Fleer's Metal brand ran in the NBA from 1995-96 through 1999-00, and then it was gone forever...or was it? The entire Fleer lineup changed pretty drastically between 1999-00 and 2000-01. Metal, the Skybox name and the Flair name were dropped, although the Metal set is the only one that didn't continue on with a new name...or so I've thought for the past 20 years.
On August 13th, I scanned a page of 2000-01 Fleer Futures, a singular release. 2000-01 was the only year it was released. This set always smelled like Vick's Vapo-Rub, and even though I've always liked the set- it's one of my favorite releases of the 2000-01 season- and have collected it extensively since new, and scanned a large portion of it, it didn't hit me until today (13th)...this set is really just part of the Metal line!
Why do I think that you may ask? Two main reasons.
The front of the cards feature a metallic texture. Unlike the etched foil used on most Metal sets, it's literally silver glitter sparkles laminated to the front of the card. But undeniably metallic.
Here's a closeup:
The back, and this is where it hit me- look at the background.
That's pretty clearly a turned metal look. All the thousands of times I've looked at these cards, and I never put 2 and 2 together.
Unfortunately, it was the end of the line for the brand, no matter what, since Futures never appeared again.
(Third time's the charm. I meant to post this on Friday, then fell asleep before I could. Did the exact same thing Saturday. Now, finally, I'm getting it published!)
When I think of Fleer Metal, etched foil (like the Dufex technology from the mid 90's) is the first thing that pops into my head. Well that... and Marvel characters and cityscapes in the background.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting observation!
ReplyDeleteHey Billy, drop me an email if you get a chance. I think I sent some soccer cards your way by mistake in one of the flat rate boxes that I can't find now! I have a collector interested in them and was putting together a deal, but can't locate them. I was hoping if I did put them in your flat rate box you'd either be willing to mail them back or I could even drive to you. Hit me up if you get a chance, will hook you up with a bunch of good hockey cards to make it worth your while!
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