Topps has joined forces with the talented artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson to introduce an extraordinary collection of baseball cards paying tribute to the legendary Negro Leagues. This groundbreaking partnership has given birth to the groundbreaking Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a project that holds a special place in Johnson’s heart. The series was inaugurated with the revelation of a remarkable Satchel Paige card in Kansas City, marking the commencement of the “Road to Rickwood” endeavor.
Leading up to the much-anticipated Rickwood Classic, a fresh card will be unveiled weekly, leading to a special MLB game at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This game, along with the card series, serves as a homage to the oldest professional ballpark in the U.S. and the former residence of the renowned Birmingham Black Barons. To amplify the commemoration of this momentous occasion, towering 24-foot replicas of each card will be showcased at various MLB ballparks across the nation.
Meet the Artist: Micah Johnson has smoothly transitioned from his professional baseball career to a renowned artist with a mission to inspire and uplift. His artwork for the Topps series showcases intricately hand-drawn portraits of iconic Negro Leagues players, seamlessly blending artistic skill with historical reverence.
Collectible Highlights: Beyond the base cards, avid collectors will have the chance to discover limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each release, amplifying the thrill of collecting. These exclusive parallels include:
– Silver Border (/99)
– Blue Border (/49)
– Purple Border (/25)
– Red Border (/10)
– Orange Border (/5)
– Gold Border (/1)
With these distinctive parallels adding rarity and allure to the already sought-after collector’s items, the chase for these cards becomes even more exciting for enthusiasts.
This unique card series not only celebrates the illustrious history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues but also grants fans and collectors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of art encapsulating the essence of these baseball icons. With a new card set to be released every Thursday leading up to June 20, enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of each addition to this historic and artful series.