The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of that year. While not as flashy as some of the competing brands at the time like Upper Deck, Score, and Topps, Donruss managed to include some valuable rookie cards and short prints that have become very desirable for collectors over the decades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key 1990 Donruss baseball cards collectors should be on the lookout for.
Perhaps the biggest star of the ’90 Donruss set is the Chipper Jones rookie card. As the #1 overall pick in the 1990 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves, Chipper Jones went on to have a Hall of Fame worthy career that included 8 All-Star appearances and an MVP award in 1999. His rookie card from Donruss is one of the more iconic from the early 1990s period. Graded PSA 10 examples of the Chipper Jones rookie have sold for over $10,000, showing just how strong the long term demand has been for this card. Even well-centered, raw copies in excellent shape still fetch hundreds of dollars.
Another massive star rookie from 1990 Donruss is Jim Thome. Like Jones, Thome put together a fantastic career hitting over 600 home runs, making him a lock for Cooperstown. His iconic swinging stance rookie card depicts him as a member of the Minnesota Twins organization. High graded PSA 10 versions can reach $3,000-$5,000 but there is demand across all grades and conditions for this card. Even a well-centered near mint copy would be worth $100-$200 minimum.
Staying with the rookie theme, Darren Daulton’s first card from 1990 Donruss is also highly regarded. As the former Philadelphia Phillies catcher who helped lead them to the 1993 World Series title, “Dutch” built up quite a following among Phillies fans. His rookie remains fairly affordable compared to the previous two, fetching $20-$50 in top-notch condition but there’s no question it’s an important Phillies piece from the early 1990s.
Moving beyond the rookies, veterans like Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith featured some of the most visually stunning images from the 1990 Donruss set. Ryan’s card depicts him pitching for the Texas Rangers and includes his stats and accomplishments in a unique style. Guys of Ryan’s fame and prestige always have stable demand. Graded Gem Mint PSA 10 versions can reach $150-$250. For “The Wizard” Ozzie Smith, his defensive prowess is on full display on his 1990 Donruss issue making it a must for any Cardinals or shortstop collector. PSA 10s commonly sell for $75-$150.
Subset and insert cards were a major part of the 1990 Donruss release. The “Shoeless” Joe Jackson membership card is one of the most sought after variations. Limited to only 100 copies, this postcard-style issue pays homage to the legendary Black Sox player. PSA 10 specimens have changed hands for north of $3,000 before. Elsewhere, the Red Hot Rookies subset cards like the previously mentioned Jones, Thome and Daulton rookies remain in high demand.
Low numbered parallel and serial numbered cards were also inserted throughout 1990 Donruss packs. Parallel cards like the gold and silver foil versions often featured different photos compared to the base issues. Numbers cards under 100 pieces like Mark McGwire #47/100 can be worth hundreds. Relic and autograph cards were not in the base set but show up in factory sets and team sets from time to time adding tremendous value.
In summary, 1990 Donruss had an incredible mixture of future Hall of Fame rookie stars, accomplished veterans, and various fun insert cards that have enthralled collectors for decades. While the designs may not seem as flashy by today’s standards, the compelling photography and historical significance of this release make many of the key cards worthwhile long term keepsakes. With patience and a bit of luck unearthing a high graded Chipper Jones or Jim Thome rookie could deliver a lifetime memory for any sports card collector.
