The 1955 Topps Corky Valentine #44 is a must-have card for any serious baseball card collector. This card, graded 3 by the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), is a true gem from the early days of Topps' baseball card production. Corky Valentine, born Charles Arthur Valentine, was a Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who played for the Milwaukee Braves in 1954 and 1955. He was known for his distinctive pitching style and unique delivery, earning him the nickname "Rocky Cork." Valentine's career was short-lived, but his impact on the game and this particular card remain relevant to this day. Let's take a closer look at the 1955 Topps Corky Valentine #44 and why it is such a sought-after collectible. Design and Production The 1955 Topps baseball card set was designed with a modern and sleek look compared to previous years. These cards feature a horizontal layout, with a beautiful pastel color scheme and a clean design. A player's name, team, and position are displayed prominently at the bottom, with the team's logo in one corner and the player's portrait in the other. Corky Valentine's card is no exception, with a large headshot of the pitcher wearing his Braves uniform in the center. The pastel blue background complements the navy blue and red of his uniform, making for a visually appealing card. Scarcity and Value While Topps produced nearly 206 different cards in the 1955 set, the Corky Valentine card is not as common as some of the other players. This rarity, combined with the fact that many of these cards were likely thrown away by children at the time, contributes to its value today. In terms of value, the PSA grading of 3 for this card means it is in Good condition. While this is not the highest grade possible, it is still a respectable grade for a card that is over 65 years old. This particular card has sold for upwards of $80 in recent auctions, as collectors are eager to add this unique card to their collection. Corky Valentine's Legacy Despite his short MLB career, Corky Valentine has left a lasting legacy for baseball card collectors. While he may not have been a household name during his playing days, his card has become highly sought after by collectors looking to add a piece of baseball history to their collection. In addition to his popularity among collectors, Valentine's impact on the game was also notable. He was a key member of the 1954 Milwaukee Braves team that won the National League pennant and represented the team in the World Series. Although they ultimately fell to the Cleveland Indians in the Series, Valentine's contribution to the team was crucial. In Conclusion The 1955 Topps Corky Valentine #44 card is a centerpiece for any collection. Its rarity, attractive design, and Valentine's role in baseball history make it a highly sought-after card for collectors. Whether you are a baseball fan, a history buff, or a die-hard collector, the 1955 Topps Corky Valentine #44 card is a must-have addition to your collection.