[skelly]

Eagles 33 was able to contribute pictures and some excellent comments in the previous thread. I felt that this topic needed a thread of its own, and I encourage people to comment or add anything they feel they would like.

Pele Cards in 1958.
What I Like...

Although they are not actual "cards," but rather thin pieces of paper, I feel that both the Titulares and Quigol are excellent collectables. They are part of larger sets that carry I believe to be about 150 different players ( my number could be wrong ) These cards are rare and display well in my opinion.

I also really like the Alifabolaget and the Edizione V.A.V. Figurine Calicio issues. The Alifabolaget is somewhat easy to find compared to other early issues. Mid Grade examples usually sell for between $300-$500. The "V.A.V." rookie is interesting. It was issues in a large set that features about 300 different cards. All cards feature players from the Italian league clubs, but V.A.V. issues what I believe to be seven total cards ( two brazil players on each one ) as they won the 58 world cup. Some people believe that this is really more of a 1959 issue. Unlike the Alifabolaget Rookie, the V.A.V. is very hard to find in good condition. Not sure who the other player is that is pictured on the Pele card, but if anyone knows and could share that would be great.

What I don't like...
Swedish Rekord.- Very common compared to his other issues, and It's not really a card.
Editora Aquarela- Very few people ( including myself before Eagles33 posted ) even knew about the reprinting in the 70's. Personally, I'm avoiding this issue.

Other issues-
Panini- these are your mainstream collectables, but I don't see the value, as they are very common in Europe. I think if Pele stuff really took off, the constant supply of these would create a lag in value.

1962 Naninna- Not an easy issue to find. Made in Italy. The side pose is not impossible. He has a front portrait in this set as well that is very, very hard to find.

1961 E.D.I. Milano- A beautiful card that I should have bought when I had the chance. I have only seen it twice in the past 7-8 years. Card is roughly the size of a 1964 Topps Giant Baseball Card. One of his few cards that has writing on the back.

1962 Stella.- Part of a great set. The one that is listed on ebay for $2400 is certainly on the high side, but make no mistake, this is one of his best looking early cards!

1966 A&BC World Cup Stamps- Part of a 50 "stamp" set issued by A&BC GUM in Britain. These cards are IMPOSSIBLE to find, and although they are basically stickers, they look really cool. Check out Nigel's Football Card page to see the players in the set. Really a great rare set.

Lastly, I would avoid the 1962 Tie Cup Stars Card ( I believe this is the name of the issue that has Pele along with two other players on it.) A very, very common issue.