BaseballRookieKey Card
2004 Topps Yadier Molina #297
AI confidence: high
Rookie status
This is considered Yadier Molina's official Topps rookie card. Molina appeared in his first MLB game in 2004 with the St. Louis Cardinals, and this card was issued in the flagship 2004 Topps set as part of the drafted/rookies subset.
Why this card matters
This is the key mainstream rookie card for Yadier Molina, one of the greatest catchers in MLB history and an 9-time Gold Glove winner. Molina is a Hall of Fame-caliber player and his rookie cards have appreciated significantly in value over the years. This flagship Topps RC is among his most widely collected rookie cards.
Parallels & Print Runs
Gold
2004 print run, serially numbered to /2004
Gold bordered parallel, one of the more sought-after versions
Black
Numbered to /53
Short print parallel with low population
Platinum
1/1
One-of-one printing plate or platinum parallel, extremely rare
Notable Variants
- ◆ Base version #297
- ◆ Gold parallel numbered /2004
- ◆ Black parallel numbered /53
- ◆ Autograph versions exist in Topps Traded and other 2004 Topps products
Population Context
The base 2004 Topps Molina RC is commonly submitted to PSA and BGS. PSA 10 copies exist in moderate numbers but centering issues keep PSA 10 populations lower than expected for a flagship Topps card. PSA 9s are the most common high-grade result. Raw copies are widely available.
Collector Notes
Centering is the primary concern on this card, as 2004 Topps flagship cards are known for off-center print runs. Collectors should carefully inspect left-to-right and top-to-bottom centering before submitting. Corner wear and surface scratches are also common issues. The card number is #297. This is a foundational Molina rookie card and a staple of Cardinals player collections.
PSA Population Report
Population data not yet available for this card.
Price trend
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AI-generated information based on training data. Population data and values are estimates — verify with PSA, BGS, or recent eBay sold listings before making financial decisions.