The 1989 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the landmark issues from the late 1980s era. While not the flashiest or most coveted set from that decade, the ’89 Topps cards provide a interesting snapshot of the game at that time and feature many stars who were entering their prime or just breaking out. As with any vintage card collection, certain factors influence the value of the individual ’89 Topps cards in the secondary market. This article will examine some of the standout rookies and veterans from that set and analyze what collectors should expect to pay for graded examples in various conditions today, over 30 years after the original release.
One of the top rookie cards in the 1989 set is Ken Griffey Jr. After making his major league debut toward the end of the previous season, Griffey was on the cusp of superstardom. His sweet left-handed swing and athletic defensive abilities projected him to be a perennial All-Star. In the years since, Griffey lived up to the hype and then some, cementing his status as one of the greats of the game. Not surprisingly, his rookie card has held immense popularity. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, the Griffey Jr. RC has sold for over $10,000. In PSA 9 Near Mint, prices have exceeded $3,000. Even in raw, ungraded form the Griffey rookie remains highly sought after.
Staying in Seattle, another star on the rise featured prominently in the ’89 set was Eastern Washington product Edgar Martinez. While mainly known at that point for his big bat, Edgar was about to put together a Hall of Fame worthy career almost entirely as the Mariners’ designated hitter. His rookie card doesn’t carry the same cache as Griffey but remains a key part of any vintage Seattle PC. PSA 10 Edgar Martinez rookies have sold for $800-1200. In less than mint condition, even raw copies can still fetch $50-100 based on demand from Mariners collectors.
Shifting to the American League East, the 1989 Topps issue highlighted two future Hall of Famers just breaking in. Known for his prodigious power and Caribbean flair, Frank Thomas exploded onto the scene in Chicago to stay. “The Big Hurt” would go on to dominate the league for over a decade and a half. Graded PSA 10 copies of his revered rookie card can bring $1,500-2,000. Slightly played PSA 8 versions are around $400-600 range. Staying in the AL East, the Tigers saw shortstop Alan Trammell come into his own in the late 1980s. While not flashy stats-wise, “Tram” was a steady, consistent leader and winner for Detroit. High-grade Trammell rookies in PSA 9-10 condition are $200-300 due to his reputation and champion pedigree.
Moving to the National League, the rise of “Nails” was evident from the 1989 cards. At just 19 years old, Barry Larkin was already controlling the shortstop position for Cincy and showing why he’d eventually be voted to the Hall in 2012. Larkin rookie PSA 10s have eclipsed $1,000. In PSA 9 condition expect to pay $400-600. Another future first-ballot inductee breaking out was Tim Raines of the Expos. Already a dynamic top-of-the-order threat, “Rock” was primed to put up gaudy stolen base totals for years to come. While not as popular as some, Raines rookies in PSA 8-9 grade can still demand $150-250 given his elite career resume.
Staying in the NL, two superstar hurlers were prominently featured after coming off all-time great 1988 campaigns. Known for his blazing heater and nastiness on the mound, Orel Hershiser took the Dodgers wire-to-wire on his way to a record 59 consecutive scoreless innings and a World Series MVP. “Bulldog” Hershiser was entering his prime years. PSA 10 versions of his ’89 Topps card have sold for well over $1,000. Greg Maddux meanwhile was low-key becoming the most consistent and effective starter in baseball during his early Cubs tenure. Highly-graded “Mad Dog” Maddux from the ’89 Topps set in PSA 9-10 condition command $400-600.
While not the most valuable vintage card release, the 1989 Topps baseball issue remains hugely popular with collectors due its mixture of future Hall of Famers, budding stars, and memorable career seasons featured. Key rookie cards like Griffey, Martinez, Thomas, and Larkin maintain strong steady values. Veterans Hershiser, Maddux, and Raines also hold slots in PC’s of their respective franchise faithfuls. For the combination of historic players and moments captured, plus affordable price points compared to higher end 1950s/1960s issues, the ’89 Topps set represents a great entry point or supplemental addition to a vintage baseball collection three decades later.
