Graded by PSA MINT 9. To start off their 1974 set, Topps decided to preemptively honor Hank Aaron as baseball's "new all-time home run king." Great centering, perfect corners, and a vivid image of Aaron are the highlights of this MINT baseball card. Just one has received a higher grade from PSA.
After finishing the '73 campaign with a career total of 713 home runs—one behind Babe Ruth's mark—it was only a matter of time before he would surpass the 'Sultan of Swat' and take his place at the top of the home run leaderboard. Hammerin' Hank tied Ruth's record in his first swing of the season on April 4, 1974, blasting a pitch from Reds pitcher Jack Billingham into the stands at Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium. He broke the record when the Braves returned to Atlanta on April 8th, sending an Al Downing fastball into the bullpen for his famous 715th home run. Aaron would retire two years later, with 755 home runs to his name.
