The 1989 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues of the late 1980s. Produced during baseball’s “Steroid Era,” the ‘89 Topps set features several stars whose careers would break records and span multiple decades. Cards from this release that showcase rookie sensations or capture legendary players at the peak of their powers routinely demand high prices from collectors.
Leading the way is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card, one of the most iconic in the modern era. Drafted first overall by the Seattle Mariners in 1987, Griffey made his Major League debut in 1989 and immediately launched one of the purest swings baseball has ever seen. Showcasing “The Kid” in his inaugural big league season, the Griffey rookie is arguably the greatest of its kind from the late 20th century. Near-mint copies in pristine condition can fetch over $10,000 today.
Roberto Alomar’s rookie also remains hugely desired from the ‘89 set. One of the finest second basemen in history, Alomar won a Gold Glove in just his first full season and went on to achieve banner numbers offensively as well. His card highlighting a breakthrough rookie campaign for the San Diego Padres is valued around $500-$1,000 in top shape.
Another star on the rise, Barry Bonds had broken out in recent years but truly began to establish himself as a superstar and perennial MVP candidate in 1989. Leading the National League in home runs and walks while finishing second in batting average, Bonds‘ ascension to elite status is documented on his ‘89 issue. Graded gem mint 10 copies sell in the $2,000 range.
Perhaps the most hallowed name in all of sports, Michael Jordan had just secured his third NBA championship and Finals MVP award in 1989. While basketball was clearly his first love, his minor league baseball tenure with the Birmingham Barons the following year made his lone Topps baseball card ultra desirable. An unforgettable crossover collectible, a pristine MJ football poses at $3,000 minimum.
For fans of power hitters, the Mark McGwire card stands out significantly as well. Already with two straight 30+ home run seasons under his belt playing for the A’s, “Big Mac” launched 33 long balls in ‘89 foreshadowing the mammoth shots to come. Highly-graded versions approach $1,000 in value today.
Two other Athletics, Jose Canseco and Dennis Eckersley, possess very notable ‘89 Topps issues too. Canseco was coming off back-to-back 40 HR, 40 SB years capturing both the MVP and Rookie of the Year in ‘86. He had become the face of Oakland’s “Bash Brothers” and remained a major star entering his age 26 season. Top-notch copies hover around $500.
As for Eckersley, 1989 marked his first of four straight seasons as the American League’s top relief pitcher. Having reinvented himself as one of history’s premier closers after struggling as a starter, his switch to the bullpen was immortalized on his Topps RC. Near-mint examples bring in $300-$400 in the current market.
Moving to pitching aces, Dwight Gooden’s dominance was unquestioned after winning the ‘85 Cy Young. He followed with another stellar year going 17-6 with a 2.84 ERA and 218 Ks for the Mets at age 24. A star in his prime before personal issues derailed his career, excellent Gooden rookie presentations reach $500 price tags.
Nolan Ryan remained the undisputed king of strikeouts as he entered his age 42 season with the Texas Rangers in 1989. Nearing the end of a record-setting career, his ‘89 Topps recognizes what was likely his final great season of 257 Ks. Pristine copies are valued at $300-350.
The 1989 Topps set endures because it defined so many Hall of Famers and future statsheet stuffers during important moments in their careers. Rookies like Griffey, Alomar, and stars ascending like Bonds, McGwire and Canseco made lasting impacts. Meanwhile, legends like Jordan, Ryan, and Eckersley in the prime or later stages leave important stamps. When found in top condition over 30 years later, these seminal cards continue to excite collectors with meaningful pieces of baseball history.
