The 1993 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was noteworthy for capturing rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Vladimir Guerrero, Jim Thome, and Mo Vaughn in their early MLB seasons. While the set overall doesn’t command exceptionally high prices, there are several standout cards that hold significant monetary value for collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the key 1993 Fleer Ultra rookie and star player cards that are worth pursuing.
Perhaps the most valuable card from the 1993 Fleer Ultra set is the Vladimir Guerrero rookie card. Guerrero went on to have a Hall of Fame career that spanned 16 seasons with the Expos, Angels, and Rangers. With his prodigious power and skill in right field, Guerrero was among the best players of his generation. His rookie remains highly sought after by collectors and has increased steadily in secondary market value over time. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples routinely sell for well over $1,000, with lower graded copies still demanding $150-300.
Another prized rookie is the Jim Thome card. Thome blasted 612 home runs over 22 big league seasons and was a five-time All-Star for the Indians, Phillies and Twins. He remains one of the most prolific power hitters of all-time. High-grade Thome rookies in PSA 10 condition have sold for $500-600, with PSA 9s and lower grades in the $100-300 range depending on centering and condition specifics.
Mo Vaughn’s rookie is also a strong option given his outstanding career and 1997 AL MVP award. Vaughn smashed 244 home runs and drove in 900 runs for the Red Sox and Mets from 1991-2003. PSA 10 Vaughn rookies have sold for as much as $350, with most PSA 9s and lower grade copies bringing $75-150 on the vintage baseball card market.
In addition to the Vladimir Guerrero, Jim Thome and Mo Vaughn rookies, there are a few star veterans cards that hold notable value from 1993 Fleer Ultra as well. For instance, the Ken Griffey Jr. card is a must-have for fans of “The Kid.” Griffey went on to shatter rookie records and is considered one of the most exciting five-tool players ever. High-grade Griffey commons from this set sell for $30-70.
Another offensive machine, Frank Thomas also has a valuable card from 1993 Fleer Ultra. “The Big Hurt” won back-to-back MVPs in 1993-1994 and racked up 501 home runs and 1,704 RBI over 19 seasons. Well-centered PSA 10 Frank Thomas cards have sold upwards of $150. PSA 9s and lower grades typically sell in the $30-75 range on eBay and auction sites.
Pitchers aren’t left out either. The Greg Maddux card gained prominence as the hurler emerged as one of the top right-handed starters ever during his 23-year MLB tenure, winning four Cy Young awards with the Cubs and Braves. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for over $100, with most PSA 9 Maddux’s selling in the $30-60 range depending on the market.
The Rickey Henderson Fleer Ultra card holds long-term appeal as the speedster racked up 3,055 hits and 1,406 stolen bases across 25 MLB campaigns. Widely considered one of the greatest leadoff men and all-around players, PSA 10 Hendersons command $60-100. Most graded PSA 9s and lower grade copies trade hands for $25-50.
As with most sets outside the mega-money rookie classes of 1987-1991, condition is paramount for 1993 Fleer Ultra. Many of the Guerrero, Thome and Vaughn rookies have been slabbed PSA 10 over the years, elevating their values substantially. Overall set building isn’t as profitable as during the junk wax era of the late 1980s. Savvy collectors seeking Hall of Fame rookie cards and stars of the 1990s can still gain from strategic 1993 Ultra singles investments graded PSA 9 and above when prices are reasonable. With solid research and patience, discerning hobbyists stand to appreciate returns on these attainable vintage cards in the years ahead.
While not every card from the 1993 Fleer Ultra baseball set holds big monetary value, there are definite opportunities to be had by targeting superstar rookies and star veterans like Vladimir Guerrero, Jim Thome, Mo Vaughn, Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, and Rickey Henderson – especially in pristine PSA 10 or 9 condition. For collectors not chasing complete sets, smart singles selections offer worthwhile long-term potential.
