Tag Archives: 1987

VALUABLE 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card release is considered one of the most valuable sets from the 1980s. While it may not be quite as iconic or sought after as the iconic 1952 or 1954 Topps sets, the ’87 Topps issue featured several young superstars and Hall of Famers that have grown to become extremely expensive and valuable cards over the past few decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most valuable gems from the 1987 Topps wax packs.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1987 set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, Griffey Jr. burst onto the MLB scene in 1987 with remarkable talent and swagger. His rookie card from Topps captures him shining in his Seattle Mariners uniform with one of his signature smiles. In pristine gem mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s rookie currently fetches prices well over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can reach $3,000-5,000. The card remains iconic of 1980s baseball and Griffey’s early dominance.

Another huge star from the late 80s/90s was Chicago White Sox pitcher Jack McDowell. While not quite reaching Griffey levels of fame, McDowell was a dominant starter who won the 1993 Cy Young Award. His rookie card from 1987 Topps is one of the harder cards to find in high grade. An NM-MT copy could sell for $500-1000 while a true gem mint PSA 10 has brought over $2000 at auction. McDowell remains one of the more valuable “non-rookie” cards outside the true stars.

Speaking of true stars, one of the greatest switch-hitters of all-time had his rookie season in 1987 – Bernie Williams. As the longtime Yankee center fielder and 1996 World Series MVP, Williams carved out a Hall of Fame career. His smooth lefty swing and elite bat control made him a fan favorite. Williams’ rookie card has strong demand given his elite talent and status as a full-time Yankee. A PSA 9 could sell for $150-300 while a PSA 10 has reached over $600.

Another lefty slugger who had his breakout 1987 season was Toronto’s George Bell. Bell would win the AL MVP that season while leading the league in home runs and RBI. His powerful swing and flair for the dramatic made him a fan favorite in Canada. Bell’s rising action shot rookie card looks sharp in high grade and has value beyond typical “non-rookie” cards. A PSA 9 has sold for around $100 with a PSA 10 reaching over $250.

Staying in Toronto, pitcher David Wells also had his rookie year in 1987 after being drafted three times without signing. “Boomer” became a workhorse starter and three-time All-Star over his lengthy career. His stocky stature and windup made him memorable. Wells’ rookie card can be acquired for $25-50 in top-notch condition despite his lack of superstardom. Wells collectors add value given his memorable path.

Moving to the National League, slugging first baseman Andres Galarraga cracked onto the scene in 1987 with the Montreal Expos. “The Big Cat” would have several huge seasons with the bat during his 21-year career. Galarraga’s smooth left-handed swing jumps off his rookie card. In pristine condition it can command $75-150 due to his fame and bulk.

Switching coasts, the San Diego Padres had a star of their own emerge in 1987 – Benito Santiago. The young catcher had a seemingly effortless way of blocking pitches and throwing out runners. Santiago won the 1987 Rookie of the Year award and made five All-Star teams. His card looks sharp in Padres navy blue and can bring $50-100 in top grades due to his noteworthy rookie season and all-around play.

There were plenty more noteworthy young players who made their MLB debuts in 1987 scattered among the flagship sets from Topps, Fleer and Donruss. Stars like Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, Kevin Mitchell, and Tom Glavine all had rookie cards created that year in their early uniforms. For collectors, hunting the rookies and stars of 1987 in high quality remains a fun and potentially lucrative hobby. With so many talented ballplayers, there is value to be found across the board from this classic vintage release.

While it may not be the most iconic vintage set, the 1987 Topps baseball card issue saw the arrival of future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Larkin and Bernie Williams. Powerhouse rookie seasons from the likes of Andres Galarraga and Benito Santiago also make their debut cards desirable. With so much young talent on the rise in 1987 across both leagues, it’s no surprise valuable gems remain from the Topps series over 35 years later. Top-graded examples of the stars are prized possessions in collections today.

1987 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Score baseball card set is highly sought after by collectors due to the rookie cards it features of future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, and Greg Maddux. This was the final season that Score manufactured baseball cards before Topps acquired the license from Major League Baseball in 1988. As a result, the 1987 Score set has taken on greater significance as the last of its kind.

Several factors contribute to the value of individual 1987 Score baseball cards. Rookie and star player cards tend to command the highest prices. For example, the Barry Larkin rookie card is one of the gems of the set. As a future Hall of Famer and 12-time All-Star, Larkin’s rookie card from his rookie season with the Cincinnati Reds is highly valuable. In near mint condition, Larkin rookies have sold for over $1,000. Similarly, the rookie cards of Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux, who also entered the Hall of Fame, can reach $500-$600 in mint condition due to their future success.

Stars of the late 1980s like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, and Kirby Puckett also have valuable cards in the 1987 Score set proportional to their playing careers. Boggs and Smith rookie cards aren’t in the 1987 set since they debuted earlier, but their base cards can sell for $100-200 depending on condition. Henderson and Puckett were already established All-Stars in 1987, so their base cards have lower values of $50-75 compared to rookie cards. Special parallel and serially numbered versions of star player cards can increase in value.

Condition is extremely important when determining the price of any vintage baseball card. On a scale of 1-10, the two highest condition gradings that maintain significant value are mint (9-10) and near mint (7-8). Anything graded 6 or below loses substantial value. Minimizing flaws from bending, creasing, edges, or corners is vital to preserve a high condition grade. Cards in pristine mint condition can be worth 5-10 times more than heavily played copies. Proper storage in protective holders is key to maintaining condition over decades.

In addition to player performance records, certain 1987 Score variants have increased rarity and demand. The “Photo Graphics” parallel subset featuring inset team photos inserted one per pack added a statistical wrinkle to the base set. These parallel variants tend to double or triple the value of base cards for star players. Another rare parallel is the “Action All-Stars” yellow parallel print that was even harder to pull. Serialized “000” and “010” subsets are some of the most prized insert cards.

Considering it was the final Score set before Topps took over, collectors are still discovering the nuances that make certain 1987 Score cards especially rare and valuable. A mint condition Nolan Ryan Photo Graphics parallel, for example, recently sold for over $1000 due to its statistical rarity. Similarly, Mike Schmidt and Don Mattingly Photo Graphics parallels reached the $300-500 range. Lower print runs and manufacturing quirks from Score’s final season led to subsets with exceptionally small populations that continue gaining recognition.

The 1987 Score baseball card market is thriving over 30 years later due to its historical importance and the elite rookie premieres within the set. Along with grading services like PSA and BGS authenticating condition, marketplaces on eBay let collectors discover the true values of their 1987 Score cards. The right parallel variant, star player, pristine condition grade or statistical anomaly can make cards from this set small investments worth far more than their original retail price. As interest grows in vintage 1980s baseball memorabilia, the final offering from Score maintains its status as a highly collectible release worth researching set prices.

Values of individual 1987 Score baseball cards are directly tied to the future Hall of Fame success of key rookies like Larkin, Glavine and Maddux. High grades for these star rookie cards as well as stars of the late 1980s can potentially be worth hundreds to over $1000 depending on condition and parallels. Serialized and rare parallel variations also increase rarity and price due to their low print runs. With the set marking Score’s finale before Topps, values remain tied to condition, scarce subsets and uncovering overlooked nuances that make certain 1987 cards surprisingly more valuable than peers over 30 years later.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable releases from the late 1980s. While not as iconic or celebrated as some other vintage issues like Topps or Fleer, the ’87 Donruss set showcased many future Hall of Famers and young stars at the beginning of their careers. As a result, certain key rookie cards and star players from this 720 card collection have appreciated greatly over the past few decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top 1987 Donruss baseball cards and their estimated values today.

One of the biggest stars and most coveted rookies from the 1987 Donruss set is Chicago Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg. His card #1 is widely considered the crown jewel of the entire release. In top graded mint condition of gem mint 10, recent sales of the Sandberg rookie have exceeded $15,000. Even well-centred near mint to mint copies in the 8-9 range can still fetch $1,000-$3,000. What makes the Sandberg so highly valuable is that he went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Cubs and is still beloved on the North Side of Chicago. With his success and iconic status with that franchise, the demand stays very strong for this rookie card.

Another immensely valuable rookie from the ’87 Donruss set is Toronto Blue Jays sensation Roberto Alomar. Like Sandberg, Alomar went on to a storied career and was enshrined in Cooperstown. His dazzling defense at second base made him a fan favorite and 12-time All-Star. In a PSA 10 gem mint, the Alomar rookie has also topped $15,000 at auction. Even well-centered PSA 8 copies can go for $2,000-$4,000 still today. Again, his resume and the attractiveness of his vintage Toronto Blue Jays uniform add to the eye-popping prices his rookie commands.

Moving on to established veterans from 1987 Donruss, few are more bankable than Boston Red Sox star Wade Boggs. His straightforward action photo and Red Sox uniform on card #90 remains a popular visual from the 1980s. High-grade PSA 10 copies of the Boggs have recently hit $2,500. For the renowned hitter who won 5 batting titles, well-centered PSA 8s hold a value of $500-800. Of course, living Red Sox legends like Boggs will likely maintain strong demand for quite some time.

Continuing with iconic Boston players, the Jim Rice entry from the same ’87 Donruss set at #91 draws impressive numbers as well. Though not graded as finely on average due to the photography, mint PSA 9 Jim Rice’s have been auctioned for $1,200. Near mint to mint copies in the PSA 8 range bring in a healthy $300-500 frequently too. Rice forged a durable power-hitting career largely with the Red Sox and remains revered in New England.

Shifting gears to Los Angeles, no Dodgers collection is complete without Fernando Valenzuela. The charismatic “Fernandomania” that gripped LA and baseball in the 1981 season lives on in the hearts of Dodger faithful worldwide. His action shot on the 1987 Donruss card #275 reflects the sidearm delivery that dazzled batters. Top gem mint PSA 10 graded examples have sold for above $1,000. More accessible PSA 8 copies in the $250-400 range are strong sellers too thanks to the Fernandomania legend.

Switching coasts now, no player loomed larger in the 1980s than Oakland Athletics superstar Reggie Jackson. Known equally for his prodigious home run power as his outspoken personality, Mr. October became a pop culture icon of that era. His card #289 celebrates the five-time World Series champion in his A’s duds. Near pristine PSA 9 Reggie Jackson’s now pull around $900. Very presentable PSA 8 copies can be acquired for $350-550 still. No old school player moves merchandise like Reggie due to his enduring popularity.

Shifting to the National League, few franchises generated as many stars as the New York Mets. One of their prolific sluggers was slugging first baseman Keith Hernandez. His smooth left-handed swing was synonymous with clutch hits for multiple contending Met clubs. His card #306 in the classic blue and orange remains a must-have for Mets collectors. High grade PSA 9 copies have hit $700 lately. For well-centered PSA 8 versions, expect to pay in the $250-400 range. Hernandez is still revered in Queens for his leadership of those 1980’s pennant winners.

Switching to the other borough, the 1987 Donruss set featured some emerging Yankees as well. Arguably the top Bronx Bomber represented was ace pitcher Dave Righetti. “Rags” is immortalized on card #378 hurling for the pinstriped Pinstripers. His dynamic motion and Yankees road uniform create a vintage baseball visual. Near gem mint PSA 9 Righetti’s have crossed $600 in recent sales. Collector-grade PSA 8 copies stay consistently priced between $200-350 too. As a durable homegrown arm during some leaner Yankee years, Righetti remains a fan favorite.

To wrap up this rundown of 1987 Donruss worth, another National League franchise with notable stars was the Cincinnati Reds. One of the most entertaining players of the era was robust third baseman Buddy Bell. Card #556 portrays Buddy taking his rip for the Big Red Machine. Very high end PSA 9 copies have brought $500. More common well-centered PSA 8 versions stay a reasonable $150-250. Bell provided many thrills for Reds followers and collectors still clamor for his cardboard.

In summation, while not the most famous vintage issue, the 1987 Donruss set contains many rookie and star player cards that hold immense value across the board today. Keys like Sandberg, Alomar, Boggs, Rice and others frequently top $1,000 PSA 10. More attainable mid-grade PSA 8s for stars maintain $200-500 prices too. The iconic photography, franchise favorites, and Hall of Fame careers translated to memorable cardboard that collectors crave decades later.

MOST VALUABLE 1987 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 baseball card set featured some of the greatest players of the 1980s at the height of their careers. Several stars had milestone seasons in 1987 that make their cards particularly desirable for collectors today. With over 30 years having passed since issuance, many of these coveted ’87s have appreciated tremendously in value. Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive and sought-after 1987 baseball cards on the current market.

Perhaps the most iconic and valuable 1987 card is none other than the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie. Young Junior was just breaking into the big leagues with Seattle that year and showed tantalizing skills that would make him a future Hall of Famer. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless defense in center field captivated fans from the start. The condition of a Griffey Jr. RC obviously greatly impacts its worth, but even well-worn copies in PSA 5 or 6 condition have 6-figure values. A PSA 10 Griffey Jr. would sell at auction today for over $100,000, making it one of the most expensive modern-era cards in the hobby.

Another highly-prized rookie from the ’87 set is Cubs’ pitcher Jamie Moyer. As the oldest player to ever start a MLB game, Moyer had an incredible 36-year MLB career but was still very much an unknown at the time of his rookie issue. Due to his long yet unheralded career arc, Jamie Moyer rookies have become quite collectible and scarce in high grade. A PSA 10 Moyer RC would bring around $7,500 today, while even a PSA 8 commands over $1,000 on the secondary market.

Staying in the NL West, the sky-high value of anything related to the San Diego Padres’ all-time hits leader makes the 1987 Tony Gwynn incredibly sought-after as well. Like Griffey, Gwynn was a seasoned veteran by ’87 but still in his physical prime at just 25 years old. He would go on to win 8 batting titles including a scorching .370 average this year. High grade T. Gwynns can reach $4,000-$5,000 for authentic PSA 10 specimens. Even well-centered near-mint copies in the PSA 7-9 range hold value around $500.

Other star position players whose ’87 issues command 4-figure prices include slugging Yankees’ outfielder Dave Winfield ($3,000 PSA 10), Orioles’ 3B Cal Ripken Jr. (over $2,000 PSA 10), and Red Sox’ OF Dwight Evans ($1,500 PSA 10). Ripken and Evans were seasoned all-stars but still gaining acclaim, while Winfield remained a dominant offensive force. Each displays the smooth, photogenic swing that made them fan favorites.

On the pitching side, one hurler truly stands out – Mets’ future 300-game winner David Cone. He was just 24 in 1987 but already developing into an ace as he went 20-3 with a 2.22 ERA and two complete game shutouts. The sterling stats and youth of Cone at the time make his base issue among the most valuable of any pitcher from the classic ’87 set. PSA 10s trade hands for $2,000-2,500 easily, with PSA 9s reaching $1,000-1,500.

A couple other notable hurlers whose ’87s hold 4-figure value are Atlanta Braves’ fireballer Steve Avery (PSA 10 around $1,500) and Yankee closer Dave Righetti ($1,200 PSA 10). Avery was just breaking in at 21 with a very promising sophomore campaign, while “Rags” demonstrated his dominance in the pen and would finish his career with a then-record 46 saves in 1986. Their ascending stats and youthful photos add to each card’s longevity.

While stars like Winfield, Evans, and Cone generated buzz as proven veterans, two rising young shortstops were also establishing themselves in ’87. Alan Trammell of the Detroit Tigers had his best offensive campaign with a .343 average, 5 HR, 49 RBI line from the 6-spot. Meanwhile, Angels’ youngster Dick Schofield contributed solid defense and a .270 BA from both middle infield positions while displaying 5-tool potential. High grade specimens of their base issues can reach $800 for a PSA 10.

The compelling rookie and early career cards of future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Tony Gwynn anchor the 1987 issue as true blue-chip gems. But stars in their baseball primes like Cone, Ripken, and Winfield also produced exceedingly scarce and visually pleasing cardboard that maintains strong grades of desirability and value among collectors today. With such iconic talent featured, it’s no wonder the 1987 baseball cards remain a seminal release prized by enthusiasts of the golden age of the hobby.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1987 TOPPS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic of the modern era and is highly sought after by collectors. The set marks rookie cards for several future Hall of Famers and contains other scarce short printed cards that have risen greatly in value over the decades. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards that can fetch thousands, and in some cases over $100,000, on the thriving collectibles market.

One of the undisputed kings of the 1987 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Griffey was a rookie sensation for the Seattle Mariners in 1987 and his iconic smiling rookie card became instantly popular. Over the decades, demand for the Griffey Jr. rookie has never ceased and in top gem mint condition it can sell for over $10,000 raw or over $20,000 if graded mint by services like PSA or BGS. The card captures Griffey at the start of what became a surefire Hall of Fame career and its classic rookie photo continues to entice collectors.

While the Griffey Jr. rookie rightly earns top billing, another future Hall of Famer who also debuted in the 1987 Topps set is Mark McGwire. As one of the first real “monster mashers” of the steroid era, McGwire smashed home runs at a record pace throughout his career and still holds the single season home run record he set in 1998. His rookie card isn’t quite as valuable as Griffey’s, but graded mint condition copies can still reach $4,000-$6,000 prices due to McGwire’s immense popularity during his record-breaking seasons. Like Griffey, the McGwire rookie is always in high demand.

Much rarer and higher priced than even the Griffey and McGwire rookies is the crop of short printed stars from the 1987 Topps set. Short prints refer to select player cards that were printed in far lower numbers than the standard issues, making them extremely difficult to locate. One such short print superstar is Oakland A’s ace Dennis Eckersley, who was already a veteran at this point but would go on to earn election into the Hall of Fame. The “Eck” short print has been estimated to only exist in a print run around 1/10th the size of other cards. In pristine condition it can sell for over $50,000 for this reason.

Another first ballot Hall of Famer and 1986 American League MVP who appears as an ultra-short print in the ’87 Topps set is Boston Red Sox great Wade Boggs. Widely considered the best pure hitter of the 1980s, Boggs somehow inadvertently received what collectors estimate to be one of the shortest print runs of any card that year, around 1/100th the number of a regular issue. As a result, his short print is among the most elusive and when graded mint with the centeredness and sharpness befitting cards of its tight printing quantity, it can reach the $100,000 price point, truly cementing it as one of the costliest modern baseball cards period.

Staying in Boston, the 1987 Topps set is also made extremely valuable by the short printed rookie card of Red Sox legend Roger Clemens. Already building his case for the Hall of Fame just a few years into his career, the “Rocket” got lost in the shuffle and was blessed with one of the tightest print runs that year. Crease and corner wear free copies in high end mint condition have gone for well over $5,000 on the strength of Clemens’ legendary career. Finding high grade examples of his scarce rookie is a true challenge.

The supply issues and demand boosts don’t stop with the short prints though. Other key 1987 Topps cards that can run $1,000 or more in top condition include Oakland A’s superstar slugger Jose Canseco’s rookie, which helped energize the 1980s home run boom. Atlanta Braves pitching stud Tom Glavine’s rookie is also coveted, as are those of Los Angeles Dodgers legend Orel Hershiser and Atlanta slugger David Justice. And for Yankees collectors, a prized card is soon-to-be batting champion Don Mattingly’s update issue, one of his scarcest mainstream releases.

The 1987 Topps baseball set remains an iconic hobby landmark over 30 years later. From rookies of future Hall of Famers like Griffey and McGwire to absurdly short printed stars like Boggs and Eckersley, it contains some true gemstones of the modern collecting era. With solid vintage cardboard demand staying strong, the finest known copies of these valuable 1987s will continue fetching thousands, and in the case of oddities like the Boggs short print, well into the five figures for the foreseeable future.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set was the seventh annual release from Donruss and featured 660 total cards including rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Tom Glavine. The set showcased players from both the American and National Leagues and was a popular release among collectors at the time due to its unique photography and rookie cards.

Donruss began producing baseball cards in 1981 and had grown to be one of the top three brands by 1987 along with Topps and Fleer. The company was known for using innovative photography and cutting edge design elements in their sets which made them attractive to collectors. For the 1987 release, Donruss continued focusing on unique photo concepts and posed shots of the players. Many of the images stood out compared to the more traditional headshots used in other contemporary sets.

One of the defining characteristics of 1987 Donruss was the card design and layout. The front of each card featured a large portrait size photo with thick gray borders. Below the photo was a gray bar with the player’s name and position. Donruss logos were placed prominently above and below the photo area. The backs had a blue and gray color scheme with stats and career highlights. Pitcher cards showed pitching stats while fielders displayed fielding stats based on the prior season’s performance.

Among the top rookie cards in the 1987 Donruss set were future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Tom Glavine. Griffey’s explosive rookie season made his Donruss RC extremely popular. At just 17 years old in 1987, he hit .336 with 25 doubles and 13 home runs for the Seattle Mariners. His dazzling play and five-tool potential had collectors eagerly searching packs for his rookie. Glavine also made his MLB debut in 1987 and his Donruss rookie remains one of the more iconic pitcher cards from the 1980s era.

Other notable rookies included future 300-game winner Greg Maddux, slugger Will Clark, pitcher Mark Langston, and outfielders Mookie Wilson and Tim Raines. While none may have had the hype of Griffey or Glavine at the time, these players all went on to have outstanding MLB careers making their rookie cards valuable in the long run. The set as a whole proved to have strong longevity in the hobby given how many future stars were featured early in their playing days.

Some key veteran stars included on cards in the 1987 Donruss set were Ryne Sandberg, Wade Boggs, George Brett, Cal Ripken Jr., Roger Clemens, Ozzie Smith, and Dave Winfield. These were some of the game’s top active players at the time and their inclusion added to the cachet of the product. Donruss also had team marketing deals that year with the Boston Red Sox and Cincinnati Reds, so starters like Boggs, Dwight Evans, and Eric Davis received flashy teal bordered team cards alongside their base issue.

Beyond the impressive rookie class and star veterans, one of the most notable aspects of 1987 Donruss were the creative photographer concepts and poses used on many of the cards. For example, Kirby Puckett’s card showcased him dramatically diving for a ball. Orel Hershiser had an aerodynamic windup pose captured. And Dennis Martinez’s card pictured him holding a live bird behind his back during delivery in a whimsical moment. These creative shots separated Donruss fromTopps’ more traditional headshot approach.

When it was released in 1987, the Donruss set retailed for about $1 per pack with 24 cards inside (12 packs per wax box). Despite competition from sets like Topps and Fleer, it performed well on store shelves due to the popularity of rookie stars Griffey and Glavine. Since then, the 1987 Donruss set has become a collector favorite of the late 1980s era. Key rookie cards like Griffey, Glavine and Raines hold significant modern value. And vintage buyers appreciate the creative photography concepts throughout. For baseball card enthusiasts of the period, 1987 Donruss was truly a standout annual release.

The 1987 Donruss baseball card set proved to have excellent longevity and collector interest. Featuring future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Glavine and a strong class of rookies, it captured many notable players early in their careers. Donruss also employed innovative photography that made the cards visually unique. While it faced competition upon release, 1987 Donruss has emerged as one of the iconic baseball card products from the decade. Loaded with stars both established and emerging, it provides a comprehensive snapshot of the time period and remains a highly collectible vintage issue.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE SET

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The 1987 Topps Baseball Cards are considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the 1980s. Produced by Topps, the 1987 issue marked the 66th year Topps had been producing baseball cards. With 792 total cards in the base set, the 1987 Topps cards featured every Major League player as well as managers and coaches. Given its large size and historic nature, the 1987 Topps set holds significant nostalgic and collector value even today.

Some key details about the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards that add to its appeal and value include:

The set included the last cards featuring players like Don Baylor, Bobby Grich, Paul Molitor, and Ryne Sandberg in their iconic uni’s before trades. This makes cards of stars in their original teams very desirable.

Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine, David Justice, and Greg Maddux were included in the base set, greatly increasing the value of those specific cards.

The design featured team logo borders around each photo with fun facts on the back, harkening back to the classic Topps look of the 1950s/60s. This retro aesthetic is appreciated by collectors.

The postseason update and playoff summary cards included in Series Two document a historic World Series between the Minnesota Twins and St. Louis Cardinals, making those cards particularly sought after.

The sheer size of the base set at 792 cards means finding a complete, well-centered and graded set in high condition is extremely challenging. Only the most serious collectors would own a true gem mint set.

In terms of individual 1987 Topps card values, here are some examples of highly valued and desirable singles in the set:

Nolan Ryan (Card #305) – One of the most iconic baseball cards ever. High grade PSA/BGS 10 examples can fetch $10,000+.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (Card #481) – Among the most valuable modern rookie cards. Near mint to gem copies sell for $500-1500.

Tom Glavine Rookie (Card #663) – The ace lefty’s first card. PSA 9’s sell for $175-250, PSA 10’s command $350-500.

Greg Maddux Rookie (Card #667) – Mad Dog’s rookie is almost as coveted as Glavine’s. PSA 9 value is $150-225, PSA 10 is $300-400.

Ozzie Smith (Card #631) – Considered one of the greatest defensive shortstops ever. High graded PSA/BGS gems over $500.

Donruss Error (Card #404) – Rare printing plate error card. Just a few are known to exist. Worth thousands to the right collector.

Series Two Craig Biggio Rookie (Card #680) – One of the most valuable rookie cards from the ’80s. Near mint to gem copies sell for $650-1,500.

While the base cards are substantial in their own right, the 1987 Topps set also included several premimum and rare parallel subsets that stand out:

Glossy All-Stars – Rare shiny foil version of 60 All-Star players cards. Complete 60-card sets sell for upwards of $3,000.

Photo Shield – Color action shots of 30 players licensed from Sports Illustrated. Complete high-grade sets valued at $1,500-2,500.

Mini Leaders – 29 cards featuring record-holding players portraits in a mini 3×2 sized format. Complete high-grade examples around $700-900.

Printing Plates – Extremely rare uncut printing plates from the issues different plates. Indviidual plates valued over $1,000 depending on condition and which card shown.

So whether collecting the entire mammoth 792 card base set, seeking valuable rookie cards, or acquiring a premiun parallel subset, the 1987 Topps Baseball issue remains a highly valuable and endlessly compelling vintage release for collectors. Its perfect storm mix of design nostalgia, star power, and document history make it stand out as one of the greatest and most investable sets from the 1980s. Graded gem examples of key cards will likely continute their steady rise over time as nostalgia for the era grows.

The massive size and classic design elements found throughout the 1987 Topps Baseball Card set resonate deeply with collectors even decades later. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Glavine and Maddux paired with the careers captured of Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith make the base cards eminently collectible on their. Premium parallel subsets like the Glossy All-Stars and Printing Plates add tremendous scarcity and investment potential as well. For these reasons, the 1987 Topps set maintains an elite status among collectors and its individual cards continue appreciating strongly based on long-term demand and appreciation for 1980s culture.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE 1987

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. Donruss released their cards annually from 1981-1992 and the 1987 set in particular featured some of the biggest young stars and future Hall of Famers of that era. While the 1980s Donruss designs were not as flashy or innovative as some of their competitors like Topps or Fleer, they had a classic, understated look that has endured. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top rookies, stars and valuable cards from the 1987 Donruss set as well as factors that influence their prices today.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable rookie card from the 1987 Donruss set is that of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Joe Carter. As a highly touted prospect, Carter’s rookie card carried significant hype upon its release. He would go on to have a solid 19-year MLB career, winning World Series titles in 1992 and 1993 with the Blue Jays. It was Carter’s dramatic World Series winning home run for Toronto in 1993 that truly cemented his legacy and made his rookie card a highly sought after piece of baseball memorabilia. In top graded gem mint condition, a PSA 10 Carter rookie has sold for over $2,000. Even lower graded copies in excellent condition can fetch $300-$500.

Another hugely valuable rookie card from the 1987 Donruss set is that of Boston Red Sox legend Wade Boggs. Already an established star by 1987 with multiple batting titles under his belt, Boggs’ rookie card still holds nostalgic appeal for collectors. His career .328 batting average is the highest of any player since the end of World War II with over 3,000 hits. Near mint to mint Boggs rookies in PSA 8-9 condition have sold in the $500 range in recent years. Higher grades above PSA 9 can bring over $1,000. For Red Sox fans and collectors of batting greats, the Boggs rookie is a true prize.

While rookie cards tend to garner the most attention, stars early in their careers can also hold significant value. One of the most valuable base cards from the 1987 Donruss set belongs to New York Mets pitcher Dwight Gooden. Already a Cy Young winner in 1985 at just 20 years old, “Doc” Gooden was one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball during the mid-1980s. Near perfect PSA 10 copies of his 1987 Donruss card have sold for over $800. Even well-centered examples in PSA 8-9 grade sell consistently for $150-$300. Gooden’s prodigious talent and New York marketability made his cards hugely popular.

Another hugely valuable star card from 1987 Donruss is that of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Bell. Bell would win the American League MVP award in 1987 after batting .308 with 47 home runs and 134 RBI. This breakout season made his base card one of the most sought after in the set. High grade PSA 10 Bell cards have reached $500 at auction. Even well-centered PSA 8 examples can sell for $100-$250 depending on demand. For Blue Jays fans and collectors of 1980s sluggers, the George Bell card is a must-have.

While the biggest stars naturally draw the highest prices, there are also several valuable short print and parallel cards within the 1987 Donruss set. One of the most coveted is the Brett Butler “black panel” short print, which features a black strip along the bottom instead of the typical yellow Donruss design. Numbered to only 100 copies, high grade Butler black panels have reached over $1,000 at auction. Another rare parallel is the “gum back” version which has the original factory gum still attached on the reverse. These scarce gumback cards for stars like Gooden, Carter and Boggs can sell for $500 or more depending on condition.

Of course, the true holy grails for any 1987 Donruss collector are the elusive Mike Schmidt and Nolan Ryan rookie cards. Alas, these were never produced by Donruss and only exist as proofs or prototypes. One example is the Mike Schmidt proof card that recently sold at auction for an astonishing $46,800. While most collectors will never own cards of this caliber, it shows just how coveted and valuable the true “big ticket” items from the 1987 Donruss set have become. Condition and scarcity are huge factors when it comes to determining value.

The 1987 Donruss baseball card set remains a highly collectible and valuable issue over 30 years later. Featuring rookie cards of future stars like Joe Carter along with breakout seasons from players like Dwight Gooden and George Bell, it captured an exciting time in the sport. Short prints, parallel issues, and especially high graded examples of the top rookie and star cards continue to attract strong prices from dedicated collectors and investors. With its classic design aesthetic and historical significance, the 1987 Donruss set endures as one of the most recognizable and coveted releases from the junk wax era of the 1980s.

1987 BURGER KING BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Burger King Baseball Cards represented a major leap for one of the most ubiquitous promotions in the sport’s history – the fast food baseball card. From 1978 to 1997, Burger King issued 40 different series of baseball cards as part of their highly successful “BK Baseball Card” promotion. The 1987 edition stands out as arguably the most desirable and collectible of the entire promotion.

The 1987 cards marked the tenth anniversary of the Burger King baseball card program and the company spared no expense to commemorate the milestone. For the first time since the promotion began in 1978, the 1987 cards featured custom artwork instead of reprints of action shots from Topps or other traditional card brands. Burger King hired the renowned illustrator Dick Perez to create original drawings depicting players from all 26 Major League teams at the time. Perez’s dynamic pen and ink style added a new level of visual appeal that collectors found highly memorable and aesthetically pleasing.

In addition to the original Perez artwork, several other factors contributed to the heightened popularity and value of the 1987 BK cards. First, the inclusion of all 26 teams for the first time allowed collectors to chase complete primary team sets in addition to chasing individual star players. Previous BK issues often left out smaller market clubs which frustrated completionists. The 1987 set also featured league leaders and All-Stars including Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, Kirby Puckett, Barry Bonds and many more.

Perhaps most importantly, Burger King massively increased production numbers to meet anticipated demand for the 10th anniversary promotion. Previous BK issues tended to number in the millions of cards produced whereas estimates suggest 1987 production reached over 50 million cards inserted into specially marked kid’s meals across the country. The combination of desirable content, original artwork, inclusion of all teams and high print run opened 1987 BK cards up to a much wider collecting audience beyond the niche of previous issues.

As one of the most widely distributed sports promotions ever, the 1987 BK cards gained instant mainstream popularity upon release. It was in the decades since that really cemented their status as one of the Holy Grails of the vintage food promotion era. Factors like the custom Perez artwork, the nostalgia of players popular in the late 80s, and the sheer number in circulation have kept serious collectors actively pursuing 1987 BK cards for over 30 years.

Some key things continue to drive interest and demand. The Perez drawings have aged remarkably well and appeal to adult collectors with childhood memories of the issue. The visual novelty compared to typical reprint driven card promotions also gives 1987 BK cards a unique aesthetic nostalgia. Sets of entire teams can still be challenging to assemble due to the high original print runs sustaining the market. And the fact that nearly every serious vintage collector chased these as a kid means a certain percentage will always look to upgrade rosters as the years pass.

1987 BK cards also carry cultural nostalgia as iconic representations of 1980s baseball cards before the specs boom of the 1990s. Burger King promotions today tend to lack the visual splendor or mass appeal of their golden age issues from the 70s/80s. A complete 1987 set instantly transports collectors back to a simpler time of youth baseball fandom.

Prices have risen steadily over the decades since issue to reflect all of these factors. Near mint examples of the most coveted stars today sell for hundreds while pristine team sets can command thousands. The highest price ever paid at auction for a 1987 Burger King card was $1,845 in 2018 for a mint graded Kirby Puckett. Clearly the potential rewards outweigh the risks for collectors still searching high and low for that elusive Perez artwork of their childhood favorite player.

For all these reasons, the 1987 Burger King Baseball Card issue is remembered as the crowning achievement of the longest running fast food sports card promotion ever. It represents the pinnacle of design, content, production values and collectibility within the category. Serious vintage collectors continue filling inexhaustible desires to revisit their youth through pursuing the icon that started it all – a 1987 Burger King Bazooka Joe’s kid’s meal baseball card. The legacy and mystique of this modern classic is sure to endure for collectors old and new for decades to come.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL ERROR CARDS

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set is renowned among collectors for containing some of the most valuable and significant error cards ever produced. While errors are common in the mass production of sports cards, a few stand out from the 1987 Fleer issue that captivate the attention of hobbyists to this day. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notorious mistakes from the 1987 Fleer checklist and explore what makes these variants so unique.

One of the most famous errors from 1987 Fleer is the “Billy Ripken F-Word” card. Card number 638 in the base set was supposed to feature Orioles’ second baseman Billy Ripken in a typical baseball pose. An obvious mistake was made – when the negative was placed on the printing plate, the words “F*** Face” were visible on Ripken’s bat. It’s believed someone wrote this as a joke in the locker room and it went unnoticed during the photo and production process. Naturally, this caused Fleer tremendous embarrassment once collectors began opening packs. While most of the error cards were pulled, a few lucky finders managed to acquire the now infamous variant, which can fetch $10,000-$15,000 in gem mint condition today.

Another standout mistake involved Mets’ pitcher Dwight Gooden on card number 281. On Gooden’s proper issue, he is pictured from the chest up in a Mets’ uniform. Around 10 examples exist that mistakenly used an action shot of Gooden pitching which obscured most of his face. While not as scandalous as the Ripken, the rarity of these “headshot” Dwight Gooden errors make them a true prize for diehard collectors, earning over $5,000 in top grades.

An untold number of 1987 Fleer cards were afflicted by missing signature errors. Players’ autographs were a new inclusion that year but some slipped through QC without being applied. The most valuable absent-autograph errors involve hall of famers like Ryne Sandberg, Ozzie Smith, and Don Sutton. Without a signature, these variations can sell for $300-$700 depending on condition and demand. Other missing signature errors abound too for stars like Wade Boggs, Tim Raines, and Jim Rice.

Beyond missing signatures, there were mistakes with signatures themselves. Perhaps the most eye-catching occurred on card #78 featuring Cubs’ first baseman Leon Durham. While the majority of issues have Durham’s name autographed in blue ink, approximately 10 examples exist where his signature was erroneously filled in multiple colors resembling a rainbow. This visually stunning error can sell for over $2000 today. Another signature mishap befell Dodgers’ hurler Orel Hershiser on card #315 – a small number of prints show an extra loop on the tail of the ‘R’ in his autograph.

Most errors from 1987 Fleer involve distinguishing negative or printing flaws, but perhaps no mistake was stranger than Mark Langston’s card #384. While Langston is pictured as normal in Angels’ attire, some prints wrongly placed his name and stats on the back of Expos’ pitcher Bill Gullickson, who has Langston’s stats on the back of his card instead. How this swap occurred is anyone’s guess but it makes for two highly confusing yet collectible variants.

Beyond specific player variants, there were also anomalies with team logos, colors, and uniform designs. The Tigers and Pirates logos were inadvertently swapped on several cards throughout the set. Unusual color renditions of uniforms appear, like cream-colored Expos and Reds jerseys instead of the proper blue and red respectively. Design elements on certain cards also printed with missing or extra stripes, pinstripes, or gradients versus the standard issues.

Of course, miscuts were inevitably part and parcel of the 1987 Fleer production cycle as well. Examples exist where the cardboard stock was cut off-center, revealing parts of another player’s photo on the same card. In particularly dramatic miscuts, sections of 2-3 different players can be observed on a single variant. Miscuts involving stars multiply an error’s value several times over for collectors.

The numerous mistakes throughout the 1987 Fleer baseball card set have kept enthusiasts fascinated and searching packs for 35 years. Errors provide a history lesson in mass production while also satisfying our innate attraction to the rare and unique. For errors of specific players like Ripken, Gooden, and Durham, finding an example is a true trophy piece for any collection. The saga of the 1987 Fleer errors has become intertwined with the fabric of the hobby.