The 1988 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most iconic and valuable releases from the late 1980s. While it didn’t feature the same star rookies as sets from 1987 and 1989, the 1988 Donruss set still contained several highly sought after cards that have stood the test of time. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best and most valuable cards collectors searched for in 1988 Donruss packs over 30 years ago.
One of the true gems of the 1988 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. While Griffey Jr. had made his MLB debut in 1987 and appeared in Topps and Fleer sets that year, his 1988 Donruss rookie was the first true “rookie card” issued for the budding superstar. Even as a 19-year old in 1988, Griffey Jr. was already showing flashes of brilliance and five-tool talent that would make him a future Hall of Famer. His iconic swing and effortless athleticism translated perfectly to his rookie card image. Over the decades, Griffey Jr.’s 1988 Donruss rookie has become one of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball cards ever made. In gem mint condition, it can sell for over $10,000 or more today.
Another huge star of the late 1980s and 1990s who debuted in the 1988 Donruss set was Tom Glavine. Like Griffey Jr., Glavine made his MLB debut in 1987 but 1988 Donruss marked his true rookie card year. Glavine would go on to win 305 career games and two Cy Young Awards over a storied career mostly spent with the Atlanta Braves. His iconic windup and pinpoint control made him a fans’ favorite for over two decades in the big leagues. In high grade, the Glavine 1988 Donruss rookie has reached over $1,000 at auction. It remains one of the most significant rookie cards for the legendary left-handed pitcher.
While 1988 didn’t feature the same star-studded rookie class as 1987 or 1989, there were still some other notable rookies finding their way into packs that year. One was slugging first baseman Mark McGwire, who had just finished his first full season with the A’s in 1987. “Big Mac” was already showing signs of his prodigious power with 49 home runs in just his second MLB campaign. His iconic 1988 Donruss rookie card featured him swinging away and captured the attention of collectors. Even graded low, it can still sell for $100-$200 today. Another power-hitting rookie was Cleveland’s Joe Carter, who launched 30 home runs in 1987. His rookie card from 1988 Donruss remains one of the key cards for the future World Series hero.
In addition to top rookies, 1988 Donruss was packed with stars of the day in their baseball primes. One of the true heavyweight hitters of the late 1980s chasing the single season home run record was Oakland’s Jose Canseco. His 1988 Donruss card featured one of the most muscular physiques ever seen on a baseball card. Even graded low, it remains quite valuable in the $50-100 range. Another massive slugger tearing up the league was Baltimore’s Cal Ripken Jr. in the midst of his consecutive games played streak. His iconic image and accomplishments make his 1988 Donruss card a must-have for Orioles and Ripken collectors.
Pitching legends were also well-represented in the 1988 Donruss set. Nolan Ryan was in his age 40 season but still firing fastballs at triple digit velocities as a member of the Astros. His iconic windup and blazing heat translated perfectly to his iconic card image from that year. For Dodger fans and collectors, there was the card of Orel Hershiser on the cusp of his record-setting 59 consecutive scoreless innings during the 1988 season. Cards of these future Hall of Famers always hold value.
Beyond the stars, 1988 Donruss also featured popular team sets that were highly sought after. The Cincinnati Reds team cards paid tribute to the “Nasty Boys” bullpen of Rob Dibble, Randy Myers, and Norm Charlton dominating late innings. For Mets fans, there was an exciting team card highlighting the “Worst to First” young core of Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry, and Gary Carter. Even division winner cards like the 1988 AL East Champion Detroit Tigers maintained relevance.
In terms of design, 1988 Donruss cards continued many of the bold stylistic choices that had become synonymous with the brand in the 1980s. Bright neon colors popped off the cardboard. Thick borders wrapped around dynamic action shot images. Cartoonish team wordmarks added extra flair. The set size also expanded to over 700 cards as Donruss included more variations, parallels and extras to feed the voracious appetite of collectors at the time.
In the over 30 years since their original release, the standout rookie cards and stars of 1988 Donruss have only increased in popularity and value as the set has cemented its place as a true vintage classic. While it may not have had the star power of 1987 or 1989, savvy collectors knew even in 1988 that future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr. and Glavine were finding their cardboard legs. For fans of 1980s design, powerful sluggers, and rookie card treasures, 1988 Donruss endures as one of the most memorable and investable sets from the junk wax era. Its cards still excite collectors today.
