Inventory In-Depth: Best of the Worst

Here at DeansCards.com, we thoroughly enjoy cards that have been "well loved". Sometimes, the Poor and Fair cards can have more character and uniqueness than their Near Mint counterparts. Here are some of our favorite cards in Poor and Fair condition.

This 1910 E96 Philadelphia Caramel #19 Rube Marquard card is a great example of a caramel card that has barely survived the 100+ years since it was printed. As previously mentioned in our E-cards blog, these cards were handled primarily by children, since they were placed in packages of caramels. The simple design of this card is very characteristic of E-cards, which are usually either a figure or portrait against a solid color background.

One of our favorite Poor-condition cards from the 1950's just recently sold. The #66A Ted Williams from the 1954 Bowman set can be very difficult to find since Bowman was forced to stop printing his card due to contract issues shortly after the first series was released. They replaced Williams with Jimmy Piersall, who would end up with two cards in the 1954 Bowman set. The card was most likely graded "Poor" because of the paper loss on the front, but this was definitely a great deal for anyone interested in buying a rare card at a low price.

The 1955 Topps All-American Four Horseman is one of the most famous football cards ever made, and we actually have one right now in Fair condition. It grades Fair because one of the sides is severely damaged. The card was short-printed by Topps and was has been in high demand since 1955.

A Fair or Poor condition card can be a great way to buy a rare or expensive card for a bargain. Although DeansCards.com grades only Pre-War and star cards in Fair or Poor, there are also sets and starter sets that grade "Poor" and are a great way to start a collection. Click here for our Poor condition starter sets.