The 1990 Topps baseball card set was unique in that it included some of the most valuable rookie cards and iconic players from that era. While not the most famous set overall, it contained several highly sought after cards that still excite collectors today. Here’s a deeper look at some of the most notable cards from the 792 card 1990 Topps issue.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#1)

Undoubtedly the crown jewel of the set is the Frank Thomas rookie card. Often referred to as the “Big Hurt,” Thomas would go on to have one of the most prolific and consistent careers of any player in the 1990s and 2000s. His rookie is one of the most valuable from the entire junk wax era. In pristine gem mint condition, examples have sold for over $10,000. What makes his rookie so desirable is that Thomas was incredibly dominant right out of the gate, winning the American League MVP and Rookie of the Year awards in 1990. This helped buzz and demand for his rookie card take off immediately. Even in well-loved condition today, most Thomas rookies will fetch $100-200.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#91)

While not quite as valuable as the Thomas rookie today, “Junior’s” is still universally recognized as one of the best and most iconic from the junk wax period. Griffey was already hugely popular in 1990 due to his graceful style of play and was poised for superstardom. The cards were mass produced, but high grade versions still sell for $250-500 depending on condition. Like Thomas, Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career at the center of MLB popularity in the 1990s. His rookie remains sought after for showcase collections because of Griffey’s amazing talent and on-field flair.

Nolan Ryan (#320)

By 1990, Ryan was already a living legend having reached many pitching milestones. But his Topps card that year remains highly symbolic of his greatness and regarded as one of the best baseball photos ever used on a trading card. With his windup captured perfectly, the closeup image exemplified Ryan’s energy and fiery competitiveness on the mound. High grade copies in mint condition trade hands for $100-200 quite regularly. While not a rookie, Ryan’s iconic status and this incredible action shot make his 1990 card a mandatory inclusion in collections focusing on the players and photography of the era.

Barry Bonds (#442)

While controversy would later plague Bonds, in 1990 he was simply one of the game’s brightest young stars. As his career took off, so too did interest in his rookie and early career cards. The 1990 issue remains the most easily obtainable of Bonds’ early cards outside of his rookie. Excellent condition copies still sell for $40-75 and represent a cost-effective addition for collectors seeking pieces from Bonds’ dominant prime years. With his signature bald head and fierce on-deck stance captured on the front, this iconic card defined the rising superstar that Bonds was becoming.

Wally Joyner Autograph (#762)

While not exactly a huge name outside of Angels fans, Joyner’s autograph card stands out as one of the set’s true gems. Unlike modern releases with autograph checklists, very few 1990 Topps cards featured autographed versions inserted randomly. Joyner’s autograph makes it an extremely rare and coveted find. Even in average condition, most sell in the $300-500 range. In pristine mint condition, unanswered bids have exceeded $1,000 before. Its scarcity and the appeal of an autograph from the set contribute to Joyner’s card significantly outpacing his fame as a player in collector value.

Other Notable Cards

Ozzie Smith (#56): Perhaps no player better exemplified flashy defense and the “Wizard” persona than Smith.

Randy Johnson (#119): One of the few cards showing “The Big Unit’s” overpowering delivery from when he was still finding his way.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#123): Always a fan favorite, this captures Ripken early in his epic consecutive games streak.

Darryl Strawberry (#200): Still near the height of his stardom in 1990 before injuries hampered his career.

Kirby Puckett (#246): Perennial All-Star who helped make Minnesota a contender in the late 80s/early 90s.

Don Mattingly (#257): The smooth swinging “Donnie Baseball” was coming off an eventful 1989 season.

Roger Clemens (#364): Already one of the most dominant hurlers of the decade at this point.

Wade Boggs (#392): Mr. .300 with another batting title already under his belt in 1989.

Roberto Alomar (#431): One of the game’s best all-around talents starting to emerge for Baltimore.

Rickey Henderson (#483): The game’s premier leadoff man and base stealer in the late 80s.

While produced during the height of the junk wax era, the 1990 Topps set remains iconic for rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr., and Barry Bonds. Legendary players like Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith also had defining cards that year. Overall player selection was excellent and the mixture of stars, prospects, and rare inserts like autographs give the issue lasting appeal and investment potential for dedicated collectors today.