In "Mint Condition," award-winning journalist Dave Jamieson takes readers on a nostalgic and enlightening journey back to the heart of Americana—the baseball card. What begins as a personal quest to uncover the fate of his own childhood collection unfolds into a captivating exploration of the baseball card's evolution, from a simple advertising tool to a billion-dollar industry. Jamieson skillfully weaves history, economics, and personal anecdotes to tell the story of how these cherished pieces of cardboard came to define generations, shape the game of baseball itself, and eventually, experience a spectacular rise and fall. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, "Mint Condition" reveals the fascinating characters and pivotal moments that transformed baseball cards from children's playthings into valuable commodities, and later, into symbols of a bygone era. Jamieson's journey into the heart of this once-thriving industry is not just a tale of nostalgia, but a mirror reflecting the shifts in American culture and the economy. This book is an essential read for baseball fans, collectors, and anyone who has ever felt the thrill of holding a piece of history in their hands. "Mint Condition" is more than a story about baseball cards—it's a story about the changing tides of America's pastime and the enduring spirit of collectible treasures.