RAISE THE CUP - Detroit Celebration

Another one of my fun side projects that's been in hibernation of late has been my Raise The Cup collection. It probably is the most "loose" in terms of the rules I associate with it.

There's no checklist for something like this...it's all about the photos and the cost of the cards. And with that comes zero pressure. Zero pressure = Maximum fun.

A lot of my hobby friends know that I have this PC on the go and I appreciate when they keep an eye out for some new additions. The owner of one of the local card shops here in town pulled a few aside for me - cards that I'd never see before. Always exciting.

1998/99 Pacific

Trophy Winners

#7 Darren McCarty

What a photo! This might rank in the Top 10 of my cup raiser cards. It really epitomizes what the goal is with this build. The pinnacle moment of a player's hockey career - lifting the Stanley Cup. In the mid-90's, Detroit was a dangerous team each season. A guy like Darren McCarty was an impact player for team so deep in talent.

You can just see him soaking in the moment. It's as if the packed crowd isn't even there. And I love that the angle of the photo has no other players (or anyone else) on the ice around him. It makes for a more intimate moment. Really great pic.

1998/99 Pacific

Trophy Winners

#9 Brendan Shanahan

I'd never seen cards from this insert set before, so I did a little digging. It's a 10 card offering that was inserted into the Pacific flagship set in 98/99. Called the Trophy Winners set, not all 10 cards involve the Stanley Cup. Cards 1-4 are other trophy winners including Marty Brodeur and Sergei Samsonov. (remember him?)

1998/99 Pacific

Trophy Winners

#5 Sergei Fedorov

While the McCarty is a dynamite photo, The others in the set reveal a bit of a shortcoming in the photo quality department. Now I say that knowing full well this is such a one-shot moment. You only kiss the bride for the first time once. I don't envy the photogs on an assignment like covering a Stanley Cup clinching win.

But still, there has to be some better photo selection that Sergei getting sucked into a black void...no?

1998/99 Pacific

Trophy Winners

#6 Nicklas Lidstrom

Or Nick Lidstrom in the hallway posing directly for the camera.

This card might actually be dismissed from the collection as it really doesn't fulfill the true spirit of the cards I'm looking for. This is not nearly as dynamic and powerful as the moment he hoisted the Cup over his head on the ice for the first time. Not even close.

1998/99 Pacific

Trophy Winners

#8 Chris Osgood

And Chris isn't even lifting the Cup by himself. It's a half hoist. Ha.

Again, these photos just don't resonate with me in the same way as that McCarty. The great thing about this project is that I get to completely call the shots. I can choose to keep him...I can choose to let him go.

I don't I'll make that decision right now. I'll toss them into the binder and enjoy the new adds for a while instead.

There's one card left from this insert set that is now on my radar...card #10 is the Steve Yzerman. I'm kind of making it a must-have and so I guess I now officially have a wantlist. :)

Overall, these cards really reinforce just how much a person can enjoy the hobby without having to tear apart the wallet. As my fellow blogger The Chronicles of Fuji likes to say..."affordable treasures". Love that.

OK...let's have some fun. Just for pure enjoyment, you be the judge. Which of the above cards would you include (or decide not to include) into a project that is called 'Raise The Cup'? And why?

RAISE THE CUP - A Unique Card That I NEVER Would Have Found

A couple of months ago, I was asked to be on the Sports Cards Live podcast to talk about my approach to collecting, lessons learned in this hobby and share some of my PC pieces. It was a real joy to sit and enthusiastically "talk shop" with a person and audience that would (hopefully) appeciate my words. It's something I don't normally do.

This blog is really the major outlet for me to share my thoughts on the hobby, let me explore topics with a little more detail and show off some new finds. Even though I don't post nearly as much as I used to, I absolutely love that this platform is here when I want. Lately, the bug to post has returned...and I'm enjoying it.

In the days after my appearance on the podcast, I had a few people start following me on social media (be it Twitter or Instagram) which I found flattering as I don't normally post card stuff on those sites. And I had a couple collectors even reach out to me to connect - which I greatly appreciated. There are a lot of fantastic, positive hobbyists out there and their genuine care and love of collecting really cuts through the noise of negativity for me. In fact...I'm quite drawn to it. I love good hobby people and I love good hobby stories.

One of my new connections mentioned that he had a couple cards for my 'Raise The Cup' project...one of my favourite builds, as it celebrates the pinnacle moment in a player's career (winning the Stanley Cup and lifting it over their head). It's also a very affordable chase. There's no checklist but ample cards out there to find and acquire.

We swapped addresses as I noticed he liked Paul Kariya cards and I had one sitting in my trade box for a while. When I received my cards, I had a curious smile on my face when I was presented with this gem...

1996/97 Upper Deck SP

Inside Info

#NNO Joe Sakic

So...as we can all see, this card does not show Burnaby Joe lifting the Cup over his head. Right?

Wrong.

Don't let the cover fool you. The goodies are inside. :)

Ohhh....what have we here?? This looks fun.

I gotta say, for a card from the late 90's, this is pretty slick. Remember, there were no booklet cards at this time. Memorabilia cards were in their infancy. This was a very solid insert for its day.

And we're not even at the best part, yet.

Ta-da!!

What a great reveal...a little surprise inside the card. Very fun, very cool.

I never in a million years would have found this card to add to my Cup Raisers collection. I love the fact that someone else recognized they had this and knew I'd appreciate it.

And I do. I think this is without question the most unique card in this project - and one with a great story. Have I mentioned that I like stories? :)

I'm curious though, as to the choice to use a "backside Sakic" photo. What led to that decision? It's a great pic and I love the fact that it's part of the card, but I can't help but think that if they were considering that backside Cup photo to put on a standalone card...they wouldn't have gone with it. It's too outside the box.

That makes me like this card even more. It's awesome.

So a sincere thank you to Andrew over at Dog House Hockey Cards for the fantastic gift. I greatly appreciate you thinking of me...and your generosity.

Do you have a card with an "outside the box" photo on it? Something that makes the card feel almost foreign to the set or your collecting project? Love it or hate it?

RAISE THE CUP - A Pair Of Recent Adds

Had to scroll for a while to see when the last time I shared some Cup Raisers was. Five and a half years! Time truly does fly by.

As you can see recently, I've been a big fan of the SP Signature Editions Legends product released by Upper Deck. Some great names from the past, eye-catching photos, tasty hard-signed autographs and highly desirable insert sets makes this one to keep track of.

I shared some of the great cards from my box break - including the Canvas Legends. Amazing photos. I'll continue this along as I've gained a pair of great looking Cup Raisers.

2020/21 Upper Deck SP Signature Legends

#C-28 Ken Daneyko

Went to the local monthly trade night a couple weeks back and was gifted this beauty of a shot of Daneyko. This is exactly the kind of photo and card I love adding to the Cup Raisers collection - it encapsulates that pinnacle moment in a player's career...getting to hoist the Stanley Cup.

It's tight framing...but I think it adds to the intimacy of the moment.

Love it.  Thanks Brian.

As I was admiring that card in the shop, another person zipped back to his trade box and returned with this...

2020/21 Upper Deck SP Signature Legends

#C-97 Rod Brind'Amour

Another stunner. Get a load of that release of emotion from Rod the Bod. That's gotta be a goosebump moment.

A quick trade and this card, along with the Daneyko were coming home with me.

These two new additions now makes me want to go and properly sort and store my Raise The Cup cards. I think some are in a binder, some are still in toploaders...I need to get organized.

Totally what I'm going to do with some of my Sunday morning.

Do you have a card with a smokin' good photo on it?...One that captures an iconic moment?

PACK RIPPING - 2017 Canada Post Souvenir Sheets

For the fourth year in a row, I have picked up a pack (and thus a complete set) of Canada Post card stamps.  I have really enjoyed these - I think the designs and subjects have been fantastic to this point,  and was anticipating what the subject matter would be this season.

In 2014, it was the Original Six.

In 2015, the goalies got the call.

In 2016, it was the forwards who were the focus.

So I assumed it would be the defensemen that would get the packaging this year.

Not.  So.  Fast.

2017 Canada Post Souvenir Sheets

6 Stamp Set

(1 in every 40 packs has a signed stamp)

Before I share the subjects of this year's stamps, I just want to go over how great I think these are.

One pack runs $10.  You get six stamps (each with the $1.80 value attached) which can be used for your everyday mailed envelopes.  Win...win.

And if that wasn't enough, for the pack rippers and collectors in us, one in every forty packs will house a certified autograph stamp.  Obviously not every player in the six sign (some of them have passed away), but still.....what an awesome incentive.

It's a no-brainer to pick up a pack - even if it's just to collect the set each season.

So this year, it was "Canadian Hockey Legends".

I like to think that they borrowed my tremendously popular idea of showcasing Stanley Cup photos.

Yes, Maurice Richard is not "hoisting" the Cup, but it's a darn nice shot.

We've all seen this iconic photo of Wayne in full glory.

Look at that smile.  Look at that curly mop.

Good times.

A really nice young shot of Gordie Howe admiring Lord Stanley's Cup is a really nice addition.

Again, I'm partial to the guys who lift that bad boy over their head.

Mmmmmm.....not quite Mario.

Still, you just can't beat this checklist.

Bobby Orr with the huge grin.

Maybe I should start a subset called "hugs".

Last - but definitely not least, Jean Beliveau in what is my favourite card/stamp in the set.  He looks so young, so happy and the colours of the Habs look great in this pic.

So there you have it.  Another season of Canada Post stamps in the books.  I can't help but wonder what they will do next.  Future stars?  Gotta get McDavid in there soon enough.  How about the D-men?  They need some love.

I still think defunct teams would be outstanding.

Now go on out and buy a pack.  Let me know if you get a signed card!!

RAISE THE CUP - A Pair Of Show Pickups

OK....let's show off a couple fun cards for one of my fave projects of the past few years.

I've been working on my 'Raise The Cup' project for almost 8 years now.  It's such a simple concept but really shows off the flexibility and creativity that this hobby can bring - a collection of cards that depict players raising the Stanley Cup over their heads.  It's the pinnacle moment of their playing career and you can definitely see it in the faces of the players.

What I love about this build is that it is limitless - as long as photos of Stanley Cup champions show up on cards (and there have been tons of those recently), there can be cardboard to chase.  I love that it began as a comment to me about a photo of Lanny raising the Cup and has just grown into a fun, inexpensive collection.

That's what I think is the greatest aspect of this hobby - it can be whatever I want it to be.  If I want penalty box cards - I can do that.  If I want face-off closeups or glove saves - no prob.  How about goal celebrations - indeed.  The parameters of what I chase is fully formed from what I want to go after.

Beautiful.

So what have I got to add to this set???

Ray Bourque....in one of the all-time great Stanley Cup stories ever.  Pretty good start.

I remember watching this final series, and the final game, with eager anticipation.  It was exciting to see such a legend in the game finally win the big one and raise the Stanley Cup.  To see Joe Sakic hand the Cup over to Bourque so he could hoist it first was pretty special.

Seeing this card really brings those memories back.  You can see the emotion etched in his face and the relief and exhilaration as he finally realizes his dream.

This is the exact type of card I love for this set.  Cost less than a buck and has a great photo.

Sid the Kid has certainly carved out an incredible first half of his career.  No question he's the top player in the league today.  He's got all the tools and now has 3 Stanley Cups on his resume.  Incredible.

With all of his success, I'm surprised there aren't more Cup raising cards out there.  I think this might be my third or fourth in the binder - and I know there are some dedicated insert sets that include him, but I would have expected many more.

I like this photo because he's looking right in the camera.  Yes, it might look a little more "forced" as opposed to a genuine reaction to lifting the Cup, but it's still a nicely framed shot.  I'm on the fence if this would have been better suited to a vertical card layout as opposed to this horizontal offering.

Anyways, these were a pair of great finds from the big card show here a few weeks back.  Again, it's nice to dig in boxes....not really knowing what one might find.  There's really no checklist to this set, I just put them aside when I discover them.  It's what I love about card shows.


I've been brainstorming what other kinds of projects to consider that have the same level of  inventiveness (as I've finished my '1 vs. 100' project a couple years ago now).  Seeing these cards might just replenish the creative juices.


Current Collection - 159 cards

RAISE THE CUP - I Got A Gift......Hoo Boy

Last week at the monthly trade night I was the "fortunate" receiver of a "generous" gift.

There are a number of collectors, vendors, shops and just general hobbyists who know I collect Linden.  I do a pretty good job of subtly plastering that info wherever I go.  Be it me donning my Linden jersey or Canucks hat or maybe they just see my username on a number of online sites - bamlinden.

But there is a smaller group of people who know much about some of my other projects.  Be it my #WalletCard pc, Parkie Project, hard signed Hall Of Famers or my simple Raise The Cup chase.

"Thankfully" there are a few people who know how to really make a guy feel good about his collections....and is "willing" to "help a guy out" anytime he can.

(facepalm)

The look on my face when this card slowly glided over the countertop and into my view must have been spectacular.  In fact, the guy who gave it to me (let's call him "Captain Canuck") went out of his way not to text me a photo of it or share the info ahead of time.  Instead, wanting to get a front row seat at the tirade.

And a glorious tirade I shared.

I have really enjoyed collecting cards of guys enjoying that pinnacle moment in their career - hoisting the Stanley Cup.......but the cards with this guy on it - oh man.  It's hard to crack a smile on these ones (but I'll do my best since it was a "gift").

The worst part about it - and I am reliving it right now as I look at it - this is a really nice card (I just threw up in my mouth).  It's a great photo and the silver foil really makes the design pop (scan again does no justice....in fact I think it makes Messier's teeth more white).

So......I guess a "thank you" is in order.  Or something.

Now into the binder where you can be forgotten.


Current Collection - 157 cards

RAISE THE CUP - 2007 Ducks Authentic Moment

Another benefit to hunting and digging through numerous boxes looking for cards....you tend to find stuff you weren't even looking for.

In fact, I can't even claim to have found this card in particular.

Leave it to fellow collector, digger and frugal-minded collector Captain Canuck for finding this little offering for me.

Great eye!  This is a super shot of the "Big Three"??? posing for Polaroids after their big win in 2007.  Getzlaf, Perry and........some other guy.  Oh yeah - Dustin Penner.  Whatever happened to him?

Anyways, it was a solid pickup and I guess I have Captain Canuck to thank (although I'm sure I would've seen this one when I eventually went through that same box....it was just inevitable).

Adding another card to the ever growing binder tonight and I had a chance to flip through the pages.  I like when a project such as this starts showing some teeth.  A fun, inexpensive collection.

And that's what the hobby is all about.

(oh......and helping people)

For the record, Dustin Penner - a TWO TIME Stanley Cup Champion....ugh - last played in the NHL in 2014 and was last seen being unceremoniously booted from TSN's Trade Deadline team after tweeting some "insensitive stuff".  I think we will leave things at that.  Yikes.

Current Collection - 156 cards

RAISE THE CUP - I'm Organized!!

After letting my Raise The Cup project grow a little disorganized, I decided to spend part of a recent day off sifting through various piles, scrounging through a couple binders and finally getting this project in order.

And it's such a small load off my back.  Ha.

Seriously though, it's nice to have a little more focus on this project as it is one of my faves.

I've also decided that I'm going to officially chase some of the "Cup raising" subsets out there...so I might as well make a list or two.

I've mentioned in the past that card companies have done a nice job in borrowing my idea to create some stunning Cup raising cards.  I think the best of the lot are the Upper Deck Premier Signature Champions.  So much so that I've basically designated them in their own way - apart from this Raise The Cup project.  They're kind of like a couple brothers.

But there are some other great sets that I've now properly documented and organized.  They are now officially on the "to collect" list.  They are (in no particular order)...

2014/15 OPC Platinum Stanley Cup Champs
2012/13 Panini Certified Path To The Cup SC Winner
2010/11 Panini Certified Champions
2011/12 Panini Certified Champions
2011/12 Panini Contenders Legacies
2001/02 BAP Memorabilia Stanley Cup Champions
2002/03 BAP Memorabilia Stanley Cup Champions
2008/09 Upper Deck Tales Of The Cup
2005/06 UD Power Play Cup Celebrations
2006/07 UD Power Play Cup Celebrations

I also have a couple subsets that I've completed through this venture and so I won't include them (since I already have them).

Some of these sets I've got a good dent into while others are going to be new quests.  It's exciting that I now have some defined goals with this pc as it was pretty much "oh look.....I'll add this one to the binder".  That limited me to sifting through boxes with no rhyme or reason to it.  Now, if I find a box of sorted base or inserts (ok....I can laugh about that) I can pull out the list and cross the fingers.  As well, if I come across some near-completed sets, I can chase only those that I need - what a concept.

I also did a little re-shuffling of my non-set Cup raising cards and got the binder nicely organized.  It was a fun couple hours and it really is something I should do more often.

So with this new found level of awesomeness that is my Raise The Cup project, I'll show off my newest acquisition.

This 2014/15 UD Masterpieces Wire Photo card has a nice photo of Bill Guerin kissing the Cup, but I really think it would have been a better card if it were in color.  The whole "wire photo" thing is a little old now.

When Parkhurst had them included in their 2011/12 product, they were really well done.  Exciting, great photos and a unique addition.  Nowadays, there have been a couple different products trying to emulate that feel (including this card above) and they just miss the mark for me.  They feel more like just a photo that has been desaturated and slapped on a card.  The white text on black also really disrupts what a wire photo is to me.

I think a wire photo is a certain style of photo, not an overhead shot, not a dynamic shot....it's hard for me to explain.  All I know is that a photo like the Guerin above just doesn't have the feel of what a wire photo is.

Add to that the lack of a border.....and it just isn't even close to hitting the barn.

But I didn't grab this card for the wire photo likeness, all I'm interested in is the Stanley Cup.  So for that...it'll do just fine.

I'm looking forward to going into a new year with a plan for this project.  You can even ask me what I need now....I can tell you.  :)

Current Collection - 155 cards

RAISE THE CUP - Stanley Cup Champs...Duh

More sorting of cards on my desk.  Finally getting to these Stanley Cup Champs cards (yet another insert set that is piggybacking off of my tremendous idea).

The more I think about the Cup raising concept, the more I'd like to see more retro cards in these inserts.  Imaging some great Original Six guys in their glory, or maybe the Broad Street Bullies celebrating their accomplishment.  How about some of the all-time greats hoisting the holy grail.

I wonder how many of those moments actually have a good photo to capture the moment?

Anyways, I digress.  On with the show.

Marty Brodeur with the big grin.  Really epitomizes what this project is all about.

By the way.....these cards scan like crap.  They are a nice shiny red foil background, die-cut on the right to outline the Stanley Cup.

Patrick Kane representing one of the great dynasties in our current era.

Yup....I said it.  The D word.

Chicago is just that good, and have found ways to continue winning even with the struggles against the cap and with player turnover.  Impressive.

Case in point.....Brandon Saad.

That's a moment he better remember for a lifetime.

I really liked the "That 70's Line" of Pearson, Carter and Toffoli.  They really injected the Kings with some energy and spunk.

And Tyler has a spunky look on his face to celebrate.

Spunktacular.

Marty.  It feels like so long ago (I guess it has now that I think of it).

Amazing how time flies.

This 20-card insert set from the 2014/15 OPC Platinum product should be one to chase.  Now I have to prep some checklists of all the ripoff sets I have to go after.

Before any more pop up this year.

RAISE THE CUP - Worst Card Design Ever

I hate to say that I've let my 'Raise The Cup' project get a little disorganized.  Part of what I wanted this blog to be way back in the day was a vehicle for me to become a little more in check with what I'm collecting, where things are and what I actually have in my various pcs.

One of the things I'm determined to do before the end of the year is really get my card collections in order.  Get the closet dialled and shed some of the extra base and unwanted (and untraceable) cards out of the way.

But I was in a scanning mood a few days back and I saw a number of Cup raisers that just screamed to be entered into the digital world.

And by screaming...I mean "What the heck is this crap??!!!"

I can easily say that these 15/16 SP Authentic All-Time Moments cards are some of the worst design layouts I've ever laid eyes on.

I don't know about you, but I would balk at slapping a big sheet of black over nearly half of the card.  I can't believe that the designers at Upper Deck decided that sacrificing the photo was the best option so they could throw some text on the front of the card.

Nah.....I don't actually need to SEE Sakic and Roy (hey Bourque is in there too...I can see half his head).  You've so eloquently described the setting with your words.

It's abysmal.

This one is slightly.....SLIGHTLY better.  But still - one heck of an ugly card.

And what is with the border?  I was trying to figure out if there was a printing error along the bottom.  Was my scanner already crapping out?

No....it's supposed to look like that.  It's like a filmstrip.  Cuz, you know.....they're silver - right?

I almost don't want to include these into the project (and I guess I do have the ultimate say over that) but I think deep down I want to include them.  Just so I am reminded that a bad decision should never be justified.

They're so ugly that I've got to send them.....


PPPPPPFFFFFFFFFFTTTTTTTTTTTTT..............

TO THE BIKE SPOKES!!!!!!!

RAISE THE CUP - Mike Pushed Me Over The Edge

It's been a busy month for me in the world of sports cards.  In addition to some great Linden (and Parkhurst) additions, I picked up some cool oddball items (which I will show off this weekend), I won a round of pack wars at the monthly trade night (nothing too spectacular....but better than a kick in the hoo-ha) and I traded for a card that might be the straw that breaks the back and launches me into another side project.

2014/15 Upper Deck Premier

Signature Champions

#SC-MK Mike Krushelnyski  /99

By no means is this a "killer pickup", but the fact that I've been eyeballing this set for a while says something.

Those of you who follow my blog know that I like to pick up cards that have players hoisting the Stanley Cup over their head.  I've got a good 150 or so cards now and I think they look pretty cool as a set.

Over the past few years there have been numerous insert sets and subsets that utilize these great moments and form a Stanley Cup memory-type subject.  The problem is that most of the time the cards are just missing a little something.  Not diverse enough of a checklist, one or two photos that don't quite fit the theme or just not an interesting design.

This Signature Champions set from UD Premier is really quite stunning.  Some solid player selections (Krushelnyski aside), hard-signed autographs and good photos.

So the question is - Why haven't I been building this set?

Here's the checklist...

Anze Kopitar  /50
Chris Chelios  /99
Dustin Brown  /50
Evgeni Malkin  /25
Eric Staal  /99
Grant Fuhr  /50
Guy Lafleur  /99
Brett Hull  /25
Jaromir Jagr  /25
Joe Sakic  /25
Jonathan Toews  /50
Martin Brodeur  /99
Marc-Andre Fleury  /99
Mike Krushelnyski  /99
Mario Lemieux  /10
Mark Messier  /25
Martin St. Louis  /99
Pavel Datsyuk  /50
Patrick Roy  /10
Rob Blake  /99
Steve Yzerman  /10
Tom Barrasso  /99
Teemu Selanne  /10
Wayne Gretzky  /10

As you can see it's a pretty solid list.  Sure, there are some "meh" cards (Krushelnyski) but the big guys more than make up for it.

There are some names in there that would be cool to chase as I've never tried to track down autos of these guys (Gretzky, Lemieux, Roy).  But....

$$$$$  CHA-CHING

That's the only thing that has me hesitating.

I feel pretty comfortable with about 18-20 of them.  And as I typed that out.....it makes me feel pretty good about the whole thing.

In fact, I really like the idea of building this set now.  I think it would be a fantastic project - which falls right into the pocket of what I like to chase - and I don't feel like I would be breaking the bank.  After all....as I always say...

It's not a race.

So with that, I am officially starting it up.  Look for more "Signature Champions" posts in the future.

RAISE THE CUP - A Moment To Celebrate

It's been a slow go on the Cup Raisers front.  Just two new cards to add to the collection.  Truth be told, I haven't really been trying lately.  These ones just happened to pop up in front of me and I pulled the trigger.

note: I found a couple more at the monthly show today......ok, Captain Canuck found a couple - for me.  I'll show them off soon.

But that's what I love about this project.  I can go at my own pace - or no pace...it's just a fun set to add to and look at every once in a while.

2005/06 Power Play

Cup Celebrations

#120 Martin Brodeur

These Cup Celebration cards that are part of the Power Play sets are really nice.  I've got a couple others from the following year (I think a Lemieux and Modano) but this Marty is the first from the 05/06 season.

I really should do my homework and see just how many cards I can chase from these sets.

It was a great add that I saw, once again, at the big card show back in October.  Courtesy of one of the local card shops - Maple Leaf Sports.

It's been fun going to Darren's shop for trade night each month.  I'm really fortunate to have some good card stores in the city (even if his is a solid half hour drive).  He's tops at keeping an eye out for any Lindens I might need too.  Gotta like that.

Thanks Darren!

2014/15 Upper Deck SP Authentic

All-Time Moments

#190 Chris Chelios

Another nice card coming in from a good subset.  Once again, I should really check out how many of these All-Time Moments cards have Lord Stanley's Mug being raised.

This Chelios offering comes from another great shop in the city - Eastridge Hobbies.  And once again, they put on a great trade night each month.

I really am spoiled when it comes to what this hobby has to offer locally.

Doug and Mikey keep things pretty chill at their trade nights and I love the crazy topics that are sometimes discussed.

They too keep an eye out for this long-time Linden collector.  And it's really appreciated.

Thanks guys!


When I think about it, having these trade nights to go to, knowing that there are good shops in town and having a steady card show each month gives me many great options when it comes to participating in this hobby locally.  Not to mention the numerous fellow collectors that really make this card collecting world of mine a special one.

OK....enough gush.  I've added two more cards to the binder.  Woo hoo.

Current Collection - 123 cards

RAISE THE CUP - Eric Staal....And You're Welcome

When I started this "Raise The Cup" project a number of years ago, it was purely for fun.  Finding cards that capture that pinnacle moment in player's career.

At the time I thought there would be some odd inserts and base cards depicting players hoisting The Cup over their head, but I never would have imagined the boom in the evolution of this great concept.

After seeing Panini come out with their sets showcasing Cup winners (and using many photos showing the Cup-raising moment), I got a little excited.  After all, it clearly must have been my project that provided the inspiration.  Ha.

I've seen a good 4 or 5 different subsets or insert sets come out over the years and slowly I thought "Hey, quit cramping my style."  Ok, maybe not...but the project I started began to feel a little different when all of the sudden the market become a little more flooded with Cup-raising cards.

I think that's part of the reason why I've tended to avoid those sets.

Fast forward to this past weekend where I found a card - from a set - that might have just hit the jackpot.

2014/15 Upper Deck Premier

Signature Champions

#SC-ES Eric Staal auto  /99

What can I say.....it's a gorgeous card.

Fantastic photo, solid design, hard-signed auto, reasonable numbering.  This card has it all.  In fact, it perfectly parallels an idea I had for a custom TTM project (which I think I'm going to contemplate a little more).

A quick look at the checklist for this set shows that there's some beef to it.

A total of 24 cards, some numbered to /99, some /50, some /25 and the biggies /10.

Guys like Staal can be had for a few dollars while I'm sure the Messier (ugh) or Gretzky will command a whole lot more.

I contemplated building the set....until I looked at the checklist.  While it would be fun to chase, the fun might wain when it comes to the heavy hitters.  So I'm happy with this Staal being the representative in my binder.

And to all the companies that have used the "Raise The Cup" theme...you're welcome.

Current Collection - 121 cards

RAISE THE CUP - Cleaning Off The Desk

Well I had a few moments tonight to clean up my office desk.  Seems there's been a massive explosion, and the result......cards, cards everywhere.

Most are ones that need to go into trade binders or monster boxes (as they've been downgraded from the toploader world) a handful are from various projects and a couple are "reminder" cards.

What they're supposed to remind me to do.....who knows anymore.

But I came across three cards that were easy to place and a quick check on a project binder showed me that I needed to do some scanning.....and some show & telling.

This Mario Lemieux card is a real eye-catcher.  Even when I look at it close up, it has that drawn/sketch feel to it.  But it's not.  It's just a slightly overexposed photograph.

Inserted into the 2006/07 Power Play insert set called Cup Celebrations, this has slowly revealed itself as one of the earlier Cup raising insert sets out there.

I picked it up at a trade night a few months ago.  Crazy enough - I traded for it.

A lot of LA Kings Stanley Cup cards of late (but not this year).  I really like a lot of the horizontal offerings in my project.  The background really gives the card depth and makes the Cup punch out even more.

Kopitar looks truly overjoyed.  What a great moment - and a perfect example of what I like about this collection.

Uh oh.....we need a ruling.

A while back I made the decision to take some cards out of my Raise The Cup project.  I decided that some of the parameters include...

1. Photo must appear on the front of the card
2. Stanley Cup must be raised over the player's head

Well, clearly you can see that we only have 50% on the test.  But boy is this card ever nice.  You can tell that this photo was taken literally moments after Toews was presented the Cup.  The expression on his mug is perfect and there's good energy in the shot.

Plus it's Jonathan Toews....not Mark Messier.  I was able to throw out a card of The Moose because he had the Cup at his side.  A good reason as any to get rid of it.

This card on the other hand - is going in.......for now.  I'm sure I'll change my mind at a later point.

But I get to do that.  It's my project.

Current Collection - 120 cards

RAISE THE CUP - A Carter Kiss

I've been slow on the draw when it comes to showing off this card.  I've had it now for a good 2-3 weeks and I'm tired of it sitting on my desk.

Actually, I'm tired of the 6 or 7 piles of cards sitting on my desk.  This one single piece of cardboard really doesn't bug me too much.

But it's been scanned and in draft mode here for far too long.  So let's end that.

Once again, Upper Deck has put a strong focus on photography when it comes to its flagship hockey product.  I've sifted through a number of cards from the set and I must say it's a little hit and miss.

A unique or new camera angle is always interesting (and appreciated), but when it's done to 3...4...5 players in the set, it grows old - quick.  That's the case with the 14/15 issue of UDI.

This Jeff Carter offering though does have a unique feel to it.  And the timing on the photo is about as good as it can get when snagging a pic of Carter with the Cup.

With a lot of cards in my Raise The Cup project, the shot is a little wider, more of a full body shot.  I like the closeup feel of this photo.  An intimate moment showing a true pinnacle moment.  Nice.

That logo on the bottom of the Cup is so perfect, I wonder if it was Photoshopped in after the fact?  I'll be honest, I've never noticed that logo on the bottom of the Cup before.  Is it there when the guys are parading around the ice?

I'll have to do some detective work.

Until then....into the binder you go.

Current Collection - 117 cards

RAISE THE CUP - A Pair From Trade Night

A busy work week left me struggling to get home at a decent hour let alone take care of important stuff....like post to my blog.  I've had a lot of stuff I wanted to share.

Oh well, it should be a calmer weekend.......should.

Tonight I'll share a pair of cards that I picked up from trade night a week and a half ago.  One I snagged in an actual trade, the other I landed as part of my Pack Wars win.

Both are very nice additions to the ever-growing set.

This Panini Certified Path To The Cup card is now the third from this very cool looking insert set that I have in my 'Raise The Cup' project.

I enjoy the horizontal layout of the card because it allows me to see more of the background and atmosphere of the moment captured.

The bold graphics at the bottom just add punch to the card.  And as a bonus, it's serial numbered to just 99 (almost impossible to see in the upper left corner).

Too bad Panini is now out of the hockey card making business....this would have been a sweet set to bring back year after year.

I never get bored of seeing Ray Bourque lifting the Cup.  Beautiful timing on this photo too....I can feel the emotion coming from the cardboard.

This card comes from the 2013/14 SP Authentic product and I gotta say that the Authentic Moments set really impressed me - especially the photos from the 80's.  Stay tuned as I plan to share a couple beauts.

But back to this card.  As much as I love the horizontal design on the Willie Mitchell, I really like the vertical design for the Bourque.  Odd.  I think in this instance, the taller layout allows me to focus a little more on Bourque first, then the rest of the arena.  The Cup in more in frame as well (which would be tougher to do with a different orientation).

Overall, a pair fit for the binder.  Ever growing.

Current Collection - 116 cards

RAISE THE CUP - Can I Get A Ruling Here!

Last week's monthly trade night came and went and I was thrilled to meet up with a fellow Linden, Canucks and custom card aficionado.  He was in town for a few days and contacted me out of the blue asking if there was anything hobby related going on.

Awesome!  A chance to talk shop with a guy I've been a fan of for a while.

We headed down to the card shop and had a great time.

I caved at the end of the night and bought a box of 13/14 MVP (it was on sale).  Why....why...why?!!!

I might......might show off the wares down the road.

I did make a trade though.  And it landed me a new card for my Raise The Cup project.  Although there are some that are throwing the flag.

You be the judge.

Now to me, this card embodies what the project is all about.  Capturing that pinnacle moment in a player's career when they finally get to hold the Holy Grail of hockey trophies.

If that moment wasn't the perfect time to snap a pic of Jonathan Quick...I don't know what would be.

To me, it's a keeper.  But I'm sure I'll assess and address the situation down the road.  I'm OCD like that.

But for now...

Current Collection - 114 cards

RAISE THE CUP - A Pair That Epitomize The Project

It's been a long while since I've added any cards to my Raise The Cup project.  In fact, it's been downright embarrassing.  So much so that I think I'll be a little more aggressive in digging through boxes this season looking for these inexpensive gems.

I've got two cards to show off today.  Both came courtesy of Captain Canuck.  He's always keeping an eye out for my collections and I very much appreciate it.

What I like about both of these cards is that they reek of exactly what this project is all about.

This Jean Beliveau offering is spectacular.  The vintage black and white photo, the classic, snug sweater, the beaming smile of one of the classiest players ever - period, and the holy grail in plain view.  Love it.

Sadly, I did have it in my collection already.  But that doesn't mean it's not worthy of an encore showing.  Plus, I'm taking out the previous version and adding this card in its spot.

I remember where I was when Ray Bourque lifted the Cup for the one and only time in his career.  It was a fantastic moment.  Oh how I wished my guy would have been able to do that as a player (because he still could as the newly minted President of the Canucks).

This is a great shot of Bourque's pinnacle moment.  Low-angle camera, an even bigger grin than Beliveau and he looks as if that Cup is never coming down.

All that captured on a McDonald's card.  Yup...that's right.  This card came in a pack with a Happy Meal.  And while it scans horribly, it looks great in person.  The faint Avalance logo in the foil background really makes Ray pop out of the card even more.  And I love that Pacific decided to not zoom in on the photo - thus cropping out the Cup.  I'm glad they realized how important it was to have the whole shot in there.


So thanks very much again Captain Canuck.  I'm looking forward to seeing what you find for me next.

Current Collection - 113 cards

RAISE THE CUP - Four Beautiful Blackhawks & One Sweet Stevens

I finally took some time to get my Raise The Cup project organized.  It had gotten a little out of control (if you can call a 100-card pc "out of control").  There were cards strewn all over my desk, duplicates sitting in my binder and frankly....some cards that just needed to go.

Without going into a ton of detail.....I've streamlined.

No longer will the Panini Certified insert sets be a part of this project.  Instead, I will slowly build the sets on their own.  They will sit as an accompanying part of the collection, but not part of the project.

Cards in these binder sheets will now be full on cards that have the player on the front clearly celebrating with The Cup.  No more duplicate cards (french/english, US/Canada variations, etc.).  Sorry to the dozen or so cards that have been given the boot.  It's for the greater good.

In addition to the housecleaning, I decided to scan some cards.  So let's take a look at some of the new additions.

2013/14 Upper Deck Series I

#117 Jonathan Toews

Yeah...this one was a no brainer.  What a fantastic photo.

Sweat-drenched hair, championship cap, playoff beard, outburst of joy.  What more does one want in a card?

Oh yeah.....The Cup!

I love the angle of the shot in this photo.  The side view allows one to get a good look inside the bowl.  Very cool.

2013 Panini Black Friday

#18 Jonathan Toews (shiny version)

This card sucks when scanned....but looks fantastic in person.  Wavy, shiny, black and with a simple design.  It looks great.

This card was a part of Panini's Black Friday promotion last year, so I assume it was a giveaway card.  I was able to trade for it a number of months back.

It's been sitting on my desk ever since.  For shame.

2011/12 Panini Donruss Elite

#14 Dustin Byfuglien

I was told that this shiny offering comes from another Panini giveaway thingy.  Works for me.

Dustin is looking a little more chill than Toews and I love the crooked hat. Slick.  The "deer in headlights" facial expression is the icing on the cake.

But....he's hoisting that trophy.  It's in.

2013/14 Upper Deck Series I

UD Canvas

#C50 Patrick Kane

Speaking of chill.  Kane looks cool like Tom Cruise in 1983.

The ticker tape background gives this card a great looking effect and oddly makes Kane and the Cup pop out....and yet at the same time blend in.  Optical.

2000/01 Topps Stadium Club

#33 Scott Stevens

But the king of ticker tape cards might just go to this Scott Stevens offering.

The low angle shot makes Scott look like he's king of the world and the background just sits so abstractly.


So with that, I'm now up to date on the collection.  Let's see how long that lasts.


Current Collection 112 cards

RAISE THE CUP - I Think I Need To Trademark My Project

I was taking a peek at ITG's newest release - Lord Stanley's Mug - and couldn't help but notice a sweet little insert set that reminded me of something.....oh I don't know.

Hoisting The Cup looks like a pretty cool concept (I'll take a small fee for that thank you).   :)

In all honesty, I love the idea of players hoisting the Cup over their head.  Capturing that lifetime dream moment on cardboard forever.

But this latest take on the concept is not the first we have seen of this.

Panini Contenders had a subset called Contenders Legacies which shows (or almost shows) players raising the Cup in celebration.

I would have loved to have seen a more comprehensive checklist on this one.

But there is one release that really had me thinking that I was on to something.

The very first hockey product put out by Panini back in 2010/11 had an insert set called Certified Champions.  In it, a nice selection of players past and present celebrating the pinnacle of hockey excellence.

At first I decided to chase the set, but didn't pursue it with a whole lot of gusto.  I think I even need a couple cards still.  Things multiplied when the following season another round of Champions were released.

I'm still on the fence as to how to approach these cards.  Part of me likes what I've built because (for the most part) the cards are unique to the product.  They aren't parts of sets or anything.....they just fit together nicely when in my binder.

These purposeful product releases would mean that I have a checklist to babysit.  I don't know if I want that.

Don't get me wrong.....they're nice cards and all, but are they what I want for my collection?

That's the question.


By the way, this is the one time I think I'll ever say this.....

I'm really happy that my guy didn't win a Cup.  It's one less bit of checklist adding I have to do.  That Lord Stanley's Mug product looks really nice.  The auto set looks amazing.