In anticipation for the summer 2008 release of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Topps is releasing Indiana Jones Heritage cards (shipping at the end of Feb. 2008) and will be available exclusively in hobby and specialty markets, not at mass retail.

The card imagery will feature 90 memorable scenes from all three original movies, with card designs paying homage to the Raiders of the Lost Ark cards first published by Topps in 1981. The retro-inspired Heritage branding and packaging -- complete with vintage gray-back card stock and bubble gum in every pack -- is sure to resonate with many collectors who grew up with the earlier Indiana Jones films.

"We're thrilled to be associated once again with this truly extraordinary property," Topps/VP of Publishing Ira Friedman says. "Our Heritage treatment for the original movies is a nostalgic and fun way to kick off our Indiana Jones trading card initiative. We're certain the core fans will treasure this early appetizer; the first phase of an ongoing program that will transition to the new movie and beyond."

Topps is in the process of finalizing arrangements with numerous cast members of the original movies to provide authentic autographs for the series. A list of confirmed signees will be announced shortly. An impressive roster of well-known illustrators is also on board to contribute original, one-of-a-kind Indiana Jones sketch cards. In addition, sequentially-numbered parallel cards round out the random, insert card offerings.

For updates and behind-the-scenes information check out the Topps Blog from editor David Waldeck. Additional information can be found on the official Topps site here.