The 1989 Donruss baseball set is considered one of the most iconic and collectible issues in the brand’s history. While not quite as renowned as the original 1987 set that helped spark the modern baseball card boom, the ’89 Donruss release featured several young stars and Hall of Famers that have stood the test of time. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and sought-after rookie and veteran cards from this premium release.
Ken Griffey Jr. (Card #1)
Undoubtedly the crown jewel of the ’89 Donruss set is the rookie card of Ken Griffey Jr. Widely considered one of the greatest five-tool players of all time, Griffey was already generating huge buzz in his early career with the Seattle Mariners. His iconic Donruss rookie of him swinging a bat with a bright smile is one of the most iconic baseball card images ever. In top gem mint condition, this card can fetch over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies trade hands for $1,000 or more due to Griffey’s popularity and the high demand for his rookie. This is arguably the most valuable card from the entire 1980s decade.
Barry Bonds (Card #18)
Another highly sought rookie is Barry Bonds, who was already proving himself as a budding superstar in his early Pirates days. Like Griffey, Bonds went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is one of the most prolific home run hitters in baseball history. His ’89 Donruss rookie isn’t quite as iconic an image as Griff’s, but it remains a key piece for vintage Pirates and rookie collectors. Near mint examples can sell for $500-800, with gem mint copies reaching $1,000+ due to his legendary career accomplishments.
Tom Glavine (Card #119)
The ’89 Donruss set featured rookie cards of not one but two future 300-game winners and Hall of Famers. In addition to Griffey and Bonds, Atlanta Braves lefty Tom Glavine had his rookie issue as well. Glavine went on to have an illustrious career mainly with the Braves, winning two Cy Young Awards and dominating in the postseason. His rookie isn’t in the same demand tier as Griffey or Bonds, but it’s still a highly regarded card in the vintage Braves and rookie collector community. Near mint Glavine rookies sell in the $150-250 range.
Greg Maddux (Card #142)
Rounding out the quartet of future Hall of Fame rookie cards is Chicago Cubs righty Greg Maddux. Like Glavine, Maddux had a storied career winning multiple Cy Youngs and playing a key role in the Braves’ 1990s dynasty. His ’89 Donruss rookie is iconic not just for his skills but for the odd body position captured. It’s one of the more recognizable and amusing vintage baseball images. High grade Maddux rookies in the $300-500 range show his strong fan following and place among the best from this classic set.
Ozzie Smith (Card #151)
As for veteran stars, one of the most iconic in the set is St. Louis Cardinals wizard Ozzie Smith. Known as “The Wizard” for his highlight-reel defensive skills, Smith was a 13-time Gold Glove winner and beloved member of the 1980s Cardinals. His ’89 Donruss photo shows him posing with glove and ball, capturing his smooth fielding abilities. High grade Smiths sell consistently in the $75-150 range due to his popularity, Hall of Fame career, and status as a Cardinals and defensive specialist legend.
Nolan Ryan (Card #154)
No discussion of the best 1989 Donruss cards would be complete without including Texas Rangers flamethrower Nolan Ryan. The all-time strikeout king was still in his legendary early-40s career during this time, dominating hitters with his 100 mph fastball. His ’89 Donruss issue features an action shot of him firing a pitch. As one of the most renowned pitchers ever, Ryan cards hold value extremely well. Near mint copies trade around $150-250 thanks to his iconic career and star power.
Kirby Puckett (Card #167)
Another hugely popular veteran star featured is Kirby Puckett of the World Champion Minnesota Twins. Puckett was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star and one of the best all-around players in baseball during this year. His iconic smile and enthusiasm for the game resonated with many fans. Near mint Puckett cards from ’89 Donruss sell in the $75-150 range. Like Smith and Ryan, his popularity, two-time World Series titles, and status as a Twins legend keep his classic cards highly collected.
Rickey Henderson (Card #176)
No discussion of the greatest thieves in baseball history is complete without the incomparable Rickey Henderson. The all-time stolen base king was terrorizing AL pitchers and outfields with the Oakland A’s during this time. His ’89 Donruss issue portrays him in typical slashing action. Even in well-centered near mint condition, Henderson’s cards can sell for $100-200 due to his unparalleled base-running skills, career records, and Hall of Fame enshrinement. He remains one of the most electrifying players ever captured on cardboard.
While not quite as renowned as the 1987 Donruss set, the 1989 release featured a treasure trove of future Hall of Famers, superstars, and iconic veterans. Rookie gems of Griffey, Bonds, Glavine, and Maddux anchor the set’s investment potential. Meanwhile, stars like Smith, Ryan, Puckett, and Henderson ensured this set was also loaded with memorable veterans. Whether seeking key pieces for team and player collections, or valuable vintage cardboard in its own right, the 1989 Donruss baseball issue endures as one of the most recognized and collected releases from the sport’s hobby golden age.
