The 1972 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. While it lacks the true vintage aura of decades prior, the ’72 Topps set ushered in a new modern era for the baseball card industry. It also features several of the most expensive and coveted rookie cards ever released. While the sheer condition and state of preservation factor heavily into a card’s worth, here are some of the most valuable 1972 Topps baseball cards based purely on the player, accomplishment, and significance at the time of release:

Ryan/Koufax Dual Mini (#91): This odd-man-out mini card features Nolan Ryan and Sandy Koufax. Though not truly a “rookie,” its scarcity and subject matter make it one of the most desireable 1972 cards. High grade PSA 10 examples have sold for over $20,000 in recent years.

Mike Schmidt (#582): Arguably the finest third baseman of all-time, Schmidt’s true rookie card started his Hall of Fame journey. High-end PSA 10 copies now sell in the $10,000 range or more due to his legendary career arc.

George Brett (#640): Another third sacker who would become a “Hit King,” Brett was just starting his stellar tenure with the Royals in ’72. High-grade versions fetch up to $8,000.

Catfish Hunter (#288): “Catfish” was already an established ace but had yet to join the Yankees dynasty. Mint PSA 10s command $2,000+.

Nolan Ryan (#526): Ryan’s Astros rookie card is a true Holy Grail. An immaculate PSA 10 specimen recently sold for an astounding $127,000, though most grade a notch or two lower and sell in the $1,500-$4,000 range depending on condition.

Dave Kingman (#433): “King Kong’s” early Mets tenure started here. PSA 10s sell for $700-1,500.

Jim Palmer (#557): The Hall of Fame Orioles hurler makes his cardboard bow. High grades bring $500-800 still.

Bruce Sutter (#677): Some feel the Cardinals rookie is undervalued. Nearly flawless Gem Mint copies approach $1,000.

Rickey Henderson (#547): “Man of Steal’s” Athletics debut. Pristine grades demand $600-1,000.

Johnny Bench (#540): Already an NL MVP and multiple time All-Star, Bench’s value remains robust at $400-600.

Steve Garvey (#544): Garvey became the quintessential SoCal superstar. PSA 10s earn $300-500.

That covers some of the most valuable stars and rookie cards from the 1972 Topps MLB set, which regularly sees strong prices at auction due to the high-caliber talent featured. Of course, condition is king—while the above cards command huge sums in pristine PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, well-worn low-grade copies are available much more reasonably. Top hitters like Schmidt and Brett consistently perform well, as do elite hurlers like Ryan, Palmer, and Sutter. But even role players and backups from this acclaimed issue can carry nostalgia and value too. The ‘72 Topps set launch a new collecting renaissance and its top rookies remain hugely important pieces for vintage enthusiasts and Hall of Fame completists.