The 1970s was a revolutionary decade for baseball cards. Following a period of stagnation in the 1960s, the hobby experienced a renaissance driven by new manufacturers, innovative designs, and stars of a new generation. Whether you’re a collector looking for iconic cards to chase or a fan wanting to learn about the era’s most notable players, here are some of the best and most desirable baseball cards from the 1970s.
1971 Topps #1 Joe DiMaggio: One of the most recognizable cards of all-time, the 1971 Topps #1 Joe DiMaggio is legendary for featuring an iconic photograph of the Yankee Clipper in batting practice. While DiMaggio had been retired for over 15 years by 1971, his status as one of the game’s all-time greats made his inclusion in the set a no-brainer. The photo, simplicity of design, and historical significance combine to make this one of the most coveted vintage cards. PSA 10 examples now sell for well over $10,000.
1972 Topps #20 Nolan Ryan: Nolan Ryan’s first Topps rookie card came in this iconic 1972 issue. Featuring a classic action shot of the flamethrower mid-windup, it captures one of the game’s most intimidating pitchers in his early Mets days before he’d develop into a true legend. High-grade versions command huge prices today as one of the most important rookie cards of the decade. Even well-centered PSA 8s can sell for over $1,000.
1974 Topps #1 Hank Aaron: As Hank Aaron was chasing Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record in 1974, Topps honored the Braves slugger with the #1 card in the set. It features one of the simplest but most striking photos ever used on a baseball card, showing Aaron in the on-deck circle with the record clearly on his mind. The historical significance and iconic image make this one of the crown jewels of any 1970s collection.
1975 Topps #660 Reggie Jackson: Nicknamed “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, Reggie Jackson’s monster 1973 season and World Series performance with the A’s was perfectly encapsulated in this aggressive action shot. It’s one of the most visually appealing and dynamically composed cards of the decade. High grades are scarce but command big money, with PSA 10s recently selling above $15,000.
1976 SSPC #340 George Brett: The 1976 SSPC set is one of the most coveted and collectible issues of the decade thanks to its stunning photography and innovative design. And the standout star rookie card is future Hall of Famer George Brett’s imposing batting stance captured in mid-swing. Highly off-centered, but even low-grade copies in PSA 5-6 condition sell for well over $1,000.
1977 Topps #700 Mike Schmidt: Arguably the best 3rd year card of the 1970s, Mike Schmidt’s 1977 Topps issue perfectly captures the Phillies slugger’s raw power with a classic follow-through shot. It announced Schmidt’s arrival as one of baseball’s emerging superstars before his MVP seasons of the late 1970s. High grades above PSA 8 are rare but can fetch over $5,000 on the secondary market.
1978 Topps #1 Reggie Jackson: In his walk year with the A’s, Reggie Jackson was honored with the coveted #1 card in 1978 Topps. It shows the five-time All-Star in typical aggressive style, glaring at the camera with bat raised. The iconic image encapsulated Jackson’s swagger and established this among the most visually impressive and desirable cards of the decade.
1979 Topps Traded #44 Ozzie Smith: Widely considered the finest defensive shortstop ever, Ozzie Smith’s rookie season was perfectly captured in this 1979 Topps Traded issue back when he was still an up-and-coming youngster with the Padres. It features “The Wizard” showcasing his elite range and glovework on the run. High grades are scarce but this remains one of the most iconic rookie cards from the late 1970s.
While these were some of the most notable individual cards, several entire sets from the 1970s stand out as true classics in the hobby. The 1975 Topps set, with its photo variations and stars of the era like Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, and Rod Carew, remains a fan favorite. The 1979 Topps set is also beloved for its vibrant photography and capturing a transitional period in the game. And the 1976 SSPC set, with its innovative design and pristine images, is widely considered the high point of 1970s set design.
Whether you’re looking for iconic rookie cards, all-time greats in action, or beautifully designed complete sets, the 1970s was truly a golden age of baseball cards that produced many of the hobby’s most timeless and collectible issues. For any fan or investor, treasures from this revolutionary decade are sure to stand the test of time. The visuals, historical significance, and star power of the best 1970s cards ensure they’ll remain hugely popular with collectors for generations to come.
