Topps Big Baseball Cards second series were issued in 1991 and featured images nearly four times the size of a standard baseball card. They quickly became a hit with collectors looking for showcase cards with extra large photos. While not as iconic or valuable as the hugely popular first series from 1988 that featured Ken Griffey Jr. and Nolan Ryan, the 1991 Topps Big Cards second series still hold significance and value for collectors today.
The 1991 Topps Big Cards second series marked the continuation of an innovative concept originally launched just 3 years prior in 1988. That maiden voyage for the oversized cards was an enormous success that captured the imagination of baseball card collectors. It made stars out of players featured on the highly desired cards. Looking to build on that momentum, Topps brought back the Big Card format in 1991 with a new slate of 50 cards spanning all major league teams.
The second series cards measured approximately 6 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches, dwarfing standard baseball cards of the time which were around 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. They featured enormous black and white photographs that truly let the images shine. The enlarged photos with crisp details offered an experience unlike any other baseball card set of the time. On the front was also a smaller color team logo and set number in the bottom corner. Information like the player’s name, position and team were listed on the back along with career stats.
While not boasting the incredible star power of Series 1 cards that featured the likes of Griffey Jr. and Ryan on the cover, there were still plenty of notable players featured in Topps Big Baseball Cards 1991 Series 2. Arguably the biggest name is Hall of Famer Mike Mussina on card #21. Other stars included Tim Raines on #36, Bobby Thigpen on #38, and Ken Caminiti on #43. There were also rising young talents like David Cone on #23, Chuck Knoblauch on #31, and Jeffrey Leonard on #46. Each had potential to develop into superstars down the road.
In terms of rarity, the 1991 Topps Big Baseball Cards are fairly easy to acquire in at least Near Mint to Mint condition. They were mass produced and inserted as chase cards in wax packs along regular sized cards. Being the second series, they did not generate the same excitement or scarcity as the groundbreaking first in 1988. Most are valued between $5-$15 for common players in top condition, according to price guides. Noteworthy rookies could fetch $20-30 while stars may reach $50. The Mike Mussina is a standout, regularly appraising for $75-$100 due to his Hall of Fame career.
There are a few factors that could increase a 1991 Topps Big Card’s value above average. One is the presence of a rare printing error, miscut, or oddity on the card that makes it one-of-a-kind. True gem mint condition example with perfect centering would also sell for a premium price. Authenticated autographs on the Large cards also hold significant worth, especially of star players. A PSA/BGS slabbed autographed Mike Mussina could easily top $500. Rookie cards signed could reach 4 figures.
An entire set in high grade is valued moderately compared to many other baseball card releases. A PSA/BGS 9 Mint set in a authenticated holder may bring $150-$250 at auction. Clearly graded and encapsulated examples demand the most money from enthusiasts. A complete master set with additional variations could push $350-$450 depending on average grades. Still, for a fairly common late 80s/early 90s issue, full 1991 Topps Big Card sets remain somewhat affordable for most collectors.
While never reaching the true icon status or massive popularity of the groundbreaking 1988 Topps Big Cards, the second series from 1991 remain an important bridge connecting that initial novelty to future oversized releases. They expanded on a unique innovation that blurred the lines between cards and art, appealing to grown collectors. Despite plentiful production, strong condition examples with storytelling players maintain significance and value recognized by enthusiasts. Graded rookie cards and autographs possess scarcity adding premium. The 1991 Topps Big Baseball Card second series was a quality continuation of an influential short printed concept retaining nostalgia and collecting significance today.
