The 1969 Topps set is complete! Mickey Mantle arrived today as the final card!

1969 Topps Decal

Pete Rose was a prolific signer. I think, despite his misgivings, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. In the last 20 to 30 years, he signed almost anything people wanted him to sign, and would write almost any inscription as well. I would really like an 1964 Topps card of his autographed but the 1969 set, aesthetically, is my favorite card from the 1960s. This one is in very good condition and it has a bright, clean and bold autograph in blue sharpie. The perfect addition to my collection, and not very expensive.

Yeah, I know—it’s beat to hell.

But this Reggie Jackson rookie card has been with me since 1969, when I pulled it from a wax pack as a wide-eyed kid. It’s bent, faded, and seen better days… kinda like me.

Still, it’s stuck with me through just about every chapter of life—moves, milestones, setbacks, and second chances. It’s not worth much on paper, but in spirit? Priceless.

Funny how certain things—seemingly small, even trivial—become quiet companions on the journey. They remind us who we were, how far we’ve come, and what we still carry. Sometimes, it’s not just the big moments that get us through—it’s the little ones we’ve held onto all along.

What are your thoughts? Does this resonate with you?

Arrived today, along with the Phil Regan card. Only one card to go to finish the '69 set. A pesky guy named Mantle 😂