Ok bear with me.
A couple of years ago I thought Topps was going to revert back to the 1952 Design for Topps Heritage instead of continuing through the 1970s. (i.e 2022 would have the 1952 design to match)
However what they did was add a new product line.
In the middle of 2022 Topps introduced 2021 Topps Chrome Platinum Anniversary (1952 design) - These cards debuted in 2022 using the players who had rookie cards in 2021. (i.e. Jo Adell, Jazz Chisholm)
In the middle of 2023 Topps introduced 2022 Topps Chrome Platinum Anniversary (1953 design) - These card debuted in 2023 using the players who had rookie cards in 2022 (i.e. Bobby Witt, Jose Rodriguez but no Michael Harris though he debuted in late May 2022 and became a 2023 rookie card).
If things hold - this will be the future
In the middle of 2024 Topps will introduce 2023 Topps Chrome Platinum Anniversary (1954 design) - These cards will debut in 2024 using the players who had rookie cards in 2023 (Gunner Henderson, Michael Harris) - (It is pretty obvious now that Elly De La Cruz will not get a 2023 rookie card)
So wa lah.......
In the middle of 2025 Topps will introduce 2024 Topps Chrome Platinum Anniversary (1955 Design) . These cards will debut in 2025 using the players who had rookie cards in 2024 (Mr. Elly De La Cruz).
Yes, Topps has created a New Concept. For years collectors always sought a players first rookie card. Now Topps has created a players last rookie that can be easily pinpointed and defined.
In the middle of 2025 - The most sought after card will be Elly De La Cruz's 2024 Topps Chrome Platinum Anniversary rookie card - A defining concept - His last rookie card
That's a really interesting way of looking at it. I don't know whether they're specifically looking to say "last rookie card", but I suppose having a new product with rookie cards of last year's rookies has some value for them. Of course, that raises the question of whether it's really a rookie card based on the stated date rather than the actual release date. And I think the answer is that it shouldn't be, but it's too much hassle and confusion to keep the distinction.
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