First mainstream refractor parallel

Why it matters

Topps Finest introduced the color-shifting refractor parallel in 1993: every base card in the Finest set had a rarer refractor version, distributed at approximately one per nine packs. The 1993 Topps Finest #110 Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor is the first meaningful refractor in the hobby, and every rainbow parallel, every Prizm, every Optic Shock, every serialized 1-of-1 insert of the last thirty years descends from the format Finest introduced. Alongside the 1993 SP Jeter, Finest marks the JW50's post-era boundary.

How to identify

Card #110 from the 1993 Topps Finest set, refractor version. The refractor has a distinctive color-shifting chromium finish that changes hue at different angles, versus the base Finest card which has a static chrome finish. Confirm the refractor R designation on the back, or verify the color-shift under different lighting.