There are roughly 8 of the Reggie Jackson 1977 Topps Oriole uniform cards known to exist. Topps uncovered the proof from the Topps Vault and auctioned it off. The original press release from 2004 went as follows:
“The Topps Vault ( www.thetoppsvault.com), which features unique and rare Topps items such as uncut sheets, works in progress, proof cards and original art, is pleased to announce that it has made an historic “hobby find”.
Topps has uncovered the “Proof” of the 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson Baltimore Orioles baseball card.
After Jackson signed with the New York Yankees for the 1977 season, Topps quickly changed the photo to picture him in pinstripes and his Orioles card, which was originally slated for release, was sent to the shredders. Later, a couple of the Orioles card surfaced and they soon became hobby legend. Today, this infamous card is considered one of the most sought after cards in existence because of its rarity and because of Reggie’s greatness on the diamond.
The 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson Orioles “Proof” baseball card is currently up for auction on TheToppsVault.com. The auction will close in 5 days.”
It’s replacement was a headshot of Jackson, wearing an A’s batting helmet that was airbrushed to look like a Yankees logo on the helmet.
