The 1989 Fleer baseball card set was issued during Barry Bonds’ first full season and Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie campaign. Both players would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and be considered two of the greatest players of all time. As such, their rookie cards from the 1989 Fleer set hold significant value. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key cards and their estimated worth from the 778-card release.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card #249: Widely considered one of if not the most valuable rookie card in the modern era, Griffey’s dazzling smile and sweet swing made him an immediate fan favorite. In pristine near-mint to mint condition (NM-MT), his rookie commands prices north of $1500 regularly. Well-centered copies in gem mint 10 grade have reached the $10,000+ range in recent auctions. The card captured Junior in his debut season with the Seattle Mariners and remains one of the most visually appealing and desirable issues ever made.
Barry Bonds Rookie Card #249: Like Griffey, Bonds was one of the best young talents baseball had seen in years. His power potential was on full display in his initial campaign for the Pittsburgh Pirates. High-grade versions in the 9-10 range can bring $500-700, with a rare ungraded copy selling for over $1000 back in 2013. Not quite as valuable long term as the Griffey due to character concerns in his later career, but Bonds’ rookie signifies one of the game’s all-time prolific hitters.
Sandy Koufax Autograph Card #80: Fleer was known for including Premier Player autographs in their releases, and the Dodgers’ legend was one of the highlighted signers in ’89. Any autographed Koufax item is highly coveted, and this particular issue routinely fetches $300-400 in top condition. A flawless 10 grade specimen could push $800-1000 given growing collectibility of vintage memorabilia with accompanying signatures.
Ozzie Smith #338: The Wizard was a longtime fan-favorite for his slick fielding at shortstop, collecting a record 13 straight Gold Gloves. This card captures Ozzie in the midst of his stellar defensive prime with the St. Louis Cardinals. Highly-centered examples in the 7-9 range can sell for $60-100, with gem mint copies bringing slightly more due to Smith’s enduring popularity.
Nolan Ryan #526: Express was still going strong for the Texas Rangers in ’89, on the way tohis unprecedented 7th career no-hitter. Any card showing the flamethrower is a must-have for collectors. Near mint 7’s go for $30-50, with 8’s and 9’s in the $60-80 range based on recent completed sales. The Hall of Famer’s dominant stuff and historic accomplishments ensure interest in items like this Fleer issue.
Cal Ripken Jr. #329: Not a true “rookie” since Cal had already claimed an MVP and played over 1000 games, but this served as his first card in the Fleer set following years with Topps. Any early Ripken showing him as the steady, durable force at short and third garners attention. A mint 9 could pull $40-60 with 7-8 grades listed between $15-30.
Greg Maddux #480: Mad Dog was just starting to establish himself as one of the top young arms in baseball. His pinpoint control would make him a legend. High-grade copies like a PSA 10 have cracked six-figures, showcasing his Hall of Fame value prior to dominating the 1990s. Near mint versions trade hands in the $20-40 range.
Other notable cards include Will Clark (#353), Toronto Blue Jays team card (#350), Jose Canseco (#411), Roger Clemens (#451), and Frank Thomas’ rookie (#601) among many others. Complete team and player sets in pristine condition can easily exceed $1000 depending on demand. Graded Gem Mint 10 singles have broken records, with Carlton Fisk’s ’89 issue hitting $4300 and Tom Glavine achieving $6200. The set is a virtual who’s who of icons spanning eras and remains highly collectible today.
When examining 1989 Fleer prices, it’s important to assess grade, centering, and demand for specific athletes. Rookies like Griffey and Thomas will probably retain the most appreciating value long term. Stars in their prime like Bonds, Ripken, and Nolan Ryan hold steady value in the many hundreds. All-time greats in autograph form experience premium pricing. But a complete, well-kept team or player collection represents one of the most iconic and coveted releases of the past 30+ years. With recognizable rookies, big names, and quality cardboard, 1989 Fleer continues to thrill collectors three decades on.
