The 1988 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and sought after complete sets among collectors. With 702 total cards in the base set including traded players, managers, and checklists, finding a 1988 Topps complete set in pristine mint condition can be a rewarding chase. Let’s take a deeper look at everything collectors need to know about buying a 1988 Topps complete set on eBay.
1988 was a historic year for baseball cards as it was the last year Topps held the exclusive license to produce baseball cards before competition from other card companies like Fleer and Score arose. With no competition driving down print runs, 1988 Topps cards are not as scarce as some other vintage sets. Demand remains high due to the nostalgia of late 80s designs and the star rookies featured like Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire.
Condition is absolutely paramount when evaluating a 1988 Topps complete set on eBay. With over 700 cards to scrutinize for centering, edge wear, creases or stains, it’s unlikely to find a true gem mint set. Paying top dollar usually demands cards that are sharp, no flaws noticeable from the front. Backs can have slight flaws but nothing detracting from centering and corners. Since these were produced for kids to collect and play with, true pristine condition is exceptionally rare to find.
A key factor is whether the set is intact, including all documented variations and short prints. The main short prints to watch for are Manager Billy Martin (#351), Manager Earl Weaver (#352) and Manager Dick Williams (#353). Other notable subsets are Glossy All-Stars (#1-20), Team Leaders (#21-74), League Leaders (#75-98) and Record Breakers (#99-110). Checklists in varying design and language variants help validate a true complete set. Also look for annual Team cards, Stadium cards, Manager cards and Traded sets to be accounted for.
Authentication is important, especially at higher price points. Reputable third party grading like PSA or BGS adds legitimacy, protecting against fakes, rebacks or substitutions. Even raw, ungraded sets on eBay deserve scrutiny of authentic cards through close-up photos of variations, serial numbers and statistical accuracy on the back. Ask sellers for additional photos beyond what’s provided to verify the set integrity yourself.
Pricing varies greatly depending on condition, but an average well-kept 1988 Topps complete base set in raw form usually sells between $1,000-2,000. Top graded PSA/BGS gem mint sets have been known to fetch over $10,000 when a true condition census piece surfaces. Be wary of low prices that seem too good to be true, as condition claims often fall short. Take time researching recent sold prices through eBay’s “Sold Listings” function to find fair market value.
Lastly, consider post-sale options like authentication and grading. Any issues found post-purchase may hurt resale potential down the road. Discuss with sellers their return/refund policies just in case a full verification uncovers any fall short of a true complete set. Top graded 1988 Topps sets hold immense long-term collector value, so pursuing condition at the expense of price is worth the patience to find an pristine example.
In conclusion, 1988 Topps baseball cards remain a pinnacle set for vintage collectors. With significant stars, designs and history behind its production, a valuable complete 702-card set is a prize acquisition. Thoroughly vet listings on eBay through close inspection of photos and a seller’s feedback. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Let condition, completeness and verification guide your purchase decision to land an prime example of this iconic 1980s release. With care, a true mint 1988 Topps set promises to retain and grow in value for decades of collecting enjoyment.
