The 1991 Upper Deck baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the early 1990s. Coming off the massive success of the company’s inaugural 1989 set, Upper Deck looked to build on that momentum and capture lightning in a bottle again with their 1991 offering. They certainly delivered an iconic set that contained some of the most valuable and sought after baseball cards of the decade. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the true gems from the 1991 Upper Deck set.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1) – Widely considered one of if not the most valuable modern baseball card in existence, Griffey’s rookie is the undisputed crown jewel of the 1991 Upper Deck set. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless athleticism made him an instant superstar and fan favorite. Upper Deck perfectly captured the essence of “The Kid” on this iconic rookie card. While PSA 10 examples have sold for over $300,000, even lower graded copies still fetch thousands due to the card’s incredible popularity and significance in the hobby. Griffey’s rookie is the holy grail for any serious baseball card collector.
Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#156) – Like Griffey, Thomas burst onto the scene in 1991 and immediately established himself as one of the game’s most feared power hitters. His rookie card is the second most valuable from the ’91 Upper Deck set. Nicknamed “The Big Hurt”, Thomas perfectly lived up to his intimidating moniker at the plate. This powerful rookie card reflects Thomas’ physical dominance on the field before he went on to have a Hall of Fame career. High grade Thomas rookies still sell for five figures or more in today’s market.
Chipper Jones Rookie Card (#91) – As a switch-hitting third baseman for the Atlanta Braves, Jones went on to have a legendary 19-year career that will surely land him in Cooperstown. But it all started with his promising rookie season in 1991 and the card Upper Deck produced. Jones’ sweet left-handed swing is captured perfectly on this iconic rookie issue. While not in the same stratosphere as Griffey or Thomas, high grade Jones rookies still command thousands due to his elite player status and the card’s significance in documenting the start of a stellar career.
Cal Ripken Jr. (#283) – By 1991, Ripken was already a two-time AL MVP and firmly entrenched as one of baseball’s true iron men. His iconic “Streak” of playing in over 2,000 straight games was well underway. This action shot captures Ripken’s trademark intensity and dedication to his craft. While not a rookie card, Ripken’s iconic ’91 Upper Deck issue remains one of the set’s most popular non-rookie cards due to his status as a true “Iron Man” and Baltimore legend. Even well-centered, lower graded examples still sell for hundreds.
Nolan Ryan (#290) – At age 44 in 1991, Ryan was still overpowering hitters as the all-time strikeout king. This card perfectly captures his legendary fastball and competitive fire that allowed him to pitch into his late 40s. While not his first or only Upper Deck card, Ryan’s ’91 issue remains one of the most sought after from the set. The combination of his historic career accomplishments and the card’s subject matter make it a must-have for any true baseball card collection. Even well-worn copies still trade hands for $100 or more.
Other Notable Cards:
Barry Bonds (#110) – Captures the young 5-tool star before steroid allegations. Still a popular, valuable card.
Roberto Alomar (#165) – Iconic action shot of the smooth-fielding second baseman.
Tom Glavine (#192) – Captures the young Braves ace before winning 300 games.
David Justice (#202) – Powerful Braves outfielder pictured in home run swing.
Greg Maddux (#217) – Shows the crafty righty in windup before 4 Cy Youngs.
Dennis Eckersley (#234) – “Eck” as an Oakland A’s closer before joining Red Sox.
Don Mattingly (#259) – Captures the smooth Yankee slugger in his prime.
Ozzie Smith (#277) – “The Wizard” making an acrobatic play at shortstop.
The 1991 Upper Deck baseball card set is truly a landmark release that documented so many future Hall of Famers and superstars at the earliest stages of their careers. Cards like the Griffey, Thomas, and Jones rookies have become iconic pieces of memorabilia from the 1990s sports card boom. Even 30 years later, this set remains a benchmark for the hobby and examples of its biggest stars continue to attract strong prices from dedicated collectors. The 1991 Upper Deck set is a must-have for any serious baseball card collection.
