Periodically we experience problems with our scanner. Today is one of those days. The photo side of many cards shows dark waves or occasionally cross hatching marks, sometimes with yellow striping. Rest assured, these are not on the cards.

For the Baseball Hobbyist . . .


All-Time Greats Type 4 "strip card" ~ 2-3/8" by 3-3/4" size | NOT postcard size*
Robert Moses "Lefty" Grove, Boston Red Sox & longtime Hall of Fame member (HOF)
Issued circa 1975 by The Card Memorabilia Associates, Limited (TCMA)
 
In 1974-1975 TCMA issued four (4**) sets of All-Time Greats cards styled after their popular postcard series (1973-80) but in smaller, 2-3/8" by 3-3/4" format. This is a single from the BLUE and white styled set. The back is in black ink and there are  cutting lines present. Accordingly, we have designated it as Type 3. (For a more detailed explanation of the four types, see Four Types Defined below.)

*These TCMA strip cards, at first blush, are confused with TCMA's postcard size All-Time Greats issued 1973-1980. The strip cards are much scarcer than the postcards.

 

For Variation Collectors

 

Some of these smaller All-Time Greats cards were issued in strip card form. That is, TCMA produced uncut strips of 6 cards for retail store sellers. Cutting lines (dots) were printed on some of the cards to guide collectors in separating the cards, if desired. This particular card does not have cutting lines/dots and, therefore, it was probably not issued in that fashion. Still, for easier identification we have designated all four types as "strip" cards.


**Four Types Defined

 

TCMA actually issued four different styles of these smaller All-Time Greats cards (aka "strip cards"):

  • Type 1 - Black & White front with blank back and no cutting lines, issued in 1974
  • Type 2 - DARK Blue & White front with Red ink on the back and no cutting lines, likely issued in 1975
  • Type 3 - MEDIUM Blue & White front with Black ink back and with cutting lines, issued in 1975
  • Type 4 - LIGHT Blue & White front with Black ink back and with cutting lines, issued in 1975 due to the presence of Averill, Harris, Kiner (1975 HOF inductees)

For actual examples of the four types, see the third and four scans. These are shown for informational purposes only and are not for sale in this offer. While our knowledge of TCMA issues is far from complete, we believe only Type 3 and possibly Type 4 cards were actually issued in strips (of 6). Type 1's and 3's were definitely issued in 1974 and 1975, respectively. We have owned cards of each type with the copyright date still affixed. 


Collecting Tip: Due to its non-standard card size, collectors may find this card fits best in 8-pocket sheets. It will also fit standard top-loading 9-pocket sheets but with approximately 1/4" unprotected.


Shipping options are available - YOUR CHOICE of either eBay standard envelope service (which is cheaper and slower) or USPS Ground Advantage (more costly for single cards but much faster delivery). We also offer UNLIMITED singles shipped via Ground Advantage for the one card rate. (See ANY NUMBER below.) Both services include insurance but USPS Ground Advantage is considerably quicker and with fewer limitations.

Condition: Very Good/Excellent (hand cut) - check the high resolution scans; this is the actual card the buyer will receive.

ANY NUMBER of single cards (up to and including 8X10 inches in size) will ship for the one single card USPS Ground Advantage cost IF the buyer will request and wait for a combined invoice before paying. eBay Standard Envelope is also an option for qualifying orders. Questions? Email us._______________________

Important: Shipping Information

A goal has always been to keep shipping costs low. Our primary objective is to sell cards and other things of interest to baseball hobbyists - not make money by overcharging on shipping. If you ever believe you are being overcharged on shipping, please email us and we will double-check the facts of the matter. Thank you!

  • We will ship worldwide: For U.S. customers (on most items) we combine multiple items purchased so you pay only the shipping on the heaviest item - all other items ship free of charge. (An exception would be if an item must be sent via media/book rate.) In order to receive this combined item/one-fee service, PLEASE wait for or request a combined invoice. Otherwise fees accrue which we cannot eliminate.
  • Citizens of all Other Countries: Before buying, please email us first for the exact cost.
  • We pack your order carefully - sandwiching cards between cardboard and utilizing boxes, bubble wrap, etc., as necessary - to ensure your items arrive in the condition you expect.
  • Items are shipped the next business day. We ship 5 - usually 6 - days each week.
  • Payment should be made within 7 days after initial purchase on invoice. A-105

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