The 1976 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. While it may not be the most coveted vintage set overall, it features several highly valuable rookie cards that continue to draw attention from collectors decades later. Let’s take a look at the 10 most valuable 1976 Topps cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint prices:
George Brett – Brett’s rookie card in the 1976 Topps set is universally recognized as one of the key rookie cards from the 1970s. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, examples have sold for over $20,000. Brett went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Kansas City Royals, winning the 1980 American League MVP and batting title. He is one of the greatest third baseman in MLB history.
Dave Parker – While not quite as renowned as Brett’s rookie, Parker’s debut card has also reached the $10,000 threshold in PSA 10. Parker was the NL Rookie of the Year in 1976 with the Pittsburgh Pirates and finished in the top 5 of MVP voting three times during his 19-year career. He won two World Series rings.
Bobby Grich – Although never a true household name, Grich was a notoriously consistent and productive second baseman from 1971-1986 primarily with the California Angels and Baltimore Orioles. His 1976 Topps rookie has sold for around $7,500 in pristine condition. Grich made 6 All-Star teams and won 2 Gold Gloves.
Rollie Fingers – One of the greatest closers in history, Fingers’ mugshot sporting his signature handlebar mustache is iconic. As a member of the Oakland A’s dynasty, his perfect condition rookie changed hands for $6,000. Fingers won the 1974 AL MVP and 1981 World Series MVP on his way to 341 career saves.
Donovan Mitchell – Mitchell was one of two noteworthy rookies in ’76 whose cards are highly sought after today despite average careers. As one of the first notable rookies after the expansion, his PSA 10 has reached $5,000. However, Mitchell only played 3 seasons with a career WAR under 2.
Butch Hobson – Like Mitchell, Hobson’s rookie has gained value beyond his MLB performance largely due to being one of the first rookie cards after the expansion. His PSA 10 has sold for as much as $5,000 as well, despite a less-than-stellar 9-year career primarily with the California Angels.
Larry Hisle – A powerful corner outfielder and designated hitter, Hisle had 8 seasons with 20+ home runs including a career-high 27 for the 1977 Minnesota Twins. His rookie has cracked the $4,000 threshold in pristine condition. Hisle was an All-Star in 1976 and 1978 for the Twins and White Sox.
Dusty Baker – One of the finest power hitters of the 1970s, Baker blasted 242 career home runs primarily with the Dodgers and Giants. His first card has reached $3,500 in PSA 10 form. Baker was a 3-time All-Star and won a World Series as a player in 1981. He now manages in the majors as well.
Jim Wohlford – As one of the few rookie cards from the expansion era Angels and Mariners teams, Wohlford’s PSA 10 has seen $3,000 bids. He had an unremarkable 3-year MLB career after debuting at age 25. Still, such condition cards can attract attention.
Reggie Sanders – One of the most surprising inclusions, Sanders’ rookie has cracked $3,000 based purely on its condition. Sanders never achieved stardom over his 17 seasons, but was renowned as a gold glove outfielder. His 5-tool ability never fully manifested but gives this card value.
While Brett’s rookie towers above the rest, there are several other gems from the 1976 Topps set. Fingers, Parker and Hisle all debuted future Hall of Famers. Beyond the stars, rare and pristine examples of rookie cards like Mitchell and Wohlford have grown in demand from completionists and investors alike. For a vintage issue predating the Junk Wax era, 1976 Topps cards continue to hold significant collector value. Brett’s crown jewel rookie will likely remain the most coveted card for decades to come.
