This advertisement, from the February 1980 issue of The Trader Speaks, for the Central Jersey Baseball Card and Sports Memorabilia Convention gives us a chance to look back at a great pitcher, Sal Maglie, and some of his cards.
First, Sal Maglie was a dominant right-handed pitcher known for his fierce demeanor and sharp-breaking curveball. His tendency to throw close to hitters earned him the nickname “The Barber.” He found success in both the National and American Leagues during the 1950s, but most notably with the New York Giants with whom he was a 2x All-Star, World Series champ in 1954, NL Wins leader in 1951, and NL ERA Leader in 1950. He finished his career with 119 wins and a 3.15 ERA.
His rookie card is in the advertisement above, card #127 in the incredible 1951 Bowman set.
If you’re interested in graded copies, they won’t be too tough to find; PSA has graded 346 (as of April 17, 2025). Ultra-high grades are scarce, though, no 10s, and just seven 9s. PSA has graded eight signed copies, too. I wonder if any were signed at this show on February 17th, 1980!
This signed example sold for $135 on eBay in February 2021.
PS, notice the card show was advertising the auction of two 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle cards!
Happy collecting!