The 1989 Upper Deck baseball card set was truly groundbreaking and contained some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever produced. Upper Deck’s innovative manufacturing and quality control processes revolutionized the hobby and set the standard that remains to this day. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from the ’89 Upper Deck set that have become highly sought after by collectors.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Card #1)
Undoubtedly the most famous and valuable card from the 1989 Upper Deck set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already making a name for himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars in 1989 and his rookie card is considered by many to be the finest baseball card ever produced. The Griffey rookie card features a stunning action photo of “The Kid” swinging the bat with excellent centering and image quality that was lightyears ahead of Topps at the time.
In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie card has sold for over $100,000 at auction in recent years, making it one of the most expensive sports trading cards ever. Even well-centered near mint copies still fetch thousands. The Griffey rookie is iconic not just for its subject but for really putting Upper Deck on the map and showing collectors the potential for quality that captured the player’s likeness perfectly. It’s truly a work of art and the crown jewel of any serious baseball card collection.
Nolan Ryan (#144)
“The Ryan Express” was still in his prime with the Texas Rangers in 1989 and his action shot card from the ’89 Upper Deck set is a fan favorite. The card features Ryan mid-windup, glaring in with blazing intensity. It’s an absolutely stunning image that really captures the flamethrower’s competitive fire on the mound.
As one of the most intimidating and decorated pitchers of all-time, Ryan’s cards from the late 80s period with Texas are some of his most sought after. The ’89 Upper Deck card in particular seems to really resonate with collectors and it routinely sells for hundreds of dollars in high-grade. It’s an iconic snapshot of one of baseball’s most imposing hurlers during his peak years.
Ozzie Smith (#531)
No one played shortstop with more flair and finesse than “The Wizard” and his 1989 Upper Deck card is a perfect representation of his elite defensive skills. The action shot features Smith gracefully backhanding a ground ball, showcasing his trademark smoothness and athleticism in the field.
Smith was still an All-Star calibre player for the Cardinals in 1989 and his cards from this era hold a special place in many collector’s hearts. High-grade copies of Ozzie’s ’89 Upper Deck card in the BGS/PSA 9-10 range can sell for $200-300. It’s one of the best defensive highlights from the set and a must-have for any Smith collection.
Rickey Henderson (#182)
Arguably the best leadoff hitter and baserunner in MLB history, Rickey Henderson was in his absolute prime with the Oakland A’s in 1989. His Upper Deck card from that year shows “The Man of Steal” digging for third base, exemplifying his unparalleled speed and instincts on the basepaths.
Henderson was the quintessential game-changing table-setter during his playing days and his cards remain fan favorites to this day. Well-centered mint copies of Rickey’s ’89 Upper Deck routinely sell for $100-150 given his popularity and iconic status in the game. It’s one of the set’s best action shots and a true reflection of Henderson’s one-of-a-kind talents.
Barry Bonds (#234)
Though he was still early in his career, Barry Bonds was already establishing himself as one of the game’s most feared power hitters by 1989. His Upper Deck card features a classic Bonds batting stance with his signature compact, coiled setup at the plate ready to unleash.
Bonds would go on to shatter the all-time home run record and many consider him the greatest pure hitter of all-time. His rookie and early career cards are some of the most desirable on the vintage market. High-grade copies of Barry’s ’89 Upper Deck routinely sell for $150-250 given his all-time great status. It’s a perfect snapshot of the skills that would make him a legendary slugger.
Cal Ripken Jr. (#108)
By 1989, Cal Ripken Jr. was already well on his way to breaking Lou Gehrig’s legendary consecutive games played streak. His Upper Deck card shows him fielding a grounder at shortstop, highlighting his tremendous durability and defensive abilities.
Ripken’s iconic streak endeared him to an entire generation of baseball fans and his cards from the late 80s/early 90s Baltimore years are extremely popular. Well-centered PSA/BGS 9+ copies of Cal’s ’89 UD card can sell for $100-150. It’s one of the finer shortstop highlights from the set and a great way to commemorate Ripken’s legendary career.
The 1989 Upper Deck set was truly revolutionary for the hobby and contained some of the most iconic rookie cards and player highlights ever. Cards like the Griffey, Ryan, Smith, Henderson, Bonds, and Ripken discussed here have become benchmark issues that are staples in collections worldwide due to their subject’s all-time great status and the sheer artistry of the photography. The ’89 Upper Deck set helped usher in the modern era of manufacturing quality control and design that we still enjoy today. It’s no wonder these special cards continue to captivate collectors and hold their value decades later.
