The 1988 Score baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic release sets from the late 1980s. While not as rare or valuable assets from the pre-war era like T206 or E90, the 1988 Score set featured some highly sought after rookie cards that have increased dramatically in value over the past 30+ years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the 1988 Score baseball cards that have gained the most value based on their current average sold prices through auction sites like PWCC, Goldin Auctions, and eBay.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card – The Griffey Jr. rookie from 1988 Score is arguably the most valuable card from the entire set. Fresh off being the number one pick in the 1987 MLB draft by the Seattle Mariners, Griffey Jr. was already garnering significant hype as a can’t-miss prospect. That hype translated to his rookie cards, with the 1988 Score RC being the most coveted by collectors. In near mint to mint condition, examples of this legendary rookie have sold for as much as $25,000 in recent years. Even well-worn copies in played condition can reach the $500-1000 range. Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is still regarded as one of the most talented outfielders in MLB history.
Tom Glavine Rookie Card – Another highly sought after rookie from the 1988 Score set is Braves lefty Tom Glavine. Like Griffey, Glavine became a surefire Hall of Famer and one of the best pitchers of his era. While not as well-known as some other big name rookies, the Glavine RC has gained significant value in the collectors market. Near mint copies have sold for $1500-$2000, with gem mint examples reaching up to $4000. Even in lower grades, there is strong demand that keeps prices elevated compared to most 1980s/1990s commons. Glavine won 305 games in his storied career and 2 Cy Young awards.
Greg Maddux Rookie Card – Rounding out the prestigious rookie trio from 1988 Score is Greg Maddux. While his rookie year stats were not eye-popping like Griffey or Glavine, Maddux went on to establish himself as possibly the greatest control/finesse pitcher in MLB history. He won 4 Cy Young awards and 355 career games over a 23 year career spent mostly with the Braves and Cubs. The Maddux RC is highly regarded by collectors, with mint 9 copies selling in the $800-1000 range in recent sales. Near mint 8s have sold as high as $500 as well given increasing scarcity and demand. Like Glavine, the cachet of a Hall of Fame pitcher rookie drivessignificant collector interest in the Maddux 1988 Score card.
Barry Bonds – While not technically a rookie card since Bonds played in 1986-1987, his first card in a Score uniform and as a regular starter is the 1988 issue. Bonds would go on to have one of the greatest careers in MLB history and in the late 1980s/early 1990s was already showing signs of superstardom. High grade 1988 Barry Bonds Score cards have reached the $300-500 price range in auction. There is strong collector demand for early Bonds issues before the infamous steroid era.
Roberto Alomar Rookie Card – The smooth defensive second baseman Roberto Alomar broke into the Majors with the San Diego Padres in 1988. His flashy rookie season debut made the Alomar 1988 Score RC a hot commodity. In gem mint condition, examples have sold for $350 or more. The Alomar rookie remains one of the most visually appealing and desirable cards from the set outside of the big three rookies. While he never put up the huge offensive numbers of Griffey/Bonds/Maddux/Glavine, Alomar was a talented player who had a long successful career.
Mark McGwire Rookie Card – Before the attention he received in the late 1990s home run chase, Mark McGwire was already creating buzz as a young power prospect in Oakland. His 1988 Score RC shows a clean shaven McGwire in an Athletics uniform. In top grades, examples have reached up to $200-250. McGwire was an extremely popular young player at the time which created strong initial demand for his rookie card. Of course, the PED controversy that followed somewhat dampened enthusiasm. Still, there are collectors who covet any McGwire RC.
Roberto Clemente – This is one of the latest career-phase cards included of the legendary Pirates right fielder. Tragically, Clemente died in a plane crash on December 31, 1972 while attempting to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua at the age of 38. Any collectible depicting Clemente holds significant historical appeal. Higher graded 1988 Score Clemente cards have sold in the $150-200 range. He remains one of the most beloved players in MLB history.
Nolan Ryan – At age 41 in 1988, the flame-throwing Ryan was still racking up strikeouts for the Astros. His card value is mostly nostalgia driven, appealing to anyone who remembers watching “The Ryan Express” dominate well into his late 30s/early 40s. Higher graded 1988 Score Ryan cards fetch $75-100. He remains the all-time strikeout king with 5,714 and possessed one of the game’s most legendary fastballs.
Ozzie Smith – Considered one of the greatest defensive shortstops ever, “The Wizard” was in his prime with the Cardinals in 1988. His smooth fielding and highlight reel plays made him a fan favorite. Top graded 1988 Score Ozzie Smith cards have reached the $75-100 price point as well. His incredible career shifted the perception of what a shortstop could do.
While not challenging the rarities and values from the pre-war tobacco era, the 1988 Score set stands out for featuring some true future Hall of Famers as rookies. The Griffey Jr., Glavine and Maddux rookie cards lead the way for collector demand and investment potential long term. Even 30+ years later, condition and complete examples from this classic release remain appealing to both vintage collectors and investors keen to hold iconic pieces from the late 1980s/early 90s sports memorabilia boom. Strong provenance and visual appeal are crucial to maximizing values discussed.
