The 1990 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the late 80s and early 90s. While not quite as sought after as some earlier sets from the peak of the baseball card boom, there are still quite a few high-priced gems to be found within the 660-card checklist from 1990 Topps. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most expensive 1990 Topps cards that fetch big money for enthusiastic collectors and investors.
Perhaps the most acclaimed rookie card from the 1990 set is Ken Griffey Jr’s card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was already showing star potential in his rookie season with Oakland. His vibrant smile and athletic swing translated perfectly onto the card as well. In near mint condition, a Griffey Jr 1990 rookie card can fetch upwards of $500-600. In pristine mint condition, specimens have sold for well over $1,000. The card remains one of the most iconic and desirable rookie cards from the modern era.
Another tremendous hitter who had a hugely successful career was Frank Thomas. His rookie card from the 1990 Topps set, card number 634, is highly sought after by collectors. Like Griffey, Thomas was very productive right out of the gate. In gem mint condition, his rookie typically sells in the $300-$500 range. Higher grades that are virtually flawless can exceed $750. Thomas went on to dominate for many years and win multiple MVP awards, making this one of the better long term investments from the set.
Pitching prospect Ben McDonald, taken first overall by the Baltimore Orioles in the 1989 MLB Draft, had a very promising rookie season in 1990. As a result, his rookie card from that year’s Topps set is highly valuable in top condition. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, considered the pinnacle status for a card, a Ben McDonald rookie recently sold for well over $2,000. Even in a 9.5 Near Mint condition it can go for $400-$600. The scarcity and allure of a #1 pick rookie always drives up value.
Another arm that ended up having a distinguished career was Juan Guzman, who pitched for multiple playoff teams in the 1990s like Toronto and Philadelphia. His rookie card is found in the lower half of the set at #623. In mint condition it can fetch $150-$250 depending on the exact grade. Higher end gem mint specimens have cracked the $400 mark before. Guzman’s longevity and postseason success keeps this rookie card relevant decades after its issue date in 1990 Topps.
While not attaining the heights that were perhaps expected, Todd Van Poppel’s raw stuff and pedigree as the 14th overall pick made for an enticing prospect. His rookie card from 1990 Topps, listing him as property of the Oakland A’s, is a hot ticket for enthusiasts of young pitching prospects. Even in well-worn condition it can sell for $50-75. But in pristine mint grades upwards of $300-400 seems within reach for this intriguing rookie of a lesser-known arm.
Another noteworthy rookie pitcher is Dennis Cook of the Cincinnati Reds. Taken in the second round of the 1988 draft, Cook made a seamless jump from high school to the majors by age 19. That youth and potential transferred nicely to his 1990 Topps rookie card, found at #421. In gem mint to pristine mint grades, this eye-catching issue can net $125-250 depending on exact condition specifics. The allure of a teenage phenom who made the Show draws interest from collectors even after three decades since issue.
The 1990 Topps set reflects the peaks of both player value and baseball card collecting from that late 80s/early 90s tail end of the “junk wax” era that preceded the industry collapse. While production numbers were huge, top rookies from stars like Griffey, Frank Thomas, and prospects like Ben McDonald retain immense pulling power. For those wanting premium examples of the players, teams, and card designs from that timeframe, 1990 Topps endures as a must-have set for enthusiasts. With the right singles in pristine condition, big money still flows for these cardboard pieces of our nation’s pastime from over 30 years ago.
