The 1986 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the 1980s. It was the final year that O-Pee-Chee, the Canadian producer of Topps baseball cards, produced its own distinct set before switching to reprinting the standard Topps cards starting in 1987. So the 1986 set marks a significant milestone and collectors appreciate its historical importance and nostalgia. Like most vintage sets, the condition and rarity of individual cards greatly impacts their worth. Here are some of the most valuable and sought after 1986 O-Pee-Chee baseball cards:

Ryne Sandberg (#174) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the set, the Sandberg ranks as one of the elite rookie cards of all time. In pristine mint condition it can fetch over $10,000. Even well-worn copies still sell for $500-1000 due to Sandberg’s Hall of Fame career and the card’s iconic status. The gleaming gold border and “RotY” (Rookie of the Year) marking only add to its allure.

Mark McGwire (#294) – As one of the original pieces in the collection of any serious baseball card investor, McGwire’s rookie commands big money in high grades. Near mint to mint copies range from $1500-3000. His massive success and racing to break home run records in the late 1990s cemented Big Mac as one of the game’s all-time great sluggers despite the steroids controversies.

Roger Clemens (#198) – The Rocket’s first O-Pee-Chee issue is amazingly valuable for a pitcher’s card, often rivaling or surpassing position players. Gem mint 10 specimens have sold for over $4000. Clemens won the 1986 AL Cy Young and went on to dominate for over two decades, capturing 7 career Cy Young Awards.

Will Clark (#114) – Known as “The Thrill” early in his career, Clark made a huge splash in 1986 by batting .333 and launching 22 home runs as a rookie. High quality specimens trade hands for $700-1250 depending on condition. His impressive MLB tenure and Bay Area fanfare uphold his cards’ appeal.

Greg Maddux (#262) – Before emerging as one of the best pitchers ever in the 1990s, Maddux showed immense promise with a strong rookie campaign in 1986. Pristine copies can net $800-1500 with 4 Cy Youngs under his belt. The unassuming demeanor and accuracy of his control gave him universal respect around the league.

Barry Bonds (#276) – While his post-career reputation is controversial, Bonds stormed onto the scene in 1986 with 24 homers and a dark horse ROY case. Near-mint versions fetch $500-1000 given his all-time single season and career home run records. The elite physical tools he displayed early in Pittsburgh aroused excitement.

Kevin Mitchell (#163) – Mitchell took the NL by storm in 1986 with a .291 average, 17 homers, and 65 RBIs playing half a season as a rookie. This breakout performance made his card very desirable then and its price remains high today in the $500-800 range.

Dwight Gooden (#45) – “Doc” Gooden was theNL’s biggest star in 1985 but slumped slightly in ’86 amid injury. Still, his mystique endures and top condition copies remain at $350-600 as one of the most iconic pitchers of the decade.

Bob Horner (#113) – Horner clubbed 23 homers in his age 23 season and provided exciting talent for an improving Atlanta Braves club. Near mint ratings command $250-500 given his promising career arc cut short by injuries.

In addition to premier rookie issues and stars, there are several other noteworthy pieces of the ’86 O-Pee-Chee puzzle that can reach three figures depending on condition ratings. Cal Ripken’s ubiquitous #430 base issue consistently sells for $100-200raw. Ozzie Smith’s slick defensive wizardry keeps the #288 in steady demand around $150. Nolan Ryan’s status as a living legend maintains the #313 base card at $100-150 levels as well.

The 1986 O-Pee-Chee set perfectly encapsulates the excitement of 1980’s baseball. Its stars like Sandberg, McGwire, and Gooden were just breaking in but hinted at the greatness to come. Every card bears the nostalgic stylistic flair of the decade in its visual design too. For savvy collectors and investors, key singles hold immense long term appreciation potential. The historic significance as the Canadian printing’s swan song only enhances this cult classic’s staying power for decades to come.