The 1990 Donruss MVP baseball card set is considered one of the more iconic and valuable releases from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While sets from this period are not nearly as valuable as their predecessors from the 1950s-1970s, certain star rookies and Hall of Famers from the 1990 Donruss MVP set continue to hold significant collector value even 30+ years later.
The 1990 Donruss MVP set consists of 330 total cards featuring current major leaguers from that season. The photos and design of the cards have a distinct old-time baseball vibe containing simple yet stylish graphics. Each card features the player’s picture and stats from the previous season on the front, with additional career stats and a short bio on the back. The cards have a glossy finish and were produced on thick, durable cardboard stock – different than the thinner and sometimes poorer quality cards produced in later junk wax sets.
While most common cards from the set hold very modest value in the $1-5 range, there are some standouts that can fetch hundreds or even thousands in top graded gem mint condition. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most valuable 1990 Donruss MVP cards today based on recent eBay sales and industry guide price lists:
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie – Considered the crown jewel of the set. Griffey’s rookie is the most sought after junk wax era card. High grades in PSA 10 or BGS/SGC Gem Mint 10 have sold for $2,000-3,500. Lower grades in the $200-500 range.
Frank Thomas Rookie – As one of the greatest right-handed hitters ever, Frank Thomas rookie cards remain highly collectible. PSA 10 has brought $1,200-2,000 while lower gradedThomas rookies sell for $100-300.
Juan Gonzalez Rookie – Before injuries derailed his career, Juan Gonzalez was one of the game’s most feared sluggers in the 90s. His rookie in top grades has sold for $600-1,000.
Craig Biggio Rookie – Biggio spent his entire Hall of Fame worthy career with the Houston Astros. His 1990 Donruss rookie in PSA 10 condition has sold for $400-750.
Roberto Alomar Rookie – A future Hall of Famer and 12-time All-Star, Alomar established himself as one of the elite second basemen of his era. Mint graded versions of his rookie have sold in the $300-600 range.
Terry Pendleton – Pendleton’s MVP campaign of 1991 makes his 1990 card more valuable. High graded copies have sold for $150-350.
Mark McGwire – Before the steroid era, McGwire was already mashing home runs in Oakland. Mint graded copies of his 1990 card sell for $100-250.
Barry Larkin Rookie – Larkin went on to a 19-year career spent entirely with the Reds which included an MVP award in 1995. His rookie card values at $75-200 in top condition.
Randy Johnson Rookie – “The Big Unit” would become one of the most dominant pitchers ever. Early rookie cards in PSA 10 have sold upwards of $150.
Greg Maddux Rookie – Even early in his career, Maddux was establishing himself as an elite control artist. High graded copies of his rookie have sold for $75-150.
David Justice Rookie – As a member of the World Series champion Braves teams, Justice appeared poised for stardom. His rookie card retains value at $50-100 graded.
Roger Clemens – Already two years into his record-setting career, Clemens cards still hold value in the $50-100 range in top shape.
While not all 330 cards are “chrome” and valuable, dedicated 1990 Donruss MVP collectors are still on the hunt for their favorite stars in pristine condition to round out their sets. Several Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith can also be found in the set adding to its nostalgic appeal. The 1990 Donruss MVP release remains one of the most iconic sporting card sets from the vastly produced junk wax era of the late 80s/early 90s. Key star rookies continue to retain strong collector demand and solid secondary market value decades later.
