The 1991 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s. While not the flashiest set from that era, 1991 Donruss featured some true superstar players and rookie cards that have become extremely valuable over the ensuing decades. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable and sought after cards from the 1991 Donruss collection.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1991 Donruss set, the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card is the undeniable star. Junior was already wowing fans with his dazzling play and was primed to become one of the game’s all-time greats. His iconic smiling pose made this one of the most memorable and collectible rookie cards ever. In near mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $500-1500. Pristine mint copies in a PSA 10 or BGS/SGC black label grade have reached astronomical prices, like one that sold for $26,100 in 2021.
Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#277) – Like Griffey, Frank Thomas arrived on the scene in 1991 and immediately began proving he was destined for superstardom. His cartoon-like muscles and dominance at the plate produced a very collectible rookie card. PSA 9 copies commonly sell for $150-400, while a PSA 10 can bring $1000-2000. One mint Thomas rookie even achieved $11,250 in a Goldin Auctions sale in 2022.
Greg Maddux (#512) – While not technically a rookie card, the 1991 Donruss Maddux is one of the more iconic cards of his early career years. He was already establishing himself as one of baseball’s best pitchers. High grades in the $400-700 range are typical, with a PSA 10 potentially reaching $1500 or more due to his Hall of Fame caliber career.
Roberto Alomar (#71) – Another star player in his early prime, Roberto Alomar’s attractive 1991 Donruss photo and accomplished career have made his card a steady riser. Expected prices are $75-150 in PSA 9 and $300-600 for a pristine PSA 10.
Cal Ripken Jr. (#519) – Arguably the most durable and consistent player of the decade, Ripken’s cardboard was very popular in the early 90s. His 1991 Donruss is a classic. Graded versions trade hands between $80-250 depending on condition.
Brady Anderson (#183) – A highly sought after star rookie from the era. Anderson put together a couple big power seasons right after this card came out, fueling collector demand. Higher grades in the $100-300 range are common finds on the secondary market.
Others to Watch – Additional valuable and recalled 1991 Donruss include Ozzie Smith (#253), Kirby Puckett (#267), and Roberto Kelly (#199). Each has the potential for $50-150 raw or graded depending on the player and condition. Strong rookies like Chuck Knoblauch (#469) and David Justice (#450) can also deliver for savvy collectors.
When assessing condition, the usual PSA/BGS/SGC labels apply for this set as well. Keys are sharp corners, no creases or bends, and bright colors without fading or darkening. Even minor flaws usually disqualify a card from achieving the lofty PSA 10 status. But anything from PSA 8 to PSA 9 in the big name rookies and stars described above can make for a very rewarding long term investment or addition to any collection.
The 1991 Donruss set brings a real dose of nostalgia and reminds us of baseball’s great talents from that exciting early 90s period. With its mix of rookie cards, established names, and memorable photography, 1991 Donruss endures as one of the most essential sets from the modern era. Savvy collectors know that condition graded versions of stars like Griffey, Thomas, Ripken, and Maddux could be a very worthwhile long term hold and appreciate dramatically further as the years pass. For those able to acquire a true treasure like a PSA 10 Griffey Jr. rookie, the rewards may be unlimited.
