The 1986 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases of the 1980s and produced some legendary rookie cards that have stood the test of time. While the majority of cards from the set hold little monetary value today, there are 10 in particular that regularly command premium prices thanks to the all-time great players they feature or other unique factors. Here’s a look at the 10 most valuable 1986 Donruss baseball cards based on the average prices they sell for in near mint to mint condition:

Cal Ripken Jr. – Ripken came into the 1986 season with great expectations as the previous year’s Rookie of the Year. His iconic streak of consecutive games played was still years away, but collectors recognized his budding superstardom. Ripken’s iconic batting stance and smooth lefty swing made him extremely popular. His rookie card typically sells for $50-75.

Roger Clemens – Clemens was already establishing himself as one of the game’s most dominant pitchers in 1986. The rocket right arm tossed a 20-strikeout game that season. His rookie card portraying his intimidating wind-up has gained value over the years, commanding $60-90. Clemens went on to win 7 Cy Young Awards cementing his Hall of Fame status.

Barry Larkin – One of the most talented and underrated shortstops of all-time, Larkin burst onto the scene in 1986 winning Rookie of the Year honors. He brought flair and excitement to Cincinnati for many seasons. Larkin’s smooth defensive skills translated nicely to his rookie card which sells in the $70-100 range now.

Greg Maddux – Maddux broke in with the Cubs in 1986 and showed glimpses of the pinpoint control that would serve him tremendously for decades. He is considered one of the greatest pitchers ever despite having below average velocity. Maddux’s mastery of location makes his rookie card quite sought after at $80-120.

Tom Glavine – Like Maddux, Glavine lacked overpowering stuff but had impeccable command starting out with the Mets/Braves. He went on to rack up 305 wins and 2 Cy Youngs. Glavine’s picture on his rookie card isn’t the most dynamic but collectors still pay $90-130 to own it.

Jeff Bagwell – Bagwell took the league by storm in 1991 winning Rookie of the Year but collectors could foresee his excellence even in 1986. His smooth lefty swing and versatility to play numerous positions made him a fan favorite. Bagwell’s rookie card is a strong $100-150 average.

Barry Bonds – While Bonds was just a rookie with promise in 1986, no one could predict he would develop into arguably the greatest hitter ever. His size, strength, speed and power were already evident. Bonds’ status as arguably the most dominant major leaguer ever has his rookie card holding steady values of $125-175.

Ken Griffey Jr. – “The Kid” was already must-see TV with his dazzling plays and huge smile in 1986. His effortless lefty swing was poetry in motion. Griffey’s photo capturing his follow-through is iconic and recognized worldwide. In top grades his ’86 Donruss fetches $200-250.

Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt” arrived with a roar hitting .273 with 10 homers in only 56 games in 1986. His mammoth physique and effortless lefty pop made him a fan and player favorite for years. Thomas has long been regarded as one of the most complete hitters ever. His eye-catching rookie card demands $250-350.

Derek Jeter – While Jeter’s star took time to fully shine, by 1996 his slick defense, clutch hitting and championship pedigree made him a fan favorite. Off the field, his humbleness and class also earned him universal respect. As a result, his 1986 Donruss RC graded gem mint is the most expensive at auction consistently reaching the $500-1000 range.

The 1986 Donruss set carries special significance because it introduced so many all-time great players who went on to have Hall of Fame careers. While the monetary value of any single card is dependent on condition, player performance and rarity – the 10 highlighted cards clearly stand out as the true blue chip gems worth owning from the ’86 release due to spotlighting legends like Jeter, Griffey, Bonds and Thomas. Their rookie cards continue appreciating with time.