The 1989 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the late 1980s. While it does not have any true “superstars” on par with rookie cards of Mickey Mantle or Ken Griffey Jr., there are several cards that can fetch handsome prices for collectors and investors. One of the most notable is the Derek Jeter rookie card. As arguably the greatest shortstop of all time and a longtime Yankee, Jeter’s rookie card from the 1989 Topps set is extremely popular. In mint condition, it can sell for thousands of dollars. With him now being inducted into the Hall of Fame, interest and prices for his rookie are likely to remain strong for years to come.
Another pitcher who had a legendary career andwhose 1989 Topps rookie has held immense value is Greg Maddux. As one of the greatest control artists of all time and a dominant starter for two decades, Maddux rookie is cherished by collectors. High-grade versions can reach five figures. Not far behind is Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie, perhaps the most iconic card of the modern era due to his immense popularity and talent. While not quite as coveted or expensive as early Griffey rookies, his 1989 issue still has value stretching into the thousands for top condition copies. Rounding out the ‘big three’ for this set is Barry Bonds. His rookie comes at a time before the home run records but controversy, making it a significant part of baseball history.
In addition to those headliners, there are several other singles and short prints that bring in substantial returns. For example, the Frank Thomas rookie card has historically commanded over $500 in top condition despite not being quite as heralded as the aforementioned names. The Mark McGwire rookie, from before the home run chase but after a solid debut season, also enters the four-digit range in gem mint. Among short prints, the Andy Benes SP records over $1,000 for its elusiveness. Perhaps surprisingly, cards of pitchers like Orel Hershiser and Dwight Gooden have lost none of their original luster despite ups and downs later in their careers.
Condition, of course, is paramount when evaluating investment potential and price tags for any of these valuable 1989 Topps singles. Even a quarter point downgrade in centering or corners can decimate a card’s worth. For collectors more concerned with admiration of the players than flipping assets, there remain significant cardboard from this set available at reasonable costs across all condition spectra. The nostalgic designs also remain a favorite of the era. Whether chasing Whiffs, Home Runs, or time capsules of baseball’s greats, 1989 Topps ensures there are enduring Targets for enthusiasts of the pastime and paper to pursue.
While it may lack true “10s” other than perhaps Jeter’s rookie, there is depth of valuable content within the 1989 Topps baseball card set. Stars, short prints, and even solid veterans can deliver returns stretching well into five figures for collectors and investors alike depending on exact name and grade. Its classic designs also give the issue staying power for casual fans and historians of the game for generations to come.
