The 1987 Topps baseball card release is considered one of the most valuable sets from the 1980s. While it may not be quite as iconic or sought after as the iconic 1952 or 1954 Topps sets, the ’87 Topps issue featured several young superstars and Hall of Famers that have grown to become extremely expensive and valuable cards over the past few decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most valuable gems from the 1987 Topps wax packs.
Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1987 set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, Griffey Jr. burst onto the MLB scene in 1987 with remarkable talent and swagger. His rookie card from Topps captures him shining in his Seattle Mariners uniform with one of his signature smiles. In pristine gem mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s rookie currently fetches prices well over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can reach $3,000-5,000. The card remains iconic of 1980s baseball and Griffey’s early dominance.
Another huge star from the late 80s/90s was Chicago White Sox pitcher Jack McDowell. While not quite reaching Griffey levels of fame, McDowell was a dominant starter who won the 1993 Cy Young Award. His rookie card from 1987 Topps is one of the harder cards to find in high grade. An NM-MT copy could sell for $500-1000 while a true gem mint PSA 10 has brought over $2000 at auction. McDowell remains one of the more valuable “non-rookie” cards outside the true stars.
Speaking of true stars, one of the greatest switch-hitters of all-time had his rookie season in 1987 – Bernie Williams. As the longtime Yankee center fielder and 1996 World Series MVP, Williams carved out a Hall of Fame career. His smooth lefty swing and elite bat control made him a fan favorite. Williams’ rookie card has strong demand given his elite talent and status as a full-time Yankee. A PSA 9 could sell for $150-300 while a PSA 10 has reached over $600.
Another lefty slugger who had his breakout 1987 season was Toronto’s George Bell. Bell would win the AL MVP that season while leading the league in home runs and RBI. His powerful swing and flair for the dramatic made him a fan favorite in Canada. Bell’s rising action shot rookie card looks sharp in high grade and has value beyond typical “non-rookie” cards. A PSA 9 has sold for around $100 with a PSA 10 reaching over $250.
Staying in Toronto, pitcher David Wells also had his rookie year in 1987 after being drafted three times without signing. “Boomer” became a workhorse starter and three-time All-Star over his lengthy career. His stocky stature and windup made him memorable. Wells’ rookie card can be acquired for $25-50 in top-notch condition despite his lack of superstardom. Wells collectors add value given his memorable path.
Moving to the National League, slugging first baseman Andres Galarraga cracked onto the scene in 1987 with the Montreal Expos. “The Big Cat” would have several huge seasons with the bat during his 21-year career. Galarraga’s smooth left-handed swing jumps off his rookie card. In pristine condition it can command $75-150 due to his fame and bulk.
Switching coasts, the San Diego Padres had a star of their own emerge in 1987 – Benito Santiago. The young catcher had a seemingly effortless way of blocking pitches and throwing out runners. Santiago won the 1987 Rookie of the Year award and made five All-Star teams. His card looks sharp in Padres navy blue and can bring $50-100 in top grades due to his noteworthy rookie season and all-around play.
There were plenty more noteworthy young players who made their MLB debuts in 1987 scattered among the flagship sets from Topps, Fleer and Donruss. Stars like Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, Kevin Mitchell, and Tom Glavine all had rookie cards created that year in their early uniforms. For collectors, hunting the rookies and stars of 1987 in high quality remains a fun and potentially lucrative hobby. With so many talented ballplayers, there is value to be found across the board from this classic vintage release.
While it may not be the most iconic vintage set, the 1987 Topps baseball card issue saw the arrival of future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Larkin and Bernie Williams. Powerhouse rookie seasons from the likes of Andres Galarraga and Benito Santiago also make their debut cards desirable. With so much young talent on the rise in 1987 across both leagues, it’s no surprise valuable gems remain from the Topps series over 35 years later. Top-graded examples of the stars are prized possessions in collections today.
