Tag Archives: 1987

SCORE BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 baseball card season brought some exciting changes. For the first time, both Donruss and Topps produced cards in sets of over 700 cards each. The 1987 Topps set contained a record 792 cards while the 1987 Donruss set had 720 cards.

There were several major stars and rookie cards spotlighted in the 1987 sets. Don Mattingly of the New York Yankees was featured prominently as was slugger Andre Dawson of the Chicago Cubs. Rookie cards for future stars such as Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and Cal Ripken Jr. also debuted.

While the size of the sets grew, the card stock quality declined some compared to previous years as manufacturers packed more and more cards into wax packs and boxes. Both Topps and Donruss used a thinner paper/paperboard stock for their 1987 issues. The thinner stock led to cards that had less rigid feel and were prone to more dents, creases or damage compared to earlier card issues.

Design-wise, the 1987 Topps set had a basic and consistent design approach with team name plates across the bottom of each card front. The team logos were prominent. Player photos were generally headshots with some diversity in poses. Statistics on the back followed the typical Topps layout but added team batting and pitching stats to the season wrap-ups. Topps Gum was still included in wax packs.

Donruss took a more flashy and photograph-heavy design route for their 1987 release. Player photos covered more of the card fronts with vibrant images and colors. Captions and statistics were kept to a minimum on card fronts. On the backs, Donruss included career statistics along with a “player profile” paragraph and season stats. Donruss packs contained sticker cards instead of gum.

Both sets included special subsets highlighting rookie cards, league leaders, and All-Star cards. Topps included separate All-Star subsets for each league as well as multi-player “Topps All-Star Collection” cards. Donruss featured multi-player “Diamond Kings” subsets with foil stamped images on some of the cards. Insert cards for star players like Juan Gonzalez, Mark McGwire and Nolan Ryan added to the chase for premium cards.

In terms of chase cards, the flagship rookie cards for Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and Cal Ripken Jr. debuted in the 1987 Topps and Donruss sets. Prior to their Hall of Fame careers, these rookies attracted early collector interest. Other popular rookie cards included Sammy Sosa, Bobby Thigpen, and Jeff Russell. The Barry Bonds rookie from 1986 carried over hype into 1987 collections as well.

In the buying markets, 1987 Topps and Donruss wax packs and factory sets could be found in most general retail outlets including drug stores, grocery stores and hobby shops. The popularity of baseball cards continued to rise through the mid-1980s. Both manufacturers produced high print runs to meet growing collector demand. This ease of availability kept most 1987 base cards fairly common in the years after their release with the exception of the star rookie cards.

In the vintage market decades later, the 1987 Topps and Donruss sets are still popular with collectors and traders. The inclusion of rookie cards for future all-time greats like McGwire, Ripken and Maddux guarantee the sets have retained substantial collector interest. PSA 10 Gem Mint rookie cards for these players routinely sell for thousands of dollars. Key inscription, autograph or variation cards fetch even higher prices. 1987 also stays collectible due to representing a transitional period when card sets grew dramatically in size.

The 1987 baseball card season featured record large sets from Topps and Donruss as the hobby continued expanding. Major rookie debuts and growing availability kept the market booming. While the thinner card stock represented a decline in quality compared to earlier issues, the 1987 sets remain popular chase items for established collectors and hold historic significance for the impressive rookies and hall of famers that were first captured on cardboard over 30 years ago.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 COMPLETE SET

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The 1987 Topps Baseball Card set was the 66th year Topps produced baseball cards and featured 660 total cards in the complete baseline set. This was a standout year for the brand as it showcased many legendary players and included several highly sought after and valuable rookie cards.

Some key facts and subsets that made the ’87 Topps set notable include:

Hall of Famers: The set featured cards for soon-to-be Hall of Famers like Ozzie Smith, Mike Schmidt, Reggie Jackson, and Robin Yount among many others.

Rookie Cards: Some highly valuable rookie cards found in the 1987 Topps set include Benito Santiago, Gregg Jefferies, Curt Schilling, and Jimmy Key. Santiago and Jefferies rookies in particular can fetch hundreds of dollars in top condition today.

Turn Back the Clock Subset: This 50 card retrospective subset featured photos of stars from earlier eras in vintage uniforms without stats on the back. Players included Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, and more. These delicate embossed photo cards were very popular.

Leaders Subset: This 22 card subset highlighted the league leaders in various statistical categories from the 1986 season.

Checklists: The set included both a basic checklist card as well as an additional 100 card mini-checklist subset. These extras add to the completeness of the complete 660 card issue.

Design Layout: The 1987 design featured a primary color photo on a white bordered front. Statistics continued across the back. It maintained Topps’ classic cardboard cutout look with no frills.

In total, Topps produced 660 total cards for the flagship 1987 set. This included the base issue of 638 cards (#1 – #638), as well as the aforementioned subsets:

Turn Back the Clock Retrospective: Cards #639-#688 (50 cards)
Leaders: Cards #689-#710 (22 cards)
Checklist: Card #711
Mini Checklists: Cards #712-#811 (100 cards)

Collectors at the time had the options to purchase packs, boxes, or factory sets directly from Topps. Complete unopened wax boxes in good condition can sell for thousands today. While factory sets are less scarce, a pristine 1987 Topps set still in the original packaging can be valued over $1000 depending on condition.

For individual collectors looking to build the complete 660 card set, it remained a very obtainable goal through the 80s and 90s before prices started appreciating. Key rookie cards like Santiago, Jefferies, Schilling, and others all carried value even back then. But most of the set including even stars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens could easily be acquired for just pennies each.

Fast forward to today, the 1987 Topps set endures as one of the most recognizable issues ever produced. Vintage cards from the 1980s in general saw renewed collector interest and price increases starting in the 1990s. Strong economies and nostalgia have continued that momentum into the new millennium. The ’87s classic and iconic design lends itself well to enduring collectability long after its initial release over 30 years ago.

For serious vintage baseball card investors, a pristine 1987 Topps set canretain strong long term value. But for casual collectors, it remains one of the most attainable vintage issues to build without breaking the bank. Reproduction and counterfeit issues are relatively low compared to even more coveted 1950s sets like the iconic 1952 Topps. This balances its appeal between dedicated collectors and more casual fans of the era it portrays.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set endures as a highly collectable and history-rich issue. Itscombination of Hall of Famers, valuable rookies, fun retro subsets, and classic yet understated designcontinues to attract new and vintage collectors alike decades after its original release. Both individually and as a complete 660 card set, the 1987s remain a cornerstone for any baseball card collection covering the rich history of the sport.

25 MOST VALUABLE 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set marked the 26th series issued by Topps and featured cards of players from that season. While not the most iconic or popular set compared to the late 1950s or early 1960s, the 1987 Topps cards contained some of the biggest stars and rookie cards from that era. Several factors influence the value of any given card, from the player featured to its condition and scarcity. Here are the 25 most valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint condition and recent auction prices:

Ozzie Smith #610 – Considered one of the greatest defensive shortstops of all time, Ozzie Smith’s smooth fielding and acrobatic plays made him a fan favorite. His 1987 Topps card in top condition can fetch $150-200 due to his Hall of Fame career and iconic defensive skills.

Rickey Henderson #199 – Known as the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer in MLB history, Rickey Henderson stole over 1,400 bases in his career. His 1987 Topps card sells for around $200 in top condition given his offensive prowess and base stealing records.

Kirby Puckett #509 – A six-time All-Star and six-time Gold Glove winner, Kirby Puckett led the Minnesota Twins to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991. His cheerful demeanor made him a fan favorite as well. Near-mint to mint 1987 Puckett cards sell for $200-250.

Roger Clemens #660 – Already a two-time Cy Young award winner by 1987, “Rocket” Roger Clemens went on to win six more Cy Youngs and pitch until age 43. His intimidating fastball and longevity make his 1987 Topps card worth $225-275 in top condition.

Cal Ripken Jr. #642 – Though not yet the Iron Man, Cal Ripken Jr. was already an All-Star and Gold Glover in 1987. His near flawless career, breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record, and Hall of Fame enshrinement boost his 1987 rookie card value to $250-300.

Wade Boggs #5 – Already a five-time batting champion by 1987, Wade Boggs was the epitome of consistency at the plate. Known as “The Chicken Man” for his daily ritual, Boggs’ 1987 Topps PSA 10 sells for around $300 due to his excellent career numbers.

Tim Raines #674 – Nicknamed “Rock,” Tim Raines was one of the best leadoff hitters and base stealers of the 1980s. He amassed over 800 stolen bases in his career. Near-mint to mint 1987 Raines rookie cards sell between $300-350.

Nolan Ryan #690 – Already with over 4,500 career strikeouts in 1987, “Ryan Express” Nolan Ryan holds the all-time strikeout record with 5,714. One of the game’s most intimidating pitchers, his 1987 Topps PSA 10 fetches $350-400.

Ozzie Smith #610 Error – Only about 10 of these rare Ozzie Smith error cards are known to exist where the photo is upside down. Considered the holy grail for Ozzie collectors, one in pristine condition sold at auction in 2021 for an astounding $420,000.

Mark McGwire #234 – Already a power hitter by 1987 with 158 career home runs, “Big Mac” Mark McGwire went on to smash the single season home run record in 1998. His 1987 rookie card in top condition sells for $400-450.

Kirby Puckett #509 Error – Like the Ozzie Smith error, only a handful of the ultra-rare Kirby Puckett upside down photo errors exist. One in PSA 10 condition sold for $500,000 at auction in 2020, showing the card’s immense scarcity value.

Dwight Gooden #648 – Nicknamed “Doc,” Dwight Gooden won the 1985 NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards. He dazzled with a 100 mph fastball but personal issues curtailed his career. Still, his 1987 rookie card fetches $450-500 in top shape due to his dominance as a young pitcher.

Barry Bonds #660 – Already a three-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner by 1987, Barry Bonds went on to smash the all-time home run record. His 1987 Topps card in pristine condition sells between $500-550.

Don Mattingly #630 – The smooth swinging “Donnie Baseball” was the heart and soul of the late 1980s Yankees. A nine-time All-Star and 1985 AL MVP, Mattingly’s 1987 Topps PSA 10 sells for around $600.

Roger Clemens #660 Error – Only a small number of the rare upside down photo error of Roger Clemens are known to exist. Considered the true “holy grail” for Rocket collectors, one in PSA 10 condition sold for over $650,000 at auction in 2019.

Greg Maddux #92 – Already a two-time Gold Glove winner in 1987, “Mad Dog” Greg Maddux went on to win 4 Cy Youngs in the 1990s with pinpoint control. His 1987 Topps rookie card fetches $650-700 in top shape.

Tom Glavine #92 – Like Maddux, Tom Glavine was already establishing himself as an ace in 1987 before winning two Cy Youngs of his own. The duo’s strong careers and the scarcity of high grade 1987 Topps rookie cards push Glavine’s value to $700-750.

Ken Griffey Jr. #151 – The smooth swinging “Junior” was already dazzling fans in 1987 at age 17. He went on to smash 630 career home runs and win 10 Gold Gloves. His iconic 1987 Topps rookie in PSA 10 condition now sells for $800-850.

Barry Bonds #660 Error – Only a small handful of the elusive upside down photo error of Barry Bonds are known to exist. Considered the true “crown jewel” for Bonds collectors, one specimen graded PSA 10MINT sold for an astounding $1 million at auction in 2021.

Frank Thomas #630 – Already a force as a rookie in 1987, “The Big Hurt” Frank Thomas won back-to-back AL MVPs in the 1990s. His smooth left-handed swing and Hall of Fame career make his 1987 Topps rookie extremely valuable at $900-950 in top condition.

Mark McGwire #234 Error – Like the Bonds and Clemens errors, only a small number of the ultra-rare upside down photo error of Mark McGwire exist. One in PSA 10 condition was sold privately for over $1.2 million in 2018, showing its immense rarity and demand.

Ken Griffey Jr. #151 Error – Only about 10 examples are known of the elusive Griffey Jr. error card where his photo is sideways. Considered the true crown jewel for any Griffey collector, one specimen graded PSA 10 sold for $2.88 million at auction in 2021, setting a new record.

Nolan Ryan #690 Error – Even rarer than the Griffey error, possibly fewer than 5 copies exist of the Nolan Ryan error card where his photo is sideways. A true “holy grail” for any sports card collection, one graded PSA 10 sold privately in 2020 for an astounding $3.12 million.

Roger Clemens #660 Error – The most valuable regular issue card, an upside down Clemens photo error in PSA 10 condition was sold privately in 2017 for $3.5 million, showing its immense rarity and demand from Clemens collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. #151 Error – The undisputed king of 1987 Topps, possibly only 2-3 examples are known to exist of the ultra-rare sideways photo Ken Griffey Jr. error card. A true sports collecting treasure, one in PSA 10 condition was sold privately in 2021 for a record-breaking $5.2 million, cementing it as the most valuable baseball card of all-time based on a public record.

While not the flashiest or most popular set overall, the 1987 Topps baseball cards contained some of the biggest stars and most valuable rookie cards ever due to certain ultra-rare photo errors. Players like Ken Griffey Jr., Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, and Nolan Ryan hold incredibly scarce and desirable cards that have shattered sports collecting records. Condition and scarcity drive the enormous values, making the 1987 Topps set one of the most intriguing in the modern era.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is widely considered one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of the sports card industry. Featuring artwork by renowned illustrator Dick Perez and marking Donruss’ return to the baseball card market after a brief hiatus, the ’87 Donruss set helped kick off a baseball card boom that lasted throughout much of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

With 762 total cards and featuring every major league player, the 1987 Donruss set had widespread appeal among collectors both young and old. What made these cards especially enticing was the photorealistic style used by Perez, who sought to depict each player as accurately as possible through careful pen-and-ink renderings. This realistic approach helped the players truly jump off the card in a way that hadn’t really been seen before.

At the time of its release in 1987, Donruss distribution methods were still somewhat limited. Unlike giants like Topps who had national deals, Donruss cards could mainly be found in local hobby shops, drug stores, and card shows. This gave the brand a bit of an underground, exclusive appeal. Savvy collectors quickly realized these cards would become highly sought after in the future.

A major development for the collectibles industry occurred in the late 1980s with the rise of third-party authentication and grading services like PSA. Founded in 1991, PSA would help transform the hobby by instituting standardized grading scales and slabbing cards to deter tampering. Many view 1988-1992 as the peak years for the PSA-labeled boom.

While PSA became the dominant force, other companies like SGC also emerged to meet rising authentication demand. This new focus on grading fostered intense competition to land high-grade vintage and pre-war tobacco cards, as a PSA-labeled gem mint was sure to shatter auction records. Naturally, modern star rookies also took off as speculative frenzies formed around graded examples.

The 1987 Donruss set was perfectly positioned to cash in on this authentication boom. With its realistic artwork and widespread distribution from the prior year, these cards were a natural target for collectors to submit for grading. In the early PSA population reports, ’87 Donruss issues consistently ranked among the most frequently seen submissions of the modern era.

Graded examples of star rookies like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Bobby Bonilla rocketed to amazing prices as speculation soared. Bonds rookies in particular emerged as some of the most coveted and valuable modern sports cards. Meanwhile, near-pristine examples of set mainstays like Don Mattingly, Wade Boggs, and Kirby Puckett achieved previously unthinkable values.

Beyond the rookie class, the 1987 Donruss set is also renowned for capturing some iconic players and moments. Cards of Ozzie Smith backflipping, Eric Davis robbing a home run, and Nolan Ryan’s expressive windup started gaining icon status within the collecting community. High-grade versions of these artistic renderings became impossible to pry away once slabbed and labeled.

While the card bubble would burst in the mid-1990s, interest in 1987 Donruss issues has remained remarkably strong. These iconic cards helped usher in the modern era of sports card collecting and investing. They also captured the sport at the peak of 1980s excitement, when superstar sluggers like McGwire and Canseco were just emerging.

To this day, new discoveries of pristine 1987 Donruss star rookies or insert variants in attics and basements can still make headlines. An example is the recent unearthing of a PSA 10 Barry Bonds rookie, which sold at auction in 2022 for over $360,000. Such occurrences underscore how this seminal set continues capturing imaginations decades later.

The rise of grading and the growth of population databases fueled non-stop speculation. But the 1987 Donruss set persevered due to its combination of iconic imagery, historic subject matter, and the artistic achievements of Dick Perez. These factors coalesced to create one of the true “apex” sets that defined the modern sports card boom era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Their impact is still being felt generations later.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set is considered by many collectors and experts to be one of the iconic modern baseball card issues released during the sport’s boom period of the 1980s and early 1990s. With its colorful photography and crisp designs, the ’87 Fleer set captured the imagination of kids and adults alike at the time. Now several decades later, these cards remain popular with collectors and have developed a strong market presence.

For collectors wanting to verify the condition and grade of their 1987 Fleer baseball cards, sending them to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) has become a standard practice. Founded in 2000, PSA utilizes state-of-the-art technology and employs a staff of expert graders to authenticate, grade, and encapsulate trading cards, autographs, autograph memorabilia and other collectibles. Their established reputation for consistency, accuracy, and integrity has made PSA the most trusted third-party grading service in the collectibles industry.

The sheer popularity of the 1987 Fleer issue over the decades means there are thousands upon thousands of these cards that have crossed grading desks at PSA headquarters in California. Collectors look to PSA slabs as the definitive statement on condition and quality, which directly impacts the value and demand for high-grade examples from this legendary set. Let’s take a closer look at some key things to know about PSA grading of 1987 Fleer baseball cards:

Gem Mint Condition Cards are Rare – Coming out of packs over 30 years ago, very few 1987 Fleer cards survived in perfect Mint or Near Mint condition. In fact, PSA has only graded a tiny fraction as the coveted Mint 9 or Gem Mint 10 status. Things like centering, corners and edges stood little chance of remaining flawless for so long. A PSA 10 1987 Fleer card is a true treasure.

Top Rated Cards Command Big Money – Whether it’s a star player rookie or a key subset, PSA 9 and PSA 10 examples of 1987 Fleer cards pull in the largest prices on the collector market. A PSA 10 Ozzie Smith Freak rookie can sell for over $10,000 USD. Superstar rookies like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire at a PSA 9+ also carry premiums in the thousands. Condition is king when it comes to value.

8.5 is the New 9 – For vintage cards from the 1980s like 1987 Fleer, a PSA 8.5 grade is increasingly seen by savvy collectors and sellers as the equivalent of a “near-mint” 9. PSA 8.5s while still graded “Excellent” command nearly the same demand as 9s, especially for higher end cards. The tiny condition differences are negligible to end users and a PSA 8.5 serves as a more attainable collecting target.

Cracking Issues Affect Grade – The fragile and brittle cardboard stock used in 1980s card production means examples often suffer from cracking along edges, known as “creases.” PSA is very strict on creasing based on their numerical criteria and won’t upgrade a card higher than an 8 due to cracking flaws. Modern pressing techniques by some have helped improve grades in certain cases though.

Authenticating is Key – With so many reprints and counterfeit versions of coveted 1987 Fleer cards floating around today, PSA authentication is invaluable. Their reputation and holder lend certainty that what’s inside is real, not forged or rebacked. Bad fakes pull the rug on assumed value, so PSA gives peace of mind against reproductions diluting the market. In short, “It’s real, in the slab.”

While PSA 10 1987 Fleer baseball cards are truly rare, there are still plenty of high quality PSA 9s or 8.5s around to collect across different player tiers and hobby budgets. Condition is paramount in the vintage card market and PSA third-party grading sets the standard in preserving value over the long term. Whether building a full ’87 Fleer set, team collection, or chasing star rookies and parallels, PSA certification provides authentication and condition assurances prized by collectors.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED PACK

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered a classic among collectors and holds significant nostalgia for those who remember opening packs as children in the late 80s. Although not the most valuable set in the hobby, finding an unopened 1987 Topps pack today still holds thrill and excitement for collectors thanks to the mystery of what cards could be hiding inside. Let’s take a deeper look at these beloved cards and what finding an unopened pack from 1987 could mean for collectors today.

The 1987 Topps set was the 66th series of Topps baseball cards released and marked several milestones. It was the first year cards were issued with the new 1 3/8″ x 2 1/2″ size that remains the standard in the industry today. The set totaled 792 cards and included rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Tom Glavine, Craig Biggio, and Jeff Bagwell. It also included the final cards issued for retiring legends like Pete Rose, Jim Palmer, and Steve Garvey.

Inside each wax pack from 1987, collectors could find 11 randomly inserted cardboard trading cards. The front of each card featured a color photo of a player in action along with their name, team, and statistics. The back provided more stats and a short career summary. Topps used this same basic template for decades, helping younger collectors easly transition to the hobby. Each 1987 Topps pack retailed for $1, a price point that helped the brand reach mainstream popularity.

Although not extremely valuable graded and on the secondary market today, 1987 Topps cards retain nostalgia because they represent childhood memories for a generation of fans and players who are now in their 40s and 50s. Finding an unopened pack time-warped to 1987 presents the excitement of not knowing which future stars or franchise faces may be revealed inside. Will there be a rookie fantasy pick? A favorite player? An error card? It’s the mystery that keeps collectors of all ages hunting for vintage sealed wax to this day.

The odds of finding an intact 1987 Topps unopened pack are low due to the set being over 30 years old. There are a few ways they surface occasionally. Some were purchased at release but forgotten about in attics or storage units for decades. Occasionally a former player or staff member from the 80s will put memorabilia up for sale, including sealed product. Industry insiders also buy out collections including unopened wax to later resell. Whenever one hits the market, it draws worldwide attention from collectors hoping for a blast from the past.

Graded gem mint 10 1987 Topps unopened wax recently sold on eBay for over $1,000, showing there is strong demand among enthusiasts when a sealed pack surfaces. But most find their way to PWCC Marketplace or Classic Auctions for thousands of dollars. Condition is key, as a worn pack with rounded edges will be considerably less valuable. Even lower grade wax holds value just for the opportunity to live out the 1987 experience again of not knowing which legends may emerge.

Besides the thrill of the vintage hunt, 1987 Topps packs remain desirable because the set is considered the apex of 1980s design with classic airbrushed photography and vibrant colors. Stats aren’t inflated and many stars were still in their primes. The timeless design also makes the cards easily recognizeable to modern collectors just starting out. For these reasons, finding an unsealed pack is like unwrapping a time capsule that immediately transports collectors back over 30 years.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set will always be beloved for capturing the tail end of a legendary era in the game. Finding an unopened wax pack presents a special experience that can’t truly be replicated. The mystery of the random insert combined nostalgia for simpler times is part of what fuels the hobby. As long as collectors remain, the chase for vintage sealed 1987 Topps will continue as one of the holy grails of the set.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 baseball card season featured some of the most iconic rookie cards and veteran stars from that era. While 1987 may not be among the most highly sought after vintage years, it did produce several cards that have grown enormously in value over the past few decades. For collectors looking to add some valuable 80s cardboard to their collections, here are some of the most noteworthy 1987 baseball cards to consider:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (Upper Deck #1) – Widely considered one of if not the highest valued 1987 baseball card, Griffey’s rookie UD card has been a steady climber in price in recent years. As one of the most beloved players of his generation and a true five-tool phenom, the demand for Griffey’s first card has never waned. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples routinely fetch well into the five-figure price range, with PSA 9s also commanding thousands. Even in raw ungraded condition, pristine copies can sell for $500+ due to Griffey’s iconic rookie status and popularity. This legendary card set the standard for the modern baseball card rookie phenom.

Roberto Alomar Rookie (Donruss #156) – Much like Griffey, Alomar’s elite all-around play and 12-time All-Star career has kept interest high in his rookie card decades after the fact. The sharp horizontal Donruss design pairs well with a photo showing Alomar’s smooth fielding skills. Graded PSA 10 specimens are valued north of $2,000, with PSA 9s still selling for four figures. Raw copies in mint condition still hold value in the $100-200 range thanks to Alomar’s Hall of Fame caliber career. This is one of the more affordable options for a true star’s rookie from the late 80s market.

Griffey Jr. Rookie (Fleer #418) – While not his most iconic issue, Griffey’s solo rookie appearance in 1987 Fleer holds nostalgic appeal due to being so scarce in higher grades. Pristine PSA 10 examples have cracked five figures, far outpacing the regular Fleer set. Even PSA 9s hover around $1,000 due to rarity. Locating a true gem copy will require diligent searching. The off-center alignment of many Fleer ’87s have prevented this card from reaching Upper Deck levels, but it remains highly valued in the Griffey rookie collecting world.

Barry Bonds Rookie (Topps Traded #T26) – Before Bonds became known as the game’s all-time home run king and controversial PED figure, he was one of baseball’s finest young outfielders tearing up the Pirates in the late 80s. His late-season call-up rookie card from Topps Traded, while not scarce, nonetheless features the five-time MVP in Pirates gold and remains one of his most iconic early issues. Pristine PSA 10 copies have reached up to $800, with PSA 9s still commanding three figures. Raw near-mint examples are very affordable starting around $20-30 for collectors seeking a piece of baseball history at a budget price.

Bo Jackson Rookie (Bowman #1) – Regarded as one of the greatest pure athletes of all time due to his dual NFL/MLB career, Jackson’s rookie baseball card has grown steadily in demand in recent years. Printed on high-gloss stock by Bowman, it depicts Bo swinging amidst streaks suggesting his blinding speed. PSA 10s have cracked four figures, while flawless PSA 9s still pull five-digit bids. Even well-centered raw near-mint examples can sell in the $100+ range, a testament to Jackson’s athletic mystique and the allure of a true dual-sport pioneer’s first card.

Mark McGwire Rookie (Topps Traded #T20) – With a swing that would one day shatter baseball’s single-season home run record, McGwire got his first cardboard in a 1987 Topps Traded release shown clouting a towering blast for the A’s. The imposing slugger would go on to hit 335 career home runs over 12 seasons before his admitted PED usage later in his career. Pristine PSA 10 copies eclipse $1,000 in value, and PSA 9s still attract bids over $500. Even well-centered raw examples hold worth starting at $50-100 given McGwire’s prodigious early power and notoriety.

Tom Glavine Rookie (Donruss #78) – An elite left-handed starter who would go on to capture two Cy Young Awards and 305 career wins, Glavine has developed a strong following among rookie card collectors. His lanky delivery is captured smoothly in his Donruss rookie. Pristine PSA 10 copies command over $400, with PSA 9s in the $150 range. Locating a high-grade Glavine rookie isn’t easy but it represents an accessible option for a true Hall of Famer’s first card from the late 80s market.

Kirby Puckett Rookie (Topps Traded #T73) – As a six-time All-Star and beloved Twins great, Puckett’s rookie from Topps Traded evokes nostalgia from fans of 1980s Minnesota baseball. Whether shagging flies in the alley or lofting line drives, Puckett displayed all his tools in this early issue. Pristine PSA 10 specimens fetch over $500, while PSA 9 gold mine examples sell for $150-200 range. Clean raw copies hold value starting at the $50-75 level given Puckett’s iconic status in Twins history before his tragic early passing.

Roberto Clemente Final Card (Fleer Update #U9) – Sadly, this would prove to be the final baseball card produced of Roberto Clemente before his tragic death in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while assisting earthquake relief efforts. The legendary Pirates star and 15-time All-Star is shown rounding third base with his graceful running style. Pristine PSA 10s have reached over $3,000, though most sell under $1,000. Well-centered raw examples still hold worth over $100 for collectors wanting a piece of one of the games greatest humanitarians and players.

Steve Avery Rookie (Fleer Update #U10) – One of baseball’s top young left-handers of the early 1990s, Avery won 18 games and made his only All-Star team as a 21-year-old Brave in 1991. His flowing delivery is captured with promise in his sparse 1987 Fleer Update rookie. High grades PSA 10 and 9 can reach $200 and $100 respectively, showing staying power for a quality starter’s earliest issue from the vintage period.

This covers some of the most notable high-dollar 1987 baseball cards to pursue for any collector looking to add valuable pieces from the 1980s era to their collection. While other options exist, these selections feature a mix of all-time great players, popular hometown heroes, and young stars on the verge of breakouts. With strong demand sustained for decades, 1987 produced many cards that remain worthwhile long-term holds for appreciating assets from the heyday of the vintage sports card market.

1987 BASEBALL CARDS FLEER

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was the second year Fleer held the license to produce Major League Baseball cards after taking over the rights from Topps. The set featured 598 total cards and was one of the more popular and iconic releases of the late 1980s.

For 1987, Fleer opted to go with white borders on most cards, switching from the gray borders used for their 1986 debut set. The design featured player names arched across the top with their team name below in reverse color. At the bottom was the Fleer logo as well as copyright information. Overall the cards had a clean aesthetic that provided a contrast from Topps’ more colorful designs of the era.

One of the notable aspects of the 1987 Fleer set was the inclusion of retired Hall of Famer cards at the very end of the base series numbering. Cards #599-#607 paid homage to legends like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron. While not true rookie cards, these stamped a seal of approval on some of baseball’s greatest to ever play. Collectors loved finding these iconic legends mixed in with the current season’s players.

Rookie cards in 1987 included future Hall of Famers like Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, and Frank Thomas. McGwire’s first Fleer card #463 quickly became a key card for collectors. In the late 1980s and early 90s, before McGwire’s home run chase, his rookie fetched around $5-10. Today a mint condition 1987 Mark McGwire rookie in a PSA 10 gem mint slab can sell for over $10,000.

Beyond the base cards, Fleer also issued 87 different factory set and parallel variations including gold, silver, and bronze foil cards. They even produced mini leather football sized cards as a promotional item. The gold parallel cards were extremely scarce initially printed but are quite affordable today. Other key parallels include the 1987 Fleer Update set featuring mid-season call-ups like Cal Ripken Jr and additional stars.

In terms of team distribution, the 1987 Fleer set heavily featured the dominant New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and St. Louis Cardinals of the late 1980s. Players like Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry, Roger Clemens, and Ozzie Smith appeared frequently across the base set and inserts. The Fleer philosophy at the time seemed to be highlighting some of baseball’s biggest stars and teams each year which gave the sets broad appeal among collectors.

One lower number card that became highly desired was #8 Tony Gwynn of the San Diego Padres. Gwynn went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his 1987 Fleer rookie, while not quite as iconic McGwire’s, now carries a premium compared to most other non-rookie cards in the base set. Condition is also extremely important, with a PSA 10 example selling for over $2,000 today. Other singles that have increased in value due to player achievement include Bo Jackson #337, Frank Thomas #479, and Ken Griffey Jr. #551.

The 1987 Fleer set had an interesting mixture of proven veterans, familiar young stars, and future legends still emerging that captured the varied talent levels across the major leagues at the mid-1980s. Even more than 30 years later, collectors still enjoy putting together complete rain sets to experience this “window” of baseball history first hand. While not quite as expensive as flagship releases from Topps, 1987 Fleer cards remain readily available in the hobby at affordable levels for most budgets. The classic designs have also ensured they remain a staple in today’s market.

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was a pivotal installment that defined late 1980s collecting while also looking ahead showcasing talented rookies. Between the mix of stars, parallels, and Hall of Famers included, it succeeded in establishing Fleer as a serious competitor to Topps’ long-held monopoly. The combination of design, player selection, and affordability have kept 1987 Fleer an engaging set for collectors both casual and serious to this day.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1987 FLEER

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most historically significant issues in the entire hobby. Not only did it feature rookies of future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, but the set design and photographic quality was a huge improvement over previous years. The ’87 Fleer cards really captured the imagination of young collectors at the time. Over 30 years later, many of these cards have grown to become incredibly valuable, largely due to the success and fame of the players featured. Here are some of the most valuable and sought after ’87 Fleer baseball cards:

Ken Griffey Jr. RC (#156) – Widely considered the greatest rookie card of all time due to Griffey’s career accomplishments and popularity, mint condition copies of his ’87 Fleer RC routinely sell for well over $10,000. The sharp, vibrant photography of a young Griffey swinging a bat truly stands out compared to other cards of the era. Any copy grading a Gem Mint 10 is worth a minimum of $25,000 but has sold for upwards of $100,000 before. The card captured lightning in a bottle by featuring a future superstar and likely future Hall of Famer right at the start of his career.

Greg Maddux RC (#181) – As one of the greatest pitchers ever and a true student of the game, Maddux’s rookie card from his first major league season with the Cubs is a highly coveted piece. Near Mint-Mint 8 copies can sell for $1,000-2,000 but a True Gem Mint 10 graded card has reached $10,000 at auction. Maddux went on to win 4 Cy Young Awards and dominate for two decades in the big leagues.

Tom Glavine RC (#432) – Like Maddux, Glavine has since been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame for an illustrious career primarily with the Atlanta Braves. His ’87 Fleer RC isn’t quite as valuable as Maddux’s since Glavine wasn’t as dominant a pitcher, but pristine Mint 9-10 copies can still command $500-1,000 due to his fame and accomplishment.

Barry Bonds (#391) – Arguably one of the greatest players ever statistically, Bonds’ rookie card from his early Pirates days holds appeal from collectors. But the card is still relatively affordable, with Mint copies selling in the $50-100 range even after Bonds’ entire career. The steroid controversy that has defined his post-playing reputation has limited the card’s value.

Mark McGwire (#593) – As one of the pioneers of the steroid era who hit monumental home run milestones, McGwire’s rookie has found new interest in recent years. Near Mint 8.5 copies can sell for $150-250.

Wally Joyner (#615) – Not a true superstar, but Joyner had several solid MLB seasons and his ’87 Fleer RC has become quite scarce in high grades. A True Gem Mint 10 recently achieved $990 despite Joyner’s fairly average career overall. The rarity factor drove the price for this card.

Roberto Alomar (#705) – A Hall of Fame second baseman most known for his career with the Blue Jays, Alomar’s RC has risen to $50-100 for Near Mint copies thanks to his legendary defense and hitting skills.

Tom Herr (#154) – A true oddball selection, Herr played only 33 games in the majors in 1987 and had an otherwise unremarkable career. His ’87 Fleer RC has become the set’s flagship “short print” due to its extraordinarily low production numbers. Just a handful are known to exist, and one Mint 9 copy achieved a world record price for any ’87 Fleer card at $25,000 in recent years due to its great rarity status.

The 1987 Fleer baseball cards were innovatively designed and featured future stars, Hall of Famers, and short prints that have all led to strong collector demand and escalating values over the decades. For vintage card investors, high grade copies of stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Greg Maddux, and Roberto Alomar offer a proven way to hold valuable collectibles in a portfolio. The designs have really stood the test of time in capturing the nostalgia and magic of the players from that era. It’s easy to see why ’87 Fleer remains such a landmark set nearly 35 years later.

BEST 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the 1980s. With 792 total cards, the ’87 Topps set featured many of the game’s biggest stars from that era and included several highly sought after rookie cards. While not quite as renowned as the iconic 1952 Topps or 1968 Topps sets, 1987 Topps cards hold a special place in the hearts of many collectors due to the talented players featured and memorable designs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most noteworthy cards and storylines from this classic Topps release.

Perhaps the headliner of the ’87 Topps set is card #1 – Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox. Widely considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Clemens was in his prime during the late 1980s and would go on to win the American League Cy Young Award in 1986 and 1987. His ’87 Topps card shows “The Rocket” mid-windup with his signature high leg kick. The card’s iconic image and subject matter make it one of the most desirable in the set and it routinely fetches hundreds of dollars in high-grade.

Another superstar pitcher featured prominently is Orel Hershiser of the Los Angeles Dodgers on card #198. In 1988, Hershiser would put together one of the greatest seasons by a pitcher in MLB history by posting a 2.26 ERA and setting a new record with 59 consecutive scoreless innings. His ’87 issue portrays “Bulldog” in the windup for the Dodgers and is a must-have for Dodgers and 80s card collectors. Like Clemens, graded high copies can sell for well over $100.

Rookie cards are always a big draw for collectors and the ’87 Topps set included debut issues for several future Hall of Famers. Perhaps the most storied is card #340 featuring a young Ken Griffey Jr. donning the iconic Mariners silky uniform. Griffey would go on to have a legendary 22-year career and is considered one of the most talented outfielders in MLB history. High-grade Griffey Jr. rookies in the $100-200 range are fairly common today, but mint copies can fetch thousands due to his popularity and on-field success.

Another outstanding rookie is #432 Tim Raines of the Montreal Expos, known as “Rock.” Raines went on to a stellar 23-year career primarily with the Expos and White Sox and was one of the game’s premier base stealers, swiping 808 bags in his career. His electric speed and slick defensive skills made him a fan favorite. Raines’ rookie card remains quite affordable even in top-grade, selling for $50-100.

Card #451 marks the debut of slugging first baseman Mark McGwire playing for the Oakland A’s. Little did collectors know at the time that “Big Mac” would go on to smash the single-season home run record. His prodigious power and memorable home run chase with Sammy Sosa in 1998 make McGwire one of the most iconic players of the 1990s steroid era. High-quality versions of his rookie card can fetch $300-500 today.

Another highly sought after rookie is #592 featuring pitcher Tom Glavine in an Atlanta Braves uniform. Glavine would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Braves, winning 305 games and two Cy Young Awards. He was the ace of the dominant Braves rotations in the 1990s that won 14 straight division titles. Glavine’s rookie remains one of the more affordable stars from the ’87 set at $50-150 graded.

In addition to star rookies, the ’87 issue featured many established veterans and other young talent like Will Clark on card #99, Bo Jackson on #222, Barry Larkin on #254, and Randy Johnson on #678. The designs were classic Topps with solid photography and a clean white border. Overall condition of the set is above average for 1980s cardboard.

The 1987 Topps baseball set holds a hallowed place in the hobby for good reason. Not only did it capture the games’ biggest talent of that era in their prime, but it also distributed invaluable rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr, Glavine, and Raines. For collectors, assembling this entire 792-card set in high-quality remains a very challenging and rewarding long-term project. Examples of the top rookie and star cards will always be in high demand and hold value due to the talent featured and memorable photography from one of the greatest years in the sport.