The 1977 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. While it did not feature any true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, the ’77 Topps set showcased some of the game’s biggest stars from that era. With 760 total cards in the base set, there were plenty of notable players to collect. Here are some of the standout cards from the 1977 Topps release that still hold value today among collectors.
Reggie Jackson (#1) – “Mr. October” was coming off his legendary 3-home run World Series performance for the 1976 champion New York Yankees. His card led off the set as the #1 card, a prestigious placement befitting his superstar status. In near-mint condition, this Jackson card can fetch over $150 due to his iconic image and playing reputation.
George Brett (#16) – The future Hall of Famer was just starting to emerge as a star for the Kansas City Royals in 1977. His sweet left-handed swing is captured on this card in the midst of a follow-through. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies have sold for over $300.
Rod Carew (#25) – Already a six-time batting champion, Carew was in his prime for the Minnesota Twins in 1977. His smooth lefty swing is perfectly portrayed on this card. High-grade versions remain quite valuable at $150-$200.
Mike Schmidt (#73) – “The Hammer” was just beginning his assault on the National League home run leaderboards. This early card shows the budding power potential of the Philadelphia Phillies third baseman. Near-mint copies sell for $75-$100.
Nolan Ryan (#138) – “The Ryan Express” was still with the California Angels and already displaying his blazing fastball. His over-the-top delivery makes this one of the set’s most memorable images. PSA 10 Gems have topped $500.
Steve Garvey (#156) – As the leader of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Garvey was one of the premier first basemen in baseball. This card portrays “Mr. Clean” perfectly and remains a popular Dodgers card. Near-mint copies sell for $50-$75.
Thurman Munson (#161) – The Yankees’ captain and heart-and-soul was coming off his second career All-Star selection. This card is a reminder of Munson’s skills and tragic passing just two years later. High-grade versions demand $75-$100.
Tom Seaver (#180) – “Tom Terrific” was still in his prime for the Cincinnati Reds after a trade from the Mets. His overhand delivery and intense focus exude his pitching dominance. PSA 10 Gems have sold for over $400.
Johnny Bench (#222) – Already a 10-time All-Star and 2-time MVP, Bench was still in his physical prime catching for the Big Red Machine. This card captured the essence of the future Hall of Famer. Near-mint copies sell for $50-$75.
Rich Gossage (#310) – “Goose” was just breaking in as the Pirates’ fireballing reliever. His card portrays the intensity he brought from the bullpen. High-grade versions remain quite valuable at $100-$150.
Rollie Fingers (#447) – The crafty lefty was coming off back-to-back World Series titles with the A’s. His unique delivery and mustache made this one of the set’s most identifiable images. Near-mint copies sell for $50-$75.
Pete Rose (#598) – As the heart of the Big Red Machine’s offense, “Charlie Hustle” was in his prime. This card depicts Rose’s all-out playing style that made him a 17-time All-Star. Near-mint copies sell for $50-$75.
While not the most valuable set overall due to its large size, 1977 Topps remains a fan favorite for its memorable stars and iconic photography. High-grade versions of the players featured here will always be in demand among collectors due to their subject’s playing reputations and importance during that era of baseball history. The ’77 Topps set is a must-have for any vintage baseball card collection.
