July 24, 2025–January 20, 2026
The Met
The exhibition “Baseball Cards from the Collection of Jefferson R. Burdick” at The Met celebrates one of the most remarkable collections of historical baseball cards in the world. Housing over 30,000 baseball cards dating back to the 1880s, this collection emerged from the passion and dedication of Jefferson R. Burdick (1900–1963), an electrician and avid ephemera collector from Syracuse, New York. Burdick began generously donating his extensive holdings, which included more than 300,000 trade cards, postcards, and posters, to The Metropolitan Museum of Art starting in 1947.
This exhibition features over one hundred select cards spanning from the late nineteenth century through the 1950s. These cards, created with a variety of printing techniques and artistic styles, offer a vivid glimpse into America’s pastime through collectible memorabilia. They depict the legends and icons of baseball during eras long past, reflecting not only their athletic achievements but also the evolving graphic design and cultural context of the times.
Beyond being mere collectibles, the cards in this exhibition reveal stories about the historical development of baseball and its role in American society. They serve as colorful artifacts that connect sport, art, and commerce. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this extraordinary visual journey that chronicles the sport’s heritage and showcases the artistry and innovation that shaped the collectible card industry.
By presenting Burdick’s cherished cards, The Met not only honors a devoted collector but also preserves a unique slice of Americana. This exhibition is a testament to how ephemeral objects can become treasured cultural records, reflecting social history and popular culture in powerful ways. For those fascinated by sports history, graphic arts, or American culture, this exhibition offers an enriching and captivating experience.
For more detailed information and to plan your visit, please refer to the official exhibition page on The Met’s website: https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/baseball-cards-from-the-collection-of-jefferson-r-burdick-2025.
