The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most sought after and valuable sets from the late 1980s. While it didn’t feature the biggest rookie class, there are several key cards that collectors covet and are worth significant money in high grades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1989 Fleer cards that have held or increased in value over the past 30+ years.

Ken Griffey Jr. was already one of baseball’s bright young stars by 1989 in just his second MLB season. Naturally, his rookie card from the 1989 Fleer set is highly desirable. In near mint to mint condition, Jr.’s rookie card in a PSA 10 gem mint sells for around $800-1000. Even in excellent condition, a PSA 8 copy is worth $100-150. What makes Griffey’s rookie so valuable is his iconic status as one of the game’s best players who was also hugely popular with fans. Seeing the talent he was as a rookie, collectors knew he was destined for greatness.

Another rookie card in the 1989 Fleer set that has appreciated nicely is Gregg Jefferies. Playing for the Mets and Cardinals in his early career, Jefferies showed promise but never fully lived up to his advance billing. Nonetheless, in a PSA 10 mint copy, his rookie sells in the $100-150 range. Even in a PSA 8, it still fetches $25-30. Jefferies had hype around him as a prospect, which has kept collector interest in his rookie card.

Staying in the realm of position player rookies, the 1989 Donruss card of Reds star Barry Larkin is also a hot commodity for collectors. Considered the best shortstop of his era, Larkin’s Hall of Fame career only adds to his rookie card’s appeal. In a PSA 10, it can sell for $300-500 due to its scarcity at the highest grade. Even in a PSA 8, Larkin’s rookie commands $75-100 on the current market.

While position players tend to drive the hobby, pitching rookies hold value as well – especially those of future Hall of Famers. In the 1989 Fleer set, Tom Glavine, who went on to become one of the greatest southpaws ever, has a very collectible rookie card. In a PSA 10 mint version, Glavine’s ’89 Fleer RC sells for $200-300 in today’s market. A PSA 8 still fetches $50-75 for collectors. The Braves ace spent most of his decorated career in Atlanta, endearing him to many collectors in that region.

Greg Maddux, another future first-ballot Hall of Fame hurler, also had his rookie season in 1989 though he didn’t have an official rookie card until 1990 Donruss. His 1989 Fleer card showing him as a Chicago Cub is highly regarded. In mint condition, it typically sells in the $100-150 range. Even worn copies in PSA 8 trade hands around $30 due to Maddux’s legendary status and popularity with collectors. Seeing him pre-dominant Atlanta years is a compelling draw for fans of the “Professor.”

While star rookies and future Hall of Famers predictably lead the value rankings, there are a few veteran stars from the 1989 Fleer set that also hold significant worth. For instance, Chicago White Sox legend Frank Thomas had one of the best seasons of his career in 1988 when he won the AL MVP and Rookie of the Year awards. In top PSA 10 grade, “The Big Hurt’s” prized 1989 Fleer card sells between $150-200 given his status as one of the best all-around hitters of the 1990s. Even well-circulated PSA 8 copies trade around $40.

Another power-hitting stalwart, this time from the Cincinnati Reds, is slugging first baseman Todd Benzinger. Though he only played six seasons, Benzinger put on impressive power displays in the late 1980s. In pristine PSA 10 condition, his starring 1989 Fleer card can earn $100-150. PSA 8 copies still attract $25-40. Reds fans take special collector interest in Benzinger memorabilia.

Naturally, finding any of these key 1989 Fleer cards in perfect mint condition is very difficult and becoming increasingly rare over time. But even well-loved worn copies still hold value when compared to most other vintage sets. With stars like Griffey, Glavine, Maddux, Thomas and others, the 1989 Fleer roster has proven to stand the test of time in the collecting marketplace. While not the most monumental rookie year class, this set showcases many future Hall of Famers and is an important one for collectors to seek.