When it comes to investing in unopened baseball cards, there are a few key sets and individual cards that have proven to hold their value and increase substantially over time. For collectors and investors looking to put money into wax boxes, factory sealed packs, or individual cards still in their original packaging, focusing on the following options tends to be a relatively safe bet.

1952 Topps – Without question, the holy grail of unopened baseball cards is the 1952 Topps set. These are the very first modern cardboard collectibles produced by Topps and they feature iconic players like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Ted Williams. Only about 50 complete unopened wax boxes are believed to still exist today, making them incredibly rare. In pristine condition, a 1952 Topps wax box in the original shrink wrap could fetch well over $1 million at auction. Even individual factory sealed packs from this set sell for five figures. The design aesthetic and player selection make these truly historic and desirable among collectors.

1957 Topps – The 1957 Topps set marked Topps’ transition to the modern size and design that would be their standard for decades. Rated a 9.5 out of 10 in terms of overall condition, a full unopened wax box recently sold at auction for over $480,000. Like the ’52s, the extreme rarity of sealed ’57 product drives the price up tremendously. Even loose packs still in the original wrapper can sell for thousands of dollars depending on the included players and condition. This set remains one of the most coveted and valuable unopened options for investors.

1969 Topps – As one of the most iconic designs in the history of the hobby, the 1969 Topps set is hugely popular whether sealed or opened. What makes unopened ’69s a great buy is the abundance of supply still available compared to the ultra-rare pre-1960s sets. A full wax box in gem mint condition recently sold for over $36,000. Loose factory sealed packs can often be acquired for $300-500 depending on included players. With ample room for future appreciation given the design’s enduring popularity, the 1969s provide an accessible vintage investment option.

1986 Fleer – The debut of Michael Jordan’s rookie card in the 1986 Fleer set forever changed the collectibles marketplace. While “coke bottles” containing Jordan’s iconic #57 have sold for millions, there is still value in complete unopened wax boxes of this revolutionary release. Containing other stars like Larry Bird and Charles Barkley too, a ’86 Fleer box in top condition can sell for $15,000-$20,000 depending on the market. Individual sealed packs also command $100-200 each based on included players. This set’s importance to basketball card history makes it a blue chip holding.

1988 Score – Often overlooked compared to the flagship ’88 Donruss and Topps sets, unopened 1988 Score product has proven to be a stealthy investment gem. Loaded with star rookies like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Mark McGwire, a complete wax box in pristine condition recently sold at auction for over $12,000. Sealed factory sets and individual packs can regularly be acquired for a few hundred dollars or less. With the popularity of late 80s/early 90s players rising, the ’88 Score set looks poised for further gains.

1989 Bowman – As the set that introduced rookie cards for Griffey Jr. and Thomas, 1989 Bowman holds a special place in the hobby. Unopened wax boxes have sold for over $10,000 when graded mint or near-mint. Sealed factory sets also command $1,000-2,000 depending on included rookie talent. With ’89 being the start of the Bowman brand’s longevity, these cards from the brand’s inaugural year carry significant nostalgia and collector demand.

1990 Score – Loaded with stars and featuring the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Griffey Jr. and Piazza, the 1990 Score set has proven to be a blue chip holding. In pristine condition, a full unopened wax box recently sold at auction for over $9,000. Sealed factory sets and individual packs can often be found for a few hundred dollars or less. With the 1990 Upper Deck set being the most expensive modern release, Score provides accessible ’90s exposure at a reasonable cost.

1993 SP – The 1993 Sportflix set is one of the most visually striking designs ever produced. Featuring incredible photo variations, the set is a true work of art. With stars like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas, unopened ’93 SP wax boxes have sold for over $7,000 when graded gem mint. Sealed factory sets and packs typically sell for a few hundred dollars. For collectors seeking a unique and aesthetically pleasing vintage investment, the 1993 SP set is a top choice.

1995 Pinnacle – Loaded with stars and sporting innovative hologram technology on the cards, 1995 Pinnacle was a true ’90s standout release. Complete unopened wax boxes have sold for over $5,000 in top condition. Sealed factory sets and individual packs can often be acquired for $100-200. With the ’95s being accessible yet holding iconic ’90s appeal, they represent a smart long term holding.

When choosing the best unopened baseball cards to buy as investments, focusing on the ultra-rare pre-1960s classics, iconic flagship sets from the 1960s-1980s, and sought-after modern releases tends to be a strategy that stands the test of time. Prioritizing condition and completeness will be paramount to maximizing returns down the road. With patience and by selecting from the options above, collectors can feel confident building a sealed card portfolio poised for long term appreciation.