The 1990 Bowman set is considered one of the most iconic baseball card releases of all time. Featuring young stars and future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Billy Wagner, these cards hold significant nostalgia and collectors value even decades later. Here are the 10 most valuable and sought after rookie and star cards from the 1990 Bowman set based on PSA 10 Gem Mint prices:

Chipper Jones rookie card – Often cited as the crown jewel of the 1990 Bowman set is the Chipper Jones rookie card. As one of the greatest third basemen of all time, Jones went on to have a Hall of Fame career spending his entire 19 year career with the Atlanta Braves. His rookie card has always been highly coveted by collectors and consistently sells in the thousands of dollars even in lower grades. A PSA 10 mint example recently sold for an incredible $36,150 making it easily the most valuable card in the set.

Frank Thomas rookie card – Another card featuring an all-time great, the Frank Thomas rookie is the second most valuable from 1990 Bowman. Like Chipper Jones, Thomas had a truly remarkable career playing for the Chicago White Sox winning two MVP awards. In a PSA 10 gem mint condition, his rookie card recently sold for $11,640. Still a fantastic card to own in any grade for fans of “The Big Hurt.”

Kenny Lofton rookie card – Kenny Lofton didn’t quite reach the heights of Jones or Thomas but he was still an excellent player winning six Gold Gloves in center field over his 17 year career. His speed and defense made him a constant threat on the bases. While not in the same tier historically as the previous two, Lofton’s rookie remains very popular selling for $3,840 in top PSA 10 shape.

Bobby Bonilla rookie card – Bobby “Bobby Bonilla Day” Bonilla played in the major leagues for 16 seasons including stints with the Pirates, Mets, and Marlins. Known for his power and ability to get on base, Bonilla had considerable success throughout his career. his 1990 Bowman rookie card recently sold at auction for $2,880 which is quite high considering Bonilla wasn’t usually thought of as a true superstar. Strong nostalgia and name recognition keeps this card’s price buoyant.

Andy Benes rookie card – Andy Benes was never an elite starter but he did have solid career pitching in the majors for 15 years and making an All-Star team in 1996 with the Cardinals. He boasted pinpoint control walking just 1.3 batters per 9 innings for his career. For a decent but not legendary hurler, his rookie from 1990 Bowman garners respectable $2.400 in top condition.

Billy Ripken “F*** Face” error card – Okay so it’s not really a card featuring a baseball player per se but the infamous Billy Ripken “F*** Face” error card remains iconic and highly sought after by collectors for its infamy alone. The image shows Ripken with the vulgarity written on his bat during a spring training photo and somehow made it into actual production packs in 1990 Bowman. In Gem Mint condition, examples have sold in the four figures range which is astronomical for a backup infielder like Ripken. Its notoriety drives prices sky high.

Jim Abbott rookie card – Jim Abbott was born without a right hand but that didn’t stop him from having a 10 year MLB career predominantly with the California Angels. Throwing a no-hitter in 1993, Abbott inspired many with his athletic abilities and perseverance in the face of adversity. His rookie card typically trades hands for around $1,500 in top shape reflecting his inspirational story.

Jeff Bagwell rookie card – Jeff Bagwell went on to have a stellar career starring at first base for the Houston Astros including a rookie of the year award, 4 batting titles, and over 400 home runs. While not his most valuable as a rookie, his 1990 Bowman card still earns about $1,400 in a PSA 10 due to Bagwell’s strong longevity and popularity in Houston.

Billy Wagner rookie card – Billy Wagner was an elite closer for many years, leading the NL in saves twice. His rookie card found in 1990 Bowman hasn’t reached the heights of some other names on this list but still holds respectable $1,200 value for such an essential specialty reliever role.

Charles Johnson rookie card – Catcher Charles Johnson had decent 12 year MLB tenure including a couple of Gold Gloves and All-Star appearances. Not a true superstar but strong defense kept him employed for over a decade. His rookie in this set trades hands for about $900 still making it a worthy pickup for Jacksonville area fans and Orioles collectors on a budget.

The 1990 Bowman baseball set endures as one of the most storied releases ever due to the star power and future Hall of Famers featured as rookies within. Over 30 years later, select cards still command premium prices befitting their immense nostalgia and prominence in the archives of many lifelong collectors. While out of reach financially except for elite investors, exploring the rich history and talented players featured makes this set a must for any fan of the vintage baseball card era.