The 1988 Topps Traded baseball card set featured some of the most valuable baseball cards ever produced. This set contained highly coveted rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and superstar players. While the regular 1988 Topps set has some valuable cards, the Traded set is where collectors can find true baseball card gems worth thousands, and in some cases tens of thousands, of dollars today. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1988 Topps Traded cards:
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered the crown jewel of 1988 Topps Traded, the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card in pristine gem mint condition can sell for over $100,000. Griffey was one of the most hyped rookie prospects ever and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His graceful style of play made him incredibly popular with fans of all ages. The rarity of this card in top condition also adds to its stratospheric price tag. Even well-centered copies in near mint to mint condition command $5,000-$10,000.
Roberto Alomar Rookie Card: Alomar was an instant star from the moment he made his debut in 1988. His smooth defensive skills at second base were a joy to watch. PSA 10 copies of his rookie in the 1988 Traded set have sold for over $15,000. In mint condition this card usually sells for $2,000-$5,000, making it one of the most sought after and valuable cards from the set outside of Griffey.
Tom Glavine Rookie Card: Glavine went on to amass over 300 career wins and 2 Cy Young Awards. As a rookie in 1988 he showed glimpses of brilliance. PSA 10 copies of his Traded rookie have topped $10,000 at auction. Most near mint to mint copies sell in the $1,000-$3,000 range. For a pitcher’s card from the late 80s, these prices exemplify Glavine’s Hall of Fame caliber career.
Greg Maddux Rookie Card: Like Glavine, Maddux had a long, dominating career that has him firmly placed in the discussion for best pitcher ever. His Traded rookie in PSA 10 condition has sold for around $8,000. Most mint 9 copies fall in the $500-$1,500 range. Maddux is universally loved by baseball fans both young and old for his pinpoint control and craftiness on the mound.
Ken Caminiti Rookie Card: Caminiti’s aggressive play and power made him a fan favorite for the Padres and Astros. He went on to win the 1996 NL MVP Award. His rookie in the 1988 Traded set cracks the $1,000 mark in gem mint condition. Caminiti sadly passed away at a young age in 2004, adding to the nostalgia and importance of his rookie card for collectors.
Roberto Kelly Rookie Card: Kelly broke in as an electrifying young speedster for the Red Sox in 1988. His acrobatic catches and daring baserunning made him must-see TV. PSA 10 copies have sold for around $4,000. Most mint copies trade hands between $300-$800. Sadly injuries hampered Kelly’s career potential but his flashy rookie card remains a fan favorite.
In addition to elite rookies, the 1988 Topps Traded set featured several high-grade veteran and star cards that have increased steadily in value over the decades. A PSA 10 Kirby Puckett sells for around $3,000. A mint Wade Boggs commands $800-$1,200. A pristine Ozzie Smith diamond king card can reach $2,000. Even a mint Roger Clemens nets $500+. With the pedigree of stars and future Hall of Famers it features, the 1988 Topps Traded set established itself as one of the all-time finest issues in the entire sports card collecting hobby. The cards of Griffey, Maddux, Glavine, Alomar, and others will surely continue their ascent for decades to come.
