The 1990 Topps baseball card set was one of the most iconic issues of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it didn’t feature any rookies that would go on to massive fame and fortune, it did include plenty of stars from the era that produced some extremely valuable vintage cards worth collecting today. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 most valuable 1990 Topps baseball cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint condition grades:
Greg Maddux (#380) – As one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history, it’s not surprising Maddux’s rookie card from the 1990 Topps set has held its value well over the years. In a PSA 10 grade, it ranks as the 10th most valuable from the set at around $90-100. Maddux would go on to win 4 Cy Young Awards and establish himself as one of the best control pitchers ever.
Ken Griffey Jr. (#109) – Griffey was already one of the game’s brightest young stars by 1990 in just his 3rd MLB season. His talents were evident on this card which depicts him flashing his trademark wide smile. PSA 10 examples typically sell for $100-120 given Griffey’s enduring popularity as a player.
Roberto Alomar (#640) – Though not his true rookie card, Alomar’s 1990 issue shows him as a star player for the San Diego Padres. As a 12-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glover at 2B, Alomar built a Hall of Fame career. PSA 10s ring in around $125.
Cal Ripken Jr. (#422) – By 1990, Ripken was well on his way to breaking Lou Gehrig’s iconic consecutive games played streak, captivating baseball along the way. This widely distributed card still fetches $130-150 in top grade due to Ripken’s status as an Oriole and MLB icon.
Frank Thomas (#441) – Despite not debuting until 1990, “The Big Hurt’s” iconic card image and prolific career led to PSA 10s reaching an estimated $150-175 level of value. Thomas slugged 521 home runs and was a career .301 hitter en route to a Hall of Fame plaque.
Roger Clemens (#205) – Already with 3 Cy Young Awards to his name, “Rocket” Roger’s domination was in full effect in 1990. Even among the set’s heftiest print runs, this card’s allure holds values of $175-200+. Clemens’ 354 career wins and record 7 Cy Youngs make it a coveted piece for collectors.
Barry Bonds (#410) – Bonds began his transformation into the most feared slugger in baseball in 1990. While his career took some scandalous turns, demand for his early Pittsburgh cards like this one has not slowed. PSA 10s demand $200-225 or more on today’s market.
Ken Griffey Jr. (#383) – Griffey’s rookie season was epic and this draft pick card depicting him in full Mariners uniform is among his most iconic early issues. The added scarcity versus his base card helps top graded versions reach prices up to $250 currently.
Nolan Ryan (#281) – Arguably the greatest power pitcher who ever lived, Ryan’s 1990 Topps depicted him in his final MLB season before retirement. Achievements like his record 5,714 strikeouts and 7 no-hitters make this card enormously appealing to vintage enthusiasts willing to spend $300-350 for a PSA 10.
Ken Griffey Jr. (#1) – Holding the coveted #1 position, Griffey’s flagship rookie card takes the prize as the most valuable issue from the 1990 Topps set. Exemplifying his boyish charm and talent, millions of collectors grew up admiring this iconic image. In near mint condition, examples have reached prices up to $1000 due to Griffey’s status as a fan favorite and highly respected player.
The 1990 Topps baseball card set did well to feature many superstars of the late 80s and 90s era. While print runs were high for the time, desirability for stars like Griffey, Maddux, Bonds, and Ryan has helped cards from this vintage series retain strong collector interest and values up to today. For investors and those simply wishing to own premiere pieces of baseball memorabilia, the creme of the 1990 crop as outlined here offer excellent historic cardboard to pursue.
