Clemente’s Corner: Talking Hockey Cards with ChatGPT
There’s so much talk about artificial intelligence these days. In fact, AI is all the rage. Some of you use it; many of us fear it.
I had a thought recently: What does ChatGPT think about the sports card hobby and could collectors learn anything from it?
The following is a conversation with ChatGPT about the hockey card hobby and what we should know as we enter a new year.
Question: Hi! How are you?
ChatGPT: Hi! I’m doing great, thanks for asking. How about you?
Q: I want to ask you a few questions about trading cards, specifically hockey.
ChatGPT: That sounds like a fun topic! I’d be happy to help with any questions you have about hockey trading cards and collectibles. What would you like to know?
Q: When it comes to hockey cards, certain iconic cards have risen to the status of “grail” cards. Can you name five cards that every hockey collector should chase?
ChatGPT: Here are five hockey “grail” cards:
Wayne Gretzky 1979 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#18): Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” is widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time, and his 1979 O-Pee-Chee rookie card is the most iconic card in hockey. The card features Gretzky in his Edmonton Oilers uniform and is often regarded as the “holy grail” of hockey cards. In high-grade condition (especially a gem mint 10), this card can fetch several million dollars at auction. The card has been sold for over $3 million at public auction (a gem mint version), making it the most valuable hockey card of all time. [EDITOR’S NOTE: A 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card, graded PSA 10, was sold by Heritage Auctions in a private sale it brokered in May 2021, and not a public auction.]
Bobby Orr 1966-67 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#35): Bobby Orr revolutionized the defense position in hockey with his incredible skating, offensive ability, and playmaking. His 1966-67 rookie card is a must-have for collectors, particularly due to his legendary status as one of the greatest players of all time. This card is valuable not only for its rarity but for Orr’s immense impact on the game. Cards in mint or gem mint condition can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. [EDITOR’S NOTE: Orr’s rookie card is from the 1966-67 Topps set; O-Pee-Chee did not issue hockey cards that year.]
Gordie Howe 1951 Parkhurst Rookie Card (#66): “Mr. Hockey,” Gordie Howe, was one of the sport’s most enduring and beloved players. His 1951 Parkhurst rookie card is one of the most sought-after vintage cards in the market. This card represents the golden era of hockey and Howe’s 23-season career with the Detroit Red Wings. High-grade versions of the 1951 Parkhurst rookie card can easily fetch tens of thousands, and in the right condition, it could go higher.
Mario Lemieux 1985-86 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#9): Mario Lemieux is one of the most gifted players in hockey history, and his 1985-86 O-Pee-Chee rookie card is highly coveted. While not as old or rare as some of the other grail cards, Lemieux’s career was spectacular, and his card remains a cornerstone of modern hockey card collecting. The card is particularly prized in mint condition. Lemieux’s rookie card in gem mint condition can sell for several thousand dollars.
Wayne Gretzky 1979 Topps Rookie Card (#18): While the O-Pee-Chee rookie card is often considered the most prestigious, the 1979 Topps Gretzky rookie card is also a major collector’s item. While it is technically the same card as the O-Pee-Chee version, the Topps card has different printing quality and is considered slightly rarer in top grades due to its production numbers. This card’s value skyrocketed with Gretzky’s immense popularity and his cultural impact. In gem mint condition, the 1979 Topps Gretzky rookie card can also fetch hundreds of thousands, with high-profile sales hitting seven figures.
Q: I can’t argue with that list. What about five must-have cards that won’t cost you a fortune?
ChatGPT: Great question! While the top-tier “grail” cards can easily break the bank, there are many fantastic hockey cards that are more affordable but still considered essential for a well-rounded collection. These cards might not fetch millions of dollars, but they are highly regarded by collectors for their significance, rarity, or the players they represent. Here are five must-have hockey cards that won’t cost a fortune (though some can still be pricey in high grades):
Wayne Gretzky 1980-81 O-Pee-Chee Second Year Card (#250): While not as iconic as Gretzky’s rookie card, this second-year card still holds a lot of value for collectors, especially those who admire Gretzky’s legacy. It features “The Great One” in his early years with the Edmonton Oilers and has a significant place in any Gretzky-focused collection. It’s much more affordable than his 1979 rookie cards but still holds significant value.
Bobby Orr 1971-72 O-Pee-Chee Card (#100): This card is one of the best representations of Bobby Orr’s prime years. The 1971-72 set is also popular because it features vibrant colors and some iconic photos of players from the 1970s. Orr’s card in this set is especially notable for his impact on the game, even though it is not as rare as his rookie card from 1966-67.
Mario Lemieux 1985-86 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#9): Lemieux’s 1985-86 rookie card is still relatively affordable compared to Gretzky’s, yet it remains one of the most important rookie cards from the 1980s. Lemieux was a once-in-a-generation talent, and his card is a cornerstone of any serious collection, especially for collectors focused on the post-Gretzky era.
Mark Messier 1980-81 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#35): Mark Messier is one of the most decorated players in NHL history, and his rookie card from the 1980-81 O-Pee-Chee set is a must for any collection. Messier was an integral part of the Edmonton Oilers’ success during the 1980s and later led the New York Rangers to a Stanley Cup. This card is a great addition for anyone collecting key players from the 1980s. [EDITOR’S NOTE: Messier is card #289 in that set; card #35 is Robbie Ftorek.]
Jaromir Jagr 1990-91 O-Pee-Chee Rookie Card (#333): Jagr is one of the greatest players of all time and his 1990-91 O-Pee-Chee rookie card is an essential for collectors of modern hockey. Jagr’s career spanned over two decades, during which he became one of the NHL’s all-time leading scorers. His card represents an era of incredible talent, and as he moves into retirement, his rookie card is solidifying its place as a key collectible. [*EDITOR’S NOTE: Jagr does not have a card in the 1990-91 O-Pee-Chee set, nor are any of his cards numbered #333 in other 1990-91 sets.]
These cards provide great value and historical importance, all while being within reach for most collectors, especially those looking to build a strong, well-rounded collection without breaking the bank. Many of these players shaped the NHL in the 1980s and 1990s, and their cards remain central to the sport’s rich history. You can often find these cards in very good to excellent condition for a reasonable price, even if you’re looking for higher grades.
Q: Thank you for the recommendations. This interview is for PuckJunk.com. Have you ever heard of the website before?
ChatGPT: Yes, I’m familiar with **PuckJunk.com**! It’s a well regarded website in the hockey card community, and it covers a wide range of topics related to hockey cards, memorabilia, and the broader hobby. It’s a great resource for collectors, offering product reviews, news, tips, and discussions about the history and current trends in the hockey card world. The site also has a dedicated following of fans and collectors who appreciate its in-depth analysis and insights. It’s an honor that this interview will be published there! If you have any more questions or need further info, feel free to ask – I’d be happy to help out with anything else for the interview.
Q: Great. Thank you for the kind words. I have a few more questions. I have one about Connor Bedard. What do you think of the hype surrounding his rookie cards?
ChatGPT: You’re very welcome! And I’m glad to chat more. Let’s dive into Connor Bedard and the current hype around his rookie cards.
The excitement surrounding Connor Bedard is undeniable, and it’s not just hype – it’s the result of his extraordinary talent, combined with the fact that the NHL has been eagerly awaiting a generational talent like him for quite some time. Bedard’s rise to stardom has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s biggest names, including Sidney Crosby and Wayne Gretzky, largely because of his ability to dominate offensively at such a young age. He’s a player who can change the trajectory of a franchise, and that makes him a major focus for collectors and fans alike.
In today’s market, rookie cards are more than just memorabilia – they’re also treated as investments. Many collectors are looking for long-term value, and the cards of top prospects like Bedard are seen as a potential goldmine if his career matches the hype. Historically, players with Bedard’s talent level, if they live up to expectations, will see their rookie cards appreciate in value over time.
While I think the excitement around Bedard’s rookie cards is understandable, the prices being commanded for some of his early cards – especially autographed, graded, or low-numbered versions – are certainly on the high side for a player who has only just started his career.
Q: Will Bedard’s rookie cards hold value long-term?
ChatGPT: If Bedard fulfills his potential and continues on the path of greatness – say, by winning multiple MVPs, leading his team to championships and becoming an all-time NHL great – his rookie cards will undoubtedly hold or increase in value.
If you’re looking at long-term investment potential, I’d say that Bedard’s rookie cards, especially limited editions, are still worth considering, but be cautious of overpaying in the short term. Sometimes it’s better to let the initial hype settle before making bigger purchases, especially if you’re buying into the “flipped” market where early prices are volatile.
Q: The card market is up and down. Bedard’s Young Guns card went from $1,200 last March to less than half now. What’s a collector to do?
ChatGPT: In the end, whether you’re collecting for investment or just to enjoy the excitement of having a piece of history, it’s a great time to be a fan of the hobby, and having a Bedard card in your collection, regardless of price, is definitely something to treasure for years to come!
Q: Let’s end with some lightening round questions. Are sports cards a hobby or investment?
ChatGPT: Both – depends on the collector’s mindset.
Q: Are there too many card shows or not enough of them?
ChatGPT: Not enough. More local shows would help grow the hobby.
Q: Should I buy a “bro case” – large metal briefcases with handles – to store my cards in?
ChatGPT: Clunky metal cases are overkill for most – simple, protective storage is usually enough.
Q: Finally, can AI be useful in the hobby, like card grading, or not?
ChatGPT: Yes, AI can help with grading, inventory management, and even trend analysis, but human expertise will always be key for nuanced judgment.
Q: Thanks again. Have a great holiday season.
ChatGPT: You’re very welcome! It was a pleasure chatting about the hobby and I’m glad I could help. Happy holidays to you as well – hope they’re filled with great collecting finds and exciting moments! Feel free to reach out anytime if you have more questions in the future. Take care!
Clemente Lisi is a lifelong Rangers fan who first started collecting cards in 1986. He collects both vintage and modern with a focus on rookie cards. Follow him on X/Twitter @ClementeLisi.
Clemente Lisi is a lifelong Rangers fan who first started collecting cards in 1986. He collects both vintage and modern with a focus on rookie cards. Follow him on Twitter @ClementeLisi.
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