The 1986 Topps Baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets in the entire baseball card collecting hobby. With 700 total cards issued in series ranging from the base set (#1-710) to special World Series subsets and insert cards, the 1986 Topps set showcased some true superstar players and rookie cards that have stood the test of time. Now over 35 years old, many of the key cards from the 1986 Topps set command big money from serious collectors and investors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highest value and most desirable 1986 Topps cards today.
The true gem of the entire 1986 Topps set is without question the unmatched rookie card of Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr.(#90). Widely considered one of if not the most iconic rookie card in the hobby, Griffey’s 1986 Topps RC is arguably the single most valuable non-sports card item ever produced. In pristine near-mint to mint condition, Griffey’s rookie now routinely fetches well over $10,000 and has topped $20,000 and even $30,000 at auction for top-graded specimens. Even well-centered, but lower graded copies still bring $5,000+. No other modern baseball card holds its value better or is more revered than “The Kid’s” first Topps issue.
Another all-time great who debuted in 1986 was future 500 home run club member Frank Thomas (#205). Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt’s” rookie card has stood the test of time and remains highly sought after by collectors. A PSA 10 gem mint Thomas rookie has sold for over $6,000, with lower graded copies still worth $1,500+ in strong condition. Thomas would go on to have one of the most dominant careers for a right-handed batter and cemented his legendary status, keeping interest in his rookie card white hot decades later.
Two other 1986 Topps rookies that hold significant long term value are Yankees pitching ace David Cone (#629) and Braves legend Tom Glavine (#458). Cone, sporting his curly locks and high leg kick on the mound, debuted with the Royals in 1986 before being flipped to New York, where he would win 194 games over 17 seasons. High grade Cone rookies now sell for $800-1,200. Glavine meanwhile had one of the longest and most successful left-handed pitcher careers ever, winning 305 games and claiming two Cy Young awards. Though not as iconic a card as Griffey or Thomas, Glavine’s well-centered rookie still fetches $500-800.
While rookie cards are always highly sought, the 1986 Topps set also featured several exciting veterans and true superstars entering their primes. One of the biggest movers and shakers was Chicago Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg (#220). Arguably the best all-around second basemen of the 1980s, Sandberg was in the early stages of what would become a Hall of Fame career. His iconic curly haired rookie brings $300-500 graded, with a true gem specimen recently selling for over $1,000. Another 80s icon, Philadelphia Phillies star Mike Schmidt (#7), routinely sells for over $200 even in lower grades, thanks to “The Schmitter’s” status as arguably the greatest third basemen ever. His elegant swing and prolific home run totals keep interest in his 1986 issue strong.
One position player rookie card that has been steadily gaining steam in price is that of California Angels superstar Wally Joyner (#388). Joyner emerged as a premier slugging first baseman in the late 80s and early 90s, making multiple All-Star appearances. Only 31 years old when the card was issued, Joyner’s rookie was under the radar for decades but now sees prices reach $150-$250 for strong examples after years of appreciation. Ditto for New York Mets starter Ron Darling (#431), who broke in with 8 wins in 1986 before becoming a key member of the 90s World Series champion squads. Darling’s quirky smile and delivery make his rookie a fun PC card now worth $125+.
The 1986 Topps set also included valuable subsets highlighting that year’s All-Star players and postseason heroes. The most iconic of these is the “Gwynn and Sandberg” All-Star duo card (#AS1), which features a young Tony Gwynn getting the back of his elite hitting skills captured alongside the aforementioned Ryne Sandberg. This coveted “duo” style All-Star issue has reached over $250 for pristine specimens, cashing in on two enduring stars at the height of their popularity. Another must-have for 1986 collectors are the multi-player World Series cards, with subsets for both the 1986 champion New York Mets and Boston Red Sox. Individually, these colorful retro postseason highlights can each command $50-75 for key members like Darryl Strawberry or Roger Clemens.
The 1986 Topps baseball card set remains a tried and true long term investment for savvy collectors. Headlined by true superstar rookie cards of Griffey, Frank Thomas, and others, there are several dozen individual 1986 Topps cards that have appreciably held or increased value over decades. Even today, simple well-centered base cards of veterans like Mike Schmidt or Jesse Barfield can be acquired for under $20. For those who recognize the historic and artistic significance of cards issued during the height of the 1987 players’ strike and Topps’ dominance, the 1986 set endures as a touchstone of 1980’s culture and the hobby’s classic era. With interest always high, 1986 Topps is assured longevity as a collectible chasing the nostalgia of summertime baseball from 35 years ago.
