The 1987 Topps set is considered one of the most valuable and collectible sets from the late 1980s. It featured athletes such as Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, and Roger Clemens who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. While most cards from the set hold relatively modest value today, there are a handful that can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on condition. Let’s take a more detailed look at some of the high-value 1987 Topps cards collectors should be on the lookout for:
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (card #121): Widely considered one of the most iconic rookie cards of all time, the Griffey Jr. is the clear star of the 1987 Topps set. Griffey would go on to have a legendary career and is now enshrined in the Hall of Fame, making this an extremely desirable rookie card for collectors. High-grade Griffey Jr. rookies in near-mint to mint condition can sell for over $1,000 today. Pristine mint examples have even broken the $10,000 mark at auction.
Mark McGwire Rookie Card (card #391): McGwire burst onto the scene with an impressive rookie season and quickly became one of the game’s premier power hitters. His 1987 Topps rookie is a highly coveted piece for collectors, especially after McGwire went on to set the single-season home run record. Mid-grade McGwire rookies often sell for hundreds of dollars, while higher graded copies can reach over $1,000.
Roger Clemens Rookie Card (card #198): As one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Clemens’ rookie card is a must-have for collectors. He was already starring for the Boston Red Sox in 1987 and continued dominating hitters right up until his retirement. Mid-grade Clemens rookies usually sell in the $300-500 range, with high grades potentially reaching $1,000 or more.
Jose Canseco Rookie Card (card #113): Canseco’s 40-40 season in 1988 made him a media darling and true superstar. As such, his rookie card is one of the key short prints from the 1987 set. Higher graded versions often sell for $200-500 in today’s market.
Ozzie Smith (card #534): Known as the “Wizard of Oz”, Smith was already a premier defensive shortstop by 1987. His flashy style made him hugely popular. The card is notable for its eye-catching photo and relative scarcity in top condition. Near-mint to mint Ozzie Smith cards can reach $150-300.
Eric Davis Rookie Card (card #468): Davis was a superstar during his peak but injuries cut his career short. Still, his 1987 rookie card showcases his immense skills. Higher graded versions often sell in the $150-250 range today.
Other notable cards from the 1987 Topps set that can fetch $100 or more depending on condition include rookie cards for Wally Joyner, Barry Larkin, and Darren Daulton, plus stars like Dwight Gooden, Kirby Puckett, Orel Hershiser, and more. With the rise of online bidding and interest in vintage baseball cards, many key 1987 Topps cards have seen their values increase significantly compared to just a few years ago. With so many future Hall of Famers represented, the 1987 Topps set remains a highly collectible and investment-worthy release for baseball card enthusiasts.
