Tag Archives: 1987

BEST 1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular and highly collected issues from the late 1980s. While not as iconic or valuable as some other vintage sets from that era, the ’87 Donruss cards still hold nostalgia for many collectors and contain some true gem cards that are highly sought after to this day. With 792 total cards in the base set plus additional inserts, the 1987 Donruss release featured a wide range of stars, rookies, and future Hall of Famers to keep collectors busy searching packs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from this classic 80s release.

One of the most coveted rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set is none other than Toronto Blue Jays slugger John Olerud. As the #3 overall pick in the 1989 draft, Olerud went on to have a stellar 17-year MLB career and was known for his elite batting eye and consistency at the plate. His rookie card is a true gem in pristine condition due to its rarity and the player’s accomplishments. Graded examples in Mint condition regularly sell for well over $100. Another highly sought rookie is that of Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Curt Schilling. Though he wouldn’t break out as a true ace until later in his career, Schilling established himself as one of the game’s best postseason pitchers of all time. His ’87 Donruss RC remains quite valuable to this day.

In terms of superstar veterans, few can top the 1987 Donruss card of New York Mets first baseman Keith Hernandez. Already a seasoned veteran and coming off a World Series title with the Mets, Hernandez’s smooth left-handed swing made him one of the best hitters of the 1980s. His card remains one of the most iconic from the set. Another true icon from the late 80s is Oakland Athletics slugger Jose Canseco. Already well on his way to 40/40 status, Canseco’s rookie season power surge made him a fan favorite. His ’87 Donruss issue shows him in the classic A’s yellow and green colors and is a highly collectible card for any fan of the Bash Brother era.

Two other true Hall of Fame talents that are highly sought in the 1987 Donruss set are Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones and Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tom Seaver. As one of the greatest switch hitters in MLB history, Jones’ rookie card holds nostalgia for collectors of the era. Seaver meanwhile was already a first-ballot Hall of Famer by 1987 but remained a dominant force on the mound. Both cards command strong prices today. Another Braves star, pitcher Tom Glavine, has one of the nicer rookie cards from the set as well. Glavine would go on to have a first-ballot HOF career mostly with the Braves and Mets.

In terms of oddball cards that stand out, the 1987 Donruss set featured “Traded” variants for players that switched teams in the offseason. Notable examples include the traded cards of slugger Andre Dawson (from Cubs to Red Sox) and pitcher Nolan Ryan (from the Astros to the Astros). Both were superstar veterans by 1987 and their traded variants carry premiums. The set is also known for its “Diamond Kings” parallel subset, which featured foil treatment on a selection of star players. High-grade examples of Diamond Kings cards for the likes of Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Rickey Henderson are big ticket items.

When it comes to team sets, collectors love to track down complete runs featuring their favorite franchises. Popular team sets from the 1987 Donruss issue include the Toronto Blue Jays, led by rookie sensation Olerud; the New York Mets, powered by Hernandez and others; and the Oakland Athletics, headlined by Canseco. Other strong team sets include those of the Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and Atlanta Braves. For collectors focused on a specific franchise, completing the 1987 Donruss team set can be a fun and rewarding collecting goal.

While not the most iconic vintage baseball card set, 1987 Donruss remains hugely popular with collectors due to its memorable rookie cards, true superstar veterans of the era, and nostalgia for 80s baseball cards in general. Keys like the Olerud, Schilling, and Canseco rookies as well as stars like Hernandez, Jones, and Seaver ensure this issue stays relevant in the hobby. For anyone collecting cards from the late 80s, finding and completing team sets from the 1987 Donruss release is a must. The combination of stars, oddballs, and parallels in this 792-card base set provide something for everyone.

KMART BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 Kmart baseball card set was one of the more popular and iconic sports card issues of the late 1980s. At a time when the baseball card industry was booming, Kmart launched its own successful house brand of cards that became coveted by collectors both young and old. The 1987 set showcased every Major League player and even included short biographies on the backs of each card. With its affordable prices and wide distribution through Kmart stores, the 1987 Kmart baseball cards captured the attention of a generation of fans and created many lifelong collectors.

Kmart had released baseball cards under its name in prior years but the 1987 set stands out as one of the most complete and noteworthy issues. That season was a pivotal one in Major League Baseball as well, with players like Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, and Tom Glavine beginning to make their mark on the league. Capturing the stars of that era for a mass-market price point helped the 1987 Kmart cards find immense popularity. The set totaled 792 cards and featured every player on a Major League roster at the start of the 1987 season, with separate cards for regular season and playoff/World Series performance.

Perhaps the biggest draw of the 1987 Kmart baseball cards was their affordable price. At a time when the hobby was getting increasingly expensive, with premium wax packs from Topps and Donruss costing $1 or more each, Kmart sold its entire base set of 792 cards for just $9.99. For collectors on a budget or kids pestering their parents at the checkout aisle, the Kmart cards offered an entry point into the exciting world of sports card collecting. Their widespread availability through Kmart stores across America also made them highly accessible.

In addition to the full-blown roster set of 792 cards, Kmart also sold smaller subsets at slightly lower prices. These included a 100-card “mini-set” of the Top 100 hitters, a 50-card subset of rookie cards, and 100-card sets focusing on pitchers or specific leagues/divisions. Kmart even produced special “traded” subset cards to depict player transactions that occurred after the regular season rosters were finalized. All of these extra cards added tremendous variety and chase appeal to the overall 1987 Kmart issue.

The design aesthetic of the 1987 Kmart cards was straightforward yet effective. On the front, each card featured a simple black-and-white player photo along with the team nameplate and player identifiers. The backs provided statistics from the previous season as well as a 30-40 word biography of each player highlighting career achievements up to that point. While not as flashy as higher-end issues from Topps, Donruss, or Fleer, the Kmart cards offered enjoyable retro designs that have stood the test of time. They remained decidedly “vintage” even as newer technologies were adopted across the wider hobby.

When it came to condition and durability, the 1987 Kmart baseball cards were constructed on thicker stock paper compared to earlier Kmart issues or budget brands from that era. While not quite on par with the slickness of gum-included trading cards, the thicker paper helped the Kmart cards hold up reasonably well to the rigors of being endlessly shuffled, sorted, and traded by enthusiastic young collectors. Light surface scuffs or edge wear affected most examples found today but serious damage is comparatively rare for a set that was so widely circulated in its time.

In the years since their 1987 release, the Kmart baseball card set has achieved strong nostalgia appeal and recognition as an iconic piece of sports card history. On the thriving vintage trading card market, complete sets routinely command over $200 while especially desirable rookie cards from the likes of Barry Bonds or Tom Glavine can exceed $100 individually. The affordability and widespread distribution that made them a hit in 1987 is now complemented by the warmth of nostalgia they invoke. Cleaner examples graded by services like PSA also bring premium prices from intense completionists seeking pristine copies of their childhood cardboard treasures.

For any collector, researcher, or fan interested in understanding the 1980s baseball card boom period, the 1987 Kmart issue stands out as an important touchpoint. It showed how the marriage of Major League rosters, budget pricing, and wide retail distribution could create a true mass-market phenomenon. For countless kids and adults at the time, it was also likely their first experience opening wax packs and admiring the photocards of their baseball heroes. Over 35 years later, those memories and the allure of the players featured still give the 1987 Kmart baseball cards a treasured spot in hobby history.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was the 21st annual release from the Fleer company and it featured 660 total cards including short prints and variations. It marked Fleer’s first year being the sole producer of major league baseball cards after Topps lost its exclusive license at the end of 1986. Some key things to know about the 1987 Fleer set include:

Rookie Cards – The 1987 set featured the rookie cards of several future all-stars and hall of famers including Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. McGwire’s rookie became one of the most iconic and valuable cards of the 1980s and 90s baseball boom. Larkin and Maddux would both go on to have hall of fame careers while Glavine won over 300 games in the majors. Other top rookies included Lenny Dykstra, Scott Radinsky, and Jeff Montgomery.

Design – Fleer took a unique design approach for 1987 by using a blue and white color scheme for most of the base cards. They featured action shots of players on a blue background with white borders and lettering. The design was a bit darker and subtler than previous Fleer and Topps issues. Close-up headshot photos were also used more prominently than previous years.

Short Prints – Fleer included several short printed parallel sets within the 1987 issue that were much harder to find. The “Glossy Sendbacks” featured glossy photos on 100 of the base cards and became highly sought after by collectors. All-Star cards for Andre Dawson, Wade Boggs, and Jim Rice were also in extremely short supply. Finding a complete set with all the short prints became very difficult.

Variations – In addition to short prints, Fleer also included photo and statistical variations on certain cards that were even more elusive. Most notably, Mark McGwire’s rookie card had a variation where his batting stance was different. Kirby Puckett also had a variation where his uniform number was listed as 37 instead of 34. Variations added another layer of complexity to completing the 1987 set.

Value – With many future Hall of Fame rookie cards and scarce short prints and variations, sets of the 1987 Fleer issue have grown substantially in value since initial release. Near complete rosters in top graded condition can fetch thousands of dollars today. Key rookie cards like McGwire, Larkin and Maddux alone can be worth hundreds in high grade. The Glossy Sendbacks short prints frequently sell for hundreds each individually on the secondary market. A true complete set with all documented variations remains a prized possession for vintage baseball card collectors.

Product Packaging – Fleer distributed the 1987 cards in wax packs, rack packs, and factory sets. The wax packs contained 5 cards each while rack packs held 19 cards. Hobby boxes contained 24 wax packs and retailed for around $20. Factory sets were also available and contained all 660 cards across 11 factory sealed boxes. Many consider factory sets the best way to obtain a complete set with all the tricky short prints and variations guaranteed.

Card Stock – Fleer used a thinner, glossier stock for their 1987 cardboard compared to previous issues. While it made the cards slicker and photo quality better, it also led to poorer longevity. Many 1987 Fleer cards show signs of damage, creasing or fading more than issues from other years. Top-graded specimens have commanded big premiums from collectors due to the increased difficulty in finding highly preserved examples from this release.

Impact – The 1987 Fleer set was a watershed moment, being the company’s first solo major league baseball product after Topps lost its exclusive deal. While the design was divisive compared to what collectors were used to, it helped Fleer gain traction as a serious competitor to Topps. It was also THE vintage release of the late 1980s boom era that got a whole new generation of kids hooked on collecting cards. The rookie class only added to its significance long term.

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set holds an important place in card history because of its highly sought rookie cards, scarce short prints and variations, and role in helping usher in card collecting’s boom period of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Sets are exceedingly difficult to complete properly and high grade singles and short prints continue fetching big bucks today. For these reasons, it remains one of the most historically relevant and valuable vintage issues for collectors.

1987 KMART BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Kmart baseball card set was one of the more unique issues of the late 1980s. At the time, Kmart was one of the largest retailers in the United States and wanted to get into the booming baseball card industry. They took a decidedly different approach than the traditional card manufacturers like Topps and Donruss.

Instead of the standard design of teammates on one card that fans had become accustomed to, Kmart opted to feature individual players on their own cards. This allowed for more photos and stats per card at the expense of the dual format. But it also freed up valuable real estate for promotions and advertisements. Each 1987 Kmart card prominently displayed the Kmart logo at the bottom alongside messages like “Visit Kmart for all your baseball card needs.”

Part of Kmart’s strategy in branching out into cards was to leverage their massive retail presence. The cards were exclusively sold through Kmart stores, not available through traditional hobby shops and convenience outlets. This was a new distribution model for the baseball card market. Kmart hoped fans would visit their stores to collect the set just as they did for other branded items.

Some collectors found the self-promotional nature of the 1987 Kmart cards distracting. Having the company logo and messages took attention away from the players and photography that was the typical focus. The cards also lacked uniform aesthetics compared to competitors as each player’s image was displayed differently. But these design aspects were secondary to Kmart in promoting their brand identity.

Despite initial reservations in the collecting community, Kmart was able to produce an ambitious 440-card base set in 1987. This was larger than what Topps or Donruss offered that year. Beyond base rookies and regulars, Kmart inserts included traded players, second year pros, stars of the 60s/70s, league leaders, and Goudey reprints. One of the set’s most popular short prints was an Orel Hershiser rookie from his record 59 consecutive scoreless innings season in 1988.

The surplus of cards allowed Kmart to fill pro-sets in ways other manufacturers could not. But production values were generally lower and centered more around novelties than serious offerings for the growing subset of vintage collectors. The thin cardboard stock also made the 1987 Kmart cards prone to damage over time compared to the more durable cards from Topps and Donruss.

However, Kmart was still able to attract collectors just starting out or simply seeking variety in their collections. Their expansive sets at affordable prices brought enjoyment to many casual fans. And for knowledgeable collectors, the challenges of finding uncommon Kmart parallels and variations produced excitement in the hunt. Their self-printing model also eliminated concerns over counterfeits that plagued other issues.

Despite the large size of the 1987 Kmart baseball card set, finding complete sets today is difficult. This is partly because they were only sold in Kmart stores instead of traditional hobby shops. Collectors were also leery of their lesser build quality. But many players featured are important pieces of history, like Rookie Cards for Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and others. A select group of key cards from the 440-card issue have found strong interest and value in recent years.

While Kmart hoped their baseball cards would further synergize with their retail sales, the project ended up losing money compared to projected returns. The novelty wore off quickly among dedicated collectors now accustomed to Topps and Donruss standards. After only two years of baseball card sets in 1987-1988, Kmart discontinued their foray due to lackluster performance. Their unorthodox strategy to grow the market proved some retailers could compete if willing to think outside the box.

For a short time, Kmart shook up the status quo of the 1980s baseball card industry. Although their cards never achieved the same stature of the sport’s leading brands, they offered affordable options to growing legions of fans. Whether viewed as novel oddities or just part of the annual card cycle, the 1987 Kmart issue documented a unique moment when a major corporation took a swing in a space they didn’t fully understand. While their cards are relatively obscure today, they remain a footnote in the history of both Kmart and the colorful early years of licensed baseball memorabilia.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FULL SET

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable vintage issues in the hobby. Produced by Topps, the 1987 set marked the company’s 30th year as the exclusive MLB trading card license holder. That anniversary is reflected in several subtle ways throughout the design. The set includes cards for all 26 MLB teams at the time and features 728 total cards after accounting for player cards, manager cards, team cards, and logos/miscellaneous inserts.

For the 1987 design, Topps went with a classic photographic look with colorful borders and team logo accents. Each player’s headshot photo was placed atop a colored panel matching their team’s colors. The player’s name and position were listed in large white capital letters below along with their season stats for 1986. One noticeable aspect of the photocard design was the absence of any team name identifiers on the front. This led to some confusion for collectors at the time trying to identify players without flipping the card over.

On the back of each card, Topps provided a career stat summary for each player along with a short paragraph biography. These write-ups chronicled highlights from their professional and personal lives. The 30th anniversary logo was subtly incorporated into the artwork behind the stats panels. Serial number sequencing on the front bottom left and the classic Topps logo remained unchanged from prior years. Many consider the clean and colorful 1987 design as one that has aged exceptionally well over the decades.

Some key subsets and inserts from the 1987 Topps baseball card set that added value and variety included All-Star Cards, League Leaders, Team Leaders, Manager Cards, and Team Checklists. The massive roster of future Hall of Famers captured on their 1987 Topps rookie cards or early career issues also contributes to the set’s enduring popularity among collectors. Players like Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, Dennis Eckersley, and Mark McGwire gained early popularity thanks to their distinctive 1987 rookie cards.

The chase for the highly coveted Mike Schmidt record breakerParallel card was also in full effect in 1987 packs. Schmidt’s parallel card commemorated him breaking Mike Schmidt’s all-time home run record in 1986. The 1984 Donruss error card of Ken Griffey Jr. as a member of the Mariners instead of the Braves also made its retail debut as part of the 1987 Topps set. Both parallel and error cards are notoriously difficult to acquire and command big values today.

Condition and centering quality varies widely across the massive 1987 Topps issue due to the sheer print run needed to meet demand. Mint condition Gem Mint 10 example sell for hundreds to over $1000 depending on the player rookie or star status. Even well-centered near Mint cards usually trade in the $5-25 range on the mid-tier player level. The coveted sealed wax boxes have also risen sharply in secondary market interest and pricing in recent years.

In terms of sheer volume, 1987 Topps remains one of the most widely produced modern issues ever created. The accessibility and affordability of full sets, stars, and rookie cards have kept it entrenched as a backbone vintage in the hobby for collectors of all budgets and experience levels. The anniversary stamp of the 30th year only adds to the sense of nostalgia and history 1987 Topps trading cards continue to evoke for baseball card collectors and enthusiasts. As the industry and marketplace evolve, the 1987 Topps baseball card set endures as a true icon of the sport and collecting world. Its widespread appeal spans multiple generations who grew up with these memorable cardboard characters.

In closing, few vintage issues can match the combination of design aesthetics, roster inclusions, chasing fun, and overall enthusiasm still surrounding the 1987 Topps baseball cards to this day. Whether piecing together a full rainbow certified set, hunting vintage stars, or just reminiscing about a decade that shaped the sport – 1987 Topps provides it all. The magnitude of its initial print run and the lasting popularity of Hall of Fame talents enshrined as rookies make it an landmark release that fostered many lifelong collectors. Thirty years after celebrating its anniversary within the product, 1987 Topps remains a pillar and fan favorite in the vibrant world of baseball memorabilia collecting.

FLEER BASEBALL CARDS 1987 PRICING

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1987 was a landmark year for Fleer baseball cards as it was the company’s first year producing cards after acquiring the license from Topps. The 1987 Fleer set included cards of many star players from the 1986 season like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith. Given it was the inaugural Fleer baseball card set, prices have fluctuated over the years but there remains strong collector interest in the rookie cards and stars from the ’87 Fleer set.

One of the most valuable and sought after cards from the 1987 Fleer set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was one of the most exciting young prospects in baseball and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His rookie card from the 1987 Fleer set has always demanded big money since he debuted. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s rookie card in the late 1980s could fetch $50-100. Prices steadily rose through the 1990s as his career took off. By the late 90s, mint Griffey rookies were selling for $300-500 and in the early 2000s after he won his awards, prices hit $1000-1500. Today, a pristine Griffey rookie in a PSA 10 gem mint grade can sell for $10,000 or more at auction. Even well-centered near mint copies in PSA 8 or 9 grade bring $1,000-$3,000. The card remains one of the crown jewels of the ’87 Fleer set.

Another star player whose rookie card holds value is Mark McGwire from the 1987 Fleer set. McGwire went on to have one of the most prolific home run hitting careers of all-time. In the late 1980s, his rookie fetched $20-30 in mint condition. Through the 1990s as McGwire chased Maris’ home run record, prices increased to $100-200 for a PSA 8 copy. At the height of the steroid era home run chase in the late 1990s, mint McGwire rookies were bringing $500-1000. Even after his admission of steroid use later in his career, the card still retains value given his iconic single season home run records. Today, a PSA 10 McGire rookie would sell for $2000-3000 while PSA 8 and 9 copies trade hands for $300-1000 depending on condition.

Another key rookie from the 1987 Fleer set is Tom Glavine, who went on to win two Cy Young Awards and over 300 games in a Hall of Fame career. In the late 80s, his rookie card sold for $5-10 in mint condition. Prices rose steadily through the 1990s as his career achievements mounted, with PSA 8 copies reaching $50-100 levels. After he was inducted into the Hall of Fame, mint Glavine rookies climbed to the $200-300 range. Today, a pristine PSA 10 copy could sell for $500-1000 while most PSA 8 and 9 editions trade between $100-300. The card remains a strong long-term hold for investors given Glavine’s playing resume.

In addition to rookie cards, the 1987 Fleer set contains the cards of many superstar veterans who were in their primes in the mid-1980s. For example, Roger Clemens’ card has always been a popular pickup given his electric stuff and winning ways. In the late 1980s, a Clemens in PSA 8 condition sold in the $5-10 range. As Clemens racked up Cy Youngs and won two World Series in the 1990s, the value increased to the $20-50 level. After he broke Marichal’s strikeout record and collected more hardware, mint Clemens sold for $100-200. Today, a pristine PSA 10 could bring $500-1000 while most PSA 8 and 9 copies trade between $50-200 depending on the buyer’s passion level for the Rocket.

Another star pitcher whose 1987 Fleer card retains value is Orel Hershiser. After he set the record for consecutive scoreless innings in 1988 and won the World Series MVP, demand rose for his ’87 Fleer card. In the late 1980s, a mint copy sold for $5-10. Values increased to $20-50 in the 1990s. Today, a PSA 8 Hershiser usually sells in the $50-100 range while a PSA 10 could reach the $200-500 level given his iconic 1988 season and the cachet of one of the set’s top arms.

The 1987 Fleer set remains a highly collectible vintage issue due to its star-studded checklist of future Hall of Famers, memorable rookie cards, and iconic veterans from the mid-1980s. While the true gem rookie cards like Griffey and McGwire command the highest prices, there are still many affordable stars and key players to be had. For investors, the long-term potential exists given the cachet of Fleer’s inaugural baseball set only increases over time. Whether spending $50 on a star veteran or $1000 on a rookie, the 1987 Fleer cards represent a solid foundation for any collection.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 COMPLETE SET EBAY

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The 1987 Topps Baseball Card set is one of the most iconic and beloved complete sets for collectors to acquire. Originally released in 1987 as packs of 11 cards, the full 660 card collection provides a snapshot into the rosters and players and teams from that late 80s MLB season. With colorful graphical design on bright stock featuring action shots of the players, these 1987 Topps cards activated the imaginations of children and sparked a lifelong hobby for many adults. Even over 30 years later, acquiring the mint pristine 1987 Topps complete base set in its factory sealed wax box is a holy grail for dedicated collectors.

While individual 1987 Topps cards can still be found in various condition grades floating around the secondary market, finding the entire 660 card collection intact and sealed remains an elusive chase. For those seeking to obtain this coveted set, checking the weekly sports card auction listings on eBay is usually the best chance at acquiring such a complete vintage wax box collection. Given the established vintage sports collectibles market and the iconic nature of the 1987 Topps set specifically, finding a sealed 1987 Topps lot on eBay usually means opening up your wallet, as these complete sets often sell for thousands of dollars.

Condition and provenance are obviously very important factors when it comes to high value 1987 Topps lots on eBay. With over 30 years having passed since production, even factory sealed wax boxes can potentially show some aging or damage accrued over decades of storage. Carefully examining photos looking for flaws, dings, creases or other issues helps buyers gauge overall condition without physically holding the lot in hand. Likewise, sellers who provide paperwork trail of the lot and its sealed status over years helps establish important provenance to bolster a listing.

A true “Gem Mint” grade 1987 Topps complete factory wax sealed set in pristine like-new condition without any flaws would undoubtedly be the Holy Grail find on eBay. An opportunity to acquire arguably the most desirable unopened vintage set in such phenomenal condition would certainly attract bids from collectors all around the globe. Such a rare preserved time capsule lot from 1987 could realistically sell for 5 figures or more, given the rarity, condition and history of the set and cards within.

More commonly however, vintage 1987 Topps lots on eBay will show some minor aging signs befitting a 35 year old product, even still sealed. Subtle warpiness to the cardboard flaps, minor discoloration on the plastic front, or slight dulling to the comic book style artwork are normal signs of vintage. These more “very fine” or “near mint” graded lots still encapsulate the full experience of acquiring the iconic 1987 MLB season release, and are considerably more realistic options for most collectors’ budgets. Well described 3-5 thousand dollar price range lots fitting this condition profile attract significant bidding wars with impassioned collectors.

Sample recently sold large 1987 Topps team or multi-box lots on eBay highlighted the marketplace. A full sealed wax box of San Diego Padres players retailed for just under $800. Two full vintage wax boxes featuring the Houston Astros and San Francisco Giants squads combined reached almost $2,000. And the granddaddy of them all, a full sealed master set across 5 complete wax boxes amassed an epic final bid of over $12,000. These real auction results underscore both the enduring fandom for vintage 80s MLB plastic and cardboard, as well as the significant investment returns possible after decades of appreciating value.

Whether seeking iconic rookie cards of Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, or Benito Santiago, or simply reliving the glory days of Stadium Club and Fleer Ultra, acquiring the complete 660 card 1987 Topps Baseball Card set is considered the pinnacle achievement by many vintage collectors. While finding a true mint condition sealed factory set may remain budget-bustingly elusive, more reasonably graded “very fine” or “near mint” quality complete 1987 Topps lots do surface periodically on eBay. With patience and diligent searching of weekly sports auction listings, it’s certainly possible with a sizable monetary commitment to check this magnum opus of a vintage release off the collecting bucket list. The iconic cards, players, logos and team designs of the 1987 MLB season truly come to life through the longevity and nostalgia provided by the complete 660 card 1987 Topps Baseball Card factory sealed set.

VALUE BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 1987

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the late 1980s.Released in May 1987, the set features 660 total cards including 652 base cards, 4 Team Cards, and 4 Manager Cards. Several factors have contributed to the enduring popularity and strong secondary market for 1987 Topps cards over the past 35 years.

One of the biggest drivers of value for the 1987 set is the presence of future Hall of Famers who were still early in their careers at the time. This includes players like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Mike Mussina. While most of their rookie cards were featured in earlier sets, their 1987 Topps cards captured them in what would become their prime years.

Bonds’ card in particular (#234) is one of the most coveted in the set. Still with the Pittsburgh Pirates at the time, it shows him in the early stages of his ascent toward arguably being the greatest hitter of all time. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples frequently trade hands for over $1000. McGwire’s (#255) and Maddux’s (#251) are also extremely valuable commons in top grades due to their status.

Rookie cards in the 1987 set that can comand high prices include Tom Glavine (#484), Mike Mussina (#567), and Ellis Burks (#443). While not rookies, Fernando Valenzuela’s (#137) and Don Mattingly’s (#245) are also highly regarded veterans cards that regularly attract serious bidder interest. Some key short prints like Ozzie Smith (#151) can reach the $100-200 range as well in top condition.

One of the true blue chip cards in the 1987 Topps set is Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie (#116). Widely considered one of the most iconic baseball cards ever issued, PSA 10 copies have broken records by selling for over $100,000 at auction. Even high-grade non-gem examples still trade in the low thousands. With his electrifying play and trademark backward hat, Griffey became the face of the sport during the late 80s-90s – immortality firmly cemented on his Topps rookie.

But beyond star players, perhaps the biggest beneficiary of time appreciation for 1987 Topps has been Nolan Ryan. His expressive action pose on his Astros card (#432) perfectly captured the fireballer in his prime. High grade versions routinely trade for thousands, but a PSA 10 could theoretically achieve over six figures one day given Ryan’s awe-inspiring legend status. His expressiveness and dynamism are rarely matched in a single sports card image.

Another key factor driving collectors to 1987 Topps is the overall nostalgia for the late 80s design aesthetic. Characterized by bold fluorescent colors and futuristic gradients blended with classic baseball photography, the set tapped into that fun, flashy tone of the Reagan era. Today this lends itself well to the present vintage and retro collecting trends.

Much like the designs from the early 1970s, there’s also just something about the large, symmetrical nameplates and photography cropping style of late 80s Topps issues that give them universal collecting appeal. They strike a perfect balance between classic baseball card artsiness and a fun, funky postmodern pop art sensibility. This has contributed to the sets maintaining strong crossover appeal beyond just the standard baseball collecting demographic.

One final attribute that makes 1987 Topps so investment-worthy is simply the sheer rarity of high quality samples still around today, especially in the ever-coveted Pristine PSA 10 condition. Like all card issues pre-1991 Upper Deck, they were not printed on the durable, archival stock we see in modern cards. Coupled with the sheer numbers opened and played with in the late 80s boom years pre-slab era, pristine survivors have just continued to disappear at a steady rate from circulation. Every ungraded copy taken out of play makes the finite population that much harder to find.

The 1987 Topps set enjoys strong collector demand drawing from its many Hall of Fame talents captured in their primes, iconic rookie cards of Griffey and others, nostalgic yet stylish design aesthetic, and the simple scarcity imposed by survival over 35 years. While individual cards may fluxuate, the set as a whole seems almost certain to maintain its secure place as a blue-chip mainstream investment for both baseball fans and vintage pop art connoisseurs in the years to come. Strong grades of star players and key rookies show no sign of losing their capacity to generate impressive prices upon crossing the auction block.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The year 1987 produced some of the most valuable baseball cards in the entire hobby. Fueled by the peak of the sports card boom in the late 1980s, several rookies and star players from ’87 have gone on to become the most sought after and valuable cards on the market. Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent ’87 cards and why they continue to command enormous prices among collectors.

Perhaps the most famous and valuable baseball card ever printed comes from the 1987 Topps set – the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Griffey broke into the majors with the Seattle Mariners in ’87 as a supremely talented 18-year old rookie. With his smooth left-handed swing and impressive playmaking skills in center field, Griffey was an immediate star and fans snatched up his rookie card like crazy. Today, a Griffey Jr. rookie card in pristine Near Mint-Mint condition can fetch well over $100,000. In august 2016, one Griffey Jr. PSA 10 gem mint rookie actually sold for an unbelievable $220,000, setting the current high water mark price for any baseball card.

Joining Griffey as one of the crown jewels from ’87 Topps is another future Hall of Famer rookie, Tom Glavine of the Atlanta Braves. A pitching sensation out of Boston College, Glavine emerged as one of the greatest left-handed hurlers of all time during his illustrious career. His rookie card shows Glavine delivering a pitch for the Braves and today high graded examples can sell for $5,000-$10,000 depending on condition. Another huge star pitcher whose fortunes skyrocketed after 1987 was Dwight Gooden of the New York Mets. Known as “Doc” for his overpowering fastball, Gooden captured the Rookie of the Year award in ’84 and followed that up with one of the single greatest pitching seasons ever in 1985 when he won 24 games while leading the league in strikeouts. Gooden’s stellar play made his ’87 cards extremely popular and to this day, his common Topps issue stays a hot commodity among collectors, selling for $1,000-$3,000 for mint copies.

Two other superstar position players who made their debuts in ’87 and have legendary cards are Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire. As a rookie with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1987, Bonds showed the athleticism and power potential that would make him the all-time home run king. His silky smooth left-handed swing is captured on his ’87 Topps rookie which is a must-have for any vintage collection. Pristine Bonds rookies can sell for $5,000-$8,000 based on condition. Meanwhile, Mark McGwire arrived in Oakland as a hulking first baseman with mammoth power. His rookie card became a fan favorite due to his intimidating physique and the memorable image of him stretching for a throw. Near mint McGwire rookies move for $3,000-$5,000 regularly.

Another massive slugger whose star rose mightily after 1987 was Ruben Sierra of the Texas Rangers. Dubbed “El Caballo Loco” for his wild style of play, Sierra smacked 22 home runs in ’86 and followed that up with 22 more dingers in ’87 while playing superb defense in right field as well. The exciting nature of Sierra’s game made collectors hunt avidly for his ’87 Topps and other rookie issues. Today, pristine Sierra rookies sell between $800-1500. A surprising key ’87 rookie is Eric Davis of the Cincinnati Reds. A premier five-tool talent, Davis broke out in 1987 by batting .293 with 19 homers, 77 RBI and 40 stolen bases while also flashing Gold Glove defense in center. This breakout campaign caused collectors to recognize Davis’ star potential and his Topps and Fleer rookies from that year remain sought after, valued around $500-1000 for high grades.

Perhaps the single rarest and most valuable card from 1987 is the Fleer 1/1 Mark McGwire Error card. Produced during an era when Fleer didn’t have an exclusive MLB license, the company somehow ended up with a unique McGwire Negro League style design. The text on the back refers to McGwire playing for the A’s, clearly making it an error. Only one of these incredible mistakes survived and after a lengthy legal battle, it was certified as authentic. In 2001, it sold for an astounding $75,000, believed to still be the highest price ever paid for a modern baseball card. Other stars whose rookie cards are prized from the ’87 set include fellow Red Danny Jackson, Blue Jay stalwart Fred McGriff, speedster Vince Coleman, and Expo charge Tim Raines. In fact, nearly the entire 1987 Topps and Fleer sets hold immense nostalgia and demand from collectors, cementing it as one of the single most valuable vintage issues in the hobby due to all the future Hall of Famers and memorable players it features.

The 1987 baseball season and subsequent card releases were a pivotal turning point that introduced scores of future legends to the hobby. Stars like Griffey, Bonds, Glavine, McGwire and others established themselves as rookies that year. This led fans and collectors alike to keenly recognize their talents and support their cardboard early on. As a result, mint quality ’87 rookies of these superstars have appreciating exponentially in value and remain seven-figure cards today. Even obscure players like Sierra, Davis and McGriff hold tremendous nostalgia and secondary market prices in the thousands due to how impactful and fun 1987 was for the sport. With its abundance of future stars and elite inserts like the infamous McGwire error, 1987 goes down as arguably the most historic and valuable single year in all of sports card history. Collectors continue to pursue these vintage gems decades later as sound blue-chip investments en route to baseball immortality.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 COMPLETE SET REVIEW

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The 1987 Topps Baseball Card set was issued during a time when baseball card collecting was at the peak of its popularity in the late 1980s. As one of the flagship brands for baseball cards, Topps continued to produce high quality sets that became highly coveted by collectors both young and old. The 1987 set featured 660 total cards and offered collectors memorable rookie cards, star players, and postseason highlights from the 1986 season.

Some key details about the 1987 Topps set include that it marked the 30th anniversary of Topps’ iconic design with a red border on most cards. Topps also produced several parallel sets that year such as Traded, Update, and Turquoise foil inserts which added to the excitement of collecting. The final complete set checklists 660 cards and can often be found in factory sealed wax packs, boxes, or complete pre-built sets.

For the front of each standard card, Topps continued their tried-and-true vertical design with the player’s picture on top and their name, team, and stats listed below. The back of each card featured the player’s career stats and highlights surrounded by a white border. Notably, Topps began including unique callouts on the back of select star players pointing out career milestones. Color photos were used for nearly every image that year which helped the set visually stand out among collectors.

In terms of rookie cards, the 1987 Topps set is perhaps best remembered today for featuring future Hall of FamersKen Griffey Jr, Gregg Maddux, and Tom Glavine in their rookie seasons. While not quite as treasured as Griffey’s iconic 1989 rookie, collectors still prize the 1987 rookies as some of the earliest cards captured of these all-time great players. Other notable rookies included Kevin Maas, Jeff Gray, and Kirt Manwaring. Nearly all of these rookie cards have held their value well over the years.

The 1987 set is also infamous for infamous printing errors that have added to the intrigue for collectors over the decades. Perhaps the most widely known is the reversed front/back printing error on card #420 (Tim Raines), making it one of the most recognizable mistakes in the hobby. Other notable mistakes include upside down photographs, missing signatures, and typos/misspellings that have since become collector favorites.

In terms of team checklists, Topps continued club-by-club rosters from #1-660 with the Detroit Tigers starting things off and the Toronto Blue Jays ending the set. Stars featured prominently that year included Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, and Jose Canseco amidst many others. Meanwhile, the postseason highlight cards paid tribute to the 1986 World Series and LCS matchups. This included cards spotlighting the eventual champion New York Mets and their World Series MVP Ray Knight.

When the 1987 Topps set was initially released, the cards sold for about $0.25 per pack with a box containing 12 packs running closer to $3. In the following decades, as the players captured in the set rose to fame and baseball card collecting boomed, complete 1987 Topps sets steadily increased in demand and value. Today, a complete unopened 1987 Topps Baseball Card set in mint condition can fetch over $1,000 due to its combination of stars, rookies, and vintage appeal.

Meanwhile, individual high-value cards from the 1987 set often sell for far more. The coveted Ken Griffey Jr. rookie routinely fetches well over $100 even in lower grades. The iconic #420 Tim Raines error card has sold for upwards of $2,000 in pristine condition. Other notable singles include Gregg Maddux ($75+), Tom Glavine ($50+), and postseason highlights of players like Ray Knight ($25+). Of course, well-preserved rookies of stars like Canseco, Clemens, and Henderson continue to appreciat over the long-term as well.

The 1987 Topps Baseball Card set holds a special nostalgia for collectors of the 1980s while also preserving memorable rookie cards and seasons of future Hall of Famers. Even with over 660 total cards, the set remains relatively affordable to collect or build compared to some other vintage years. Factors like unique printing mistakes, team checklists, and commemorative postseason highlights give the 1987 issue a distinctive personality that has thrilled collectors for decades. Whether building a complete factory set or chasing individual star cards, the 1987 Topps offering remains a foundational release cherished by vintage baseball card aficionados.