The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. Featuring superstar players like Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Robin Yount, many of the cards from this 720-card release have stood the test of time and increased tremendously in value. Here’s a look at the 10 most valuable 1979 Topps baseball cards based on PSA 10 gem mint condition:
#1 Nolan Ryan (Astros)
Starting off the list is one of the greatest pitchers of all-time, Nolan Ryan, featured on the very first card in the 1979 set. Known for his blazing fastball and record-setting strikeouts, Ryan was entering his prime years with the Astros in 1979. His iconic card shows him mid-windup with his powerful right arm cocked back. In a PSA 10 grade, this Ryan rookie card fetches around $800-$1000 due to his legendary status.
#516 Ozzie Smith (Padres)
Widely considered the best defensive shortstop ever, “The Wizard” Ozzie Smith made his Topps rookie card debut in 1979 with the Padres. As the future 13-time Gold Glove winner was just starting to establish himself in San Diego, his card doesn’t hold huge value today simply due to his name at around $850-$950 graded mint. It’s still among the most coveted rookie cards from the set.
#334 Mike Schmidt (Phillies)
Arguably the greatest third baseman of all-time, Mike Schmidt’s imposing figure led the Philadelphia Phillies dynasty of the late 1970s and early 80s. His 1979 Topps card depicts the multi-time MVP in his home Phillies uniform with his signature aggressive batting stance. Schmidt’s lasting fame and Hall of Fame career push this card’s PSA 10 value up to $1000+.
#1 Cal Ripken Jr. (Orioles)
Beginning an incredible consecutive games played streak of his own, Cal Ripken Jr. had just broken into the big leagues as the future “Iron Man” with the Baltimore Orioles in 1979. His iconic rookie card as the first card in the set commands major interest due to Ripken’s untouchable records and legend status. In pristine condition, it can sell for $1100-$1200.
#500 Dave Parker (Pirates)
In the prime of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, slugging outfielder Dave Parker was named NL MVP in 1978 when this card was issued. His muscular physique and intimidating batting stance made him one of baseball’s biggest stars of the late 70s/early 80s. Known both for his prodigious power and for his role in the “We Are Family” Pirates teams, a PSA 10 of Parker’s key rookie card jumps in value to $1200-$1400.
#634 Robin Yount (Brewers)
As the young Milwaukee Brewers shortstop continued developing his all-around game in 1979, Robin Yount was on the verge of a monster career. His charming smile and boyish looks are captured nicely on this classic rookie issue. Yount would later convert to a Hall of Fame career in center field, making this a must-have for Brewers PC collectors. With his enduring fame, a pristine example can sell for $1400-$1600 graded mint.
#696 Joe Morgan (Astros)
By 1979, Joe Morgan was already a star second baseman after winning back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1975-76 with the Big Red Machine Cincinnati Reds. Traded to the Astros prior to this season, his athletic stance and competitive fire are evident on this iconic card. In addition to Morgan’s leadership of championship teams, his key role in reviving 2B play drives values on this vintage issue up to the $1600-$1800 range.
#1 Wade Boggs (Red Sox)
Already a star at third base for the Boston Red Sox by 1979, Wade Boggs’s classic rookie card debuts at the top of the set. Known for his prodigious batting average and obsessive routine, his intense gaze and no-nonsense style defined his career. As perhaps the greatest hitter of the 80s and a Hall of Famer, a PSA 10 copy of this first card will set collectors back $2000+ these days.
#1 George Brett (Royals)
Like Boggs, George Brett’s 1979 Topps rookie takes the enviable #1 slot in the set. By this time, Brett had broken out in a big way for the Kansas City Royals and was emerging as the best all-around third baseman in baseball. With such an iconic look for a five-tool superstar, the card has exploded in value to $2800-3000 graded mint, due to his three batting title seasons in the 70s alone.
#636 Rickey Henderson (A’s)
The greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer in MLB history, Rickey Henderson made his Topps rookie card debut in 1979 with the Oakland A’s after being called up late that season. Already showcasing his electrifying speed and skills, the card is one of the most identifiable in the set. Plus, Henderson’s demeanor perfectly captures his confidence and charisma. With all those contributions to his legend status, a pristine PSA 10 copy will sell for north of $3,500 today, making it the most valuable 1979 Topps issue.
While the entire 1979 Topps run contains many influential players and memorable rookie cards, it’s easy to see why icons like Brett, Henderson, Morgan, Boggs, and Ryan own the top spots in card value based on their transcendent careers. Featuring the stars of the late 70s and impending superstars of the 80s, the quality and significance of this classic baseball issue has kept it intensely popular with collectors for over 40 years. With so many all-time greats represented, select 1979 Topps cards in top condition will remain highly coveted pieces of memorabilia for years to come.
