The 1977 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. Featuring 660 total cards, the ’77 Topps set showcased a number of soon-to-be Hall of Famers and rookie cards that have stood the test of time. While not the most valuable set overall, it contains several highly sought after cards that still excite collectors today. Let’s take a closer look at some of the true gems from the 1977 Topps collection.
One of the most well-known and valuable rookie cards from the set is #550 Eddie Murray of the Baltimore Orioles. Murray went on to have a Hall of Fame career hitting 504 home runs and driving in over 1,900 runs. His rookie card has always been a highly coveted piece for Orioles and Murray collectors alike. In near mint to mint condition, PSA/BGS graded examples of this card regularly sell for $500-1000. Another hugely popular rookie is #468 Fernando Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Dodgers. “Fernandomania” took LA by storm in 1981 when the Mexican pitcher went 13-7 with a 2.48 ERA in his rookie season. His card is one of the most iconic in Dodgers history and has sold for over $2000 in high grades.
Two other rookie cards that carry significant value are #89 Dave Parker of the Pittsburgh Pirates and #157 Ron Guidry of the New York Yankees. Parker went on to win the 1978 NL MVP and two batting titles in the late 70s/early 80s. High grade copies of his rookie have sold for $800-1500. Guidry captured the 1978 AL Cy Young after going 25-3 with a 1.74 ERA. Considered the premier Yankees pitching card of the era, a PSA 10 sold for over $4000 in 2021. For Hall of Fame veterans, the #1 card of Reggie Jackson stands out. One of the most charismatic players of the 1970s, “Mr. October” was still in his prime with the Yankees. High grade Jackson rookies from his 1969 Baltimore days are valued at $1000-2000.
Aside from rookies, the 1977 set featured several iconic stars in the midst of their careers. #93 George Brett was one of the premier third basemen in baseball throughout the 70s and 80s. His card from this set in a PSA 10 grade recently sold for $1500. #181 Mike Schmidt was another elite third sacker, having just won the 1976 NL MVP. High grade examples of his ’77 Topps card have reached $800-1000. #300 Nolan Ryan was still in the early stages of his record breaking career with the Angels. His intimidating on-card photo made this one of the most memorable Ryan issues ever. Graded versions have topped $1000. #451 Tom Seaver was the ace of the Cincinnati Reds staff in 1977. As one of the greatest right-handed pitchers ever, his cards from the late 60s/70s era are always in demand. A PSA 10 recently sold for $900.
The 1977 set also featured several stars in the midst of historic seasons. #104 Steve Garvey’s card highlights his 1977 NL MVP year with the Dodgers. He hit .326 with 22 HR and 115 RBI on his way to winning that award. A PSA 10 recently sold for $650. #176 Jim Rice won the AL batting title and led the league in hits in 1977 for the Boston Red Sox. His card showing his powerful swing is a favorite of Red Sox collectors. PSA 10s have reached $500. #229 Rod Carew captured his 5th career batting title in 1977, hitting .388 for the Minnesota Twins. His sweet swing is captured perfectly on this issue which have sold for $400-500 graded. #234 Reggie Jackson’s card is a must-have for any Yankee collector. He hit .300 with 32 HR and 110 RBI to power the 1977 World Series champions. PSA 10s have topped $600.
While not the most valuable set overall, the 1977 Topps baseball card issue contains numerous true gems that are as iconic and collectible today as they were 45 years ago. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Murray, Valenzuela, Parker and Guidry anchor the set alongside veteran stars like Brett, Schmidt, Ryan and Seaver. Issue also highlights historic individual seasons from the likes of Garvey, Rice and Carew. When found in high grades, many of these cards can still command prices in the hundreds to thousands of dollars. The photos, designs and players featured make the ’77 Topps set beloved by collectors both young and old.
