The 1991 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While card values tanked overall during this time period due to overproduction, a select few rookie cards and star players from the ’91 Fleer set have stood the test of time and remain highly coveted by collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best and most valuable cards collectors seek out from the 1991 Fleer release.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card #234

Arguably the single most valuable and sought after card from the 1991 Fleer set is the frank Thomas rookie card. As one of the most prolific hitters of the 1990s, Thomas went on to have a Hall of Fame career and win back-to-back American League MVP awards in 1993-1994 with the Chicago White Sox. His rookie card from the ’91 Fleer issue is the one that started it all and remains a true “holy grail” for collectors across the hobby. In mint condition, PSA 10 examples of the Frank Thomas rookie have sold for over $20,000 at auction. Even well-centered, near mint copies in PSA 8 or 9 condition can still fetch thousands. This iconic cardboard launched countless collections and remains the crown jewel for many Thomas and ’91 Fleer set builders alike.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card #116

While it may not quite reach the lofty heights of the Frank Thomas rookie, the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from the ’91 Fleer set is undoubtedly another true heavyweight in the world of baseball cards. Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame playing career as arguably the most exciting and skilled center fielder of his generation. Like Thomas, his rookie card started it all and is one of the single most iconic and valuable cards from the entire junk wax era. PSA 10 examples can reach well into the five-figure territory, with PSA 9s still trading in the thousands. Few rookie cards have withstood the test of time and maintained value like the Griffey, making it an absolutely essential piece for any serious vintage baseball card collection.

Don Mattingly #158

As one of the true superstars of the 1980s, Don Mattingly’s prolific career was cut short by chronic back injuries. His popularity and on-field production in his prime make his ’91 Fleer card a highly sought after veteran piece from the set. Mattingly was the 1985 American League MVP and a perennial All-Star and Gold Glove first baseman for George Steinbrenner’s Yankees. His smooth lefty swing made him a fan favorite for years. High grade copies of Mattingly’s ’91 Fleer card still have four-figure values for serious collectors looking to add a true legend of the sport from this iconic release.

Nolan Ryan #243

As one of the most intimidating and accomplished pitchers in baseball history, it’s no wonder Nolan Ryan’s card is a standout subset from 1991 Fleer. Ryan was in the latter stages of his career when this card was issued but remained one of the most dominating hurlers the game had ever seen. By 1991, he already held every major career pitching record imaginable. His blazing fastball and record 2793 career strikeouts make him a baseball icon. The Ryan card is a must-have for any collection focusing on the all-time greats from the junk wax era. High grade examples still routinely sell for well over $100.

Roberto Alomar #132

As a 12-time All-Star, 10-time Gold Glove winner and one of the finest defensive second basemen to ever play the game, Roberto Alomar had a Hall of Fame career. He was just entering his peak years with the Toronto Blue Jays when the ’91 Fleer set was released. Alomar went on to win a World Series with Toronto in 1993 and hit over .300 nine times during his career. His superb skills make his rookie issue card a valuable piece from this set worthy of any collection, even after struggles later in his career. Condition graded versions still sell for hundreds.

Cal Ripken Jr. #244

Arguably the biggest star of the 1990s, Cal Ripken Jr.’s 1991 Fleer card captured him in the midst of his record-breaking consecutive game streak. By 1991, Ripken had already established himself as the anchor of the Baltimore Orioles franchise for over a decade. He went on to break Lou Gehrig’s iconic “Iron Man” record of 2,130 straight games played in 1995. Highlights like this made Ripken a household name and one of the true goodwill ambassadors of the sport during his era. His ’91 Fleer card remains a stable, solidly valued piece for any baseball collection.

Ozzie Smith #268

As arguably the greatest defensive shortstop in baseball history and a key member of the 1982 World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals, Ozzie Smith transcended traditional offensive stats with his wizardry in the field. Nicknamed “The Wizard,” Smith won a record 13 straight Gold Glove awards from 1980-1992 and dazzled crowds for years with his acrobatics and leaping backhand grabs. By 1991, he was already a four-time All-Star and the leader of “Whiteyball.” High grade versions of Smith’s ’91 Fleer card still sell for over $100 with regularity due to his popularity and importance to both the era and countless 1980s Cardinals squads.

Randy Johnson #324

While just entering his prime in 1991, “The Big Unit’s” immense talent was already apparent by the time Fleer captured him early in his Seattle Mariners career. Standing a towering 6’10”, Randy Johnson went on to rack up over 4,800 career strikeouts, win five Cy Young Awards and lead the Arizona Diamondbacks to a World Series title in 2001. His imposing presence and left arm electric stuff make his ’91 Fleer RC a long-term stable card. Even in PSA 8 condition, examples still sell for $50-75 with some frequency due to Johnson’s all-time greatness and Hall of Fame credentials.

This covers some of the most prominent, valuable and desirable players collectors seek out from the 1991 Fleer baseball card release. While much of the junk wax era plummeted in value, true stars and iconic rookies like Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr. and more stand tall from this beloved issue. Their on-field greatness and sustained collecting interest keep these particular pieces as bright shining stars in the world of vintage baseball cards over 30 years later.