The 1991 Score Baseball Card Set
The 1991 Score baseball card set was issued at the height of the junk wax era and was one of the most mass produced sets of the time period. Unlike modern sets though, the 1991 Score cards have endured and still maintain collector interest today due to the players and designs featured. Let’s take a deeper look at the set and provide a price guide for the top rookie cards and stars of the day that are still sought after nearly 30 years later.
The 1991 Score set contains 792 total cards issued in wax packs, rack packs, and hobby boxes. The design features larger than normal size cards measuring about 3.5 x 2.5 inches. On the front is a colorful team color team logo in the top left with the player’s picture taking up the majority of the card space. Player names are printed in yellow across the top with their position, team, and statistics on the bottom. The backs have a yellow and gray designed with career stats and a small career recap. Roster cards and managers/coaches are also included throughout the set.
Top Rookie Cards:
Ken Griffey Jr. (Mariners) – Considered one of the best prospects ever, Griffey’s rookie is the crown jewel of the set. In gem mint 10 condition, it now fetches $800-1000. Even well-centered excellent condition 8’s can bring $200-300.
Chipper Jones (Braves) – The future Hall of Famer’s first card is the second most coveted of the rookie class. A PSA 10 is $500-700 while an 8 is $150-250.
Rodrigo Palmeiro (Cubs) – Younger brother of Rafael, his career didn’t pan out but the name recognition makes it a popular PC card. PSA 10’s go for $200-300, 8’s bring $75-125.
Jason Kendall (Pirates) – The long-time catcher had decent pop as a rookie. His card in top shape sells in the $150-250 range for a 10, $50-100 for an 8.
Ray Durham (White Sox) – Overshadowed by others but still valuable as Durham had a long, productive career. PSA 10’s sell for $100-150, 8’s trade hands around $40-75.
Ben McDonald (Orioles) – Highly touted arm that never fully reached potential but first card has nostalgia. A PSA 10 could get $75-125 while 8’s go for $30-50.
Stars of the Day:
Barry Bonds (Pirates) – Already emerging as one of the game’s best. PSA 10 in the $100-150 range, 8’s around $40-75.
Jose Canseco (A’s) – Coming off 40/40 season in ’88. PSA 10’s go for $75-125, Excellent 8’s around $30-50.
Nolan Ryan (Rangers) – End of a legendary career but nostalgia runs high. Near Mint to Mint 8’s around $25-40.
Cal Ripken Jr. (Orioles) – Fresh off breaking Gehrig’s consecutive games record. PSA 10’s range from $75-125, 8’s $30-50.
Dave Stewart (A’s) – Star pitcher on the dominant A’s staff of the era. PSA 8’s around $15-25.
Ozzie Smith (Cardinals) – Future Hall of Famer still dazzling defensively at short. 8’s sell for $15-25.
Don Mattingly (Yankees) – Perennial batting champ entering his prime. 8’s trade hands around $10-15.
As you can see, the 1991 Score set has a wide range of star-studded cards that maintain interest and value because of the iconic players featured from that time period in MLB history. While production numbers were massive, the design, photography quality, and talented rosters captured ensure this junk wax era release stands out in the hobby. Whether seeking out your PC guys, future Hall of Famers, or high-end grade rookie gems – the 1991 Score cards deliver fun and affordability for collectors decades later.
