Cal Ripken Jr. is considered one of the greatest shortstops and iron men in Major League Baseball history. With his incredible consecutive games played streak of 2,632 games, Ripken inspired millions of fans with his dedication and work ethic. It’s no surprise that Ripken’s baseball cards from his illustrious career with the Baltimore Orioles are some of the most sought after and valuable in the hobby.
Whether you’re looking to collect Ripken’s rookie cards from the early 1980s, key cards from his record-breaking streak in the 1990s, or cards from later in his career, eBay is the top marketplace to find Cal Ripken cards for sale. With millions of sports cards listed by collectors and dealers worldwide, eBay offers the largest selection of Ripken cards available.
Some of the most iconic and valuable Cal Ripken cards that frequently appear on eBay include his 1981 Topps, 1982 Donruss, and 1983 Topps Traded rookie cards. Ripken’s rookie season was in 1981, but he didn’t become an everyday player until 1983. As a result, his true rookie cards tend to be from 1982 and 1983. In high grade, these early Ripken rookies can sell for thousands of dollars on eBay depending on condition.
Another highly coveted Cal Ripken card is his 1991 Upper Deck #1 card, which was released right before he broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record of 2,130 games. This card holds special significance as it captured Ripken on the verge of one of baseball’s most hallowed records. Graded gem mint copies in PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ can sell for over $10,000.
The card from the night Ripken actually broke the record on September 6, 1995 is also incredibly valuable. His 1995 Fleer Update #GU1 card shows Ripken celebrating with his teammates after setting the new mark. High graded versions regularly eclipse $5,000 due to the immense history and significance behind the card.
Other notable Cal Ripken cards that often generate huge prices on eBay include flagship cards from his peak years in the 1990s like 1991 Topps Traded, 1992 Topps, 1993 Topps Gold, and 1994 Topps Gold. These were produced during the height of Ripken’s consecutive games streak and capture him as a superstar and fan favorite. Even well-centered, near mint copies can sell for $100-500.
In the late 1990s, Ripken cards started to become more scarce in packs as he neared the end of his career. Cards like his 1997 Topps Gold #T107, 1998 Topps #166, and 2000 Topps Traded #T201 are considered some of his scarcer post-streak issues. For high grade copies, expect to pay $50-150 per card depending on the exact issue.
One of the last true “hit” cards of Ripken’s career was his 2001 Topps #250 card, which was one of the final regular season cards produced before he retired after the 2001 season. This nostalgic card showing a smiling Ripken in an Orioles uniform is highly sought after by collectors looking to commemorate the end of his Hall of Fame tenure. Near mint copies can sell for $75-150.
While rookie cards and cards from Ripken’s most famous seasons in the 1980s-1990s tend to be the priciest, there are still plenty of affordable Ripken card options on eBay for fans and collectors of all budgets. Ripken had a 21-year career, so there are hundreds of cards across the different card companies and years.
Common base cards from the mid-late 1990s through his final season can often be found for $1-5 in well-centered, near mint condition. Even some of his scarcer late 1980s and early 1990s issues are attainable for $10-25 with patience. And for fans just starting a Ripken collection, lots with 10-20 random cards from across his career are frequently auctioned off for $10-30.
Whether you’re a seasoned Ripken card collector looking for key items to round out a high-end set or a casual fan simply wanting to commemorate one of the game’s all-time greats, eBay offers the largest and most diverse selection of Cal Ripken baseball cards to be found. With diligent searching and bidding, you’re sure to find Ripken cards to fit any budget on the leading online marketplace. The site’s vast user base of collectors ensures Ripken items in all conditions and price ranges are constantly being listed.
