1989 was an exciting season in Major League Baseball, with the Oakland Athletics winning their second consecutive World Series title. This was also the year that Leaf Inc released their 1989 Leaf Baseball trading card set, featuring cards of players and teams from that season. Let’s take an in-depth look at the 1989 Leaf Inc baseball card set and explore some of the top cards and their potential value over 30 years later.
The 1989 Leaf baseball card set contains 330 total cards featuring current Major League Baseball players, managers, and coaches from that season. Some of the biggest baseball stars of the time like Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, and Wade Boggs are all featured in the set. The set was also unique in that it showcased current Minor League affiliates for each MLB team through prospects and rookie cards of future stars like Jeff Bagwell and Tom Glavine.
In terms of set composition, the 1989 Leaf Inc cards featured typical designs for the time with player photos on a white background. The front of each card displays the player’s picture and stats from the previous season, while the back provides a brief career summary. The condition and centering of these early ’90s Leaf cards tend to be all over the place, as quality control was not as refined then. For collectors evaluating condition, a near mint (NM) or better example of each card would still hold nice value today.
While not the most coveted set from that era, there are still highly sought after gems in the 1989 Leaf release that could fetch hundreds or even thousands in top grades today. One of the star rookies featured is Ken Griffey Jr, who had just started to break out in 1989 with the Seattle Mariners. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, Griffey’s rookie card from this set recently sold for over $2,000. Other young talents like Bobby Witt and Frank Thomas also have rookie cards in 1989 Leaf that can gain value with time, surpassing $100 each for top condition.
Veteran superstars remain the true blue chip cards though. Arguably the most valuable regular issue card would be Nolan Ryan’s, since he is one of the most iconic and respected players ever. A PSA 10 gem version of his ’89 Leaf card recently sold for over $800. Other high dollar veterans include Ozzie Smith, whose speed, dazzling defense, and 13 Gold Gloves make him a fan favorite. A PSA 10 of his ’89 Leaf card sold for $450. Wade Boggs, a career .328 hitter and 5-time batting champ, has a $350 PSA 10 card. And despite controversy, Barry Bonds still holds immense baseball talent – his pristine ’89 Leaf card reached $325.
Beyond singles, there are also opportunities in complete sets. While not considered the most desirable vintage set to collect in its entirety, a 1989 Leaf Inc. baseball card set in Near Mint to Mint condition could still fetch between $150-$250 today. And the insert/variation cards provide added intrigue. Some noted specialty cards include the Ozzie Smith error card, which features an oversized photo extending past the borders. High grade examples have sold for over $700. The Mike Schmidt League Leaders card recognizing his 1988 stats is also valued near $100 PSA 10.
While the 1989 Leaf baseball card set may not have the same nostalgia or historic significance as flagship Topps or Fleer releases from that era, there remains potential value to be found after 30+ years. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr. and veterans like Ryan, Boggs and Smith can gain hundreds if not thousands in top condition. And with the sustained interest in vintage baseball collecting, the opportunity exists for shrewd investors to profit by acquiring key ’89 Leaf cards at reasonable prices today. For both collectors and investors, this late 80s Leaf set still provides an affordable entry point to hold valuable baseball memorabilia from another generation.
