1953 Topps #21 Billy Johnson
1953 Topps #21 Billy Johnson
About Billy Johnson
Signed by Yankees scout Paul Krichell in 1936 for a $100 bonus, William Russell "Billy" Johnson climbed the New York farm system before manager Joe McCarthy converted the strong-armed prospect into a third baseman. He debuted in 1943 and, spraying hits to all fields, batted .280 with 94 RBI, finished fourth in AL MVP voting, and drove in the decisive runs with a bases-loaded triple in Game 3 of that year's World Series win over the Cardinals. After two years lost to Army service in Europe (1944-45), Johnson returned as a Yankees regular, made the 1947 All-Star team, and hit three triples while leading New York in runs in that fall's seven-game Series triumph over Brooklyn. Nicknamed "the Bull" by teammates for his power, he won four World Series titles (1943, 1947, 1949, 1950) before a May 1951 trade—clearing third base for rookie Gil McDougald—sent him to the St. Louis Cardinals, the team pictured on this 1953 Topps card. Over nine seasons he hit .271 with 882 hits, 61 home runs, and 487 RBI.
Sources: Wikipedia · Baseball-Reference · SABR
Graded population (PSA & SGC)
| Grader | Total | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 1-4 | Auth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA | 463 | 1 | 3 | 83 | 105 | 134 | 81 | 55 | 1 |
| SGC | 57 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 15 | 8 | 14 | 16 | 0 |
Graded population — a scarcity guide, not a price. Snapshot 2026-06-26. Half-grades fold down (8.5→8). PSA counts are straight-graded.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the 1953 Topps Billy Johnson card?
It is card #21 of the 1953 Topps Baseball set - one of the most beautiful sets ever made, with hand-painted color portraits numbered to 280 (274 cards issued). It pictures the St. Louis Cardinals player.
Is the 1953 Topps Billy Johnson valuable?
Value depends on grade and eye appeal. Use the links above to check current T206 Cards inventory and live eBay listings.
Sources: Trading Card Database, Baseball-Reference, PSA & SGC population reports, and Baseball-Almanac. Card data & population compiled and maintained by T206Cards.com. Page last updated 2026-07-01.