The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and sought after issues from the 1970s. Packed with future Hall of Famers and rookie cards of stars, the set captures a special time in the sport. With 792 total cards issued, the 1979 Topps set always generates substantial interest from collectors both young and old. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top cards and their potential values today.
One of the true gems of the set is the rookie card of Hall of Fame starting pitcher Dave Stewart. As the ace of the Oakland A’s pitching staff throughout much of the 1980s, Stewart went on to capture three World Series rings and win 20 games in a season twice. His rookie card found in the 1979 Topps set remains one of his most coveted. In near mint condition, examples of Stewart’s rookie card can sell for $150-200. If received a gem mint grade of 10, it could be worth over $500.
Another star pitcher with a highly sought after rookie in the 1979 set is Nolan Ryan. Arguably the greatest strikeout pitcher in MLB history, Ryan’s express train fastball made him a fan favorite for decades. His Topps rookie shows him seated with an intense stare wearing a California Angels uniform. Even well-worn copies in probably condition sell for around $30-50. But a pristine mint rookie could be valued at $500 or more. Considering Ryan’s legendary career, this card remains a must-have for any collector.
While Ryan and Stewart had Hall of Fame careers, the 1979 Topps set also included rookie cards for some stars whose potential wasn’t fully realized. One example is outfielder Dwight Evans, known as “Dewey” to Red Sox fans. As a five-tool player, Evans wound up having a solid 19 year career mostly with Boston. His rookie card is still relatively affordable compared to bigger names from the set. Near mint copies can usually be acquired for $15-20.
Speaking of the Red Sox, their legendary left-handed pitcher Roger Clemens has a coveted rookie in the 1979 issue. Though just a few years into his MLB tenure at that point, Clemens would go on to capture 7 Cy Young Awards and pitch into his 40s. High grade copies of his first Topps card in a Boston uniform have sold for over $150 in recent years. Low mint copies still hold value around $50-75 based on his iconic career.
While stars on winning teams tend to have the most valuable rookie cards, the 1979 Topps set also included future talent that never achieved team success. A good example is Chicago Cubs third baseman Ron Cey. A five-time All-Star who played primarily for the Dodgers early in his career, Cey had good power and consistency at the plate. But he never made the postseason. As a result, his Topps rookie sells for a more affordable $10-15 range even in top condition.
Two players whose potential was cut short also have moderately valued rookie cards from 1979 Topps. Pitchers Jon Matlack of the Mets and Don Stanhouse of the Expos showed promise early but suffered injuries. Matlack’s first card can be acquired for around $5-10. Stanhouse’s sells in the $3-8 range depending on condition. They serve as a reminder that longevity and team achievements drive the true blue chip cards prices higher in the long run.
On the team level, the 1979 Topps set captured the Baltimore Orioles’ roster during their heyday in the late 1970s. Led by future Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson in his final season, the O’s won the 1979 World Series. As a result, their team cards from that set hold value. A near mint complete team set could sell for over $150. Individual players like Eddie Murray, Jim Palmer and Ken Singleton can each be found for $5-15 depending on grade.
The 1979 issuance also commemorated the Pittsburgh Pirates winning their fourth World Series title in the 1970s. Superstars like Willie Stargell, Dave Parker and Bill Madlock made up the core of that championship club. A complete team set has sold for up to $125 in mint condition. Stargell on his own can fetch $15-30 a copy depending on centering and corners based on “Pops” being a key cog in their dynasty run.
The 1979 Topps baseball card set remains a highly collectible issue over 40 years later. Filled with young stars and seasoned veterans, its cards captured a great era in baseball. Rookies of all-time greats like Nolan Ryan and the career performances of future Hall of Famers make it an iconic release. Whether pursuing team sets, individual players or young prospects, 1979 Topps always generates nostalgia and interest among vintage collectors. With so much talent featured throughout, it’s easy to understand why values hold up so strongly even after four decades.
