Baseball cards were first introduced in the late 1880s as trade cards inserted in packages of tobacco and other products to help advertise those companies. The modern era of baseball cards began in 1933 with the release of the famous Goudey Gum Company set. This 1933 Goudey baseball card set revolutionized the hobby and set the standard for baseball cards going forward. With its colorful images, focus on individual players, and the inclusion of statistics and biographical information, the 1933 Goudey cards marked the transition of baseball cards from mere advertisements to collectible entertainment. They captured the nostalgia of the players and the national pastime of baseball. This set is highly sought after by collectors today and cards from the 1933 Goudey set can fetch high prices depending on the player, condition, and other factors. Here is an in-depth look at pricing guides and values for some of the most desirable cards from the iconic 1933 Goudey baseball card set.
The 1933 Goudey set contains a total of 161 cards that were issued in gum packs from 1933 to 1939. The set featured many of the biggest stars of that era including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Jimmie Foxx among others. The most valuable and desirable cards from this set are the higher numbered cards featuring the biggest name players. Here are some of the estimated prices that key 1933 Goudey cards might sell for today in Near Mint to Mint condition:
Babe Ruth (#153): One of the true holy grails of the hobby, the legendary Bambino’s 1933 Goudey card is iconic. In Near Mint to Mint condition, a Ruth #153 could sell for $150,000 or more. Even well-worn low-grade examples still command five-figure prices.
Lou Gehrig (#139): As one of the game’s original Iron Men, Gehrig’s mystique and stats make his 1933 Goudey card highly coveted. Near Mint to Mint examples could sell for $50,000-$75,000.
Jimmie Foxx (#142): The beastly hitting talents of the “Beast” make his 1933 card a must-have for vintage collections. Near Mint Foxx cards usually sell in the $15,000-$25,000 range.
Lefty Grove (#144): The dominant southpaw ace of his era, Grove’s card remains quite valuable. Near Mint examples typically sell between $8,000-$12,000.
Mickey Cochrane (#140): The Hall of Fame catcher’s card remains quite collectible. Near Mint Cochrane cards sell for $3,000-$5,000.
Chuck Klein (#145): The slugging outfielder’s 1933 card sells for $1,500-$2,500 in Near Mint condition.
Earl Averill (#143): The star Indians outfielder’s card has a Near Mint value of $1,000-$2,000.
Bill Dickey (#141): The Yankees catcher’s smooth swing made him a star and his 1933 card sells for $800-$1,200 Near Mint.
While the superstar cards fetch five and six figures, there is value throughout the entire 1933 Goudey set even for more common players. Here are some estimated prices for cards of solid regulars in Near Mint condition:
Mel Harder (#148): $300-500
Earl Whitehill (#151): $200-300
Sam Leslie (#146): $150-250
Roy Parmelee (#147): $100-200
Ival Goodman (#149): $75-150
Jim Weaver (#150): $50-100
Even the lowest numbered and most common cards can have value. For example, a Near Mint #161 Johnny Frederick would sell for around $25-50 while a #152 Johnny Rigg would go for $10-25. And there are always condition sensitivities to consider as well-worn low-grade examples of even common players can be more affordable collecting options.
The 1933 Goudey baseball card set broke new ground and remains one of the most iconic issues in the hobby. Prices for the biggest stars can reach six figures, but there are collecting opportunities throughout for both common players and star cards in lower grades. The set’s colorful vintage imagery, connection to baseball history, and the players featured make it a prize for any collection. Condition is critical to pricing but the 1933 Goudey cards remain a foundational part of the hobby and its traditions.
