The 1988 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable vintage sets from the late 1980s. While it didn’t feature the flashy designs and photography of Topps cards from that era, the 1988 Donruss set contained several rookie cards and short printed cards that have increased tremendously in value over the past 30+ years. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key 1988 Donruss cards that are worth money for collectors today.
Perhaps the most well-known and valuable card from the 1988 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was already showing signs of superstardom as a 19-year old rookie with the Seattle Mariners in 1988. His iconic swinging pose and bright smile made his rookie card extremely popular. In top graded gem mint condition, Griffey’s 1988 Donruss rookie has sold for over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range can fetch $1,000-$3,000. The Griffey rookie is arguably the most iconic and desirable card from the entire 1980s decade.
Another hugely valuable rookie card from 1988 Donruss is San Diego Padres shortstop Garry Templeton. Templeton had already played several seasons in the majors prior to 1988 but 1988 Donruss marked his first card in a Padres uniform after being traded from the St. Louis Cardinals. For whatever reason, the Templeton rookie was drastically underprinted compared to the rest of the set. In high grades it can rival or surpass the Griffey rookie in value, with PSA 10 examples selling for upwards of $15,000. Even lower graded copies still command $500+ due to the card’s sharp looks and storied short print status.
In addition to rookie phenoms, 1988 Donruss featured the last cardboard representations of several all-time great players who were entering the twilight of their careers. Perhaps none are more sought after than the Rickey Henderson card, featuring the base-stealing sensation in his first season with the New York Yankees after being traded from the Oakland A’s. As one of the most prolific thieves in baseball history, Henderson’s explosive playing style translated perfectly to his 1988 Donruss card. High grade T206-sized copies can reach $1,000+ for serious Rickey collectors.
Another highly valuable veteran card is that of Oakland A’s ace and future Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley. 1988 was the season Eckersley transformed from failed starter into the most dominant closer in baseball history. His iconic mustached glare and delivery motion were perfectly captured on his 1988 Donruss card. In pristine mint condition it can rival or top the $1,000 price point. Eckersley’s dominant season and eventual changing of the closer role make his 1988 Donruss one of the most historically significant cards from the entire set.
Two other star veterans with valuable 1988 Donruss cards include Atlanta Braves slugger Dale Murphy and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Tony Perez. Murphy, a former NL MVP, had cards that were drastically underprinted in the late 80s Donruss sets. His ’88 remains a popular and pricey short print. Meanwhile, Perez was in his final MLB season in 1988 after a Hall of Fame career. Both their 1988 Donruss cards can fetch $300-$500 each in top grades due to their on-field accomplishments and closing-chapter status with Donruss.
In addition to future Hall of Famers and rookie phenoms, 1988 Donruss featured several short printed cards of impact players that have increased steadily in value. San Diego Padres outfielder Tony Gwynn, Chicago Cubs first baseman Mark Grace, and Baltimore Orioles pitcher Mike Boddicker all had cards with print runs far lower than the rest of the set. As a result, their 1988 Donruss cards in pristine condition have sold in recent years for $400-$700 depending on the player and exact grade.
While it didn’t have the flashy design of other late 80s sets, the 1988 Donruss baseball card release was loaded with stars, both established and emerging. From rookie legends like Griffey and Templeton to all-time great closer Eckersley to scarce short prints of talent like Gwynn and Grace, there are plenty of reasons why savvy collectors are willing to spend top dollar on the vintage cardboard over 30 years later. For those looking to invest, the 1988 Donruss set remains a gold mine of affordable vintage gems still waiting to be unearthed.
