Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

HIGH VALUE BASEBALL CARDS 1970s

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The 1970s were a transformative time for baseball cards. As interest in collecting grew substantially during this decade, several iconic rookie cards emerged that would go on to become the most valuable cards ever produced. Fueled by rookie seasons from future Hall of Famers like Reggie Jackson and George Brett, the 1970s witnessed the sharp rise of multiple highly coveted rookie cards that would cement their places as benchmarks in the hobby for decades to come.

Perhaps the most legendary baseball card of the 1970s and one of the most valuable sports cards ever is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. Widely considered the “Mona Lisa” of trading cards due to its rarity, condition, and subject matter, a PSA 10 Gem Mint Mantle rookie in 1952 Topps is currently valued at over $2.88 million, making it by far the most valuable card of the era. While produced two decades earlier, demand and prices for the Mantle rookie skyrocketed through the 1970s as his legend and status as “The Mick” grew tremendously. Serious collectors spent entire careers and fortunes hunting for high grade copies of this elusive piece of cardboard history.

Close behind the Mantle rookie is arguably the most iconic 1970s card, the 1975 Ken Griffey, Sr. rookie produced by Topps. Griffey’s son would go on to have a similarly huge career over 20 years later, but the elder Griffey’s rookie established the foundation as one of the key cards that spurred the entire rise of interest in player collectibles during the ’70s. A PSA 10 Griffey Sr. rookie now stands as the second highest valued ’70s card at around $690,000. This singularly eye-catching and historically important card kicked off the new wave of attention on rookie cards that defined the decade.

Also achieving legendary status in the 1970s was Nolan Ryan’s 1968 Topps rookie card. Ryan’s combination of a long, high-strikeout career and incredibly photogenic rookie card made it extraordinarily desirable for collectors. While raw ungraded copies can still be obtained for under $1000, a pristine PSA 10 gem is worth over $450,000, reinforcing its place as one of the elite cards not just of the decade but in history. Featuring Ryan’s compact windup and red cap against a simple blue background, this card established itself as a primary target for collectors enamored with the fireballer’s raw abilities.

Beyond the Ryan rookie, other valuable 1968 cards included the Dick Allen and Roberto Clemente Topps rookies. Allen and Clemente both had Hall of Fame caliber runs and their rookies became highly regarded, with a PSA 10 Allen now valued around $90,000 and a PSA 10 Clemente reaching a staggering $350,000 due to Clemente’s untimely death in 1972 adding extra layers of lore. These cards established 1968 Topps as one of the standout releases of the early 1970s boom.

The 1971 Topps set continued pushing the boundaries with the first appearances of other all-time greats. Thurman Munson’s colorful and action-packed rookie established itself as a must-have for Yankee collectors, with a PSA 10 ranking at $125,000 currently. In addition, Nolan Ryan’s first card with the Angels showed his blazing heat on his way to a then-record 383 career strikeouts, also valuable at $20,000 PSA 10.

Few rookie classes can match the star power and record-holding performances of the 1974 set, though. Future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Reggie Jackson, and George Brett all debuted exceptionally photogenic and evocative rookie cards that year. While Aaron already had an illustrious career by 1974, his sharp-shooting 500th home run card from that set gained acclaim for capturing one of baseball’s most iconic records. Brett’s game-action card demonstrated his smooth swing clearly en route to a .308 career average. But Jackson’s toothy smile and determination made his 1974 Topps card the banner rookie of the bunch, valued over $185,000 PSA 10 graded today.

The second half of the 1970s continued pushing rookie cards further into the stratosphere. In 1975, a clean-shaven Fred Lynn grinned from his Topps issue on the way to AL Rookie of the Year, making it one of the most desired ’75s at $30,000 PSA 10. Then in 1976, future Hall of Famers like Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, and Eddie Murray all debuted in Topps sets that further cemented the obsession with new prospects. But arguably the most historically important card was not a rookie – it was the error-filled 1976 SSPC Yankees team issue, the rarest and priciest modern baseball card valued over $2.8 million in top condition today. This one-of-a-kind mistake served as the poster child for what could be achieved in the booming modern collecting market.

The 1970s concluded with one of the most iconic rookie classes ever seen in 1977 Topps, including George Brett’s intense glare preceding a .305 average over three decades, Dave Parker posing with intense ferocity before winning two batting titles, and Tom Seaver’s classic windup photograph from an era when 300 wins seemed impossible. Quality 10s of these cards now sell in the six-figure range, closing out a spectacular decade that witnessed the hobby blossom from niche pastime into today’s billion-dollar industry.

The 1970s established a golden era of valuable baseball cards that included legends like Nolan Ryan and Reggie Jackson and superstars like George Brett whose rookie cards still reign as collectibles over 40 years later. Fueled by a surge of interest in the hobby and breakthrough rookie seasons from future Hall of Famers, iconic cards were born that would drive prices and demand for decades to come. From the Mantle 1952 to the Seaver 1977, those ten years reshaped the collecting world by creating cards of such significance, condition, and rareness that they remain industry-defining benchmarks today. The stellar lineups and incredible photographs enshrined in 1970s cardboard launched the modern era of baseball memorabilia.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS IN 1994

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The year 1994 brought many changes and new opportunities to the baseball card collecting hobby. For decades, the golden era of the 1950s dominated discussions around the most valuable and iconic cards. As the 1990s progressed, cards from the late 1980s and early 1990s started gaining more recognition from collectors. Below is an in-depth look at some of the most valuable baseball cards from 1994 based on their rarity, condition, and historical significance.

One of the most coveted cards from 1994 was the ultra-rare Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck Autograph rookie card. Griffey was already well on his way to superstardom after being called up to the major leagues in 1989 with the Seattle Mariners at just 19 years old. He quickly became one of the most exciting and dominant players in baseball thanks to his prolific power and elite defense in center field. Naturally, collectors went crazy searching packs for Griffey’s rookie card in the 1989 Upper Deck set. In 1994, Upper Deck released factory-authenticated autographed rookie cards of Griffey that were inserted extremely sparingly, roughly 1 per every 12,000 packs. This made the Griffey auto arguably the biggest chase card of the entire year. Graded examples in gem mint condition routinely sold for well over $10,000 in the mid-1990s, a staggering price point for a card from the early 90s. Even today, a PSA 10 example would eclipse $100,000 at auction.

Another incredibly rare and valuable card from 1994 was the Ken Griffey Jr. Pinnacle Brand X RC Printing Plate. Pinnacle’s Brand X line featured 1/1 printing plates of select rookie cards. In Griffey’s case, only a single plate existed. Printing plates are the thin piece of metal or plastic that an actual printed card comes off of in the production process. They hold essentially zero printed ink or image and are the ultimate proof that only one of a specific card exists in the world. This ultra-rare Griffey plate changed hands privately in the mid-90s for a rumored price of $25,000 cash, a figure that seems quite reasonable given its legendary one-of-one status associated with one of the era’s biggest stars.

In terms of single base cards from standard sets, the undisputed heavyweight champion of 1994 was the infamous 1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig rookie card. Considered the “Mona Lisa” of the hobby, the Gehrig rookie held an almost mythical status. It was truly the holy grail for any vintage collector. In 1994, a PSA 8 copy was purchased for a then-record $63,500, shattering expectations. Another PSA 8.5 example crossed the auction block that same year for $72,500. Condition was absolutely paramount for the Gehrig since even slight flaws could vaporize six-figure value. But for a true gem in the lofty reaches of PSA 9 or above, a quarter million dollars wasn’t an unreasonable target price point in the mid-90s market. Today, pristine PSA 10 1933 Goudey Gehrigs bring well into the millions.

For collectors seeking rarities and stars from the 1980s/early 90s era, few compared to the sheer mystique and allure of the Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie. While its print run as the flagship card in the pioneering 1989 Upper Deck set was sizable, high-grade specimens remained tough to come by. In 1994, a PSA 9 sold for $5,800, with the threshold to crack five-figures requiring absolute perfection in PSA 10. These numbers seem almost quaint by today’s hyper-inflated standards, yet they underscored how Griffey’s rise to stardom translated into mushrooming values for his rookie card amidst growing popularity in the hobby. For the true condition aristocrat chasing 8/10 quality, the Griffey rookie manned the heights as a cornerstone piece for mid-90s collections.

The spectacular career of Barry Bonds was also taking shape in the early-mid 1990s. Fresh off winning back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1992-1993 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bonds was viewed as perhaps the best all-around player in baseball. Any of his early Pirates cards gained traction, led by his flashy 1986 Topps Traded rookie which was inserting exceeding scarce in packs that year. In 1994, a PSA 9 copy pulled $1,000 while a PSA 10 soared to $2,200. Bonds also had a star-studded rookie season in 1986 with the MLB flagship Topps set, and pristine examples reached $800-$1,000 in ’94. For those seeking an even earlier Bonds card before his ascension, there was impressive demand for his 1984 Fleer rookie which topped $500 PSA 9 that year.

Two other dazzling young stars who ignited collector interest in 1994 were pitching phenoms Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux. Both had broken out in 1992 to help lead the Atlanta Braves to a improbable World Series title. Their output and durability over the ensuing years cemented their statuses as surefire future Hall of Famers. Among the Glavine and Maddux rookie cards that collectors scrambled to acquire graded specimens of in ’94 included their 1987 Topps, 1988 Donruss, and 1988 Fleer issues. Particularly hot was Glavine’s flagship ’87 Topps RC, with PSA 9s bringing $450 and PSA 10s soaring to $800. Meanwhile, Maddux’s comparable ’87 Topps rookie hit $375/$650 respectively. Their October brilliance for Atlanta translated directly to booming values on the collecting market.

The baseball card market in 1994 saw escalating prices behind superstar talents like Griffey, Bonds, Glavine and Maddux who were dominating on the diamond. Iconic vintage cards led by the 1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig rookie continued appreciating rapidly. And supply and demand dynamics fueled astonishing values for one-of-a-kind ultrarare parallels. While financial bubbles have come and gone in the ensuing years, these players and cards from 1994 remain among the most historically important and valuable in the hobby to this day. The foundational increase in collector enthusiasm and secondary market prices set during this period helped propel the sports memorabilia industry to unprecedented heights.

CARDBOARD STORAGE BOXES FOR BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to storing your valuable baseball card collection, proper storage is crucial. Baseball cards can be damaged by improper storage conditions like humidity, moisture, heat, and light exposure. This is where cardboard storage boxes come in. Cardboard boxes provide an affordable and durable storage solution to protect your baseball cards.

There are a few key factors to consider when choosing cardboard storage boxes for your baseball card collection: size, acid-free/archival quality cardboard, sealed flaps/lids, and organization. Let’s break these down in more detail:

Size: You’ll want to choose a box that is not too big or too small for the number of cards you need to store. Oversized boxes can cause cards to shift around and potentially get damaged. Undersized boxes will cause the cards to be crammed in too tightly. Measure your cards and do a quick count so you get a box that fits your collection well without extra empty space.

Acid-free/archival quality cardboard: Standard cardboard can potentially damage cards over long-term storage due to acidity. Look for boxes made with acid-free or archival quality cardboard. This higher quality cardboard is pH neutral and will not yellow or degrade your cards the way regular cardboard can after years of storage.

Sealed flaps/lids: Make sure the box you choose has flaps or a lid that can be securely sealed closed to protect contents from dust and potential moisture/humidity issues. Some options have adhesive flaps while others have locking/interlocking designs to stay firmly shut. A tight seal is important for long-term preservation.

Organization: Consider boxes that have dividers, sleeves, or other organizational features to keep different sets, players, years, etc neatly separated. This makes for easier finding and viewing of individual cards. Look for boxes with plenty of compartments or slots for your specific needs.

In terms of specific baseball card storage box recommendations, here are a few top options to consider:

BCW Baseball Card Storage Box (Holds 3000 Cards) – Made of acid-free cardboard with interlocking lid and base. Dividers keep cards organized by set, player, year. Affordable and durable for long-term storage. Holds 3000 cards.

Ultra Pro Series 2 Baseball Card Storage Box (Holds 5000 Cards) – Thick, acid-free cardboard with tight sealing lid. Inner dividers and sleeves to organize sets/players. Holds up to 5000 cards. Smooth operation and sturdy construction.

Card Saver II Baseball Card Storage Box by BCW (Holds 1500 Cards) – Compact size is ideal for smaller collections. Acid-free material with snap closure lid. Includes 150 card sleeves for protection. Affordable storage solution.

Denny’s Sports Games Baseball Card Box (Holds 2000 Cards) – Features sturdy cardboard construction and tight sealing lid. Includes 50 card sheets to organize sets/players. Good mid-size capacity at 2000 cards.

Once you’ve chosen the right cardboard storage box for your collection size and needs, be sure to store it properly as well. Keep boxes sealed shut in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Proper long-term storage conditions like these will help preserve your collection for decades to come. With the right cardboard box and storage method, you can feel confident your cherished baseball cards will remain protected and displayed beautifully for many years.

DONRUSS 88 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1988 Donruss baseball card set was issued during one of the most iconic eras in Major League Baseball history. The late 1980s featured legendary players like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens entering their primes. The 1988 season itself was historic as well, with the Oakland Athletics winning an MLB record 104 games that year en route to capturing the World Series title.

Donruss was one of the leading baseball card manufacturers of the time, along with Topps and Fleer. Their 1988 set contained 330 total cards and featured multi-player rookie cards as well as highlight cards focusing on individual players’ accomplishments. Some of the notable rookies that year included Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, and Barry Larkin. All three would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and help propel the sport to new popularity heights in the 1990s.

In terms of design and production quality, the 1988 Donruss set stood out from previous years. The cards utilized a clean white border around colorful team-specific backgrounds. Player names, positions, and stats were printed clearly above each image. One unique aspect was the inclusion of ticket stub designs on the reverse of many cards. This added a retro, nostalgic feel paying homage to the early days of the game. Gum was still included with each pack as well to appeal to collectors of all ages.

Distribution of 1988 Donruss cards was widespread through hobby shops, drug stores, supermarkets and other retail locations. An entire generation of fans was able to easily assemble full sets through relatively inexpensive wax packs. This helped spark the baseball card collecting craze that flourished through the end of the 20th century. While the average pack only contained 5 cards, opening that pack was an exciting experience full of possibilities in an era before inserts and parallels.

Some notable individual cards from the 1988 Donruss set included the Nolan Ryan card, which highlighted his then record 5,000th career strikeout. At age 41, Ryan was still dominating batters with his blazing fastball over two decades into his career. The Wade Boggs card paid tribute to his pursuit of the elusive .400 batting average mark. Though he fell just short, Boggs hit .366 that year and won his third consecutive batting title.

The Ozzie Smith card recognized “The Wizard” as the best defensive shortstop in baseball, having just won his fifth consecutive Gold Glove. Roger Clemens’ card depicted his dominance on the mound while pitching for the Boston Red Sox. In 1988, Clemens went 20-9 with a 2.96 ERA and led the American League with 242 strikeouts. His emerging superstardom foreshadowed a legendary career that would produce seven Cy Young Awards.

In terms of rarity and value, the 1988 Donruss set does not contain any true short prints. Due to the sheer number of cards produced and distributed that year, high-grade copies of stars like Griffey Jr., McGwire, Larkin, Ryan, Boggs, Smith and Clemens regularly command prices well above the $10-20 range for most common cards from the set. The Griffey Jr. rookie in particular has increased exponentially in value since his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2016.

For collectors and fans who came of age during baseball’s renaissance in the late 1980s and early 90s, the 1988 Donruss set holds a special nostalgia. It perfectly captures an unforgettable season and era through memorable photography and tribute to the games’ biggest names at the peak of their powers. Three decades later, the designs have stood the test of time and the roster of stars enshrines 1988 Donruss as one of the most iconic and beloved issues in the long history of sports card sets.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE MARK MCGWIRE

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Mark McGwire Baseball Cards Price Guide

Mark McGwire had one of the most prolific home run hitting careers in baseball history. As a result, McGwire baseball cards are some of the most sought after and valuable cards on the market. Let’s take an in-depth look at McGwire’s career, some of his key baseball cards, and what they can sell for according to recent price guides and sales data.

Mark McGwire’s Playing Career

McGwire played in the major leagues from 1986-2001 for the Oakland A’s and St. Louis Cardinals. Some key highlights of his impressive career include:

Setting the single season home run record in 1998 with 70 home runs, breaking Roger Maris’ longstanding record of 61 set in 1961. This record would later be broken by Barry Bonds.

Winning the 1987 AL Rookie of the Year award with the A’s.

Being a 9-time All-Star selection.

Leading the league in home runs four different seasons.

Hitting 583 career home runs, which places him 10th on the all-time home run list.

Helping the St. Louis Cardinals win the World Series in 2006 as their hitting coach.

While McGwire admitted to steroid use late in his career, his prodigious home run hitting made him one of the most popular players of the late 90s home run boom era. This fame and notoriety is reflected in the value of his rookie and star rookie cards from the 1980s.

Key Mark McGwire Baseball Cards

Here are some of McGwire’s most valuable and sought after baseball cards on the market according to recent price guides and sales data:

1987 Topps Rookie Card #181 – In gem mint 10 condition, this iconic rookie card regularly sells for $5,000-$8,000. Even in lower graded condition of 7 or 8, it can still fetch $1,000-$3,000. It’s arguably McGwire’s most desirable card.

1989 Upper Deck #1 – As one of McGwire’s earliest star cards showing his huge power potential, high graded examples can sell for $2,000-$4,000. Lower grades go for $500-1,500.

1998 Fleer Authentic #1 – Commemorating McGwire’s chase of Maris’ home run record, autographed versions can sell for over $10,000. Even unsigned, high grades go for $1,000-3,000.

1998 Topps #1 – Another card highlighting his record chase, mint condition examples sell for $500-1,000. Lower grades go for $200-500.

1998 Bowman’s Best Refractors #55, #144 – These refractors depicting McGwire in a home run swing are hotly desired by collectors. Graded gems can sell for $3,000-5,000.

2001 Upper Deck #132 – One of McGwire’s final star cards before retirement, near mint copies sell for $200-500 depending on condition.

As you can see, McGwire’s rookie and star cards from the late 80s boom of his career, as well as cards commemorating his 1998 home run record season, are the most in demand and valuable in the hobby. Near mint to gem mint 10 graded copies in particular can command the highest prices.

The Future of McGwire Cards

Even with his late career admission to steroid use slightly dampening his legacy over time, McGwire’s home run prowess and iconic 1998 season ensure his cards will remain popular with collectors. As he continues to gain consideration for the Hall of Fame as the years pass, interest and prices for his best cards may gradually rise. The 1987 Topps rookie is especially well positioned to hold and increase in value long-term.

For collectors looking to add one of the premier power hitters of the 90s to their collections, McGwire cards offer a powerful blast from the past. By checking the latest Beckett, PSA, or eBay sales data, you can get a sense of the current market value of different years and conditions. With patience and savvy buying, it’s possible to acquire affordable McGwire cards that could gain in stature down the road.

OWEN SLEEPS WITH BASEBALL CARDS UNDER HIS PILLOW BECAUSE

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Owen Maxwell is a 12-year old boy with a passion for baseball. Ever since he was 5 years old and attended his first minor league baseball game, he’s been obsessed with America’s pastime. On the drive home from the game, all Owen could talk about was how cool it would be to one day play professional baseball. He spent hours in the backyard practicing his swing and throwing, trying to emulate his favorite players.

Now in middle school and playing on his town’s Little League team, Owen takes his baseball dreams very seriously. His favorite position is pitcher because he loves being the one to call the shots on the mound. However, Owen has been struggling this season with his control and accuracy. He constantly worries that he’s not good enough and his coaches and teammates will lose faith in him.

Desperate to improve, Owen came across an unusual superstition while surfing baseball forums online late one night. He read about various major league pitchers who claimed sleeping with their baseball cards under their pillow helped them channel the skills and talents of those players into their own game. Intrigued, Owen decided it couldn’t hurt to try it out himself.

The next day after practice, Owen stopped at the local card shop on his way home. He spent his allowance and birthday money on packs of cards featuring his favorite hurlers like Clayton Kershaw, Max Scherzer, and Jacob deGrom. That night, he carefully arranged the shiny cardboard rectangles under his pillow before climbing into bed. “Sleep well, greats. Lend me your abilities,” Owen whispered with a smile.

For the next several nights, Owen religiously placed a new rotation of ace pitchers under his pillow each time he went to sleep. During the day, he’d analyze their sabermetric stats and scouting reports, trying to incorporate aspects of their arsenals into his own training regimen. His mom thought the ritual was a little silly yet harmless, while his dad was more skeptical but didn’t want to ruin Owen’s enthusiasm.

To everyone’s surprise, especially Owen’s, the superstition appeared to be paying off on the mound. In his next couple starts, Owen’s control was sharper than ever. He was painting the corners with his fastball and locating his off-speed pitches with pinpoint precision. His coaches and teammates all remarked on the noticeable improvement. Owen’s confidence skyrocketed.

Naturally, skeptics arose who doubted the placebo effect of sleeping with baseball cards. Were the cards truly enhancing Owen’s skills, or was he simply gaining experience that comes with every outing? As a science-minded kid, Owen decided to test the theory more rigorously. For his next start, he chose not to use any cards and see if his performance suffered as a result.

And suffer it did. Without the familiar feel of cardboard under his pillow, Owen reverted to old erratic habits. He couldn’t find the strike zone to save his life. Frustrated, he was pulled early having allowed multiple runs. His teammates tried to reassure him it was just an off day, but Owen knew better. That night, he doubled down on the superstition with a whole infield of cards tucked under his head.

In his return to the mound, Owen was a new pitcher. Armed with the spirit and skills of many past greats, he mowed down the opposing lineup with pinpoint control. The hits were scarce, the strikeouts were plentiful. By the seventh inning, Owen had a no-hitter going and his confidence had never been higher. Thanks to 13 heroes beneath his pillow, he had put it all together. From that point on, Owen became a dedicated believer in the power of his unorthodox good luck charm.

As his Little League season continued, Owen went on a dominant run fueled by the cardboard cut-outs granting him abilities each night. He racked up wins, strikeouts, and the admiration of coaches and scouts. Word began to spread throughout the league of this rising pitching prospect and his strange yet effective ritual. More than stats, Owen gained invaluable experience competing that boosted his skills and reputation exponentially with each outing.

By season’s end, Owen had cemented himself as the staff ace and one of the best players in the entire league. College and pro scouts took notice of his dominance on the bump. But for Owen, it was never just about himself – he felt eternally grateful to the cards beneath his pillow nightly lending him their talents. Without them, he knew he never would have fulfilled his potential or grown so much as a player in such a short time.

As Owen entered high school ball the following spring, bigger challenges awaited. The level of competition was rising along with the stakes. Even so, Owen refused to abandon his lucky charm that helped propel his development. Each night, as always, the greats of past and present nestled under his head continued to empower his abilities on the hill. Whether belief or not, the superstition brought Owen comfort and confidence.

Now a seasoned veteran at the ripe old age of 14, Owen began receiving serious attention from scouts. They were dazzled not only by his electric stuff but advanced pitchability and poise far beyond his years. Thanks to the baseball spirits granting him wisdom each night, Owen handled pressure situations like a savvy vet. The small-town kid with a big dream was becoming a can’t-miss prospect right before everyone’s eyes.

College scholarship offers and even early pro contract talks started coming Owen’s way. After so many years relying on his cardboard comrades, it was hard to imagine life without them bunking under his pillow nightly. As Owen’s future in the sport grows ever brighter, fueled by the talents of many before, he remains fiercely dedicated to his unorthodox good luck charm. Who knows how far it will take this little leaguer turned budding star. One thing is for sure – as long as those cards are by his side each night, the best is yet to come.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL VALUABLE CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set brought some very memorable and valuable rookie cards to the hobby. While not the flashiest design ever, the 1987 Donruss set featured several future Hall of Famers and all-time great players that started their careers in 1987. Many of these rookie cards have stood the test of time and remained highly collectible and expensive to this day.

One of the most well-known and valuable rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set is that of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Joe Carter. Drafted in the 4th round of the 1981 MLB Draft out of high school in California, Carter spent several years in the minors developing before making his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1984 at age 22. After a few seasons with Cleveland, Carter was traded to the Blue Jays during the 1987 season. His rookie card in the 1987 Donruss set pictures him as a member of the Indians, but still remains one of his most iconic baseball cards due to his legendary career.

Carter went on to have a spectacular 20-year MLB career, spending 12 seasons with the Blue Jays along the way. He was a 3-time All-Star and won back-to-back World Series championships with Toronto in 1992 and 1993. His walk-off World Series home run in the bottom of the 9th inning of Game 6 in 1993 is considered one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. Due to his successful career and World Series heroics, Joe Carter’s 1987 Donruss rookie card has become enormously popular with collectors and is one of the most valuable cards from the entire set. Near mint to mint quality copies routinely sell for well over $1000 today.

Other extremely valuable and sought after rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss baseball set include Cardinals greats Ozzie Smith and Vince Coleman. Smith made his MLB debut in 1978 at age 22 with the Padres and was traded to the Cardinals prior to the 1982 season. He went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with St. Louis, winning 13 consecutive Gold Gloves at shortstop from 1980-1992 and being named to 15 All-Star teams. His slick fielding and acrobatic plays making him one of the most entertaining and decorated defenders in baseball history. Despite being in his 9th MLB season in 1987, Ozzie Smith’s rookie card in Donruss is still desirable because it features his first Cardinals card. Higher graded versions can sell for $500-1000.

Vince Coleman was an electric player that made his Cardinals debut in 1985 at age 21 after being drafted 3rd overall in 1981. He immediately made an impact, stealing 110 bases in his rookie season to set a new MLB record. Coleman went on to steal over 300 bases during the 1980s to cement his status as one of history’s greatest base stealers. While injuries slowed him down later in his career, his 1987 Donruss rookie card is valuable since it portrays the beginning of his fantastic stolen base prowess with St. Louis. PSA Gem Mint 10 copies can sell upwards of $1000 online due to the card’s significance in capturing one of baseball’s all-time speedsters.

Two future Hall of Fame starting pitchers also had valuable rookie cards included in the 1987 Donruss set. Greg Maddux began his legendary career with the Chicago Cubs in 1986 at age 20 after being drafted out of high school. During his first full season in 1987, Maddux started to make his case as one of the greatest pitchers ever with a very impressive 16-6 record and 2.91 ERA at age 21. His smooth, economical motion and mastery of location would serve him tremendously over a 23-year career that saw 355 wins, four Cy Young Awards, and election to Cooperstown in 2014. Maddux’s 1987 Donruss rookie card remains highly sought after by both Cubs and Braves fans, selling for $200-500 each.

Another rookie card pitching star in the 1987 Donruss set was Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Roger Clemens. After making his MLB debut with the Red Sox in 1984, Clemens broke out in 1986 and cemented himself as one of baseball’s most dominate hurlers starting in 1987 at age 25. That season, Clemens went 22-9 with a 2.97 ERA and leading the AL in wins, strikeouts, and ERA en route to his first of seven career Cy Young Awards. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013, Clemens is considered one of the greatest pitchers ever alongside Maddux. His rookie card from Donruss is one collectors love to own, selling in the $300-700 range depending on condition.

Perhaps the most sought after and valuable card from the entire 1987 Donruss baseball set is that of Chicago White Sox outfielder/designated hitter Frank Thomas. Drafted 7th overall by the Sox in 1989 out of Auburn University, “The Big Hurt” made his MLB debut in 1990 at age 22 and got his first baseball card in Donruss the following year. What makes Thomas’ rookie card so desirable is that it predates his incredible offensive prowess he displayed starting in 1991. Between 1991-2003, Thomas slugged 448 home runs and batted .304 while twice leading the league in HR’s and RBI’s. He was named MVP in 1993 and 1994, the only player ever to win back-to-back AL honors. Inducted the Hall of Fame in 2014, PSA 10 quality rookie cards fetch well over $2,000 to this day due to rarity and Thomas’ legendary hitting statistics.

The 1987 Donruss baseball set holds a special nostalgia for collectors of that generation. While the design may not rank among the most attractive ever, the standout rookie cards it included for soon-to-be all-time MLB greats like Frank Thomas, Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, Ozzie Smith, Vince Coleman and Joe Carter ensure it will always be iconic and valuable to the hobby. Seeing these players in their beginning rookie card forms at the start of their careers adds to the enjoyment and intrigue surrounding the collectability of the 1987 Donruss baseball set over 30 years after its original release. The rookie cards from this set truly captured lightning in a bottle by portraying future Hall of Famers and MVP winners before they reached the absolute peak of their enormous talents in Major League Baseball.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MAKE YOUR OWN

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Topps is one of the most iconic brands when it comes to collecting sports cards. They are best known for producing trading cards featuring Major League Baseball players. Topps’s baseball card sets have been hugely popular since the 1950s and have sparked interest in card collecting for generations. While you can purchase ready-made packs of Topps cards at stores, making your own custom baseball cards can be a fun creative project. Here are the basics of designing and putting together your own DIY Topps-style baseball cards.

To start, you’ll need the key components that make up a standard Topps baseball card. This includes a color photograph of the player, their stats and career highlights, their signature, team logo, and other graphical elements like borders. Sourcing high-quality images of current and former MLB players is relatively easy to do with an online image search. When choosing photos, go for ones where the player is clearly visible in their uniform. You’ll also need images of team logos to include on the cards.

After selecting your player photos and logos, you can start adding the accompanying statistical information. Topps cards typically include key stats like batting average, home runs, RBIs, etc. You can look up players’ career stats online to include things like their career batting average or number of World Series wins. It’s also common for Topps cards to include accomplishments or fun facts. For example, you could note if a player has an MVP award, Gold Glove, or hit for the cycle. Getting creative with fun or obscure stats is part of what makes collecting baseball cards so interesting.

Making the cards visually appealing requires graphical elements like borders, textures, colors and fonts that mimic Topps designs. Luckily, there are many free Topps card templates available online to get the basic layouts and styles. Adobe Photoshop or another photo editing program allows for precisely placing all the elements on virtual “card stock.” While designing each custom digital card, keep in mind balanced composition so important details like uniforms, faces and logos all come through clearly. Consistency across all the cards will make your set feel like an authentic Topps product.

Once all the raw materials are assembled on individual file cards, it’s time to replicate the packaging experience. Print high-quality glossy copies of the cards on cardstock paper cut to size. Then gather them into wax packs by sealing sleeves around small stacks of cards with wax paper or plastic. Box up multiple packs along with any bonuses or prizes to complete your custom DIY Topps baseball card set. The packaging really adds to the excitement and nostalgia of opening packs in search of your favorite players.

Making personalized baseball cards is a fun creative outlet that also sparks interesting historical baseball discussions. The cards can become cherished keepsakes passed down for generations or cool gifts for fellow collectors. While Topps tightly controls its brand and IP, creating cards that pay tribute to favorite players of any era in the company’s signature style is a memorable fan project. With sufficient time and creativity invested, your handmade baseball cards could really capture the true spirit and joy of collecting just like the real Topps releases from decades past. The process allows baseball fans both young and old to experience being “card designers” themselves for a bit. Putting together a DIY custom Topps set makes for a rewarding hobby that keeps the tradition of baseball card collecting alive.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set holds significant nostalgia and value for collectors and fans of 80s baseball. With a diverse and talented roster of rookies and stars from that era, the 1987 Fleer set endures as one of the most iconic and desirable issues from the brand. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards and their estimated values in today’s market.

The 1987 Fleer set contains 374 total cards and was the only major brand to feature licenses from both MLB and the MLBPA at the time. This allowed Fleer to use player names and importantly, rookie seasons of breakout stars. One such star was Mark McGwire, who had his rookie card in the 1987 Fleer set. McGwire’s rookie is considered one of the key chase cards from the issue. In near-mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $250-500. Pristine, gem mint 10-graded copies have been known to exceed $1,000 at auction.

Another hugely valuable rookie is that of Barry Bonds. Bonds was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate by 1987. It served as his true rookie card issue. Bonds rookies in NM-MT condition reach $100-200. Higher graded 9s and 10s command $500-1,000+. The debuts of McGwire and Bonds alone make 1987 Fleer an extremely rich set for star-studded rookie cards.

But those weren’t the only rookies that year. Additional noteworthy rookies included Tom Glavine, David Justice, and Bip Roberts. Glavine rookie cards are valued around $25-50 in standard condition. Justice and Roberts rookies are worth $10-20. Still, all hold appeal as fleeting glimpses of future Hall of Famers in their earliest career stages.

Moving beyond the rookies, the 1987 Fleer set featured many established superstars of the day, including Roger Clemen, Nolan Ryan, and Don Mattingly. Clemens and Ryan, each amongst the top pitchers of their generation, had fairly common cards in the base set. Nevertheless, high-grade examples still sell for $10-20.

Mattingly, though, was one of the premier hitters in baseball in 1987. As a result, his card carries higher value. Near-mint Mattingly cards can achieve $30-50. Copies grading a 9 or 10 in terms of centering, edges and corners often reach triple digits. Condition is critical, as even slightly played copies dip down under $10.

Outside of the individual star cards, 1987 Fleer also holds value for team and league subset cards. This includes final National League Championship cards for the 1980s Mets and Cardinals teams. The Mets NL Pennant card typically sells for $15-30 based on condition. The Cardinals parallel often reaches slightly higher at $20-40.

An area that drives prices up generally for the 1987 Fleer set is the lack of plentiful high quality specimens still in existence today. Like many 1980s issues, the sheer volume produced far exceeded today’s collector population. As a result, pristine near-mint and gem mint copies can be tough to acquire. This scarcity plays a role in the valuations discussed.

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set remains a coveted part of the larger vintage card culture. With stars of the day like McGwire, Bonds, Clemens and more, it offers a view of the league at a really interesting transition point. While common cards can be had for under $10, key rookies and higher graded pieces persist as serious targets for enthusiastic collectors. From a nostalgia and historical value perspective, 1987 Fleer will surely stay relevant for years to come.

90S BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1990s was a transformative decade for baseball cards. Following the boom of the late 80s, the baseball card market stabilized and collectors became more discerning. While junk wax flooded the market in the early 90s, sought-after rookie cards and stars of the era remain highly valuable today. For collectors looking to assemble a powerful 90s collection or simply evaluate cards from their childhood, here are some of the most important baseball cards to seek out from the 1990s.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (1989 Upper Deck): Widely considered the most iconic and valuable baseball card of the decade, Griffey’s rookie is the undisputed crown jewel of any 90s collection. With its innovative design and subject matter, the Griffey UD rookie broke records and sparked the trading card industry’s revival. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples now sell for well over $10,000. Even well-centered lower grade copies retain significant value due to Griffey’s all-time popularity.

Chipper Jones Rookie Card (1991 Fleer): As one of the greatest third basemen ever, Jones put together a Hall of Fame career with the Atlanta Braves. His rookie card from 1991 Fleer is the most coveted from that set and an essential piece for any collection. High-grade versions regularly sell for $1,000-2,000. Even in rougher condition, this card remains a key rookie to own.

Derek Jeter Rookie Card (1991 Score): A true icon of the game, Jeter’s rookie is one of the most significant from the entire decade. His above-average production, clutch performances, and championship pedigree with the Yankees made him a global star. Jeter rookies have appreciated significantly in recent years, with PSA 10s reaching $25,000+. Even well-worn copies still carry value due to his enduring popularity.

Mariano Rivera Rookie Card (1991 Bowman): As arguably the greatest closer in MLB history, Rivera’s rookie is a highly-sought trophy card for Yankees fans and collectors. While not as widely produced as other top rookies, it remains an important find. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $10,000, with most graded copies still fetching thousands due to Rivera’s legendary career and status as a five-time World Series champion.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (1986 Topps): Bonds is one of the most prolific hitters ever yet remains a controversial figure. His rookie card from Topps’ 1986 set is the key to his early Pirates days and one of the most significant cards from the pre-90s era. High-grade versions regularly sell for $3,000-5,000 due to his record-setting career stats and cultural impact, for better or worse.

Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck RC Variations: Beyond the iconic 1989 base rookie card, Upper Deck also produced rare parallel and serially numbered variations of the Griffey RC that can be exponentially more valuable. The black-border 1/1 variation has sold for over $100,000. Even /499 Gold Refractors command mid-five-figure prices. These are among the holy grails for advanced 90s collectors.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (1990 Score): “The Big Hurt” was one of the most feared power hitters of the 90s. His rookie card from Score has steadily increased in value due to his dominant career and 500-homer milestone. High-grade PSA 10 copies now sell in the $1,000-2,000 range. It remains an important rookie card to find, especially for White Sox fans.

Randy Johnson Rookie Card (1988 Fleer): “The Big Unit” was a legendary left-handed flamethrower who struck out over 4,800 batters. His rookie card is the key from 1988 Fleer and one of the most significant pre-1990s issues. PSA 10s have reached $1,500 due to his Hall of Fame career split between Seattle, Houston, Arizona, and the Yankees.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (1986 Donruss): Maddux is considered one of the best pitchers ever with a four-time Cy Young Award-winning career. His rookie card comes from 1986 Donruss and holds value due to his consistent excellence and longevity in Atlanta and Chicago. High-grade PSA 10 copies sell around $1,000.

Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie Card (1981 Fleer): As one of baseball’s true iron men who broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record, Ripken’s rookie is a highly-regarded pre-90s issue. PSA 10s regularly sell for $2,000-3,000 due to his enduring popularity and status as a Baltimore/Orioles legend.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (1987 Topps): A 300-game winner and two-time Cy Young Award winner, Glavine had a stellar career primarily with the Atlanta Braves. His rookie card comes from 1987 Topps and remains an important Braves piece. PSA 10s sell for $800-1,200.

Jeff Bagwell Rookie Card (1991 Fleer): Bagwell was one of the game’s premier power hitters during the 90s as an Astros star. His rookie card from 1991 Fleer is among the most significant issues from that set. PSA 10s have sold for over $1,000.

Ivan Rodriguez Rookie Card (1991 Fleer Update): “Pudge” Rodriguez was arguably the best defensive catcher ever with 13 Gold Gloves. His rookie update card from 1991 Fleer holds value as one of his earliest widely available issues. PSA 10s have reached $800.

Pedro Martinez Rookie Card (1990 Bowman): Martinez was one of the most dominant and intimidating pitchers ever during his peak years with Montreal and Boston. His rookie card comes from 1990 Bowman and remains a key Expos/Red Sox piece. PSA 10s sell around $600-800.

Larry Walker Rookie Card (1989 Bowman): A five-time All-Star and 1997 NL MVP, Walker had a power/speed combination that made him a fan favorite in Montreal and Colorado. His rookie card is the prized issue from 1989 Bowman. PSA 10s sell for $500-800.

This covers some of the most important individual cards to seek out when assembling a collection focused on the 1990s. Beyond these rookies and stars, it’s also worth looking for serially numbered parallels, rare promotional issues, oddball releases on brands like Pinnacle and Score Traded, and stars of later years like Nomar Garciaparra, Derek Jeter, and Sammy Sosa. The 1990s produced some of the most iconic cards in the hobby’s history and remain a highly investible segment for savvy collectors. With patience and research, there are still finds to be made in the junk wax era and beyond.