Up for sale is a fantastic piece of comic book history: a vintage trading card from the highly celebrated 1995 Marvel Masterpieces set, featuring the X-Men hero, Bishop. This is card number 12 from the base set, showcasing a dynamic and detailed illustration by the renowned artist Dimitrios Patelis, who contributed numerous iconic pieces to this series.
Card Details:
Set: 1995 Marvel Masterpieces
Card Number: 12
Character: Bishop
Artist: Dimitrios Patelis (as seen on the card's back)
Publisher: Fleer Corp.
Year: 1995
Evaluation & Condition:
This card is a true vintage collectible that has been exceptionally well-preserved. It was kept in a plastic folder sleeve album and has not been "played with" for over 30 years. This meticulous storage is a crucial detail for collectors, as it has protected the card's integrity from the common wear and tear seen on most vintage cards.
While this card has not been professionally graded by a service like PSA or CGC, I have carefully inspected it and am confident in its outstanding condition. It is a very strong candidate for a high grade, possibly a "9" or higher from a professional grading service.
Centering: The front of the card shows very good centering, with the borders being relatively even on all sides.
Corners: The corners are sharp with minimal to no signs of wear or "whitening," which is a key indicator of a well-preserved card.
Edges: The edges are clean and sharp, with no chipping, fraying, or visible damage from handling.
Surface: The card's surface is in remarkable condition. It retains its original high-gloss sheen, and a close inspection reveals no significant scratches, creases, or indentations. The front and back are very clean.
Overall PERSONAL Grade Estimate:
Excellent/Near Mint (EX-NM). Given its exceptional state of preservation, this card would be an excellent purchase for a serious collector looking for a high-quality "raw" (ungraded) card to either grade themselves or simply to display as a top-tier piece in their collection.
Collector's Information:
The 1995 Marvel Masterpieces series is a fan favorite, highly sought after for its unique and detailed, fully painted artwork. It is a cornerstone set for any collector of '90s non-sports cards or Marvel memorabilia. The back of the card includes a unique "Enemy" quote from the character Mountjoy, adding an extra layer of character lore that fans will appreciate. This is more than just a trading card; it's a piece of comic art history.
