1981 O-Pee-Chee #240 Nolan Ryan Gray Back PSA MINT 9

1981 O-Pee-Chee #240 Nolan Ryan Gray Back PSA 9 - A Rare, Pop 4 Canadian Gem with Only 1 Graded Higher

In the early 1980s, Nolan Ryan was already a living legend, entering his 15th big league season with an unmatched reputation for velocity, intimidation, and sheer dominance on the mound. By 1981, he had racked up over 3,000 strikeouts, had thrown four no-hitters, and was widely regarded as the hardest thrower in baseball history. This card from the 1981 O-Pee-Chee set, Canada’s parallel to Topps, captures Ryan during his Astros years—still overpowering hitters with his trademark fastball and on the brink of even greater records to come.

What makes this card truly special is its “Gray Back” variation—a rare printing nuance that makes it substantially tougher than the standard issue. Printed in far smaller quantities than its Topps counterpart and distributed solely in Canada, O-Pee-Chee cards are notoriously hard to find in elite condition. The paper stock is more fragile, the cutting quality more erratic, and exposure to the Canadian climate didn’t help survival rates.

This PSA 9 copy is a premier example—one of just 4 graded this high, with only 1 known higher. The corners are needle-sharp, the colors remain crisp and unfaded, and the image of Ryan in mid-delivery radiates vintage charisma. The card’s centering, often a weak spot in OPCs, is notably strong here, adding to its overall appeal.