PSA Personalized T206 Cards at the National
PSA-graded T206 Honus Wagner cards are highly sought-after collectibles, not only in the sports world but also globally. Recently sold for a staggering $3.25 million, this card sets the benchmark for the entire trading card industry and is revered as the ultimate treasure.
When PSA, the renowned card grader, approached us with the idea of recreating the Honus Wagner card for a promotional event, we eagerly seized the opportunity. This allowed attendees and fans to obtain their very own keepsake in the same distinctive format.
If you’ve ever come across a high-value card for sale, you may have noticed its thick card protector and the assigned grade by a company. The grade is determined based on factors such as centering, wear and tear, and the condition of the corners. A score of 10/10 is considered “Gem Mint.” PSA is the company responsible for providing these scores to the industry.
The original Honus Wagner card belongs to a series known as T206, which was included in packs of American Tobacco Company cigarettes. Wagner’s objection to being associated with cigarette promotions led to the card being withdrawn from production, contributing to its rarity. The unique size format of the card was influenced by the shape of cigarette packs. While modern trading cards measure 2.5″ x 3.5″, the T206 cards were 1 7/16″ by 2 5/8″. Our goal was to ensure the final card replicated the exact dimensions of the original.
Furthermore, we aimed to maintain the authentic appearance of a turn-of-the-century card, encompassing desaturated skin tones, soft features, and a subtle halftone pattern to evoke the vintage feel.
At the 2019 National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC), guests had the opportunity to choose from a variety of pre-set templates that made it appear as if they were wearing the original jerseys from the set. After capturing a photo of them gazing thoughtfully into the distance, we applied our custom effects, and within a minute or so, they received their own personalized T206 trading card enclosed in a custom PSA card protector, often referred to as being “slabbed” in the industry.
Creating custom PSA T206 Honus Wagner cards was one of the most unique final products we have ever produced for a client. We are always thrilled when a brand seeks to push the boundaries of what can be achieved within the trading card format. It is safe to say that an on-site production of this nature has never been seen before, and we are grateful to PSA for entrusting us with making it a reality.
Please feel free to reach out if you would like us to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake for guests at your upcoming event.
