The 1993 Fleer Ultra baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the Junk Wax Era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While many of the cards in the set are not particularly rare, there are several standout rookies and stars that have maintained or increased in value over the past few decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key 1993 Fleer Ultra cards that could be worth money for collectors today.
One of the most notable rookies from the 1993 Fleer Ultra set is Ken Griffey Jr. As one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was already a star by 1993 and his rookie card is hugely sought after by collectors. PSA 10 graded versions of Griffey’s Ultra rookie have sold for over $5,000 in recent years. Even well-kept raw copies in Excellent or Near Mint condition can fetch $100-200. With Griffey’s popularity and legend continuing to grow after retirement, his 1993 Ultra RC remains one of the most iconic and collectible cards from the 1990s.
Another star rookie from 1993 Fleer Ultra is Felipe Alou. As the son of baseball legend Felipe Alou Sr., there was hype around Alou coming into the majors. His Ultra rookie has sustained strong demand and value over time. PSA 10 copies can sell for $500-1000 while raw Near Mint copies go for $50-150 depending on the seller. For Alou collectors, this is one of the prized possessions from his playing days. Vladimir Guerrero also had his rookie season in 1993 but don’t expect huge profits from his Ultra RC as it remains quite common.
On the star veteran side, cards of Barry Bonds have held up remarkably well given his tarnished reputation towards the end of his career. A PSA 10 1993 Fleer Ultra Bonds can reach over $1000. Even well-kept raw copies in the Excellent-Mint range bring $30-80. Mark McGwire also remains a popular 90s star and his Ultra Update & Traded subset cards have gained value since the home run chase era. Pristine PSA 10 McGwire Update & Traded cards can sell for $300-500.
Derek Jeter had his rookie season in 1993 but don’t expect to get rich quick from his Ultra rookie. It remains one of the most printed and distributed cards ever. An ultra-high graded PSA 10 Jeter RC could still net $1000-1500 in today’s market. For average raw copies in good shape, you’re looking at $5-15 depending on condition. The supply is endless for Jeter’s 1993 Ultra but perfectionists will pay up for mint 10s.
1993 Ultra also marked the rookie cards of Garret Anderson, Troy Neel, Mike Piazza, and Raul Mondesi. Piazza has the most valuable rookie of this group with a PSA 10 recently selling for just under $2000. Near Mint raw Piazza RCs go for $30-80. Mondesi and Anderson rookies can fetch $10-30 graded PSA/BGS 9-10 or $3-10 raw depending on condition. Neel remains one of the most bulk bin riffling cards out there.
In terms of star veterans, cards of Barry Larkin, Craig Biggio, and Tom Glavine remain popular for collectors. A PSA 10 Larkin sold for over $400 recently. Near Mint Biggio and Glavine raw copies can sell in the $10-30 range. Mark Grace and Cal Ripken Jr are also names that sustain value in high grades or well-kept raw condition. While not as hyped as baseball’s true superstars, these Hall of Fame calibre players yield steady collector demand.
Of course, there are also star rookie and prospect cards that have plummeted in value like Billy Ripken’s infamous “Fuck Face” error card. Once a six figure card, you can find them relatively cheaply today. Other big name bust prospects like Paul Wilson and Todd Van Poppel don’t carry much weight either. 1993 Ultra remains a fun and collectible set but don’t go chasing unrealistic get rich cards – focus on the true icons like Junior, McGwire, Ripken if seeking profit.
While there are many commons from 1993 Fleer Ultra, the stars of Ken Griffey Jr, Felipe Alou, Barry Bonds, Mike Piazza, and high graded Derek Jeter rookies maintain relevance and collectibility today. With the 1993 design being so iconic of the early 90s era,cards of these players are sure to sustain demand for years to come. For collectors, it’s always worth keeping an eye out for well-kept copies of the top names from that seminal set at card shows and online marketplaces. With patience and a little luck, you could uncover a financially rewarding gem from the junk wax days.
