The 1970s introduced some of the most iconic baseball card designs and rookie cards in the history of the hobby. While the golden age of baseball cards had passed, there were still plenty of valuable gems produced during this decade that have retained or increased in value over the years. Identifying 1970s cards worth hanging onto and potentially selling can unlock hidden profits for collectors.
One of the most famous and valuable rookie cards from the 1970s is the 1975 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey arrived on the scene as a favorite to become the next superstar and did not disappoint fans. Despite struggles with injuries that may have prevented him reaching his full potential, Griffey was one of the best pure hitters of his generation and is considered one of the all-time great center fielders. His rookie card has appeared in the highest grades for sale above $100,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for $4,000-$7,000.
Another iconic rookie card is the 1972 Nolan Ryan card from Topps. Ryan went on to break virtually every pitching record and is considered arguably the greatest power pitcher of all-time. Like Griffey, high-grade versions of the Ryan rookie have sold above $100,000. Near mint copies still demand $2,000-$4,000 due to Ryan’s legendary career and the iconic design featuring him throwing a fastball.
Two other big names with valuable 1970s rookie cards are Reggie Jackson and Rod Carew. Jackson’s 1971 Topps rookie has sold for over $20,000 in mint condition. Well-centered near mint copies can still bring $1,000-$2,000. Carew had an amazing career batting .328 and won 7 batting titles. High-end versions of his 1969 Topps rookie have sold for over $10,000, while near mint copies sell in the $500-$1,000 range.
Steve Garvey had a superb career primarily with the Dodgers and was a consistent All-Star and batting champion. His 1970 Topps rookie remains highly sought after by Dodgers collectors. Mint condition versions have cracked $5,000 at auction over the years. Near mint copies usually sell in the $300-$500 range. Dodger fans and vintage collectors especially are often pursuing higher-grade versions of Garvey’s first card.
Other Dodger rookies from the 1970s that are worth noting include Ron Cey from 1971 and Bill Russell from 1973. Both were staples for the Dodgers for many years. Mint Cey rookies have brought over $3,000, with near mints around $200-$300. Russell mint rookie cards have cracked $1,000 at auction, with near mints typically $75-$150.
A popular but more affordable 1970s rookie is Tom Seaver’s 1967 Topps card. Seaver was one of the greatest pitchers ever with the Mets and Reds and 3,000 career strikeouts. High-grade Seaver rookies are still sought after in the $2,000 range, but most near mint versions are only $50-$100. The 1967 design was a favorite of collectors and lends value to Seaver’s first card.
It’s not only rookie cards that held value from the 1970s. Stars entering their primes saw some of their best card designs released. One such example is the 1974 Topps Nolan Ryan card, perhaps the most iconic non-rookie card in the hobby. Known as the “Ryan Express” card due to the amazing action shot, high-grade versions have sold over $15,000. Near mint copies still sell for $500-$1,000 despite being produced in enormous quantities.
The 1976 George Brett rookie card is considered one of the finest second-year cards from the 1970s as well. Brett had a remarkable career primarily with Kansas City and was a perennial batting champion. Gem mint ’76 Brett cards have sold above $10,000. Near mints in the $500 range are much more realistic for today’s market, but it shows the lasting appeal of one of the games all-time great hitters.
Two more all-time greats with their best 1970s cards being produced after rookie years were Steve Carlton and Reggie Jackson. Carlton’s 1972 Topps card highlight’s his amazing season winning 27 games and taking home the Cy Young. High-end versions have sold for $5,000+. Near mints are around $150-$300. Jackson’s 1972 All-Star card from Topps is considered one of the best of his career. Gems have topped $3,000 with most near mints $100-200.
The 1970s introduced legendary players and ballpark designs on cardboard that are still prized by collectors today. With a bit of research, there are investment opportunities by identifying stars who burst onto the scene or hit their primes represented by their best 1970s cards today selling for hundreds to thousands. For those willing to spend the time searching thrift shops and estate sales, hidden gems could unlock profits for patient collectors. The 1970s may lack the nostalgia of the golden era, but iconic rookies and star cards retain incredible value despite many being mass produced over 50 years ago.
