The 1987 Topps baseball card set holds much value and nostalgia for collectors and fans alike from that era. The ’87 Topps issue featured 660 total cards including base rookie cards, stars of the day, and insert sets that added to the excitement of the release. Over 30 years later, certain rare and sought-after pieces from the set still command premium prices on the hobby marketplace. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards to be on the hunt for.
Kicking off our list at the number five spot is none other than Boston Red Sox legend Roger Clemens on his Topps rookie card (card #329). Clemens would go on to win a record seven Cy Young Awards and cement his place in Cooperstown, but collectors love having this early piece chronicling his debut 1984 season with the Sox. In top graded gem mint condition, examples can pull in over $1,000. Still an affordable option for the average collector to own a piece of Rocket history.
At number four is Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Tom Glavine on his rookie issue (card #450). Like Clemens, Glavine enjoyed huge success that spanned over two decades in the majors. He won 305 career games and two Cy Youngs of his own. High quality PSA/BGS 10 copies of his ’87 Topps RC consistently sell in the $1,200-$1,500 range online. It remains one of the more coveted and recognizable rookie cards from the entire set.
Taking the third spot is “Nails” himself, Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley on his card from his days with the Boston Red Sox (card #99). Eck would reinvent himself as one of the best closers in baseball later on. In pristine mint condition, this key piece can reach up to $2,000 due to his premier status. Finding it in such lofty grade is no small task, however.
At second in line for 1987 Topps baseball cards value is Toronto Blue Jays superstar pitcher Dave Stieb on his true rookie card (card #274). Only 125 copies of Stieb’s RC were ever produced by Topps, making it one of the true rare short prints from the ’87 set. In top condition with strong centering, a PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 grade Stieb can go for astronomical sums upwards of $3,500. A true diamond in the rough for fortunate collectors.
And finally, coming in at number one is none other than Chicago Cubs great Ryne Sandberg, pictured on his iconic “Back Flip” card (card #180). The graceful image captured the essence of Sandberg’s incredible talent and sparked part of the card’s massive popularity. In pristine condition, a Sandberg “Back Flip” routinely brings over $4,000, with a record sale reaching an astounding $16,000 back in 2017. It remains the undisputed crown jewel of the 1987 Topps baseball card set 36 years after production.
Some other notable valuable ’87 Topps cards that don’t make the top five but still demand big bucks include Boston Red Sox star Wade Boggs (card #13), Detroit Tigers power hitter Darrell Evans (card #234), and Philadelphia Phillies ace Steve Bedrosian (card #480). Each have generated sales upwards of $1,000+ in top grade.
Rookies like San Diego Padres pitcher Andy Benes (card #336), Seattle Mariners outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. (card #561), and San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Kelly Downs (card #399) also hold significance. Condition is key, but top-graded versions routinely earn $500-$800 on the market.
While any complete 1987 Topps baseball card set holds value, certain key rare and star player issues have proven to stand the test of time. Having the financial means to acquire true pristine graded gems like a Sandberg or Stieb will be elusive for most. But hunting the mid-range $500-$1,000 cards offers fun and affordable collecting opportunities for anyone to enjoy owning a piece of their favorite ballplayers from the late ’80s MLB seasons. The ’87 Topps set endures as a classic in the hobby.
