5 YEARS LATER: O.J. ROOKIE CARDS IN THE DUMPER

5 YEARS LATER: O.J. ROOKIE CARDS IN THE DUMPER

BURBANK, Calif. (Wireless Flash) -- Tomorrow (June 17) will mark the 5th anniversary of the infamous O.J. Simpson Bronco ride through the streets of L.A. The former football great still claims he didn't murder ex- wife Nicole or Ron Goldman -- but the scandal has certainly murdered the market for Simpson collectibles. According to "Beckett's Football Collectibles," a 1970 Simpson rookie card that was worth $135 in 1993 has plummeted to only $70 -- although most can be had for less than $30. Sports collectible expert Rob Veres of Burbank Sports Collectibles claims the only collectors who want Simpson's rookie card are those who need it to complete their 1970 collection. He also doubts the value of Simpson cards will ever reach their pre-murder-trial level again. Simpson's not the only football player whose card price was affected by the murder. Veres says an Al Cowlings card that was worth $2.25 during the trial is now worth about 40 cents.

CONTACT: Rob Veres, ****; Burbank, CA; (818) 843-2600; Rich Kline (card expert); Arrange with Hugh Murphy; Dallas, TX; (972) 448- 9018