The 1991 Donruss baseball card set holds several gems that are worth a good amount of money in the today’s hockey card market. While 1991 wasn’t a major release year that is highly sought after by collectors, there are still plenty of cards from that year that have gained value over time and are worth checking your collection for.
One of the biggest hits from the 1991 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already generating huge hype going into his rookie season and did not disappoint, smashing 22 home runs and winning rookie of the year honors. His iconic swing and effortless talent made him an instant star. As one of the most coveted rookie cards ever, the 1991 Donruss Griffey Jr. ranks near the top of desired cards from that era. In near mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $200-300. Higher graded versions in the PSA/BGS 9-10 range have been known to fetch $1,000 or more due to Griffey’s status as one of the all-time fan favorite players.
Another rookie card from 1991 Donruss with strong value is Juan Gonzalez. Like Griffey, Gonzalez burst onto the scene as a phenom, batting .266 with 26 home runs and 76 RBI in his first full season. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career. While not in Griffey’s stratosphere in terms of collectibility, the Gonzalez rookie is still a key card to have from the set. Near mint copies sell in the $30-50 range, with top graded versions potentially reaching $100 or more. Prices have been steadily climbing as Gonzalez’s career accomplishments are appreciated.
In addition to rookie stars, 1991 Donruss featured valuable inserts and parallels that have become hotly pursued. Two standouts are the Frank Thomas Signature Stars insert card and the Derek Jeter Associated Press parallel rookie. The Thomas auto/patch insert is one of the true hits from the set, with a production number of only 100 copies. Graded examples have eclipsed $1000 at auction. The Jeter AP card has also gained tremendous clout due to his iconic career. PSA/BGS 9’s have reached up to $500 with his brand continuing to grow in popularity decades after retirement.
Other notable 1991 Donruss cards that can be found for respectable values assuming good condition include:
Nolan Ryan ($25-$50) – One of his final career cards and still a fan favorite.
Cal Ripken Jr. ($10-$20) – Perennial all-star and iron man at the peak of his powers.
Ozzie Smith ($10-$15) – A defensive wizard cherished by collectors.
Roberto Alomar ($15-$30) – Came into his own and was a batting champion at this stage of his career.
Kirby Puckett ($10-$15) – Already an established superstar who helped lead the Twins to multiple titles.
David Justice ($5-$10) – Had breakout seasons in the early 90s before becoming a World Series champion.
Moises Alou ($5-$10) – Established power bat on the Expos at this point of his career.
1991 Donruss wasn’t the biggest selling set around but has developed a strong cult following over the decades. For collectors looking to find hidden gems from this era, scouring through intact 1991 Donruss boxes remains a worthwhile endeavor due to the star rookies, inserts and veteran legends featured throughout. Especially in higher grades, these cards continue appreciating in value at a healthy clip. A set with certified vintage from Griffey, Gonzalez, Thomas, Ripken and more is a true keystone collection for baseball card devotees.
While 1991 Donruss may not be the flashiest or highest selling vintage release, it features several true blue chip rookie cards and short prints that make digging through these 3 decade old packs highly rewarding. For those willing to put in collection time seeking the condition graded chase cards, strong long term returns can be realized. The allure of rookie season Griffey and Gonzalez alone guarantee the 1991 Donruss set a permanent place in the hobby.
