The 1989 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and collectible issues from the late 1980s. With 792 total cards in the base set, the ’89 Topps release contains several key rookie cards and stars of the era that continue to hold value among collectors decades later. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1989 Topps baseball cards to keep an eye out for.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered one of the most desirable rookie cards in the hobby, the Ken Griffey Jr. RC from 1989 Topps is a must-have for any collection. Griffey emerged as a rookie sensation for the Seattle Mariners in 1989, winning AL Rookie of the Year honors and displaying the skills that would make him a future Hall of Famer. In high grade, the Griffey rookie routinely sells for well over $1,000 and is one of the most valuable modern-era cards on the market. Even in low-end condition, it remains quite collectible and holds substantial monetary worth.
Barry Bonds Rookie Card: Like Griffey, Barry Bonds established himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars in 1989 and his rookie card from this set is a significant find. Bonds won the NL Rookie of the Year and NL MVP awards in 1990 to kick off what became a legendary career. Condition is key for the Bonds rookie, as pristine copies can reach the $3,000-$5,000 range. But even well-worn examples still carry value north of $100 due to his all-time great status.
Greg Maddux: As one of the most distinguished pitchers of his generation, winning four CY Young awards and355 career victories, Greg Maddux cards from his early Chicago Cubs tenure hold appeal. His ’89 Topps card shows him at age 22, on the cusp of blossoming into a superstar. High-grade versions can sell between $200-$500.
Rickey Henderson: The lone card of dynamic Oakland A’s leadoff hitter and base-stealing master Rickey Henderson has maintained popularity since 1989. As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner ever, Henderson’s on-card accomplishments listed make this a significant issue to own. Expect to pay $50-plus even for low-end copies.
Nolan Ryan Express Issue: Topps issued a special Nolan Ryan “Express” card separate from the base set that highlights different moments from his illustrious career. As baseball’s all-time strikeout king with 7 no-hitters, anything related to Ryan remains widely collected. High-grade Express issues can bring $100+.
Ken Phelps Traded Set Card: This traded set inclusion shows Ken Phelps as a Seattle Mariner, though he was actually traded to the Mets later in 1989 for Starlin Castro in an infamous blockbuster deal. The bizarre trade lore surrounding this swap adds an aspect of interest for collectors. Pricing ranges based on condition from $20-150.
Dwight Gooden: Prior to injuries derailing his career, Dwight Gooden was among the most electrifying pitchers in baseball through the late 1980s as ace of the New York Mets staff. His ’89 Topps issue reminds of “Doc’s” dominance before personal troubles. Mid-range condition copies still trade for $15-30.
Ozzie Smith Back Issue: Considered one of the finest defensive shortstops ever, Ozzie Smith was a mainstay in St. Louis throughout the 1980s. His acrobatic plays made him a fan-favorite, immortalized on his 1989 Topps card. High-Quality versions command $75+.
Don Mattingly: As captain of the New York Yankees Dynasty teams, slugging first baseman Don Mattingly was one of the biggest stars in baseball during his mid-1980s peak. His ’89 card remains a standout issue due to his name recognition and on-field accomplishments shown on the back. Expect to pay $10-25 depending on condition.
Bobby Thigpen Record Breaker Card: Chicago White Sox reliever Bobby Thigpen shattered the single-season saves record in 1990 with 57, highlighted on this ’89 Topps update issue. Preservation of records and a player’s one big season hold appeal, so Thigpen cards carry significance. Mid-range grades average $15-30.
Besides the key rookie cards and stars, set-filler commons from the 1989 Topps baseball issue often sell in the $1-5 range regardless of condition. Even beat-up copies can find buyers due to the set’s popularity. For breakers of unopened wax packs and boxes, there are several big hits that could yield huge returns such as a Gem Mint Griffey or Bonds rookie. Three decades after their release, cards from the ’89 Topps set remain major drivers in the vintage trading card market. With proven track records of appreciation, they make for great long-term collecting opportunities.
