1972 Topps Test Candy Lids Johnny Bench PSA NM-MT 8 - Highest Graded!

Sold For:

$1,680

Year:

1972

Auction:

2019 Spring

Lot #:

1555

Category:

Postwar Baseball - 1970s to Present Cards

Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA (submitted by REA). Presented is an exceptional ultra-high-grade example of Cincinnati Reds Hall of Famer Johnny Bench from the extremely rare 1972 Topps Candy Lids test issue. This is one of only two examples graded at this level with none higher! The offered example is part of the top-ranked complete set on the PSA Set Registry, which boasts an impressive 6.89 overall GPA. This is the first time REA has ever had the privilege of offering any examples from this very desirable test issues. Topps produced two candy lid issues in the 1970s - one in 1970 and the other in 1973 - both of which were designed as toppers to Baseball Stars bubble gum. In between these two issues, Topps designed another lid series that never made it out of the test stage and remains quite scarce to this day. Proofs from this issue exist in square form as well as the final 1-7/8" version offered here. The top of the lid features product information while the bottom features a brilliant color portrait of the offered player along with his name, team, and position underneath. The quality control of this test issue was less than perfect, and many of the known examples are found miscut, with a tiny sliver of the player name box or product information line found hanging off the edge of the lid. The offered example is bright and clean, with vibrant colors and a flawless surface. This is an ideal sample for any Hall of Fame, player, or advanced Topps collection! Reserve $300. Estimate (open).