The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic releases in the modern era of the hobby. While not quite as valuable as sets from the late 1980s like 1987 Topps or 1988 Donruss, 1989 Fleer still featured many of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. The set is also notable for being one of the first to feature traded players in their new uniforms, helping collectors stay up to date on offseason transactions. With 700 total cards issued, 1989 Fleer had no shortage of memorable and desirable rookie cards, inserts, and stars of the day. Here are some of the most noteworthy cards collectors still seek out over 30 years later:

Ken Griffey Jr Rookie Card (Card #1)

He may go down as the greatest player to never win a World Series, but Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card from 1989 Fleer is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and valuable cards ever produced. Featured as the set’s first card in the checklist, Griffey’s rookie introduced baseball fans and collectors to one of the game’s most talented five-tool players and future Hall of Famer. With its bright colors, action pose, and subject matter, the Griffey rookie established itself as the crown jewel of the 1989 Fleer set from day one. Over the decades, strong demand has driven PSA 10 examples of this card into the range of $10,000-20,000 depending on market conditions. Even well-centered raw copies still command four-figure prices.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (Card #91)

While not quite as heralded as some other rookies from the late 1980s, Greg Maddux’s first card remains one of the more iconic and sought-after from 1989 Fleer. Maddux would go on to win four Cy Young Awards and establish himself as one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history with his pinpoint control and mastery of changing speeds. His rookie card features an action shot of the young righty in a Cubs uniform, foreshadowing great things to come. High-grade Maddux rookies still trade hands for $1,000-2,000, a testament to his Hall of Fame career and the lasting appeal of his debut issue.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (Card #144)

Barry Bonds is one of the most polarizing figures in baseball history, but his prodigious talent is undeniable. His rookie card from 1989 Fleer is one of the most historically significant issues from the entire set. Bonds would go on to smash the all-time home run record and win a record seven MVP awards, cementing himself as perhaps the greatest pure hitter ever. High-grade examples of his rookie in Pirates black and gold still demand $1,000-2,000. While not in the same league as Griffey or Maddux rookies value-wise due to Bonds’ controversial legacy, this iconic issue remains a highly sought trophy card for collectors.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card (Card #161)

While overshadowed in the hobby by flashier rookies from 1989 Fleer, Roberto Alomar’s debut is still a highly coveted issue recognizing a surefire Hall of Famer. Alomar broke into the big leagues with the Padres and is pictured in brown and yellow with “San Diego” across his chest. He would go on to have a stellar career with the Blue Jays, Orioles, Mets and others while establishing himself as a premier defensive second baseman. Alomar rookies have risen in value over the years to the $300-500 range for high-quality specimens, a testament to his excellent 20-year MLB tenure.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (Card #182)

Another relatively “underrated” rookie from 1989 Fleer is that of Tom Glavine. The lefty broke in with the Atlanta Braves and while not boasting huge strikeout totals, established himself as one of the best control pitchers in baseball history. Glavine rookies were relatively plentiful upon release but have risen steadily in value as the left-hander gained entry into the Hall of Fame based on his 305 career wins and two Cy Young Awards. PSA 10 Glavine rookies now bring $400-600, reflecting his excellent 21-year MLB career spent primarily in a Braves uniform.

Nolan Ryan Insert Card (#I-NR)

While not technically a “rookie” card, the popular insert featuring legendary flamethrower Nolan Ryan stood out amongst the 1989 Fleer checklist. Shot in classic Astros garb before his later years with the Angels and Rangers, the iconic image of Ryan winding up remains one of the most iconic in the entire set. Numbered to only 99 copies, high-grade versions of this popular insert card reach into the $500-1,000 range depending on condition. It’s a must-have for any Ryan or Astros collector.

Ozzie Smith Insert Card (#I-OS)

Complementing the Nolan Ryan insert was this sharp photo of Wizard of Oz Ozzie Smith backflipping in a Cardinals uniform. Like the Ryan, it was limited to only 99 copies amongst the 1989 Fleer checklist. Widely considered one of if not the greatest defensive shortstop in MLB history, Smith’s career and this iconic action shot are captured in card form. Top-graded versions regularly sell between $300-600 based on his surefire Hall of Fame career and the rarity/iconic nature of the insert imagery.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (Card #338)

While overshadowed upon release by bigger star rookies, Frank Thomas’ debut with the White Sox has risen steadily in demand and value over the decades. Nicknamed “The Big Hurt,” Thomas established himself as arguably the premier right-handed power hitter of the 1990s while winning back-to-back MVPs. His rookie card from 1989 Fleer is quite scarce in high grades due to the photo cutting off at the top. PSA 10 examples have broken the $1,000 barrier in recent years, a testament to Thomas’ Hall of Fame playing career.

Other Key Cards

In addition to the headlining rookies, inserts and stars above, 1989 Fleer featured many other iconic veterans and future Hall of Famers in their primes:

Kirby Puckett (#15): Perennial All-Star entered his peak years with the Twins.

Wade Boggs (#21): Hit .325 for his career and the face of the Red Sox’s late 80s success.

Ozzie Smith (#25): The Wizard was in his defensive prime with the Cardinals.

Don Mattingly (#29): The 1985 MVP was the face of the Yankees franchise.

Roger Clemens (#33): Already one of the best pitchers in the game with the Red Sox.

Rickey Henderson (#45): Stole more bases than anyone in history and in his prime.

Mike Schmidt (#56): The Phillies legend was in his final seasons but still raking.

George Brett (#63): Future Hall of Famer’s career was winding down but still productive.

Nolan Ryan (#71): The Express was still dealing in his early 40s with the Astros.

In summary, 1989 Fleer remains a hugely popular and iconic vintage release due to its star-studded checklist featuring the likes of Griffey, Maddux, Bonds, Alomar, and many other all-time greats. While some individual cards have appreciated significantly, full sets can still be acquired for reasonable prices relative to other late 80s/early 90s issues. The iconic rookie cards, inserts, and photos make this a must-have grouping for any vintage baseball card collector.