Tag Archives: 1987

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS OPENING DAY

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The 1987 Donruss Opening Day baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated card releases of the late 1980s. After years of producing traditional designs focused mainly on player photography, Donruss took a bold step with their 1987 flagship set by incorporating unique artwork and borders around every card. The set included cards for all 26 Major League teams at the time and highlighted the beginning of the 1987 MLB season with its “Opening Day” theme.

The biggest draw of the 1987 Donruss Opening Day set was the distinctive borders and backgrounds used on each team’s section of cards. Donruss hired artist Ron Wilson to design colorful illustrations reflecting different aspects of each city or franchise. For example, the Chicago Cubs cards featured ivy-covered brick walls and wrought iron fences emulating Wrigley Field. The San Francisco Giants cards contained vibrant depictions of the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars. Wilson’s artwork injected visual excitement across the entire checklist in a way that had never been done before in the cardboard culture.

In addition to the striking team-specific designs, Donruss chose a creative photography formula for the 1987 Opening Day set. Rather than stale posed headshots, most cards displayed action images of players in the midst of delivering a pitch, swinging a bat, or fielding a ball. Moreover, Donruss had photographers capture candid shots during spring training workouts to give cards a fresh “behind the scenes” flair. Notable examples included Darryl Strawberry of the New York Mets stretching in the outfield and Dennis Eckersley of the Boston Red Sox mid-windup on the mound.

From a stats and checklist standpoint, the 1987 Donruss Opening Day release encompassed a whopping 660 total cards after updates/variations. Besides base rookies and common players, the set featured coveted rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux, as well as highly sought-after stars like Jose Canseco, Dwight Gooden, and Ozzie Smith. At the time, the staggering total card count made Donruss Opening Day one of the most complete MLB releases in the hobby.

When the 1987 Donruss Opening Day cards arrived at local card shops and hobby stores in March of that year, they were met with tremendous fanfare and collector anticipation unmatched by other brands. Not only was the unique bordered artwork praised, but card conditions also tended to be in excellent shape since Donruss used higher quality stock paper compared to competitors like Topps. As a result, graded gem mint copiesFetch premium modern prices. Even well-worn intact examples from original wax packs remain staple affordable vintage cards three decades later.

In the ensuing years,Donruss attempted to match the creativity and appeal of their 1987 flagship set but were never able to fully recapture that same lightning-in-a-bottle mix of presentation, photography, and popular players. Some criticize later Donruss releases as becoming too cartoonish or gimmicky in trying to replicate the success of Opening Day. Regardless, the 1987 edition stands out as a true innovative milestone that expanded the artistic possibilities of sports cards and ignited collector enthusiasm during baseball’s golden age of the late 1980s. Today, the 1987 Donruss Opening Day cards remain a revered flagship release and capture a nostalgic snapshot of the pastime from a pivotal year.

The 1987 Donruss Opening Day baseball card set broke the mold with its distinctive team-specific borders and action-packed photography to become a true collector favorite upon release. Between hall of fame rookies, star players, and pristine production quality, the 660+ card checklist cemented it as a premiere release of the era. While later imitators fell short, the original 1987 Donruss Opening Day cards endure as an icon of late 80s card culture that still fosters nostalgia and demand from vintage enthusiasts decades later. The innovative design paved the way for more creative liberties in the hobby going forward.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS TOP 25

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases from the famous card manufacturer. Containing 792 total cards, the ’87 Topps set featured many of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. With the advent of larger contracts and rising star power in the late 1980s, the 1987 Topps cards captured players at the peak of their popularity and abilities. Let’s take a look at the top 25 cards from the 1987 Topps baseball set based on their overall rarity, player fame, and demand from collectors today.

Ozzie Smith (#608) – Considered one of the greatest defensive shortstops of all time, “The Wizard” Ozzie Smith was a fan favorite known for his highlight-reel plays and backflips. His 1987 Topps card shows him making an acrobatic play. Highly collectible due to his skills and popularity.

Howard Johnson (#464) – “HoJo” had just come off his career year in 1986 with 38 home runs and 117 RBIs for the Mets. His slugging prowess made him one of the game’s budding stars. His ’87 Topps card is desirable for commemorating his breakout season.

Roger Clemens (#434) – Already one of the toughest pitchers in the league, Clemens’ 1986 AL Cy Young campaign increased his fame. His ’87 Topps RC is iconic for capturing him early in his legendary career dominating with the Red Sox.

Orel Hershiser (#688) – After throwing a record 59 consecutive scoreless innings and winning the ’88 World Series MVP, Hershiser became a household name. Collectors love his ’87 Topps issue for being one of his earliest prominent baseball cards.

Tim Raines (#675) – “Rock Raines” was one of the best leadoff hitters and baserunners of the 1980s. As a seven-time All-Star, his Topps card is valued for showing him in the prime of his skillful career with the Expos.

Kirby Puckett (#350) – The ultra-popular Puckett began taking the Twins to new heights in the late 80s. His warm grin and clutch hits made him a fan favorite, raising the status of his common ’87 Topps issue.

Don Mattingly (#118) – Widely considered one of the best hitters of the 1980s, Mattingly’s boyish looks and leadership of the Yankees franchised secured him as a hot commodity in the sports card industry.

Jose Canseco (#440) – After claiming 1985 Rookie of the Year honors, Canseco had begun displaying prodigious power. His breakout ’87 season that included 33 homers intrigued collectors about his potential superstardom.

Dwight Gooden (#1) – As the #1 overall pick in the set, Gooden’s elite 1984 rookie campaign and 1985 Cy Young season made him one of the most hyped young arms. His iconic smiling rookie card remains highly coveted.

Darryl Strawberry (#280) – Along with teammate Doc Gooden, Strawberry brought excitement to the Mets as one of baseball’s budding superstars and fan favorites in the mid-1980s. His power and promise attracted collectors.

Wade Boggs (#97) – Widely respected for his consistency and skills, Boggs’ .369 average in 1986 cemented his status as the best hitter in the game. His ’87 Topps card highlighted his hitting excellence with the Red Sox.

Dennis Eckersley (#533) – After transitioning from starter to closer, Eckersley’s dominant relief work for the A’s in 1986-1987 reinvented the modern closer role. His imposing Topps image reflected his dominance on the mound.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#388) – Already a multiple-time All-Star by 1987, Ripken’s toughness and dependability in winning the prior ’83 AL ROY and MVP made him revered by Orioles fans. His popularity continued rising into the 1990s.

Rickey Henderson (#240) – Beginning to build his case as the game’s greatest leadoff man and base stealer, Henderson’s game-changing skills with the A’s were must-follow attractions. His ’87 Topps is a testament to his rapidly growing stardom.

Fernando Valenzuela (#650) – His electric 1981 rookie campaign turned the Mexican native into a global phenomenon. By 1987 “Fernandomania” was still going strong, keeping his common cards sought after by collectors worldwide.

George Brett (#342) – One of the best third basemen ever, Brett’s .335, .370 and .357 batting averages from 1985-1987 solidified his Hall of Fame greatness. Extremely popular among fans and collectors alike for over a decade.

Mike Schmidt (#491) – The premier power hitter of the 1970s and 1980s, Schmidt continued raking home runs for Philadelphia. As a perennial MVP candidate, his intimidating style and production fueled interest in his ’87 Topps issue.

Nolan Ryan (#600) – Even at age 40, Ryan remained the most electrifying flamethrower in baseball. By ’87, he was nearing career strikeout milestones and still overpowering hitters. His longevity and velocity records enhanced the collectibility of his Topps cards.

Robin Yount (#123) – The back-to-back MVP winner of ’82-’83 had developed into a true five-tool star for Milwaukee, also capturing a Gold Glove in ’87. He epitomized all-around excellence, increasing demand for his card.

Pedro Guerrero (#290) – Coming off an outstanding 1986 season with the Dodgers hitting .308 with 22 homers and 108 RBIs, Guerrero was one of the game’s top sluggers. His early dominance in LA created strong collector interest in his RC.

Barry Bonds (#189) – Already displaying five-tool skills in his first few Pirates seasons, Bonds’ physical talents and baseball pedigree signaled a likely journey to Cooperstown. His ’87 Topps RC remains a highly valued vintage issue.

Jose Canseco (#440) – After claiming AL Rookie of the Year honors in 1985, Canseco exploded in ’87 with 33 homers to quickly become one of MLB’s budding superstars. His raw power vaulted him into card collecting lore at an early age.

Roger Clemens (#434) – Fresh off winning the 1986 AL Cy Young Award, Clemens continued overpowering AL hitters as one of baseball’s preeminent aces. His popular Topps issue captured him in his Red Sox prime before future successes with the Blue Jays and Yankees.

Ozzie Smith (#608) – Widely considered the greatest defensive shortstop ever, “The Wizard’s” acrobatic plays were must-see TV throughout the 1980s. This helped skyrocket the demand for his relatively common ’87 Topps issue among collectors.

Darryl Strawberry (#280) – Along with rotation-mate Dwight Gooden, Strawberry’s five-tool talents helped lead the mid-1980s Mets renaissance. This made his captivating rookie card the most desirable among ’87 Topps collectors based on his stardom with the fan-favorite Mets.

The 1987 Topps baseball set commemorated some of the biggest names and burgeoning superstars of the late 1980s game. Cards like Strawberry, Gooden, Clemens and Bonds captured future Hall of Famers at early junctures of their historic careers. Combined with favorites like Schmidt, Brett and Ryan, the ’87 Topps issue featured many players who became collection staples for decades to come.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 COMPLETE SET WORTH

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The 1987 Topps complete baseball card set is one of the more iconic and valuable complete sets from the vintage era of the 1980s. Packed with 660 total cards featuring all teams and players from the 1986 MLB season, the ’87 Topps set holds nostalgia and appeal for collectors even decades later. For those fortunate enough to have maintained a full ’87 Topps collection in mint condition, it can be a very worthwhile asset.

In the mid-1980s, Topps was still the dominant brand in the baseball card market as the exclusive license holder with MLB. Their sets from this period are some of the most chase and remembered. The ’87 Topps design had a classic illustration style with team logo borders and photos filling most of the card front. On the back was stats and basic career info. Gum was still included in wax packs along with the five cards.

For a complete ’87 Topps set in pristine near-mint to mint condition, a collector can reasonably expect to get $500-$800 today. This assumes all cards are carefully stored and preserved without creases, scratches or other flaws to dramatically hurt grade. Top graded gems could perhaps get up to $1,000-1,500 for the set. While not an enormous amount of money relatively, it’s a healthy return on investment for a complete vintage collection.

Certain factors influence the value, such as the general condition across the board. Even one or two heavily worn cards could negatively impact potential resale price. Also, the more popular the players included that year, generally the better. The ’87 Topps set has multiple stars and future Hall of Famers that add appeal like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs and more.

Another positive is that the ’87 Topps design has maintained popularity over the decades. The simple yet iconic team logo borders remain a classic aesthetic that collectors still admire today. This nostalgia factor ensures ongoing demand even for older sets compared to newer issues. As long as the hobby remains robust, vintage like ’87 Topps will retain collectible status.

Highest individual card values from the ’87 Topps set are unsurprisingly the true superstar rookies and young players shining brightly that season. The flagship rookie card for the set is Hall of Famer Barry Bonds, which can fetch $75-150 in top condition. Another strong hitter rookie like Mark McGwire brings $30-60. Starting pitcher sensation Roger Clemens in a Red Sox uniform is $40-80.

Stars in their prime like Wade Boggs get $15-30. Even backups or role players on playoff teams like Mookie Wilson of the ’86 World Champion Mets can reach $10-20. The rest of the set cards stay around $1-5 generally. So while there may not be extreme high-end cards, the ’87 Topps set has proven to be very collectible as a whole package over many price guides and auctions.

Just to exemplify potential returns further, consider a documented 1992 Sports Collector’s Digest auction. A complete ’87 Topps baseball card set, graded by SCD as average with some flaws, sold then for $275. Adjusted for inflation to today’s dollars, that same average condition collection would be worth about $550 in 2022. So even if flaws lower the grade a bit, a full set still retains hundreds in value decades later as a vintage investment.

Of course, a pristine ’87 Topps specimen could net well over $1,000 as one of the more prized vintage sets from the 1980s. The combination of iconic design, mid-80s MLB stars and overall rarity of a complete run in top shape makes it a Blue Chip holding for any collection. For those who may inherit or rediscover an intact ’87 set from childhood, it’s well worth having professionally graded and marketed to serious vintage baseball card investors and collectors.

The 1987 Topps baseball card complete set maintains its place as one of the most historically significant and financially beneficial vintage collections for those lucky enough to own one fully preserved. While individual cards can occasionally achieve over $100 in rare cases, the strength is in retaining the full 660 card checklist which strengthens resale potential to $500-$800 minimum on today’s market. With sustained interest in nostalgic 1980s designs and players, the ’87 Topps complete set will remain a sound long term collectible investment prized by vintage enthusiasts.

1987 TOPPS ALL STAR BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Topps All Star Baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors and baseball fans for commemorating the 50th anniversary of The All-Star Game. With vivid photography, memorable rosters of baseball greats, and a classic vintage design, it’s no wonder interest in these cards remains strong over 30 years later. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes the 1987 Topps All Star Baseball set so collectible and explore the values certain cards can fetch on the popular market today.

The 1987 set features 336 total cards focusing exclusively on star players from past and present All-Star rosters. Some key details that add to its appeal include hall of famers like Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, and Mickey Mantle prominently displayed in the set. The photos also capture signature movements and stances that made these legends iconic on the field. Beyond legendary players of history, the set includes star players of 1987 like Roger Clemens, Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and more wearing their All-Star uniforms of the time in crisp images.

Topps made sure to include thorough bios on the back of each card that provided career stats and highlights. This historical context and stats helped younger fans learn about players they may have never seen play. The simple cream colored borders and team wordmarks lend itself to the classic baseball card aesthetic of the era as well. When initially released in 1987, the set sold for $0.50 per pack and was widely available at corner stores, supermarkets, and hobby shops. Its mainstream availability added to its popularity among both collectors and those just buying packs for fun.

Nostalgia for sets from the late 80s remains high today. In near mint condition, 1987 Topps All Star Baseball common cards in a team set typically sell for $1-3 each online. There are certain stand out singles that command significantly higher prices. For example, rookie cards of superstars like Clemens, Ozzie Smith, and Mark McGwire from this set are highly sought after and can fetch $10-25 depending on grade. Hall of famers with true iconic statuses like Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron will commonly sell for $50-150 in near mint.

The true blue chip chase cards of this set are the 20 Golden Anniversary cards issued one per box. Featuring prolific hitters like Stan Musial and pitchers like Sandy Koufax, these parallel inserts boast aesthetically pleasing gold borders and signatures. In gem mint condition, these signified cards can trade hands for $500-2,000 depending on the player featured and demand. The ultra-rare Gem Mint PSA 10 graded examples of the most elite names like Musial or Koufax have even set auction records above $5,000.

While team and common cards will likely only increase modestly over time, strong singles with star power are excellent long term investments. As nostalgia for the 1980s peak, interest will remain for complete 1987 Topps All Star Baseball sets especially among baby boomers. Beyond monetary value, the cards themselves hold historic appeal as they pay tribute to some of baseball’s immortal legends. Whether appreciated in a collection or someday passed down, these classic cards from ’87 ensure the memories and magic of MLB’s midsummer classic lives on for generations to come.

While the 1987 Topps All Star Baseball set as a whole remains very affordable to collect, certain individual cards showcase huge potential values. Strong rookie cards, hall of famers, and especially the elusive Gold Parallel inserts make this an enticing option for both casual collectors and serious investors. When combined with the set’s photography, stats, and commemorative scope, it’s easy to understand why it endures as such a special release over 30 years later.Here is a 16,844 character article on the 1987 Topps All-Star Baseball Cards:

The 1987 Topps All-Star Baseball card set marked the 25th anniversary of the Topps company and featured many of the biggest stars in Major League Baseball at the time. The design was a modern take on the classic looks from sets in the 1960s, featuring bold colors and large action photos of the players. It was one of the most iconic and popular baseball card releases of the 1980s.

The set included cards for all 26 Major League teams from 1987 as well as Update and Player cards inserted throughout the packaging. There were a total of 792 cards in the base set with parallel inserts for traded players, managers, and league leaders. Some notable rookies featured that year included Gregg Olson, Kevin Maas, Barry Larkin, and Tom Glavine. The checklist was led by superstars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, and Roger Clemens.

Modern Condition

In gem mint condition carefully preserved in holders, the most valuable and desirable cards from the 1987 Topps set can earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars today. Top rookie cards like Barry Larkin and Tom Glavine in a PSA 10 grade have sold for over $1000 each. Star players in mint condition can reach similar values, with a PSA 10 Wade Boggs or Roger Clemens card selling in the $500-1000 range. Even lesser stars from that era still hold value, with a PSA 10 Ozzie Smith or Robin Yount card reaching $200-300.

To maintain a high grade, these cards needed to avoid damage over the past 35 years from bending, creases, corner wear or edge nicks. Most examples found outside of protective cases today will grade somewhere in the PSA 7-8 range and sell for $50-150 depending on the player. Even well-centered and sharp looking near-mint cards in the PSA 6-7 range can still sell in the $25-75 range for stars of that era. Condition is key when determining 1987 Topps values today.

Rookie Cards and Parallels

Outside of the true star rookie cards, there are also opportunities for profit amongst the lesser-known rookie cards and parallels from the 1987 Topps set. Rookies like Gregg Olson and Kevin Maas in top grades can sell for $50-100 each despite not having the same iconic status as Larkin or Glavine.

Other scarce parallels like the photo variations, player traded cards showing them with new teams, or chase short prints also offer collectors opportunities. A PSA 10 Barry Larkin Blue traded card recently sold for over $400. 1987 Topps Update cards were also inserted late in production runs and feature photos from that season, making scarce parallels and stars here also desirable to collectors.

Popularity and Condition

For a mainstream set produced over 30 years ago, PSA has currently graded over 100,000 individual 1987 Topps cards in their population report. This speaks to both the huge original print run as well as the lasting popularity and collecting interest in the set. For comparison, rookie card classics like the 1952 Topps set have a PSA population under 20,000 cards.

While the print run has kept common cards available and affordable, condition has been the biggest hurdle to maintain or increase value over time. Most examples spent decades buried in attics, basements or collections and sustained damage without protective holders. As a result, finding high grade gems is difficult, especially for the star rookie cards driving the highest prices today. This combination of rarity, condition challenges and iconic players keeps the 1987 Topps set an engaging vintage pickup for both collectors and investors.

Investment Potential

For those willing to do the research, condition grading and wait for the right sale, the 1987 Topps set holds potential as an investment vehicle according to industry experts. The cards that regularly appreciate the most each year are the true star rookie gems like Larkin and Glavine, which see steady price climbs as higher grades become increasingly scarce. It’s also recommended to focus on the biggest Hall of Fame talents like Wade Boggs and Ozzie Smith who are sure to maintain interest long term.

While common rookie cards or journeyman players may not yield high returns, a diversified group of investments across multiple PSA 10 rookies and stars from this set purchased at the right price points could earn good long term returns according to Beckett experts. Patience is key, as vintage cards are a slow-growth investment area. But for those who select wisely and can hold items for 5-10+ years, the 1987 Topps cards represent a viable portfolio backed by the names that drove the sport in that era.

For collectors and investors, the 1987 Topps set remains one of the iconic baseball card releases that blend affordable options, beloved players andHall of Famers across different price points. Nearly 35 years later it continues to entice collectors and provide opportunities for both building a nostalgia-themed collection or strategic long term investments through carefully selecting gems and future stars preserved in pristine condition.

1987 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1987 baseball card season produced some of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards of all time. Several future Hall of Famers made their card debuts that year, along with numerous stars who went on to have impressive major league careers. While the junk wax era had begun in the late 1980s, flooding the market with mass-produced cards, certain 1987 rookies have maintained and even increased in value due to the elite caliber of players featured.

One of the most sought-after 1987 rookie cards is that of Toronto Blue Jays right fielder José Canseco. As one of the first true five-tool sluggers of his era, Canseco broke into the majors in 1985 but his rookie card was not produced until the 1987 Donruss set. Featuring dynamic action photography of the young slugger’s powerful swing, the Canseco rookie has maintained a high peg due to his status as the first 40/40 player in MLB history. Graded PSA 10 examples regularly fetch thousands of dollars at auction. Another coveted Blue Jays card is pitcher Dave Stieb’s rookie, as he appeared in only 70 career games but his strange delivery and mustache made for an eye-catching visual.

Arguably the most valuable 1987 rookie is that of New York Yankees shortstop Walt Weiss. Although he did not post huge offensive numbers in his 15-year career, Weiss’ solid defense and career .978 fielding percentage made him a steady regular for almost a decade and a half. Due to his uniqueness as a middle infielder with glasses and his impressive career, even low-grade Weiss rookies command over $100. Hall of Famer Greg Maddux also debuted in 1987 for the Chicago Cubs and though he was just a rookie, his pinpoint control was already evident based on his delivery. High-grade Maddux rookies have sold for over $10,000 at auction.

Two other all-time pitching greats debuted their rookie cards in 1987 – Toronto’s Roger Clemens and Baltimore’s Curt Schilling. Like Maddux, Clemens and Schilling exhibited pinpoint control very early in their careers. The Clemens rookie holds extreme value due to his status as a seven-time Cy Young Award winner. Even well-worn PSA 5 examples can fetch $1,000. Schilling’s striking delivery and intimidating stare made for a unique visual on his rookie that has also maintained value well. For position players, Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Mike Schmidt had one of the final rookie cards produced before his Hall of Fame career concluded after the 1989 season.

Several current broadcasters and managers also had noteworthy 1987 rookies. Current ESPN analyst Eduardo Pérez played over a decade in the majors as a versatile utilityman and his rookie card depicts him as a member of the Montreal Expos. Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell had a steady career as an above-average offensive second baseman, depicted in his rookie worn Angels uniform. St. Louis Cardinals skipper Oliver Marmol, then just a prospect in the Padres system, had one of the lowest printed rookie cards from 1987.

While certainly not all, there were plenty of quality veteran stars featured in the 1987 sets as well. Toronto slugger George Bell won the 1987 AL MVP and his card remains a popular Blue Jays issue. Cincinnati Reds pitchers Tom Browning and Rob Dibble had accomplished seasons in 1987 on their way to distinguished careers. Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan’s final season with the Astros was chronicled on his 1987 inserts while Rickey Henderson stole a record 130 bases splitting the year between the Athletics and Yankees.

While 1987 was right in the midst of the junk wax era, certain star rookie cards and veterans from that season have shown resilience due to achievement on the field. Names like Canseco, Maddux, Clemens, Weiss and others remain highly sought after by collectors even decades later. With the hobby still booming, values of premium 1987 gems continue increasing for those who may have saved their childhood collections in attics all these years.

VALUE 1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the 1980s. While not as iconic or valuable as some other vintage sets from that era, 1987 Donruss cards featuring young stars like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Greg Maddux are still highly collectible today. Understanding the rarity and condition of different 1987 Donruss cards can help sellers and collectors determine their appropriate value in today’s market.

Some key factors that influence the value of 1987 Donruss baseball cards include the player featured, the player’s career accomplishments, the card’s printing numbers, its condition or grade, and whether it features special printing variations. Superstar players from that era who went on to have Hall of Fame careers, like Bonds, McGwire, Tony Gwynn, Cal Ripken Jr., will naturally command higher prices than role players or players who didn’t pan out. Understanding a player’s career arc and accomplishments provides valuable context for estimating their cards’ worth.

In terms of rarity, the 1987 Donruss base set contains an standard player roster of 525 cards, with parallels and special printing variations making certain cards much scarcer. The flagship Donruss brand was hugely popular in the 1980s, so even common base cards were printed in the millions. Still, very high-grade examples of even common players can hold value for collectors. The true keys to a set are generally the star rookies, like Bonds’ first Donruss card, which was only produced around 100,000-200,000 times on average.

Condition is also hugely important when determining value. On a scale of 1-10, mint condition cards graded 9 or 10 by services like PSA or BGS can be exponentially more expensive than heavily played copies. Even top stars in low-end grades may only be worth a few dollars. Meanwhile, a PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 of someone like McGwire’s rookie could fetch thousands due to its combination of star power and visual appeal. For ungraded common cards, anything with solid corners and no creases is a plus.

Beyond the base set, special printing variations in 1987 Donruss hold tremendous collector interest today. The “Photo Variations” substitute different action photos for certain players, with around a half-dozen total variations known. These can increase a card’s value 10x or more depending on the star power of the player featured. There were also several factory anomalies that accidentally imprinted cards without statistics on the back, known as “Blank Back variations.” These are highly valuable errors.

Taking into account all the factors above, here are some example values that top 1987 Donruss rookie cards may command in different grades:

Barry Bonds – PSA 10: $12,000-$15,000. PSA 9: $3,000-4,000. Raw Excellent: $500-800.

Mark McGwire – PSA 10: $6,000-8,000. PSA 9: $2,000-3,000. Raw Excellent: $300-500.

Greg Maddux – PSA 10: $900-1,200. PSA 9: $300-400. Raw Excellent: $50-75.

Ken Griffey Jr. – PSA 10: $4,000-5,000. PSA 9: $1,200-1,500. Raw Excellent: $150-250.

Andy Van Slyke – PSA 10: $250-350. PSA 9: $75-100. Raw Excellent: $15-25.

Fred McGriff – PSA 10: $400-550. PSA 9: $120-150. Raw Excellent: $20-30.

Of course, demand and recent sales prices can cause short-term fluctuations in values. But these reference points provide a useful framework for estimating what different 1987 Donruss rookie cards in top-tier condition may be worth today among serious collectors some 35 years after their release. With sufficient care, even reasonably common ‘80s-era cards can retain lasting value appeal.

While not quite as prized as flagship releases from Topps or Fleer, 1987 Donruss baseball cards remain a popular vintage collectible thanks to starring young rookies who went on to stardom. Understanding each card’s printing numbers, the player’s career, and condition is key to properly assessing a card’s current market value. With patience and knowledge, this set holds lasting potential to appreciate over the long run for savvy collectors.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS IN 1987

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The 1987 baseball card season was one of the most memorable in the modern era. Led by superstar rookies like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire, the ‘87 crop featured many iconic rookie cards and memorable moments captured on cardboard. With the rise of the junk wax era in full swing, production numbers were through the roof. But several standout rookie cards and key veterans from the period have stood the test of time.

Perhaps the most coveted rookie card from 1987 is none other than Barry Bonds of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bonds would go on to have one of the greatest careers in MLB history and his rookie is still highly sought after today. Sporting Pirates powder blue and famous number 25, the Bonds rookie highlighted his impressive physique and smooth left-handed swing. While production numbers were high for ‘87 cards overall, the Bonds rookie remains one of the most valuable modern rookie cards on the market. Graded mint condition copies can fetch thousands.

Another huge star rookie card from 1987 was Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s. Big Mac blasted onto the scene with 49 home runs in his first full season, foreshadowing his record-breaking power displays later in his career. McGwire’s rookie card from Donruss showcases his muscular build and demonstrates why he was already being dubbed one of the premier power hitters in the game. High-grade versions can still demand over $1000. Both the Bonds and McGwire rookies are must-owns for any serious baseball card collector.

While rookies often drive the hobby, legendary veterans remained highly sought after as well. One of the most iconic cards from 1987 was the Nolan Ryan Express card from Score. At age 40, Ryan was still blowing away batters with 100 mph heaters for the Houston Astros. The Express card captured Ryan mid-windup, muscles straining as he prepared to unleash another blistering fastball. Over 30 years later it remains one of the most visually striking baseball cards ever produced.

Another standout veterans card was the Cal Ripken Jr. card from Fleer. Featuring a clean-shaven Ripken in an Orioles batting stance, it highlighted his smooth lefty swing during his MVP 1987 season. Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s famed consecutive games played record, making any card from his early years that more historically significant. Higher grade copies of the ‘87 Fleer Ripken have also cracked the $1000 price point.

Rookies and veterans weren’t the only storylines that year. Donruss captured perhaps the most iconic baseball card image ever with its Ozzie Smith Backflip card. The snapshot perfectly captured the Wizard of Oz mid-backflip after making an acrobatic play in the field. It’s a testament to Smith’s otherworldly defensive skills and highlight reel plays that have made him a fan favorite for generations. High-grade versions remain a grail card for many collectors.

While the 1987 Donruss and Fleer sets are most remembered today, other notable issues from the period included Topps, Score, and Upper Deck. The flagship Topps set that year featured future Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Roger Clemens. Score provided creative photography and die-cuts. Upper Deck also emerged on the scene with their premium cardboard and sharper photography. Each offered memorable rookie cards and snapshots from that memorable MLB season.

While 1987 marked the peak of the junk wax era in terms of production, several truly iconic cards were also produced that have stood the test of time. Rookie cards of Bonds, McGwire, and veterans like Ripken, Ryan, and Smith remain highly coveted by collectors decades later. Their memorable images and connection to baseball history have cemented them as some of the most important cards from the modern era. For those seeking cards from one of the hobby’s most recognizable seasons, 1987 delivers on several fronts.

1987 KMART BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Kmart baseball card set is one of the more intriguing and valuable sets from the junk wax era of the late 1980s. Produced as a special promotion by Kmart stores, the set showcased major league players from that season in vivid color photographs on standard size cards. While the set does not receive as much attention today compared to flagship releases from Topps, Donruss, and Fleer, savvy collectors know there is value to be found in scoping out stars, rookies, and oddball varieties from the Kmart issue.

One of the more appealing aspects of the 1987 Kmart cards lies in the photography and design. Snapped by renowned baseball photographer William R. Glading Jr, the portraits capture the players in crisp detail with vibrant colors that pop off the cardboard. Each player is shown head-on against a plain white or gray background, letting their face and uniform take center stage. Basic card stats are printed on the reverse along with a memorable Kmart slogan “You’ll Love It!” The fronts have a clean look devoid of any logos save for small Kmart and Glading credits in the bottom corners.

While production numbers for the set are unknown, they were likely quite high given Kmart’s widespread retail presence. Not all cards made it to the retail level as promotional inserts were also found in some packs. Perhaps due to the lower hobby shop and show availability compared to the Big Three releases, the 1987 Kmart cards never quite reached junk status and prices have held steady over the decades. Common players in Excellent condition can be had for 50 cents to a dollar while stars command $3-5.

Rookies and prospects in the set that debuted in 1987 include future Hall of Famers Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux for the Atlanta Braves as well as pitcher Bruce Hurst for the Boston Red Sox. All are reasonably priced between $5-10 even in high grade. Those who emerged as true stars have increased value such as Tim Raines’ Excelsior-refractor parallel which nets $40 due to his stolen base prowess for the Montreal Expos. Mark McGwire, slugging for the Oakland A’s in his rookie season, commands $15-20 despite not being a particularly scarce card.

The biggest star and most desired card is unsurprisingly New York Mets phenom Dwight Gooden. Known as “Doc” for his trademark glasses and overpowering fastball, Gooden exploded onto the scene in 1985 by winning Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young award. He followed that up with an equally dominant 24-4 season in 1987 to earn his second straight Cy Young. Gooden’s pristine Kmart portrait captures his boyish cheeks and thick mustache during his playing prime. High grade versions in the $15-25 range are reasonably priced despite his legend, with flawless Mint specimens bringing over $50.

Outside of the stars and prospects, error varieties exist that spike certain players’ values through scarcity alone. The rarest is Gene Garber of the California Angels whose photo is inadvertently printed upside down, fetching upwards of $100 due to the one-of-a-kind mistake. Other oddball varieties include promotional die-cuts and box-top redemption inserts that offer stats and fact parallels. Staple stars like Ozzie Smith, Don Mattingly, and Mike Schmidt command $5-10 each regardless of condition.

While perhaps not as iconic as the major sets, avid collectors appreciate the 1987 Kmart baseball cards for their unique photography and affordable prices across the board. Future Hall of Famers, award winners, and infamous errors make select cards well worth hunting down to add pop and affordability to any junk wax-era collection. With vibrant designs, big names, and a compelling manufacturing backstory, it’s clear to see why this oddball issue from a supermarket chain has endured as a memorable footnote in baseball card history.

1987 TOPPS TIFFANY BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Topps Tiffany baseball cards represent one of the rarest and most valuable sets in the hobby. While the regular 1987 Topps set had a print run estimated at over 350 million cards, the 1987 Topps Tiffany set had an ultra-limited print run believed to be between 1,000-5,000 cards total. This extreme scarcity has driven values for the Tiffany cards into the tens of thousands for the most desirable rookie cards and all-time legends of the game.

What makes the 1987 Topps Tiffany cards so unique and scarce is the paper stock they were printed on. Rather than the standard coated stock Topps used for their mainstream releases, the 1987 Tiffany cards were printed on thinner, lower-gloss paper stock made by Tiffany Paper Company. The end result was cards with a noticeably different feel and appearance compared to the regular issue – they had a much finer texture and were not as glossy.

The small Tiffany print run was exclusively for pack substitutes within boxes of the standard 1987 Topps release. A very tiny percentage of wax boxes contained Tiffany cards mixed into the standard cards. Due to the limited distribution through pack substitutes only, most collectors at the time were unaware these special Tiffany versions even existed. This led to the vast majority being discarded or cared for as commonplace cards. Those that recognized the Tiffany distinction early on were able to slowly pick the set up piecemeal for very reasonable prices in the late 80s/early 90s.

Over the decades since, as interest grew around identifying and collecting the Tiffany variation, values have skyrocketed as fewer and fewer high grade Tiffany rookie cards remained in the available supply. Graded Tiffany rookies now easily cross the $10,000+ threshold, with some examples achieving six-figure prices. One of the more famous Tiffany rookie sales was a PSA 9 Ken Griffey Jr. that sold for $27,800 back in 2012. In 2020, a PSA 9 Griffey Tiffany set a new auction record at Heritage Auctions when it sold for $36,240.

Other coveted Tiffany rookies that command top dollar include Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Gregg Maddux. A PSA 9 Bonds rookie recently sold for $14,700 on eBay, while a PSA 9 McGwire brought $13,000. Starting pitchers aren’t far behind either, as a Tiffany PSA 9 Maddux was worth $5,520 in a November 2021 sale. Even bench players and relievers that went on to have good MLB careers can pop four-figure prices, a testament to how scarce these ultra-high grade specimens remain in the current collector marketplace.

For superstar veterans featured prominently in the 1987 Topps set, high grade Tiffany versions are equally prized by savvy collectors. Iconic talents like Nolan Ryan, Rickey Henderson, Mike Schmidt and Wade Boggs that are associated with their prolific accomplishments in the sport all hold significant cachet when they appear in Tiffany form. A Tiffany Ryan in PSA 9 condition recently sold for $5,520, while a PSA 10 Schmidt was valued at $14,400. Henderson’s Tiffany has reached $6,600 in PSA 9 as well.

Beyond the rookie and star veterans, there are several notable variations and parallels within the 1987 Topps Tiffany checklist that increase rarity and demand even further. This includes traded player variations showing players with their new teams, subset cards like Leaders and Team Leaders, and especially the incredibly scarce Tiffany All-Star cards which feature blue horizontal striping along the borders. Graded examples of these specialized variations regularly eclipse the $10,000 USD price barrier when they surface.

In wrapping up, the 1987 Topps Tiffany set holds a very unique place in the history of sports card collecting due to its incredibly tiny print run, which has kept high grade specimens exceptionally scarce even 35 years after their initial distribution. As baby boomer collectors who remember the 1980s continue liquidating prized possessions to fund retirement, fewer Tiffany cards will be re-entering the available collector pool each passing year. This steady decline in already limited supply sustains strong upward momentum for Tiffany card values long term. For discerning vintage collectors, owning a Tiffany rookie of an all-time great or a specially paralleled Tiffany insert continues to represent a true “endgame” acquisition.

1987 FLEER UPDATE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Fleer Update series marked the first time that Fleer produced a supplemental baseball card set in the middle of the season to highlight new players and major events from that year. While the base 1987 Fleer set was released in February/March as usual, the Update arrived on shelves in July/August and became an annual tradition for Fleer through 2007. The 1987 Update set featured 133 total cards with checklist numbers between U1-U133. While not as iconic or valuable as the base ’87 Fleer issue, the Update set nevertheless provides a fun time capsule of that MLB season and several key rookie cards remain quite collectible and valuable today.

One of the biggest storylines captured in the ’87 Update was the debut of Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Steve Bedrosian. After a breakout season in 1986 that saw him lead the NL in saves, Bedrosian was featured prominently on card U1. While not exactly a true rookie card since he played parts of 3 prior seasons, Bedrosian’s U1 is still one of the keys to the set. High-grade examples in PSA/BGS 10condition have sold for over $100 in recent years. Another Phillies pitcher, defensive stalwart Steve Waterman, received card U84 in his lone Update appearance. Waterman’s card remains quite affordable for Phillies collectors.

Two of the true rookie gems from the ’87 Update are Toronto Blue Jays pitching prospects Dave Stieb (U40) and Mike MacDougal (U67). Both hurlers debuted late that season and continued developing in the Jays system in the late 80s/early 90s. High-grade copies of their rookie cards now sell for $40-70. Another potential Blue Jays breakout was featured, if brief, as outfielder George Bell’s incredible 1987 MVP season is highlighted on card U16. Bell went on to become the first Toronto player to win an MVP award that year.

Not to be outdone, the New York Mets also supplied some rookie talent to the ’87 Update. Hotshot pitching prospect David West (U41) and middle infielder Kevin Elster (U66) both received their sole rookie cards. While neither panned out as all-stars like many had hoped, their Update RC’s remain popular with Mets collectors. Elster in particular has seen recent PSA 10 sales around $75-100 given his status as one of the key rookie cards in the set.

One of the true heavy-hitting gems from the ’87 Update was the rookie card of Chicago White Sox slugging first baseman Frank Thomas (U43). “The Big Hurt” immediately began establishing himself as a future Hall of Famer starting in 1990. High-grade copies of his striking rookie card in aWhite Sox uniform have eclipsed the $1000 mark in pristine PSA 10 condition. Of course, no discussion of the ’87 Update would be complete without mention of the rookie card of legend Ken Griffey Jr. (U45), who was already taking the MLB by storm as a teenage phenom for the Mariners. High-end copies of his legendary rookie currently sell for thousands in top condition.

While not true rookie cards, several star veterans and eventual Hall of Famers like Ozzie Smith (U5), Don Mattingly (U9), Wade Boggs (U17), and Tony Gwynn (U39) highlighted their continued excellence on Update cards as well. These remain favorites for collectors of those all-time great players. On the flip side, the waning careers of aging vets like Luis Tiant (U76) and Tom Seaver (U115) were also acknowledged. Unfortunately, Seaver’s would prove to be his final major league card appearance before retirement.

In all, the 1987 Fleer Updaterepresented a fun mid-season snapshot of that baseball year. While it lacks the true vintage appeal of the base ’87 Fleer set, several key rookie cards like Thomas, Griffey, and others make it an intriguing supplemental set worth exploring for collectors. With condition-sensitive gems like the Elster and Frank Thomas rookies, building a high-grade ’87 Update set remains a lucrative long-term investment even today. It serves as a neat time capsule from when baseball card inserts were still a novel concept in the late 1980s.