Description
1970-71 O-Pee-Chee
Ernie Wakely #97 Rookie Card St. Louis Blues (EX 5)
Step back into the golden era of expansion hockey with this 1970-71 O-Pee-Chee Ernie Wakely rookie card. As the St. Louis Blues solidified their place as a powerhouse in the West, Wakely emerged as a reliable force between the pipes, eventually sharing the net with legends like Jacques Plante. This specific card captures the classic aesthetic of the 1970 set, featuring the iconic "stadium light" background that has become a favorite among vintage hockey enthusiasts.
Ernie Wakely’s journey is a testament to perseverance. After years in the minors, he seized his opportunity with the Blues, posting impressive numbers and becoming a runner-up for the Vezina Trophy during the 1969-70 season. His performance helped lead the Blues to their third consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance. This card is not just a piece of cardboard; it is a snapshot of a goaltender who stood tall during one of the most exciting periods in NHL history.
Condition Report:
This card is in Excellent (EX 5) condition, showing remarkably well for a mid-grade vintage piece.
- Corners: All four corners show light, uniform touches of wear. They maintain a pleasing shape without major rounding or fraying.
- Edges: The edges are relatively clean for O-Pee-Chee stock, which is notorious for rough "factory cuts." There are minor flecks of white along the borders but no significant chipping.
- Centering: The centering is strong on the front, favoring the left slightly (approximately 60/40), which is well within the standards for an EX grade.
- Surface: The front displays vibrant green and blue hues with a high-gloss finish. The O-Pee-Chee bilingual back is exceptionally clean, with the green and black ink remaining bold and free of wax staining or marks.
Grade Estimate: EX 5 (Excellent)
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