When it comes to collecting vintage baseball cards, there are certain standouts that typically rise above the rest in terms of desirability, condition, and value. While every collector’s interests may vary, there are some classic cards from the early 20th century that have proven to maintain their collectibility and appreciation over decades. In this in-depth guide, we will explore some of the best old baseball cards to consider adding to your collection if you have the budget.
One of the most iconic and sought-after baseball cards of all time is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Widely considered the “Mona Lisa” of sports cards due to its rarity, condition sensitivity, and association with one of the early game’s biggest stars, a PSA Gem Mint 10 example recently sold for $6.6 million, setting records. Even well-worn low-grade examples in the PSA 1-3 range can fetch five-figures. What makes the Wagner so desirable is that only 50-200 are believed to have survived of the estimated 60 that were printed. As one of the earliest “star cards,” it has become a symbol of the entire hobby.
Another extremely rare and valuable early issue is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth rookie card. Like the Wagner, condition is key, as the fragile cardboard stock was prone to damage over a century. The finest-known PSA NM-MT 8 sold for $5.2 million in 2016. Even low-grade examples still command six-figures. What’s interesting about Ruth’s rookie is that it was issued during his playing days for the Baltimore Orioles minor league team, making it one of the earliest baseball cards to feature a future Hall of Famer before reaching the majors. Only a small number are believed to exist.
For collectors seeking famous rookies from the golden age of the 1930s-50s at somewhat more affordable prices, there are some excellent options to consider. The 1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig is highly regarded for its striking design showing the Iron Horse swinging, with PSA Gem Mint 10s bringing around $300,000. His 1934 Goudey is also very collectible. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie in top-grade can approach or exceed $1 million, but high-grade versions are still six-figures. The 1952 Bowman Color Mantle rookie has also gained popularity.
Two of the most iconic and aesthetically pleasing vintage cards are the 1909-11 Imperial Tobacco Winning Pitchers Eddie Plank and the 1911 Browns Cracker Jack Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown. Both capture the players in beautiful action photos and have strong eye appeal. High-grade examples can reach $150,000 as key pieces of early tobacco era and Cracker Jack issues. The 1911/12 Cracker Jack Nap Lajoie is another highly coveted early release showing “The Frenchman” at bat.
For those seeking Hall of Fame stars of the deadball era, the 1914 Cracker Jack Walter Johnson and the 1915 Cracker Jack Grover Cleveland Alexander are highly collectible choices. Johnson’s dominance as one of the greatest pitchers ever and his stoic image on the card make it a standout, while Alexander’s distinctive windup pose gives his issue visual impact. Condition is especially important for the 1914s, but choice examples still sell for five-figures.
Two of the most visually stunning and colorful early Goudey cards are the 1933 Lou Gehrig and the 1934 Dizzy Dean. Gehrig’s iconic swinging pose and bright blue and red border make it jump off the shelf. Dean’s colorful action shot gives it a real “wow factor.” High-grade versions regularly sell in the low six-figures. Another highly regarded 1930s Goudey issue is the 1933 Jimmie Foxx, which captures “The Beast” in a powerful batting stance. Top-graded examples trade hands for $50,000+.
When it comes to the post-war era, the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is undoubtedly the most coveted rookie on the vintage market. As mentioned, pristine PSA/SGC Gem Mint 10 examples have reached and surpassed $1 million. But there are other 1950s stars worth strong consideration as well. The 1957 Topps Willie Mays and the 1958 Topps Hank Aaron rookie are both highly collectible choices that can reach six-figures in top-grades. The 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson is also a highly respected trailblazing issue.
While the ultra high-end cards will likely always be out of reach for most collectors, there are still many desirable early 20th century baseball cards that can provide a solid long-term investment opportunity, especially if acquired and preserved in high-end condition grades. The issues highlighted here represent some of the best options when considering blue-chip investments from the formative years of the hobby. With care and research, finding choice examples in the $5,000-$50,000 range is very achievable for advanced collectors. Just holding onto them for decades will likely result in strong appreciation.
