Nolan Ryan is one of the most iconic and dominant pitchers in the history of baseball. Throughout his 27-year career, he amassed 5,714 strikeouts, the most by any pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. He is also known for his blazing fastball, which was recorded to have reached speeds of up to 100.9 mph. Ryan's popularity and achievements on the field have translated into some of the most sought-after baseball cards among collectors. One of these highly coveted cards is the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan #240. Released by Topps in 1981, this card features a close-up shot of Ryan wearing his Houston Astros uniform. He is shown throwing his signature pitch with a determined look on his face. The background of the card is a vibrant orange and yellow gradient, which makes Ryan stand out even more. What makes this card even more valuable among collectors is its high rating from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). This card, graded a 7 by PSA, is considered to be in excellent condition, with sharp corners, centered borders, and minimal surface wear. This rating puts it in the "near mint" category, which is highly coveted by collectors. But why is the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan card so sought after? There are a few reasons that contribute to its popularity and value. First and foremost, this card was released during a time when the popularity of baseball cards was on the rise. It is part of the fourth series in the 1981 Topps set, which was produced in large quantities. However, as the years went by, many of these cards were lost or damaged, making high-grade copies like the graded 7 by PSA, scarce and valuable. Secondly, this card showcases Ryan during his prime years. In 1981, he was 34 years old and was already an established star in the league. He had just completed an impressive season with a 1.69 earned run average (ERA) and 180 strikeouts in only 25 games. As a result, this card is highly sought after by both Ryan fans and general collectors. Additionally, the design and overall aesthetic of the card have also contributed to its value. The 1981 Topps set is known for its bright colors and minimalist design, making it visually appealing to collectors. This, combined with the image of Ryan in action, makes this card a standout in any collection. As with most collectibles, the value of the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan #240 card has only gone up over the years. In recent auctions, this card has sold for thousands of dollars, with its highest recorded sale at $10,599 in 2019. As the years go by, it is expected that the value of this card will only continue to increase. In conclusion, the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan #240 card is a must-have for any serious collector. Its high-grade rating, iconic design, and representation of one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history make it a highly sought-after piece. Whether you are a fan of Nolan Ryan, a collector of baseball cards, or simply appreciate the value of a rare and valuable card, the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan #240 is a must-have addition to any collection.