The 1990s were a hugely popular time for collecting baseball cards. Several legendary players came onto the scene or had their careers take off during this decade, leading to some extremely valuable rookie and star cards being produced. While estimates vary due to market fluctuations, here are some of the most sought-after and valuable baseball cards from the 1990s based on long-term demand and recent hobby trends:

1992 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. #1 Rookie Card: Widely considered the most desirable baseball card of the entire decade, Griffey’s spectacular rookie campaign made him an instant fan favorite and his Bowman issue rookie card is the undisputed king of 1990s cards. High-grade PSA 10 examples have sold for over $350,000, with most bringing $10,000-$50,000 still today. Griffey’s talents, good looks, and success helped drive this card to true icon status.

1993 SP Derek Jeter #1 Rookie Card: Jeter quickly became the face of the Yankees dynasty and is still beloved today. His iconic rookie poses and success make this his most significant rookie issue. PSA 10s have brought $250,000+, with most graded copies in the $4,000-$15,000 range depending on condition. Jeter remains one of the most popular players ever and his rookie remains highly sought after.

1994 SP Ken Griffey Jr. #1 Update Gold Refractor RC: While not technically a true rookie since it was from an update set, Griffey’s gold refractor is considered one of his rarest and most aesthetically pleasing cards due to its flashy refractor technology and low print run. PSA 10s have sold for six figures and it’s arguable this is actually Griffey’s scarcest card overall. Condition sensitive but highly valuable for collectors.

1997 Bowman’s Best Refractor Chipper Jones #251 RC: Widely regarded as one of the greatest third basemen ever, Jones enjoyed an incredible career with the Braves. His flagship rookie refractor became extremely popular in the late 90s/2000s vintage boom. Graded PSA/BGS 10s now sell for $50,000+, with most still bringing mid-five figure prices in top condition. A true icon of the decade and Atlanta franchise.

1995 Pinnacle Mike Piazza #206 RC: As one of the best hitting catchers in history, Piazza was hugely popular throughout the 1990s. His Pinnacle RC stood out as his true first MLB card and became highly sought after by both Mets and Dodgers collectors. PSA/BGS 10s have cracked six figures and it remains one of the most expensive modern catcher cards ever printed. Condition is everything here but long term it’s held value extremely well.

1997 Bowman’s Best Mariano Rivera #149 RC: As the greatest closer of all-time, Rivera’s legendary career has only enhanced demand for this RC over the years. Its status as a high-end refractored rookie from the extremely popular Bowman’s Best set sent its popularity soaring in the 2000s. PSA/BGS 10 examples now sell for $50,000+, and even mid-grade copies still fetch four figures. An historically amazing performer and one of the decade’s true standouts.

1992 Bowman Chipper Jones #1 RC: As arguably the finest third baseman ever, Jones’ greatness was evident from this early Bowman RC showing his rookie season promise. Graded mint examples have cracked six figures, with most PSA/BGS 9-10s still bringing mid five-figure prices easily. Even low-grade copies retain significant value due to the player. One of the most desirable and valuable rookie cards issued in the entire 90s.

1996 leaf limited Mariano Rivera #70 RC: While not quite as abundant as the 1997 Bowman RC, Leaf Limited stood out as Rivera’s true first MLB card and first card issued showing him as a Yankee. PSA 10s have sold for $50,000 and the set’s limited print run makes it a premier, condition sensitive collectible for Rivera superfans today.

1998 SP Authentic Tony Gwynn #97: Gwynn was one of the most consistent and beloved hitters of his generation. This sharply designed rookie autograph became hugely sought after starting in the 2000s vintage boom and remains so due to its dual rookie/auto elements. PSA/BGS 10s now eclipse the $10,000 mark, with most graded copies still bringing significant four figure values. An iconic Gwynn item.

1992 Ultra Ken Griffey Jr. #1 RC: While less heralded than the Bowman rookie, Ultra stood out as Griffey’s true “first” card showing him as a major leaguer. PSA 10s have approached six figures and this higher-end issue remains a favorite of advanced Griffey collectors today. Scarce in top condition but highly valuable when found pristine.

1999 Topps Chrome Refractor Frank Thomas #91: “The Big Hurt” was one of the most dominant power hitters ever. This scarce refractored mini-career highlight remains sought after by both White Sox and refractored card fans. PSA 10s have reached $15,000, with most still bringing four figures in top condition due to the player and technological insert.

The 1990s spawned some true hobby icons and generated many rookie cards that would go on to become exceedingly valuable long term. While the above examples attract the highest dollar amounts, numerous other 1990s stars like Larry Walker, Sammy Sosa, Trevor Hoffman and Randy Johnson also have significant rookie and memorabilia cards that remain audience favorites. Overall it was an epic decade that jumpstarted modern collection values.