The 1986 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable sets from the 1980s. While most commons from the set hold little value, there are several standout rookie cards and Hall of Famer cards that can be quite valuable, depending on the player and the card’s condition. Here are some of the top 1986 Topps baseball cards that are worth pursuing:

Roger Clemens Rookie Card (#181): Clemens’ rookie is arguably the most valuable card from the ’86 set. Fresh off winning the AL Cy Young Award in 1986, Clemens was already dominating baseball. In near mint condition, this iconic rookie card can fetch $1,000-$2,000. Higher grades like mint 9 can sell for $3,000+.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (#500): Maddux burst onto the scene in 1986 and would go on to have one of the greatest pitching careers ever. His Topps rookie in near mint is worth $300-$500 but can reach $1,000+ in mint condition or higher. The fact it’s numbered to 500 also adds significance.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (#584): Another Hall of Fame hurler, Glavine debuted in 1986 and would go on to amass over 300 wins. High-grade copies of his rookie are quite scarce, with mint 9s selling for $500-800 depending on market conditions.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#112): While Junior’s rookie debuted in 1989 Upper Deck, the 1986 Topps set contains Griffey’s earliest card. His sophomore season in the majors showed him developing into a five-tool star. Near mint copies sell for $150-300 generally.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card (#650): Alomar would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Blue Jays and Indians in the 1990s. His ’86 Topps rookie in gem mint 10 condition has sold for over $1,000, so high grades hold great value.

Barry Larkin Rookie Card (#628): Larkin was just starting to break out in 1986 for the Reds. The shortstop would go on to win an MVP award and get inducted into Cooperstown. His rookie has sold for $400-600 in NM-MT condition.

Mark McGwire Rookie Card (#256): Big Mac was still early in his career in ’86 but showed his tremendous power. Near mint copies of this future home run king’s first card sell for $75-150. Higher grades bring more.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#416): The Big Hurt’s debut came in 1986 as he started showing why he’d eventually win back-to-back AL MVPs. Near mint copies can sell for $50-100 depending on the market.

Kirby Puckett Rookie Card (#650): The beloved Puckett was still developing in his second MLB season. Moderately played rookie copies sell for $30-60, with near mint bringing $75-150 based on conditions.

Nolan Ryan Card (#474): While not his true rookie card, this marks one of the Express’ earlier cards as he pitched for the Astros. An iconic power pitcher on any team, near mint ’86 Ryan cards sell for $40-80.

Dwight Gooden Card (#382): Gooden was coming off his historic 1985 ROY/CY Young campaign and still in his prime. Near mint condition copies of his second year card sell for $25-50 typically.

Gary Carter Card (#506): An eight-time All-Star and gold glover at catcher, Carter was with the Mets during their mid-80s resurgence. Near mint Carter cards earn around $20-40 all said.

Ozzie Smith Card (#210): The Wizard was one of the most exciting defensive shortstops ever. High grade copies of this future Hall of Famer’s older cards can demand $15-30 on the market.

High-grade rookie cards and early cards featuring Hall of Famers from the 1986 Topps set are always in demand from collectors. Other factors like specific players’ career success or fame along with the overall condition/grade of a single card will affect its market price level. While most 1986 Topps cards are relatively inexpensive, with patience and a watchful eye deals can still be found on pricier keys from this iconic vintage release. Carefully researching conditions and recent sales is key for anyone pursuing investment-worthy material from the 1986 set.