Tag Archives: 1987

BEST BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 baseball season was one of great change and excitement in Major League Baseball. New stars were emerging while long-time greats began winding down their legendary careers. This was also reflected in the baseball card releases of that year. While the iconic stars of the past still held prominent spots in the sets, new rookie cards and stars-in-the-making began to take center stage. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable and valuable baseball cards from the 1987 season.

One of the biggest stars of the 1987 season was Oakland A’s slugger Mark McGwire. In just his second full season, McGwire launched an MLB-leading 49 home runs to lead the A’s to a playoff berth. Not surprisingly, McGwire’s rookie card from Topps is one of the most sought-after cards from 1987. In near-mint condition, McGwire’s rookie card can fetch prices upwards of $1,000. While not quite as valuable as some other rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, McGwire’s established himself as one of the game’s premier power hitters right out of the gate.

Another young slugger who had a breakout season in 1987 was Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Fred McGriff. Known as “Crime Dog,” McGriff blasted 36 home runs in just his second season, finishing third in AL MVP voting. McGriff’s rookie card from Donruss is also highly coveted by collectors. Graded mint copies can sell for over $500. McGriff went on to have a Hall of Fame worthy career and his rookie card remains a key piece for 1987 collectors.

While the 1987 rookie class drew much attention, the season was also a transition period for baseball’s elder statesmen. The Baseball Card magazine “Traded” set featured what would be the final baseball cards for a few future Hall of Famers. One of the most iconic is the Traded Nolan Ryan card, featuring the flame-thrower in a Houston Astros uniform. By 1987, Ryan was in the twilight of his career split between the Astros and Astros. His Traded card sells for upwards of $300 in top condition due to its rarity and subject.

Another future Hall of Famer who appeared in his final card in 1987 was San Diego Padres closer Goose Gossage. Like Ryan, Gossage’s “Traded” issue shows him with the Padres, the team he finished his career with after stints with Pittsburgh, New York Yankees, and Chicago White Sox. In pristine condition, Gossage’s final card can sell for over $200. For collectors looking to commemorate the careers of these all-time greats, their 1987 “Traded” cards hold significant nostalgic and monetary value.

While rookie and final cards drew plenty of interest, the true icons of 1987 still reigned supreme in the sets. No player was more iconic than New York Mets third baseman and 1987 NL MVP Darryl Strawberry. Strawberry’s flagship Topps and Donruss cards can be acquired for $50-75 in top-rated condition. Another ’87 standout was Toronto slugger George Bell, who followed up his 1987 AL MVP and World Series title by being well-represented across sets. Bell’s Topps and Donruss issues regularly sell for $25-50.

Two other superstars who remained highly coveted in ’87 sets were Oakland Athletics pitcher Dennis Eckersley and Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tom Browning. Eckersley’s rise to dominance as a closer after struggling as a starter made his ’87 commons highly sought after. In near-mint condition, Eck’s Topps card sells for $15-25. Browning, meanwhile, took home Cy Young honors in ’87 after posting a 20-9 record and 2.53 ERA. His flagship cards can be acquired for $10-20, making them affordable standouts for collectors.

In terms of chase cards and big hits, two of the most valuable from 1987 were the Topps Traded Tiffany Rod Carew and Donruss Preferred Darryl Strawberry. Carew appeared in his final season in 1987 split between the Angels and Twins, making his ’87 Traded Tiffany issue extremely scarce. High-grade copies have sold at auction for over $1,000. Strawberry’s ’87 Donruss Preferred card features a stunning photo and glossy finish, with gem mint 10-graded versions fetching up to $800. For the true high-end collector, these chase cards represented the pinnacle of the ’87 season.

In summing up, 1987 marked both transitions and arrivals of future stars in Major League Baseball. This was reflected in the hobby through memorable rookie cards of McGwire, McGriff and others as well as final cards for all-time greats like Ryan and Gossage. Iconic veterans like Strawberry and Eckersley also remained highly popular. Whether seeking affordable stars or high-end keys, the 1987 season produced cards that resonate strongly to this day for collectors, investors and fans alike. The stars and stories of ’87 left an indelible mark on both the diamond and in the card collecting hobby.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SET WORTH

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. With 702 total cards in the base set, along with additional special subset inserts, the 1987 Topps release featured many of the game’s biggest stars from that era and has developed a strong cult following over the past few decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key factors that contribute to the worth and long-term value of cards from this highly regarded vintage issuance.

One of the main attributes that makes the 1987 Topps set stand out to collectors and investors is the star power it featured. Legends like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, Mike Schmidt, and Don Mattingly were all entering the later stages of their Hall of Fame caliber careers during this period. Young up-and-coming talents like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Roger Clemens were just starting to make names for themselves. Having cards of such iconic players from their athletic primes always adds to the desirability factor long-term.

Another plus is that 1987 saw Derek Jeter, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas make their rookie card debuts in Topps packs that year. While they may not have been the mega-prospects then that they would become, Jeter, Maddux, and Thomas went on to have Cooperstown worthy careers. Their rookie cards, especially the coveted Derek Jeter, now rank among the mostvaluable modern rookie cards in the hobby. For investors, owning graded examples of these rookies could really pay dividends decades after initial purchase.

Beyond star power and rookie cards, the 1987 Topps design itself has become a classic in the eyes of the collecting community. The simple team logo/player headshots on the fronts, with lively action shots on the backs, gave each card a timeless baseball card feel. The color combinations and photo choices also merged well together. Compared to some of the overly Photoshopped or “too cool for school” designs of later years, 1987 Topps felt like a true throwback to the early days of the hobby. This traditionalist aesthetic continues to attract collectors to the set even 35 years later.

Grading and condition of cards is extremely important when assessing the long-term value of any vintage release. From what experts can tell, the 1987 Topps set had above average production quality which has helped many examples hold up very nicely over three+ decades. Population reports from the leading third-party graders show a healthy number of high-grade flagship cards still existing in the marketplace. This includes many star roster cards, team cards, and of course, the star rookie cards. Though not as rare as other pre-1990 sets, condition sensitive collectors still aggressively pursue 1987 Topps gems knowing they will maintain and potentially increase in worth long-term.

In the investment world, supply and demand dictates pricing. With over 700 base cards issued in 1987 Topps, there exists a larger pool of copies for most standard players compared to smaller checklist sets from the 1950s-1970s. As the original collector base from the late 80s ages and the hobby continues gaining new generations of fans, demand for classic 1980s cardboard like 1987 Topps remains strong. Some industry analysts project hobby growth could start to restrict supplies of even larger vintage releases like ’87 Topps within the next 10-20 years. Such potential long-term “buyer’s market restrictions” should keep prices rising steadily for key stars and serial numbered parallel issues.

Beyond just the base cards, subsets found in 1987 Topps are also highly invested in by collectors. The ’87 Topps Traded set, featuring stars that switched teams in 1986, holds value comparable to the flagship series. The Strikinglikeness celebrity subset has become a cult favorite. And high-grade versions of the limited release All-Star Record Breakers/Team Turnbacks subsets can demand four-figure prices. Even inserts like themed Minis and Test Issue samples maintain investor interest in the current collecting environment. Depending on condition, virtually any insert or parallel variation from this era retains lasting collectibility.

Of course, like any other vintage release, absolute gem mint condition exemplars in 1987 Topps will be the true blue-chip crown jewels that appreciate the most dramatically over long periods. The highest graded Jeter and Maddux rookies have eclipsed six-figure prices. But more importantly, across nearly the entire base and insert checklist, strong examples still trade actively on third-party auction sites. This continued marketplace liquidity assures collectors 1987 Topps cards, even standard stars and commons, can still serve as a sound store of value three decades after packs were originally opened.

For both collectors and investors, the 1987 Topps baseball card set provides outstanding qualities that will endure for generations to come. Between the historic players, iconic design, and proven track record of holding strong secondary values long-term, this issue remains one of the cornerstone releases that any portfolio aiming for durable cardboard assets simply can’t afford to ignore. Whether purchased raw or already professionally graded, allocating to choice pieces from the ’87 Topps set is an investment likely to appreciate nicely for decades and give ongoing enjoyment along the way. The unforgettable stars, vibrant photography, and time-tested brand recognition ensure 1987 Topps will forever remain one of the hobby’s true classics.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 baseball card market produced some of the most iconic and valuable cards in the history of the hobby. Powered by emerging stars like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Bo Jackson, the ‘87 set featured several rookies and short prints that have stood the test of time and appreciated dramatically in value. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most noteworthy ‘87 cards and what makes them so coveted among collectors today.

Perhaps the biggest star of the ‘87 set is the Barry Bonds rookie card. Considered one of the true ‘holy grails’ of the hobby, the Bonds rookie debuted him as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. What makes this card so rare is that Bonds only played in 12 games for the Pirates in ‘87 before being recalled to the minors for more seasoning. As a result, the Bonds rookie is one of the shortest printed rookie cards in history. In near mint condition, a PSA 10 graded Barry Bonds rookie now fetches well over $100,000 at auction. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8-9 condition can pull in $10,000-20,000 due to his legendary career and status as one of the game’s all-time great home run hitters.

Another phenom whose rookie emerged in ‘87 was Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s. Like Bonds, McGwire went on to smash the single-season home run record during his career. Also like Bonds, the McGwire rookie is scarce since he only played in 19 games in ‘87 before being sent back down. PSA 10 copies have cracked $20,000 at auction in recent years, with lower graded versions still commanding four figures. What makes the McGwire even more sought after is the distinctive powder blue Athletics uniform featured on the card. It’s viewed as one of the more aesthetically pleasing designs from the late ‘80s/early ‘90s.

While not quite in the same stratosphere as Bonds or McGwire, the Bo Jackson rookie from ‘87 remains a true hot commodity vintage card. As one of the greatest athletes of all-time to play multiple pro sports, Jackson’s sheer rarity and athletic achievements create huge demand. His rookie was preceded by an electric promotional campaign featuring him on the cover of Sports Illustrated with the headline “Bo Knows Sports.” This advertising blitz helped turn Jackson into a pop culture icon overnight. High-grade Jackson rookies have hit five figures, though most examples trade in the $3,000-$6,000 range. Even damaged or low-graded copies retain value north of $1,000 since they were only produced during his short 11 game MLB stint in ‘87.

Besides elite rookies, the ‘87 set had a few standout veterans who’ve sustained strong collector interest too. A card that regularly trades for four figures is the UD Johnny Bench card numbered to ‘87.’ Bench was a Hall of Fame catcher for the Cincinnati Reds who revolutionized the position, but inexplicably his only ‘87 card was released by Upper Deck as an unlicensed afterthought issue that same year. With a tiny print run estimated under 1,000 copies, the Bench UD has ascended to the upper echelon or short print collector favorites. Graded specimens range from $8,000-$20,000 depending on condition.

Another coveted short print is the error-featuring Ozzie Smith card from ‘87 Fleer. On a small subset of the cards, Smith’s name was misspelled “Ozzi” on the front. This one-of-a-kind typo mistake makes the cards extremely rare, with experts putting unconfirmed production under 10 copies. One “Ozzi” Smith error sold for over $50,000 back in 2007. Even unconfirmed error copies without a typo bring big money since they are erroneously thought to possibly contain the elusive misprint.

Outside of standout rookies and stars, sets from the ‘80s like ‘87 Donruss and Topps are starting to gain appreciation for their colorful uniform and card designs. Players like Wade Boggs, Nolan Ryan, and Tony Gwynn had memorable seasons captured on these classic cards. High-grade specimens of Hall of Famers in iconic uniforms can crack four figures raw. For example, a PSA 10 1986 Nolan Ryan from Donruss traded hands for over $5,000 back in 2018.

The 1987 baseball card market debuted some of the greatest players in history and featured innovative short prints that have strengthened over time. Powered by stars like Bonds, McGwire, and Jackson, the flagship rookies hold regal status. Meanwhile, parallels like the Bench UD and Ozzie Smith error maintain mystique among collectors. For enthusiasts of the late ‘80s vintage era in particular, ‘87 remains the gift that keeps on giving when it comes to appreciation, demand, and unprecedented card values.

ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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1987 was a seminal year for rookie baseball cards for several key reasons. Not only was the 1987 rookie class heralded as one of the strongest and most talent-laden classes of all-time, headlined by future Hall of Famers such as Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas, but several marketing and production changes within the baseball card industry made 1987 rookie cards particularly desirable for collectors.

The 1987 rookie class itself featured a dazzling array of future stars and among the most iconic rookie cards ever produced. Barry Bonds, destined to become the all-time home run king, had his iconic rookie card produced by Topps that year. A young Greg Maddux, who would go on to rack up 355 career wins, had his rookie card debut in 1987 Topps as well. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Fred McGriff, a future 5-time all-star and 493 career home run hitter, had his rookie card produced in 1987 Donruss. And perhaps the crown jewel of the class, Chicago White Sox designated hitter Frank Thomas, who would smash 521 homers in his career en route to a Hall of Fame plaque, had his monstrous rookie card in 1987 Fleer.

Beyond Thomas, Bonds, Maddux, and McGriff, the class also featured such future stars as Kenny Lofton, Chuck Knoblauch, Mark Grace, Darren Daulton, and David Justice. Collectively, this class went on to accumulate over 15,000 hits, 3,500 home runs, and more than 23,000 total bases over their careers. Their 1987 rookie cards rightly gained a reputation as some of the most iconic and valuable in the hobby.

While a star-studded rookie class certainly brought excitement and added cachet to 1987 rookie cards, there were also significant structural changes happening within the baseball card industry at the time which further elevated interest in cards from that year. In 1987, Sport Americana acquired the exclusive license to produce baseball cards from the Major League Baseball Players Association, making them the sole producers of licensed baseball cards beginning in 1988.

As a result, 1987 became the final year that the “Big 3” producers at the time – Topps, Donruss, and Fleer – would all share the baseball card license. Knowing it could be their last year competing together, each company took creative liberties and pushed production numbers in unprecedented ways. Fleer experimented with innovative new sets like “Rookie Crusade” while Donruss introduced artistic variations like their “Diamond Kings” parallels. At the same time, Topps produced their record-setting 1987 set featuring 792 total cards amid heightened competition.

The combination of a once-in-a-generation rookie class with record production numbers, creative new sets, and looming exclusive licenses all contributed to 1987 rookie cards gaining immense popularity and securing their place as some of the most iconic and historically important cards ever made. With the “Big 3’s” competitive partnership ending after that season, ’87s took on an aura of rarity as the final cards produced cooperatively by all three rival companies vying for collectors’ dollars.

On the secondary market, demand and prices for star 1987 rookies skyrocketed in the ensuing decades. Armed with Hall of Fame careers and surrounded by nostalgia for 1980s-era cards, gems like the Bonds, McGriff, and Frank Thomas rookies regularly eclipse six figures even in low grades. The cultural cachet of 1980s cards combined with the sustained excellence of that 1987 rookie class has elevated many of those raw rookies to auction records topping $1 million USD for the most coveted examples.

For dedicated vintage collectors, finding and acquiring any 1987 rookie in high grade remains a tremendous thrill of the hobby more than thirty years later. And for casual collectors just becoming interested in the period, 1987s retain immense nostalgic appeal and represent arguably the highest concentration of future baseball legends ever debuted in a single set. Between a dream rookie class and significant changes shaping the industry, 1987 undeniably marked a watershed year for the creation of some of the most valuable and beloved rookie cards in the hobby’s history.

The combination of a once-in-generation-talented 1987 rookie class headlined by future Hall of Famers like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas alongside myriad structural changes within the baseball card industry perfectly positioned 1987 rookie cards to achieve iconic status. Their immense popularity and rarity has driven values of the stars of that class to new heights, cementing many ‘87s as the most prestigious and valuable vintage rookie cards ever made.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set featured some cards that have become highly sought after by collectors in the decades since. While the overall base set design was nothing particularly special consisting of classic Fleer black borders and team logo designs, there were several rookie cards and unique photo variations that made this set stand out. Chief among the key cards from the 1987 Fleer baseball release were those of future Hall of Famer Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire in his rookie season, and a very rare Roger Clemens printing plate proof.

Let’s start with the rookie card of Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder Barry Bonds. As the son of former major leaguer Bobby Bonds, Barry was highly touted coming up through the minor leagues and his debut Fleer card captured him at the beginning of what would become a truly historic career. Over 22 seasons mainly with the Pirates and San Francisco Giants, Barry Bonds would smash the all-time home run record with 762 and win a record seven NL MVP awards cementing his place as one of the greatest players of all time. His 1987 Fleer rookie is one of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever produced with high grade examples often fetching tens of thousands of dollars or more at auction.

Another massive star featured as a rookie in the 1987 Fleer set was Oakland Athletics first baseman Mark McGwire. Known as “Big Mac,” McGwire smashed 49 home runs in his first full season in the majors and was recognized nationally after putting on an incredible power display down the stretch and into the playoffs. While injuries would hamper his career at times, McGwire later broke the single season home run record in 1998 alongside Sammy Sosa fueling renewed interest in the game. In pristine mint condition, McGwire’s rookie card today can sell for well over $10,000 showcasing the star power appeal of one of baseball’s most prolific sluggers.

Perhaps the true hidden gem among the 1987 Fleer cards though was the printing plate proof of Boston Red Sox ace pitcher Roger Clemens. Only one is believed to have been produced during Fleer’s platemaking process prior to the actual print run. This ultra-rare Clemens card has his name and complete stats on the back but features an uncut sheet with nine card fronts from the printing plate itself. Incredibly unique and arguably the most desirable baseball card in existence, the Clemens printing plate has sold at public auction for over $100,000 when it has become available demonstrating its importance as a true one-of-a-kind treasure for memorabilia collectors.

The high values seen for the best examples of the Bonds, McGwire, and Clemens ’87 Fleer cards are understandable given not only their place among the earliest representations of these legends’ careers but also the fact that the entire print run for the base set was much smaller compared to modern issues. Fleer produced only 150,000 series 1 wax packs which contained five random cards each meaning the player count for the base set was under 1 million total. By comparison, today’s sets sometimes exceed production levels 100 times larger. This naturally makes each individual card much scarcer and more desirable for collectors.

Besides the standout rookie cards, there were other notable star players and photo variations that added to the appeal of the 1987 Fleer set. For example, cards featuring sluggers like Wade Boggs, Darryl Strawberry, and Don Mattingly regularly attract bids in the hundreds of dollars for top-graded examples. Likewise, the Tim Raines ‘error’ card where the player’s name is misspelled “Tug Raines” has been known to sell for over $1,000 due to its one-of-a-kind status. There was also a ‘bat boy’ variation featuring an unfamiliar extra person in shot that is highly collected.

In summarizing what has made the 1987 Fleer baseball issue a true collector’s set of renown, it begins with starring early portrayals of eventually all-time legends like Bonds and McGwire. It also features a one-of-a-kind printing plate card that may be the most significant baseball collectible period. Factor in the very small original print numbers compared to later years and you have a set with inherent scarcity that continues to gain recognition and value decades after its production. For dedicated card collectors, owning a high quality example of a key player from the 1987 Fleer release stands as a trophy acquisition and sound long term investment in the rich history of the hobby.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. Though not the flashiest design compared to modern sets, the ’87 Topps release featured several young stars who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers as well as key rookie cards that remain highly desired by collectors today. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards that can fetch big money for enthusiasts.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#149) – Probably the most well-known and coveted card from the ’87 set, Junior’s rookie is the undisputed heavyweight champion in value. Even low-grade examples in Poor-Fair condition can sell for well over $1,000. Near Mint copies have sold for over $10,000 and a pristine Mint condition card reached an amazing $25,200 at auction in 2018, setting the current record price for any ’87 Topps card. Griffey was just starting to showcase his prodigious five-tool talents as a 17-year old with the Mariners and would go on to have a Hall of Fame career. His rookie is the cream of the crop for ’87 collectors.

Barry Larkin Rookie Card (#180) – The smooth-fielding shortstop for the Reds had a tremendous 19-year big league career that landed him in Cooperstown. Larkin’s freshman Topps issue is the second most expensive behind Griffey’s, with high-grade copies selling in the $2,000-$5,000 range. Mint 9 rookies have brought over $10,000. An ultra-rare factory error version without the “BARRY LARKIN” nameplate stamped on it is the true holy grail, valued well over six figures if it ever surfaces publicly. Larkin was a star from the beginning and his rookie remains a crown jewel for many collectors.

Mark McGwire Rookie Card (#166) – Before he owned the single-season home run record, “Big Mac” was just starting to display the prodigious power that would make him a star with the A’s. His ’87 Topps rookie is highly significant as McGwire’s earliest mass-produced card appearance. High-grade copies in the Mint 8-9 range have sold for around $1,000, with true Near Mint 10 specimens reaching the $2,000 mark. While not in Griffey/Larkin territory, McGwire’s freshman issue is highly coveted as one of the best power hitter cards from the decade.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (#141) – The smooth lefty went on to 300 career wins and 2 Cy Young Awards for the Braves, but was just a rookie in 1987 with the Mets. Glavine’s first Topps card still garners strong demand from collectors given his Hall of Fame career. Pristine Mint 9 copies have reached the $800-$1,000 price point in recent years. Near Mint 8 versions are found in the $300-$500 range. As one of the set’s more notable pitcher rookies, Glavine’s card maintains relevance and value decades later.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (#632) – Mad Dog followed up his ’86 Donruss rookie with this sophomore issue from Topps as a 21-year old with the Cubs. Already showcasing pinpoint control and movement, Maddux was on his way to a storied career and four career Cy Youngs. High-end Near Mint+ copies of his ’87 Topps card have topped $500 price-wise. The more affordable Mint 9 condition level still fetches around $250. Like teammate Glavine, owning a piece of Maddux’s early cardboard is a priority for devoted Cubs and baseball card collectors alike.

Nolan Ryan (#167) – As one of the most distinguished and accomplished pitchers in MLB history, any early Ryan issue demands attention. This action shot from his days with the Astros depicts the fireballer in his prime. Gem Mint 10 copies have reached $400. Most Near Mint+ editions trade hands in the $150-$250 range. While not quite the value of his true rookie cards several years prior, Ryan’s intimidating stare on his ’87 Topps issues is still an imposing sight for enthusiasts.

Other Valuable Stars – Additional sought-after ’87s outside the rookies include #1 Kirby Puckett ($150-250 NM), #91 Dwight Gooden ($100-200 NM), #232 Ozzie Smith ($75-150 NM), #239 Wade Boggs ($60-100 NM), and #277 Roger Clemens ($50-100 NM). Lower-print late additions like #711 Darryl Strawberry and #720 Don Mattingly also carry strong demand. For older veteran stars popular in the ’80s, high-grade copies of #10 Steve Carlton, #62 Nolan Ryan, #129 Mike Schmidt, and #152 George Brett can reach $50-75 each as well.

Error Cards – Beyond the conventional rookie cards, errors and anomalies hold tremendous collector interest from the ’87 set. One-of-a-kind errors like the Larkin nameplate misprint are holy grails. Lesser known errors like inverted backs, missing ink lines, crooked registration blocks also exist. Even non-errors like #1 update cards which represented late roster changes have a following. With over 700 total cards to scour, ’87 still reveals mysteries three decades later.

The 1987 Topps baseball set is among the most beloved by collectors for good reason. Capturing many future Hall of Famers in their earliest cardboard appearances combined with quirky errors and one-of-a-kind variations, it’s a veritable time capsule of the late 1980s game. Anchored by incredible stars like Griffey, Larkin, McGwire and others, the high-end rookie cards remain blue-chip investments. Even common players from the set maintain relevancy and nostalgic appeal decades later for enthusiasts. For both career value and nostalgia factors, ’87 Topps cemented its status as one of the hobby’s true landmark issues.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PACK

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was the 66th year Topps had produced baseball cards and featured 660 total cards issued in wax paper packs. Some key things to know about the 1987 Topps baseball card packs that were released that year:

The 1987 set featured all 26 major league teams from 1986 and included rookie cards for future all-stars like Johnny Damon, Mo Vaughn, and Juan González. The set also included traded players cards showing players with their new teams even if they had not yet played a game for that club. This added to the intrigue of the set for young collectors.

Inside each 1987 Topps baseball card wax paper pack, collectors would find five random cards with one of the cards featuring a player photograph and the other four being common player or manager/coach cards. The packs retailed for around $0.50-0.75 each depending on the local retailer. This allowed young collectors to purchase multiple packs to search for their favorite players or chase after elusive chase cards.

Inside each pack, there was also a blank white sheet called the “pinch hitter” card that was included to take up the space of what would have been a gum piece in older Topps sets before the removal of gum citing choking hazards. This pinch hitter card was essentially the same size as a normal card but had no image or stats printed on it.

One of the most coveted and valuable rookie cards in the 1987 Topps set was that of future Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. debuting as an 18-year old for the Seattle Mariners. Griffey’s rookie card showed him turning and looking back over his shoulder. Only appearing in packs at about a 1 in 10 box ratio, Griffey’s rookie quickly became one of the most sought after cards by collectors. PSA 10 Mint copies of this card now sell for thousands of dollars.

Other key rookie cards in 1987 Topps included skateboarding pitcher Bret Saberhagen’s final rookie from the Kansas City Royals, Kevin Mitchell’s debut for the San Francisco Giants, and catcher Ivan Rodriguez’s first card as a 19-year old for the Texas Rangers. These three players would go on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers making their rookie cards quite valuable today, especially in high grades.

The 1987 Topps set had several unique reverse negative printing errors that fascinate error card collectors to this day. Negative printed cards were essentially printed out of register with the photo appearing in reverse tone on the card. Some of the more notable reverse negative errors include cards for Steve Sax, Bob Horner, and Eddie Murray. These misprints can sell for much more than a standard card.

Beyond the player cards, the 1987 Topps set included various oddball parallel subsets that added to the allure and expanded the amount of cards. These included an NBC Late Night insert set featuring Johnny Carson and host Jay Leno, Topps Traded cards showing interleague trades from that season, an All-Star Cameo subset, and Team Leaders/Award Winners parallels as well.

To commemorate Jackie Robinson breaking the MLB color barrier, Topps included a special 6-card photo montage tribute insert set within 1987 packs. This helped educate and pay respect to younger collectors about Robinson’s impact on integrating professional baseball. Other popular inserts included Sandy Koufax’s retirement, Roger Clemens’ 20 strikeout game, and Nolan Ryan’s 5000th strikeout.

In the late 1980s, the trading card market was booming with the combination of the rise of the MLB and increased discretionary spending amongst children and teenagers. This created massive popularity for sets like 1987 Topps which showcased the biggest stars of that era like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith on the front of packs. Kids ripped open thousands upon thousands of these packs to build and trade their collections.

While production numbers for the 1987 Topps series are not definitively published, industry experts estimate around 60 million total cards were printed based on sales figures shared over the decades. This massive print run met demand but also explains why most common cards hold little monetary value today outside of high grades. The historical significance and popularity of the late 80s sets still draws collectors and investors to chase key rookie and parallel cards.

In the end, the 1987 Topps baseball card set beautifully captured that magical season on the diamond. For children of the era, eagerly tearing open those iconic green, red, and white Topps packs to build their collections created lifelong memories and helped fuel a multi-billion dollar industry. Even with the simple cards inside, the mystique of what players might be found inside added so much charm and excitement for baseball during the heyday of the trading card boom.

FLEER 1987 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the late 1980s. Coming on the heels of Topps’ popular 1986 set and Donruss’ entrance into the baseball card market in 1985, Fleer was looking to make a splash with its revamped design and photography. The 1987 set would mark Fleer’s return to producing baseball cards after a decade-long hiatus.

Fleer had previously issued baseball cards from 1956 to 1967 but lost the license to produce cards to Topps in 1971. In the intervening years, Topps had solidified its position as the industry leader while Donruss was gaining steam. Seeking to challenge the duopoly, Fleer re-entered the baseball card market in 1987 with a modernized look that featured vivid colors and cropped action shots of players.

The design elements that set the 1987 Fleer cards apart included a blue and yellow color scheme with each player featured on a light blue background. Names and positions were printed in bold yellow text at the bottom while the Fleer logo appeared prominently in the upper right corner. Close-up portraits replaced the more traditional full body shots seen on other brands. The photography aimed to highlight each athlete’s skills and put fans right in the action.

Distribution of the 1987 Fleer set was also wider than previous years. Whereas Topps and Donruss primarily sold through hobby shops, Fleer secured deals with mass retailers like Kmart, Walmart, and Target. This broad availability helped drive awareness and popularity for the brand among casual collectors. The large retail footprint allowed Fleer to print cards in higher numbers than competitors as well.

Rookies and young stars of the day like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, and Greg Maddux were some of the most sought after cards in the 1987 Fleer checklist. Future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Tony Gwynn also appeared prominently. The design accentuated each player’s skills through tight close-ups and dynamic action poses that captured them in the midst of a swing, throw, or other baseball maneuver.

One of the standout rookie cards from the 1987 Fleer set was Ken Griffey Jr. As one of the most hyped prospects in baseball history, Griffey’s card attracted immense interest from the hobby. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless athleticism were on full display in his rookie card photo. While Griffey wouldn’t reach superstardom until later in his career with the Seattle Mariners, his 1987 Fleer RC is among the most iconic and valuable in the entire set today. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples routinely sell for well over $10,000.

Other notable rookies included Mark Grace, Gregg Olson, and Bobby Thigpen. Fleer also included Update and Traded sets to account for players who were traded or called up throughout the season. These supplemental releases added even more to the overall checklist. The Update set was particularly coveted by collectors looking to get cards of players who made their debut later in 1987.

Beyond the photography and design, the 1987 Fleer set also introduced innovations in production quality that set a new standard. Each card was printed on thicker, higher grade stock paper that made them feel premium in the hand. Sharp registration and vivid colors resulted in images that really popped compared to earlier card issues. The attention to these details demonstrated Fleer’s commitment to advancing the visual experience for collectors.

When all was said and done, the 1987 Fleer baseball card set was a resounding success that helped the brand gain significant market share. Its estimated print run was around 400 million cards, making individual common cards readily available even today. While the glut of production depressed initial values, the vibrant photography and iconic rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey have kept 1987 Fleer among the most revered issues in the hobby. The positive reception also paved the way for Fleer to remain a long-term competitor in the baseball card industry.

In the decades since, the 1987 Fleer set has taken on an almost mythical status. While the sheer numbers printed kept individual cards relatively affordable, the perfect storm of design, rookies, and retail availability captured the imagination of a generation of collectors. For many, those bright blue backgrounds and action shots were their first exposure to the hobby. Even now, the 1987 Fleer cards remain a touchstone release that defined late 80s baseball cards and helped shape the modern collecting landscape.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 DWIGHT GOODEN

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The 1987 baseball season was a memorable one for New York Mets phenom Dwight Gooden. After an historic rookie campaign in 1984 and an equally impressive follow up season in 1985 that saw him win the National League Cy Young award, Gooden was still establishing himself as one of the game’s premier young power pitchers. Now entering his third full season in the big leagues at just 22 years old, Gooden was poised to take his rightful place among the elite aces in baseball. Topps was there to commemorate another stellar season from Doc Gooden with its 1987 baseball card release, featuring one of the most iconic individual cards from that year in his base rookie card.

Coming off back-to-back seasons with 19 wins and an ERA below 3.00, expectations were tremendously high for Gooden heading into 1987. He had cemented his status as the ace of the Mets staff and one of the faces of the entire franchise. Naturally, Topps wanted to highlight Gooden with one of the premier rookie cards in its 1987 set. The design of Gooden’s base card follows the vertical format Topps adopted that year, with his name in block letters across the top. Gooden is shown in his classic Mets home pinstripe uniform, glaring intensely at the camera with his signature sideways cap slightly cocked. The intense, laser-focused stare captured in his photo truly captures the fiery competitiveness and will to dominate that made Gooden one of the era’s most fearsome pitchers.

The stats listed on the 1987 Gooden base card show just how elite he had become in only his first two full seasons in the majors. In 1984 as a rookie, he went 17-9 with a 2.60 ERA and 268 strikeouts in 218 innings pitched, numbers that were practically unfathomable for a teenager just out of high school. His follow up season in 1985 was somehow even better, as he went 24-4 with a 1.53 ERA and 268 strikeouts in 276 innings to capture the NL Cy Young. The excitement around Gooden heading into 1987 was insurmountable, and Topps acknowledged that with an iconic rookie card capture of arguably the best young pitcher in baseball at that moment. As the season would unfold however, Gooden’s 1987 campaign would not match the lofty standards he had set for himself.

While Gooden stayed mostly healthy in 1987 and still managed to lead the National League with 18 wins for a Mets team that won the division, his overall performance regressed a bit from his otherworldly 1985 season. His ERA ballooned to 3.19, his highest since his rookie year, and his strikeouts dropped from 268 to 203 in 227 innings pitched. Gooden later admitted struggles with alcohol and partying had begun affecting his performance and recovery, showing the peril of fame and expectations for young stars. Despite the statistical decline, Gooden was still a horse for the Mets staff and performed like an ace, throwing 11 complete games. At just 23 years old, most viewed 1987 as a minor setback for what was expected to be a Hall of Fame career still in its early stages.

Topps clearly still believed in Gooden and featured him prominently across multiple cards in its 1987 set beyond just his iconic base rookie card. Gooden received an “All-Star” card highlighting his selection to the National League team that season. He was also included in the “Shoeless” Joe Jackson traded subset, which paid tribute to baseball legends by putting current stars in vintage uniforms. Gooden’s 1987 season may have been a relative disappointment compared to 1985, but he remained one of the most sought-after young stars in the game. As a result, his base rookie card and other Topps cards from that year retain tremendous collector value as revered artifacts from Doc Gooden’s early pitching peak with the Mets.

While injuries and personal issues would derail Gooden’s career prematurely in later years, his 1987 Topps cards stand as a reminder of how dominating he was at his best in the mid-80s. The intense stare captured in his photo, coupled with the glistening stats from his first two seasons, make his 1987 base rookie one of the most iconic individual cards from that entire set. Even after his numbers dipped a bit that year, Gooden was still viewed as arguably the best young arm in baseball. Topps recognized this with prominent cards showcasing his ongoing status as a budding superstar, headlined by perhaps the defining image of his career etched on his classic 1987 base rookie card. Over 30 years later, those pieces of cardboard continue to fascinate collectors with what they represent about Gooden’s eminence during baseball’s golden era.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS IN 1987

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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