The 1990 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it didn’t have the same star power as some previous years, there are still several highly sought after rookie cards and legends of the game that can fetch big money in the current market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1990 Donruss cards collectors search for.
Frank Thomas Rookie Card (Card #1)
Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1990 Donruss set, the Frank Thomas rookie card is arguably the most valuable individual card from the entire issue. “The Big Hurt” went on to have a Hall of Fame career and was the centerpiece of the powerful Chicago White Sox teams in the 1990s. In pristine mint condition, his rookie card regularly sells for well over $1,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can bring $500 or more. The card features fantastic action photography of Thomas at the plate. With his towering stature and prodigious power, he was instantly one of the most exciting young players in baseball. This card captured lightning in a bottle by featuring such an impactful rookie.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Card #91)
While it doesn’t command the same price tag as Thomas’ rookie, the Ken Griffey Jr. card from 1990 Donruss is still highly sought after by collectors. Often considered the best all-around player of his generation, Griffey was a surefire star from the moment he broke into the big leagues. This card showcases his effortless athleticism in the outfield. Near mint copies can sell for $300-500, with the very best specimens approaching $1,000 or more. The card is iconic for capturing Griffey at the beginning of his Hall of Fame career and remains a must-have for any vintage baseball collection.
Nolan Ryan (Card #233)
As one of the most intimidating and dominant pitchers in MLB history, anything related to Nolan Ryan’s playing career holds value. His 1990 Donruss card, which depicts him pitching for the Texas Rangers, is no exception. Even at an advanced age, Ryan was still striking out batters at a record pace. Mint condition copies can sell for well over $100. The card pays homage to one of the game’s all-time greats and is a favorite of collectors looking to add a legend to their set.
Cal Ripken Jr. (Card #251)
As arguably the most durable and dependable player in baseball history, Cal Ripken Jr.’s cards from the late 80s/early 90s are very popular with collectors. This issue captures Ripken in action for the Baltimore Orioles. In top-notch mint condition it can sell for $75-100. Even well-centered near mint copies are valued around $50. The card is a must-have for any Orioles or Ripken collection. It commemorates a player who redefined what it meant to be available for his team game in and game out.
Kirby Puckett (Card #264)
One of the most beloved Twins of all-time, Kirby Puckett’s 1990 Donruss card is a popular pick for collectors. Puckett was a six-time All-Star, six-time Gold Glove winner, and led Minnesota to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991. This issue portrays him patrolling centerfield in classic Twins duds. Mint condition examples have sold for $75-100, with near mint copies around $50-75 depending on centering quality. The card pays tribute to one of the franchise’s greatest ambassadors who was adored by Minnesota fans.
Roberto Alomar (Card #285)
As a twelve-time All-Star and ten-time Gold Glove winner at second base, Roberto Alomar established himself as one of the premier players of the 1990s. This rookie card from his time with the San Diego Padres highlights his incredible range and athleticism in the field. Pristine mint copies can reach $75-100, with most well-centered near mints settling in the $50 range. The card captured Alomar at the beginning of what would become a Hall of Fame career and first baseman for collectors looking to add impactful young talent from the set.
Ozzie Smith (Card #300)
One of the most acclaimed defensive wizards in MLB history, anything related to Ozzie Smith’s playing days holds value. This issue from his time with the St. Louis Cardinals depicts him making an acrobatic play at shortstop, highlighting why he won a record 13 Gold Gloves. Mint condition examples can sell for $50-75. Even well-centered near mints command $30-40 due to Smith’s all-time great status and popularity with Cardinals fans. The card pays homage to a player who redefined what was possible at his position.
Rickey Henderson (Card #336)
As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner in MLB history, Rickey Henderson’s cards are highly desirable. This issue from his Oakland A’s days portrays his elite speed and baseball instincts. Pristine mint copies can reach $75, with most well-centered near mints settling in the $50 range. The card features one of the most exciting players to ever play and was issued during Henderson’s prime years in Oakland. It’s a must-have for any collector looking to commemorate his unparalleled talents.
Nolan Ryan Pitching Error Variation
For error card collectors, one of the biggest keys from the 1990 Donruss set is the extremely rare Nolan Ryan pitching error variation. Due to a printing mistake, the image on this card shows Ryan delivering a pitch from the stretch instead of the windup like the standard issue. Only a handful are known to exist, making it one of the most valuable Donruss cards ever produced. In the past, pristine specimens have sold for well over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies command four figures. For Ryan super-fans or advanced collectors, tracking down this one-of-a-kind variation is a true prize.
While it may lack the true rookie card stars of other Donruss sets, the 1990 issue still features several all-time greats and young talents that have stood the test of time. Keys like the Frank Thomas and Ken Griffey Jr. rookies as well as legends like Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr. and Ozzie Smith make it a very collectible vintage set. With the continued growth of the baseball card market, prices for high-grade examples are likely to keep appreciating for serious investors.
