1984 DONRUSS BIG BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1984 Donruss Big set was one of the major releases for baseball cards during the 1984 season. Following up on their popular “Big” sets from 1982 and 1983, Donruss once again produced oversized cards for the 1984 season that featured more photographic coverage than standard size cards of the time. These Big cards were quite popular with collectors due to their larger size and the enhanced photography they offered to display players.

Some key aspects of the 1984 Donruss Big set:

The set featured 330 total cards and included all Major League players from 1983 as well as any notable rookie cards. The design was similar to previous Donruss Big sets with a blue border and pink/blue team logo at the top.

Photography on the cards was generous, with most displaying close-up headshots of players or full body shots. This allowed collectors a more detailed look at players compared to thinner cards of the era. The photos were also generally of good quality print.

Rated among the top rookie cards in the 1984 Donruss Big set were Bruce Sutter, Ryne Sandberg, Rick Sutcliffe, Willie McGee and Don Mattingly. All of these players went on to have successful MLB careers and their rookie cards remain popular with collectors today.

Other notable inclusions were the final cards issued of retiring legends like Brooks Robinson, Ron Guidry and Phil Niekro. These are now regarded as iconic retirements by fans who followed their careers.

The design included statistics such as batting and pitching averages from the previous season on the back of each card. Additional career stats and a short blurb was also included about many veterans.

At the time of release, the larger cards retailed for $0.49-$0.69 each compared to around $0.10 for standard cards. The price point was higher but still affordable for kids and adults to purchase packs and complete the full set.

In the decades since its release, the 1984 Donruss Big set has become an icon representing the era when oversized cards started to lose popularity to smaller, stockier designs. Its integration of sharp photography in an easy-to-collect 330 card checklist has kept it a favorite among vintage collectors to this day. Even modern repack products still pay tribute to the classic Donruss Big designs of the early 1980s.

The debut rookie cards of Sandberg, Sutter, Sutcliffe and McGee in particular are mainstays in team and player collecting guides. While production numbers were high for 1984 Donruss cards overall, the larger sizes meant fewer Mint and Gem Mint quality specimens survive today. This scarcity has boosted valuing of high-grade rookies and stars from the set considerably over recent vintage card price guides.

In the recent entertainment of “card flipping” or seeking investment potential in sports collectibles, 1984 Donruss Big cards featuring the all-time great rookies in top condition can sell for thousands of dollars through major auction sites. For the average collector, even well-kept common players still hold nostalgic value from the early years they started their hobby.

Some other unique qualities that set the 1984 Donruss Big release apart include:

The use of posed action shots and candids captured players both on and off the field in ways seldom seen before or since on cardboard. Having room for larger photographs was the main draw of the oversized format.

Outside of the highest rookie stars, even commons retain a charm because of the photography and fun team designs on the borders. This differs from modern sets where base cards focus more on stats than imagery.

Traded updates and rookie call-ups were issued through the Donruss Traded set later in 1984. This provided the full season stats and team moves for players, important for collectors chasing complete rosters.

The large cards are easier for young hobbyists to handle compared to thin modern stock. For pre-teens in the 1980s, the Donruss Big cards were the perfect entry point into their baseball memorabilia collections.

So while there were many quality baseball card releases throughout the decade of the ’80s, the pioneering 1984 Donruss Big set stands out for raising the bar in terms of photographic content within the limitations of cardboard. Modern digitally enhanced cards can’t replicate the authentic retro feel of these classic oversized players from a pivotal year when the hobby started gaining mass popularity. Even today, their larger-than-life presence remains a fun link to baseball’s rich past.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS IN 1987

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The year 1987 saw tremendous growth in the popularity of collecting sports cards. Specifically, baseball cards from the 1987 set featured some of the most desirable rookie cards and legends of the game that have stood the test of time. Whileinflation and unlimited printing have lessened the monetary valueof modern cards compared to vintage, cards from 1987 remain highly coveted by collectors both for their historical significance and potential financial worth.

One of the most well-known and valuable 1987 rookie cards is that of Toronto Blue Jays player Gregg Jefferies. As one of the top prospects in baseball at the time, Jefferies was highly anticipated and his card was in high demand. While injuries hindered his career potential, his rookie card remained iconic. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies have sold for over $6,000 due to his flashy skills and status as atruly “rookie” card in the traditional sense.

Another 1987 rookie standout is Tom Glavine’s card. As a pitcher who would go on to have a Hall of Fame career winning 305 games and 2 Cy Young awards, Glavine’s humble beginnings are captured in his Donruss rookie. Examples in top PSA 10 condition have sold for north of $4,000. Much like Greg Maddux’s iconic 1986 card, Glavine’s serves as an affordable alternative to showcase a legend’s early days compared to chasing rarer vintage pieces.

hallmark 1987 rookie is none other than the “Cornelius,” cardsdepicting Gregg Jefferies of the Blue Jays in flashy fashion. As one of the top prospects in baseball at the time, Jefferies was highly anticipated and his card was in high demand

From a legend standpoint, perhaps the most valuable 1987 card is the Nolan Ryan Express Futures insert from Score. Predicting his dominance as a 50-year-old hurler, this insert foresaw greatness and is one of the scarce “hitting the nail on the head” cards in history in terms of foretelling Ryan’s extended longevity. Graded PSA 10 versions have reached upwards of $9,000 in recent years. Another superstar who defined the 1987 Topps set was Ozzie Smith. Considered by many to be the greatest defensive shortstop ever, his iconic backflip pose remains widely recognizable today. In top Gem Mint condition, examples can exceed $2,000.

Stayingwith Score,the1988Donrusssetalsoproducedseveralthought-afterkeycards.RookieslikeTomGlavine,GregMaddux,andMarkGracewouldallbecomeHall of Famers.Glavine’s more affordable rookie has reachedover $4,000 in PSA 10, capturing his humble beginnings compared tohis bigger name peers’ cardswhichcommandegregiouspricesduetotheirrarerdesignsfromother brands. Also highly regarded were star performers like Cards slugger Jack Clark, whose trophy insert parallel reached $3,000 graded a pristine 10.

The “flagship” 1987 Topps set also featured its fair share of Investment-worthy pieces. Perhaps most famously photographed was Ozzie Smith’s backflip pose, depicting the wizard defensively for which he became renowned. In top PSA 10 condition, his iconic image can eclipse $2,000 due to his legendary status. Another Cardinal in the set receiving high grades is future Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith. Few were as gifted in the field as the Wizard and his classic backflip card remains a highly recognizable symbol of defense to this day.

Twoothernotable 1987Toppsrookiecards that have appreciatedwellincludethoseofBryceHarperandKenGriffeyJr.Harper’scardreachedover$1,000inPSA10directlyfollowinghis2019MVPseasondespitebeingprintedabundely as the NLF’s #1 draft pick in 2010. Meanwhile examples of the Kid’s extremely scarce grey bordered variation have climbed above the $10,000 milestone. Although printed years after 1987, demand for their first “rookie” cards remain strong.

In summing up, the 1987 sports card season laid early foundations for investment returns years later. Rookie cards like Jefferies, Glavine and Griffey introduced legends to collectors before stardom. Insert parallels predicting Ryan’s longevity gained new relevance. And signature images like Smith’s backflip sealed iconic status. While inflation means vintage will never regain original penny prices, top conditioned high-grade examples from ’87 maintain relevance as affordable alternatives to showcase all-time great players early in their careers. The combination of on-field performance and innovation in design and parallels gave the 1987 season products roots as classics in hobby history.

1950S UNOPENED BASEBALL CARDS

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Unopened 1950s baseball cards are highly coveted by collectors today due to the era representing the absolute apex of the golden age of baseball card production and popularity. The 1950s decade saw unprecedented focus on baseball cards by both collectors and manufacturers that has never been matched since.

In the post-World War 2 era of the late 1940s and 1950s, America’s pastime of baseball truly epitomized national pride and patriotism as the country emerged victorious from the war. Major League Baseball teams drew record crowds to their ballparks and interest in the sport was seemingly everywhere. Alongside this fervor, the production and collecting of baseball cards skyrocketed. Topps Chewing Gum Company had gained the exclusive rights to produce baseball cards in 1952 and capitalized fully on the growing hobby. Their cards came packaged with Topps gum which added to the appeal for children and adults alike.

Over the course of the 1950s, Topps annual baseball card sets grew larger in size year over year. From 1951’s 1952 cards to 311 cards in 1959, collectors had nearly endless opportunities to amass complete sets. This rapid production helped feeding the growing frenzy around collecting. More and more stores began stocking packs of Topps cards as the decade progressed, maximizing distribution. With unopened packs readily available virtually anywhere, it was easy for anyone with a few pennies to start or add to their collection. The increasing scarcity of these early 1950s cards today is a testament to how many packs were indeed opened versus kept sealed over time.

One of the biggest draws of 1950s baseball cards is the unmatched quality and aesthetic appeal of the photography and designs utilized compared to modern producing standards. With limited COLOR photography capabilities, Topps mastered intricately designed vertical layouts in mostly black and white featuring headshots of players on one side and stats/biographies on the reverse. Closeup portraits were often used to fit more images per card and reduce waste. They depict an aura of quality and nostalgic charm today’s mass produced digital cards cannot replicate. The cards were also very durable, with a thick, glossy paper stock engineered to withstand countless thumbings through without damage as years passed.

Perhaps most significant about 1950s production years was that legendary players were captured in their prime playing days. Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and more future Hall of Famers’ earliest baseball cards appear from this era in the fleeting window they were produced before players spiraled off into obscurity. Getting a star rookie card in perfect condition from over 65 years ago is simply breathtaking for collectors. Factors like limited surviving populations make particularly rare years like 1952, 1955 and 1957 exponentially more valuable when found sealed in original wax packs.

While fans delighted in opening packs and assembling sets in the 1950s, the cards that remained sealed were effectively time capsules that have grown more significant with each passing year. Today, even battered examples from common early 1950s seasons can sell for thousands. But a true Gem Mint unsearched wax pack still shrink wrapped takes the hobby to a whole new level, with individual packs easily bringing six figure sums or more from the most enthusiastic vintage collectors. With original gum, wrappers and cards all preserved precisely as first purchased generations ago, they represent the ultimate prize for those seeking a step back in time to experience that 1950s baseball card magic anew.

As interest in vintage sports memorabilia steadily balloons, especially 1950s cards, it is unlikely any significant stashes of sealed 1950s packs will surface to further drive prices down. With each year, as memory of the golden era and its legendary players fades further, the allure of time warp packs seems to grow. Many avid collectors will likely never get the opportunity to hold an authentic unopened 1950s Topps pack in their hands. But for those few who do, it will surely be one of the most compelling and significant vintage sports collectibles they could attain. The 1950s truly marked the pinnacle of baseball cards as a mainstream family hobby. Unopened packs remain a portal into experiencing that bygone peak afresh.

FIND OUT HOW MUCH MY BASEBALL CARDS ARE WORTH

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Determining the value of your baseball card collection can seem like a daunting task, but with the right research methods and resources, you can get a good idea of what your cards may be worth on the current market. The value of any given card depends on several factors, including the player, the year it was printed, its physical condition and rarity. Let’s take a deeper look at how to properly assess the value of your baseball cards.

One of the most important things to consider is the condition or grade of each individual card. The condition can greatly impact the value, sometimes making a card worth 10 times more if it is in near mint or mint condition versus heavily played. When looking at your cards, consider factors like centering (how perfectly centered the image is within the borders), corners (are they sharp or rounded?), edges (are they frayed or damaged?) and surface (is it clean and scratch-free?).

Top grading companies like PSA, BGS and SGC use a numeric scale, with 10 being flawless “gem mint” and the lowest grades being around 1 or 2. Anything graded 6 or above is considered collectible, while true gems would be 8 and above. Take the time to carefully examine each card front and back under good lighting to assess its condition. You may consider having valuable cards professionally graded, as slabbed and graded cards often command the highest prices.

Another major factor is the player featured on the card. Superstar hall of famers from past eras as well as modern day superstars tend to have the most valuable cards, especially in top condition. Even lesser known players can have valuable rookie cards. It’s also important to consider the era the card comes from, as older vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s are usually worth the most. Check sold prices of cards featuring the same player and from the same set/year to get a sense of value.

Rarity also plays a big role – the scarcer a card is, whether due to a small print run or other factors, the more desirable and valuable it tends to be. This includes errors, variations, serial numbers, autographed or memorabilia cards. It’s important to carefully inspect each card to check for anything that may make it more rare or unique compared to the standard issue version. Documenting serial numbers, variations or errors is key when researching value.

Once you’ve examined your cards and have a good sense of players, conditions and any special factors, it’s time to do some market research. The two best ways are to check online auction/sales sites like eBay, as well as online price guide databases. On eBay, search for recently sold listings of cards matching your player and parameters like year, set, and condition to see what they actually sold for, not just what they were listed for.

Price guides like PSA’s SMR (Sports Market Report) provide average values for cards in different grades. Be aware that price guides are general indicators – actual market prices can be higher or lower depending on supply and demand factors. When using price guides, try to match your card as closely as possible regarding grade/condition. Also factor in that mint condition gems tend to sell at the very top of value ranges.

Another way to get a professional assessment is to have your most valuable cards appraised. Reputable grading companies like PSA and BGS offer an authentication and grading service where they will examine and encapsulate your card in a hard plastic slab with the assigned grade. While there is a cost involved, this provides a definitive condition assessment from the experts. Slabs also make reselling easier down the line.

Once you’ve done your research, you should have a good ballpark figure of what your collection as a whole may be worth on the current market. Of course, the ultimate value is what a willing buyer will pay. Other factors like the overall condition of your entire collection could impact the per card prices. Consider taking your valuable vintage cards to a local card shop or show to get professional offers. And always keep your cards safely stored in protective holders, boxes or albums to maintain their condition over time.

With patience and diligent research, you can feel confident about the value of your baseball card collection. Be sure not to get caught up in unrealistic online asking prices – follow recently sold prices to get a true sense of market value. And most of all, have fun reliving memories from your or a family member’s collection over the years. The hobby is about much more than money.

BASEBALL CARDS PANINI PRIZM

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Panini Prizm baseball cards have become one of the most popular and valuable modern card sets since their debut in 2018. The Prizm brand originated with Panini America as a way to create a modern alternative to Topps’ dominant baseball card monopoly. By incorporating flashy holographic designs and premium materials into their baseball cards, Panini was able to carve out space in the lucrative trading card market and attract collectors with their innovative Prizm concept.

In the late 2010s, Topps still maintained exclusive rights to produce the official Major League Baseball branded trading cards. However, Panini saw an opening to introduce a flashy new style of cards featuring current MLB players through licensing deals with individual athletes and teams. Their goal was to tap into collectors’ desire for modern parallels, refractors, and other insert cards that went beyond the traditional cardboard offerings from Topps.

Panini’s Prizm brand launched in 2018 with releases featuring the NFL, NBA, and soccer. But it was the inaugural 2018 Prizm baseball set that really put Panini on the map as a serious competitor to Topps. The designs incorporated holographic textures and color-shifting foil elements that made the cards pop like never before. Prizm also utilized higher-end card substrates like chromium to give the visuals an ultra-premium feel. Numbered parallels like Gold Prizm and Black Prizm added desirable chase cards for collectors.

Veteran players like Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, and Bryce Harper graced the base Prizm rookie cards of up-and-comers like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The designs incorporated a clean simplicity while still feeling modern—a nice balance that appealed to both new and old-school collectors. With impeccable quality control and sharp centering, the 2018 Prizm baseball cards were an instant hit and marked Panini’s arrival as a force in the trading card industry.

In the years since, Panini Prizm baseball has remained the hottest modern card product on the secondary market. Rookie cards of emerging stars continue to gain value as their careers progress. For example, the Juan Soto 2018 Prizm Base RC has increased over 1000% in secondary market value as he’s developed into a superstar. The Acuña Jr. and Guerrero Jr. RCs from that same set have followed similar appreciation trajectories as those players breakout.

Panini has also expanded the Prizm brand beyond the base set in subsequent years. Insert sets like Prizm Black, Flux, and Red White & Blue have become stand-alone hits. Parallel and autograph cards in these inserts command big money from collectors. The 2019 Prizm Baseball set took the design and quality to an even higher level, cementing Panini’s brand on par with the vintage greats from Topps.

In addition to the flagship Prizm releases, Panini has also leveraged the brand recognition to launch specialized products. Sets focused on rookies, prospects, and star players like Prizm Draft Picks, Rookie Anthology, and Prizm MVP have further expanded the brand’s reach. Special “Classics” editions featuring retired stars in Prizm style have also been a big hit with collectors.

Panini’s aggressive social media presence and influencer marketing campaigns have helped expand the collector base for Prizm beyond the hardcore graphing crowd. Younger fans entering the hobby are drawn to the flashy designs and investable nature of modern Prizm cards versus the static cardboard of decades past. Savvy breakers and YouTube breakers showcase big Prizm hits, fueling even more collector interest in chasing the next big card.

As a result of the growing collector demand, Prizm baseball cards now dominate the high-end auction markets. Individual cards routinely break records, with rare 1/1 parallels fetching five and even six-figure prices. Full base sets also carry premium values that far exceed their original issue prices. It’s not uncommon to see unopened Prizm jumbo hobby boxes list for thousands on the secondary market within months of release.

While Topps still maintains its MLB licensing for traditional sticker cards, Panini has firmly established Prizm as the preeminent modern baseball card product. With no signs of slowing collector appetite, the future remains incredibly bright for the brand. As today’s young stars like Juan Soto and Ronald Acuña Jr. cement their legends, their iconic rookie cards in Prizm style will undoubtedly achieve true collectible gem status matching the all-time greats of the hobby. For better or worse, Panini Prizm has redefined the baseball card collecting landscape and shows no signs of relinquishing its throne anytime soon.

BASEBALL CARD SLEEVES FOR THICK CARDS

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Baseball cards are a beloved part of the hobby for many. With the evolution of cards over the years, newer productions feature thicker stock and embellishments that make protecting these prized possessions all the more important. Card sleeves are a simple but effective way to safeguard collectibles from the risks of casual handling like fingerprints, scratches, or accidental damage. For cards pushing the boundaries of thickness, standard penny sleeves may no longer suffice. Looking for the best sleeves designed specifically for thick baseball cards? Here are some top options to consider:

Ultra Pro Thick Card Sleeves – Arguably the most popular thick card sleeve brand, Ultra Pro delivers heavy-duty protection. Their thick card sleeves measure 4 mil thick with tight sealing to form a protective border around all four sides of the card. The transparency allows for full card art and stats visibility. A squared-edge cut makes them ideal for showcasing thicker modern cards up to 0.6mm sans risk of imprinted lines. Reviews praise how well they lay flat in binders, boxes, and albums post-insertion. At 120 sleeves per pack, they provide great value.

Top Loaders – For the truly thick cards exceeding standard sleeve capacity, top loaders present a hard plastic shield encasing the card front and back. Mini-loaders measure 3×4 inches while standard loaders reach regulation baseball card size at 2.5×3.5 inches. Made of rigid polypropylene plastic (.005 mil), they swivel shut for an airtight seal without risk of slippage. Top loaders showcase cards beautifully for displays yet still allow for safe portability in card books or boxes. The snap closure is secure for most valuable cards.

Card Guardian Sleeves – A top contender especially for the thickest cards near 1mm, Card Guardian extra thick sleeves measure a robust 6 mil thick. Their generously sized interior fits most oversized, metallic, or embossed modern releases with ample room to spare. The glossy surface plays nicely with foil and texture details. The re-sealable adhesive strip closure adheres tightly along all four sides to form an impressively durable shield. Their portability plus visibility make Card Guardians a great choice for maintaining mint condition during storage or travel with a collection.

BCW Magnetic Card Sleeves – Adding an innovative twist, BCW’s thick card sleeves contain tiny magnetic strips along the closure to snap shut securely and silently. Measuring 4.5 mil thick, they provide sturdy protection comparable to Ultra Pro’s standard thick sleeves. The flexible plastic bends compliantly around thick edges without curling or creasing the card surfaces. reviewers praise how smoothly and strongly the magnetic closure adheres compared to standard adhesive sealing tapes prone to separating over time. Resistant to fingerprints as well, BCW Magnetic sleeves deliver reliable, convenient protection for even the chunkiest cardboard.

Dragon Shield Clear Card Sleeves – A go-to brand for trading card gaming supplies, Dragon Shield recently expanded into clear thick card sleeves perfect for modern baseball cardboard. Their new extra thick clear sleeves measure an impressive 5 mil to cradle cards of all shapes and sizes securely. The glossy surface enhances foil details while still allowing for full visibility of colors, stats, and photography beneath. Featuring tightly squared edges and an ultra-smooth matte interior surface, Dragon Shield sleeves shield cards cleanly without edges curling inwards or excess crimping along the sides and bottom edge. Reviews note how well they lay smoothly whether faced vertically for display or horizontally in binders.

For the truly dedicated collector maintaining a stash of prized, valuable cards in pristine condition, sleeves tailored to today’s thick card stock present a must. Beyond simple protection, the right sleeves showcase cards beautifully whether on a desk display, in binder books, or tucked safely away in long term storage. By choosing a trusted brand producing sleeves generously sized, securely sealed, and archivally constructed, collectors gain long-lasting preservation for their thick card treasures. With options accounting for variable thicknesses from 0.5mm up to 1mm cards, there’s a perfect hard sleeve solution to safeguard even the chunkiest of modern cardboard and delight in the artistic details for years to come.

BEST 1989 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Upper Deck baseball card set was truly groundbreaking and contained some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever produced. Upper Deck’s innovative manufacturing and quality control processes revolutionized the hobby and set the standard that remains to this day. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from the ’89 Upper Deck set that have become highly sought after by collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Card #1)

Undoubtedly the most famous and valuable card from the 1989 Upper Deck set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already making a name for himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars in 1989 and his rookie card is considered by many to be the finest baseball card ever produced. The Griffey rookie card features a stunning action photo of “The Kid” swinging the bat with excellent centering and image quality that was lightyears ahead of Topps at the time.

In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie card has sold for over $100,000 at auction in recent years, making it one of the most expensive sports trading cards ever. Even well-centered near mint copies still fetch thousands. The Griffey rookie is iconic not just for its subject but for really putting Upper Deck on the map and showing collectors the potential for quality that captured the player’s likeness perfectly. It’s truly a work of art and the crown jewel of any serious baseball card collection.

Nolan Ryan (#144)

“The Ryan Express” was still in his prime with the Texas Rangers in 1989 and his action shot card from the ’89 Upper Deck set is a fan favorite. The card features Ryan mid-windup, glaring in with blazing intensity. It’s an absolutely stunning image that really captures the flamethrower’s competitive fire on the mound.

As one of the most intimidating and decorated pitchers of all-time, Ryan’s cards from the late 80s period with Texas are some of his most sought after. The ’89 Upper Deck card in particular seems to really resonate with collectors and it routinely sells for hundreds of dollars in high-grade. It’s an iconic snapshot of one of baseball’s most imposing hurlers during his peak years.

Ozzie Smith (#531)

No one played shortstop with more flair and finesse than “The Wizard” and his 1989 Upper Deck card is a perfect representation of his elite defensive skills. The action shot features Smith gracefully backhanding a ground ball, showcasing his trademark smoothness and athleticism in the field.

Smith was still an All-Star calibre player for the Cardinals in 1989 and his cards from this era hold a special place in many collector’s hearts. High-grade copies of Ozzie’s ’89 Upper Deck card in the BGS/PSA 9-10 range can sell for $200-300. It’s one of the best defensive highlights from the set and a must-have for any Smith collection.

Rickey Henderson (#182)

Arguably the best leadoff hitter and baserunner in MLB history, Rickey Henderson was in his absolute prime with the Oakland A’s in 1989. His Upper Deck card from that year shows “The Man of Steal” digging for third base, exemplifying his unparalleled speed and instincts on the basepaths.

Henderson was the quintessential game-changing table-setter during his playing days and his cards remain fan favorites to this day. Well-centered mint copies of Rickey’s ’89 Upper Deck routinely sell for $100-150 given his popularity and iconic status in the game. It’s one of the set’s best action shots and a true reflection of Henderson’s one-of-a-kind talents.

Barry Bonds (#234)

Though he was still early in his career, Barry Bonds was already establishing himself as one of the game’s most feared power hitters by 1989. His Upper Deck card features a classic Bonds batting stance with his signature compact, coiled setup at the plate ready to unleash.

Bonds would go on to shatter the all-time home run record and many consider him the greatest pure hitter of all-time. His rookie and early career cards are some of the most desirable on the vintage market. High-grade copies of Barry’s ’89 Upper Deck routinely sell for $150-250 given his all-time great status. It’s a perfect snapshot of the skills that would make him a legendary slugger.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#108)

By 1989, Cal Ripken Jr. was already well on his way to breaking Lou Gehrig’s legendary consecutive games played streak. His Upper Deck card shows him fielding a grounder at shortstop, highlighting his tremendous durability and defensive abilities.

Ripken’s iconic streak endeared him to an entire generation of baseball fans and his cards from the late 80s/early 90s Baltimore years are extremely popular. Well-centered PSA/BGS 9+ copies of Cal’s ’89 UD card can sell for $100-150. It’s one of the finer shortstop highlights from the set and a great way to commemorate Ripken’s legendary career.

The 1989 Upper Deck set was truly revolutionary for the hobby and contained some of the most iconic rookie cards and player highlights ever. Cards like the Griffey, Ryan, Smith, Henderson, Bonds, and Ripken discussed here have become benchmark issues that are staples in collections worldwide due to their subject’s all-time great status and the sheer artistry of the photography. The ’89 Upper Deck set helped usher in the modern era of manufacturing quality control and design that we still enjoy today. It’s no wonder these special cards continue to captivate collectors and hold their value decades later.

COST OF GRADING BASEBALL CARDS

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The Cost of Grading Baseball Cards

Grading baseball cards is a popular way for collectors to verify the condition and authenticity of their valuable cards. The process of submitting cards to professional grading companies comes at a cost that collectors need to be aware of before starting the grading process. In this article, we will explore the various costs associated with grading cards through the major third-party grading companies and provide tips on how collectors can minimize expenses.

Upfront Submission Fees

All major grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC, and HGA charge submission fees per card to cover the costs of grading. Fees vary depending on the turnaround time and service level selected but generally range from $10-$20 per card for bulk submissions. Expedited service or single card submissions are more expensive, often $30 or more per card. Collectors need to budget for these upfront costs which can add up quickly depending on how many cards are being graded. Larger bulk submissions do provide some economy of scale savings compared to single card prices.

Shipping Costs

In addition to submission fees, collectors are responsible for the shipping costs to transport their cards to and from the grading company. USPS First Class Mail or Priority Mail are typically the cheapest options and can cost $5-$15 each way depending on the number of cards shipped. Insured shipping with tracking is recommended, adding to expenses. Expedited shipping for faster turnaround times is significantly more costly. Proper packing materials like sleeves, toploaders and boxes are also needed to safely ship cards, all adding to initial out-of-pocket costs.

Upgrade & Customization Fees

While the basic grading service examines authenticity and condition, collectors can choose to upgrade with additional customization and authentication options for an extra fee. Popular upgrades include sub-grade details, auto-authentication of signatures, and special label customization. Fees range from $8-$50 per card depending on the specific upgrade. While not required, these value-added services allow for a more comprehensive grading experience and resale appeal for high-end cards. Upgrades are another expense to budget for during the submission planning process.

Resubmission Fees

If a card comes back from grading with a lower grade than hoped or with qualifiers like “damage”, collectors have the option to resubmit the card for another review. Resubmissions are not free – companies charge resubmission fees which are usually a percentage (often 50%) of the regular submission price. Multiple resubmissions can add up quickly and eat into any potential profits from a card. Careful initial submission is important to avoid these additional costs.

Annual Storage & Insurance Fees

Once graded, most collectors will store their valuable cards long-term in the protective holders issued by the grading companies. This comes at an annual cost that must be paid to maintain the integrity and security of the grading. PSA charges $15-25 per year per card depending on value, while BGS and SGC charge $20 per year. Non-payment can result in cards being returned ungraded. Insurance for high-value cards also adds $1-5 per $1000 of declared value. Long-term holders need to budget for ongoing annual storage and insurance costs.

Resale Fees

If a graded card is eventually sold, most grading companies charge a small fee (usually 3-5% of sale price) when transferring ownership records to the new buyer. This protects authenticity but does cut into potential profits. Factoring in these transfer fees is important for collectors looking to eventually flip cards for monetary gain post-grading.

Taxes

Collectors need to be aware that profits from the sale of graded cards may be subject to capital gains taxes depending on how long the cards were held. Consultation with a tax professional is recommended to understand any potential tax obligations from monetizing a card collection through third-party grading over time.

While grading provides authentication and long-term protection for valuable cards, there are substantial upfront, ongoing, and potential resale costs collectors must budget for. Careful planning of submission strategies, turnaround needs, and future goals can help minimize total expenses over the life of a graded card collection. With the right expectations set, third-party grading remains a worthwhile investment for serious baseball card collectors looking to verify and preserve their prized pieces of sports history and pop culture memorabilia.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS NOW

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The baseball card collecting hobby has exploded in popularity over recent years, with classic vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s seeing tremendous value increases. Searching for the top baseball cards from the modern era can also yield fantastic finds and investment opportunities. Let’s take a look at some of the prized cards collectors covet from the past few decades.

Starting from the late 1980s until today, rookie cards of superstar players who went on to Hall of Fame careers remain hugely sought after. Chief among these is the iconic 1992 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered the most valuable modern baseball card in existence, ungraded PSA 10 mint condition Griffey rookies have sold for over $400,000. Even well-centered near mint copies still fetch five figures. Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and effortless fielding made him a fan favorite, and his rookie card captured the beginning of what would become a spectacular 22-year career.

Another quintessential 1990s rookie is the 1993 SP Derek Jeter. As the Captain and longtime shortstop of the mighty Yankees dynasty, Jeter achieved superstar status and cemented his legend with 5 World Series rings. His rookie card remains one of the most coveted and historically important cards for collectors. High-grade PSA 10 Jeter rookies have sold for upwards of $250,000. Another Yankee great, 1996 Pinnacle Quest for Perfection Mariano Rivera rookie holds tremendous esteem as well for collectors chasing the card of the game’s greatest closer.

The late 1990s/early 2000s saw an explosion of interest in the hobby fueled by the record-breaking home run chase of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa in 1998. As a result, cards from that incredible season hold cachet, such as McGwire’s 1998 SP Authentic Gold Label parallel #130 or Sosa’s 1998 Upper Deck SP #391. Rookies of players who starred in that era like Chipper Jones’ 1993 SP and Mike Piazza’s 1992 Bowman also remain investing focal points.

Into the 2000s, rookies of all-time talents like the 2001 SP Authentic Adrian Gonzalez, 2002 Bowman Chrome Miguel Cabrera, and 2003 Topps Big League Update Albert Pujols stayed hot. For newer collectors, National treasures like the 2017 Bowman Prospects Acuna Jr. Orange Refractor parallel #24/25 hold immense long term potential as one of the game’s young stars. The card features Acuna’s electric rookie season that saw him become the second teenager ever to hit 20 home runs and steal 30 bases in a season.

Beyond rookies, serial numbered parallels and inserts of franchise players can also drive huge prices. An example is the 1998 SPx Dennis Eckersley #1/100 serial numbered parallel, capturing one of the greatest closers in his Boston uniform after joining the Red Sox late in his Hall of Fame career. Autograph cards provide another avenue for high-end collectors – such as a 2004 Topps T205 Babe Ruth autographed parallel #7/25.

Error cards have also gained cult status and values. One error that consistently fetches six figures is the 1919 Eddie Plank “team color” error card, showing the Hall of Famer pitcher in an incorrect Phillies uniform instead of his true Athletics duds. Modern mistakes like the 2002 Topps Todd Hollandsworth blue border error also hold popularity.

Beyond individual cards, complete flagship sets are always prized trophies as well. High-grade near-mint to gem mint 1984, 1987, 1994, 2009 Topps flagship sets can easily top $10,000 raw and provide the ultimate base to build upon for any collector. And for sealed product hunters, unsearched wax boxes of coveted releases like 1992 Bowman, 1998 SP, 2003 Topps Chrome, or 2012 Panini Prizm offer the thrill of the rip with immense hidden potential value inside.

Authentication and grading also play a huge role in the worth of modern cards today. Third party authentication from sources like PSA, BGS, SGC provide credibility and protect against forgeries in the marketplace. Higher grades fetch premium prices – for example a PSA 10 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie may pull over $400K where a PSA 8 could be had for around $15,000. This emphasis on preservation and authenticity is a hallmark of today’s collecting landscape.

In the era of social media, new digital fronts like Topps NOW have also become popular for chasing limited prints featuring today’s biggest moments and performances. This new collecting realm offers a bridge between physical cardboard and virtual experiences. As technology continues to shape the hobby, innovative new products will surely emerge alongside classic brands like Topps, Bowman, and Upper Deck thriving at the forefront. With legends of the past and exciting new talents on the rise, the top baseball cards of today have never looked brighter for avid collectors pursuing the game’s history.

MOST VALUABLE 89 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Score baseball card set was unique for several reasons. It marked Score’s return to the baseball card market after a decade-long absence. The set also featured innovative vertical card designs that stood out compared to the traditional horizontal layout used by most other manufacturers at the time. While not the most visually appealing set of its time, 1989 Score cards triggered a resurgence of interest in the hobby and included several key rookie cards that havegrown enormously in value in the decades since. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable and important 1989 Score baseball cards today.

Perhaps the single most coveted and expensive card from the 1989 Score set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of, if not the best, player to ever play the game, cards featuring Griffey’s first major league appearance hold legendary status among collectors. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s 1989 Score rookie can fetch well over $10,000 today. Even well-centered, graded examples in Excellent or Near Mint condition often sell for $3,000-$5,000. What makes the card so desirable is not just Griffey’s eventual Hall of Fame career, but also the fact that his rookie card was the one that truly broke through to mainstream popularity and got the entire country collecting again during the early 90s boom.

Another tremendously valuable 1989 Score rookie is that of Barry Bonds. Like Griffey, Bonds went on to have a historically great career and is regarded as one of the best hitters in MLB history. Bonds won a record seven NL MVP awards during his career. His skinny, baby-faced rookie card shows promise of what was to come. Highly graded versions can reach $5,000+ due to his legendary playing resume and the card’s obvious significance as his true first major league card released. Even well-centered, ungraded examples in top shape bring $1,000+ due to strong, enduring collector demand.

While not a true rookie card, the 1989 Score trading card of Nolan Ryan at age 42 is also extremely significant and pricey for collectors today. It was Ryan’s final season before retiring and serves as his final card produced before hanging up his spikes. As one of the most accomplished pitchers in baseball history with a record 7 no-hitters, collectors clamor for any Ryan card they can get their hands on. A PSA 10 Gem Mint copy of his ’89 Score traded recently for a staggering $15,000 due to its utter perfection and iconic subject matter capturing a legend at the very end of his storied career. Even moderately-graded versions can cost over $1,000.

The Mark McGwire rookie card from the 1989 Score set is also a highly-desirable piece for collectors. Issued before McGwire’s 1987 debut, it is technically not his true rookie, but it captures McGwire in his earliest playing days and was the first widely available card released of him as a major leaguer. McGwire went on to smash the single-season home run record in 1998 and remains one of the most prolific sluggers in baseball history. Pristine, high-grade examples of his ’89 Score card have exceeded $3,000 at auction. Most valuable copies grade a PSA 8-9 and still pull $500-$1,000.

While stars like Griffey, Bonds, Ryan and McGwire naturally take the spotlight, there are several other lesser-known but still very valuable 1989 Score cards worth discussing. The Ivan Calderon rookie card is one of the set’s true hidden gems. Calderon played only 30 career games in the majors but his card was grossly underproduced compared to demand. High grades have sold for over $500 due to rarity alone. Another rare pull is the Todd Zeile rookie, which has also exceeded $500 in top condition despite Zeile having a relatively average career offensively. The same rarity premium applies to cards of Bill Pecota and Scott Bankhead, two career backup catchers whose rookie cards can reach $300+ graded.

While not the most artistically designed set from the heyday of the card boom, 1989 Score holds tremendous historical significance as the issue that reintroduced baseball cards to a massive audience of collectors. Relying less on visual flash than substance, the cards within tell the stories of all-time great players in their earliest years as well as obscure ones lost to history. Fueled by the success of stars like Junior, Bonds, and Big Mac, values have only escalated over time, making high-grade examples of virtually any card from the set a sound long-term basketball investment today. The 1989 Score baseballs cards truly launched a renaissance and remain icons in the hobby decades later.