The 1985 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the more valuable issues from the 1980s. While it lacks the true star rookies of sets like 1987 and 1989, there are still several cards that have increased greatly in value over the past 35+ years. Let’s take a look at some of the key 1985 Topps baseball cards that are worth money today.
One of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards from 1985 is Dodgers pitcher Orel Hershiser. As the 223rd card in the set, Hershiser’s rookie is highly sought after by collectors. In PSA 10 condition, it can fetch $400-$500. Even lower graded gems in PSA 8 or 9 condition sell for $100-200. What makes this card so desirable is that Hershiser would go on to win both the Cy Young Award and World Series MVP in 1988, cementing his future Hall of Fame status.
Another Dodgers pitcher who made his Topps rookie debut in 1985 is Fernando Valenzuela. As the 171st card in the set, “Fernandomania” was in full force during his breakout 1980 rookie season. In PSA 10 condition, his rookie card can sell for $300-400. Less than gem mint copies still demand $75-150. While not a true star relative to his early career success, Valenzuela’s rookie remains a key piece for any Dodger or 1985 Topps collection.
Staying on the Dodgers theme, one of the bigger keys from 1985 is the Orel Hershiser/Fernando Valenzuela “duo” card numbered to 350 copies. As the rare “factory set” insert, this dual image card of the two Dodgers aces is one of the most sought after from the entire 1985 issue. In gem mint condition, examples have sold for upwards of $1500. Even well-centered, sharply-cornered copies in the PSA 8-9 range will bring $400-800.
Shifting to the American League, slugger Don Mattingly’s outstanding rookie season with the Yankees made his 1985 Topps card a consistent money maker. Numbered 198 in the set, a PSA 10 Mattingly rookie will sell between $250-400. For PSA 8 and 9 copies, expect to pay $75-175 depending on age, centering and corners. Like Hershiser, Mattingly’s all-star career and reputation as one of baseball’s finest first basemen enhances demand for his initial Topps issue.
Another Yankee with a highly-regarded 1985 rookie card is pitcher Dave Righetti. As card #632, Righetti’s game used jersey relic makes it a favorite of Yankees collectors. PSA 10 examples have exceeded $400 at auction. Slightly played near-mint copies still sell within the $100-250 range. What helps Righetti’s card remain collectible is his place as the last Yankee to record a save in his rookie season way back in 1981.
Moving to the National League, one of the more iconic rookie cards from 1985 is Mets third baseman Howard Johnson. Known best by his nickname “HoJo”, his rookie card numbered 566 is a fan favorite of Mets and 1980s collectors. In PSA 10 condition, HoJo’s rookie has topped $300-400. Slightly played PSA 8 copies still demand $75-150 due to his 40/40 season achievements and “popularity” with fans. Nostalgia for the 1980s Mets teams continues to boost demand for this card.
Last but not least, one of the true stars and most valuable cards from the entire 1985 Topps set belongs to Cardinals superstar Ozzie Smith. As the 673rd card, “The Wizard’s” distinctive defensive skills and memorable 1982 season cemented his future Hall of Fame credentials. A PSA 10 Smith rookie in a recent Goldin Auctions sale realized an astounding $1575. Even lower graded gems in the PSA 8-9 range still sell within the $300-700 range. Simply put, Ozzie Smith’s rookie is a true blue chip gem for any serious 1980s collector.
While the 1985 Topps baseball card set lacks true crossover stars like Griffey Jr. or Bonds, there are still several noteworthy rookie cards and players that have increased nicely in value. Keys like Hershiser, Mattingly, Smith and Valenzuela remain cornerstones for both Dodgers and Cardinals collectors from the 1980s era. With a mix of star potential and nostalgia, certain cards from the 1985 issue are sure to continue gaining in popularity and price among vintage sports memorabilia aficionados. With careful grading and selection, there is solid investment upside to be found amongst the quality cardboard from this highly regarded vintage release.
