The 1990 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the more popular and valuable sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s period.Released at the tail end of the “junk wax” era, the 1990 Topps set still contains several highly sought after rookie cards and key players cards that have held or increased in value over the decades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout 1990 Topps cards worth tracking down for a collection or investment.
Perhaps the most iconic and valuable card from the 1990 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr rookie card. As one of the most talented and popular players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie card from this set is a true gem. In pristine mint condition, a 1990 Topps Griffey Jr rookie card can fetch upwards of $2,000-$3,000+ on today’s market. Even well-centered near mint copies still command $400-$800 due to Griffey’s legendary career and status as a fan favorite. It’s one of the few true key rookies from the late 80s/early 90s to still be in high demand.
Another highly sought after rookie card is that of future 500 home run club member Fred McGriff. As a power hitting first baseman, McGriff put together a solid career and his rookie is one of the tougher 1990 Topps cards to acquire in top condition today. Near mint McGriff rookies sell between $100-200, with sharp mint copies potentially reaching $300 or more. Among other noteworthy rookie cards are Andy Benes, Bob Hamelin, and Daulton.
In addition to rookie standouts, the 1990 Topps set features several rising stars and franchise cornerstones entering their primes. Arguably the biggest star card is that of Chicago Cubs SS/3B Ryne Sandberg. As a perennial All-Star and possession of some of the set’s sharpest photography, a near mint Sandberg can sell for over $50. His teammate Greg Maddux, already establishing himself as one of baseball’s best young pitchers in 1990, also commands $30-50 in NM-MT condition.
The 1990 Topps set also commemorated the continuing dominance of pitching greats Roger Clemens and Nolan Ryan. Both future Hall of Famers, their cards typically sell in the $15-30 range in top shape. Young Matt Williams’ record-setting season is also captured in his 1990 Topps issue, valued around $10-20 NM. Staples like Cal Ripken Jr, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith round out the checklist of certified future Hall of Famers and solid veterans.
Outside the star power, there are a number of oddball parallel and insert cards that add uniqueness and scarcity to the 1990 Topps set. For example, the “Winning Combinations” insert set featuring player duos is quite coveted by team collectors. Team United States and All-Star inserts also spice things up compared to typical base cards. Topps Golden Moments and Tek rejoined the insert game in 1990 after a brief hiatus as well.
While certainly not as valuable as the true stars and key rookies, 1990 Topps commons and short prints still hold nostalgia and affordable collectability. Sets can be completed with patience despite the huge printing quantities of the time. Creatively illustrated traded players and managers/coaches round out the 792 total card checklist. Overall designs are bright and colorful with fun action shots making the 1990s truly pop compared to drab early ’80s sets.
The 1990 Topps baseball card set deserves attention from both investors and enthusiastic collectors. As one of the final “big printing” sets before the player strike shortened 1991 season, 1990 Topps bridges the transition from junk wax era to the modern collecting environment. Key rookie like Griffey and stars like Sandberg and Maddux lead the way in terms of value, but there is fun to be had completing the full rainbow set as well. With dedicated searching, a good condition 1990 Topps collection or portfolio can be acquired affordably and hold value given the lasting popularity and talent featured during a classic time in the game’s history.
