1989 Score Baseball Cards Price Guide
The 1989 Score baseball card set was released at the tail end of the junk wax era during a time when the baseball card market was flooded with mass produced cards. While not as valuable as sets from the late 80s and earlier, the 1989 Score cards provide an interesting snapshot of the players and teams from that season. This price guide will provide details on the design of the set and valuations for the most noteworthy rookie cards and star players from over 30 years ago.
Design and Production
The 1989 Score baseball card set contains 792 total cards featuring players, managers, and umpires from both the American and National Leagues. The design featured a vertical photo with the team logo in the upper left corner and player stats listed on the right side. Card stock was thinner than previous years as manufacturers looked to cut costs during the overproduction period. The front of each card had a white border with team colors accenting the photo. On the back, stats were listed in black text on a white background.
While print runs were massive compared to the 1950s-1970s, the 1989 Score set still featured some notable rookie cards that have gained value over time. The sheer number printed of even the most desirable cards means finding high grade versions in mint condition is challenging. Most examples trade in the $1-5 range but the following players have seen their rookie cards appreciate above the rest.
Key Rookie Cards
Greg Maddux (Atlanta Braves) – As a 23 year old rookie, Maddux went 16-6 with a 2.01 ERA helping lead the Braves to the NL West title. His rookie card is one of the most iconic from the late 80s/early 90s. In PSA 10 condition, it can fetch $150-200. Even lower graded copies in EX-MT condition bring $10-20.
Tom Glavine (Atlanta Braves) – Maddux’s teammate and fellow Hall of Famer, Glavine went 14-8 as a rookie. His ’89 Score RC has gained steadily in value, reaching $50-75 in PSA 10 and $5-10 in lower grades.
Randy Johnson (Montreal Expos) – The Big Unit’s imposing 6’10 stature and 100 mph fastball was evident even as a rookie. His RC is highly sought after by Expos and Johnson collectors. PSA 10’s have sold for $100-150 with most others $5-10.
Ken Griffey Jr (Seattle Mariners) – Widely considered the best rookie card of the junk wax era. Even with the massive print run, a PSA 10 Griffey Jr. fetches $500-1000 due to his iconic status. Lower graded versions in the $20-50 range.
Other Notable Stars
While the rookie cards above have gained the most value long term, the ’89 Score set also featured plenty of established stars playing at the height of their careers:
Ozzie Smith (St. Louis Cardinals) – A PSA 10 of the defensive wizard could reach $50-75 given his popularity. Most are $3-10.
Wade Boggs (Boston Red Sox) – The hitting machine’s card has held $5-15 value depending on condition.
Kirby Puckett (Minnesota Twins) – His star was rising, cards reach $10-20 for top grades or team collectors.
Roger Clemens (Boston Red Sox) – The Rocket’s dominant season earns $10-25 for best condition due to his Hall of Fame career.
Jose Canseco (Oakland A’s) – As one of the first true “superstars”, his card has found a $5-15 range.
George Brett (Kansas City Royals) – A PSA 10 of the hitting star could bring $25-50 but most are $3-8.
Set Completion
While individual star cards can be collected or purchased, completing the entire 792 card ’89 Score set presents more of a challenge. In top graded condition it could conceivably reach $1,000-$2,000 due to the rarity of finding so many high quality examples from one set release. Most collectors piece together common players to finish the set for $100-300 depending on condition of copies obtained. The flagship players, managers, and umpires will also carry premiums above common players.
In Summary
While overproduced at the time, the 1989 Score baseball card set still provides a fun look back at that season and a chance to collect iconic rookies like Maddux, Glavine, Johnson, and Griffey Jr. For the dedicated collector, completing the entire set presents a unique challenge. Key star cards from Brett, Puckett, Clemens and others maintain interest as well. Condition is extremely important to realize any significant value discussed in this price guide for the 33 year old junk wax era cards. With patience, a complete ’89 Score set can still be put together affordably for those seeking to commemorate baseball from over three decades ago.
