Topps, a renowned name in the baseball card industry, has joined forces with artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson to introduce a groundbreaking series paying homage to the Negro Leagues. This pioneering collaboration marks the inception of the Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a project that holds immense significance for Johnson, who considers it one of his most proud accomplishments. The series made its grand entrance with the introduction of a card featuring the legendary Satchel Paige in Kansas City, as part of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative.
In the build-up to the much-anticipated Rickwood Classic, a fresh card will be unveiled each week, leading up to a special MLB event at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This event, along with the card series, stands as a tribute to the oldest professional ballpark in the United States and the former home of the Birmingham Black Barons. As a further ode to this historic occasion, towering 24-foot replicas of each card will be showcased at various MLB ballparks across the nation.
Micah Johnson, the artist behind this remarkable series, has seamlessly transitioned from his professional baseball career to a distinguished artist with a mission to inspire and empower through his art. Johnson’s intricate, hand-drawn portraits of legendary Negro Leagues players reflect a blend of artistic finesse and historical reverence, capturing the essence and significance of these iconic figures.
Beyond the base cards, collectors will have the opportunity to discover limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run, offering a tiered rarity system that includes Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and Gold Border (/1). These distinct parallels add an element of exclusivity and allure to these coveted collector’s items, heightening the excitement for collectors seeking to acquire these gems.
This card series not only commemorates the rich history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues but also presents fans and collectors with a unique chance to own a piece of art that encapsulates the essence of these celebrated baseball icons. With fresh releases scheduled every Thursday leading up to June 20, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting each installment of this historic and culturally significant series, which marks a milestone in the world of baseball collectibles.
