Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for decades, with some rare vintage cards fetching millions of dollars at auction. Whether you have a collection from your childhood or are just starting out, staying up to date on the current values of cards can help you determine which ones are worth keeping versus trading or selling. This baseball cards price guide for 2019 provides valuable insights into the factors that influence card prices and highlights some of the most valuable cards from different eras.

One of the primary determinants of a card’s value is its condition or state of preservation. Near mint (NM) condition means the card is in excellent condition with only slight signs of wear. Mint (MT) condition means the card is in pristine condition as if freshly pulled from a pack. Obviously, cards in mint condition will command higher prices than those that are well-worn. The Sporting News grades cards on a 1-10 scale, with a “10” being mint. Most collectors seek 7s or higher when buying vintage cards.

In addition to condition, rarity plays a huge role. Common base cards from recent sets may only be worth a quarter, but scarce rookie cards or parallel variations can fetch hundreds or thousands. Iconic players also affect value, as cards of legends like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, or Mike Trout will demand top dollar regardless of year. Autograph and memorabilia cards featuring game-used pieces also gain premiums. With all these factors in mind, here are some of the most valuable baseball cards on the market today based on recent sales:

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (MT): Considered the crown jewel of cards, one ungraded PSA 8 copy sold for $2.88 million in 2018. Even well-worn copies can bring six figures.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner (NM-MT): The most iconic and sought-after of all cards. A PSA 8.5 copy sold for $3.12 million in 2016. Lower grades still sell for $500k+.

1916 Sporting News Babe Ruth (EX): One of the rarest Ruth cards. A PSA 3.5 copy brought $756,000 at auction in 2017.

1933 Goudey #53 Jimmie Foxx (MT): A true key vintage card. One PSA 8 copy sold for a staggering $609,375 in 2016.

1957 Topps Ted Williams (MT): One of the best-known and valuable post-war cards. A PSA 9 copy sold for $253,450 in 2018.

1998 Bowman’s Best Refractor Chipper Jones #12 (MT): Jones’ ultra-rare rookie refractor. A PSA 10 copy sold for $100,800 in 2018.

2009 Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects Auto Patch Mike Trout #44 (MT): Trout’s prized prospect card with a jersey swatch. A PSA 10 copy sold for $93,600 in 2018.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. #1 (MT): Griffey’s iconic rookie card. A PSA 10 copy sold for $90,600 in 2018.

2011 Topps Update 5 Tool Mike Trout #US-MT (MT): Trout’s true rookie card. A PSA 10 copy sold for $86,400 in 2018.

1956 Topps Sandy Koufax (MT): A true key rookie. A PSA 8.5 copy sold for $81,000 in 2018.

While those vintage and rare modern gems fetch top dollar, there are still plenty of affordable collector options. Common base cards from the 1970s and ’80s can be found for under $1 each. Complete sets from the 1990s sell for $50-100. Autographs and memorabilia cards of current stars are also reasonable. And bargain bins are full of discount boxes holding potential treasures. With patience and some research, you can build a fun and valuable collection without breaking the bank. Condition, players, and rarity will always drive prices, so pay attention to those factors whether buying, selling, or trading your baseball cards.