The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most sought-after issues in the hobby for both casual collectors and serious investors. The sheer depth of stars featured and historic rookie cards included make 1987 a destination year for finding expensive gems. While condition is crucial in determining value, certain cards from the ’87 Topps set command premium prices even in lower grades due to their significance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable offerings from that memorable release.
Heading the chase is the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely regarded as the finest player to ever grace a baseball card, the Kid’s debut is the undisputed king of the ’87s. In pristine Mint condition, it can earn upwards of $10,000. Even well-worn copies still pull in several hundred dollars due to immense name recognition and nostalgia. Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and effortless athleticism made him an immediate fan favorite, and his rookie perpetually reminds collectors of those early days. For many, it’s simply a high point in the hobby.
Another towering rookie from the set is the card of “Big Hurt” Frank Thomas. Like Griffey, Thomas established himself as a hit machine and perennial All-Star right out of the gate. In Gem Mint 10 condition, his distinctive debut regularly charts for $1,000-2,000. It remains highly coveted due to Thomas’ inclusion on prestigious “300 home run/400 double” lists. Even well-played copies in the 6-8 grade range will move for $100-300. The combination of his mammoth physical tools and gaudy stats made this one a can’t-miss card from the get-go.
Continuing the theme of rookies to remember is the card of “Nails” Edgar Martinez. While often overlooked in the larger conversation, Martinez carved out a Hall of Fame resume as arguably the finest designated hitter in MLB annals. His ’87 Topps introduction surprisingly still fetches $300-500 in pristine condition due to his rock-solid performance over 18 seasons, all with the Seattle Mariners. Even worn copies pull in $50-150 based simply on the player’s reputation and significance to the franchise.
Several established superstars also commanded substantial ’87 Topps prices according to their accomplishments. Ryne Sandberg’s card, for example, has maintained steady $200-400 value through the decades as he solidified his Cooperstown plaque. Fellow inner circle inductee Mike Schmidt drew similar $200-300 rates for his ’87 issue. Even later in their careers, these icons still moved merchandise due to lifetime stats and legendary statuses.
In the pitching department, Nolan Ryan ruled the ’87 valuation spectrum as expected. Despite being 40 years old at the time, his signatureTopps portrait remains a must-have for many due to his utterly incomparable career record. Mint specimens come attached to $200-400 price tags with some regularity. Fellow hurlers Roger Clemens and Orel Hershiser also netted $100-300 rates respectively for their ’87s after Cy Young caliber peaks.
Remaining storylines like an affordable Robin Yount gem at $50-150 or buzzworthy rookie pop from José Canseco at $75-200 keep the 1987 Topps set perpetually relevant. Factor in chase cards of other elite talents like George Brett, Wade Boggs, or Kirby Puckett, and it’s easy to get lost digging through the year for hidden treasures. While Flagship brands from the late 80s aren’t quite the behemoths they once were price-wise, ’87 Topps endures due to an unmatched confluence of all-time great players both established and still emerging. For collectors hoping to invest in memorable cardboard, it’s a reliable collectible destination even now.
The 1987 Topps baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts and longboxes of many longtime hobbyists. Loaded with certified Hall of Famers, iconic rookies, and statistical standouts across both leagues, it offers something for everyone. Condition is absolutely crucial, but certain issues from that release like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas will always demand premium due to rarity and nostalgia factors. Deeper diving can uncover many other $100+ sleepers as well. With a who’s who of baseball embedded within its thick white borders, 1987 Topps is a snapshot in time well worth preserving for aficionados of America’s pastime.
