Chicago Cubs Baseball Cards that Could be Worth Money

As one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball with a rich history that dates back to 1874, the Chicago Cubs have issued countless baseball cards over the decades. While most common Cubs cards from the modern era have little monetary value, there are certain rare and vintage Cubs cards that could hold significant value for collectors. In this article, we will explore some of the most valuable and sought-after Cubs cards that you’ll want to keep an eye out for.

T206 Honus Wagner (1909) – Arguably the most famous and valuable baseball card of all time, the T206 Honus Wagner is essentially the holy grail for collectors. Even in poor condition, examples can sell for over $1 million. What makes this card so rare is that Wagner demanded his likeness be removed from the series, resulting in only 50-200 known copies. Extremely unlikely any Cubs fan has this in their collection, but it sets the bar for the most valuable baseball card.

T205 Gold Border Frank Chance (1909) – As one of the earliest Cubs stars and managers who led the team to two World Series titles, Frank Chance is a significant figure in franchise history. His rare T205 card with a distinctive gold border surrounding the image could be worth $25,000+ for a high graded example. Only around 10 are known to exist in collectors’ hands today.

1933 Goudey #53 Billy Herman – Billy Herman was a key member of the Cubs in the 1930s and made the All-Star team multiple times. His scarce 1933 Goudey card is one of the most coveted and valuable pre-war issues, with high grade copies selling for upwards of $15,000. In worn condition, it’s still a four-figure card.

1951 Bowman #359 Hank Sauer – Hank Sauer was the NL MVP in 1952 after leading the league in home runs and RBI for the Cubs. His solo 1951 Bowman rookie card is exceedingly rare, with the highest sales reaching $12,000-15,000 depending on condition. Even low-grade copies in the $3,000 range.

1969 Topps #500 Fergie Jenkins – A Hall of Famer who won the Cy Young Award during his time with the Cubs, Fergie Jenkins’ rookie card from his breakout 1969 season is a must-have for any serious Cubs PC. High grades have sold for $7,000+, with most examples bringing $2,000-4,000.

1974 Topps Traded #T87 Ron Santo – Ron Santo made the All-Star team multiple times as the Cubs’ star third baseman and is still beloved by the fanbase today. His scarce 1974 traded card shows him in an Expos uniform after being dealt late in his career. Near-mint copies have reached $6,000 at auction.

1984 Donruss #34 Ryne Sandberg – Considered one of the greatest second basemen ever, Ryne Sandberg was a franchise cornerstone for the Cubs in the 1980s. His rookie card from Donruss is highly sought after, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $5,000. Most grade in the $1,000-2,000 range.

1989 Upper Deck #1 Gregg Maddux – Before becoming a legend with the Braves, Greg Maddux broke in with the Cubs and won the first of his four Cy Young Awards in 1992. His sparkling rookie card is highly valuable at $3,000+ for top condition. Even well-worn copies still fetch $500.

2002 Bowman’s Best Refractors #R4-4 Mark Prior – Mark Prior broke out as one of baseball’s most exciting young arms before injuries derailed his career. His refractor rookie from 2002 Bowman’s Best in pristine condition has reached $4,000 at auction. Most grade around $1,000-1,500 still.

2003 SP Authentic #75 Sammy Sosa – One of the most prolific power hitters in Cubs history who led the NL in home runs multiple times in the late 90s/early 00s. A Sosa autograph card from 2003 SP Authentic in high grade sold for $3,000. Autographs always add value.

While it’s unlikely any casual Cubs fan has a true blockbuster card in their collection, there could be some valuable gems from players like Banks, Williams, Jenkins, Sandberg, and more worth having appraised and graded. Taking the time to properly store and protect your cards is key to preserving their condition and potential value over the long run as well. With the Cubs’ century-plus history, there are plenty more valuable cards we didn’t cover too. Happy hunting!