The Chicago Cubs are one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, with a history dating back to 1874. As one of the oldest teams in the game, Cubs players have been featured on baseball cards for over a century. Today, vintage Cubs cards can be found on eBay from some of the earliest issues all the way up to modern rookies. Whether you’re a die-hard Cubs fan or looking to invest in the memorabilia market, here’s an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and interesting Cubs cards that frequently appear on eBay auctions.
T206 Honus Wagner (1909): While Wagner never played for the Cubs, his legendary T206 card from the early 20th century remains the holy grail of baseball cards. Just 60-80 examples are known to exist, making any in good condition worth well over $1 million. The card depicts Wagner of the Pittsburgh Pirates but was part of the larger American Tobacco baseball portfolio.
Goudey Cubs Team (1933): One of the earliest team sets, this Goudey issue featured multiple Cubs including Hack Wilson, Gabby Hartnett, and Charlie Grimm. High grades can sell for $5,000+. Notable because it was produced during the Depression era and captured iconic players from the franchise’s early 20th century history.
Hack Wilson (1933 Goudey): As one of the most prolific power hitters of his era, Wilson’s home run records stood for decades. His 1933 Goudey rookie card in near-mint to mint condition has sold for over $15,000 in recent years. Captures “Hack” during his record-setting 1930 season when he slugged 56 home runs and drove in 190 runs.
Gabby Hartnett “Call Out” (1934 Goudey): One of the most famous moments in Cubs history was Hartnett’s “Homer in the Gloamin'” game-winning home run against the Pirates on October 1, 1934. His 1934 Goudey card showing him calling out a play perfectly captures the moment and legend. Highly sought after by Cubs PC collectors.
Billy Williams (1964 Topps): As a member of the Cubs from 1959-1975, Williams was a mainstay and one of the franchise’s most popular players. His 1964 Topps rookie card in mint condition has sold for over $4,000. Captures “Sweet Swingin'” Billy during his early career before multiple All-Star and Gold Glove seasons.
Ron Santo (1964 Topps): Another Cubs legend, Santo played third base and was a five-time All-Star for the North Siders from 1960-1973. His 1964 Topps rookie is one of the more iconic and affordable cards from this era, often selling in the $100-300 range depending on condition.
Fergie Jenkins (1971 Topps): Acquired in a 1967 trade, Jenkins went on to have an incredible career as one of the Cubs’ most dominant starting pitchers. He won 20 games three times and threw four no-hitters. His 1971 Topps card in high grade can sell for over $1,000.
Ryne Sandberg (1981 Topps Traded): One of the most accomplished second basemen of all-time, Sandberg spent the majority of his Hall of Fame career with the Cubs from 1981-1997. His 1981 Topps Traded rookie card is highly sought after, with PSA 10 gems selling for over $2,000.
Sammy Sosa Rookie/Update (1989 Bowman/1989 Upper Deck): Sosa emerged as one of baseball’s biggest stars during his 13 seasons with the Cubs from 1992-2004. His rookie cards from 1989 are iconic representations of the Dominican slugger’s early career. High grades can reach $500-1000 each.
Kris Bryant Bowman Chrome Auto (2013): As the 2nd overall pick in the 2013 draft, Bryant quickly developed into an MVP and cornerstone of the Cubs’ 2016 World Series team. His prized 2013 Bowman Chrome rookie auto refractor in gem mint is one of the most valuable modern Cubs cards, regularly selling for over $2,000.
This covers some of the most significant and valuable Cubs cards that frequently surface in auctions on eBay. With over a century of history, Cubs collectors can find iconic representations of legendary players from almost any era. For dedicated PC builders or investors, high grade vintage and star rookie cards from this storied franchise will always remain a strong long-term hold.
