1st Impressions: '08 Allen & Ginter

Is 2008 the year Topps Allen & Ginter "jumps the shark?"

The sell sheets for '08 TA&G are out, and I have to say, I'm just not excited about Allen & Ginter anymore.

The design is virtually identical to last year.

The base set is the same size as last year.

And there are the usual framed autographs and gamers, that were in it last year.

And that's the problem. It's the same set as last year. Well, not entirely the same. There's some sort of "Ginter Code" thingamabob that no one will understand, much less care about. And there will be a cut signature card of "Church" of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard! (Hail Xenu!)

Don't get me wrong, I'll collect it, and I'll enjoy it.

But I really think Topps should seriously consider pulling the plug on A&G after this year -- or at least switch it up to another 19th Century set (i.e. Ramly, Fatima, et al).

h/t to Wax Heaven, who has the sell sheets.