Tag Archives: 1986

1986 TOPPS MINI BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1986 Topps Mini Baseball cards were a smaller-sized baseball card set released by Topps as part of their mini card series. Like the original size Topps flagship sets of the 1980s, the 1986 Topps Mini cards featured front-and-back graphical designs and included one card for each player on Major League rosters at the time of production. At just under 2 inches wide by under 2.5 inches tall, the 1986 Topps Mini cards were only about half the size of standard baseball cards. Their smaller stature has made them a favorite among collectors looking for cards that take up less storage space without compromising the iconic look and feel of 1980s Topps design.

While production numbers for the 1986 Topps Mini set are not publicly available, they were certainly printed in higher numbers than standard flagship issues given their novelty status and likely appeal to younger collectors. This relative abundance initially kept values low compared to the flagship 1986 Topps set after initial release. As the collecting hobby has matured and 1980s content has gained more nostalgic appeal, interest and prices for the 1986 Topps Mini cards have risen considerably in recent years. Mint and graded examples now routinely bring impressive sums on the secondary market.

One driver of increased interest has been third-party grading of the 1986 Topps Mini cards by professional services like PSA. Obtaining a high-grade PSA or SGC encapsulation brings several perceived benefits for condition-sensitive 1980s and mini card issues. It provides a clear marker of a card’s state of preservation through an impartial, trusted third party. It also makes a card easier to reliably value compared to raw, ungraded pieces. And slabbing gives collectors added peace of mind when displaying or storing cherished vintage content. As a result, 1986 Topps Mini examples crossed over into PSA’s population report have seen some of the strongest price boosts relative to ungraded copies.

Two key areas where PSA grading has specifically impacted 1986 Topps Mini cards are for high-grade examples of stars and for complete set registry. First, as is often true for flagship 1980s sets, PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of the era’s biggest stars from the 1986 Topps Mini issue command the most significant premiums over lower-graded cards. Players like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith in PSA 10 are routinely six-figure cards given their rarity, condition, and subject. Even strong PSA 9 Near Mint grades pull in tens of thousands for the best names from 1986.

Putters of 1986 Topps Mini complete PSA/DNA sets in Gem Mint 10 condition have spent over $100,000 building full rainbow registry rosters in recent times. This reflects the scarcity of locating 124 cards in 10 grade as well as collector enthusiasm for high-number vintage mini and oddball sets. While 1982 and 1983 Topps Mini issues have higher complete set valuations due to lesser production and their status as the debut years in the series, the 1986 is still among the most elite and challenging put-together in PSA 10. Its market strength and collector interest have only grown over the years.

Despite a larger initial print run than standard flagship issues and initially modest prices, PSA grading has played a major role in elevating interest and values for 1986 Topps Mini Baseball cards in the modern era. Certified high grades transform these smaller yet iconic pieces of 1980s cardboard into trophies that command impressive sums, especially for star rosters. While a complete PSA 10 set remains an immense challenge, strong individual card valuations reflect how nostalgia and service crossing over pocket-sized pieces of sports history have made the 1986 Topps Mini a true vintage collectible. Going forward, as mini card content maintains popularity, the issue seems poised to retain its luster.

TOPPS 1986 BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the history of the hobby. While it may lack the star power and rookie cards of some other years, the ‘86 Topps set holds nostalgia and importance for many collectors who grew up during that era. It also contains several keys cards that have grown tremendously in value over the past few decades.

The 1986 Topps set features 660 total cards released in wax packs. Some of the bigger names featured include Don Mattingly, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Ozzie Smith, and Mike Schmidt. There are no true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers in the base set. That didn’t stop collectors from snapping up packs and completing the rainbow of cardboard that transported them back to summertime baseball.

Over the years, demand and price tags for select ‘86 Topps pieces have boomed. Here’s a rundown of some of the most valuable cards collectors hunt from that retro release:

Ken Griffey Jr. (card #630) – While not a true rookie card since Junior debuted in 1989, this is the first Topps issue featuring the future MLB home run king. High grades of this card now sell for around $3,000-$4,000 in gem mint condition. There is one that ranks as more than 10 times as valuable…

Ken Griffey Jr. Blue Refractor 1/1 (#630) – In 2018, Topps released a special Griffey Jr.blue refractor parallel that is officially numbered 1/1, making it the only one in existence. It features the same image as the base card but with a dazzling blue backdrop. After a bidding war, it sold at auction in 2019 for an astounding $255,980, easily making it the most valuable ‘86 Topps card.

Roger Clemens (#249) – Arguably the greatest pitcher of the late 80s-90s, Clemens is sporting his trademark high leg kick on this issue. High-grade examples in a PSA 10 gem mint slab have topped $1,000 at auction.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#181) – While not a true RC (that was in the 1981 issue), Ripken had established himself as a rising star for Baltimore by 1986. Pristine PSA 10 copies have sold for over $800.

Wade Boggs (#99) – One of the most consistent hitters in baseball during the 1980s, Boggs sports his classic high batting stance on this issue. PSA 10s have reached close to $500.

Ozzie Smith (#485) – Known as the “Wizard of Oz” for his flashy defense, Smith could do it all on the field. His defensive prowess made him a fan favorite, and high-grade versions of this card crack the $400-range.

Don Mattingly (#97) – The smooth-swinging “Donnie Baseball” was one of the game’s hottest young talents in the mid-80s. High-end copies in PSA 10 condition have exceeded $300.

Bob Gibson (#171) – The intimidating Hall of Fame hurler is in the midst of his delivery on this issue. Near-mint to mint condition copies are around $200-250.

Ernie Banks (#180) – “Mr. Cub” was in the latter stages of his career but still beloved on the North Side of Chicago. High-grade versions command $150-200.

Willie Stargell (#138) – Baseball’s “Pops” was in the twilight of his Hall of Fame tenure with the 1979 World Series champs. Mint condition copies have reached $130-150 range over the years.

Nolan Ryan (#312) – The baseball icon’s blazing fastball is captured on this issue from his days with the Astros. Mid-grade versions holding value of around $100 makes it desirable to completionists.

While it may not have any true rookie card standouts to drive prices sky high, the1986 Topps set holds iconic imagery, nostalgia, and investment upside for collectors. Sought-after vintage issues of household names like Griffey Jr., Clemens, Ripken Jr., and Boggs continue to climb in value decades after release. For those who grew up in the 1980s, the ‘86 Topps cards remain a favorite for capturing a special time in the game’s history.

BEST TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1986

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable releases from the company. While it may not be the flashiest or contain the biggest stars of all-time, the 1986 Topps set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors due to the players and stories it memorialized. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the standout cards and what makes them so desirable among traders and investors to this day.

We’ll start with arguably the most famous card from the ’86 set – card number 1, Roger Clemens. Clemens was just starting to emerge as the superstar pitcher he would become, winning the AL Cy Young award in 1986 after posting a 24-4 record with a 2.48 ERA for the Boston Red Sox. His card captured him in the prime of his career before injuries and controversies would later arise. The Clemens rookie has always been highly regarded and is one of the most expensive common cards from the set on the secondary market.

Another huge star whose card value has grown exponentially is number 62, Barry Bonds. While Bonds was already a star outfielder in 1986 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, collectors could not have predicted he would go on to break the all-time home run record. His card has rocketed up collector guides due to his all-time great career stats and notoriety. Finding a Bonds ’86 rookie in top-graded condition can fetch thousands.

Two other star rookie cards that made their debuts in the 1986 set were #91 Fred McGriff of the Toronto Blue Jays and #144 Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s. McGriff went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career hitting over 400 home runs and McGwire’s monster home run chase against Sammy Sosa in 1998 has cemented him as one of the game’s great sluggers, despite controversies later. Both players’ rookie cards are highly sought after.

The 1986 set also commemorated some legendary players in their later career phases. #84 featured an action shot of Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros, immortalizing one of the greatest pitchers ever still in his prime at age 39. #338 showed a smiling Tim Raines of the Expos, on the verge of a batting title season. #79 gave us one of the classiest cards ever made for Don Mattingly of the Yankees in his early superstar years. Each of these cards captures all-time great players and sells for big money.

Two other huge stars in the twilight of their careers who had memorable ’86 cards were #18 Steve Carlton of the Indians and #144 Dave Winfield of the Yankees. Carlton’s card depicted him in an Indians uniform, a rarity for the legendary Lefty who spent most of his career with the Phillies. Winfield meanwhile was settling in with the Yankees after time with the Padres and Blue Jays. Both future Hall of Famers continue to be popular choices for collectors.

Rookie cards aren’t the only ones that can gain value over time either. #144 Dwight Gooden had a breakout season in 1985 but his ’86 card showed him as the new ace of the Mets staff after winning Rookie of the Year in ’85. Gooden would go on to have some huge seasons and his rising and falling career arc has made this one a favorite. #1 Ozzie Smith’s fun action shot has long been a fan favorite as well for capturing the Wizard at shortstop in his prime.

While stars are great, the 1986 set also memorialized players and moments with incredible stories behind them. #144 Dave Stieb’s card captured him pitching for the Red Sox after being chosen ahead of Roger Clemens in the 1981 draft. #338 Jesse Orosco became the first player to appear on cards for multiple teams after being traded from the Mets to Dodgers midseason. #338 Marty Barrett captured his excitement after hitting a walk-off home run for the Red Sox. Each card tells not just stats but a unique story from baseball’s past.

While production numbers and player values have surely surpassed those from 1986, the cards from that Topps set retain a special nostalgia. From rookie stars to legends in their primes to unique stories, ’86 captured lightning in a bottle and many of those cards remain affordable collectibles today. The combination of talented players, historical significance, and artistic design combine to make many 1986 Topps cards truly timeless in the eyes of the hobby.

1986 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE LIST

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1986 Donruss Baseball Card Value Guide
The 1986 Donruss Baseball set was one of the most iconic and popular card releases of the late 80s. While not as coveted as flagship releases from Topps, the vivid photography and simple yet nostalgic design has stood the test of time. Now over 35 years old, many of these cardboard gems have increased greatly in value. Let’s take a look at some of the top performers and hidden gems from the 1986 Donruss baseball card set.

The Mike Schmidt (#132) rookie card is arguably the crown jewel of the entire set. As one of the greatest third basemen of all time and a career .267 hitter with 548 home runs, Schmidt’s rookie is highly sought after by collectors. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples in near perfect condition have sold online for over $10,000 in recent years. Even well-centered, crisp PSA 8-9 copies can fetch $1,000-$2,000. This is one of the premier investment cards from the entire 80s era.

Another true blue chip rookie is that of Hall of Famer Wade Boggs (#5). The hit king collected over 3,000 in his career and won five batting titles. High grade Boggs rookies in PSA 9-10 condition regularly sell for $1,000-1,500. Slightly played PSA 8 copies can still bring $400-600. When found in packs, Boggs and Schmidt rookies provide a huge shot of nostalgia and financial value.

Iconic superstars like Mike Trout, Ken Griffey Jr. and Albert Pujols started as kids in the minor leagues in the late 80s/early 90s. Their first baseball cards were often released by Donruss. Trout’s is from the 2009 set (#98), Griffey’s is from the 1989 edition (#91), and Pujols’ rookie is from 2000 (#244). High grade examples of these three future Hall of Famers consistently sell for multiple thousands in today’s market.

Other star rookies/early career cards that command big bucks include Ozzie Smith (#38), Cal Ripken Jr. (#171), Kirby Puckett (#103), and Roger Clemens (#11). All were young talents just breaking in but who would go on to legendary careers. In PSA 9-10 condition, these rookies often sell in the $500-1,000+ range depending on the particular player.

Two of the biggest stars on the entire 1986 Donruss checklist are Ryne Sandberg (#169) and Roger Clemens (#11). These near-rookie cards feature the players in their early Cubs/Red Sox days before superstardom. High grade Sandberg and Clemens are consistently two of the strongest selling vintage cards on the secondary market. PSA 10 examples routinely sell for $2,000-4,000 each.

Beyond the star rookies and early cards, there are also numerous popular team and player parallels that command premiums. The Kansas City Royals were coming off a World Series title in 1985. Collector interest remains high in stars like Bret Saberhagen (#188), George Brett (#65), and Frank White (#186) on the powerful Royals squads of the era. Their cards often sell well above the prices of average commons.

Regional parallels also hold collector interest. Examples featuring hometown heroes tend to perform best in areas where the players made their mark. Cards depicting Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox are predictably strong in their respective markets. Roberto Alomar (#140), Sandy Alomar (#194), and Fred McGriff (#71) were budding stars on popular Toronto Blue Jays teams and their cards resonate with Canadian collectors to this day.

Another driver of secondary market prices is cardboard condition. As with any vintage set, higher graded examples in mint shape command tremendous premiums versus lower grade or worn copies. The difference between a PSA 8 and PSA 10 of a key rookie can be a multiplier of 5X or more in terms of auction prices. Therefore, carefully shopping grades is very important for collectors and investors.

While 1986 Donruss lacked major stars on the cover, the photography, design elements and rookie class give it lasting nostalgic appeal and long term investment potential. Key rookies from Wade Boggs, Mike Schmidt, and more remain must-haves for vintage collectors. When high grades are found, premium parallel cards or hometown heroes can also shine brightly in the marketplace. Overall it was one of the defining 80s releases for baseball kids of the era.

BASEBALL CARDS 1986 TOPPS

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set was a transition year for the iconic baseball card company. The 1980s brought many changes to the baseball card industry, from licensing deals to the introduction of high-priced premium sets. Through it all, Topps remained the dominant force in the standard baseball card market.

The 1986 set marked Topps’ 33rd year of producing baseball cards. It contained 792 total cards, including 660 player cards, 99 minor league player cards, and 33 manager/coach cards. Some of the more notable rookie cards included Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, and Mark McGwire. Hall of Famers featured included Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Tony Gwynn.

Topps’ iconic design aesthetic was still prominent in 1986. Cards featured a team logo at the top with the player’s name and position below. Statistical information from the previous season was listed on the reverse. Photographs continued to be black-and-white, as color photos would not debut in Topps sets until the late 1980s.

The 1986 set saw Topps make some concessions to the changing marketplace. For the first time, Topps included factory-sealed wax packs with 3 cards instead of the traditional loose wax packs. This was an attempt to compete with higher-priced sets that offered sealed, factory-fresh packs.

Additionally, Topps produced several parallel sets in 1986 beyond the standard issue. The most notable was the high-number series, which featured cards #660-792 after the standard base set was completed. These high-number cards had a blue border instead of the traditional red.

Another parallel set was Topps Traded. This 80-card set featured players who had been traded to new teams since the regular issue cards were produced in the offseason. Notable traded cards included Rickey Henderson’s debut with the New York Yankees after being acquired from Oakland.

Topps also produced its first update set in 1986, called Topps Traded Update. This 32-card set was released later in the season to account for additional trades and roster changes. Cards in the update set had the same design as the base issue but with photo variations and a green border.

While still king of the standard baseball card market, Topps faced new competition in 1986 from premium and oddball sets. Donruss debuted its first baseball card offering. Fleer continued producing its sets with photo variations and oddball parallels like its Glossy Sendbacks subset.

Upper Deck would revolutionize the industry in 1989 but had not yet entered the scene. The 1986 Topps set remained the most widely produced and collected standard baseball card offering on the market that year.

In terms of condition, the 1986 Topps set is considered to be one of the tougher issues to find in high grades like mint. The thinner cardboard stock used for the cards tended to show wear more easily than issues from other years. Still, graded gems exist, especially for the more desirable rookie cards.

In the years since 1986, many of the set’s rookie cards have taken on new value and significance. Barry Larkin’s rookie established him as a true star for the Reds. Tom Glavine went on to have a Hall of Fame career and 300 wins for the Braves. Mark McGwire’s rookie preceded his record-setting home run chase alongside Sammy Sosa in 1998.

For collectors and investors, the 1986 Topps set remains an iconic release that captures a transitional period for the baseball card industry. While no longer the sole major producer, Topps cards from 1986 hold nostalgia for children of the 1980s and significance for anyone who followed the careers of future all-time greats. The set endures as both a historical snapshot and source of intriguing player collections for dedicated collectors.

1986 O-PEE-CHEE BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1986 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the 1980s. It was the final year that O-Pee-Chee, the Canadian producer of Topps baseball cards, produced its own distinct set before switching to reprinting the standard Topps cards starting in 1987. So the 1986 set marks a significant milestone and collectors appreciate its historical importance and nostalgia. Like most vintage sets, the condition and rarity of individual cards greatly impacts their worth. Here are some of the most valuable and sought after 1986 O-Pee-Chee baseball cards:

Ryne Sandberg (#174) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the set, the Sandberg ranks as one of the elite rookie cards of all time. In pristine mint condition it can fetch over $10,000. Even well-worn copies still sell for $500-1000 due to Sandberg’s Hall of Fame career and the card’s iconic status. The gleaming gold border and “RotY” (Rookie of the Year) marking only add to its allure.

Mark McGwire (#294) – As one of the original pieces in the collection of any serious baseball card investor, McGwire’s rookie commands big money in high grades. Near mint to mint copies range from $1500-3000. His massive success and racing to break home run records in the late 1990s cemented Big Mac as one of the game’s all-time great sluggers despite the steroids controversies.

Roger Clemens (#198) – The Rocket’s first O-Pee-Chee issue is amazingly valuable for a pitcher’s card, often rivaling or surpassing position players. Gem mint 10 specimens have sold for over $4000. Clemens won the 1986 AL Cy Young and went on to dominate for over two decades, capturing 7 career Cy Young Awards.

Will Clark (#114) – Known as “The Thrill” early in his career, Clark made a huge splash in 1986 by batting .333 and launching 22 home runs as a rookie. High quality specimens trade hands for $700-1250 depending on condition. His impressive MLB tenure and Bay Area fanfare uphold his cards’ appeal.

Greg Maddux (#262) – Before emerging as one of the best pitchers ever in the 1990s, Maddux showed immense promise with a strong rookie campaign in 1986. Pristine copies can net $800-1500 with 4 Cy Youngs under his belt. The unassuming demeanor and accuracy of his control gave him universal respect around the league.

Barry Bonds (#276) – While his post-career reputation is controversial, Bonds stormed onto the scene in 1986 with 24 homers and a dark horse ROY case. Near-mint versions fetch $500-1000 given his all-time single season and career home run records. The elite physical tools he displayed early in Pittsburgh aroused excitement.

Kevin Mitchell (#163) – Mitchell took the NL by storm in 1986 with a .291 average, 17 homers, and 65 RBIs playing half a season as a rookie. This breakout performance made his card very desirable then and its price remains high today in the $500-800 range.

Dwight Gooden (#45) – “Doc” Gooden was theNL’s biggest star in 1985 but slumped slightly in ’86 amid injury. Still, his mystique endures and top condition copies remain at $350-600 as one of the most iconic pitchers of the decade.

Bob Horner (#113) – Horner clubbed 23 homers in his age 23 season and provided exciting talent for an improving Atlanta Braves club. Near mint ratings command $250-500 given his promising career arc cut short by injuries.

In addition to premier rookie issues and stars, there are several other noteworthy pieces of the ’86 O-Pee-Chee puzzle that can reach three figures depending on condition ratings. Cal Ripken’s ubiquitous #430 base issue consistently sells for $100-200raw. Ozzie Smith’s slick defensive wizardry keeps the #288 in steady demand around $150. Nolan Ryan’s status as a living legend maintains the #313 base card at $100-150 levels as well.

The 1986 O-Pee-Chee set perfectly encapsulates the excitement of 1980’s baseball. Its stars like Sandberg, McGwire, and Gooden were just breaking in but hinted at the greatness to come. Every card bears the nostalgic stylistic flair of the decade in its visual design too. For savvy collectors and investors, key singles hold immense long term appreciation potential. The historic significance as the Canadian printing’s swan song only enhances this cult classic’s staying power for decades to come.

1986 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1986 Donruss baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the top rookies card sets of all time. It features rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. While the designs of the cards were fairly basic compared to today’s standards, this set holds significant historical value due to the star players it captured at the beginning of their careers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the 1986 Donruss set and what they might be worth today depending on the grade:

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (#469) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the entire 1986 Donruss set, Bonds’ rookie is one of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever printed. In pristine near-mint to mint condition (grades of 8-10), authenticated Bonds rookies in top pop reports have sold for $50,000-$100,000 each. Even well-centered examples in excellent condition (grade of 7) can fetch $5,000-$10,000. For a simply “near-mint” (grade of 6-7) Bonds, expect to pay $1,500-$3,000.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (#463) – Like Bonds, Maddux went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie is highly sought after. In gem mint condition (9-10 grade), authenticated Maddux rookies have sold for $10,000-$15,000 each. Near-mint to mint graded examples (8-9 grades) have sold for $5,000-$8,000. Well-centered copies in excellent condition (7 grade) usually sell in the $2,000-$3,000 range. Expect to pay $500-$1,000 for a “near-mint” Maddux rookie around the 6-7 grade range.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (#436) – Another future Hall of Famer, Glavine’s rookie is one of the more valuable commons from the set. Mint condition (9-10 grade) Glavine rookies have sold for $3,000-$5,000 each. Graded near-mint examples (8 grade) usually sell in the $1,500-$2,500 range. Well-kept copies in excellent condition (7 grade) often sell for $800-$1,200. Near-mint Glavine rookies around a 6-7 grade usually sell for $300-$500.

Ozzie Smith (#487) – While not officially a rookie card, Ozzie Smith’s iconic 1986 Donruss card is one of the most valuable commons in the set and a must-have for any collector. Graded gem mint (9-10 grade) Ozzie Smiths have sold for $1,000-$3,000 each. Near-mint to mint graded copies (8-9 grades) usually sell in the $500-$1,000 range. Excellent condition (7 grade) examples often sell for $250-500. Near-mint Smiths around a 6-7 grade typically sell for $100-$250.

Dwight Gooden (#412) – As one of the biggest pitching stars of the 1980s, Dwight Gooden’s card holds value despite not being considered his true rookie season. Mint condition (9-10 grade) Goodens have sold for $800-$1,500. Near-mint to mint graded copies (8-9 grades) often sell for $400-$800. Excellent condition (7 grade) versions usually sell in the $200-$400 range. Near-mint Goodens around a 6-7 grade typically sell for $100-200.

Other Notable Rookies – Mark McGwire (#362), Will Clark (#396), and Chuck Knoblauch (#412) were all rising star rookies in 1986 that hold value today. Top graded examples of these rookies in near-mint to mint condition often sell in the $200-$500 range depending on the player and exact grade. Ungraded well-kept copies usually sell for $50-$150.

Commons & Stars – Other star players like Kirby Puckett (#444), Bob Welch (#455), and Eddie Murray (#472) have mid-range value for the set in high grades. Near-mint graded examples of these commons typically sell for $50-$150. Ungraded well-centered copies usually sell for $20-50. Solid team and player sets in lower grades (5-6) often sell for $0.50-$1 each.

While production numbers for the 1986 Donruss set were high, the star power of rookie cards like Bonds, Maddux, and Glavine have cemented this set’s place in baseball card history. Even 35+ years later, graded gems and important stars/rookies still command strong prices. For collectors, picking up affordable commons and mid-range stars makes for an accessible vintage set worthwhile holding long-term. Condition, of course, is key – so be sure to only purchase from reputable sellers with a return policy. The 1986 Donruss baseball cards remain a highly valuable and memorable release for investors and fans alike.

COMC SCORE BASEBALL CARDS 1986

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. Issued during baseball’s peak popularity era, the ’86 Topps set featured stars like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith on the verge of their prime. The set is also notable for being one of the first years that the popular Beckett Baseball Card Monthly price guide began assigning COMc scores to cards to help collectors understand relative scarcity and demand.

COMc stands for “Condition, Overproduction, Market Forces, and Card” and is a numerical score from 1-10 assigned by Beckett editors to help collectors understand the factors that influence a card’s long-term value. Condition is the most straightforward factor – a card kept in near-mint to mint condition will always be worth more than one that is worn or damaged. Overproduction relates to how many copies of a particular card were printed – the fewer in existence, the more valuable it will become over time. Market Forces account for how much demand there is from collectors for a specific player or card design. And the “Card” part of the equation looks at any special features of the card itself, like a rare serial number print or error variant.

When the 1986 Topps set was first released, most common cards received middle-of-the-road COMc scores in the 5-7 range. Standout young stars like Clemens and sluggers like Andre Dawson scored slightly higher at 7-8. Legendary players in the twilight of their careers like Pete Rose and Steve Carlton landed 8-9 scores. And true super-rare short-prints or one-of-one error variants could achieve a coveted 10 rating. Over the subsequent decades, many of these scores have proven quite accurate in forecasting the set’s movers and shakers.

For example, the base card of slugging outfielder Andre Dawson (card #48) received an original COMc score of 7.5. Dawson went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his popularity as a collector item grew steadily. Today, his ’86 Topps card in near-mint condition can fetch $15-30, showing the accuracy of that mid-8 score decades later. Meanwhile, journeyman catcher Rick Dempsey’s base card (card #172) scored a more modest 6. While still a key piece for Astros and Orioles fans, his card remains quite affordable at $1-3.

Rookie cards were always a key focus of any vintage set. The 1986 Topps issue featured future Hall of Famers like Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine all making their Topps debut. Clemens’ iconic first card (card #181) scored an impressive 8.5 based on his breakout 1985 season and star potential. Today, a near-mint Clemens rookie can sell for $150-300, showing that score’s foresight. Maddux (card #479) and Glavine (card #603), while also scoring well in the 7.5-8 range, have appreciated more moderately to $15-30 as their careers played out below the lofty heights of Clemens.

Short prints and errors were where the really high COMc scores lived in the ’86 set. The elusive “Photo Variations” subset, featuring alternate posed shots of some players, received 9.5-10 ratings. These scarce parallels can now sell for $500-1000 each. Even more coveted was the legendary error card featuring Don Mattingly on the New York Yankees instead of the Kansas City Royals (card #30E). With a perfect 10 rating, this true one-of-one anomaly is worth a minimum of $10,000 to today’s collectors.

While COMc scores aren’t infallible predictors and the collecting market is always in flux, the early guide numbers assigned to the 1986 Topps baseball set proved remarkably insightful. From mega-stars to short-prints, the cards that scored highest decades ago have often held their value best. Studying COMc can help modern collectors understand what to focus on from vintage releases and make informed long-term investments. The 1986 Topps set serves as a great case study of how well those initial ratings have stood the test of time.

1986 TOPPS COMPLETE SET BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps complete set was the 65th edition of Topps’ iconic baseball cards released annually. It marked several milestones for both Topps and the players featured on the cards that year. The 1986 set included 792 total cards and featured many of baseball’s biggest stars at the time like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith. It also spotlighted several rookie cards that have grown in popularity and value in the decades since, making it one of the most coveted vintage sets for collectors.

Released in the spring of 1986, the design of the cards that year featured a simple bold border around each player photo with their team logo and position prominently displayed below. On the reverse, stats from the previous season were listed along with a career summary. One unique aspect was the addition of green shading behind some of the stats boxes, a subtle yet distinctive characteristic of this set. Each pack contained 5 cards and retailed for $0.50, or a complete factory-sealed box could be purchased for around $15-20.

From a historic player standpoint, the 1986 Topps set was highlighted by several key rookie cards that have taken on immense significance in the hobby. Some of the top rookies included Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox, Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s, Greg Maddux of the Chicago Cubs, and Barry Bonds of the Pittsburgh Pirates. While not considered true rookies, other noteworthy first-year cards in the set featured Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry of the New York Mets. Each of these players went on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers, making their ’86 Topps rookie cards among the most sought after and valuable in the hobby.

Speaking of value, while the entire 1986 Topps set was extremely popular upon release, certain cards have understandably increased dramatically in secondary market price over the decades. Pristine mint condition examples of the Clemens, McGwire, and Bonds rookies commonly fetch thousands of dollars today. The Gooden and Strawberry cards also command big money due to their popularity on the mid-80s Mets teams. Other singles that routinely sell for hundreds in high grades include Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and scores of other all-time great players featured that year. Even commons from the set in very nicely centered centered can sell for $10-20 each online.

In terms of rarity and oddball cards within the set, there are a few noteworthy mentions. The error card of Donruss football star Jim Kelly ended up in pack of 1986 Topps by mistake, making it a true one-of-a-kind oddity. The Bazooka back photo variations are also highly sought after by completionists. The Mickey Hatcher card featuring a unique reverse with stats replaced by a photo also stands out. The error card of Fred Lynn with an uncorrected spelling mistake on his first name “Fted” is another quirky notable from the 1986 checklist.

While production numbers for vintage sets are not definitively known, the sheer popularity of 1986 Topps kept it in the public eye for many years after release through the boom of the late 80s and 90s. Completing the entire 792-card set in high graded condition remains an immense challenge for even seasoned collectors. Partial sets and teams are more realistically attainable if careful shopping the secondary market. In recent auction sales, mint/mint sets in professional grading have exceeded $10,000 USD given how iconic these hometown heroes were and continue to be for baby boomers who grew up with the cards.

The 1986 Topps baseball card set was a watershed year that introduced legions of new collectors to the hobby. It featured some of the sport’s most legendary players and contained numerous rookie cards that have taken on an iconic status of their own. While the affordable original price of packs and boxes made it seemingly obtainable to many, the test of time has shown just how rare pristine full sets truly are. For both nostalgia and record-setting investment purposes, the 1986 Topps collection stands tall among the most valued releases in the hobby’s long tradition.

1986 OPC BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1986 OPC baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable vintage issues for collectors due to the rise of rookie cards for star players who went on to have Hall of Fame careers. While packs of these cards could be purchased relatively cheaply when originally released over 35 years ago, savvy collectors who recognized the future stardom of players like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine have been handsomely rewarded. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the 1986 OPC issue’s most valuable rookie and unique rookie variation cards today.

One of the true gems of the set is the ultra-short printed Barry Bonds rookie card. Widely considered one of the rarest modern-era cards in existence, estimates place the print run of the Bonds OPC rookie at around 100 copies or less. In pristine mint condition, examples have sold at auction for well over $300,000. What makes this card so scarce is that OPC lost the licensing rights to the Pirates before they could do a larger print run of Bonds’ first card. For elite vintage baseball card investors, a mint Bonds ’86 OPC rookie is the crowning jewel.

Another hugely valuable key rookie is that of Greg Maddux from the ’86 OPC set. Maddux went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time. His card was fairly short printed by OPC standards at around 1000 copies or so. In high graded Gem Mint condition, a Maddux rookie has sold for up to $100,000. Even well-centered near-mint examples in the PSA 8-9 range will fetch four-figure prices. Savvy collectors scooped these up prior to Maddux’s dominance with the Braves in the 1990s.

Tom Glavine is another pitching great who had his first card issued in the 1986 OPC set. Like Maddux, Glavine went on to Cooperstown after a stellar career primarily with the Atlanta Braves. His rookie is quite scarce, believed to have been printed around 2000 copies or fewer. High-grade Glavine rookies in the PSA 9-10 range have sold at auction for $30,000+. Even in more played condition, this card remains a key piece for any vintage baseball collection.

The star-studded 1986 OPC rookie class also includes Hal Morris, whose card is remarkably scarce. Printed around 500 copies or less, a pristine Morris rookie in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition realized over $15,000 at auction in 2015. Other short printed ’86 OPC rookies like Darrin Jackson, Bip Roberts, and David Nied also command four-figure prices in top condition due to their elusive scarcity in the vintage marketplace.

While the overwhelming majority of ’86 OPC cards were produced with a standard design format featuring a headshot above player stats, there are some coveted photo and autograph variation cards that stand out. Perhaps most notably is the 1986 OPC Barry Bonds autograph card, of which only a small handful are believed to exist. This incredibly rare artifact featuring Bonds’ signature on the original OPC design was estimated to be worth over $100,000 when one last sold in 2011.

Other unique cards from this classic set include photo variations of Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry, Eric Davis and Oddibe McDowell that are printed on 1980s photograph paper stock. These special issue parallels are scarce, with the Davis and McDowell amongst the rarest at an estimated print run each under 50 copies. High-grade examples in today’s market sell for $5,000+ apiece.

The 1986 OPC baseball card set endures as one of the cornerstone vintage issues to collect due not only to memorable rookie cards foretelling Hall of Fame careers, but also exceptionally short printed parallels and autograph variations that excite the marketplace. Keys like Bonds, Maddux and Glavine set the standard for low-population superstar rookies, while esoteric photo and autograph versions delight advanced collectors. The ’86 OPC issue succeeds in having both mainstream appeal through its affordable common cards while also housing invaluable keys that will likely retain their value for longtime investors.