The 1991 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and popular issues from the early 90s. The design featured classic red borders and white fronts with player photos. Within the set, there are several cards that collectors consider particularly valuable “key” cards from the release. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most noteworthy 1991 Topps key cards.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (#1) – Widely regarded as one of the premium modern rookie cards, Griffey’s debut Topps issue out of the pack is among the most desired in the set. His rookie season in 1990 put up impressive numbers that showcased his future stardom. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies regularly fetch thousands due to Griffey’s legendary status. Even well-centered lower graded examples still demand premium prices relative to other 1991 rookies.
Chipper Jones Rookie (#94) – As one of the true superstar players of the late 90s/2000s, Chipper Jones’ rookie is a standout from the set. While not quite in the stratosphere of Griffey’s popularity, PSA 10 Jones rookies still sell for mid-four figures. He went on to a Hall of Fame worthy career and 3,000 hit milestone with the Atlanta Braves that makes this an essential 1991 card for team and rookie collectors.
Tom Glavine (#145) – Glavine launched his own Hall of Fame worthy career in 1991 and his Topps rookie card is considered a key piece from this set. The lefty went on to 305 career wins and dominance with the Atlanta Brats. High grades can approach $1,000 due to his elite stature. Even mid-level copies retain strong value for player collectors.
Bobby Bonilla (#163) – A highly coveted star of the late 80s/early 90s, Bonilla’s powerful offensive game made him a fantasy baseball stud. His iconic mustache look on this card adds nostalgic allure. High graded versions often clear $200-300 and mid-tier examples still sell for $50-100 due to nostalgia and supply/demand dynamics.
Dennis Martinez Perfect Game (#272) – Martinez tossed a perfect game for the Montreal Expos on July 28, 1991. His 1991 Topps card is one of the most identifiable pieces from the set because the back notes his historic accomplishment. PSA 10s top $500 given the rarity of finding high grade promo/short prints from the early 90s. Even well-centered mid-grades retain six figure value for the importance.
Wade Boggs (#279) – One of the game’s greatest contact hitters, Boggs’ 1991 issue retains value as a key part of his cardboard collection. He was a mainstay statistically for over a decade. While not quite the star power of Griffey/Jones, mint condition examples still command $150-250 given his elite career production and 3,000 hit milestone.
Mike Mussina (#291) – Though overshadowed by teammate Glavine at times, Mussina enjoyed his own outstanding career that culminated in a Hall of Fame induction. His rookie in 1991 Topps remains an essential card from the set. PSA 10 Gems have sold over $300 given his production and his important role with the Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees organizations.
1991 Topps Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (#1) – Widely regarded as one of the premium modern rookie cards, Griffey’s debut Topps issue out of the pack is among the most desired in the set. His rookie season in 1990 put up impressive numbers that showcased his future stardom. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies regularly fetch thousands due to Griffey’s legendary status. Even well-centered lower graded examples still demand premium prices relative to other 1991 rookies.
Roberto Alomar (#295) – With a career marked by success on both offense and defense, Alomar accomplished a lot as a player in the 1990s. His 1991 card documents his early years before stints with Toronto/Baltimore/Cleveland/New York Mets made him a fixture in the postseason. Higher grades still bring $150-250 despite being overshadowed by other stars’ cards in the set.
Mike Piazza (#360) – As one of the game’s most iconic slugging catchers, Piazza’s debut cardboard from 1991 retains value as an integral piece of his collection. Copies in PSA 10 often surpass $400 given his dominance behind the plate. Even mid-level condition still sells for $50-100 due to his stature.
Mark McGwire (#364) – McGwire launched his own assault on the record books from this point on, making any card of his from the early 90s of significance. His rookie season put him on the map before future accomplishments and the home run chase with Sammy Sosa. High grades still surpass $200 though his reputation has been marred by steroid controversy in hindsight.
Sammy Sosa (#391) – Like McGwire, any card showing Sammy’s beginnings capture interest from collectors seeking his rise. While overshadowed by Griffey as a rookie, strong finishes and later home run heroics with Chicago Cubs have kept Sosa cards like this relevant despite controversies. Well-centered copies remain over $50-100.
Nolan Ryan (#392) – Capturing one of the game’s most iconic pitchers near the end of his career, this card remains a piece of memorabilia from his remarkable playing days. Even in a PSA 8 grade, his cards still approach $75-100 due purely to name recognition as one of the all-time great hurlers.
This covers some of the major highlights and key cards to watch for when collecting the 1991 Topps baseball set. With stars like Griffey, Jones, Glavine, Boggs, Piazza and others, this product created cards that documented the early years of many future Hall of Famers. Strong vintage from Upper Deck also made 1991 an excellent year in the hobby. The cards featured remain popular with collectors today for capturing memorable players and performances.
