1981 Topps

The 1981 Topps set consists of 198 cards, each 2-1/2” by 3-1/2”. Topps utilized a unique distribution strategy for the set that included a 66-card national set, with subsets of 44 cards issued in the East, West and Midwest. Card fronts bear a player image with a color border and a starburst design at the lower left corner housing his name, position and team. Card backs feature player statistics and biographical data. Larry Bird (#4), Magic Johnson (#21) and Julius Erving (#30) anchor the set. Rookie cards include Kevin McHale (#E75) and Bill Laimbeer (#MW74). The regional subsets are more difficult to obtain than the national set. The 1981 Topps set would be that company’s last foray into the basketball card market until 1992.