The 1978 Topps baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the better and more valuable sets from the 1970s. While it does not contain any true superstar rookie cards, there are several cards that have appreciated well over the years and can be worth significant money in high grades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key 1978 Topps cards that have proven to retain and gain value.
One of the most valuable regular issue cards from the 1978 set is the Nolan Ryan card (#501). Ryan was already establishing himself as one of the game’s elite pitchers and strikeout kings by 1978 with the Angels. While not a rookie card, his iconic angular photo and monster stats resulted in high demand. High graded examples of his ’78 Topps card in mint condition can fetch $100-150. An absolutely pristine gem mint 10 copy might command $300-500 given how few survived in that condition across 44 years of circulation.
Steve Garvey (#481) also remains a sought-after regular from the ’78 set. As the leader of the Dodgers championship teams, Garvey was a true fan favorite. Even after leaving LA, his card retained popularity. Near mint to mint 8s go for $50-75, while a 10 could reach $150-250 depending on market demand. His clean cut looks and high batting stats no doubt contributed to the long term appeal.
While not the biggest star on the Red Sox at the time, Jim Rice (#677) has surprisingly emerged as one of the strongest gainers from this set. Known as “The Lion” for his gritty play, Rice slammed a league leading 46 home runs in his breakout 1978 season. High graded versions of his card in the 8.5-9 range currently sell between $75-100. Mint condition copies in the pristine 9.5-10 realm can command up to $250 depending on the exact centering, corners and edges. Rice’s dominance in the late 1970s seems to be driving renewed collector interest in his rookie card.
Turning to the rookie cards from 1978 Topps, Donettes (#550) is considered the most valuable. While he did not stick in the majors long term, his was one of the more highly anticipated rookie introductions that year. Near mint to mint 8 examples can sell for $50-75, with a true gem mint 10 potentially reaching $150-250 for the right buyer. Few rookies from the set besides his have proven to retain consistent interest over the long haul.
Another useful rookie from the set is Bruce Sutter’s (#522). As a premier reliever and one of the first true “closers”, Sutter found great success in the late 1970s and 1980s. Near mint copies of his rookie in the 8-8.5 range are priced around $50-75. Higher graded mint 9s climb to the $75-100 territory. The control specialist would go on to become the first purely relief pitcher inducted into the Hall of Fame, giving his ’78 card fond memories for collectors.
While not the most valuable, a few other noteworthy rookies from the 1978 set that can earn money based on condition include Jim Sundberg (#651) of the Rangers behind the plate, outfielders Dave Kingman (#609) of the Mets and Cecil Cooper (#537) of the Brewers among others. Near mint 7s of these can often exchange hands between $25-40 depending on the individual player demand.
Beyond the star regulars and quality rookies, there are also a handful of lesser known short print cards that can carry a premium. Perhaps the most desired is Dwight Bernard’s (#689) which is scarce in high grades. Near mint 8s tend to be priced between $75-100 for this short printed Rangers outfielder card.
While not containing any true icon rookie cards, the 1978 Topps set remains a solid long term investment option given the star power and performance of regulars like Ryan, Garvey and Rice along with valued rookie introductions such as Sutter and Donettes. Condition is absolutely critical to maximizing returns, with the finest gem mint 10 specimens capable of earning real money against the right collectors four plus decades later. For those willing to carefully curate top graded examples, the 1978 Topps baseball issues can provide staying power and appreciation.
