The 1991 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular releases of the early 1990s. While it didn’t feature any true rookie cards of future superstars, it did include cards of several top players who were already established names. As with any vintage card set, certain rare and desirable 1991 Donruss cards have increased dramatically in value over the past 30 years. Here are some of the most valuable 1991 Donruss baseball cards collectors seek today:

Ken Griffey Jr. (#110) – Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Ken Griffey Jr. was already one of baseball’s brightest young stars by 1991. The star outfielder of the Seattle Mariners, Griffey’s card from the 1991 Donruss set ranks among the most coveted. In top graded gem mint condition of PSA 10, Griffey’s ’91 Donruss has sold for over $2,000. Even in lower near-mint grades of PSA 8 or 9, examples can sell for $300-500 due to Griffey’s Hall of Fame caliber career and status as a fan favorite player.

Barry Bonds (#77) – Perhaps the greatest all-around pure hitter in baseball history, Barry Bonds was well on his way to a likely Hall of Fame career by 1991 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His prodigious power and patience at the plate made him a dangerous slugger from an early age. Bonds’ 1991 Donruss card has also held great value, with PSA 10 gems selling for north of $1,000. More average near-mint copies still trade for $150-250 based on Bonds’ historic legacy.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#96) – The epitome of Iron Man durability and consistency, Cal Ripken Jr. had already played in over 1,000 straight games for the Baltimore Orioles heading into the 1991 season. As a hometown hero and perennial All-Star, Ripken’s ’91 Donruss card has remained popular. High-grade PSA 10 copies have reached over $800 at auction given Ripken’s fan-favorite status and recent Hall of Fame induction. PSA 8 or 9 versions still sell for $150-300.

Roberto Alomar (#153) – A speedy and versatile second baseman, Roberto Alomar was already a two-time All-Star and Gold Glover by 1991 with the San Diego Padres at just 23 years old. He would go on to have a likely Hall of Fame career primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays. Alomar’s 1991 Donruss rookie card has held value, with gem mint PSA 10s selling for $400-600 range depending on market conditions. High graded PSA 9s can still fetch $100-250.

Kirby Puckett (#221) – One of the most popular Twins of all-time, Kirby Puckett was already a two-time All-Star and batting champion by 1991 while leading the Minnesota attack. Always smiling and full of energy on the field, Puckett connected strongly with Twin Cities fans. His 1991 Donruss card has performed very well, with PSA 10 specimens selling between $300-500. Even PSA 9 copies in great condition can trade hands for $75-150 given Puckett’s status with the franchise.

Dennis Eckersley (#259) – As one of baseball’s premier closers throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Dennis Eckersley dazzled coming out of the bullpen for Oakland. The Hall of Famer was atop his game in 1991 as he won the American League Cy Young and MVP awards. Due to his eye-popping stats and dominance on the mound that year, Eckersley’s ’91 Donruss now ranks among the set’s key short prints. PSA 10s have reached upwards of $300-500.

John Smoltz (#399) – While not quite a household name yet, the 1991 Donruss set featured John Smoltz’s rookie card during his early years as a starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves. Smoltz would go on to develop into an ace starter and Hall of Fame closer, winning a Cy Young along the way. His rookie card from the popular 1991 Donruss set is highly sought after today, with PSA 10 gems bringing in $200-300 range at auction.

Other valuable 1991 Donruss cards include Kirby Puckett’s error short print SP (#221e) in gem condition, PSA 10 Roberto Alomar rookie SP (#153SP), PSA 10 Nolan Ryan (#329), PSA 10 Cecil Fielder (#357), PSA 10 Craig Biggio rookie (#416), and high graded examples of superstars like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, Ozzie Smith and more. While not deemed true “key” rookie cards, the 1991 Donruss set showcased many future Hall of Famers and remain highly collectible today for vintage card enthusiasts. With its attractive design featuring action photos on a textured grey stock, 1991 Donruss endures as one of the most iconic ‘90s releases.