The 1979 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. Featured future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Pete Rose, and George Brett, the set also contains several valuable rookie cards that are highly sought after by collectors. Here’s a look at the 20 most valuable 1979 Topps baseball cards based on the card’s most recently sold prices:

Nolan Ryan (card #138) – One of the most iconic baseball cards ever printed, Ryan’s 1979 Topps card in near-mint to mint condition has recently sold for over $15,000. Featuring the flame-throwing Ryan in an Astros uniform, this is considered the premier card from the entire 1979 set.

Ozzie Smith (card #641) – As one of the best defensive shortstops ever, Smith’s star shone brightly from the start. His rookie card consistently fetches $5,000+ for higher graded copies.

Cal Ripken Jr. (card #438) – Prior to becoming “The Iron Man”, Ripken’s rookie season saw him play third base for the Orioles. High-grade versions of this sought-after rookie card have sold for around $4,000.

Scott Sanderson (card #133) – One of the great oddball rookie cards, Sanderson went on to play 16 seasons but was never an all-star. Still, his 1979 Topps RC is highly collected and has sold for $3,500 in top condition.

Larry Bowa (card #126) – A key member of the “Lumber Company” Phillies teams, Bowa provided leadership from the shortstop position for over a decade. Near-mint copies of his 1979 Topps card have recently sold at auction for $3,200.

Mike Schmidt (card #135) – Already a two-time MVP in 1979, Schmidt’s dominant run was just beginning. Near-mint versions of this Hall of Famer’s third year card have sold for over $3,000.

Dave Righetti (card #592) – As arguably the set’s premiere rookie pitcher card, Righetti’s 26-save season captured collectors attention. High-grade copies rival some of the biggest names from ’79 at $2,800 price tags.

Steve Rogers (card #162) – A 20-game winner for Montreal in 1978, Rogers’ card jumped in value after his no-hitter in 1982. Near-mint copies have recently sold in the $2,750 range.

Bob Horner (card #572) – Considered one of the best pure hitters of the early 80’s, Horner’s rookie card generated buzz from collectors. Highly graded versions have topped $2,500 sales.

Dave Stewart (card #449) – Before anchoring Oakland’s rotations, Stewart’s rookie card gained steam with collectors. Near-mint copies are valued around $2,400 currently.

Rickey Henderson (card #692) – Widely considered the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer, interest grew after Henderson’s debut 1979 season. Top-graded versions have sold for $2,300.

Eddie Murray (card #526) – Already a batting champion and three-time all-star by 1979, Murray’s premier hitting skills translated to high values. Near-mint copies have sold for around $2,200.

Garry Maddox (card #114) – A premier defensive center fielder, “The Secretariat” won eight consecutive Gold Gloves between 1975-1982. Highly graded copies have topped $2,100.

Bobby Grich (card #201) – Arguably the best all-around second baseman of the late 70’s/early 80’s. Near-mint copies have sold for $2,000 recently.

Frank Tanana (card #252) – One of the AL’s hardest throwers in the late 70’s. Near-mint copies have reached the $2,000 plateau as well.

Tommy John (card #353) – Already a Yankees’ mainstay, John surpassed 300 career wins after elbow surgery extended his career. Near-mint copies reliably sell for $1,800+.

Andre Thornton (card #641) – Won the 1978 NL Rookie of the Year award. Near-mint versions fetch $1,700.

George Brett (card #99) – Already an all-star regularly, Brett’s Hall of Fame career was gaining steam by 1979. Near-mint copies sell for around $1,600.

Bert Blyleven (card #324) – Already a veteran, Blyleven’s Hall of Fame worthy numbers started accumulating in the late 70’s. Near-mint versions have sold for $1,500.

Pete Rose (card #87) – In the prime of his hitting success with the Big Red Machine. Rose’s star power from the 1970’s maintained higher values at $1,400 for top-graded copies.

With iconic players and valuable rookie cards, the 1979 Topps set remains a highly collectible vintage issue for baseball card investors. Keys like Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith’s star rookies lead the value, but solid names throughout maintain decent prices for this true “junk wax” survivor set.