The 1990 Topps baseball card release featured several young stars and Hall of Fame players that have cards from that year that can be quite valuable today, depending on the player, condition of the card, and other factors. Some of the most noteworthy include:
Ken Griffey Jr.: Griffey Jr. was already one of the brightest young stars in baseball in 1990 at just 20 years old with the Seattle Mariners. His rookie cards from 1989 are extremely valuable, but his 1990 Topps cards can still fetch large sums. A mint condition 1990 Griffey Jr. rookie card in a PSA 10 gem grade has sold for over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint cards in PSA 8 or 9 condition can sell for $1,000 or more due to Griffey’s iconic status.
Frank Thomas: “The Big Hurt” was just entering his prime in 1990 with the Chicago White Sox and his cards from this set reflect how he was emerging as a premier power hitter. PSA 10 Thomas rookies have sold for around $4,000-5,000, while PSA 9 copies typically sell in the $500-1000 range. As a still active Hall of Famer, demand remains high for his early career cards.
Rickey Henderson: Arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer ever, Henderson was already a superstar with the Oakland A’s by 1990. High grade Henderson cards from this set can still fetch five-figure sums due to his achievement of breaking Lou Brock’s stolen base record that season. A PSA 9 sold for over $11,000 in 2020. Even well-centered near mint copies sell for $500-1000.
Nolan Ryan: The all-time strikeout king was entering the twilight of his legendary career split between the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros in 1990 at age 43. His cards hold appeal as one of baseball’s true icons. Ryan’s 1990 Topps cards routinely sell for $100-250 even in average condition due to his enduring popularity and record-setting career. High grades can reach $500-1000.
Cal Ripken Jr.: By 1990, “The Iron Man” was well on his way to breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak with the Baltimore Orioles. His 1990 Topps cards are highly sought after. A PSA 10 Ripken sells for around $1,500-2500 depending on the market, with PSA 9 copies reaching $500-1000. Even in average condition, Ripken cards command $50-150.
Griffey, Thomas, Ryan, Ripken, and Henderson are just a few examples of Hall of Famers and stars from the 1990 Topps set whose cards retained long-term value. Other notables include Tony Gwynn, Mark McGwire, Kirby Puckett, Ozzie Smith, and more. Condition is critical, with mint copies of stars commanding thousands. But there are also deals to be had in average condition cards of the game’s all-time greats for $100 or less. For serious collectors, investors, or fans, 1990 Topps has provided a fascinating time capsule of the period alongside opportunities to profit from the baseball memorabilia market.
