One of the most highly sought after and valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey Jr. would go on to have an iconic career in MLB as one of the best all-around players and arguably the most exciting player of his generation. His smooth left-handed swing and graceful all-around athleticism made him a fan favorite. Even as a rookie in 1987, it was evident he had superstar potential. In near mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s 1987 Topps rookie card can fetch thousands of dollars, with gem mint examples sometimes bringing in over $10,000. Given his career achievements and legacy as one of the greats, interest and demand for this card remain very strong despite the decades since it was issued.
Another hugely valuable card from the 1987 Topps set is the Mark McGwire rookie card. Like Griffey Jr., McGwire would prove to be one of the game’s most prolific home run hitters and his prowess for hitting mammoth home runs endeared him to many fans. He broke the single season home run record in 1998, a record that stood for over a decade until it was broken again by Griffey Jr.’s teammate Barry Bonds. The nostalgia and history attached to McGwire’s rookie card, coupled with his playing accomplishments, make it a true gem in any collection. High quality examples in NM-MT condition often sell for $4,000 or more online.
Aside from star rookie cards, there are also key cards featuring established players that retain impressive value from the ’87 Topps set. Perhaps most notable is the Nolan Ryan card (#120). At the time, Ryan was already established as one of the elite strikeout pitchers in baseball history and held numerous career pitching records. But his mystique and the awe surrounding his 100+ MPH fastball made any Ryan card a highly sought after piece, and his ’87 Topps card remains a standout to this day. Especially in pristine mint condition, it can sell for over $500. Another pitcher who appears on a valuable ’87 Topps card is Roger Clemens on card #91. By 1987, “Rocket” Roger was well on his way to a spectacular career and his intimidating stare down on this issue captures his fierce competitive fire. high grade Clemens rookies have been known to sell in the $400 range.
Aside from future Hall of Fame sluggers and hurlers, there are also key star cards in the 1987 set that maintain lofty values. One is the Ryne Sandberg card on #164. At the time, “Ryno” was a perennial All-Star and arguably the best second baseman in baseball. He collected over 200 hits in four straight seasons from 1983-1986 showcasing why he was so dependable and feared at the plate. His smooth, line-drive stroke is captured on his ’87 issue. In top condition it often sells between $150-200. Another steady offensive force highlighted in the set is Tim Raines on card #73. “Rock” was among the game’s premier leadoff hitters and base stealers throughout the 1980s. He could do it all on the basepaths and as a batter. In pristine condition, his ’87 Topps card fetches over $100.
Aside from stars, there are also key rookie cards of solid major leaguers that hold value in the ’87 Topps issue. Players such as Randy Johnson on card #350, Tom Glavine on #592, and David Justice on #443 occasionally sell in the $50-75 range when in gem mint condition, as they went on to have productive MLB careers. Even more obscure major leaguers who had short careers but with intriguing rookie cards can catch the eye of collectors if in top shape, such as relief pitcher Bobby Thigpen on card #479. His iconic windup pose generates interest.
The 1987 Topps baseball card set remains a highly collectible vintage issue prized by investors and nostalgic baseball fans alike. Headlined by the spectacular rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Griffey Jr. and McGwire, it features photography and designs that captured the players and era beautifully. Even after 35+ years, the finest quality examples of star players from that set continually hold strong demand and financial value for knowledgeable collectors. With its place in baseball card history, allure of stars from that time, and overall sharp cards, the 1987 Topps set earns a spot among the most coveted issues in the hobby.
