The 1992 Donruss baseball set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of baseball cards. While it did not have quite the high-profile rookies that 1991 featured with Chipper Jones and Jim Thome, the 1992 Donruss set maintained the brand’s standard of quality cardboard and had plenty of big names to attract collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1992 Donruss baseball release.

Barry Bonds (#1) – As one of the greatest players of all-time, any Bonds card from his early Pirates days is highly sought after by collectors. His speed, power, and five MVP awards make him a lock first ballot Hall of Famer. The 1992 Donruss card captures Barry in his prime at age 27, coming off back-to-back 30/30 seasons. In pristine conditioned, this gem has sold for over $1000.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#18) – “The Kid” was already a two-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glover by 1992 at just 22 years old. His sweet swing and effortless fielding skills made him a fan favorite. This Donruss issue shows Griffey’s signature smile and showcases why he would go on to have such an illustrious career. High-grade copies have traded hands for $500-600.

Roberto Alomar (#32) – Alomar was coming off his first All-Star and Gold Glove season with the Blue Jays in 1991 when this card was produced. His smooth defensive skills, high batting average and baserunning ability made him a dynamic player. While not his most valuable as a rookie, Alomar RC’s from 1988 Fleer or Topps are substantially pricier, making this an affordable way to add an all-time great to a collection.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#38) – By 1992, Ripken had solidified himself as not just the best shortstop in baseball, but one of the elite players in the game. This was the year he broke Lou Gehrig’s record for consecutive games played, cementing his “Iron Man” legacy. Any card showing Ripken in an Orioles uniform from his playing days holds value. Seen in a PSA 10 Gem Mint, it has brought $450.

Frank Thomas (#48) – During his inaugural season of 1991, “The Big Hurt” finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting and third in MVP voting, announcing his arrival as a superstar. This Sophomore Donruss displays Thomas chiseled frame in mid-swing as he evolved into arguably the best right-handed power hitter of the 1990s. In pristine condition, it can reach $300-400.

Greg Maddux (#67) – By 1992, Maddux had already finished second in Cy Young voting twice in his young career with the Cubs. His pinpoint control and ability to manipulate the strike zone made him a wizard on the mound. This issue portrays “Mad Dog” in his prime years before winning 4-straight Cy Youngs from 1992-1995 split between Chicago and Atlanta. A PSA 10 is valued at $500+.

Tom Glavine (#73) – The lefty ace had emerged as the Braves’ staff leader by his second full season in 1991 when this card was released. Glavine’s deadly changeup and twoseam fastball kept batters off balance for over two decades. He remains one of only six pitchers in history with over 300 career wins. Any mint condition Glavine from his Braves/Mets peak holds value in the $200-300 range.

Kevin Mitchell (#100) – As a power-hitting outfielder and third baseman, “Mitch” was a versatile threat in the Giants lineup. He took the NL by storm in 1990 winning MVP honors with 47 HR and 125 RBI. This issue portrays Mitchell readying his mighty hack during his all-star caliber years that defined his career. A skilled cardboard in mint condition fetches $80-100.

Roberto Clemente (#133) – One of the all-time great five-tool talents and humanitarian players, no baseball card collection is complete without a Clemente. Struck down far too early at age 38 in a plane crash, this posthumous Donruss honors “The Great One” and his illustrious playing career spent entirely with the Pirates. Higher grade versions can sell in the $150-$200 range.

Nolan Ryan (#148) – By 1992, “The Ryan Express” was already a legend having struck out over 4000 batters. This card captures the flair and fury of his windup during his later Texas Rangers days. At age 45, he was still overpowering hitters and on his way to a record 7 no-hitters. Any mint Ryan from his playing days is an automatic bookmark in any collection worth $75-150.

Dennis Eckersley (#159) – “Eck” bridged the gap between starter and closer better than anyone, winning both a Cy Young and MVP during his career. By 1992, he had emerged as arguably the best reliever in baseball as the Oakland A’s closer, where he would dominate for several years. An excellent condition sample can be acquired for $60-80, making it a solid addition for the price.

Those were some of the biggest names and most valuable cards featured in the 1992 Donruss baseball set, which maintained the brand’s place among the top trading card manufacturers. While it may lack the true rookie card cachet of the 1991 series, there is still amazing breadth of all-time great talent throughout the checklist that should satisfy any collector level or budget. Well-preserved examples of stars like Bonds, Griffey, Maddux, Thomas and others are solid long-term investments.