The 1989 Topps baseball card set was released at the tail end of the “junk wax” era, a period from the mid-1980s through the early 1990s where an overabundance of mass produced cards led to plummeting single card values. Even amidst this era, the 1989 Topps set contained several scarce and valuable cards that have increased in worth over the decades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key rare and valuable pieces from the 1989 Topps collection.
Perhaps the most famous rare card from 1989 Topps is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the most iconic rookie cards of all time, the Griffey Jr. was packed extremely sparsely in 1989 packs, with BGS estimating the print run at around 1 per wax box. In high grade, this coveted rookie currently sells for thousands of dollars. Another mega-valuable rookie is the Gregg Jefferies card. Jefferies was one of baseball’s top prospects in 1988 and his Topps rookie has strong demand due to its sharp, eye-catching design paired with the player’s great potential that went somewhat unfulfilled. Low pop and a beautifully centered ’89 Jefferies can fetch four figures.
Condition sensitive cards like error and variation cards tend to be quite valuable from ’89 Topps as well. The Mark McGwire error card, featuring an upside-down photo, is a major hit in flawless condition. Likewise, the Ozzie Smith error with “Ozzie Smith, Art” on the back instead of stats holds great sum for the meticulous collector. In terms of variations, the reverse negative parallel foil boards of players like Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, and Rickey Henderson have committed followings. The negative foil boards are considered the rarest parallels from the set and can sell for well over $100 in pristine shape.
Rookies and big name stars tend to lead the way in terms of demand and dollar amounts, but prospects, stars of the day, and players from winning teams also attract premium 1989 Topps prices. For example, the cards of stud prospects like Sandy Alomar Jr., Chuck Carr, and Ben McDonald hold appeal. Likewise, cards of hot ’80s talents like Dwight Gooden, Kirby Puckett, and Eric Davis remain highly collected. On the team front, cards of stars from the formidable Oakland A’s ’89 championship squad like Jose Canseco, Dave Stewart, and Dennis Eckersley pull extra value.
Of course, no discussion of valuable 1989 Topps cards would be complete without recognizing the true blue chip RCs and legendary talents like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Frank Thomas. In pristine condition, these cards frequently sell for hundreds or even over $1000. What’s more, the flagship set’s true short prints from which statistical data is still emerging – like the Kirby Puckett SP and Jack Morris SP – have the potential to eventually rise to four figure valuation as they become fully defined.
When considering all the factors, from rookie star power, to rare production variations, prospects, and team ties, it’s clear the 1989 Topps set holds tremendous nostalgia and appeal for collectors even after over thirty years since release. While the overall junk wax malaise makes most common ’89s fairly affordable, the true condition sensitive rare cards have shown resilience and remain highly sought. For discerning vintage enthusiasts, 1989 Topps Long-Term holds offer much to appreciate and study for years to come.
While the 1989 Topps baseball card set was produced during the massive ‘junk wax’ era, it still contains several notable scarce and valuable pieces decades later. Rookie stars like Ken Griffey Jr as well as error, variation, prospect, and star/team dynamic cards all merit premium dollars today. With beautiful designs, compelling photography, and documented rarity, the top tier heroes from the ’89 Topps collection will likely endure as prized keepsakes and sound long term investments.
