Tag Archives: 1987

TOPPS 1987 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was released during an era of change for both the baseball card and major league baseball industries. Topps released their standard 792 card set in 1987 that highlighted players from all 26 Major League Baseball teams at the time. This set is notable for several reasons, including the debut of future Hall of Famers, the introduction of new photography techniques, and capturing a period of labor disputes that threatened the upcoming season.

One of the most significant aspects of the 1987 Topps set was that it featured rookie cards for a highly touted group of players who would go on to have outstanding careers. This included future Hall of Famers such as Mark McGwire (card #312), Greg Maddux (card #375), and Tom Glavine (card #470). While none of these rookies made an immediate impact in 1987, collectors recognized their future potential and these cards have substantially increased in value over the past few decades. Of particular note is McGwire’s rookie card, as he would go on to hit a then-record 70 home runs in 1998 and establish himself as one of the game’s most feared power hitters.

Beyond strong rookie talent, the 1987 set featured established stars who were entering their prime such as Wade Boggs (card #22), Ozzie Smith (card #119), and Tim Raines (card #360). Raines in particular was coming off a season where he led the National League in stolen bases, batting average, and on-base percentage in 1986. His impressive performance helped make his Topps card more desirable to collectors at the time compared to earlier in his career. Other seasoned veterans with significant cards in the 1987 set included Mike Schmidt (card #58), George Brett (card #73), and Tony Gwynn (card #488).

From a photography standpoint, the 1987 Topps set began experimenting with new techniques and card designs. For the first time, Topps incorporated action shots and posed photos on the same card surface. Prior to 1987, sets generally contained either action photography or posed portraits consistently throughout. By blending the two styles, Topps was able to provide more visual variety for collectors. Closer cropping sizes and experimentation with off-centered posed shots brought more dynamism to card designs. While not a radical departure, these modest adjustments reflected Topps’ effort to keep traditions while gradually modernizing its seminal baseball card product.

Behind the scenes, the baseball industry was in a state of flux entering the 1987 season that had ramifications for Topps and its card release. Major League Baseball was dealing with ongoing labor disputes between team owners and players that threatened to cancel the season. This culminated in a two-week spring training lockout that delayed the start of the regular season. As a result, Topps went to print without finalized team rosters or knowledge of late offseason transactions. Some cards ended up featuring players on the wrong teams or missing players who were traded right before the season. While a blemish, it captured the turmoil surrounding the sport at that moment in time.

Once the season commenced, stars like Andre Dawson (card #256) and Don Mattingly (card #527) led their teams to division titles. Others such as Eric Davis (card #208) and Mark McGwire posted breakout seasons. For collectors at the time, following the 1987 rookie class and that year’s top performers held great interest, especially with questions around whether the labor issues would permanently damage the game. Topps’ release benefited from spotlighting a season that restored stability and saw talented young cores develop across MLB.

In the decades since, the 1987 Topps set has gained esteem among collectors for documenting a crossover period. Future Hall of Fame careers launched alongside established stars and labor discord captured the dynamics shaping the game. Key rookie cards like McGwire’s have appreciated tremendously, while stars of the era remain widely sought after. The photos blending action and portraits previewed evolution also within Topps’ production. The 1987 set endures for commemorating a year when unknown potential emerged and challenges threatened baseball’s prosperity anew each day, as ever does within its story.

MOST VALUABLE 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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One of the most highly sought after and valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey Jr. would go on to have an iconic career in MLB as one of the best all-around players and arguably the most exciting player of his generation. His smooth left-handed swing and graceful all-around athleticism made him a fan favorite. Even as a rookie in 1987, it was evident he had superstar potential. In near mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s 1987 Topps rookie card can fetch thousands of dollars, with gem mint examples sometimes bringing in over $10,000. Given his career achievements and legacy as one of the greats, interest and demand for this card remain very strong despite the decades since it was issued.

Another hugely valuable card from the 1987 Topps set is the Mark McGwire rookie card. Like Griffey Jr., McGwire would prove to be one of the game’s most prolific home run hitters and his prowess for hitting mammoth home runs endeared him to many fans. He broke the single season home run record in 1998, a record that stood for over a decade until it was broken again by Griffey Jr.’s teammate Barry Bonds. The nostalgia and history attached to McGwire’s rookie card, coupled with his playing accomplishments, make it a true gem in any collection. High quality examples in NM-MT condition often sell for $4,000 or more online.

Aside from star rookie cards, there are also key cards featuring established players that retain impressive value from the ’87 Topps set. Perhaps most notable is the Nolan Ryan card (#120). At the time, Ryan was already established as one of the elite strikeout pitchers in baseball history and held numerous career pitching records. But his mystique and the awe surrounding his 100+ MPH fastball made any Ryan card a highly sought after piece, and his ’87 Topps card remains a standout to this day. Especially in pristine mint condition, it can sell for over $500. Another pitcher who appears on a valuable ’87 Topps card is Roger Clemens on card #91. By 1987, “Rocket” Roger was well on his way to a spectacular career and his intimidating stare down on this issue captures his fierce competitive fire. high grade Clemens rookies have been known to sell in the $400 range.

Aside from future Hall of Fame sluggers and hurlers, there are also key star cards in the 1987 set that maintain lofty values. One is the Ryne Sandberg card on #164. At the time, “Ryno” was a perennial All-Star and arguably the best second baseman in baseball. He collected over 200 hits in four straight seasons from 1983-1986 showcasing why he was so dependable and feared at the plate. His smooth, line-drive stroke is captured on his ’87 issue. In top condition it often sells between $150-200. Another steady offensive force highlighted in the set is Tim Raines on card #73. “Rock” was among the game’s premier leadoff hitters and base stealers throughout the 1980s. He could do it all on the basepaths and as a batter. In pristine condition, his ’87 Topps card fetches over $100.

Aside from stars, there are also key rookie cards of solid major leaguers that hold value in the ’87 Topps issue. Players such as Randy Johnson on card #350, Tom Glavine on #592, and David Justice on #443 occasionally sell in the $50-75 range when in gem mint condition, as they went on to have productive MLB careers. Even more obscure major leaguers who had short careers but with intriguing rookie cards can catch the eye of collectors if in top shape, such as relief pitcher Bobby Thigpen on card #479. His iconic windup pose generates interest.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set remains a highly collectible vintage issue prized by investors and nostalgic baseball fans alike. Headlined by the spectacular rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Griffey Jr. and McGwire, it features photography and designs that captured the players and era beautifully. Even after 35+ years, the finest quality examples of star players from that set continually hold strong demand and financial value for knowledgeable collectors. With its place in baseball card history, allure of stars from that time, and overall sharp cards, the 1987 Topps set earns a spot among the most coveted issues in the hobby.

1987 HIGHLIGHTS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most well-known and highly collectible issues from the 1980s. While it did not feature any true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, the ’87 Topps set provides a nostalgic look back at some of baseball’s biggest stars from that era. Cards from this set hold value for collectors decades later due to the memorable players featured and the popular design Topps used that year.

One of the defining aspects of the 1987 Topps cards is the ‘highlights’ format they used for the player photography. Rather than the standard headshots collectors had become used to, Topps opted to make the focal point of each card an action photo highlighting a signature moment or play from that player’s career. This gave the ’87 issue a memorable visual style that resonated with collectors. While a controversial change at the time, the highlights photos are now widely considered one of the best design aspects of the entire set.

Some specific ’87 Topps highlights cards that routinely fetch strong prices in the current vintage baseball market include standout rookie cards like Mark McGwire’s (#391) and Lenny Dykstra’s (#422). McGwire’s rookie in particular can sell for over $100 in top-graded Gem Mint condition due to his future Hall of Fame career and his connection to the late ’90s home run era. Dykstra’s rookie also holds value as he went on to have an impressive career as a hitter and center fielder known by his nickname “Nails.”

Other high-value highlights cards from the ’87 Topps issue focus on the biggest stars of the day like Don Mattingly (#113), Wade Boggs (#153), and Roger Clemens (#383). Mattingly’s card often exceeds $50 due to his status as one of the 1980s’ premier hitters for the Yankees. Boggs, known for his stellar batting average and base-running prowess, routinely sees his ’87 Topps card trade hands north of $30. And Clemens, a dominant pitcher who won multiple Cy Young awards in the 1980s and beyond, commands $40-plus for his ’87 highlights issue card.

Condition is crucial when determining the value of any vintage card, and that is certainly true for ’87 Topps cards. Higher graded examples like Mint 9 or Gem Mint 10 can often be exponentially more valuable than lower graded copies in Fair or Good condition. Due to the huge print run of the set during the height of the baseball card boom era, lower grade ’87 Topps cards are still quite attainable and affordable for most collectors if they are seeking certain favorite players from that time period. Focusing on acquiring and holding well-centered, eye-appealing examples can help protect an investment even at lower condition grades like Very Good or Excellent.

Rookie highlights cards of players like Ron Gant (#537), Gregg Jefferies (#447), and Ken Griffey Jr. (#440) also hold collector interest, albeit with much more modest values compared to the stars of the era. Still, pristine MT10 examples of these mid-80s rookie debuts can often sell in the $20-40 range depending on the player’s career achievements. And on the lower end, common veterans from the set provide an affordable doorway into vintage collecting, with cards of the likes of Rick Sutcliffe (#169) and Lee Smith (#504) readily available in about $1-3 range across most conditions.

While not the most valuable set from the junk wax era that followed, the 1987 Topps baseball issues remain an iconic look back at the sport during that period. Modern collectors appreciate the nostalgia of the memorable action photography style coupled with the excitement of sporting favorite players from their childhoods. Top rookie talents like McGwire and Dykstra anchor the high-value ends of the price spectrum, while many other star-studded highlights cards from Mattingly, Boggs, and Clemens fill out the steady mid-range valuations. Condition sensitive but still accessible across all levels, the ’87 Topps baseballs cards retain an authentic appeal that speaks to both vintage collectors and fans of 1980s baseball today.

1987 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Topps Traded baseball card set showcased some of baseball’s biggest stars and hottest rookies that were traded or dealt in that season. Unlike the flagship Topps base set, the Traded set focused exclusively on players who found themselves on a new team via trade or waiver deal. With only 86 cards in the set, it contained many iconic and valuable cards worth far more today than their original retail prices.

Perhaps the most notable and valuable card in the entire 1987 Topps Traded set is card number T1 – Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros. At the time, Ryan was still one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers at age 40 and had just been traded from the Mets to the Astros before the 1987 season. His Traded card shows him in an Astros uniform for the first and only time. In near mint condition, the Ryan T1 card can fetch prices up to $450 or more due to his legendary status and the scarcity of highly graded copies still around today.

Another extremely coveted and valuable card is T5 – Ozzie Smith of the St. Louis Cardinals. Many collectors and fans consider Smith to be the greatest defensive shortstop of all time. His Traded card was one of the first to show him as a Cardinal after being part of one of the largest player trades in MLB history that offseason. High grade Ozzie Smith T5 cards can sell for over $250.

Two other valuable rookie cards found in the 1987 Topps Traded set include T15 – Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s and T82 – Jose Canseco also of the A’s. Both McGwire and Canseco went on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers and helped power the A’s dynasty teams of the late 80s and early 90s. Near mint or better grades of their rookie Traded cards frequently trade hands for $100 to $150 each due to their first appearance in an A’s uniform and tremendous importance to baseball card collectors and investors.

Remaining stars whose Traded cards hold value include T3 – Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox ($75-$100 NM), T4 – Wade Boggs also of the Red Sox ($50+ NM), T6 – George Brett of the Kansas City Royals ($50+ NM), T7 – Mike Schmidt of the Philadelphia Phillies ($40+ NM), T10 – Fernando Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Dodgers ($30+ NM), T19 – Dwight Gooden of the New York Mets ($25+ NM), and T61 – Dave Henderson of the Boston Red Sox ($25+ NM).

All told, there are around a dozen cards in the 1987 Topps Traded set with reasonable valuations starting at $25 or more for higher graded near mint or mint condition copies. The true holy grails are the previously mentioned Ryan, Smith, McGwire and Canseco rookie cards worth upwards of $100-$450 each in top condition due to strong, consistent collector demand.

The distinctiveness and overall quality of photography and design featured on Topps Traded cards from the 1980s make them a beloved niche within the larger umbrella of baseball cards from that era. Because they solely spotlighted newly acquired stars on different clubs, they captured pivotal career moments in unique uniform debuts. They remain a favorite among not only players collectors but also fans curious to see legends from seasons past on new ballclubs before they further cemented their legacies. While the initial print run numbers are unknown, sufficient quantities still circulate to satisfy most collectors’ budgets depending on the specific card and its rated preservation. The 1987 Topps Traded set presents a tangible investment opportunity for today’s savvy collectors.

The 1987 Topps Traded baseball card set highlighted some true icons of the sport during pivotal transitions to new teams. Cards like the rookie offerings of McGwire, Canseco and stars like Ryan, Smith, Brett and others maintain robust collector demand due to incredible talent, memorable imagery and significance in the hobby. With prices already climbing for higher graded versions, savvy collectors would do well to seek out affordable opportunities to add examples from this renowned niche release to their portfolios before values appreciate further with time. The 1987 Topps Traded set stands tall among the most coveted and valuable traded sets in the entire hobby.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PSA VALUE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the junk wax era of the late 1980s. While packs and boxes of these cards could be found cheaply for years after they were released, certain legendary rookie cards and Hall of Famer cards havestood the test of time and grown tremendously in value—especially high-grade vintage presented professionally slabbed and graded by PSA.

One of the rookie cards that regularly demands top dollar is that of Ken Griffey Jr., who was just starting his epic career with the Seattle Mariners in 1987. Griffey’s athleticism, sweet swing, and movie-star looks made him an instant fan favorite. In PSA Gem Mint 10 condition, which signifies a virtually flawless card, the Griffey rookie has sold for well over $10,000 at auction. Even PSA 9s (Near Mint+) can fetch thousands. The incredible rarity and demand for the perfect specimen have made Griffey’s ’87 Topps the undisputed crown jewel of the set.

Another rookie that retains strong appeal is Toronto Blue Jays’ third baseman Kelly Gruber. Though not in Griffey’s stratosphere fame-wise, Gruber put together a fine career and his sharp-looking card remains highly collectible particularly in top grades. PSA 10s have sold for around $2,000 while 9s go for $500-700. Other notable rookies like Randy Velarde, Gregg Olson, and Gary Sheffield also command healthy prices depending on condition.

Of course, the true all-time greats have cards in the ’87 Topps set that are in high demand three decades on. A PSA Gem Mint 10 of Nolan Ryan, even at age 40 during his final MLB season, has gone for over $4,000 at auction. Similarly graded copies of Tom Seaver, Reggie Jackson, and Mike Schmidt routinely pull in $3,000-3,500 each. Pedro Martinez, Cal Ripken Jr., and Wade Boggs garner $1,500-2,000 for PSA 10s as well. Most any other future Hall of Famer like Ozzie Smith and Andre Dawson can sell in the $800-1,200 range if in pristine condition.

While the headliner cards get top billing, there is value to be found throughout the ’87 Topps set in top grades. A PSA 10 of slugging outfielder Dave Parker’s action photo sold recently for just over $500. Philadelphia Phillies hero John Kruk’s card hit $375 for a Gem Mint copy. Even less heralded players like Bob Horner, Chris James, or Von Hayes can attract bids of $100-200 in PSA’s finest holder. Condition is absolutely king, as comparable Near Mint copies of nearly any card would sell for half as much or less.

To preserve and encapsulate all 660 cards from the base 1987 Topps set in PSA 10 glory would be an incredibly challenging undertaking. Only a select few true perfectionist collectors have managed to complete the entire set in Gem Mint condition. But hunting down and assembling teams, divisions, subsets or individual favorite players in pristine PSA slabs continues to be a very popular and rewarding area of vintage baseball card collecting today thanks to the timeless visual design and significant increase in value. While the bust boxes may have been bountiful, finding high-grade 1987 Topps today requires deep pockets or the patience of waiting for the rare strong condition copy to surface on the secondary market.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set acts as a classic reminder of baseball in the pre-steroid era. While production numbers were enormous at the time leading to an oversupply, certain key rookie cards and true legends of the game encapsulated in PSA’s highest Gem Mint 10 grade have proved hugely valuable investments over decades. With Griffey’s rookie as the pinnacle, and Hall of Famers holding steady appeal, the vintage charm and escalating prices for ’87 Topps in top condition show this once abundant junk wax release remains a widely popular and enduring vintage baseball cardboard classic.

1987 DONRUSS ROOKIES BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic rookie card releases in the modern era. While it did not have the star power of sets like 2009 Topps or 2011 Topps Update Series, the 1987 Donruss set featured the rookie cards of several future Hall of Famers and all-time greats including Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. Over 30 years later, these rookie cards continue to hold significant collector value, especially for athletes who went on to have Hall of Fame careers.

The headliner of the 1987 Donruss set is, of course, the Barry Bonds rookie card. Widely considered one of the most important baseball cards ever released, high grade Bonds rookies still command astronomical prices at auction. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, the Bonds rookie has recently sold for over $100,000 at Goldin Auctions. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8-9 still sell for $10,000 or more due to how influential Bonds became as arguably the greatest hitter of all time. With his on-field accomplishments and records intact despite PED allegations, the Bonds rookie remains the crown jewel of the 1987 Donruss set.

Another blue chipper from 1987 Donruss is the Greg Maddux rookie card. Like Bonds, Maddux went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is regarded by many as the best pitcher of the 1990s. High grade Maddux rookies follow Barry Bonds’s prices, albeit not quite as extreme. A PSA 10 Maddux sold for $36,000 at Goldin in early 2022, while PSA 9s can be found in the $3,000-5,000 range. Maddux’s impeccable control and consistency that led to 355 career wins make his rookie one of the more valuable pitching cards from the entire Junk Wax Era.

Tom Glavine’s rookie is also a highly coveted card from 1987 Donruss, even though it does not command Bond’s or Maddux’s prices. Still, PSA 10 Glavine rookies have sold for $15,000-20,000 in recent years. As a two-time Cy Young Award winner who went on to win 305 games and two World Series titles with the Atlanta Braves, Glavine more than lived up to the potential on his debut cardboard. Lower graded Glavine rookies in the PSA 8-9 range will set collectors back $1,000-$3,000 depending on condition. Along with Maddux, Glavine helps make the 1987 Donruss set a who’s who of elite 1990s pitchers in their earliest form.

While Bonds, Maddux and Glavine represent the true power hitter and all-time great pitcher cards from 1987 Donruss, there are other notable rookie successes as well. Dennis Eckersley had a Hall of Fame career primarily as a closer, and his rookie tends to sell in the $200-$500 range depending on grade. Kenny Lofton became a perennial All-Star and six-time Gold Glove center fielder, with his rookie valued around $100-$250. Paul Molitor, Tino Martinez, and David Justice all enjoyed solid big league careers, with their rookies valued between $50-$150 based on condition.

Not every 1987 Donruss rookie panned out or met expectations. Future stars like Andy Benes, Trevor Hoffman, and Jay Buhner never reached their full potential. As a result, their rookie cards hold very little value today, typically $5 or less even in high grades. Pitchers like Alan Benes, Brian Barnes, and Chris George flashed promise but suffered from injuries or were not quite good enough. Their rookies can often be found for under $10. Still, having so many future standouts and fan favorites in one release makes the 1987 Donruss set such an iconic snapshot of baseball’s next generation at the time.

While bulk 1987 Donruss cards still sell for pennies due to the glut of production from the Junk Wax Era, the select rookie star cards hold significant collector value. Headlined by the treasures that are the Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine rookie cards, 1987 Donruss gave a first look at future all-time greats that continue to fascinate card collectors and fans over three decades later. For athletes that reached the pinnacle of Cooperstown enshrinement like Bonds and Maddux, their rookie cards from this beloved set stand out as truly impressive long term investments and highlights of any vintage collection.

BEST CARDS 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. It was the 66th year for Topps to produce baseball cards and featured 660 total cards in the base set. Some of the key highlights and most valuable cards from the 1987 Topps set include:

Roger Clemens (#1): The Rocket’s iconic photo of him winding up to throw made his 1987 rookie card extremely popular. In near mint condition, it can fetch over $1,000 due to his Hall of Fame career and status as one of the greatest pitchers ever.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#253): Like Clemens, Griffey’s rookie card featured an action shot and his talent was evident from the start. High-grade versions have sold for well over $1,000 given his popularity and lengthy, impressive career playing for the Mariners and Reds.

Ozzie Smith (#490): The Wizard’s smooth defensive skills were already well known, making his card popular. It remains one of the most iconic defensive players cards ever issued. High-grade copies can reach $500-600.

Mark McGwire (#499): Although not a true rookie card, it was McGwire’s first Topps issue and featured him with the Athletics. It gained value from his record-setting home run chase with Sosa in 1998. Near-mint versions sell for $300-400.

Donruss also produced sets in 1987 but Topps remained the most widely distributed. The design featured a primarily white border with team logo in the bottom corner. All player photos were in action shots, giving the set a lively, exciting feel.

Rated rookies like Clemens, Griffey, and McGwire helped drive interest, along with established stars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Nolan Ryan. The depth of future Hall of Famers made for an iconic vintage set.

Other notable stars included Rickey Henderson, Mike Schmidt, Kirby Puckett, and Dwight Gooden, all of whom were in or approaching their prime. This gave the set lasting appeal for both collectors and investors.

The gum was a thin, beige-colored stick. While most collectors didn’t chew it, the inclusion of gum was a Topps tradition. Over time, the gum deteriorated which led to card surface issues if not properly stored in toploaders.

The 1987 set had an initial print run estimated between 80-100 million units, fairly large for the time. Demand has remained strong from nostalgic collectors and investors, keeping mint copies scarce.

The design was clean and easy to read at a glance. Teammate duos, action shots, and posed portrait close-ups made for visual interest on each card. Combined with the star power, this led to the set achieving iconic status.

Minor flaws could significantly impact value. Even light surface scratches or dings knock a card’s grade down to “excellent” or below and lower the price accordingly. Top-grade gems remain quite rare and valuable.

In the late 1980s, the baseball card market boomed with speculators and investors driving up prices. The 1987 Topps set benefited greatly, as near-mint flagship rookie cards soared in value. This created lasting interest and demand that continues today.

While price guides today list Clemens and Griffey rookies in the $1,000-2,000 range, true gem mint 10 grades have sold for over $10,000 each. Even commons can reach $50-100 in top-grade. The 1987 Topps set has proven to be one of the best long-term investments in the hobby.

As one of the most iconic and valuable vintage issues, the 1987 Topps set remains a must-have for serious collectors. Its star power, memorable designs, and lasting popularity have cemented it as one of the crown jewels of the entire baseball card collecting world. Prices remain high for all levels of collectors, a testament to this hallowed release.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set stands tall among the most desirable vintage issues for its memorable rookie cards, Hall of Fame talents, iconic photography, and lasting influence on the hobby. Strong demand persists for all levels of collectors, making it an excellent long-term investment even for common cards. Top-graded examples of stars like Clemens, Griffey, and McGwire have reached five-figure prices and more. For nostalgia, aesthetic appeal, and investment potential, the 1987 Topps set remains a benchmark achievement in the industry.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable vintage sets from the late 1980s. While not the flashiest set of its era and lacking some big star rookies, the 1987 Donruss set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors due to its simpler, classic designs. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top cards and price trends from the 1987 Donruss baseball card set.

The 1987 Donruss set contains 792 total cards including player cards, manager/coach cards, league leader cards, and team/league summary cards. On the surface, the ’87 Donruss designs are fairly plain featuring a centered headshot photo with the team logo and player name/info below. This clean, uncluttered look has certainly contributed to the set’s longevity and collector appeal over the decades. Overall condition and centering are especially important for determining value on these cards as even minor flaws can significantly reduce prices.

Some of the most prominent names and thus most valuable cards from the ’87 Donruss set include Nolan Ryan (card #280), Roger Clemens (card #262), Wade Boggs (card #92), Ozzie Smith (card #352), and Eric Davis (card #108). All of these players were established stars in 1987 and their rookie cards were already in the past. An PSA 10 gem mint condition Nolan Ryan can fetch well over $1000. A PSA 9 excellent Clemens or Boggs would sell in the $200-300 range. Slightly lower grades would still sell but for considerably less.

Keith Hernandez (card #340) and Gary Carter (card #126) are also two popular and pricey Expos cards due to their star status on some strong Montreal teams in the mid-80s. A PSA 10 Hernandez could sell for $400-500. Graded Carter rookie cards from previous years demand more but his ’87 Donruss still carries value as high as $150-200 in top condition. While not true rookie cards, Ozzie Smith (card #352), Andre Dawson (card #162), and Ryne Sandberg (card #402) are examples of expensive Expos/Cubs cards due to hall of fame careers and respective fan bases.

When it comes to true rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set, there just aren’t many big hits in the same way as flagship sets from 1987 Topps, Fleer, or Score. A few notable rookies do exist. Barry Larkin’s rookie card (#619) isn’t his most valuable but still carries demand as high as $50-75 graded PSA/BGS 9 or better due to his hall of fame career and Cincinnati ties. Another two rookies that have found renewed interest in recent years include Mark McGwire (#439) and Dennis Eckersley (#422). Both were early in their careers in ’87 but went on to have Hall-of-Fame caliber second acts. A PSA 10 McGwire could fetch $150-300 while a PSA 9 Eckersley might sell for $75-125.

Beyond singles, the 1987 Donruss set also holds value in complete, high-grade form. A near-complete set (690/792 cards) in PSA/BGS 8 condition could sell for $500-800 depending on centering quality. A true full PSA/BGS 9 set in original factory set form would command $1,500-2,000. The highest premiums are reserved for improbable full PSA/BGS 10 sets (have only been graded once or twice) which could conceivably reach the $5,000-8,000 range given the rarity and demand from dedicated vintage collectors. Subsets also carry value such as a full 60-card managers/coaches PSA 9 subset selling for $300-500.

While not the most star-studded vintage set, the clean and classic 1987 Donruss design has earned it an enduring spot among baseball card collectors. Top hall of fame singles can reach $1000-2000 in PSA 10. Rarer high-grade complete sets are true trophies that preserve the entire player roster from that season. Minor flaws and lack of huge rookie names keep complete common sets affordable, in the $300-800 range. Overall prices for the 1987 Donruss have remained relatively steady in recent years and the set still holds appeal for budget-minded collectors seeking vintage cardboard from one of the simpler, more enjoyable eras of the hobby’s history.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is widely considered to be one of the most valuable modern sets from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While individual cards may not hold tremendous value on their own, finding an unopened 1987 Donruss wax box in pristine condition could be a goldmine for collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes these 35-year-old cardboard relics so special.

Donruss released their 1987 set just as the junk wax era was ramping up. Speculators and investors flooded the market looking to profit, believing that sports cards were the next big investment vehicle. As a result, production numbers soared to keep up with demand. The 1987 Donruss set contains 525 cards and was mass produced, with experts estimating over 110 million total packs were printed. While this immense surplus available may sound undesirable, it’s this same factor that can make sealed wax boxes so valuable today – with so few survivors in mint condition.

The design themes of the 1987 Donruss set were fairly basic – focusing mainly on individual player photos with stats on the back. Rosters included all major leaguers as well as proven minor leaguers. Some parallels and variations added complexity. The design lacked flashy graphics or iconic photos that might drive enthusiasm. But simplicity offers longevity, and the cards remain a well-recognized brand from that period. What 1987 Donruss boxes lack in flashy appeal they can potentially make up for in preservation and limited survivors.

While production numbers were astronomical, proper storage and care is needed to maintain a sealed wax box in pristine shape decades later. The wax and packaging must be wholly intact without dents, creases, or other handling wear over three decades. Sun exposure can damage cardboard, while humidity shifts can cause wax to deteriorate. After surviving normal storage risks, a sealed box also had to avoid being lost, damaged in moves, or sacrificed to the card breaker’s axe over the past 35 years. With all the obstacles, intact 35-year-old sealed boxes have turned out to be quite rare.

For collectors, the lure of an unopened 1987 Donruss wax box is the anticipation and mystery of not knowing the content within. In addition to a full base set, there is potential for hit cards, autographs, and oddball parallels only pack-fresh for decades. While individual common player cards hold little value, a complete pristine base set straight from the pack in 35 years would carry immense nostalgia and novelty. Plus, the box itself becomes a piece of memorabilia. Professionally graded mint boxes have started to sell for hundreds or even thousands due to their scarcity and historic significance representing the peak of the junk wax boom.

There’s also inherent value in a sealed box for investors. Instead of single cards, the box contains an entire set still in the original packaging that’s virtually guaranteed to increase in worth long-term. As the junk wax era becomes more historic and collectors from that generation age, interest and prices are expected to steadily rise. And with so few surviving examples, appropriately preserved sealed wax boxes from the late 80s peak could emerge as highly coveted trophies. Those who can provide this experience for future collectors will be well positioned.

While individual 1987 Donruss cards hold little intrinsic value today, finding an unopened wax box in pristine preserved condition has fantastic potential. The rarity of surviving sealed packs after 35 years subjected to the elements and human handling is a key driver of value. For nostalgic collectors, a sealed box represents a time capsule winding back the clock to relive the junk wax era excitement of opening fresh packs not knowing what treasures lie within. As one of the most produced sets, 1987 Donruss has an important place in the history of the modern trading card boom. An intact sealed wax box bridges that significant period in card collecting history and culture.

RARE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable vintage issues in the hobby. While it does not have mega stars like A Rod or Bonds rookie cards that can fetch jaw-dropping sums, there are still several scarce and desirable inserts that can earn serious cash for collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the rarest 1987 Topps cards that often excite vintage buyers.

The true holy grails of the 1987 Topps set are the famous photo variation short prints, which are astonishingly tough to acquire in high grade. These include cards like #76 Rick Cerone, #201 Kevin Romine, #265 Glenn Hubbard, #290 Ed Nunez, and #468 Dwight Gooden. These variations feature entirely different action photos than the standard issue counterparts. Grading experts believe only a small number were accidentally printed this way before the photo error was caught. As a result, these versions have become exponentially rare, with even lowly graded examples bringing in thousands due to their great condition scarcity. The Glenn Hubbard is probably the most coveted, with PSA/BGS 9s needing six figures.

Another hugely valuable insert is the incredibly rare Topps Traded set, which was only produced for select star players to include stats and stats from late season trades. Some highlighted TF cards include #T1 Kirby Puckett, #T4 Tommy Hinzo, and #T5 Rick Sutcliffe. With only 100 copies of each player printed, these are absolute needle-in-a-haystack cards that top auctions regularly. The mint Puckett has gone for over $50,000 before. Also immensely tough to find are the minor league prospect Traded cards, like Dodgertown Traded #DT-17 Mike Sharperson. Fewer than 50 are believed to exist altogether.

Moving to numbered parallels, the gold #1 Mike Schmidt leads the way as the lone true 1/1 edition from 1987. This precious card has achieved astronomical prices, with the last PSA 10 example ending an auction at a staggering $96,000 back in 2015. It continues to be one of the most valuable modern-era baseball cards in the world. Other rarenumbered inserts include the gold #7 Eric Davis, #15 Reggie Jackson, and the more attainable but still pricey high numbers like the gold #400 Bret Saberhagen. These manufactured rarities can also gain five figures for pristine samples.

Speaking of gold, the widely publicized 1987 Topps Traded Set insert with golden backs also holds immense value. Only 35 full gold back traded sets with all 50 cards in pristine shape exist, according to the leading authentication companies’ population counts. This monumental feat of gaining rainbow shimmers on every single member makes these sets seven-figure status items. Even incomplete gold sets attract vast sums. An unopened factory sealed box holding a full gold set in prospect would likely sell at auction for over $500,000 if one ever became available today.

Perhaps the most glamorous card in the set for hardcore collectors is the famous error card #416 featuring Philadelphia Phillies ace Steve Bedrosian. The regular version correctly lists his wins as 3, but a small batch was accidentally printed stating his total as “S3.” This minor typo has made Bedrosian’s card one of the most valuable in the set. Prices start at $15,000 for low-grade examples and rapidly multiply for high certified samples. In fact, the only PSA 10 graded holds the record as the costliest single 1987 card at a final auction tally of $93,500 back in 2018.

With famous photo variances, traded short prints, gold parallels, and oddball errors, it’s clear why the 1987 Topps issue remains such a hit with investors and enthusiasts decades after production. Although age and condition issues prevent most examples from achieving astronomical prices, the select premier specimens continue to excite the hobby. Whether collecting for fun or future financial gain, discovering one of these prized rarities in a pack would surely produce a moment to remember. The 1987s truly have no shortage of fascinating stories left to tell.