The 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards promotion was innovative and produced some fun collectibles that are still prized by collectors today. Kellogg’s issued a complete set of eighty 3D baseball cards that year as part of a cereal box promotion. The cards featured raised 3D images on the front similar to today’s lenticular cards. The backs provided stats and bios for each player. Some key things to know about the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards and their value:
The original promotion in 1979 made completing the full 80-card set fairly easy since Kellogg’s cereal boxes included multiple cards. The raised 3D images were a novel concept at the time that generated interest. While they were only intended to be a kids’ marketing gimmick by Kellogg’s, the unique 3D technology and baseball collectibles aspect ensured they had lasting appeal. Not all the cards held up perfectly either, as the thin plastic film covering the 3D layers could wrinkle or peel off over time depending on how the cards were stored and handled. This led to the development of varying condition grades that are important valuation factors today.
When it comes to pricing, the condition and completeness of a 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Card set is crucial. Loose or individual cards in poor condition may sell for just a few dollars each. Graded gem mint (or higher) samples of particularly key cards can reach into the hundreds. A complete set in top near mint-mint condition would likely fetch $300-500. Extremely well-preserved qualitative gem mint sets could potentially sell for $700-1000 or more if all the elements are there.
Some notable advantages of the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D issue that tend to maintain or increase their value include:
Only one year of issue, so they have maintained scarcity and recognition as one of the earliest mainstream sports card promotions.
Highly innovative 3D display element made them very popular and unique for their time. This collectors’ appeal has persisted.
Licensed MLB product with legitimate sports stars, not generic or artificial players. Features all teams of the era.
Complete, 80-card roster set is neatly contained and readily displayable/tradeable.
Individually, the most valuable 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards tend to be the more prominent Hall of Fame players, especially in top grades. Examples include:
Nolan Ryan – Often the top card in a graded set. Can reach $50-75 in NM-MT or above.
George Brett – Consistently one of the most popular ‘70s-‘80s Royals. $30-45 range.
Reggie Jackson – ‘Mr. October’s’ star power keeps values high at $25-40.
Mike Schmidt – Perennial MVP contender in the ’70s and Hall of Famer. Steadily $25-35.
Rookies are also keenly sought after by collectors:
Cal Ripken Jr. – In demand as a future Hall of Famer starting his career. Seen around $15-25.
Ozzie Smith – ‘The Wizard’ just starting to build his rep. Comparable rates to Ripken.
Don Mattingly – Rookie of then-Yankee first baseman is valued near $10-15 usually.
Not every card holds the same value, but most common players in topped graded condition are in the $5-10 range. And lessor stars may sell for just $2-5. A key is finding comparable sales data to determine pricing accurately based on player, grade, condition, and completeness of any collection.
While a marketing promotion at the time, the 1979 Kellogg’s 3D Baseball Cards have developed a loyal collectibles fanbase due to their innovative display element and sports connection. For dedicated collectors, full sets maintain a consistent mid-range value outlook. But condition is paramount, and the top rookies or stars can always command premium rates. After over 40 years, they remain a unique and fun piece of cardboard collectibles history for those who enjoyed them as kids or admire the vintage sports card era. With care, a quality 1979 Kellogg’s 3D set retains solid value potential long-term.
