The 1990s were a transformative time for baseball cards. While the industry had slowed down from its peak in the late 1980s, the 1990s saw the rise of some major star players who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Their rookie cards from this decade have grown substantially in value in the decades since. For collectors looking to potentially cash in, here are some of the most valuable baseball cards from the 1990s worth keeping an eye out for.

Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck RC (1989) – Widely considered one of if not the most iconic rookie card of all time, Griffey’s Upper Deck rookie is the undisputed crown jewel of 1990s baseball cards. Even in low grade, examples can fetch thousands. High-end PSA 10 examples have sold for over $100,000, making this arguably the most valuable modern baseball card. Griffey was the complete package – young, talented, popular. His rookie captured lightning in a bottle.

Chipper Jones Fleer Ultra RC (1993) – As one of the greatest third basemen ever, Jones put together a Hall of Fame career with the Braves. His rookie card value has risen considerably in recent years. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $10,000, with most graded copies in the $1,000-3,000 range even in lower grades. Jones was a can’t-miss prospect who lived up to the hype.

Derek Jeter SP Authentic RC (1992) – As arguably the greatest Yankee of all time and a surefire Hall of Famer, Jeter’s rookie card is a staple in any collection. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $20,000. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8 or 9 can fetch $1,000-3,000. Jeter’s popularity and on-field success have made this a perennial blue-chip card.

Pujols Bowman Chrome RC (2001) – While a 2000s card, Pujols’ rookie was included in 2001 Bowman Chrome and remains one of the most coveted modern rookies. PSA 10s have sold for over $25,000. Even in PSA 9, examples can go for $5,000-10,000. Pujols was a can’t-miss prospect who lived up to it and more to become a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

Pedro Martinez Fleer Update RC (1992) – One of the most dominant pitchers ever, Martinez’s rookie remains a key card from the 1990s. PSA 10s have sold for over $10,000, with most graded copies in the $1,000-3,000 range depending on condition. Martinez was must-see TV in his prime and cemented his Hall of Fame status.

Nomar Garciaparra Bowman’s Best RC (1996) – Garciaparra burst onto the scene as a rookie sensation for the Red Sox. While injuries cut his career short, his rookie remains a valuable piece from the decade. PSA 10s have reached $5,000, with most graded copies between $500-1,500 depending on condition. He was a young star at a premier position.

Larry Walker Bowman’s Best RC (1991) – A late-blooming star, Walker put up Hall of Fame numbers but remains overlooked. His rookie card value has risen in recent years. PSA 10s have reached $2,500, with most graded copies in the $300-800 range depending on condition. As Walker gains more Hall of Fame support, his rookie card should continue rising.

Andruw Jones Bowman Chrome RC (1996) – One of the greatest defensive center fielders ever, Jones’ rookie remains a key 1990s card. PSA 10s have reached $2,000, with most graded copies between $300-800 depending on condition. He was a can’t-miss prospect who became a perennial All-Star.

Randy Johnson Bowman Chrome RC (1990) – As perhaps the most dominant pitcher of the 1990s-2000s, “The Big Unit’s” rookie card value has grown steadily. PSA 10s have reached $2,000, with most graded copies between $200-500 depending on condition. His intimidating presence and statistical dominance make this a blue-chip card.

Mike Piazza Pinnacle RC (1991) – As perhaps the greatest hitting catcher ever, Piazza’s rookie card is a staple for collectors. PSA 10s have reached $2,000, with most graded copies between $200-500 depending on condition. His prodigious power redefined the position.

While star rookies and Hall of Famers dominate, there are also valuable cards featuring 1990s stars like Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, Barry Bonds, Ken Caminiti, and others. Top prospects who never panned out like Brien Taylor also hold nostalgic value. For savvy collectors, the 1990s remain a gold mine of baseball cards that can gain value with the passage of time as the stars of that era enter the Hall of Fame. Condition is critical, so higher grades will always command the best prices. With patience and research, the 1990s provide opportunities to potentially profit from investments in the cardboard stars of yesteryear.