The 1996 Upper Deck baseball card set was the 12th release from Upper Deck and marked a transitional year for the hobby. After reigning as the most popular brand for many years following their debut in 1989, Upper Deck faced new competition from brands like Score and Fleer Ultra in 1996. As such, the brand mix shifted and many collectors’ interest turned to chasing new sets.

While not as desirable as some earlier years, 1996 Upper Deck still featured quality designs and photography that have stood the test of time. The set contains 363 total cards including full rosters of all 30 MLB teams at the time. Some key chase cards that still hold value include star rookie cards like Derek Jeter (#1), Chipper Jones (#35), and Nomar Garciaparra (#91).

Base cards from the 1996 Upper Deck set in near mint to mint condition can still be found relatively cheaply in the $1-5 range for most common players. Stars and key rookie cards have appreciated more significantly over the past 25+ years. Here’s a breakdown of some notable 1996 Upper Deck card prices based on recent eBay sales:

Derek Jeter #1 rookie card – Even in PSA 9 condition, this iconic rookie still sells for thousands. Mint copies in PSA 10 have sold for over $30,000.

Nomar Garciaparra #91 rookie – Another hugely popular rookie from 1996. PSA 9 copies have sold for $200-300 while PSA 10’s have reached $800-1000.

Chipper Jones #35 rookie – As a lesser desired rookie compared to Jeter and Nomar, PSA 9 Chipper Jones rookie cards sell in the $50-100 range. PSA 10 is around $300-400.

Ken Griffey Jr collection – #153, #162, and #221 make up Griffey’s mini collection in this set. PSA 9’s of each card in this sought after trio have sold for $50-100 individually.

Nolan Ryan #330 – One of Ryan’s last Upper Deck cards before retirement. PSA 9 copies have brought $30-50 while a PSA 10 recently sold for over $200.

Cal Ripken Jr #334 – Ripken remained extremely popular in the mid-90s. Near mint to mint copies sell for $5-15 depending on condition.

Other star veterans – Mantle, Mays, Aaron, and other legends from the 50s-70s era sell in the $5-20 range depending on condition and player prestige.

In terms of team sets, the 1996 Yankees and Braves rosters are among the most valuable. Key Yankees like Bernie Williams, Derek Jeter, and Andy Pettitte in PSA 9 sell for $10-30 each. Top Braves like Chipper Jones, Tom Glavine, and Greg Maddux in similar grades go for $5-15 a card. Rarity of certain parallel or serial numbered inserts can also increase some team set prices.

While not the most valuable vintage set, 1996 Upper Deck still offers affordable collecting and investing opportunities 25+ years later. With some patience, condition-sensitive vintage cardboard can be acquired at reasonable prices. Cards of all-time greats and iconic 90s stars will likely continue appreciating as this generation of collectors ages. For those seeking affordable nostalgia or low risk rewards, 1996 Upper Deck remains a solid baseball card set choice.