Non-sports card collecting has a rich history that spans several decades. Unlike sports cards, which primarily focus on athletes and athletic achievements, non-sports cards encompass a wide range of topics, including popular culture, entertainment, history, and more. Let's delve into the origins of non-sports card collecting and explore some of the more famous card sets throughout the years.
The Origins
The roots of non-sports card collecting can be traced back to the late 19th century when tobacco companies started inserting trading cards into their product packaging as a means of promoting their brands. These early cards often featured various subjects, such as flags, animals, and notable people. One of the most famous early non-sports card sets was the Allen & Ginter "World's Champions" set, issued in 1887, which depicted prominent athletes and other notable figures.
Early 20th Century
In the early 20th century, non-sports cards gained popularity and expanded beyond tobacco cards. Companies like American Caramel and the Philadelphia-based Fleischmann Company produced sets featuring themes like historical events, famous personalities, and cultural topics. Notable sets from this era include the T51 Murad "College Series" (1910), T205 "Historical Events" (1911), and T218 "Champions" (1911).
the golden age of card collecting
The 1930s to 1950s marked the golden age of non-sports card collecting. During this period, companies like Goudey, Bowman, and Topps began producing sets that covered a broad range of subjects. Some of the most iconic non-sports card sets emerged during this time. The following are some of the most well known and valued collections.
1933 Goudey Indian Gum Cards
This set depicted Native American culture, with colorful illustrations of tribes, famous chiefs, and traditional rituals.
1938 Horrors of War Cards
Considered one of the most controversial sets, this collection depicted graphic images from World War II, including scenes of battle, destruction, and human suffering.
1950 Topps "Bring 'Em Back Alive" Cards
Inspired by the popular adventurer Frank Buck, this set showcased exotic animals and thrilling encounters in the wild.
Pop Culture and Entertainment Boom Cards
In the 1960s and 1970s, non-sports card collecting experienced a significant shift towards pop culture and entertainment-related themes. Topps, in particular, dominated the market during this era with numerous groundbreaking sets, including:
1962 Mars Attacks! Cards
This set depicted a fictional Martian invasion with vivid and often gruesome scenes. It gained both popularity and notoriety due to its graphic imagery.
1977 Star Wars Cards
Released in conjunction with the original film's release, this set became a phenomenon, capturing the imaginations of millions with its character profiles, scenes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
1985 Garbage Pail Kids Cards
A satirical take on the Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, this set featured grotesque and humorous characters with clever wordplay names.
The Modern Era
In recent decades, non-sports card collecting has continued to evolve and diversify. Sets have explored a wide array of themes, including comic book superheroes, trading card games, television shows, movies, and more. Some notable modern-era sets include Marvel's various trading card releases, Pokémon cards, and various entertainment-related sets produced by companies like Upper Deck, Cryptozoic Entertainment, and Rittenhouse Archives.
Non-sports card collecting has become a beloved hobby for many enthusiasts who appreciate the art, history, and cultural significance captured within these cards. Whether collecting vintage sets or acquiring the latest releases, non-sports cards offer a unique window into our shared popular culture and provide a tangible connection to the past.