The 1959 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic of all time due to its simplicity and the caliber of future Hall of Famers that are featured. One of the hallmarks of the 1959 set is the large number of rookie cards of future stars that were issued. Many of these rookie cards have increased dramatically in value over the decades. Here are some of the most valuable 1959 baseball cards collectors seek:
The crown jewel of the 1959 set without question is the Hank Aaron rookie card. Only about 25-50 copies of Aaron’s rookie are believed to still exist in Near Mint to Mint condition. Every detail of the card is iconic from the simple white border, to the team name abbreviation “Mil” at the top right. One recently sold for over $1 million, making this one of the highest valued baseball cards ever. Understandably, very few are likely to ever sell given what it represents – one of the game’s all-time home run kings.
Another key rookie is the Harmon Killebrew card. Similar to Aaron, only a very small number are graded high. Though not quite as legendary as Aaron, Killebrew still put together a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Minnesota Twins. A NM+ example sold for around $350,000. Much like Aaron, the scarcity of high grade Killebrew rookies makes this a true condition-sensitive gem.
Among the most iconic of all pitcher rookies is the Sandy Koufax card. Though he did not emerge as a top pitcher until a few years later, any rookie of a future three-time Cy Young winner will have immense value. Examples in the $125,000-$250,000 range show the impact of Koufax’s eventual dominance. Copies in high grades are elusive. The simplicity of the design like all ’59s adds to its elegant beauty and historical context.
Another standout hitting rookie was future all-time hits king Pete Rose. While his overall legacy has been marred in recent history, Rose’s card has always retained strong appeal for collectors given his playing excellence and intangibles that made him a fan favorite. High quality examples can reach around $25,000-50,000, making this one quite affordable compared to other top rookies. The Rose card has continued to hold value based on stats alone unlike some other players with personal conduct issues that have impacted certain cards negatively.
Rookies of Earl Weaver, Don Drysdale, and Roger Maris also hold immense value given their on-field successes and Hall of Fame-caliber careers. A Weaver can reach $10,000 plus while a Drysdale about half that. Maris’ single season HR record in ’61 guaranteed his card’s place among the all-time great Yankees and is generally valued at $15,000-$30,000. Those looking to find a good buy on a historically important rookie would do well studying these alternatives to the ultra-six figure options.
Of course, beyond the massive number of rookie gems, other standout high grade 1959s across all levels of play and experience also carry impressive valuations today. A Mickey Mantle in true NM+ quality pushing $150,000 shows his stature and allure remains strong. High grade Ted Williams, Willie Mays, and second year Frank Robinson cards also surpass the $50,000 mark. For those who place high importance on autographs, a signed Mantle or Mays can approach $500,000 given their rarity and natural increase in desirability as a memorabilia card.
The 1959 Topps set showcased so many future all-time great players that nearly every desirable name holds significant collector interest today despite the simplicity of the design. For astute vintage collectors of means, adding an iconic rookie or two represents an excellent way to acquire a true piece of baseball history. But for most, simply appreciating the historic context and talents of the players highlighted make the 1959s an incredibly special set deserving of its legendary status in the hobby. Whether collecting for value or nostalgia, it remains one of the most cherished vintage releases.
