1955 Topps Roberto Clemente

Card & Playing Highlights

The 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente is one of the most beloved and culturally significant rookie cards ever produced. It introduces a player whose legacy extends far beyond statistics, a symbol of excellence, dignity, and humanitarian impact. Clemente’s rookie appears in one of Topps’ most visually striking designs, perfectly framing the youthful Pirates outfielder at the very start of his Hall of Fame journey.

The 1955 Topps set broke new ground by shifting to a horizontal layout that featured both a portrait and an in-action image on the same card. Clemente’s card (#164) stands out with its vivid yellow and red color scheme and crisp typography, a true reflection of the mid-1950s design renaissance. Like other high-number cards from the series, it is notoriously difficult to find well-centered and in high grade, adding to its long-standing allure among collectors.

Clemente’s rookie season offered early flashes of greatness,  his powerful arm, quick bat, and fearless defense quickly made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. Over the next 18 seasons, he would record 3,000 hits, win four batting titles, earn 12 Gold Gloves, and help lead the Pirates to two World Series championships.

The 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente remains one of the hobby’s true icons, representing not only baseball brilliance but also the enduring spirit of a player who transcended the game itself.

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Rarity Data

Graded copies: XXX

Highest known grade: 10 (GEM MINT)

Premium grades: ~XXX copies (X%) are graded at or above a 6.5 (EX-MT+)