Topps, a renowned name in the realm of sports cards, has taken a significant step towards celebrating the rich history of the Negro Leagues by partnering with artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson. This groundbreaking collaboration has resulted in the launch of the inaugural Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a venture that Johnson holds dear as one of his proudest achievements.
The series was inaugurated with the prestigious unveiling of a Satchel Paige card in Kansas City, marking the commencement of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative. As a build-up to the much-anticipated Rickwood Classic, a new card will be revealed every week, leading up to a special MLB game at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This game, along with the card series, serves as a tribute to the oldest professional ballpark in the United States and the former home of the Birmingham Black Barons. To amplify the significance of this historical commemoration, towering 24-foot replicas of each card will be exhibited at various MLB ballparks across the nation.
The Artist behind the Artistry: Micah Johnson, transitioning from a career in professional baseball to a renowned artist, has a poignant mission of inspiring and empowering through his art. For the Topps series, Johnson has meticulously crafted hand-drawn portraits of legendary Negro Leagues players, skillfully blending artistic excellence with a deep-rooted reverence for history.
Collectible Delights: Apart from the base cards featuring the iconic players, collectors will have the thrilling opportunity to discover limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These exclusive parallels come in various borders, such as Silver (/99), Blue (/49), Purple (/25), Red (/10), Orange (/5), and Gold (/1), adding an element of rarity and allure to the already cherished collector’s items. These distinctive features intensify the excitement for collectors, making each card a prized possession in their collection.
This exceptional card series not only reveres the illustrious history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues but also presents fans and collectors with a captivating chance to own a slice of art that encapsulates the essence of these baseball icons. With a promise of new releases every Thursday leading up to June 20, devoted enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting each unveiling, eagerly embracing the significance and historical value embedded in this momentous series.
