The 1989 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of the sport. While not the flashiest or most critically acclaimed set compared to some others from the late 80s, it featured major stars and rookie cards that have become extremely valuable over the decades. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive and desirable cards collectors seek from the ’89 Topps issue.
Undoubtedly the most coveted and expensive card from the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie. Widely considered one of the best player prospects of all time, Griffey lived up to the enormous hype with a legendary career. His rookie card from the ’89 Topps set has ascended to become arguably the most valuable baseball card in existence, with ultra-high grade specimens routinely fetching six figure prices or more at auction. What makes Griffey’s rookie so drastically more valuable than others is his clean-cut image, stunning baseball ability right away as a teenager, and the huge popularity he achieved so quickly in the game.
Another extremely sought after card is the Bo Jackson rookie. As perhaps the greatest “what if” in pro sports history, Jackson’s brevity in MLB only adds mystique and rarity to his rookie baseball offering. Although he didn’t play much in the majors due to his focus on the NFL as well, Jackson was a true phenom athlete and his card prices reflect that legendary status. High grade ’89 Topps Bo Jackson rookies can sell for $30,000 or more. Beyond the Griffey and Jackson, there are several other key stars and rookies that make the ’89 set highly collectible.
The Barry Bonds rookie is one of the cleanest and most centered versions of his first Bowman card. While Bonds went on to set home run records that were later tainted by steroid revelations, as a young rookie his sky-high potential was obvious. High grade Bonds rookies regularly sell for $5,000+, a very good price for a card produced over 30 years ago. Another star rookie is that of Greg Maddux. Widely considered one of the best pitchers ever despite lacking power stuff, Maddux’s pinpoint control and winning ability made him a fan favorite. His terrific career only adds to the value of his ’89 Topps rookie, with gems exceeding $3,000.
Two other future Hall of Fame players had valuable rookies in this set as well. The Tom Glavine rookie has sharply risen in demand and price in recent vintage runs. As one of the elite hurlers of the 90s for the Atlanta Braves dynasty, high grade Glavine rookies can now achieve $2,000. Another is the Cal Ripken Jr. rookie. While not his true first card since he had minor league issues prior, Ripken’s iconic status as “The Iron Man” of baseball and his clean ’89 Topps issue makes it a must-have for Orioles fans and Ripken collectors. Near-mint to mint condition specimens trade hands for $1,500+ ordinarily.
In addition to the star rookies, there were also classic cards of established legends featured in the ’89 Topps set that hold immense nostalgia and collector demand. The Nolan Ryan card, showing him pitching for the Texas Rangers, is a standout as one of the greatest performers in baseball history. Graded Gem Mint 10 copies can earn well over $1,000 due to Ryan’s incredible career statistics and longevity. A personal favorite of many ’80s kids is the Wade Boggs card where he is batting left-handed. Highly centered with his backwards stance, pristine versions appeal to hardcore Red Sox followers for $800-1,000 range.
Two Hall of Fame sluggers also had iconic ’89 Topps cards. The always recognizable Mickey Mantle Yankees card is amongst the most aesthetically pleasing in the set. Graded NM-MT 7s trade for around $500-700 still today. Other notably valuable cards include the Don Mattingly card where he is fielding at first base for the Yankees. Graded copies in the 8-9 range can garner $300-500 due to Mattingly’s fantastic playing career cut short by injury and his status as a fan favorite “American Boy.”
While production numbers were enormous for the 1989 Topps baseball card set compared to modern issues, the stars, rookies, and memorable photography featured have made it stand the test of time. Anchored by the record-setting prices achieved for gem mint Griffey and Jackson rookie cards, this vintage set remains a benchmark for collectors. Besides the star rookie cards highlighted, steady demand also exists for the legendary players showcased in their prime like Ryan, Boggs, Mantle, and others. Three decades after its release, the ’89 Topps set remains a cornerstone of the modern collecting era.
