)
Magic: The Gathering fans are some of the most passionate collectors in the Trading Card Game genre. The 1993 Beta set is one of the three initial Magic offerings, and as such ranks highly atop collectors’ want lists. There are 302 cards required for completion and this particular set has them all. Even more impressive, however, is that fact that all but eight are graded PSA 10, with the remainder weighing in at PSA 9. This set has been the category leader since 2008 and boasts a GPA of 9.98.

Charles M. Merkel (2019) - 1954 Dan-Dee Potato Chips Baseball Set
There may be no other set in the PSA Set Registry that has been more thoroughly dominated by one entry than the 1954 Dan-Dee Potato Chips baseball cards, which features a young Mickey Mantle and nine other Hall of Fame members in just a 29-card set. This listing has maintained the top spot in the category since 2002 and shows no sign of relinquishing the title. It maintains a GPA of 8.69 in spite of the fact that the cards are notoriously found with staining from the potato chips with which they were originally packaged.

Charles M. Merkel (olemiss) (2019) - 1954 Topps Baseball Basic Set
The 1954 Topps release will forever hold a place of importance with collectors due in large part to an excellent design and the inclusion of three important rookie cards, Hank Aaron Ernie Banks and Al Kaline. This particular set is one of the nicest ever assembled, with the three big rookies all weighing in at PSA 9, and the #1 and #250 Ted Williams cards sporting PSA 8.5 and PSA 9 grades, respectively. This set is 100% complete and maintains a GPA of 9.02.

Charles M. Merkel (2019) - 1957 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets
The 1957 Topps baseball set combines rich photography and sparse design elements into one of the nicest sets of a storied decade of trading cards. The Master version of this set requires the rare Gene Baker error card and all versions of the unnumbered checklists, contest and lucky penny cards. This PSA Set Registry entry has stood the test of time, weighing in with an 8.96 GPA and sitting atop the ranking since 2008.

Charles M. Merkel (2019) - 1963 Fleer Baseball Set
Fleer produced several sets in the early 1960s that were small in size, but large in quality. The 1963 Fleer baseball set consists of 66 contemporary player cards and a difficult, unnumbered checklist. The stars of the set include Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax, Roberto Clemente and a Maury Wills rookie card that predates his first Topps issue by several years. This particular set has been a category leader since 2008 and sits atop the PSA Set Registry with a 9.91 GPA.

Pat Neshek (Neshek Collection) (2019) - 1970 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets
The 1970 Topps Baseball Master set is massive issue that includes a handful of challenging variations. Completing this set is a challenge in perseverance and attention to detail, as completion requires the amassing of 726 condition-sensitive cards with easily-chipped gray borders. This particular set has been atop the PSA Set Registry leader board since 2018, and though it is complete, upgrades are still being sought. The GPA currently sits at 9.70, and leads other collectors to wonder if it can possibly go any higher?

Bob Oliver (Olivertwistnc) (2019) - 1940 Gum Inc. Lone Ranger Set
The 1940 Gum Inc. Lone Ranger set is one of the classics of the mid-century non-sports genre. The 48-card issue showcases the Lone Ranger and his partner, Tonto, and their heroic escapades throughout the American West. Exceptionally popular with collectors, the competition within this PSA Set Registry category is especially fierce. This recognized set is 100% complete and has a GPA of 7.64, the second-highest for a complete set on the Registry.

Mark Pearson (mpear82) (2019) - 1935 National Chicle Football Set
The 1935 National Chicle Football Set is one of the most important issues in the history of the sport. Rich illustrations, density of star players, a difficult high series run and the inclusion of Bronko Nagurski, the Holy Grail of football cards, makes this set one for the ages. No card in this PSA Set Registry entry has grade lower than PSA 7 and it is only of only two sets to have a GPA higher than 8.0. This collection is a study in effort and dedication to greatness.

Donald E. Spence - (The Lone Star Collection) (2019) - 1916 Sporting News (M101-4) Baseball Set
Simply put, this is one of the most desirable sets of the early 20th century. Beautiful sepia images, clean design and a checklist including many of the greatest players to ever lace up a pair of spikes… Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Joe Jackson, Walter Johnson, Honus Wagner, and on and on. Only a handful of complete sets have ever been documented on the PSA Set Registry, and this one is the finest of all. Boasting a 6.75 GPA with the Cobb, Jackson and Ruth cards all in PSA 7, this set is a celebration of a bygone era.

Mike Wasserman (2019) - 1888 Allen & Ginter (N28) Baseball Set
Culled from a larger multisubject set, the 10 baseball players of the 1888 Allen & Ginter N28 set represent some of the most iconic of 19th century trading cards. Of the 10 players pictured in beautiful color lithography, six are members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, including the legendary Mike “King” Kelly. This particular set is complete with all 10 cards grading a minimum of PSA 8, and all but one card has the highest grade in the PSA Population Report. This set maintains a GPA of 8.59.

Mark Woodring (Mark W) (2019) - 1951 Bowman Football Set
Similar in design to their baseball offering, Bowman produced a 144-card football set in 1951 that resembles individual works of art. Rich in star power, the set contains the rookie cards of Norm Van Brocklin, Tom Landry, and Emlen Tunnell, in addition to 24 other Hall of Fame legends. This PSA Set Registry listing was assembled with quality in-mind. The Van Brocklin and Landry cards are PSA 9, and the Tunnel is graded PSA 8. In its entirety, the set boasts a GPA of 8.86 and has held the top spot in the category for two years.

Walt Bettinger (bulldog79) (2018) - 1965 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets, 1965 Topps Baseball with Wax Pack Basic & Master Sets
This classic mid-1960s release features a waving pennant design that sets it apart from other sets of the era. Including many of the greatest names in baseball history, 1965 Topps houses rookie cards of future Hall of Fame members Jim Hunter, Joe Morgan, Steve Carlton and Tony Perez. The set is split into low (1-506) and high (507-598) number series’, the latter of which is the more difficult of the two to obtain. To make this All-Time Finest set even sweeter is the addition of an unopened wax pack. The GPA of this set is 9.53.

John Branca (2018) - 1951 Bowman Baseball Set
In a decade laden with classics, the 1951 Bowman baseball set stands out among the others. Some collectors rave about the Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays rookie cards. Others focus on the player renderings that make each card appear to be a standalone work of art. And still others appreciate the player selection which allows for 30 Hall of Fame members to be included in the set. Regardless of the reason, the 1951 Bowman baseball card set is a favorite among collectors. In a PSA Set Registry competition featuring no fewer than 20 entries at 90% completion or better, this set stands above them all with a GPA of 9.20.

Chris Collins (Chris C) (2018) - Mickey Mantle Master Set
Any collection that includes Mickey Mantle cards is at least somewhat special. But a collection that includes nothing but Mickey Mantle cards? Or one that includes one of every Mickey Mantle card… There are not enough superlatives in the dictionary to properly describe such an achievement. We are forced to say simply that this accumulation of all things Mantle has never-before been completed on the PSA Set Registry before, and this noteworthy challenge is not the faint of heart. The degree of difficulty is monumental, and to do so with a 6.63 GPA is utterly remarkable.

Connor J (2018) - 1959 Topps Football Set
Topps capitalized on the popularity of the 1958 NFL Championship, which is often referred to as “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” and increased the size of their 1959 football set, growing from 132 cards the year prior to 176. The increase allowed for the inclusion of several notable rookie cards, including future Hall of Fame members Jim Taylor, Sam Huff, Jerry Kramer, Jim Parker and Bobby Mitchell. The Taylor card is infamous for featuring an image of the Chicago Cardinals’ Jim Taylor rather than the Packers’ star fullback. It was a mistake that Topps would replicate the following year as well. That may well be the only flaw in this set, however, as it boasts a 9.60 GPA and has been the All-Time Finest for more than six consecutive years.

Rick Dalton (the Pawn) (2018) - 1977 Topps Star Wars Basic Set
It took little time for trading card companies to capitalize on the Star Wars phenomenon. The first Topps set was issued in 1977 and consisted of 330 cards representing the first movie in the original trilogy. The set featured multiple cards of the film’s main characters as well as images of poignant scenes from the movie. More than 40 years later the cards are still popular with hobbyists, and high-grade specimens are traded vigorously. This set is perched firmly in the #2 position on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 9.93.

Jim Doyle (Doyle Collection) (2018) - Hall of Fame Baseball (Any Medium) Set
Of the many genres of Hall of Fame collections, this is one that allows for great diversity. It must be so, as many autographs are so difficult to find that a standardized medium would greatly reduce the number of individuals that could be found. As such, this set is a wonder for the eyes and imagination. Baseballs, trading cards, contracts, photos, letters and personal checks are a handful of the types of items that can be found in this Hall of Fame set. One signature each from all 269 “potential” signers is something of which the challenge of obtaining cannot be understated. Players, managers and administrators all can be found here, truly the movers and shakers of baseball history.

Jim Doyle (Doyle Collection) (2018) - Hall of Fame Players Baseball (Any Medium) Set
Hall of Fame Players Autographs… Simple in description, but unimaginably difficult in practice. These are the signatures most wanted by dedicated and casual collectors alike, which can increase the competition immeasurably when the rarities come up for sale. This stunning collection currently stands at 210 individual pieces and is 100% complete. That number will grow with each induction, making this a truly never-ending collection. To be complete is one thing, and to be so with a 9.44 GPA is another. A Hall of Fame collection of Hall of Fame members. What more can be said?

David Edwards (DM's Alpha Set) (2018) - 1993 Magic the Gathering Alpha (MTG) Set
Over the last 25 years, the trading card game genre has taken the non-sports world by storm. Magic The Gathering basically began the trend in 1993 with their Alpha and Beta sets. Today, these sets are attractive to collectors who played the game as children, and high-grade set building is extremely competitive. This set consists of 295 cards, all in PSA 9 or 10, including a PSA 10 Black Lotus, which is the undeniable key to the set. At 100% completion and with a GPA of 9.90, this set stands far above the rest on the All-Time Finest list.

Bill Fenton (Willy Wonka) (2018) - 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Set
At first glance, a relatively modern set in all PSA 9 might not seem to be an intense challenge. However, one must consider that the issue in question is fraught with rough cut edges and print defects, and has blue borders that show even the slightest bit of damage. Add in the fact that this set contains the Wayne Gretzky rookie card which is passionately chased by collectors of all sorts, and it all becomes clear. This set is the first to appear on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 9.0, making it the #1 All-Time Finest in the category.

Jon Fischbach (Captain Jon) (2018) - Topps Star Wars Run 1977-1983 Mega Set
Comprised of more than 900 cards that were produced over a seven-year period, the Topps Star Wars Run Mega Set is a monstrous undertaking in any condition. This multi-set run covers the original film trilogy and offers cards of individual characters, ships and scenes from the movies. Colored borders reveal flaws more easily than most cards, and centering can be an issue as well. To paraphrase a popular line from the movies, the force was with that collector that built this hall of fame set. It sits at #1 on the All-Time Finest list at 100% complete and with a GPA of 9.56.

Fly Eagles Fly! (2018) - 1940 Gum Inc Superman R145 Set
There is probably no more iconic American hero than Superman, and as such, this 72-card set issued in 1940 by Gum Inc. has been popular with collectors for more than 70 years. The entire set is generally rare, but the final series, cards #49-72 are exceedingly difficult to locate regardless of condition. High-grade material is practically non-existent, with less than 10% of the total graded population receiving marks of PSA 8 or higher. This collection ranks as the #2 All-Time Finest set on the Registry with a nearly unheard-of GPA of 7.70.

Fly Eagles Fly! (2018) - 1967 Topps Wacky Packages Set
Satirical sets have long been popular among non-sports collectors, perhaps none more so than the 1967 Topps Wacky Packages. Comprised of 44 cards illustrated with parody products such as Ratz Crackers, Skimpy Peanut Butter and Jail-O, these cards were actually a type of die-cut decal, as they were made to be punched out, licked and applied to other surfaces. A handful of the cards were pulled early in production and replaced with other images, thus making the originals exceptionally rare. This set is the All-Time Finest on the PSA Set Registry and holds the title with an 8.76 GPA.

Joester-Joseph R. Henninger, III (2018) - 1966-67 Topps USA Test Hockey Set
It is believed that only 100 examples of this set were ever produced and that they were distributed only in California, making completion in high grade more than 50 years later a true accomplishment in the hobby. At just 66 cards, this set is half the size of Topps’ standard issue of the same year, but with a similar design, it also has identical chipped border and centering issues. Few collectors ever attempt to collect this issue, and fewer still come anywhere near completion. This phenomenal set stands as the #1 All-Time Finest set on the Registry with a 7.67 GPA.

Brian Karl (Brian's Lone Ranger 1940 Set) (2018) - 1940 Gum Inc. Lone Ranger Set
This classic non-sports issue centers around those icons of radio and the silver screen, the Lone Ranger and his friend Tonto. Originally issued in penny packs, this 48-card set features artistic renderings of the two serial heroes and their adventures throughout the Wild West. Although it wasn’t definitively issued in multiple series, the high number cards (#37-48) are more difficult to locate in any condition. Less than 10% of all cards submitted have graded PSA 8 or higher, making this set with a 7.70 GPA even more exceptional.

knicks4life (2018) - 1948 Bowman Basketball Set
This 72-card issue essentially introduced post-war basketball cards into the market. As such, it contains rookie cards of many of the game’s mid-century greats, including Red Holzman, Joe Fulks, Jim Pollard and the original big man, George Mikan. This would also be the only basketball set that Bowman produced prior to their purchase by Topps. The cards were issued in two series’, with the latter of the two being markedly more difficult to obtain. The final card in the set Carl Braun (#72), is notoriously difficult to obtain in high grade. This set ranks as the second All-Time Finest on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 8.41.

rjmjr (2018) - Parkhurst Hockey 1950-1963 Mega Set
Parkhurst trading cards are to hockey what peanut butter is to jelly. Individually they are fine, even excellent. Together they are iconic. This set consists of more than 900 pieces that represent the entire run of mid-century Parkhurst hockey cards. Constructed of 14 annual sets, all the big names are included in this collection. Never-before has this colossal endeavor been completed on the PSA Set Registry, and therefore this set resides in the #1 position on All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 10.09 and 100% completion.

Kevin Roberson (Elitecards) (2018) - 1957-58 Topps Basketball Set
The 1957 Topps basketball set is a hobby landmark as the only major basketball issue of the decade. Player selection adds greatly to the set’s importance as it contains rookie cards of noted Hall of Fame members Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, Tommy Heinsohn and Bob Pettit. Unfortunately, centering issues and print defects are prevalent within the issue, and securing high-grade examples is exceptionally difficult. However, when hobbyists fully embrace the challenge, the reward is incredibly sweet. This set has a GPA of 8.09.

Mark Roberts (Mark's 1984 Set) (2018) - 1984 Topps Football Set
How can one top perfection? It is by definition, impossible. Such is the situation with this 1984 Topps football set, the first-ever completed on the Registry in all PSA 10. In this set that is so prone to centering issues and printing defects, perfection is usually available on a single-card basis alone. Yet the temptation is there for the dedicated hobbyist. Packed with the rookie cards of 11 future Hall of Fame members and dozens of the game’s greats, 1984 Topps is arguably the premier football set of the decade. Of the many collectors to begin the journey, only one has been triumphant. This set boasts a perfect 10.0 GPA.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2018) - 1934 Goudey Baseball Set
Following on the heels of the company’s initial baseball offering the year prior, the 1934 Goudey set is an important set that includes the iconic Lou Gehrig #37 and has been a collector favorite for decades. In addition to two cards of the “Iron Horse,” Jimmy Foxx, Mickey Cochrane, Dizzy Dean, Carl Hubbell and a host of their contemporaries round out this 96-card issue. This set stands at #2 on the All-Time Finest list of the PSA Set Registry and is the highest-rated complete set with a stunning GPA of 8.52.

Donald E. Spence (The Lone Star Collection) (2018) - 1932 U.S. Caramel Misc Sports Set
Consisting of “32 pictures of famous athletes,” the 1932 U.S. Caramel set is one of the top multi-sport sets in the hobby today. From Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb to Gene Sarazen, Bobby Jones and Jack Dempsey, many of the greatest athletic names of the era are included within this small issue. Typically found with staining that detracts from the aesthetic quality and ultimate grade of the card, high-grade examples are an extreme rarity. This set currently sits at #3 all-time on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 8.10.

Damir Tomicic (Curious Goods) (2018) - 1966-67 Topps Hockey Set
This wood-grained issue is a classic among hockey enthusiasts. Not only is it exceptionally challenging to obtain in high grade because of the borders that show even the tiniest of flaws, but centering issues plague the set as well. Even with those challenges, the cards are still very popular with collectors. Much of that is because the set includes an array of the top players of the age, most notably the rookie card of the legendary Bobby Orr. Less than two percent of the cards graded from this set have been designated PSA Mint 9 or better, making this complete set with an 8.21 GPA a truly remarkable accomplishment.

William J. Toppi (2018) - 1939 Play Ball Baseball Basic Set
The 1939 Play Ball set is a lesson in classic simplicity. White borders and a lack of any distracting text on card fronts allow fans to appreciate the players as they are presented in black-and-white photos. Scrolling through a set can be compared to time spent enjoying a museum gallery. At 161 cards the set is not overwhelming, though it is rich with Hall of Fame players and offers the first cardboard appearance of “The Splendid Splinter,” Ted Williams. This All-Time Finest set is being inducted with a GPA of 8.76.

William J. Toppi (2018) - 1940 Play Ball Baseball Set
Play Ball incorporated a bit more creativity into their 1940 issue by adding fanciful borders and player names to the fronts of their baseball cards. The set was expanded to incorporate 240 subjects, many of which were legends of the game receiving tribute in a more recent set. Along with the stars of the era, Christy Mathewson, Connie Mack, Joe Jackson, Walter Johnson, Honus Wagner and a host of their contemporaries were included as well. This set is the finest ever registered on the PSA Set Registry and boasts a GPA of 8.20.

William J. Toppi (2018) - 1941 Play Ball Baseball Set
Play Ball employed color for their baseball card set in 1941 and reduced the size of the issue to just 72 pieces. Hobbyists love this set for the fantastic Hall of Famers, including the rookie card of Brooklyn Dodgers shortstop, Pee Wee Reese. However, with generally less than 10% of all 1941 Play Ball cards submitted receiving grades of PSA NM-MT 8 or higher, this issue provides a significant challenge to high-grade collectors. That makes this All-Time Finest set even more impressive as it boasts a GPA of 8.64 with 100% completion.

Ben Trudeau (Benoitben28) (2018) - 1911-12 C55 Hockey Basic & Master Sets
Just a few minutes spent with these cards, and collectors with even the most basic understanding of hockey will realize that they are viewing something special. A classic design using two hockey sticks to frame the subject and a simple nameplate at the base give a sense of grandeur to each individual card. This set includes the greatest players of the pre-war era, "Cyclone" Taylor, Art Ross, Newsy Lalonde, Jack Laviolette, Georges Vezina and many more, another factor that adds to the attraction garnered by this issue. This set holds the #1 position on the All-Time Finest list and maintains a GPA of 7.92.

WHOLELOTTATENZ (2018) - 1968 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets
The 1968 Topps set represents the changing of the guard in major league baseball. Mickey Mantle leads the class of legends who would begin to retire over the next several seasons, while up-and-comers Nolan Ryan, Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Tom Seaver and Rod Carew begin their ascent to superstardom in “The Show.” The 1968 Topps baseball card set features all of these legends and more in 598 base cards, with an additional 10 rare variations needed to complete the Master Set. This set has overcome standard centering issues, print defects and chipping borders to maintain a GPA of 9.90.

Robert A. Williams (Williams Collection) (2018) - 1958 Topps Baseball Master Set
The 1958 Topps baseball card set is notable for many reasons. The first major set to feature Dodgers and Giants players after their move west, Topps’ first time including All-Star cards in an annual set and a host of errors and variations have kept hobbyists intrigued with the set since its release decades ago. Including high-grade examples of all 495 cards, plus variants and pack inserts, 534 items are required for completion of this Master Set. With a GPA of 8.99, less than one-tenth of one point is keeping this set from the top all-time spot on the PSA Set Registry.

Michael Block (Gogtter) (2017) - Topps Wacky Packages Series (1-16) 1970s Run Mega Set
Last year we identified another set within this category, one that ranked #1 at the time, as a special award winner – the Best Rookie Set of the Year for 2016. Amazingly, this new set has a GPA that is nearly one full point higher than the aforementioned winner, which is why we felt our Hall of Fame was an appropriate home for this amassment. The Topps Wacky Packages series is one that was not only popular in its day, but it’s a concept that helped spawn the popular Garbage Pail Kids of the 1980s. This new inductee represents an entire run of Wacky Packages cards from series 1-16 (1970s), which amounts to 489 total cards, and it possesses an amazing GPA of 9.51.

Scott Brockelman (SB1/PWT) (2017) - 1909 Ramly Cigarettes (T204) Baseball Set
Arguably one of the most attractive trading card sets ever produced, the 1909 Ramly baseball set is also one of the most difficult prewar issues to assemble in high grade. The images of the players on the fronts are surrounded by an embossed frame and borders that easily reveal wear with the slightest touch. The 121-card set includes plenty of stars from the period, including Chief Bender, Eddie Plank and Walter Johnson. It also includes all three Chicago Cubs icons: Joe Tinker, Johnny Evers and Frank Chance. There are also several cards that were made with a square frame in addition to the more common oval frame, and these tough variations sell for a premium. This year’s inductee remains the finest complete set ever assembled on the Registry, exhibiting a GPA of 6.62.

Jim Chanin (Jim's 1914 Cracker Jack Set) (2017) - 1914 Cracker Jack Baseball
Both the 1914 and 1915 Cracker Jack baseball card sets are immensely popular, but they couldn’t be more different in terms of difficulty. While the 1915 cards could be obtained via a mail-in program, no such program existed the year before, making the 1914 cards infinitely harder to find in high grade. You had to find them the old-fashioned way, by sifting through boxes of candy. The set, despite being slightly smaller at 144 cards (versus 176 in 1915), packs a serious punch. Beyond the Ty Cobb and Shoeless Joe Jackson classics are some other highly-desirable singles like the Christy Mathewson (pitching pose) and the Del Pratt rarity. This year’s inductee is simply the finest set of its kind on the Registry, topping the charts with a GPA of 7.03.

Howard Cohen (hdc211) (2017) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is not much more that can be said about the 1986 Fleer basketball set. It is, quite simply, the most popular modern sports card set ever made. In fact, a good case can be made that this is also the most significant and desirable basketball set ever created. At the time of the Registry awards, there were nearly 400 individual sets listed on the site. The era produced memorable teams, fierce rivalries and a host of legendary players. This 132-card set, one surrounded by colorful borders, is home to numerous Hall of Fame rookies like those of Hakeem Olajuwon, Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. It also contains cards of Magic, Bird, Kareem and many others that only require one word – or name – to identify them. This batch of inductees are the latest to reach 100% completion in PSA 10. As they say, these sets are as good as it gets.

Cole and Dad - The Pension (2017) - 1972 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets,1972 Topps Baseball with Wax Pack Basic & Master Sets
Some of the most extreme designs that the baseball card world has ever seen came from the 1970s. This includes what is regarded by many to be the most popular of all sets from the decade – the 1972 Topps set. Booming with color and a psychedelic format, this gigantic set features numerous In Action cards of many top stars like Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente, along with Boyhood Photo, World Series and Traded cards. In addition, the key rookie in the release is the inaugural card of Hall of Famer Carlton Fisk. This year’s inductee is not just the top Basic set, nor is it just the top Master set. It is the finest Master set of all time along with an unopened wax pack, totaling 795 items. With an astonishing GPA of 9.86, the entire collection is virtual perfection.

The DBacks Collection (2017) - 1952 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets
There are certain categories on the Registry where the competition has been built up over many years between resident collectors, so it’s rare to see a new entry make the kind of statement and impact that this incredible set did in 2017. After being added to our site, this set vaulted to #2 on the All-Time Finest list, carrying a GPA of 8.53. This set, which requires significantly more cards than the Basic set due to the numerous variations found in Series 1 (490 versus 407), packs a serious wallop. This year’s inductee is the only one in Registry history to have both a PSA 10 Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays in the same set. In terms of sheer monetary value, this is the most valuable 1952 Topps set registered on the site. For now, the collection continues to improve as it seeks to dethrone our longstanding leader in overall GPA. In addition to being named Best Rookie Set of the Year, this set joins elite company in our Hall of Fame.

ddhhpscpsa (2) (2017) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is not much more that can be said about the 1986 Fleer basketball set. It is, quite simply, the most popular modern sports card set ever made. In fact, a good case can be made that this is also the most significant and desirable basketball set ever created. At the time of the Registry awards, there were nearly 400 individual sets listed on the site. The era produced memorable teams, fierce rivalries and a host of legendary players. This 132-card set, one surrounded by colorful borders, is home to numerous Hall of Fame rookies like those of Hakeem Olajuwon, Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. It also contains cards of Magic, Bird, Kareem and many others that only require one word – or name – to identify them. This batch of inductees are the latest to reach 100% completion in PSA 10. As they say, these sets are as good as it gets.

Jeannie Dee (Jeannie's) (2017) - 1948 Bowman Football Set
Just like it’s baseball counterpart, the black-and-white 1948 Bowman football set is one that can be described as a no-frills issue. That said, it is also a classic and one filled with important cards. This 108-card release contains short prints and, more importantly, a host of Hall of Fame and star rookie cards. Those rookies include the likes of Johnny Lujack, Steve Van Buren, Charlie Conerly, Charley Trippi, Sammy Baugh, Bob Waterfield, Bulldog Turner, Alex Wojciechowicz, Pete Pihos, Bill Dudley and George McAfee to name a few. Simply incredible. The star power is immense, yet it is still often overlooked compared to other gridiron issues of the era. This year’s inductee is the best set every assembled on our All-Time Finest list, boasting a GPA of 8.54 and a streak of several years at the top.

Cortney DeLorme (57's Finest) (2017) - 1957 Topps Football Basic & Master Sets
In the football card sector of the hobby, there aren’t too many sets that can contend with the historical importance and appeal of the 1957 Topps set. Anchored by the three big rookies in Paul Hornung, Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas, this colorful set gives the collector plenty of reasons to pursue it. In fact, the Starr and Unitas rookies alone can cost a fortune in high grade. The Master set, which contains 158 total cards at the time of this writing, is slightly larger than the Basic set, but it does contain a handful of variations. Along with its desirable contents, this issue is plagued by print defects and subpar centering. This year’s winner is the finest Master set ever assembled on the Registry, possessing a strong GPA of 8.75, a real chore considering the condition-sensitive nature of the issue.

Jim Doyle (Doyle Collection) (2017) - 1964-Date Hall of Fame Yellow Plaque Postcards Baseball Set
For nearly 60 years, the National Baseball Hall of Fame Gift Shop in Cooperstown, New York, has been issuing these extremely collectible autograph mediums to the public. For the sake of the hobby, let’s hope they continue to do so. Fans and collectors have been making annual trips to the induction weekend for years in hopes of obtaining signed copies of these bright-colored postcards. Each year, assuming someone is enshrined, the checklist grows and it’s hard to imagine a more fitting tribute to baseball’s Mount Olympus than this set. Currently, the set requires 164 total items, from Jackie Robinson to Johnny Bench to Ken Griffey, Jr. Not only is this set the first to reach 100% completion, this year’s inductee carries an astonishing GPA of 9.61.

Jim Doyle (Doyle Collection) (2017) - 1980-2001 Perez-Steele Hall of Fame Postcards Baseball Set
Many collectors have long been fans of the colorful baseball artwork produced by Dick Perez. Some of his eye-appealing work was used to create some collectible cards sets, starting during the 1980s. This set is one of his most desired creations. The 1980-2001 Perez-Steele Hall of Fame postcards set features some of the greatest names in the game, and the cards provide one of the best-looking mediums you could hope for as an autograph collector. The set begins with pitcher Carl Hubbell and ends with outfielder Dave Winfield. Icons like Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams and Mickey Mantle are featured, but there are also some very tough autographs to obtain from other Hall of Famers. Some of the more difficult signatures are those of Roy Campanella, Lloyd Waner and Satchel Paige to name a few. This year’s inductee carries a phenomenal GPA of 9.97. In other words, the entire set grades PSA/DNA Gem Mint 10 except one PSA/DNA Mint 9.

Calvin D. Ehler (calvinehler) (2017) - 1953 Topps Baseball Set
After their 1952 set changed the hobby forever, Topps followed their gigantic effort with another beautiful design in 1953. The large format, great artwork and colored bottom border (black or red) ensured the cards were eye catching yet challenging to preserve in high grade over the long haul. The 274-card set, which is smaller than its 407-card release a year earlier, leads off with a #1 card of Jackie Robinson. In addition to stunning cards of Satchel Paige, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle, the set also contains a fair number of tough, high-number commons that help provide an extra challenge for the collector. This year’s inductee ranks third on our All-Time Finest list, exhibiting a masterful GPA of 8.50 at the time of the awards deadline.

Steven Ferrell (SF) (2017) - All-Century Team Single Signed Baseballs Set
There is no more popular medium in autograph collecting than the signed baseball. It doesn’t matter if we are talking about Babe Ruth, The Beatles or an array of presidents, it’s the medium that collectors desire most. They showcase the signatures wonderfully and are easy to display. When we came across this stunning collection, it was clear that it needed to be placed into our Hall of Fame. In 1999, a panel of experts selected the 100 greatest players in baseball history. This set is built upon this prestigious squad, requiring 95 of the 100 names voted in. Everyone from Christy Mathewson to Jimmie Foxx to Roberto Clemente are here. The collection, which carries a GPA of 8.23, is a fine tribute to the best the game has ever seen and an obvious choice in 2017.

Dave Lemon (PSUinCT) (2017) - 1962 Topps Civil War News Set
Talk about a popular category. Over 100 different sets are currently registered and vying for the top spot in the 1962 Topps Civil War News category on the site, making it one of the most popular segments of the non-sports Registry. This 88-card set is filled with colorful, and sometimes graphic, artwork depicting scenes from this grisly battle between the North and South. Renowned artist and hobby icon Norm Saunders of Mars Attacks fame and beyond provided his unmistakable touch to this classic issue. This particular set is currently the best the Registry has ever seen in this highly-competitive category, resting at the top of the All-Time Finest list with an unrivaled GPA of 9.50.

Tony Lynch (DirtyDog) (2017) - Garbage Pail Kids 1980s Run Mega Set
Collecting is about fun. Perhaps no other set exudes that better than this one. If you grew up during the 1980s, how can you forget the zany, outlandish Garbage Pail Kids series? Despised by some parents but loved by a generation of kids, this parody of the popular Cabbage Patch Kids caused a frenzy during the decade. Thankfully for the manufacturer (Topps) and children of all ages, political correctness was not widespread at the time. This series was all done in jest and a sense of humor was required, even if some of the cards were pushing the limits of taste. This year’s inductee is the ultimate tribute to a set that captivated a whole generation and it requires a massive 1,241 cards to complete entire run. With a virtually-perfect GPA of 9.94, this set became the first to do so.

Jeffrey Ratzer (JR's basketball royalty) (2017) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is not much more that can be said about the 1986 Fleer basketball set. It is, quite simply, the most popular modern sports card set ever made. In fact, a good case can be made that this is also the most significant and desirable basketball set ever created. At the time of the Registry awards, there were nearly 400 individual sets listed on the site. The era produced memorable teams, fierce rivalries and a host of legendary players. This 132-card set, one surrounded by colorful borders, is home to numerous Hall of Fame rookies like those of Hakeem Olajuwon, Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. It also contains cards of Magic, Bird, Kareem and many others that only require one word – or name – to identify them. This batch of inductees are the latest to reach 100% completion in PSA 10. As they say, these sets are as good as it gets.

Kevin Roberson (Elitecards) (2017) - 1986 Topps Football Set
Hall of Famer football rookie cards have always been popular with collectors, especially those of the iconic names in high grade. It is not uncommon to see PSA 10 rookie cards of Walter Payton, Joe Montana and Jerry Rice routinely sell into five figures each at auction. One of the more challenging sets of that period, when it comes to condition, is the 396-card 1986 Topps football card set. Surrounded by pesky green borders, the slightest touch will reveal wear and prevent the card from achieving PSA’s top grade. The set also contains some great NFL rookies along with the Rice, including #275 Reggie White, #389 Bruce Smith and #374 Steve Young. Well, you would never guess how challenging the set can be after looking at this year’s inductee. At the time of the deadline, this set had a GPA of 9.99, only to be upgraded to a perfect 10 just a short time later.

Cesare Ruscio (Cesare) (2017) - 1954-55 Topps Hockey Set
Any collector would be hard pressed to find a better-looking set, in any sport, than this one. The 1954-55 Topps hockey set is booming with color and the artwork is simply stunning. The red and blue bottom borders are susceptible to visual wear, providing an additional challenge for those seeking high-grade examples. This 60-card set is filled with stars like Ted Lindsay and Terry Sawchuk, but the most captivating card of all is the iconic image of Gordie Howe. Skating towards the viewer, with ice shooting from his blades, the Howe card is part of PSA’s Mount Rushmore of ice legends. While not his rookie, it is arguably Howe’s most popular card. This year’s inductee currently sits in the number two spot on our All-Time Finest list, boasting a wonderful GPA of 8.34.

Cesare Ruscio (Cesare) (2017) - 1958-59 Topps Hockey Set
Earlier this year, a PSA 8 Bobby Hull rookie card became the first non-baseball card in that grade and from the postwar era to eclipse the $100,000 mark at auction. Not only did that underscore the strength of the classic hockey card market, but it also shed light on just how tough that Hall of Fame rookie card and this 66-card set is. Often found poorly centered, due to its location at the bottom corner of the sheet, the Hull is one of the more elusive hockey rookies in high grade. From centering problems to print defects, the condition obstacles are abundant here. This new inductee into our Hall of Fame is the best set ever assembled on the All-Time Finest list, possessing a GPA of 8.38, which makes it one of only two to ever reach 100% completion in PSA 8 or better.

Cesare Ruscio (Cesare) (2017) - 1964-65 Topps Hockey Set
During the 1960s, Topps decided to create cards with a larger design. They issued these “Tall Boys” for basketball, football and hockey and, while all three sets are popular, the hockey set is clearly the toughest of them all. Issued in much lower numbers than its basketball and football counterparts, this 110-card set offers a serious challenge for the advanced hockey card collector. These cards are often plagued with poor centering and print defects, making high-grade examples elusive. Additionally, there are nearly a dozen short prints that are considerably tougher than the rest of the set, not to mention two brutally-tough checklists and a small high-number group of All Stars. This year’s inductee features a GPA of 8.85, making it the finest 1964 Topps hockey set in Registry history, and it currently has a very comfortable lead in the category.

Cesare Ruscio (Cesare) (2017) - 1966-67 Topps Hockey Set
When it comes to classic hockey sets, you will not find too many others that can compare or outdo the 1966-67 Topps issue. This extremely tough brown-bordered issue is one of the most difficult sets, in any sport, to assemble in high grade. The set, which contains a nice high-number run of All Stars and a host of Hall of Famers, is anchored by the Bobby Orr rookie card – one of the most important hockey cards in the hobby and a card that has escalated in price significantly during the past couple of years. The set also requires two checklist cards that are very tough to find in top condition. This year’s inductee carries a GPA of 8.57. Quite frankly, there is no one close to dethroning this exquisite collection. Considering the degree of competition in this specific set category, holding a lead of that magnitude is most impressive.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2017) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is not much more that can be said about the 1986 Fleer basketball set. It is, quite simply, the most popular modern sports card set ever made. In fact, a good case can be made that this is also the most significant and desirable basketball set ever created. At the time of the Registry awards, there were nearly 400 individual sets listed on the site. The era produced memorable teams, fierce rivalries and a host of legendary players. This 132-card set, one surrounded by colorful borders, is home to numerous Hall of Fame rookies like those of Hakeem Olajuwon, Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. It also contains cards of Magic, Bird, Kareem and many others that only require one word – or name – to identify them. This batch of inductees are the latest to reach 100% completion in PSA 10. As they say, these sets are as good as it gets.

Jason Weil (The Weil Collection) (2017) - 1951-1999 Topps Wax Packs - Any Series Baseball Set
If you have been paying attention to the unopened pack market, then you know how hot that market has been during the past few years. Over time, the existing wax simply dries up as more risk-taking hobbyists proceed to bust those packs open in hopes of finding a gem. Of all the great pack runs or sets that could be designed, it is hard to imagine a better one than this. You need every unopened Topps baseball wax pack from 1951-1999, 49 packs in all from the second half of the 20th century. Some of the individual packs required are rarely seen. All you have to do is check your auction records over the past 20 years. On top of the sheer value, some of the Topps packs from the 1950s are incredibly tough to find. This year’s inductee not only has them all, but it also carries a GPA of 8.13.

Jeff Ballinger (Ballinger) (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Mark S. Adams (oldfart007) (2016) - 1967 Leaf Star Trek Set
After the prior leader spent 11 consecutive years on top, this set emerged to take over the number one spot in 2015 and it has held off some stiff competition ever since. If you have been following the market, especially for non-sports cards, then you have witnessed the incredible surge in price for cards in the 1967 Leaf and 1976 Topps Star Trek sets the last couple of years. They have gone to a new level as more collectors have entered the fray. With the help of some recent films, Star Trek is back in full force. The 72-card, 1967 Leaf issue started it all for Trekkies. Based on the original series, these black-and-white cards stick to some of the television storylines yet veer wildly from others. This year’s inductee sits in the top spot on our All-Time Finest list, exhibiting a GPA of 8.63.

Bumchex (2016) - 1977 Topps Star Wars Basic & Master Sets
Star Wars has become such a huge part of American pop culture that there are almost no words to describe it and the franchise continues on, generating new legions of fans every time a new release comes out. In fact, the latest installment - The Force Awakens - was a mega success earlier this year. The first movie, however, is the one that changed movie-going forever, and this first major set will always be linked to that landmark film. At 330 cards, this is one of the larger non-sports sets you will encounter. The Master set requires one additional card of C-3PO (#207), a card that is best left for the adults to discuss. The category is one of the more hotly-contested on the registry, but this inductee has risen to the very top of our All-Time Finest list in 2016, with a GPA of 9.88.

Michael G. Burton, Sr. (mgb) (2016) - 1966 Philadelphia Football Set
Topps may have ruled the roost in the 1960s, but competitors like Fleer and Philadelphia Gum released several sets of their own during the decade. The most popular 1960s set not issued by Topps is arguably the 198-card 1966 Philadelphia set. For four consecutive years (1964-1967), Philadelphia Gum created sets based solely on NFL players, prior to the merger. Topps would eventually gain control in 1968, but a window of NFL card history was owned by Philadelphia Gum. This particular set produced key rookies of Gale Sayers and Dick Butkus, along with several star cards of players like Jim Brown, Johnny Unitas and Bart Starr. This year’s inductee is, by far, the best set every assembled in the category with a GPA of 8.92.

Tony Cavaluzzi (mmno7) (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Jim Chanin (Jim's T3 set) (2016) - 1911 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Baseball Basic Set
When you think about the true giants of the hobby, and I mean that literally, it’s hard to match the sheer size of the 1911 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets. At 5-¾ by 8 inches in size, these colossal cards make the towering Tall Boys of the 1960s look puny. Aside from their large format, the cards are absolute works of art, featuring some of the best images you will ever see on cardboard. Many of the stars of the era are featured in the 100-card set, from Walter Johnson to Ty Cobb to Cy Young. While they may be amongst the most beautiful cards in the hobby, they are also incredibly tough to find in PSA 6 or better. The fact that this set carries a GPA of 6.05 and rests comfortably at the top of the All-Time Finest list, makes it well worthy of induction into our Hall of Fame.

Colin's 51 Parkies (2016) - 1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey Set
It’s hard to argue with the importance of the 1951 Parkhurst hockey card set. Home to a small army of elite, Hall of Famer rookie cards, this set includes inaugural issues of Maurice Richard, Terry Sawchuk and Gordie Howe to name just a fraction of the group. This 105-card set was made with a relatively simple design on the front, including blank backs throughout the set. The issue is plagued by print defects as well as centering issues, making high-grade copies extremely desirable. In fact, prices for stellar examples have been breaking records for a few years now. This year’s inductee is, quite simply, the best set ever assembled in the category, possessing an unmatched GPA of 8.69. This set eclipsed the former finest set over the past two years.

Jeffrey Daich (p6jeff) (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Rick Dalton (the Pawn) (2016) - 1976 Topps Star Trek Set
The market for the 1967 Leaf Star Trek set has been very strong over the past couple of years and it is the first major set to cover the iconic television series, but one could argue that the more colorful 1976 Topps set is even more popular. Have the new Star Trek movies brought the franchise to a new level of popularity? Is it a newfound appreciation by longtime fans who are now at a place in their lives where they can spend more time and money on collectibles? Whatever the answer may be, one thing is for sure, these cards have been breaking records in recent times and the 88-card set is one of the most popular categories on the non-sports registry. In the face of heavy competition, this set has risen to the top of the All-Time Finest list, carrying a GPA of 9.72.

dbingham (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is not much more that can be said about the 1986 Fleer basketball set. It is, quite simply, the most popular modern sports card set ever made. In fact, a good case can be made that this is also the most significant and desirable basketball set ever created. At the time of the Registry awards, there were nearly 400 individual sets listed on the site. The era produced memorable teams, fierce rivalries and a host of legendary players. This 132-card set, one surrounded by colorful borders, is home to numerous Hall of Fame rookies like those of Hakeem Olajuwon, Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. It also contains cards of Magic, Bird, Kareem and many others that only require one word – or name – to identify them. This batch of inductees are the latest to reach 100% completion in PSA 10. As they say, these sets are as good as it gets.

ddhhpscpsa (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Jim Doyle (Doyle Collection) (2016) - 1985-1997 Perez-Steele Great Moments Postcards Baseball Autograph Set
These supersized cards, measuring 5-3/4 by 8 inches, have an ability to grab your attention as much as any trading card you will see. For over a decade, these unsigned cards were issued in limited form (5,000 were made of each card), and not all of them could be autographed since a portion of the players were deceased at the time of the release. That said, the large format and beautiful Dick Perez artwork made these cards a very popular medium for autograph collectors. The 69-card set (all autographed) contains many great names like Roy Campanella, Ted Williams, Sandy Koufax and Mickey Mantle. There is even a three-player card featuring Mickey, Willie and “The Duke.” This year's winner carries a pristine GPA of 10, the first and only set to achieve PSA perfection.

Grand Slam (2016) - 1952 Topps Look n' See Set
For the last several years, this terrific non-sports issue has become more and more popular with hobbyists. All you have to do is look at the level of competition within the category and you will see the phenomenal interest in the issue. One thing is for sure. It’s easy to see why the set is so appealing to collectors. In addition to the rich color used throughout, the 135-card issue is, perhaps, the most diverse collection of subjects you will ever see within one set. From American presidents to Cleopatra to Gandhi, this set covers a virtual abyss of subjects. The issue also includes an elusive condition rarity, the #82 Rembrandt card, which was positioned at the bottom right corner of the sheet and difficult to find centered. While this set is certainly considered a non-sports issue, it even contains an appearance by “The Sultan of Swat” himself - Babe Ruth. This year’s inductee is the finest set ever registered in the category, featuring a wonderful GPA of 8.80 at the time of the deadline.

Jeffrey Griffith (GretzkyCards) (2016) - Hall of Fame Rookies Hockey Set
In the 15 years the registry has been in operation, this set is one of the most interesting and impressive collections we have ever encountered. At a humongous 375 total cards and growing, this category requires a rookie card of every hockey figure to ever be inducted into the Hall of Fame. You need every rookie from the 1911 C55 Georges Vezina to the 1966 Bobby Orr to the 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky card and much, much more. It includes prewar tobacco cards to modern marvels. The overall GPA of the massive group was 7.16 at the awards deadline, and it remains the only collection to reach 100% completion. Since being initially recognized for Best Overall Specialty Set in 2014, this collector has kept at it, adding new cards as more individuals are inducted each year.

Daniel Hunt - Robert Casterline Collection (Hunt/Casterline) (2016) - Pro Football Hall of Fame Rookie Players Set
This 243-card set requires that the collector obtain a rookie card for every player who has one. Just think about all the legends that reside in this set. Powerhouse cards like the 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski, 1948 Leaf Sid Luckman, 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas, 1958 Topps Jim Brown and 1965 Topps Joe Namath are just a handful of notable names in the set. It is also ever-evolving as more and more players are enshrined. If they have a rookie card, you need to add it to keep the set at 100% completion. This set is just that and it has an unprecedented GPA of 9.01, making it the only set to every reach a PSA 9 or better rating. For those of you who may not be aware, this incredible set is part of a larger collection that is being displayed in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. If you like cards and are in the area, do yourself a favor and check out this incredible amassment of football history on cardboard.

Rich Katz (Movin' On Up) (2016) - 1910-11 Sweet Caporal Postcards Hockey Set
This year’s inductee is the kind of set that gets better the more you learn about it, a set that the average collector may not be too familiar with – but should be. Within the 1910 Sweet Caporal 45-photo postcard set of hockey subjects such as Georges Vezina are, perhaps, the most haunting images you will ever see on any type of card. If you have never seen one before, we suggest you venture online to view some images of this unique set. The portraits are truly stunning. The subjects look like ghosts from the past. You almost expect the eyes on each card to follow you like those on a painting in a haunted house! In addition to the striking appearance, the cards are very tough to find. Often times, you may see one here or there, but rarely do you see a complete set. This set is not only complete, but it is the finest known. Its 7.05 GPA clearly separates this set from all combatants on our All-Time Finest list.

Evan Mathis (OG 86 Fleer) (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Larry Mayer (BBCards4U) (2016) - 1966 Topps Baseball Basic & Master Sets
Topps continued with a more simplistic design in 1966, but they decided to add a little more color to help enhance the eye appeal of their latest set. Hall of Fame rookie cards of Jim Palmer and Don Sutton are accompanied by popular cards of Hank Aaron, Sandy Koufax, Pete Rose, Roberto Clemente, Mickey Mantle and a #1 card of Willie Mays. The set ends with a Hall of Famer too in #598 Gaylord Perry. This year’s inductee is being recognized for both the Basic (9.42) and Master versions of his sets, as each one rests in the #1 spot on the All-Time Finest list. The 612-card Master set, which is slightly more challenging than the Basic as a result of the required variations, has an unmatched GPA of 9.37.

Charles M. Merkel (olemiss) (2016) - 1939 Play Ball Baseball Basic Set
For three years, Play Ball was the big name in baseball cards. In 1939 and 1940, the manufacturer went with a black-and-white format and then they turned to color in 1941. All three issues are popular, but the inaugural 1939 set is one that is special to many collectors as a result of one major rookie card – one belonging to Ted Williams. In addition to Williams, great cards of Joe DiMaggio, Mel Ott, Hank Greenberg and even Moe Berg help anchor the set. The simplicity of the design within this 161-card set is another reason collectors are drawn to it. It takes us back to a different time. This year’s inductee carries a GPA of 8.43, which places it in the second slot on our All-Time Finest list.

Charles M. Merkel (2016) - 1969 Topps Baseball Basic Set
Sometimes a set is defined by the players who had significant beginnings at the time. Of course, we are referring to the rookie cards. Other times, a noteworthy end or final card in a player’s career helps a set reach another level as well. That is the case with the 664-card set released by Topps in 1969. Mickey Mantle, arguably the most popular figure in hobby history, reached the end of his career in 1968. One of the things that collectors love about his final card is that you can read all of his career stats on the reverse. The sets’ appeal doesn’t end there, however, as rookie cards of Reggie Jackson and Rollie Fingers help the cause in addition to plenty of young stars like Nolan Ryan and Johnny Bench. This year’s inductee ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list with an unthinkable GPA of 9.60.

Henri Nuber (2016) - 1964 Baseball Basic Set
Through the 1950s and into the 1960s, Topps continued to dominate the baseball card scene. As the 1950s progressed, Topps would move from a slightly larger format to the more traditional 2-½ by 3-½-inch design that most collectors are familiar with today. They also moved from the more ornate early design to an increasingly simple approach in the 1960s. In 1964, Topps went with the less-is-more style in their 587-card issue. Cards of Mickey Mantle, Roberto Clemente, Sandy Koufax, Pete Rose and the rest of the MLB stars are at the core, along with a rookie card of Hall of Famer Phil Niekro and several fun multi-player cards. This year’s inductee, one that has an incredible GPA of 9.57, is the finest set ever assembled in the category.

Michael Rakosi (Greatest Show On Earth) (2016) - NBA Top 50 Rookies Basketball Set
In 1996, a panel comprised of media members, former players and coaches and front office executives voted on who they thought made up the 50 greatest players in basketball history. This major event was put together in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the NBA. From George Mikan to Wilt Chamberlain to Michael Jordan, the best of the very best were named. During the 1997 All-Star Game, nearly all of the selected players took part in the memorable ceremony. The set contains 49 total rookie cards. Why 49 and not 50? Well, remember that Magic Johnson and Larry Bird share a rookie card in 1980. This year’s inductee is the finest ever assembled, carrying a GPA of 9.30, and it has remained in the top spot for well over 10 consecutive years.

Richard Ridgeway (Vetteboys) (2016) - 1971 Topps Football Set
In the 1970s, it’s hard to find a more popular gridiron issue than the 1971 Topps set. Each card in this 263-card set is surrounded by full-color borders, whether they are blue, red or a combination of both. The set contains the expected star selection, including a #1 card of Johnny Unitas, but two of the most desirable cards in high grade are rookies of Hall of Famers “Mean” Joe Greene and Terry Bradshaw – both part of the vaunted Pittsburgh Steeler teams of the decade. In fact, Bradshaw rookies in PSA 9 have sold well into five figures in recent times. With all of the interest in this set, this year’s inductee is the only one to boast a GPA north of PSA 9 (9.02), which makes it the finest ever registered on the site.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2016) - 1938 Goudey Baseball Set
During the 1930s, Goudey produced some of the best sports card sets in hobby history. There is no doubt that the 1933 and 1934 sets garner most of the attention, but the smaller 1938 release is no slouch. In fact, one could argue that this set is even tougher to build in high grade than its two predecessors. Even when you do find technically high-grade examples of these cards, the paper stock and its tone can hinder the eye appeal. The content of this issue is power packed, with two cards each of superstars like Joe DiMaggio, Bob Feller, Jimmie Foxx and Hank Greenberg. This fantastic set carries a GPA of 8.21, which makes it the second best 1938 Goudey set ever registered on the site.

Paul Spencer (Redman's 1962 Mars Attacks) (2016) - 1962 Mars Attacks Set
There has never been a question that the 55-card, 1962 Topps Mars Attacks set is one of the most important issues in the non-sports world. This eye-catching and sometimes graphic set captures the play-by-play of what it might be like if earth was invaded by hostile aliens. For the most part, it doesn’t look good for the human race. It might not look great for our civilization, but trading cards have never looked better. So many memorable movies and television shows have been created over the years, founded on the same basic premise, because such a large number of people are fascinated with the subject. Perhaps the most recognizable card in the whole set is #21 Prize Captive. This year’s inductee carries a GPA of 8.42, placing it at #3 on the All-Time Finest list.

Topknot44 (2016) - 1965 Topps Football Set
Just one year earlier, Topps experimented with an oversized card concept by releasing a hockey set with a Tall Boy format in 1964. These giants became very popular with collectors but were harder to preserve in top condition. They were also harder to find well centered since the borders were so narrow. One year later, Topps implemented the same design for their football card issue. Not only has the 176-card set itself remained a collector favorite, but it became home for one of the most important sports card rookies of all time – Joe Namath. The Namath is complemented by the Fred Biletnikoff rookie, various other stars and a number of short prints. This year’s inductee ranks fourth on our All-Time Finest list with an outstanding GPA of 8.51.

tmq510 set-1 (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
tmq510 set-2 (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

The Tull Collection (2016) - 1915 Cracker Jack Baseball
This 176-card set is one of the true staples in the baseball card world. The awesome visual appeal of these cards and tie to the confection that remains part of the song we hear every game during the seventh-inning stretch are just two of the many reasons this set will always be part of the elite. Christy Mathewson, Honus Wagner, Walter Johnson, Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, Shoeless Joe Jackson and more are all captured against a striking red-colored background that makes each card pop. Unlike its predecessor, this set can actually be assembled in high grade as a result of a mail-in offer in place at the time. In exchange for coupons or a combination of coupons and a few nickels, you could obtain a full set and even a custom album for your troubles. Where is a time machine when you need one? This new inductee ranks third on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 8.35.

The Tull Collection (2016) - 1934 Goudey Baseball Set
In terms of visual appeal, there are those who contend that this Goudey issue is actually more attractive than its previous release in 1933. It may be missing Babe Ruth, but that doesn’t stop collectors from pursuing the set, a set that packs plenty of star power without the “Sultan of Swat.” Leading off with Jimmie Foxx in the #1 slot and housing numerous Hall of Famers like Dizzy Dean, Hank Greenberg and two ultra-popular cards of Lou Gehrig, this set gives collectors a hoard of reasons to build it. The vast majority of the cards in this 96-card issue contain quotes from “The Iron Horse,” which include tips on how to play the game. With a GPA of 8.52, this set presently ranks #2 on the All-Time Finest list.

The Tull Collection (2016) - 1948 Bowman Baseball Set
In some ways, the 1948 Bowman set reminds us of the prior inductee. When Bowman entered the baseball card market, they started with a simple design. Using black-and-white photos and a no-frills approach, the simplicity of their first effort sets it apart from the more colorful releases that followed in the coming years. The set, while only 48 cards in total, has a number of key cards within it. This includes rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Stan Musial, Yogi Berra, Warren Spahn and Ralph Kiner. This year’s inductee possesses a GPA of 9.24, tying it for the second-best set ever registered in the category. In fact, it finds itself trailing the #1 set (9.26) by a fraction.

The Tull Collection (2016) - 1953 Topps Baseball Set
Bowman produced some memorable sets during the decade, but Topps took the cake as the premier manufacturer in the 1950s. After releasing its first full set in 1952 and issuing a few smaller ones the year before, Topps kept giving collectors a reason to come back. Year after year, the company designed beautiful cards and 1953 was no exception. What this 274-card set lacks in rookie card strength, it more than makes up for in visual appeal and difficulty. The black-and-red borders can reveal the slightest hint of wear. Luckily for collectors, discoveries like the Canadian Find decades ago ensure that some high-grade examples would become available. Leading off with a #1 card of Jackie Robinson and anchored by classic cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Satchel Paige, this set has plenty of star power. This year’s inductee ranks third on our All-Time Finest list with a terrific GPA of 8.63.

The Tull Collection (2016) - 1954 Topps Baseball Set
Topps kept the eye-popping cards coming in 1954, except this time the rookie cards included helped take their set to another level. Bookended by two desirable cards of Ted Williams (#1 and #250), this set’s foundation rests heavily on the shoulders of first issues of Al Kaline, Ernie Banks and Hank Aaron. The striking colors, which make the set far different from Topps’ first two major efforts, capture many of the top stars of the period like Jackie Robinson and Willie Mays. The two noticeable missing stars are, of course, Mickey Mantle and Stan Musial, but the set doesn’t seem to suffer one bit in popularity. This year’s inductee currently sits in the #2 spot on the All-Time Finest list, carrying a tremendous GPA of 9.08, which is just behind #1 (9.09).

Wheels1313 (ZBT) (2016) - All-Century Baseball Team (Any Medium) Set
Last but not least, our final 2016 inductee is another one from the world of autographs. In 1999, a panel of experts put together a list of the 100 greatest Major League Baseball players from the 20th century. This list included all the icons who helped make the sport America’s pastime. Christy Mathewson, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Babe Ruth, Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax, Mickey Mantle and more were all included. This set requires an autograph from 95 of the 100 names mentioned, with five of them (Eddie Plank, Josh Gibson, Oscar Charleston, Joe Jackson and Willie Keeler) being optional due to extreme rarity. Even without those five autographs, this set is very challenging and it is certainly one of the coolest collections on the registry. The complete set is built entirely on PSA 8s or better. In fact, many of the autographs are PSA 10s.

The William Collection (tire99) (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

wwernick (2016) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
Over the past couple of years, the 1986 Fleer basketball set has experienced a resurgence in the marketplace. It has always been popular and a true staple of the basketball card world, but it has gone to another level in recent times. You can see some of that new energy emerging on the registry, where the competition has become fierce. A total of 356 competitors were active at the time of the deadline. The 132-card set, one with beautiful colored borders, is home to countless Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name a few. Of course, the most popular basketball card ever made resides here too – that of Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to induct anyone who has completed a perfect PSA 10 set that had not already been enshrined. There are several, and they are all worthy of recognition as the 1986 Fleer basketball set has become the modern equivalent to the 1952 Topps baseball set in terms of significance. One could even argue that it might be the single most popular sports card set of all time.

Philip Allison (PJA) (2015) - 1965 Topps King Kong Set
This set is not only based on one of the most iconic figures from the world of fantasy, it is also one of the most iconic sets in the entire non-sports world. As a result, completing this set has become a “monstrous” task. The set, which features black-and-white images from the groundbreaking 1933 film, was pulled from production very early in the process. Topps apparently sold the image rights to Donruss, which is why there are similar images in the 1965 Donruss set that year. One thing is certain. Most collectors prefer the 55-card Topps issue, not just for the scarcity, but for the design as well. The Topps set contains action-packed imagery, along with a more serious tone, while the Donruss set is more light-hearted in nature. This new member of our Hall of Fame has a remarkable GPA of 9.05, making it number one on our All-Time Finest list. It may not be the 8^th Wonder of the World, but the set was clearly worthy of recognition.

Harvey A. Cohen (Hacnac) (2015) - 1959 Topps Baseball Master Set
After Bowman and Topps battled it out at the front end of the decade and up until 1955, Topps dominated the last half. The company produced several of the most memorable baseball card sets ever made, which makes it easy for a very good set to become somewhat overlooked. That would be the best way to describe the 581-card 1959 Topps Master set. The set offers much of what collectors look for in terms of beauty, its contents and the desired level of challenge. Like the 1958 Topps set, this one features great multi-player cards and a high-number, All-Star series. This set also contains 10 key highlight cards, focused on some of the game’s biggest stars like Mickey Mantle and Stan Musial, not to mention the popular #514 Bob Gibson rookie. While the consistency of the paper quality seemed to improve from the prior year, the 1959 Topps set still has its condition issues such as poor centering and commonly-found print defects. The bottom line is that this new member of our Hall of Fame is the finest ever registered on our All-Time list, with a GPA of 9.15.

Jeffrey Daich (p6jeff) (2015) - 1965 Topps Football Set
The 1960s was filled with great football card issues such as the black-bordered 1962 Topps set to the 1966 Philadelphia set. So many Hall of Fame legends made their debuts during the decade. While some of the other 1960s productions may offer superior rookie card selection or difficulty, it’s hard to beat the 1965 Topps Tall Boy set when it comes to popularity. At the core of the set is the rookie card of Joe Namath (#122). This card, in terms of image recognition and symbolic power, is the closest thing to a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in the football card world. The 176-card set is filled with large-format, colorful cards and it even contains a number of Short Prints (SP). This set, now under new ownership, is the finest of its kind in the registry, with a GPA of 8.91.

Jim Doyle (2015) - 1958 Topps Baseball Master Set
The 1958 Topps baseball set is simply a great set, for a host of reasons…but the 534-card Master set is even better. Already one of the more challenging sets to build in high grade due to a plethora of condition-related obstacles, the Master set takes the challenge to a whole new level since it requires all of the tough Yellow Letter variations found in the very first series (1-110). Within that Yellow Letter subset are several stars, including Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron. The set’s key rookie is #47 Roger Maris and the issue is filled with great multi-player cards and a high-number, All-Star series. That All-Star series even contains Stan Musial’s first appearance on a Topps card. This newly enshrined set ranks #1 on our All-Time Finest list, boasting a tremendous GPA of 8.85.

Gould Collection (2015) - 1966 Topps Football Set
Like the 1955 Bowman baseball set and its sister hockey set manufactured the same year, the 1966 Topps football set offers a nice challenge to those collectors seeking high-grade examples. The brown borders that provide such an eye-appealing frame for each image can also create headaches from a condition standpoint. This 132-card set followed the ultra-popular 1965 Topps Tall Boy issue, offering a completely different design. The set is filled with many great stars, including a second-year issue of Joe Namath, but the two toughest and most valuable cards may be the #15 Funny Ring Checklist and the #132 Checklist cards. This new member of our Hall of Fame is finest 1966 Topps football set ever assembled on the registry. It is the only set in the category to ever reach a GPA of PSA 9 or better (9.02).

Robert 'BJ' Jackson (MDCrabCake) (2015) - 1962 Topps Baseball Master Set
Last year, a new leader emerged in the 1962 Topps baseball Master set category. This year, we thought it would be appropriate to reward this leader with our ultimate form of recognition. The 613-card Master set, which contains all the appeal of the Basic set in addition to the tough Green Tints, is loaded with power and infected with difficulty. The brown borders, which vary in shade, can provide nightmares for collectors who prefer top-shelf condition. The set features one of the best #1 cards in the hobby in Roger Maris, two major Hall of Fame rookies in #199 Gaylord Perry and #387 Lou Brock and it contains a variety of “special” cards. You will find multi-player, In Action and regular season highlight cards, Babe Ruth specials, World Series cards and All-Star cards. The set has something for everyone. This new member of our registry Hall of Fame has an unprecedented GPA of 8.90, ranking #1 on the All-Time Finest list.

Rich Katz (Movin' On Up) (2015) - 1954-55 Topps Hockey Set
This inaugural Topps hockey issue has long been regarded as one of the most stunning card productions ever released. Not bad for the company’s first attempt in the hockey marketplace. The cards, which bear some similarities to the 1953 Topps baseball issue, feature awesome artwork of these highly-skilled athletes. At a mere 60 cards, this set may not be enormous in size, but don’t let its reasonable size fool you. This set packs a lot of punch. In fact, the set is so desirable, that there are already 100 collectors competing in this specific category alone. High-grade examples are not easy to locate due to the colored borders, which reveal wear with the slightest touch. The first (#1 Dick Gamble) and last (#60 Milt Schmidt) cards are brutally tough, while the #8 Gordie Howe remains the set’s most popular card. This new member of our registry Hall of Fame is now the second finest set on our All-Time list with a GPA of 8.34 at the time of the enshrinement.

J. C. Korth (2015) - Pete Rose Master Set
One of the real growth areas of the registry has been within the Player Set categories. It gives collectors a chance to focus in on some of their favorite athletes as opposed to collecting all of the players required in a more traditional, manufactured set. This year, we decided to enshrine our first modern Player Set – the Master Set of Pete Rose. At the time of the awards deadline, this fantastic set was 100% complete and carried a GPA of 8.80, making it the best one of its kind on our All-Time Finest list. The set also features 125 Pop 1s! The challenge that Master Player Sets pose, whether they are vintage or modern, is that the list is far greater in size and scope than the Basic Sets. The Rose Master Set is filled with regionals, test issues, coins, stamps, oddball items and more. You need ALL of them…and this collector has them. Rose may not have a plaque in Cooperstown, but his cards fit nicely in our Hall of Fame.

Charles M. Merkel (2015) - 1949 Bowman Baseball Master Set
Bowman released some beautiful baseball card sets and each of them has remained popular until this day. Within that run of issues, Bowman varied the design quite a bit. The company started with a simplistic black-and-white design and a very small set at only 48 total cards in 1948, but they soon expanded their set size and introduced color for the remainder of the run. That noticeable move started in 1949, when Bowman issued a 240-card set and injected color into the design. The results were terrific. The set has several key cards, led by rookies of #50 Jackie Robinson, #84 Roy Campanella, #224 Satchel Paige and #226 Duke Snider. This newly enshrined set is of the Master variety, with 252 required cards. It also resides in the #1 spot on our All-Time Finest list, carrying a top GPA of 8.96.

Charles M. Merkel (2015) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball Set
The 160-card 1953 Bowman baseball card set has always been considered one of the most beautiful releases of the 1950s, if not ever. The simplicity of the design and gorgeous photography have attracted collectors since they were first distributed to the public. The set has plenty of stars, an extra-tough series (cards 113-128) and even a couple of multi-player cards featuring some key New York Yankee players of the period such as Mickey Mantle and Yogi Berra. This newly enshrined collection is the finest 1953 Bowman set ever assembled on the registry, carrying an unmatched GPA of 8.99.

Charles M. Merkel (2015) - 1961 Topps Baseball Basic Set
The summer of 1961 was a special one for baseball fans. Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris battled it out at the plate in an epic home run chase of the single-season record holder, Babe Ruth. Eventually, it would be Maris that would eclipse Ruth with his 61^st home run on the final day of the season as Mantle faded down the stretch due to injury. That year was also a great year for baseball cards as Topps, once again, produced an attractive set. The 587-card issue has a little bit of everything for the collector. There are key rookies, like those of Ron Santo (#35), Billy Williams (#141) and Juan Marichal (#417). There are plenty of special multi-player cards, career and World Series highlight cards, not to mention MVP and high-number All-Star cards. This new member of our registry Hall of Fame is the top dog on our All-Time Finest list, boasting a GPA of 9.20.

Curt Schmidgall (The Hawkeye Collection) (2015) - 1952 Bowman Small Football Set
Both the 1952 Bowman Large and Small football card sets are considered key gridiron issues by hobbyists. While the “Large” set usually receives the lion’s share of the attention, most experienced collectors will tell you that the “Small” set is the tougher of the two to complete in high grade. This 144-card set features fantastic color artwork, which was a signature of Bowman during the 1950s. The set also contains several key cards, including but not limited to the first (#1 Norm Van Brocklin) and last (#144 Jim Lansford), in addition to several Hall of Fame rookies like #99 Joe Stydahar. This new member of our Hall of Fame has taken over the #2 spot on our All-Time Finest list, possessing a GPA of 8.10.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2015) - 1933 Goudey Baseball Set
The 240-card, 1933 Goudey baseball card set is one of the true staples in the hobby. The artwork, the color and the absolutely incredible player selection make this set a collector favorite. Anchored by the quartet of Babe Ruth cards (#s 53, 144, 149 and 181), this set is loaded with superstar power, including two cards each of sluggers like Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx and Mel Ott. In addition, the Benny Bengough card is one of the most notable #1 cards in the entire hobby, along with the 1952 Topps Andy Pafko. Sprinkle in an insanely tough low-number series and you have just about everything you can think of in one set. This newly enshrined set has a GPA of 8.15, making it one of the finest ever registered in the category.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2015) - 1939 Play Ball Baseball Basic Set
In the 1939 Play Ball category, we have a new All-Time Finest leader in 2015. Separating itself from some other stellar sets, this new member of our Hall of Fame carries an unrivaled GPA of 8.73, making it the best set of its kind.This 161-card set was the first in a series of three major baseball card sets produced by Play Ball (1939-1941). The keys to the set are the #92 Ted Williams rookie card, featuring an image of a very young “Splendid Splinter,” and the #26 Joe DiMaggio. Both star outfielders would become legends over the next two decades, with each man putting up remarkable numbers at the plate. The set finishes with a difficult high-number series (115-162), and even though it is numbered to 162, the company never issued a #126 card.

Bumchex (2014) - 1962 Topps Mars Attacks
There is simply no doubt that the 55-card, 1962 Topps Mars Attacks set is one of the most important issues in the non-sports world. This eye-catching and sometimes graphic set captures the play-by-play of what it might be like if earth was invaded by hostile aliens. For the most part, it doesn’t look good for us humans. So many memorable movies and television shows have been created over the years, founded on the same basic premise, because such a large number of people are fascinated with the subject. This year’s inductee is the finest Mars Attacks set ever registered, boasting a stunning GPA of 8.71 at the time of enshrinement in an ultra-competitive category.

R. Clark (2014) - 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Set
In the history of the PSA Set Registry, we have rarely inducted modern-era sets into the Hall of Fame, but there are exceptions to the rule. For example, we have placed several PSA 10 sets of 1986 Fleer basketball cards in our special hall since it is home to one of the most important rookie cards of all-time in Michael Jordan. While there are other important aspects to that set and this one, the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee hockey set, the importance of an iconic rookie card can’t be underestimated. Wayne Gretzky is to hockey what Jordan is to basketball. This 396-card set is plagued with problematic centering, print defects and issues from the erratic O-Pee-Chee cuts. This year’s inductee is the finest set on our all-time list with a GPA of 8.87, making it the first of its kind to be enshrined.

Jon Fischbach (Captain Jon) (2014) - 1977 Topps Star Wars
This super-popular set has the honor of being our very first modern, non-sports set to be inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame. Star Wars has become such a huge part of American pop culture that there are almost no words that can be used to describe it and the franchise continues on, generating new legions of fans each year. In fact, a new Star Wars movie is due out in 2016. The first movie, however, is the one that changed movie-going forever and this first major set will forever be linked to that landmark film. At 330 cards, this is one of the larger non-sports set you will encounter. The category is one of the more hotly-contested on the registry, but one set has risen to the top of our All-Time Finest list in 2014, with a GPA of 9.88.

Michael Frank (hockeywax) (2014) - 1953-54 Parkhurst Hockey Basic Set
The 100-card 1953 Parkhurst hockey card set is one of the beautiful hockey issues ever released. In fact, of all the important Parkhurst issues of the era, most hobbyists feel that this issue is clearly the best looking of them all. It is also one of the toughest sets, plagued by toning and other condition issues. Hall of Famer rookies of Jean Beliveau, Gump Worsley, Andy Bathgate and Harry Howell can be found in this set, with the Beliveau regarded as the most desirable of the group. This year’s inductee has a stellar and unmatched GPA of 8.41, the highest ever recorded on the registry. Furthermore, it is the first 1953 Parkhurst hockey set to ever be inducted in our hallowed hall.

Brian Glaser (GradedTickets) (2014) - Super Bowl Basic Set Tickets
In the world of ticket collecting, there may not be a more popular collecting theme or set than this one. Collecting a single ticket from every Super Bowl is to the hobby what the actual game is to sports fans. Every year, diehard and casual fans alike gather in small groups to watch the big game and all that comes with the big event, including the halftime entertainment and commercials. It has become the single most popular sports event in our country with a crossover appeal that is lacking in other sports. Not all the games are competitive but the event itself has become a part of the American fabric. From Broadway Joe’s guarantee in 1969 to Lynn Swann’s leaping catch in 1980, all the great moments are captured here. This year’s inductee is the second best complete set on our All-Time Finest list.

Rich Katz (Movin' On Up) (2014) - 1958-59 Topps Hockey Set
Consider this. In all the years the PSA Set Registry has been operating, there have only been two complete 1958 Topps hockey sets to ever reach an overall GPA of PSA 8 or better. If you weren’t convinced before or unaware, this set is really, really tough. Poor centering, paper stock and print defects all contribute to the challenge in this 66-card set. Of course, the set is anchored by one of the most important rookie cards in the hobby – the Bobby Hull #66 – which is often found with subpar centering. This year’s inductee carries a GPA of 8.23, placing it head and shoulders above any set ever registered on the site.

Rich Katz (Movin' On Up) (2014) - 1964-65 Topps Hockey Set
During the 1960s, Topps unveiled a “Tall Boy” design that they used for Basketball (1969), Football (1965) and Hockey cards (1964). All of the sets remain popular with collectors due to their eye-catching design but, in terms of difficulty, the 1964 hockey issue has the advantage. This 110-card set contains some tough short prints and checklist cards, a high-number All Star series and a slew of ice legends like Gordie Howe and Bobby Hull. What is frightening about the quality of this year’s inductee is that it has a GPA of 8.83 out of a possible 8.85. Needless to say, it is the finest of its kind ever registered on the site and more than worthy of enshrinement in 2014.

Daniel R. Mims (Mims Collection - Bob Marcy Tribute) (2014) - 1933 Goudey Indian Gum
In 2014, we recognized our first 19th century non-sports set, the 1888 N2 Celebrated American Indian Chiefs. That beautiful 50-card set is, arguably, the most popular Indian-based set from the pre-1900 era. The 1933 Goudey Indian set is, perhaps, the most popular of the post-1900 era. It is much larger in size at 216 cards but offers similar aesthetic appeal, and each card is booming with vibrant colors. There are action sequences and even cards of subjects like Billy the Kid, Davy Crockett and General Custer. According to hobbyists, the toughest cards in the series are cards from #110-#152. This year’s inductee is the finest set ever registered on the site, boasting a GPA of 7.82.

Michael Rakosi (Rookie Ecstasy) (2014) - Hall of Fame Rookies Basketball Set
Many of the sets that have been inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame have been of the traditional variety. In other words, these are sets that were issued by the manufacturer and the checklists are, in essence, built in to the collector hunt. There are also sets, and some very popular and important ones, that require creativity and constant updating to maintain completion. This is one of those sets. This set is comprised of every basketball Hall of Fame rookie card known. From Bill Russell to Wilt Chamberlain to Michael Jordan and beyond, you need them all and the list keeps growing as new Hall of Famers are named. This year’s PSA inductee has a top-notch GPA of 8.89, the best ever on the registry.

Kevin Roberson (Elitecards) (2014) - 1971 Topps Football Set
Very rarely have we inducted card sets that were produced in the post-1970 era but, as time goes on and the registry evolves, more sets from this era have become worthy of our highest honor. The 1971 Topps football card set has become one of the most popular categories on the registry in recent years. In the marketplace, even “commons” can bring extraordinary prices in top grades as a result of the competition and tough colored borders. This 263-card set contains some key rookie cards of football Hall of Famers like Mean Joe Greene and Terry Bradshaw in addition to popular cards for Joe Namath and Johnny Unitas – the #1 card in the series. This year’s inductee ranks at the top of our All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 8.93.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2014) - 1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey Set
It’s hard to argue with the importance of the 1951 Parkhurst hockey card set. Home to a small army of elite, Hall of Famer rookie cards, this set includes inaugural issues of Maurice Richard, Terry Sawchuk and Gordie Howe to name just a fraction of the group. This 105-card set was made with a relatively simple design on the front, including blank backs throughout the set. The issue is plagued by print defects as well as centering issue, making high-grade copies extremely desirable. In fact, prices for stellar examples have been breaking records for a few years now. This year’s inductee is, quite simply, the best set ever assembled in the category, possessing an unmatched GPA of 8.57.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1909-11 T206 Baseball Basic Set
The T206 baseball card set is, arguably, the most iconic issue ever produced. At a monstrous 524 cards, these beautiful, tiny pieces of artwork have captivated collectors for generations. In fact, in recent years, the set has seemingly grown in popularity. Tull’s set contains every Hall of Famer in PSA NM-MT 8 or better with the exception of the Honus Wagner (PSA VG-EX 4) and Eddie Plank (PSA NM 7) and all of the key rarities. This is the finest complete T206 baseball set ever assembled on the website with an overall GPA of 7.64. The PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame was created for sets like this one and it stands currently unmatched.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1933 Goudey Baseball Set
Recognized as one of The Big Three, the beautiful 1933 Goudey set has long been one of the most popular baseball card sets ever produced. It is also one of the most hotly contested categories on the registry as most key baseball card collectors consider this issue to be essential to any comprehensive collection. Within the 240-card set is an array of stars, including four Babe Ruth cards at the heart of the set. There are also two cards each of several major Hall of Famers like Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx and Mel Ott, not to mention the #106 Napoleon Lajoie card - one of the iconic rarities in the hobby. Tull’s set is, quite simply, the finest ever registered on the site, exhibiting an unrivaled GPA of 8.36.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1941 Play Ball Baseball Set
In the summer of 1941, two of baseball’s biggest stars put on a show for the ages. Joe DiMaggio hit safely in 56 straight games and Ted Williams hit .406 for the entire season, a man who actually raised his batting average on the final day with an amazing performance at the plate. The 1941 Play Ball set, the most popular and visually appealing of the three year Play Ball run (1939-1941), is home to these two legends and more. This 72-card set also offers great cards of sluggers Mel Ott, Jimmie Foxx and Hank Greenberg to name a few, in addition to the only recognized rookie of Pee Wee Reese. This year’s inductee is the finest set ever registered in the category, boasting a GPA of 8.69.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1951 Bowman Baseball Set
Once again, a legendary set that has no peer in terms of quality has taken center stage. The colorful 1951 Bowman baseball card set is as important as they come in terms of key rookie cards, aesthetic appeal and popularity. During the 1950s, there were several gorgeous baseball card sets released and many of those sets contained incredibly important rookie cards, but only one set is home to the only true rookie cards of elite Hall of Famers Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays…not to mention New York Yankee ace Whitey Ford. On top of having the best set in registry history, with an unthinkable GPA of 9.19, Tull also owns the only PSA Gem Mint 10 Mantle rookie. As great as some of the other sets are within the category, it is hard to imagine this set ever being caught.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1952 Topps Baseball Master Set
The 1952 Topps set has long been considered the king of postwar baseball issues. The slightly larger format and the wonderful selection of great stars have separated this set from all others during the period. Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, Yogi Berra and Mickey Mantle find themselves sandwiched between the most important #1 card in the entire hobby (Andy Pafko) and the final card in the set (Eddie Mathews). What makes this inductee even more impressive is that it is a Master set, which means you need 83 more cards than the Basic version. This includes all of the black and red backs (1-80) and other noteworthy variations. This is the second best set on the All-Time Finest list, possessing a GPA of 8.43.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball Set
This 160-card set has always been adored for its simplistic design, showcasing attractive color photos on the front surrounded by white borders. It is a lesson and a reminder that, sometimes, less is more. The set, which contains a great selection of stars like Mickey Mantle, Stan Musial, Whitey Ford, Yogi Berra, Bob Feller and an iconic card of Pee Wee Reese, also offers additional challenges within. In particular, the cards found in the 113-128 series can be outright brutal to find in high-grade as they are often off-center. The handful of combo or multi-player cards add a little pizazz to this gorgeous set. This year’s inductee is the finest ever assembled on the registry, with a GPA of 8.97.

The Tull Collection (2014) - 1955 Topps Baseball Set
The 206-card, 1955 Topps baseball set is defined by vibrant color and immense star appeal. The unquestioned rookie cards of Sandy Koufax, Roberto Clemente and Harmon Killebrew reside here and the star power doesn’t end there. Sprinkle in collector-favorite cards of Ted Williams, Ernie Banks, Hank Aaron, Jackie Robinson, Duke Snider (the final card in the set) and Willie Mays – to name a few – and you can see why this set has always been so popular. Just imagine if a Mickey Mantle card were included in this aesthetically-appealing set. Collectors can still dream. This year’s inductee is the highest-rated set on the All-Time Finest list, boasting a GPA of 8.97.

Jim Blumenthal (2013) - 1910 Standard Caramel (E93) Baseball Set
Since 2002, this stellar E93 set has remained in the #1 spot, and no complete collection in registry history has come close in terms in quality. This 30-card set, which contains a high percentage of stars and Hall of Famers like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson and Honus Wagner, has an almost unthinkable GPA of 8.10. To put the quality of this set in perspective, the next best set in the category has a GPA of 6.16, almost two full points lower. The complete and utter dominance of this set helped earn it a place in the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame in 2013.

Bert Caverson (2013) - 1954-55 Parkhurst Basic & 1954-55 Parkhurst Master Hockey Set
The world of vintage hockey is filled with very tough sets, especially for the high-grade collector. The 1954 Parkhurst set is a perfect example of this. While this set is often overshadowed by its Topps counterpart, this Parkhurst issue has tons of appeal, including a very interesting high-number series that contains In Action shots. In the entire history of the registry, only one 100-card complete set (Basic) has ever reached an overall GPA of PSA 8 or better. This set is that one set, possessing a GPA of 8.01. The Master version of this set, which contains 157 total cards at this time and includes all the known Lucky Premium backs, also ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list (7.88); and there is no other set close to completion.

Steven R. Crane (SRC) (2013) - 1965 Topps Football
Once Topps took over as the top manufacturer for football cards, post-Bowman, the brand continued to dominate into the 1960s. Fleer was also producing sets during the time, as was the Philadelphia Gum Co., but Topps was still the top dog. In 1965, one year following a "Tall Boy" experiment in their 1964 hockey card release, the company decided to try the supersized design in their football issue. The result was a 176-card masterpiece, which included one of the most recognizable rookie cards ever made - Joe Namath. All three inaugural Tall Boy releases (1964 hockey, 1965 football and 1969 basketball) are amongst the most popular sets in their respective sports. This particular set ranks #2 on the All-Time Finest list, with a GPA of 8.40.

Steven Ferrell (SF) (2013) - 500 Home Run Club Single Signed Baseballs
The PSA/DNA Set Registry continues to grow as collectors develop all sorts of creative themes within the registry. One of the more classic autograph themes has always been collecting single-signed baseballs of the 500 Home Run Club members. These are the guys who excite the crowd with their prodigious blasts. Everything stopped when they came to the plate because you knew something special could happen or the game could be turned around with one swing. The three most important autographed balls in the set belong to Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx and Mel Ott, with Ott being the toughest to find of the three. At the time of the awards, you needed 25 different single-signed baseballs to complete the set, and this particular collection ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 9.47. It is also the first autograph set to be inducted into the PSA Set Registry HOF.

Al Glaser (TicketCollector) (2013) - All-Star Game Tickets
In 1933, none other than Babe Ruth christened the very first All-Star Game by crushing a home run into the stands, propelling the American League to victory. Since that inaugural exhibition, the mid-summer classic has provided plenty of memorable moments. There have been stunning pitching performances like those of Carl Hubbell in 1934 and Fernando Valenzuela in 1986, to devastating drives from the likes of Stan Musial in 1955 and Reggie Jackson in 1971. At the time of the awards deadline, you needed 83 different tickets to complete the set. Keep in mind that there was a brief time (1959-1962) when two All-Star Games were played each season, which is why there is more than one ticket required per year. This particular set is the finest complete set on the site and, so far, there is no other set that has come close to its level of quality.

David Avant Lithgow (Odessa File) (2013) - 1957 Topps Basic Football Set
In the world of football cards, the 1957 Topps set is clearly one of the most important and popular issues ever released. Anchored by the three big rookie cards of Paul Hornung, Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas, this 155-card set has always been a collector favorite. In fact, there are several other Hall of Fame rookie cards in the set like Raymond Berry and Dick Lane as well. In high-grade, these colorful cards can be extremely appealing, but they are often riddled with print defects and have little room for error when it comes to centering. This year's winner not only ranks #1 on the Current Finest list, it is also the finest set ever assembled in the category. With a stunning GPA of 8.73, no finer set is known at this time. David has dedicated his set as a tribute to his mother, Odessa.

Don Louchios (2013) - 1933 Delong Baseball Set
This 24-card set may not be very big in terms of sheer volume, but it remains one of the most important prewar issues of the period. Anchored by fantastic cards of legends like Mickey Cochrane, Lefty Grove, Jimmie Foxx and Lou Gehrig, these colorful cards are representative of the beautiful cards produced during the decade like the 1933 Goudeys and 1934-36 Diamond Stars. The Delong cards can be tough to find centered and often exhibit border toning. This particular set ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list (8.05) and is one of only two sets ever registered with a GPA of PSA 8 or better.

Charles M. Merkel (2013) - 1934-36 Diamond Stars Basic & 1934-36 Diamond Stars Master Baseball Set
The 1934-36 Diamond Stars Baseball (Basic) Set already comes in at 108 total cards, but when it comes to the Master Set, the number increases substantially to 170. The release, which contains great artwork and a fine selection of big names like Mel Ott, Rogers Hornsby, Jimmie Foxx and the tough #1 card of Lefty Grove, also contains a very tough high-number series (97-108). These cards are significantly tougher than cards from the earlier series. The Master Set contains all the possible variations, including the year varieties, and the popular Hank Greenberg (Greenburg) misspelled card. This collection ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list in both the Basic (8.70) and Master (8.37) categories.

Ronnie Paloger (Bombaye) (2013) - 1951 Bowman Jets, Rockets, Spacemen
Sci-fi and aliens are amongst the more popular subjects in the world of non-sports trading cards. While the super popular 1962 Topps Mars Attacks set is often referred to as the definitive set within this genre, there was a very important issue that predated the Mars Attacks cards by over 10 years. The imaginative 1951 Bowman Jets, Rockets and Spacemen set is filled with vibrant artwork throughout this 108-card issue. This particular set is the best collection ever registered with PSA, and it remains the only complete set to ever reach a GPA of PSA 8 or better (8.15).

Marc R. Schoenen (Phillies Phan) (2013) - Mike Schmidt Master Set
Collecting by player has become a more and more popular segment on the registry as the years have gone by. The Basic sets can be challenging enough, but in most cases, the Master sets are infinitely more difficult to complete due to the overwhelming number of non-mainstream cards needed to finish the set. Take this set for example. The Mike Schmidt Basic set requires 47 total cards. The Schmidt Master set requires 660 cards! Yes, you need all the key cards like his 1973 Topps rookie, but you also need all the obscure items, from the scarce 1972 Puerto Rican League sticker to his tough mid-1970s O-Pee-Chee cards to his 1985 Topps Test Mini. This particular Master set carries an overall GPA of 9.52, and it has remained in the #1 spot for over 10 years in the registry.

Bill Schonsheck (reaching new heights) (2013) - 1969-70 Topps Basketball Set
The set registry is ever-evolving in many respects and that includes the ebb and flow of competition over time. With two outstanding 1969 Topps sets already inducted into the set registry HOF, this year's winner has now vaulted itself into the #1 spot and is the finest of all-time. In this 99-card classic, so many key basketball cards reside. From the #1 card of Wilt Chamberlain to the multitude of key rookies like those of Connie Hawkins, Walt Frazier and Lew Alcindor, these colorful giants remain popular today along with their sister 1964 Topps Hockey and 1965 Topps Football Tall Boy sets. With a GPA of 9.19, this set tops all the rest in this very competitive category.

Bill Schonsheck (First Recollection) (2013) - 1958 Topps Football Set
The 1950s produced many memorable football card sets that have stood the test of time. From the early Bowman sets to the Topps sets from later in the decade, that ten-year span is rich with collector favorites. One year after producing what many regard as one of the most significant gridiron issues ever released, Topps grabbed the attention of the hobby again. This time, instead of being centered on three key rookies, the eye-catching set was anchored by one hugely important rookie card in Jim Brown. Yes, the set also contains an important rookie card of Sonny Jurgensen and some key second-year cards like that of Johnny Unitas, but the Brown is, by far, the nucleus. This particular set, which includes the 132 cards plus the Felt Initial card, is the finest ever assembled on the registry with a GPA of 8.72.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2013) - 1948 Bowman Baseball Set
This 48-card Bowman issue was the first in a series of popular baseball card sets manufactured between 1948 and 1955. During that period, the brand rivaled Topps, and to this day, some of the most important baseball cards ever made are Bowmans. In fact, some of those hobby classics reside in their first issue, like rookie cards of Yogi Berra, Warren Spahn and Stan Musial. This classic black-and-white set has nearly 100 competitors in the category, but this one has risen to the top on the All-Time Finest list, carrying a GPA of 9.23.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2013) - 1958 Topps Master Baseball Set
This set, which contains one of the more popular and difficult group of variations in the low number Yellow Letters, has always been a popular choice with collectors. The set, which is filled with great star cards, multi-player cards and a high-number All-Star series, is very tough to assemble in top grades. Print defects, poor paper, centering issues and inconsistent print quality combine to provide a real challenge for those looking for stellar examples. The set starts with Ted Williams and contains a host of stars, including a great combo card of Mickey Mantle and Hank Aaron entitled World Series Batting Foes. This year's winner ranks as the finest of all-time with a GPA of 8.73.

St. Bea (2013) - 1957-58 Topps Basketball
There are certain trading card sets that just embody the challenge of condition rarity. In the world of basketball cards, one could argue that no other set provides a more significant challenge in high-grade than this one - the 1957 Topps Basketball issue. Plagued by poor centering and terrible print problems, this set is rarely compiled in PSA 8 or better condition. In fact, there have only been three complete sets ever registered to reach that level of quality. Containing a hoard of key Hall of Famer rookie cards like those of Bob Cousy, Tommy Heinsohn and Bill Russell, the star power helps lure many collectors into the daunting challenge. This particular set ranks #2 on the All-Time Finest list at 8.07.

Super Bowl (2013) - Super Bowl Basic Set Tickets
Collecting one ticket from each Super Bowl is, arguably, the most popular ticket collecting theme in the hobby. This complete run, from 1967-present, is the finest collection ever registered on our site. Keep in mind that this is one of the most competitive ticket categories on the registry. The game itself is, perhaps, the sport that appeals most to the mainstream audience as families and friends have been gathering for decades to watch the big game. From Joe Namath's "guarantee" in 1969 to Lynn Swan's miraculous grab in 1980 to the 2008 comeback by the New York Giants, the memories are abound in this appealing ticket set.

AE Collection (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Adam Baron Cohen (Mickey's Twinight) (2012) - 1935 Gum Inc. Mickey Mouse Set
Mickey Mouse is one of the many iconic characters that helped define the Disney empire, which virtually covers the entire planet. There have been many popular movies over the decades, which have helped bring fairy tales to life for generations of children throughout the world, but it all started with Mickey Mouse. In 1928, Mickey made his first appearance in an animated cartoon entitled Steamboat Willie and the rest is history. In addition to its sheer importance, this 96-card set is one of the toughest non-sports issues to find in high-grade. This year's inductee ranks #1 on the All-Time Finest list with an excellent GPA of 7.67.

Jim Crandell (2012) - 1948 Bowman Basketball Set
When it comes to vintage basketball sets, the 1948 Bowman issue is clearly one of the most important releases in the sport's history. The 72-card set, which closely resembles the 1949 Bowman baseball issue in design, is filled with Hall of Fame rookie cards like those of Joe Fulks, Buddy Jeanette, Max Zaslofsky and Jim Pollard but the clear key to the set is the George Mikan rookie card - which the majority hobbyists feel is the most important basketball card of all time. This year's inductee is only the third set in registry history to reach a GPA of PSA 8 or better at 8.05.

Dominic Dicicco Collection (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Jeffrey Gitomer (2012) - 1939 Play Ball Master Set
Most collectors who are drawn to the 1939 Play Ball set will tell you that there is just something about the design and its simplicity that appeals to them. The classic black and white photographs are not in competition with overly ornate borders or large facsimile signatures, the photos stand alone. The great swing of a young Ted Williams to the smile of Joe DiMaggio are all captured in various poses, some are simple portraits like Mel Ott while others pictured with their tools of the trade like Bill Dickey. This year's inductee is the first to reach 100% completion at 276 cards (versus only 161 in the Basic set) and it carries a GPA of 7.33 At this time, there is no other set that comes close.

Hatch Graham (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

HPR-66TPS (2012) - 1966-67 Topps Hockey Set
During the 1960s, you would be hard pressed to identify a more noteworthy hockey set than this one. Other than the tough, "Tall Boy" issue from 1964, the 1966 Topps set is a cut above, offering condition sensitivity and player power. Each card in the entire 132-card set is framed by brown borders, which will reveal the slightest hint of wear. In addition, the set is home to one of the most important hockey cards ever made - the rookie card of Hall of Famer Bobby Orr. There is also a nice high-number run of All-Star cards to finish off the classic issue. This year's inductee is the finest set ever registered on the site, carrying an unimaginable GPA of 8.32.

Jon Isaacson (Redskins PSA 10 Set) (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

LoanOfficerSchool (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Master Macboube (2012) - 1955 Topps All-American Football Master Set
A few years back, there was a small but incredible find of 1955 Topps All-American cello boxes. This small find produced many of the top PSA-graded examples we see today and it has enabled a few different collectors to assemble some pretty impressive sets. Along with all the cards required in the Basic set of 100 cards, which includes those of Jim Thorpe, Don Hutson and the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame, two scarce error cards are also required. Some versions of the #14 Gaynell Tinsley and #21 Whizzer White cards were produced with the wrong backs. In fact, the backs were interchanged, resulting in two valuable rarities. This year's inductee is the finest Master set ever registered, boasting a GPA of 8.95.

Tom Malito (Teemu) (2012) - 1954-55 Topps Hockey Set
There is no doubt that Parkhurst dominated the decade of the 1950s when it came to hockey card production but, when Topps unleashed their inaugural 1954 set on the public, it was a time to remember. A hobbyist can still make the argument that this is the most attractive trading set ever manufactured. The 60-card masterpiece has electric colors and the red/blue bottom border is very susceptible to chipping and wear. While there are no major rookies in the set, the set does include over a dozen Hall of Famers, all captured with outstanding artwork. This year's inductee has a magnificent GPA of 8.24, which ranks #2 on the All-Time Finest list.

Charles M. Merkel (2012) - 1941 Play Ball Baseball Set
This particular set vaulted its way into the Hall of Fame in 2012 by tying the All-Time Finest set for the top spot. With a GPA of 8.68, it now shares the glory as the best ever assembled on the site. This 72-card release was the only Play Ball release to inject color into the design, which makes this issue a favorite amongst collectors. When you couple the wonderful eye appeal of the cards with the significance of the year, competition can get heated. It was the year of DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak and Teddy Ballgame's .406 finish, making him the last man to hit .400. The gorgeous set is a fitting tribute to a unforgettable summer.

Charles M. Merkel (2012) - 1950 Bowman Baseball Set
The 1950 Bowman baseball set is often overlooked. Unlike some of its Bowman predecessors, the set is not filled with Hall of Fame rookie cards but, after issuing the 48-card set in 1948 and 240-card set in 1949, Bowman increased its size again with 252 total cards in 1950. More importantly, the great artwork that Bowman became known for made its first appearance in 1950. Yes, Bowman did add color in 1949 but not like this. If there is such a thing as the Bowman "look", the 1950 set was the first set to showcase it. There are plenty of big names included, such as Jackie Robinson and Ted Williams, and it remains the finest 1950 Bowman set ever assembled with a GPA of 8.94.

Charles M. Merkel (2012) - 1933 Goudey Sport Kings Set
The 1933 Goudey Sport Kings set is one of the most interesting issues ever released, mainly due to its incredible diversity. From Babe Ruth to Babe Didrickson, from football to swimming, this classic 48-card set covers a plethora of sports and does so with terrific artwork. There's an even a card dedicated to dog sledding! The issue begins with Ty Cobb and includes several key cards, including the most popular card of golfing legend Bobby Jones. This year's inductee ranks third on the Current Finest list with a GPA of 8.23.

palacejester (2012) - 1952 Bowman Small Football Set
Throughout the early 1950s, Bowman continued its excellence in card design. In 1952, Bowman may have arguably hit its peak. Releasing two sets, a small and large version of the same basic cards, Bowman left an indelible mark on the hobby. While many collectors view the large version as being more popular, there is no doubt that the small version remains tougher to locate in high-grade. Starting with a #1 card of Norm Van Brocklin and ending with card #144 in Jim Lansford, both condition rarities, this set provides one of the great hobby challenges. This year's inductee ranks #1 on the Current Finest list with a GPA of 7.98.

Gregory Panos (The GP PSA 10 Collection) (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Larry Robbins (L.R.) (2012) - 1954 Bowman Baseball Basic Set
The 1954 Bowman baseball set is one that is often overshadowed by its Topps counterpart but, unlike the Topps set, the Bowman issue contains the only mainstream card of Mickey Mantle from that year. In addition to the Mantle card, this 225-card set contains one of the most significant postwar baseball cards in Ted Williams, which was pulled from production early due to a contract dispute. The quality of this year's inductee is stupendous with a GPA of 9.08, which makes it the only set in registry history to reach a PSA 9 average and the set includes 31 PSA Gem Mint 10s. No finer 1954 Bowman set.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2012) - 1915 Cracker Jack Baseball Set
The 1915 Cracker Jack set is one of the real staples of the baseball card hobby, just like the candy has been to the sport itself. Booming with rich, red color behind classic images of the period's greatest players, the Cracker Jack issue has long been a favorite of collectors. The intensity of Ty Cobb to the regal portrait of Christy Mathewson to the sheer joy found in Shoeless Joe Jackson's smile are all captured here in this 176-card set. This year's inductee is the best 100% complete set on the Current Finest list with a stellar GPA of 8.28.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2012) - 1940 Play Ball Baseball Set
Born between the classic 1939 and 1941 Play Ball sets, the 1940 release has long suffered from middle-child syndrome. While sometimes overlooked, the reality is that this Play Ball issue is not only the largest set of the three, it is also the toughest. Leading off with Joe DiMaggio and including several legends of the past like Shoeless Joe Jackson and Honus Wagner, this 240-card set is not for the faint of heart. This year's inductee boats a terrific GPA of 8.04, which makes it the only complete set on the registry to reach a PSA 8 or better average.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2012) - 1952 Topps Baseball Master Set
The Master sets are certainly more difficult to complete but, today, more collectors are of the belief that a set isn't truly complete until you have all the known card variations. Here, instead of the traditional 407 cards needed for the Basic 1952 Topps set, you need 490 total cards, which includes all the Black backs and Red backs in the first series (cards 1-80). The challenge goes far beyond Pafko, Mantle and Mathews. This particular set is only the second collection ever to reach 100% completion in the category with an overall GPA of PSA 8 or better (8.40).

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2012) - 1953 Topps Baseball Set
The follow up to the classic 1952 Topps baseball set is no slouch. As a truly condition-sensitive set, with extremely fragile, colored bottom borders, some collectors steer clear of this challenge. That said, when the cards are found in high-grade, they can be some of the most attractive cards you will ever see. That is the reward for those who attempt to complete it. Beginning with Jackie Robinson in the #1 slot and filled with key cards of players like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Satchel Paige, this 274-card set also contains a fair amount of short prints. This year's inductee ranks second on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 8.46.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Sarah and Joe Verno (2012) - 1950 Bowman Football Set
In terms of design, this classic football issue is a virtual twin of its sister baseball set and it remains one of the most beautiful vintage football issues ever released. This colorful, 144-card set is filled with a tremendous selection of Hall of Fame rookies including, but not limited to, those of Y.A. Tittle, Lou Groza, Marion Motley, Tom Fears, Elroy Hirsch and - of course - Otto Graham, the key to the set along with the #1 card of Doak Walker. This year's inductee is nothing short of dominant. With a GPA of 8.89, there is no set within striking distance of this great collection.

Richard F. Weigle (Vintage Corvette) (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

The Who 82 (2012) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Set
There is no question that the 1986 Fleer basketball set remains one of the most important sets ever produced. What is, perhaps, more telling than anything else is that there are more participants in this category than in any other set category on the entire registry (244). This colorful 132-card set defined an entire era of basketball, an era that most people consider the best in NBA history. So many basketball icons can be found in this set, including several Hall of Fame rookies like those of Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins. The anchor of the set is the most recognizable rookie in basketball card history - Michael Jordan. This year, we decided to acknowledge all the registrants who have achieved a perfect PSA Gem Mint 10 set in the most popular category on the site.

Simon Bourque (Simgin) (2011) - 1911-12 C55 Master Hockey Set
Much like the T206 baseball set, this tiny tobacco issue has become a staple in the world of hockey cards. The C55, C56 and C57 sets are all highly collectible but the 1911-12 C55 issue is the one that contains the single most important card of the bunch – the #38 Georges Vezina rookie. There are other keys within the C55 issue like those of Cyclone Taylor, Art Ross and Newsy Lalonde but the Vezina is the most prized of this relatively small set of less than 50 cards. The GPA of this particular set is an unbelievable 7.30, making it - by far – the finest set ever registered with PSA.

John Branca #2 (2011) - 1952 Topps Basic Baseball Set
Our 2011 Rookie Set of the Year is of such high quality that we decided to place it alongside the other legendary collections in the category. In fact, this newly registered set already ranks higher than four other 1952 Topps sets already inducted into the HOF. The importance of the issue cannot be overstated as it is universally considered the most important postwar set ever manufactured and the one that turned an entire generation of kids into lifelong baseball card collectors. With an overall GPA of 8.42, this particular set is more than deserving of enshrinement.

D'Orsay Bryant, III, M.D. (2011) - 1969-70 Topps Basketball
The colorful 1969-70 Topps basketball issue was not the first Topps issue to utilize the Tall Boy design as both hockey (1964) and football (1965) came before it but that format seemed most appropriate here considering it is the sport of giants. A slew of Hall of Famers can be found in this 99-card set, with Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) rookie leading the way. The set also features a great number one card of Wilt Chamberlain and a tough checklist card at the end. This particular set carries a GPA of 9.05, making the second best set ever registered in a hotly contested category.

Marshall Fogel (2011) - 1932 US Caramel
Had it not been for a very small find of these cards a few decades ago, it would be impossible to assemble a high-grade set. Even with the discovery of some quality examples, there are only so many cards to go around, resulting in only a handful of sets that grade PSA NM-MT 8 or better. Part of the reason for the scarcity is that many of cards were redeemed, as part of their offer, for baseball equipment. In hindsight, these people made some of the worst trades in sports history but who knew? From Bobby Jones to Jack Dempsey to Babe Ruth, this multi-sport set is not quite as popular as the 1933 Goudey Sport Kings but it is much tougher.

GHR Collection (2011) - 1962 Topps Football
This 176-card set is as tough as the men who suited up on the field were. In 1962, Topps decided to frame each card in fragile black borders, which caused great headaches to those trying to find NM-MT cards. The set contains numerous short prints, team cards, stars like Jim Brown and great rookies like those of Mike Ditka and Fran Tarkenton. It even starts off with a highly-desirable number one card of Johnny Unitas. Not only is this year’s inductee the finest set ever registered with PSA with an unthinkable GPA of 8.57, no set ranks even close on the Current Finest list.

Dave Lemon (PSUinCT) (2011) - 1940 Gum Inc. Lone Ranger
When collectors discuss the sets that exhibit the finest artwork used in the design, the 1940 Lone Ranger set is always mentioned. This 48-card set is considered one of the most important non-sports issues of all-time and it provides a fitting tribute to the fictional hero. The legendary masked man is shown in various scenes, depicting adventures with his trusty sidekick Tonto and his horse Silver. Through radio, television and film, The Lone Ranger has remained popular for well over half a century. This year’s inductee ranks number one on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 7.85.

Charles M. Merkel (2011) - 1952 Topps Master Baseball Set
More and more collectors are pursuing varieties within sets to ensure they reach true completion of all the different cards made in a particular series. The Master sets are certainly more difficult to complete but it is that challenge that drives many collectors in their pursuits. Here, instead of the traditional 407 cards needed for the Basic 1952 Topps set, you need 490 total cards, which includes all the Black backs and Red backs in the first series (cards 1-80). As if the Basic set wasn’t hard enough? Not only is this set complete and not only is it number one on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA 8.81, there is no set remotely close to this one in quality.

Julius Narancsik (Northern Lights) (2011) - 1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey
The 105-card, inaugural Parkhurst issue is a memorable one and a set that remains a classic for hockey collectors. The condition sensitivity and interesting design create a lot of demand, however, the overriding factor might just be the fact that the set contains over 20 Hall of Fame rookies! This is an incredible number for any set in any sport. That select group includes key rookies of Maurice Richard, Terry Sawchuk and Gordie Howe. This year’s inductee ranks number one on the All-Time Finest list with an unmatched GPA of 8.33, making it an easy selection for enshrinement.

Art Sainsbury (GoodLieu's) (2011) - 1948 Bowman Basketball
There aren't many vintage basketball sets to collect so the ones that were issued receive that much more attention with so few sets to choose from. While there are some older basketball cards in circulation, the 1948 Bowman set is considered the first key set for collectors of hoops legends. Of course, the set features the most significant basketball card of all - the George Mikan rookie - along with several other Hall of Fame rookie cards. This year's inductee ranks second on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 8.25.

Stephen Soloway M.D. (2011) - 1932 US Caramel
Had it not been for a very small find of these cards a few decades ago, it would be impossible to assemble a high-grade set. Even with the discovery of some quality examples, there are only so many cards to go around, resulting in only a handful of sets that grade PSA NM-MT 8 or better. Part of the reason for the scarcity is that many of cards were redeemed, as part of their offer, for baseball equipment. In hindsight, these people made some of the worst trades in sports history but who knew? From Bobby Jones to Jack Dempsey to Babe Ruth, this multi-sport set is not quite as popular as the 1933 Goudey Sport Kings but it is much tougher.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2011) - 1909-11 T206 Basic Baseball Set
We are coming towards the end of the 100-year anniversary of the mighty T206 set, an issue that seems to become more desirable with each passing year. It would be bordering on ludicrous to not enshrine this amazing 524-card set in 2011. With a GPA of 7.26, this is the finest complete set ever registered with PSA. That’s right, it includes all the top rarities like the Eddie Plank and Honus Wagner cards along with 74 additional cards featuring Hall of Famers, yet it retains an average grade well above PSA Near Mint 7. This is one of the most important sets ever enshrined in our 10-year history.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2011) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball
Collectors often rank this Bowman issue as one of the best-looking designs ever used for a baseball card set. The simplicity of the fronts, using terrific color photographs and a facsimile signature of each player, resulted in a classic set. During the time, most baseball card issues were utilizing artwork instead of actual photos on the cards; which is part of what sets this production apart from the rest. The set also offered a couple of popular multi-player cards and the classic Pee Wee Reese rookie. This inductee is the second best set on the All-Time Finest list with a stupendous GPA of 8.92.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2011) - The Top 200 Sportscards in the Hobby
Based on a book released nearly 10 years ago, this set contains 200 of what many people consider to be amongst the hobby’s most important sportscards. The set spans over 100 years of card production in several different sports. In 2007, after modifying the original list, Joe Orlando wrote another book that expanded the list to 250 just to torment Spence. All kidding aside, Spence is already 97.5% complete on that one and we are sure we will be acknowledging that set in the not-too-distant future but, for now, it is time to enshrine this set as the first complete one of its kind, not to mention a collection with a GPA of 8.43.

Michael Wachs (2011) - 1911 T205 Gold Border Basic Baseball Set
This 206-card amassment is not for the faint of heart as great amounts of time and money are required to reach completion here. While this set is not nearly as vast as the T206 set mentioned earlier, it more than makes up for it in difficulty. Filled with Hall of Famers from Ty Cobb to Christy Mathewson to Cy Young, those fragile gold borders make it nearly impossible to find high-grade copies. The set also features several variations. With that in mind, this is the only complete set in registry history to attain a GPA of PSA Near Mint 7 or better at 7.14, a feat that will not be easily duplicated.

Fred Walstrom (Mars Attacks 1962 Bubbles Inc.) (2011) - 1962 Topps Mars Attacks
This 55-card masterpiece captures our fascination with aliens. The fantastic, and sometimes horrific images, in the this set give us a glimpse of some people’s biggest fear - a play-by-play of what would happen if we were invaded by a hostile invader with superior technology. If it were to resemble the images found in this set, we are in for a lot of pain and suffering. The premise has been used repeatedly in books, radio, television and film, from Invasion of the Body Snatchers to War of the Worlds. The collector who assembled this set has been collecting it since he remembers opening packs in 1962. This year’s inductee ranks second on the All-Time Finest list with a GPA of 8.25 for a set, which might be, the most popular non-sports set in history.

Richard Baron Cohen (Twinight #1 Master Set) (2010) - 1959 Fleer Three Stooges Master Set
Even sportscard collectors can appreciate the importance and popularity of this non-sports issue, featuring Moe, Larry and Curly in some of their most hilarious situations. The set's first three cards are considered the most popular and the checklists within can be very tough to locate in high-grade. This 99-card set has enjoyed a great deal of fanfare in recent years and, in 2010, we simply had no choice but to recognize this particular set. Not only does this Master Set exhibit a leading GPA of 9.60, Richard owns 14 of the top 17 Basic Sets (including the top 10 in a row), all complete in PSA NM-MT 8 or better. I guess you can say that Richard likes collecting this set. It's just a guess.

Forgetaboutit!!! (2010) - 1969-70 Topps Basketball
There are only a few key vintage basketball sets in the hobby due to the limited number of releases during that period but this is certainly one of them. When Topps decided to issue Tall Boys in hockey (1964), football (1965) and basketball (1969) during the 1960s, each set became a hobby favorite within its respective sport. The set is built around the classic rookie card of Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) and several other Hall of Fame rookies. It even has a #1 card of Wilt Chamberlain. This is the finest set ever registered with PSA, boasting a phenomenal GPA of 9.12.

Craig L. Froehlich (Fro's 57's) (2010) - 1957 Topps Basic Set Football
The 1957 Topps football set is one of the most important football issues ever released. The cards combined portraits with action shots, much like 1955 Topps baseball set, which made for an appealing design. Containing key Hall of Fame rookies in Raymond Berry, Tom McDonald, Paul Hornung, Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas, this horizontally-designed set has always been in high demand. The set is plagued with print problems and centering issues, making this particular set’s GPA of 8.65 all the more impressive. At this time, it is the finest set of its kind ever registered.

Jeffrey Gitomer (2010) - 1939 Play Ball Basic Set Baseball
The Play Ball run of 1939-1941 is one that most collectors are familiar with. While the run was brief, Play Ball produced some of the hobby’s most important cards. It all began in 1939…a black and white set anchored by one of the most important rookie cards of all-time…the first card of Ted Williams, the man that many consider to be the greatest hitter of all-time. In addition to Williams and a popular card of Joe DiMaggio, there are several Hall of Famers throughout this 161-card issue. This particular set is the finest group ever registered, carrying an excellent GPA of 8.63.

Durhon Oldham (2010) - 1951 Bowman Baseball
The 1951 Bowman set has always been considered one of the most important baseball card sets ever produced. Beating Topps to the punch, Bowman created rookie cards for Whitey Ford, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle, who would all go on to dominate the headlines in New York and become baseball royalty one day. This 324-card set, which combines horizontal and vertical designs, carries a GPA of 8.47, placing it in the top five all-time on the registry in an ultra-important and highly-competitive category due to the overwhelming popularity of the issue.

palacejester (2010) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
Many hobbyists feel that this set is the premier post-war set. Topps, despite being a little late to the party, decided to combat Bowman’s early lead by issuing larger-sized cards and collectors were very receptive. The Mickey Mantle card is, arguably, the symbol of trading card collecting…even more so than the T206 Wagner…since the Mantle card was a part of the memories of collectors that fueled the hobby boom in the 1980s. The 407-card set also starts and finishes with two trading card icons – the #1 Andy Pafko and #407 Eddie Mathews rookie. This is one of only a handful of complete sets in the category to reach a GPA of PSA 8 or better (8.01).

Marty Quinn (Mighty's Graded Sets) (2010) - 1940 Gum Inc. Lone Ranger
This set, which also received an award in 2010 for Best Pre-War Vintage Non-Sports Set (Pre-1948), is in a class by itself in terms of quality and visual appeal. With a GPA of 7.56, this set is the finest of all-time on the registry. In terms of importance, due to the incredible artwork and difficulty, many collectors consider this to be one of the top five non-sports sets in the entire hobby. The number one card in the set, A Silver Bullet Stops a Hanging, is one of the most desirable condition rarities in the hobby.

The RVS Collection (2010) - 1955 Topps All-American Basic Set Football
Always popular, there are many key cards in this colorful set including Jim Thorpe, The Four Horsemen and the Don Hutson rookie. Many hobbyists remain unaware but this set was assembled, primarily, from a hoard of unopened Cello packs brought to PSA just a couple of years ago. The boxes of Cellos were pristine and not something you see everyday in this hobby. As a result, this set became the first All-American set ever to reach PSA Mint 9 status across the board and now holds an unthinkable GPA of 9.28. This is one of those sets that will almost certainly remain uncontested forever.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2010) - 1933 Goudey Baseball
Part of baseball’s Big Three, along with the 1909-11 T206 and 1952 Topps sets, the 1933 Goudey set has long been one of the hobby’s favorites. Combining exceptional color with an even more impressive lineup of names throughout the set, this 240-card set has it all. Anchored by the famous Babe Ruth quartet (card #s 53, 144, 149 and 181) and the Napoleon Lajoie rarity, this set is filled with Hall of Famers. In fact, many of them have at least two cards like Lou Gehrig and Jimmie Foxx. This particular set is only the fourth set in registry history to reach 100% completion with a GPA of 8 or better (8.06).

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2010) - 1941 Play Ball Baseball
The 1941 Play Ball set was the final production in a three-year run from Play Ball; it was also the only one of the three sets to utilize color in the design. As a result, many collectors find this issue the most attractive of the three classic sets. The year was also a memorable one in the game itself as Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams enjoyed an incredible season. DiMaggio hit safely for a record 56 games while Williams ended the year with a .406 batting average. This 72-card set is now the finest of its kind on the registry with a remarkable GPA of 8.66.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2010) - 1954 Topps Baseball
Topps continued its tradition of producing colorful trading cards with this collector-favorite in 1954. The set is known for its amazing star and rookie card selection, in addition to its eye-appealing design, making it one of the most desired sets of the era. Ted Williams is at the front and back of this 250-card set (cards #1 and #250). In between are classic rookies of Ernie Banks, Al Kaline and Hank Aaron. This particular set elevated itself into a tie for the finest set of all-time on the registry with a GPA of 8.93, making it nearly mint across the board.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2010) - 1948-1955 Bowman Mega Master Set Baseball
The 1948-1955 Bowman set run is one of major importance, one that contains so many keys including rookies of legendary players like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Stan Musial, Roy Campanella, Duke Snider, Yogi Berra and Whitey Ford. The run also includes post-war rarities like the 1954 Bowman Ted Williams. From the beautiful artwork found in the 1951 Bowman set to the wonderful photography on display in the 1953 Bowman set, the run is as diverse in style as it is attractive. You need 1,944 cards to complete this run and no run is nicer than this one.

T. Allan Bergquist (2009) - 1975 Topps Mini Baseball
While few modern-era sets deserve consideration for HOF induction, this is certainly one that does. In 1975, Topps produced one of their best sets of the decade. Filled with great rookie cards (including those of Robin Yount, George Brett, Gary Carter and Jim Rice) and specialty cards, this super colorful 660-card production is bookended by Hank Aaron. What began as a test issue, this mini-version of the regular set became popular almost overnight and still is to this day. With a leading GPA of 9.28, this fine collection of minis stands out above the rest.

Jon Isaacson (FightoldDC) (2009) - Pro Football Hall of Fame Rookie Players
Competition can be fierce within many of the categories on the registry but, over the past few years, one could argue that the competition in this category may have been the fiercest of all. This particular set has an amazing GPA of 8.89. When you consider all the great cards needed to complete this 199-card set, from the 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski to the 1958 Topps Jim Brown to the 1965 Topps Joe Namath, it makes the quality of this collection all the more impressive.

Thomas Martin (2009) - 1968 Topps Baseball Basic Set
The 1968 Topps baseball set is one of the favorites of the decade. With super important rookie cards of Johnny Bench and Nolan Ryan, this issue is filled with a tremendous star selection including some very popular combo cards. While it has never been considered overly difficult by 1960s standards, this particular set has an unthinkable GPA of 9.80. In other words, it is closer to a PSA Gem Mint 10 set than PSA Mint 9 set! Keep in mind that this set requires 598 cards.

Charles M. Merkel (2009) - 1948 Bowman Baseball
For eight consecutive years, this particular set has ruled the top of the category with an incredible GPA of 9.21. There was no question in our minds that it was time to honor this inaugural Bowman baseball issue. With the Stan Musial, Yogi Berra, Phil Rizzuto and Warren Spahn rookie cards leading the way, this 48-card set, while diminutive in size, is one of great importance amongst collectors and the one that started a great run for Bowman, lasting through 1955.

Charles M. Merkel (2009) - 1951 Bowman Baseball
Last year, we honored John Branca for his simply amazing 1951 Bowman set, a set that most thought could not be surpassed in quality. That was until this year when Charlie Merkel's complete set passed Branca's with a GPA of 8.89! With Whitey Ford, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle rookie cards included, all exclusive to the issue, you simply cannot ignore this set.

Craig and Ashton Moss (Ashton's 51 parkies) (2009) - 1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey
This particular set ranks #1 all-time in the category with a GPA of 8.13 and, to illustrate the difficulty of the issue, only four sets have ever reached a GPA of PSA NM-MT 8 or better on the registry. With a hoard of key HOF rookies like those of Maurice Richard, Doug Harvey, Terry Sawchuk and Gordie Howe, this 105-card set is one of the more challenging post-WWII sets in the entire hobby.

Dave and Lori Nicklas (The Hockey Collection) (2009) - 1964-65 Topps Hockey
Of all the Tall Boy issues released by Topps, which includes classic releases in basketball and football, this set has always been considered the toughest. Filled with Short Prints, a host of Hall of Famers and a tough high-number All Star group, these cards are very difficult to find in PSA NM-MT 8 or better. This 110-card collection boasts a remarkable GPA of 8.64, making it the finest set ever registered on the site.

Ronnie Paloger (Bombaye) (2009) - 1938 Gum Inc Horrors of War
As the non-sports portion of the registry continues to grow, the entire category deserves increased recognition. If we were to narrow the entire genre down to a handful of sets and rank them by importance, this one would certainly be in the running near the top spot. With spectacular and sometimes graphic artwork, the 1938 Horrors of War set captivates the collector and the images can certain trigger emotions. When you consider the difficulty in finding examples from this 288-card set in high-grade, it is a borderline miracle that this particular set achieved a 7.95 GPA.

Larry Robbins (L.R.) (2009) - 1957 Topps Baseball Basic Set
The 1957 Topps set has always been popular with collectors due to the simplistic design and outstanding selection of cards. It is also tough to find well-centered and without that pesky print snow in the background. The set begins with Ted Williams and ends with a great combo card of Yogi Berra and Mickey Mantle. In between, you can find great rookie cards of Don Drysdale, Bill Mazeroski, Frank Robinson, Rocky Colavito, Brooks Robinson and Jim Bunning. This particular set is the only one ever to average PSA Mint 9 or better with a 9.01 GPA.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2009) - 1912 T202 Hassan Triple Folders Baseball
When it comes to sheer beauty, there aren’t too many sets that can compete with this one. This 132-card set is a spectacular sight, with two portraits flanking the black-and-white action scenes in the center, resulting in one of the most visually appealing issues ever manufactured. It is also one of the most condition-sensitive issues since the cards were designed to be handled and folded. The set includes many of the top names of the era such as Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson and Tris Speaker, with several Hall of Famers appearing on more than one card in the set. This particular set leads all others with a GPA of 7.65.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2009) - 1934-36 Diamond Stars Master Set Baseball
Often overlooked, this Diamond Stars set is extremely tough. The excellent artwork, tough high-number series and nice star selection gives this set plenty of appeal. The set also contains a well-known error card of Hank Greenberg (Greenburg) and one of the most important #1 cards in all of collecting - Lefty Grove - a true condition rarity. With a leading GPA of 8.20, this set is the best of its kind.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2009) - 1955 Topps Baseball
There are a lot of collectors competing in this set category as the 1955 Topps set has always been one of the more popular issues of the 1950s. Filled with key rookie cards of Sandy Koufax, Harmon Killebrew and Roberto Clemente, this set is widely considered one of the most visually appealing sets ever produced by Topps. This particular set has a leading GPA of 8.81, a tremendous level of quality considering the centering and print issues associated with this legendary Topps offering.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2009) - Mickey Mantle Basic Player Set
This just might be The King of all player sets as it features, perhaps, the most collectible figure in the entire hobby. When you consider the checklist for this set and all the key cards within, the fact that Spence has been able to tally a 9.53 GPA is bordering on impossible. From his 1951 Bowman rookie to his classic 1952 Topps card to his 1969 Topps White Letter finale, this set is chock full of symbolic treasures.

West Coast (2009) - 1940 Gum Inc Superman
This set joins the 1938 Horrors of War set, from the non-sports segment, to enter the Hall of Fame in 2009. This 72-card set captures, perhaps, the most celebrated superhero of all-time – Superman. The cards, with the help of some fantastic artwork, illustrate the Man of Steel’s heroics. From rescues on the ground to rescues in the air and beneath the sea, Superman is shown saving civilians from a host of dangerous situations. This particular set boasts an all-time leading GPA of 7.67 with no one within the category close at the time of the induction.

Jim Crandell (Davalillo) (2008) - 1957-58 Topps Basketball
Vintage basketball card sets are few and far between but virtually each one of them is considered important. The 1957 Topps basketball set is certainly no exception and it may be the toughest vintage hoops issue of all. Plagued with horrible print problems and often found off-center, even the most seasoned high-end collector can be frustrated with this set. In fact, as of this date, only two sets in registry history have reached an overall rating of 8.00 or better, including this fine specimen. With so many important cards found throughout the set, like rookies of Hall of Famers Bob Cousy and Bill Russell, this 80-card set remains a staple in the hobby.

The Duke Of Mint (2008) - 1952 Topps Baseball -Basic
The 1952 Topps set remains one of the most important sets in the entire hobby and some will argue it may be the most important. From the #1 Andy Pafko to #311 Mickey Mantle to #407 Eddie Mathews, the power that resides in this set is astonishing. This 407-card issue offers so many reasons to collect it but, above all, the image captured on the 1952 Topps Mantle may be the most symbolic card in the hobby. This year’s inductee will be the fifth set in the category to be inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame and deservedly so with an overall rating of 8.03.

GHR Collection (2008) - 1952 Bowman Small Football
Early Bowman football issues contain some of the most visually appealing cards in the entire hobby. Great color coupled with classic images make for an outstanding combination, especially in this set. This 144-card set is considered by many to actually be tougher than the Large variety of the same year. Featuring significant first and last cards in the set, with Norman Van Brocklin and Jim Lansford filling each slot, this popular Bowman release is full of Hall of Famers and key rookies but the artwork remains the draw. This year’s inductee is the only set within the category to ever reach an overall rating of 8.00, setting the standard for all current and future 1952 Bowman Small collectors.

Al Glaser (SuperbowlTicketCollector) (2008) - Super Bowl Tickets - Basic
Super Bowl tickets are clearly the most popular of all ticket collecting themes. Their beauty, rarity and historical importance make them very desirable. Unlike other sports that use a series of games in order to determine the champion, in football there is only one…it’s do or die…all or nothing. It is the single most celebrated sporting event in America and, each year, this set grows by one ticket, making it an eternal work in progress. From Joe Namath’s guarantee in 1969 to Lynn Swan’s miraculous catch in 1980, the memories of the big game are abundant. This set, which currently ranks as the best in the category, was an easy choice for induction in 2008.

William Gray (2008) - 1948 Leaf Basic Set Football
In the world of football cards, it rarely gets tougher than the 1948 Leaf issue. Subject to numerous condition obstacles such as poor centering, print defects, registration and toning, this issue offers advanced collectors one of the greatest challenges in the hobby. The set also contains some extremely important cards like rookies of Sid Luckman, Doak Walker, Bobby Layne, Sammy Baugh, Leo Nomellini and Chuck Bednarik. This 98-card set has remained at the top of the category for years and we felt 2008 was a great time to induct this set, the only one of its kind to reach an overall rating of 8.00 or better at 8.06 in registry history.

Scott. D. Ireland Collection (2008) - 1915 Cracker Jack Baseball
One of the true classics in baseball card collecting, the 1915 Cracker Jack offers the total package - visual appeal, difficulty and a host of great names included. This 176-card set is riddled with Hall of Famers, from Ty Cobb to Walter Johnson to Honus Wagner but the most valuable card remains a non-Hall of Famer by the name of Shoeless Joe Jackson. There are only four complete sets known to have reached an overall set rating of 8.00 or better. This one ranks second all-time with an amazing rating of 8.41 and it only trails number one by a whisker.

Scott D. Ireland Collection (2008) - 1934 Goudey Baseball
The 96-card 1934 Goudey set is often overlooked compared to Goudey's 239-card 1933 offering. That being said, the set is one of the most important issues in the hobby and there was simply no way we could ignore this particular set. It is hard enough to dominate a set registry category when it is a less popular issue or one that contains relatively affordable cards but this set is simply incredible. With an overall set rating of 8.89, there is no set in the category remotely close in quality to this specimen. From the #1 Jimmie Foxx card to the two classic Lou Gehrig poses (#s 37 and 61), all the cards in the set are represented in top form, defying their age in almost every respect.

Don Louchios (2008) - 1932 US Caramel Misc Sports
The 1932 US Caramel set has always been considered one of the more interesting issues in the hobby, featuring various athletes from the worlds of baseball, boxing and golf. In fact, the Bobby Jones #3 card is one of the golf legend’s most valuable productions. The set, one that has always been considered one of the more condition sensitive productions in the hobby, also contains important cards of Ty Cobb, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth. The Rogers Hornsby #11 card remains one of the toughest holes to fill for the set builder, with high-grade examples rarely offered. With an amazing rating of 8.47, it is easy to see why as it is easily the finest group known.

Don Louchios (2008) - 1933 Goudey Sport Kings
Along with the 1932 US Caramel set, this hobby classic is one that prides itself on diversity except, in this case, the diversity is even greater. From baseball to billiards, from swimming to dog sledding, virtually every sport imaginable is covered in this wonderful set. In addition, the cards can exhibit great eye-appeal when found in top grade due to their design and use of color. Ty Cobb, Babe Didrickson, Bobby Jones, Babe Ruth, Jim Thorpe and a slew of other sports icons fill the set. This is the second set within the category to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. With an overall rating of 8.49, it is surely one of the finest in the hobby.

Benjamin Martello (The Hammer Collection) (2008) - 1965 Topps Football
Topps Tall Boys of the 1960s have always been popular, no matter the sport. While the 1964 Topps hockey issue is considered tougher overall and the 1969 Topps basketball issue may have more recognizable names throughout, the 1965 Topps football set might be the most popular of the three. It certainly contains the most popular Tall Boy creation of all-time in the Joe Namath rookie, a card that symbolizes card collecting. This 176-card set is filled with short prints and each card within boasts tremendous color, adding to the set's appeal. These cards are also difficult to find well centered due to their narrow borders. This year’s inductee is the finest set known in the category with an overall rating of 8.35 and the third one of its kind to be inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame.

Charles M. Merkel (2008) - 1953 Topps Baseball
One year after they changed card collecting forever with their 1952 release, Topps produced another classic for the ages. The 1953 Topps set is not only incredibly popular in its own right, but also extremely tough as each card is partially framed by either fragile black or red bottom borders. Leading off with #1 Jackie Robinson and containing two classics in Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays, finding top shelf examples can be quite difficult for the high-end collector. After one set dominated the category for over 6 consecutive years on the registry, this year's inductee vaulted into the All-Time Finest position with an overall set rating of 8.68.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2008) - 1951 Bowman Baseball
After three years of solid card production, Bowman’s fourth offering was a massive hit. Above everything else, this set contains the only three recognized rookie cards of Whitey Ford, Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays, making it a must for so many collectors. The colorful artwork, which started with their 1950 release, became Bowman’s signature during the early-to-mid 1950s and it attracted a ton of collectors. This year’s inductee has propelled itself into the number one slot, featuring an overall set rating of 8.99 and the set is anchored by the only PSA Gem Mint 10 Mantle rookie in the hobby.

Virgil Adkins PSA 10 Set #2 (2007) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball
Here, we decided to induct two top sets into the PSA Set Registry HOF. They join two others (Virgil Adkins' first set is one of the two who have already reached the ultimate destination in years past with GPAs of PSA Gem Mint 10. That's right, these inductees cannot get any better - literally. This set is the most important issue of the modern sportscard era and, truthfully, there's nothing close to a rival. Centered on the classic Michael Jordan rookie card, this color-border issue is full of HOF rookies that dominated the hardwood throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

John Branca (2007) - 1954 Topps Baseball
It's hard to imagine a set getting any better than this with an astonishing GPA of 8.83 and this category has been very competitive since the inception of the Registry. Arguably the most visually appealing Topps issue of the 1950s, this set is a true classic. With Ted Williams providing the bookend to the set with cards #1 and #250, the Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks and Al Kaline rookie cards anchor it for good measure.

Ben Friedman (Planet Super Bowl) (2007) - Super Bowl Basic Set Ticket
This is the first ticket set to ever be inducted into the PSA Set Registry HOF and we couldn't think of a better collection to break the ice. It is no secret that Super Bowl tickets are probably the most popular of all ticket themes due to the ability to complete the set, despite legitimate challenges, and the incredible eye-appeal featured on each design. Unlike the other three major sports, there's only one game for the glory in football and there is no better way to celebrate the big game and all the great memories from it than with a run of game tickets. With an 11.41 Set Rating, this is the best of the best in Registry history.

Scott D. Ireland Collection (2007) - 1933 DeLong Baseball
Averaging above PSA NM-MT 8 across the board, this often overlooked set is starting to emerge from obscurity. To illustrate its difficulty, this is the very first complete set to reach an average of PSA NM-MT 8 or better in PSA Set Registry history. Anchored by a major card featuring Lou Gehrig, this beautiful collection receives our ultimate award in 2007.

Scott D. Ireland Collection (2007) - 1933 Goudey Baseball
Much like the 1915 Cracker Jack set honored earlier, this particular set ranks 2nd best all-time in a classic category with a GPA of 8.24. From its beautiful design to incredible selection of stars, including the Babe Ruth quartet (card #'s 53, 144, 149 and 181) and the #106 Napoleon Lajoie rarity, it was time to give this member of The Big Three the ultimate honor.

David Kjeer (Short Print Nightmare) (2007) - 1952 Bowman Large Football
This is, arguably, the most important football issue ever produced along with the likes of the 1935 National Chicle and 1957 Topps set. With 144 colorful cards created in a large format, this eye-appealing staple set is as challenging as it is attractive. With a ton of Short Prints, condition sensitivity and two terribly difficult first and last cards in #1 Norm Van Brocklin and #144 Jim Lansford, it is a wonder how this set could have reached a 7.89 GPA.

Don Louchios (2007) - 1915 Cracker Jack Baseball
With a GPA of nearly 8.2, ranking second all-time in the category, this set deserves to be inducted in 2007. Always regarded as one of the hobby's premier issues, it combines awesome background color, extreme difficulty with an array of Hall of Famers including keys of Shoeless Joe Jackson and Ty Cobb.

Don Louchios (2007) - 1938 Goudey Baseball
This has been one of the more overlooked sets in the pre-war era, especially during the past few years when most other pre-war issues have skyrocketed. While this may be true, the set is of major importance by any measure. This ultra-tough 48-card issue is almost impossible in PSA NM-MT 8 or better as one of only two sets in Registry history to achieve that goal with a GPA of 8.06.

Charles M. Merkel (2007) - 1952 Bowman Baseball
Plain and simple, this 252-card set is almost too good to be true. With a GPA of 8.95, this colorful vintage classic is almost Mint across the board. This particular set has also been underappreciated over the years. When you consider the appearance of second year cards for both Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays, in addition to the super tough #1 card in Yogi Berra, this Bowman production is one of the hobby's most important issues and Merkel's set is the finest in existence.

Phil Minard (2007) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
As one of The Big Three in baseball cards, anyone who can assemble this set in PSA NM-MT 8 or better condition has really done something. When you add in the size of the set (407 cards) and the degree of competition in the category, inducting this set was a no-brainer. Starting with the ultra-tough #1 card in Andy Pafko and ending with a super rookie card in #407 Eddie Mathews, the set will always be centered on the great #311 Mickey Mantle.

Larry Robbins (L.R.) (2007) - 1958 Topps Basic Set Baseball
When it comes to difficultly of 1950s regular issue sets, you can go on and on about this one. With all kinds of condition obstacles in the way for high-grade collectors such as horrific print defects and centering issues, it is with complete amazement that we introduce this set - one that boasts a GPA of 8.74! This is, without a doubt, the finest 1958 Topps set in the hobby and we would guess it will be for a very long time.

Butch Thibault (Network 8687 PSA 10 Collection) (2007) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball
Here, we decided to induct two top sets into the PSA Set Registry HOF. They join two others who have already reached the ultimate destination in years past with GPAs of PSA Gem Mint 10. That's right, these inductees cannot get any better - literally. This set is the most important issue of the modern sportscard era and, truthfully, there's nothing close to a rival. Centered on the classic Michael Jordan rookie card, this color-border issue is full of HOF rookies that dominated the hardwood throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Don Louchios (2006) - 1941 Play Ball Baseball
Of the three major Play Ball issues that were released, the 1941 issue is generally considered the most popular. As the only release of the three to exhibit color, the previously seen black and white photos were transformed into eye-appealing beauties in 1941. Classic cards of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams drive the set's popularity, along with the Pee Wee Reese rookie card and assorted star cards featuring the likes of Jimmie Foxx, Hank Greenberg and Mel Ott. This HOF set is 100% complete with a GPA of 8.52. With border toning and centering as major condition obstacles, it's hard to imagine anyone putting together a set this nice.

Don Louchios (2006) - 1948-49 Leaf Basic Set Baseball
This set ranks as one of the toughest in the post-war era and it contains a plethora of hobby staples. The Satchel Paige Short Print remains the key with terrific cards of Bob Feller (SP), Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Stan Musial (R), Ted Williams and Jackie Robinson (R) to boot. In addition, the set is riddled with numerous Short Prints and some of the worst condition obstacles a collector could encounter. Don's complete set has a stupendous GPA of 8.18, making this the best group in the hobby.

Tom Malito (Teemu) (2006) - 1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey
This classic hockey issue is one that only a single set registrant has been able to assemble with a GPA of PSA NM-MT 8 or better. With 100% completion and a GPA of 8.09, this HOF set stands alone. With key rookie cards at its core, including Maurice Richard, Terry Sawchuk and Gordie Howe, this 105-card set symbolizes the beginning of a new era in hockey history. As true condition rarities, these little gems are hot commodities. With very poor centering and bleeding issues present, this accomplishment is put into proper perspective.

Charles M. Merkel (2006) - 1932 US Caramel Misc Sports
This multi-sport classic has haunted collectors forever. The challenge is truly daunting for the high-grade collector due to the extremely limited amount of quality examples known. This is one of those issues where, if the cards are fresh in appearance, the eye-appeal is outstanding but examples like that are rarely found. Most of them appear almost dirty in appearance with advanced wear. Major keys of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, Rogers Hornsby and golfing legend Bobby Jones are here. This set, is one of only two to reach 100% completion with a GPA of PSA NM-MT 8 or better with a 8.17 rating.

Greg Pietsch (Pproperties) (2006) - 1935 National Chicle Football
As one of the key football card sets, this issue's importance cannot be underestimated. This is only the second set on the Registry to reach 100% completion with a GPA of PSA NM-MT 8 or better at 8.08. When you consider the difficulty of these cards, it's easy to see why only two sets have reached that plateau. With only 36 cards in the set, the challenge is deceiving. Anchored by the most significant football card in the hobby, #34 Bronko Nagurski, every card in the set is tough and the high-numbers are virtually impossible to find in high-grade.

Michael Rakosi (This Test Scored an A) (2006) - 1968-69 Topps Test Basketball
In the world of basketball cards, there are very few vintage sets. Of the small amount that do exist, most are considered hobby classics. Of all the classic vintage basketball sets, perhaps none of them can match the difficulty of this tough test issue from Topps. Just finding these cards is difficult and, when you do, you are usually confronted with serious centering issues. Of the 22 cards in the set, more than half are Hall of Famers. Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Jerry West, Oscar Robertson and John Havlicek are just a few of the legends that reside here. This HOF set is 100% complete, an accomplishment in itself, and it carries a 7.72 GPA.

Carl Riegger (2006) - 1962 Topps Civil War News
As one of two non-sports sets to be inducted into the HOF in 2006, the 1962 Topps Civil War News set is certainly deserving of special recognition. Historically, this set has been one of the most popular choices for card collectors. Evidence of that can be seen in the strong competition on the Registry, with several high-grade complete sets in the running. This particular set remains the only one to reach and exceed a GPA of PSA Mint 9 or better at 9.22 and it is, of course, 100% complete.

Brian Roberts (66brian) (2006) - 1966-67 Topps Hockey
This year's winner for vintage hockey set of the year (1948-1971) becomes a dual winner in 2006, entering the HOF as well. This super-important hockey issue is one that offers a great challenge for the high-grade collector with those pesky brown borders surrounding each card. Despite recent troubles in the sport, collectors have not ignored its history and evidence of that is clear with price records set at auction for both hockey trading cards and memorabilia in 2006. With the classic Bobby Orr rookie card as the focal point, this HOF set is 100% complete with a GPA of 7.999.

West Coast (2006) - 1962 Topps Mars Attacks
The non-sports segment of the Registry continues to grow and this year we decided to place two tremendous non-sports sets into the HOF. This 55-card classic captures our fascination with aliens and the images give us a glimpse of what some think it might be like. By the looks of it, we don't stand a chance! With beautiful yet graphic artwork, this set has remained one of the keys in the fantasy world of trading cards. This complete set, with a GPA of 8.31, stands above several top notch sets on the Registry as the best of the best.

John Branca (2005) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball
Many hobbyists feel that this issue is one of the most visually appealing card productions of all-time. The simple, yet striking, photographs provide insight into the era. This HOF set is now the finest complete 1953 Bowman set ever assembled, with a GPA of 8.83. No frills, no foil, no special coating, just the images of America's pastime.

Jim Crandell (Davalillo) (2005) - 1952 Bowman Small Football
When it comes to vintage football cards, this set is usually overshadowed by its big brother - the 1952 Bowman Large set. Over the past few years, collectors have learned to appreciate the little brother more and more. In fact, most hobbyists believe that this set is actually tougher than the Bowman Large issue. This HOF set is 96.53% complete with a GPA of 7.98 and no one on the current finest list is remotely close.

Marshall Fogel (2005) - 1933 Goudey Baseball
One of The Big Three, the 1933 Goudeys have long been a collector favorite. Home of the most popular Babe Ruth cards on the planet, all four of them, this set is also home for a multitude of Hall of Famers. Coupled with its beautiful design, this issue is always in high demand. This HOF set is 99.58% complete and holds a GPA of 8.01.

Scott D. Ireland Collection (2005) - 1933 Goudey Sport Kings
This complete set, much like the 1965 Topps Football set inducted in 2005, has surpassed the initial 1933 Goudey Sport Kings inductee in terms of quality. With an unthinkable GPA of 8.60, this set has a formidable lead over sets assembled by some of the hobby's most prominent collectors. Capturing top athletes from a variety of sports, from Babe Ruth to Babe Didrickson, this set enjoys tremendous demand.

Dave Lemon (2005) - 1965 Topps Football
After inducting the first PSA NM-MT 8 or better complete set into the Hall of Fame last year, we couldn't ignore this one. With a GPA of 8.28, this HOF set has actually surpassed its predecessor in quality. Anchored by the Joe Namath SP rookie card and tougher than most collectors would think, this set only has two PSA NM-MT 8 or better representatives to date as the competition heats up.

Don Louchios (2005) - 1909-11 T206 White Border Baseball
This set is simply amazing and it is, without question, the best T206 set known to date and improving each year. With a GPA of 8.16 and 94.66% completion, The Monster has been tamed. Hobbyists know how hot this issue has been in recent times, making this accomplishment all the more impressive.

Michael Rakosi (More Stars Than in the Heavens) (2005) - 1961-62 Fleer Basketball
As one of only a handful of vintage basketball sets, the 1961-62 Fleer basketball set has always been considered a classic. The ultra-bright design helps compliment the inclusion of so many key rookie cards like those of Elgin Baylor, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain. This complete HOF set is the best of the best. With a GPA of 9.29, this set leaps into The Hall uncontested.

Chris Raney (Threeputts) (2005) - 1954-55 Topps Hockey
There are few sets, not just hockey sets, that can compare visually and historically to this great issue. Showcasing one of the most beautiful designs of any card production and led by Gordie Howe's most popular card, this award-winning complete set will also be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005 after posting an astonishing GPA of 8.42.

Donald E. Spence - The Lone Star Collection (2005) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
The last of The Big Three is honored here, a set that is 100% complete with a GPA of 8.19. This set has always been considered the king of all post-war issues, containing so many key cards. Andy Pafko, a notoriously difficult number one card, and the Eddie Mathews rookie bookend the set with the most popular Mickey Mantle card ever made lying in between.

707 Sportscards LTD - Levi Bleam (2004) - 1965 Topps Football
The Topps Tall Boys have long been a favorite card style with collectors. These cards exhibit gorgeous colors and provide inherent difficulty because preserving these tiny "giants" of the hobby is a tough chore. This 176-card football issue carries with it a hoard of short prints, a super-challenging checklist (#176) and a nice selection of stars, including the legendary Joe Namath rookie card - a card that just might be the most recognizable football card in the hobby. Currently, this is the only complete set on the Registry to reach PSA NM-MT 8 quality across the board (a GPA of 8.00 exactly), which is a noteworthy accomplishment. Congratulations Levi and crew!

John Branca (2004) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
Starting with a condition rarity and ending with another in Pafko (#1) and Mathews (#407), this set is widely recognized as the most important set in the post-war era and it's easy to see why. Still, to this day, the 1952 Topps baseball set is one that has few comparable issues in terms of pure eye-appeal. The large format and great colors helped Topps succeed with their first major issue. More than anything, this set is symbolic. It symbolizes a time long past. It symbolizes a time that evokes so much emotion for so many collectors. It symbolizes collecting in general, led by an individual specimen that may be the most recognizable card ever made - #311 - Mickey Mantle. Both Marshall Fogel's and John Branca's sets, with respective GPA's of 8.26 and 8.25, deserved induction in 2004.

John Branca (2004) - 1954 Wilson Franks Baseball
This is another case where you simply cannot imagine there ever being another set that will eclipse the quality of the current leader. The 1954 Wilson Franks are clearly one of the toughest post-war sets in the hobby. Packed with hot dogs, these colorful cards were subject to a host of condition problems. In fact, these cards were often produced off-center straight from the factory due to the super small borders. In addition, this set includes great stars like Roy Campanella, Bob Feller and Ted Williams - one of the hobby's top rarities in high-grade. John's complete set has a GPA of 8.20. The next best set in the category is considered high-grade for the issue and that set averages about PSA EX 5 to EX-MT 6 across the board. Need we say more?

John Branca (2004) - Ted Williams Basic Player Set
Ted Williams is a favorite of so many collectors. He was a hero on the field and a hero off the field. Teddy Ballgame defended our country and, in the process, he lost about 5 full years of his prime. Nevertheless, he is still considered the greatest hitter who ever lived by most. From a hobby perspective, it is very fitting that Williams is featured on so many legendary cards. Virtually all of his cards are considered must-haves like the 1941 Play Ball, 1954 Bowman and 1954 Topps #1 and #250 cards. In fact, Williams had more cards selected for The Top 200 Sportscards in the Hobby than any other player, including Mickey Mantle. Oh, by the way, how appropriate that #9 is represented by all PSA Mint 9's here. Wow!

Marshall Fogel (2004) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
Starting with a condition rarity and ending with another in Pafko (#1) and Mathews (#407), this set is widely recognized as the most important set in the post-war era and it's easy to see why. Still, to this day, the 1952 Topps baseball set is one that has few comparable issues in terms of pure eye-appeal. The large format and great colors helped Topps succeed with their first major issue. More than anything, this set is symbolic. It symbolizes a time long past. It symbolizes a time that evokes so much emotion for so many collectors. It symbolizes collecting in general, led by an individual specimen that may be the most recognizable card ever made - #311 - Mickey Mantle. Both Marshall Fogel's and John Branca's sets, with respective GPA's of 8.26 and 8.25, deserved induction in 2004.

Theodore Kotsiakos (2004) - 1964-65 Topps Hockey
Last year, we awarded Theodore for his great set with Best Vintage Hockey Set during the year of the Tall Boy. This year, we felt it was time to honor his hard work by inducting his set into the Hall of Fame. Many collectors know about the great Tall Boy issues of the 1960's and 1970's but some may not know that the hockey issue is considered by many to be the toughest of all the Topps Tall Boy productions since these hockey cards were generally not distributed in nearly the same quantities as baseball or football. Theodore's set has a GPA of 8.12, which is clearly deserving of top recognition. The set is a classic and, considering the difficulty, the induction decision was easy to make.

Don Louchios (2004) -1910-11 Sporting Life (M116) Basic Set Baseball
This is the first of two sets from our 2004 Collector of the Year that reached Hall of Fame status this year. This set, much like Wendell's T205 collection, was recognized last year during the 2003 awards. It received the honor of Best Pre-War Baseball Set of 2003. The set is full of Hall of Famers and home to two major rarities in McConnell (Chicago) and McQuillan (Cincinnati). There are very few sets that one could say will never be matched. If you talk to any hobby expert about this set, that is exactly what they will tell you. Consider this: Don's set rating is 9.19 (100% complete with a GPA of 7.97). The very next best set has a set rating of 2.86. That about says it all.

Don Louchios (2004) - 1933 Goudey Baseball
As one of The Big Three, the 1933 Goudey set deserves its share of attention. Charlie Merkel, who owns the finest current set on the Registry, had his set inducted in 2003. Don's set is right behind Charlie's with a GPA of 8.14. To complete this set in PSA NM-MT 8 or better condition is a major accomplishment and deserving of Hall of Fame recognition. From the ultra-tough #1 card, Benny Bengough, to the difficult low numbers to the classic Ruth quartet or the legendary pre-war rarity in Napoleon Lajoie, this set has it all. In addition, this set boasts a tremendous amount of Hall of Famers including the likes of Jimmie Foxx, Mel Ott, Rogers Hornsby and Lou Gehrig among a slew of others. Don is at it again!

Michael Rakosi (Mona Lisa's Smile) (2004) - 1957-58 Topps Basketball
Michael Rakosi's focus on some of the top vintage basketball sets is well-known in hobby circles. This year, after having his fine 1948 Bowman Basketball set inducted into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame in 2003, Michael's 1957-58 Basketball set will follow its lead. As one of the toughest sets to complete in PSA NM-MT 8 or better condition, this issue has haunted collectors for decades. Print snow, centering and border toning are just a few condition obstacles this set endures. The 80-card set is also filled with so many major keys such as rookie cards of Bob Cousy and Bill Russell - the Russell being one of the true classics in the hobby. There are also a host of Short Prints and the first and last cards, Clifton and Schnittker, are virtually impossible in high-grade. Michael's complete set has a GPA of 8.15, making it the very first set on the Registry to reach PSA NM-MT quality across the board.

Robert Levine (Ruby) (2004) - 1956 Topps Basic Set Baseball
In 2004, this set was recognized as the Set of the Year. Always popular, this 342-card set contains a spectacular array of key star cards including those of Ted Williams, second year examples of Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente and the ever-popular Mickey Mantle card from his one and only Triple Crown season. As you might imagine, the competition is fierce in this category with several high-grade complete sets in the running. That being said, there's only one set that is 100% complete with a GPA above PSA Mint 9 at 9.017 - this one.

Wendell W. Smith (2004) - 1911 T205 Gold Border Baseball
Wendell Smith received the award for Best New Set in 2003 - the Rookie of the Year - and, truthfully, it was just a matter of time before this set was going to make the full leap into the PSA Set Registry Hall of Fame - the pinnacle of Registry recognition. This set, a set that Wendell continues to upgrade when possible, is 100% complete with a GPA of 7.32. When you consider how tough those pesky gold borders are, this set represents amazing quality for the issue. Cobb, Speaker, Mathewson, Johnson, Young and a host of other Hall of Famers are here - now in a new Hall of Fame.

Virgil Adkins (2003) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball
In the modern era of card collecting, there are only a handful of sets that collectors consider worthy as all-time classics. Maybe, over time, that small group will increase to include more and more sets, but for now, there is really only one modern set that virtually ALL collectors consider a classic - the 1986-87 Fleer Basketball set. Filled with HOF rookie cards and the rookie card of, arguably, the best player the game has ever seen in Michael Jordan, then add those pesky colored borders and you have a winner. Complete the entire set in PSA Gem Mint 10 and you leave us no choice but to recognize both Virgil Adkins and D'Orsay Bryant who have accomplished that goal. As the first two collectors to register perfection, you both deserve induction.

D'Orsay Bryant III, M.D. (2003) - 1986-87 Fleer Basketball
In the modern era of card collecting, there are only a handful of sets that collectors consider worthy as all-time classics. Maybe, over time, that small group will increase to include more and more sets, but for now, there is really only one modern set that virtually ALL collectors consider a classic - the 1986-87 Fleer Basketball set. Filled with HOF rookie cards and the rookie card of, arguably, the best player the game has ever seen in Michael Jordan, then add those pesky colored borders and you have a winner. Complete the entire set in PSA Gem Mint 10 and you leave us no choice but to recognize both Virgil Adkins and D'Orsay Bryant who have accomplished that goal. As the first two collectors to register perfection, you both deserve induction.

Marshall Fogel (2003) - Mickey Mantle Basic Player Set
Marshall Fogel, after our first two years awarding PSA set collectors, is used to being first at a lot of things. After being our inaugural winner for the 2002 Best Overall Collection of the Year and inducted as the first PSA Hall of Fame Collector in 2003, he earns the distinction as the first collector to have a Player Set inducted into the HOF. The GPA of the set has actually increased to 9.31 from 9.25 a year ago. The set features both the 1952 and 1953 Topps Mantles in PSA Gem Mint 10s. With Fogel and Mantle together on this one, need we say more?

Andrew Kaplan (2003) - 1953 Bowman Color Baseball
This is the first of two sets that Mr. Kaplan was recognized for this year and both are truly exceptional. The 1953 Bowman Color set is beloved by collectors for its simple design - just beautiful color photos without any disturbances. The competition on the Registry is proof that this is a collector favorite, with several high-quality sets in the running each and every year. This set, however, is clearly the best with an 8.68 GPA amongst a slew of powerful foes in the PSA NM-MT 8 range.

Andrew Kaplan (2003) - 1933 Goudey Sport Kings Misc Sports
This set was recognized last year as it won for Best Miscellaneous Sportscard Set. As most collectors know, in terms of importance, this set has few peers. Covering an assortment of sports and with a beautiful design, the 1933 Goudey Sport Kings are very desirable including the two most famous "Babes" in sports history - Ruth and Didrickson. Mr. Kaplan's set has a great GPA of 8.32 and keep in mind that this set category has very, very strong competition from a few of our hobby's heavyweights.

Don Louchios (2003) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
We do not need to explain to anyone how important this set is. Last year, Charlie Merkel's great set was inducted but this year, it was time to recognize a second collector in this highly competitive category. Mr. Louchios, with a GPA of 8.36, is second on the list within, perhaps, the most significant group of collectors in the Registry. Just like in the Baseball Hall of Fame, you need to recognize greatness more than once in a particular category when one deserves it. If Ted Williams and Joe DiMaggio can both make the HOF as outfielders than Merkel and Louchios can make it as 1952 Topps Baseball collectors.

Charles M. Merkel (2003) - 1933 Goudey Baseball
Charlie Merkel was recognized in a few different areas this year and one more of his sets has been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Last year, Merkel's 1952 Topps and 1915 Cracker Jack sets were both inducted for their unbelievable quality. This year, Merkel's outstanding 1933 Goudey set makes it a threesome for this standout collector. In fact, Merkel is the first collector to have three sets inducted into the HOF and these three sets are all major keys, with the 1952 Topps and 1933 Goudey making up two of the big three in the hobby (the other being the T206 set). With a GPA of 8.22 and the very first to reach 100% completion, this set had to be inducted.

Michael Rakosi (Heifetz) (2003) - 1948 Bowman Basketball
There is some solid competition on this set but one clearly stands out from the others with an unthinkable GPA of 8.54 - it is this one. The only other set with 100% completion has a GPA of 8.04, which is excellent. The fact that Mr. Rakosi is a full half-grade higher (.50) than that great set just tells us how exceptional his set really is. The 1948 Bowman Basketball set is certainly one of the most significant sets in the hobby and this one is the finest example. Big center George Mikan stands even taller here - great job!

Ron Rittlinger (2003) - 1968 Topps Basic Set Baseball
There are tougher sets on the Registry; there's no question about it but there comes a point in the balloting when you simply cannot ignore an extraordinary accomplishment. This is the perfect case. Last year, Mr. Rittlinger won for Best Vintage Baseball Set of the Year (1960-1971) with unbelievable quality and a GPA of 9.18. This year, he raised it to 9.30! This set is better than PSA Mint 9 across the board - case closed. Even Nolan Ryan himself would be proud.

Wes Verno (2003) - 1955 Topps All-American Basic Set Football
Last year, this tremendous set won for Best Rookie Set of the Year with a GPA of 8.85. This year, it went up to 8.95! That's right, a set that is almost uniformly PSA Mint 9s across the board. When you consider how hot these cards have been for about two years now and how old the set is, the accomplishment is tremendous. This is a set that we think we can safely say will not be surpassed anytime soon and, maybe, ever.

John Branca (2002) - 1951 Bowman Baseball
There was heavy, heavy competition on this set and in this category. From the 1948 Leafs to the 1953 Bowmans to the various Topps sets from the 1950s, there's a lot to choose from. The 1951 Bowman set is filled with huge stars like Mantle and Mays rookie cards and tough commons, but one set is unquestionably better than the others - John Branca's. In fact, if we gave the stars more weight, his lead would be even more impressive. All of the big keys are in PSA Mint 9 - wow!

Anthony Fioto (2002) - 1953 Topps Baseball Set
This was the only set that did not win an individual category in 2002, but it was so close to winning Vintage Set (1948-1959) and Set of the Year that we had to recognize Anthony's hard work. If you ever have the pleasure of meeting or talking with Anthony about collecting, you will truly understand what the Registry is all about. No one has more passion about set collecting then Mr. Fioto does and no one on this planet has a better 1953 Topps set. This one has a GPA of 8.51 - wow!

Don Louchios (2002) - 1935 National Chicle Football
This set, much like Charlie Merkel's 1915 Cracker Jack set, has a reputation of its own. Most of you know how tough this set is; a set that includes tough cards like ones featuring Bronko Nagurski and Knute Rockne (both PSA NM-MT 8's). That being said, consider this - the only other complete set on the Registry has a GPA of 3.00 while Don's set has a GPA of 8.35! This set is one of the most dominating major sets on the list.

Charles M. Merkel (2002) - 1915 Cracker Jack Baseball
In advanced set collecting, this particular set has a reputation - a reputation for incredible quality. At the time of the voting, Charlie's set was the only complete set to exhibit a GPA over 7.00 and it was nearly 8.5! There were other close contenders like Don Louchios' amazing 1941 Play Ball set and Marshall Fogel's dominant 1938 Goudey set. Hey, even Charlie's 1933 Goudey set was a major contender, but in the end we felt that this set deserved the award.

Charles M. Merkel (2002) - 1952 Topps Basic Set Baseball
This set is one of the Big Three (along with the T206 and 1933 Goudey sets) and no post-war set is more desirable. The fact that Charlie's set is able to stand out amongst the heavy competition is truly astonishing. In fact, if you look at the numbers, it isn't even close. Choosing a winner in this category was extra difficult, but when you consider the degree of competition, popularity, and significance of this set along with Charlie's dominance, the winner is clear.

T-206 King (2002) - 1909-11 T206 Baseball
Known as The Monster, the T206 set is rarely attempted in any grade but no set in hobby history was ever as nice as this one. This wonderful set has, unfortunately, been broken up as it was sold a couple of years ago at auction. Of course, record prices followed. This set, a set that was only missing a few cards, was the very first set to be pedigreed by PSA as part of the Harris Collection. The one common characteristic that all the cards had was quality (the vast majority in NM-MT condition or better), but more specifically, eye-appeal. Whenever possible, this collector took his time hand selecting examples that exhibited tremendous eye-appeal. Today, pieces of this incredible amassment are in the hands of collectors across the globe.