Tag Archives: 1987

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 COMPLETE SET TRIVIA

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and collectible card issues of all-time. As the flagship set released during the height of the baseball card boom era in the late 1980s, the ’87 Topps cards hold a significant place in the history of the hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at some interesting trivia and details surrounding the complete 660 card base set.

The ’87 Topps set marked the 26th year Topps had produced baseball cards under an exclusive license with Major League Baseball. Some of the bigger storylines and players featured included Roger Clemens’ record-setting 20 strikeout game, the Cardinals capturing the World Series title, and rookie sensation Mark McGwire launching his career with the Athletics. Beyond the on-field action, the visual design of the 1987 cards also pioneered several trends that would carry through to future issues.

One of the most iconic aspects of the ’87 Topps design was the team logo plastered across the entire bottom portion of each card front. This was the first year Topps incorporated such a bold use of team logos in the foreground of the cards. It helped instantly identify each player’s team affiliation. The liberal usage of bright team colors and logos on the borders and backgrounds also remained a visual staple for Topps through the late ’80s and early ’90s.

Of the 660 total cards in the ’87 set, there was an unprecedented mix of 656 different major and minor league players plus 4 manager/coach cards. The manager cards featured Tommy Lasorda of the Dodgers, Sparky Anderson of the Tigers, Dick Howser of the Royals, and Whitey Herzog of the Cardinals. Giancarlo Maldonado became the first Puerto Rican-born player featured in the main Topps base set with his inclusion at card #25.

Every team was assigned a unique box design found on the reverse of each player card. Organized alphabetically, teams ranged from the Angels box design at cards 1-32 to the White Sox box found on cards 629-660. Each box highlighted the team name, logo, and stats from the previous season. This was another visual innovation Topps incorporated to brand each MLB franchise for collectors.

Beyond the base 660 card issue, Topps also produced severalparallel and specialtysubsets. Some of the more notableinclude:

53 card Traded set highlighting players who switched teams via trades between the 1986-87 seasons.
98 card Update/Late Issue series added players who debut late or were left out of the main set.
91 card Stadium Club premium retail issue spotlighting each MLB park.
20 unnumbered Turn Back The Clock retro style cards featuring older stars.
6 card U.S. Olympians subset saluting players who competed in the 1988 Summer Games.

Proving to be one of the toughest cards to find in mint condition is the basic checklist card found at position #660. With such a late number in the sequence, the checklist endured a lot of wear and tear versus higher number cards. The #1 Roger Clemens card is also notoriously tricky to locate in pristine condition due to its premier position as the flag bearer for the entire set.

In terms of notable rookie cards included, the ’87 Topps issue introduced Hall of Famers Tom Glavine at #521 (Mets), Jeff Bagwell at #572 (Red Sox), and Trevor Hoffman at #647 (Reds). Mark McGwire’s rookie card resides at #480 as the slugger began taking the league by storm with the Oakland A’s. Barry Bonds also had his rookie card appearance at #250 as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.

When it comes to autograph variations, the most treasured of the 1987 Topps autographed cards features a signed Cal Ripken Jr. residing at position #87 in the base issue. Renowned artist Norm Saunders also contributed an autographed sketch card that was given exclusively to the Topps Board of Directors as a bonus/promo item outside of the main released set.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set defined the sport’s late 1980s “junk wax” era while also possessing several aspirational rookie cards and unique design traits that keep it an engaging collectible today. Whether seeking pristine conditioned examples of stars like Clemens or McGwire, or simply appreciating the visual time capsule of vintage team logos and uniforms, the ’87 Topps cards hold a storied place in the 120+ year history of the iconic American trading card company.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS TOP 10

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was the 66th series issued by Topps and featured cards of players from that year’s American and National Leagues. With 792 total cards, the ‘87 Topps set showcased all the biggest names and rising stars in the game at the time. While not the most valuable vintage set overall, it contained several highly sought after rookie and star player cards that have grown in popularity with collectors in recent decades. Here’s a look at the top 10 most important and valuable 1987 Topps baseball cards based on their historical and cultural significance, as well as current market values:

Barry Larkin Rookie Card (#356)

Barry Larkin would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Cincinnati Reds, winning an MVP award in 1995. His rookie card from the ‘87 Topps set holds significance as one of the more affordable star player rookie cards from that era in good condition. Graded Mint 9 examples recently sold for around $80-150, showing its enduring popularity. Larkin was one of the premier shortstops of the 1990s and his Topps rookie remains a staple in sets from that time period.

Ozzie Smith (#92)

Already an All-Star and Gold Glove winner by 1987, Ozzie Smith was one of the premier defensive shortstops in baseball during the 1980s. His crisp, clean-cut look and back flipping antics made him a fan favorite as well. The 1987 Topps Ozzie Smith card remains one of the definitive baseball cards commemorating his impressive career. Higher graded versions in Mint 8 or above have sold for $150-300 in recent years, with its value steadily increasing among collectors.

Barry Bonds (#266)

Considered one of the greatest players of all time statistically, Barry Bonds’ career and legacy is still hotly debated among fans due to performance enhancing drug accusations later in his career. His rookie card from 1987 Topps is significant as one of the early cards showing his potential before drug controversies. Still a bit overlooked compared to other stars from that era, decent condition Barry Bonds rookies sell in the $80-150 range today. With time, this card may grow in notoriety and value.

Roger Clemens (#264)

Another dominant career marred by later steroid allegations, Roger Clemens established himself as one of baseball’s top pitchers starting in the late 1980s. His 1887 Topps rookie card remains an iconic piece from that vintage set. Higher graded CGA-slabbed versions in Gem Mint 9+ condition recently sold for over $400 due to his pitching accomplishments and notoriety. While tarnished now due to controversies, Clemens’ Topps rookie will likely remain a seminal card from the late 20th century era.

Eric Davis Rookie Card (#373)

Injuries prevented Eric Davis from reaching his full potential, but he was a superstar when healthy based on speed, power and defense ability. His rookie card has appreciated well in recent years due to his flashy playmaking style and the scarcity of pristine graded copies. A PSA 10 version last sold for over $800, and even lower graded copies in the $100-200 range are steadily climbing in secondary market value among collectors. Davis’ speed and highlight reel plays made this one of the more exciting rookies from 1987 Topps.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#150)

Even prior to breaking Lou Gehrig’s famed consecutive games played streak, Cal Ripken Jr. was one of baseball’s most promising young stars in the late 1980s. His dependable performances helped restore faith in the game during that period. The 1987 Topps Ripken rookie remains iconic for capturing him at the beginning of his epic career. Higher graded PSA/CGA Gem Mint 10 examples now sell for $2,000-3,000 due to his hallowed status in Cooperstown. A true cornerstone of the hobby from the vintage ‘87 set.

Rafael Palmeiro (#613)

With over 3000 career hits and 500 home runs, Rafael Palmeiro put together a Hall of Fame caliber resume prior to later steroid scandals clouding his legacy. His Topps rookie is quite scarce in pristine condition due its late card number (#613). As a result, even lower graded copies remain popular investments at $100-300. A PSA 10 Palmeiro rookie sold very recently for over $2000. An intriguing but controversial star player card from the set.

Mark McGwire (#207)

Already displaying prodigious power in 1987, Mark McGwire’s iconic battle with Sammy Sosa helped revive baseball’s popularity in the late 1990s. His Topps rookie is one of the most well-known from that decade. High-grade PSA/BGS versions bring thousands today due to nostalgia for Big Mac’s home run race and MLB single season record. Even amid later revelations, McGwire’s ‘87 Topps RC remains a cherished piece of baseball card history.

Jose Canseco (#667)

As MLB’s first 40/40 player, Jose Canseco was a revolutionary five-tool talent when debuting in the late 1980s. His rookie card is among the scarcest in the ‘87 Topps set due to its late printing number. Even heavily playednear-raw copies sell for $50-100 based purely on his notoriety from the ‘Bash Brothers’ era. Pristine Canseco rookies grade 9 or above are worth $400-800 today and likely to appreciate over time as a genuine piece of baseball innovation history.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1)

Widely considered the most prized baseball card in existence, Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie debuted as the coveted card #1 slot in Topps flagship 1987 set. “The Kid” became a 13x All-Star known for dazzling athleticism and joy for the game. His smile, swing and talents captured the imagination of a generation of fans. PSA 10 Griffey rookies have reached $10,000-25,000 depending on market conditions, showing no signs of losing value long-term. Simply put, for culture impact and investment potential, Griffey’s Topps RC stands alone as the most important card in the set.

While conditions have prevented some from holding value as strongly, the 1987 Topps set contained iconic rookie cards and players that still hold nostalgic appeal for collectors across generations. Stars like Ripken, McGwire, Griffey and others defined the late 80s/90s eras and have ensured this set remains a cornerstone in the vintage baseball card market.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PAT DODSON

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The 1987 Topps baseball card featuring pitcher Pat Dodson holds a unique place in the history of baseball cards. While Dodson had a relatively non-descript major league career pitching for the San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs from 1984-1990, his 1987 rookie card tells the story of a promising young arm whose career was derailed by injuries.

Pat Dodson was drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 1983 June amateur draft out of Cal State Fullerton. He rose quickly through the Giants system, making his MLB debut in 1984 at just 21 years old. In 1986 he split time between the Giants and their Triple-A affiliate in Phoenix, showing glimpses of the potential that made him an early-round draft pick. Dodson owned a mid-90s fastball and sharp breaking ball, but struggled with his control at times which led to high walk totals.

Going into the 1987 season, Dodson had the inside track to lock down a spot in the Giants rotation. Sports Illustrated listed him as one of the Giants’ top 5 prospects heading into the year. The 1987 Topps card captured Dodson at a pivotal moment—his rookie card signified he had arrived and was on the verge of cementing his place in the big leagues. Standing tall with a windup, Dodson stares down at the batter with steely determination on his face. In the backdrop is Candlestick Park, home of the Giants. It seemed Dodson was ready to make his mark at the major league level.

Injury derailed what was to be Dodson’s coming out party season. He made five starts for the Giants in April and was impressive, going 2-1 with a 2.70 ERA. But in his sixth start on April 27th against the Montreal Expos, Dodson felt a pop in his elbow while throwing a pitch. He was diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament, ending his season after just 28.1 innings pitched. Dodson underwent reconstructive elbow surgery, commonly known as “Tommy John surgery”, to repair the ligament.

The timeline for return from Tommy John surgery in the late 1980s was much longer than it is today. Modern surgical techniques and rehabilitation have shortened the average recovery time to around 12-18 months. But for Dodson, the injury could not have come at a worse time in his development. He missed the entire 1988 season recovering and rehabbing. By the time he was ready to return in the spring of 1989, the Giants had replaced him in their plans. He spent most of the season in the minors, tossing just 13 mediocre innings for San Francisco.

The 1987 Topps card serves as a bittersweet reminder of what could have been for Dodson. His rookie card carries extra significance since it stands as a reminder of the promise he showed pre-injury that was never fully realized. He bounced between the minors and majors over the next two seasons before his contract was purchased by the Cubs in 1990. But Dodson was never able to regain top form after surgery. He pitched in just 49 more major league games over parts of three seasons before retiring from pro ball after 1992 at just 27 years old.

While Dodson’s career flamed out prematurely due to injury, his 1987 Topps rookie card lives on as a symbol of a can’t-miss pitching prospect who was waylaid before reaching his potential. It places the viewer right at the threshold of Dodson’s major league career before misfortune struck. For fans and researchers of baseball cards, it heightens an awareness of how fragile an athlete’s career can be and reminds us that injuries can instantly transform a future star into just another ‘what if’ story. Over three decades later, Dodson’s rookie card still sparks intrigue and nostalgia for what might have been.

DONRUSS BASEBALL PUZZLE AND CARDS 1987

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most unique and collectible issues in the history of the hobby. Not only did it feature players’ photos on the front of the cards for the first time, but it also included a puzzle promotion that sparked a nationwide frenzy among kids and adults alike.

Donruss had produced fairly standard baseball cards throughout the 1980s, using simple designs with stats on the back and team logos or action shots on the front. For 1987 they opted to put the focus squarely on the players by showing headshots of each guy from cap-to-jersey. This change helped make the players feel more like celebrities and icons to collectors.

But it was the puzzle promotion that truly set the ’87 Donruss set apart. On the reverse of every card was a small piece of a larger baseball-themed picture. If you collected the entire 660-card base set, you could assemble the full puzzle which depicted a scene from a game at Wrigley Field. Naturally, kids everywhere were enticed by the challenge of completing this massive jigsaw.

The puzzle craze dominated the baseball card collecting landscape that summer. Kids traded furiously to find cards from other teams and players they didn’t normally collect. Stores had trouble keeping the wax packs in stock. The demand was unprecedented. For many kids, it marked their first serious foray into the hobby. And for those who finished the puzzle, there was a great sense of accomplishment.

While the puzzle was the initial draw, the photography and design of the ’87 Donruss set has also contributed to its longevity. Photos of sluggers like Mark McGwire and Will Clark really capture their physical presence in crisp detail. Rookies such as Barry Larkin and Tom Glavine received some of their best early portrayals. Even lesser stars got memorable snapshots.

The puzzle wasn’t the only insert included, either. Donruss produced parallel sets like ‘Donruss Diamond Kings’ highlighting the sport’s biggest stars. Special rookie cards for Ben McDonald, Gregg Jefferies and others added to the excitement. And subsets like ‘Donruss Leaders’ and ‘Donruss Hall of Famers’ gave collectors varied chase categories beyond the base cards.

In the decades since, the ’87 Donruss set has maintained a strong fanbase. Its innovative puzzle aspect, iconic photography and memorable rookie class continue to attract collectors. PSA-graded gem mint examples of stars like McGwire, Larkin and Glavine routinely sell for hundreds on the secondary market. Even common players command respectable prices due to the set’s enduring popularity.

The puzzle promotion also had some unforeseen long-term impacts. It helped cement baseball cards as a mainstream hobby for both children and adults. And it showed manufacturers that insert cards and chase strategies could boost interest – paving the way for the inserts and parallels that are ubiquitous today. While the puzzle craze was short-lived, its influence on the industry proved lasting.

When the dust settled on the 1987 season, Donruss had undoubtedly produced one of the most significant releases in the history of sports cards. Between the puzzle, photography, designs and star rookies, it captured the baseball world’s imagination like few sets before or since. The ’87 Donruss cards remain a touchstone for collectors and a window into a peak period for the hobby. For both its innovations and what it exemplifies about the golden age of baseball cards, it is a true gem in the catalog.

1987 BASEBALL ALL TIME GREATS CARDS

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The 1987 Topps All-Time Greats baseball card series spotlighted many of the sports’ greatest players throughout history. With vivid portraits and concise career recaps on the back, the 80-card set paid tribute to legends from the earliest days of professional baseball up through the 1970s. By casting its collector net so widely both temporally and positionally, the 1987 Topps All-Time Greats collection became one of the most iconic and treasured vintage releases in the hobby.

Among the headliners included were Babe Ruth, who has long been viewed as the game’s ultimate icon. Ruth’s card showed him in a Yankees uniform, bat casually slung over his shoulder as he smiles out at collectors. His back details his record 714 career home runs along with World Series wins in 1921, ’22, ’23, and ’27. Another true pillar of the early sport, Ty Cobb also received his own card depicting him in a Tigers jersey, glaring out with the intense competitiveness that helped him accumulate career records in batting average and stolen bases still unmatched over a century later.

Branch Rickey, widely considered one of baseball’s greatest executives and innovators, had a card highlighting his crucial role in breaking the sport’s color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson to the Dodgers in 1947. Robinson himself, the trailblazer who overcame immense adversity and prejudice to become an all-time great ballplayer, got a shining tribute as well. His card shows him legging out an infield hit with perfect form and focus, a testament to the skill and determination that made him a six-time All-Star and National League MVP in 1949.

Pitching legends Christy Mathewson and Walter Johnson, the latter holding the all-time record for career strikeouts that stood for 56 years, each received well-earned recognition. Matty’s card portrayed him in a New York Giants uniform, capturing his elegant delivery and unhittable control. Meanwhile “The Big Train” Johnson towered over hitters on his card, perched on the mound with intimidating size and stuff that baffled AL batters for over two decades with the Washington Senators. Their generation of hurlers also included Grover Cleveland Alexander, whose amazing 40-win season of 1916 for the Phillies stood out on his baseball card.

Moving into the Golden Age of the 1920s and 30s, the cards paid homage to “The Georgia Peach” Ty Cobb’s feared rival, the incomparable hitter Rogers Hornsby, shown pulling away for yet another base hit for the Cardinals. His .358 career average remains the highest of all time. Hall of Fame teammates Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth were logically paired together, with Gehrig’s card proudly displaying his iconic durability in playing in 2,130 straight games for the Yankees before ALS cruelly cut his career short.

Pitching legends from the period included standouts Dizzy Dean, Lefty Grove, and Carl Hubbell, the latter known for his unhittable screwball that often had batters hopelessly swinging at three in a row during his 24-10 season of 1934 that led the Giants to a World Series title. Dean’s card depicted him in a Cardinals uniform, capturing his loose, violent delivery that brought him 150 career wins despite chronic shoulder issues cutting his career short. Meanwhile Lefty Grove was portrayed on the mound with his signature high leg kick and blazing fastball that racked up 300 wins between the A’s and Red Sox from 1925-1941.

The post-WWII era saw the emergence of integration and dynasty teams like the Yankees and Dodgers, with stars like Roy Campanella, Jackie Robinson, Pee Wee Reese, Duke Snider, Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale and more receiving well-deserved All-Time Greats commendations. Campy’s powerful catcher’s frame and all-round skills as the Dodgers’ cornerstone made him a constant presence behind the plate for Brooklyn from 1948-1957, highlighted on his card.

Meanwhile Koufax emerged as the most dominant pitcher of the 1960s, blessed with pinpoint control and a blazing fastball-curve combo. His accomplishments in wins, strikeouts and especially his three Cy Young Award/MVP seasons from 1962-1966 were enshrined alongside stats like his iconic 1965 record of erupting for four no-hitters, captured on his intense card portrait. Teammate Drysdale, part of Koufax’s devastating 1-2 punch for the Dodgers during their glory days, also made the All-Time Greats set with a card memorializing his dominance from 1956-1969 thanks to a blazing heater and sweeping slider.

The collection rounded out its coverage by paying due respects to living legends like Hank Aaron, still chasing Babe Ruth’s home run record in 1987 but by then the true “Home Run King” himself thanks to eclipsing the Bambino. Willie Mays’ iconic catch over his shoulder and Mickey Mantle’s tape measure blasts were also featured cards, while the dominant hurlers of the 1960s, Bob Gibson and Juan Marichal, received long-deserved spots as well. Stars from the ’70s like Johnny Bench, Reggie Jackson and Tom Seaver made the cut, making for an all-encompassing retrospective spanning the sport’s full history.

When it was released in 1987, the Topps All-Time Greats set was an instant blockbuster success that appealed to both casual and serious collectors alike. By spotlighting over eight decades of baseball legends through vivid imagery, stats and career highlights on the back, it brought the storied history of the national pastime vividly to life. Even today, the cards remain a constant source of nostalgia and fascination for vintage collectors hoping to track down overlooked gems from this seminal vintage issue. Its wide-ranging scope and talented photography saluting the pantheon of all-time great players ensures the 1987 Topps All-Time Greats set will remain one of the most iconic and desirable core collections for baseball card enthusiasts for generations to come.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 1987 PRICING

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1987 Donruss Baseball Card Pricing Guide

The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. With its vibrant photography and classic design aesthetic, the ’87 Donruss set launched the careers of several future Hall of Famers while also chronicling the end of eras for legendary stars nearing retirement. In this in-depth pricing guide, we’ll examine key factors that influence the value of 1987 Donruss cards and provide estimated price ranges for the most valuable rookie cards and legends of the set.

Release Details and Product Mix: The 1987 Donruss baseball card set consisted of 792 total cards issued in wax packs, factory sets, and cello boxes. The base card design featured a colorful team logo at the top with a large action photo taking up most of the front of the card. Short player stats were listed on the bottom back. Parallels included ’87 Update, Traded, and Glossy versions of selected cards.

Rookie Phenoms Drive Interest and Prices: Two of the most coveted rookies in the entire ’80s era debuted in the ’87 Donruss set – Toronto’s Roberto Alomar (#444) and Cincinnati’s Eric Davis (#481). In near-mint to mint condition, their rookie cards can fetch $150-$300 for Alomar and $100-$250 for Davis. Other valuable ’87 Donruss rookies include Frank Thomas (#628 – $75-150), Tom Glavine (#679 – $50-125), and David Justice (#701 – $40-100).

Stars of the Day Hold Strong Value: While no longer rookie cards, the flagship players of the late ’80s shine bright in the ’87 Donruss set. A PSA 10 graded Wade Boggs (#29) can sell for $500-800. The cards of Roger Clemens (#99), Ozzie Smith (#165), and Kirby Puckett (#268) regularly bring $150-350 in top condition. Darryl Strawberry (#315), Don Mattingly (#360), and Rickey Henderson (#386) round out premium star cards valued between $100-250.

Veteran Legends Near Retirement: Icons entering the twilight of their careers still attract collectors to the ’87 Donruss issue. A PSA 9 Nolan Ryan (#469) recently sold for over $400. Other elder statesmen such as Mike Schmidt (#502 – $150-300), George Brett (#527 – $125-250), and Jim Rice (#588 – $75-150) maintain strong followings.

Team and Parallels Variations: For dedicated team collectors, complete ’87 Donruss team sets can be quite valuable – especially for flagship franchises. A Chicago Cubs team set recently sold for nearly $1,000. Parallel cards like Traded and Glossy versions often double or triple the value of base counterparts in high grades. ’87 Update cards are also popular, with stars fetching over $100 in top condition.

Condition is King: As with any vintage sports card issue, the all-important grade from services like PSA or BGS can make or break the value of an ’87 Donruss card. Near-mint examples in the 8-9 range often settle in the $10-50 range depending on player. But that $400 Nolan Ryan was a rare PSA 9. Cards need to be very well-centered and show sharp corners/edges to achieve true high-end grades. Even small flaws can cut values significantly.

In Closing: The 1987 Donruss baseball card set endures as a classic of the era and remains a must-have for collectors of the sport’s biggest stars and rookie debuts. Key rookie phenoms and veteran legends lead the way in terms of demand and price points. But solid condition examples of almost any Hall of Famer or All-Star from the set retain collector interest and value. For those hunting true near-mint gems, the potential rewards could be well worth the effort.

BEST CARDS IN 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. While it didn’t feature any rookies that would go on to the Hall of Fame, there are still several cards that stand out as some of the best from that year. Let’s take a look at some of the top cards collectors seek out from the 1987 Topps set.

One of the most well-known and valuable cards from 1987 Topps is the Roger Clemens card. Clemens was already establishing himself as one of the game’s elite pitchers and would go on to win the American League Cy Young Award in 1986 and 1987. His card features him in a Boston Red Sox uniform and carries a photo negative image that makes it quite distinctive. In near mint condition, Clemens’ 1987 Topps card can fetch hundreds of dollars due to his pitching dominance and fame.

Another pitching great with an outstanding card is Nolan Ryan. By 1987, Ryan was in his late 30s but was still overpowering hitters as a member of the Houston Astros. His Topps card shows him mid-windup and his blazing fastball made him a fan favorite. Like Clemens, Ryan’s card remains quite valuable in high grades. His on-field accomplishments and iconic status in the game give this card lasting appeal for collectors.

A third pitcher with an elite 1987 Topps card is Dwight Gooden. As a 22-year old phenom with the New York Mets, “Doc” Gooden’s rookie season in 1984 saw him win both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award. By 1987, he was still in his prime and his ball-and-strike count Topps photo is a classic. Gooden’s early career success and his role in reviving baseball interest in New York City make this one of the most sought-after rookie/early career cards from the set.

While pitchers dominate the high-end cards from 1987 Topps, there are also position players with outstanding issue. One is Boston Red Sox star Wade Boggs. The 1987 season was Boggs’ first winning the American League batting title and his card shows him in the batter’s box. Boggs would go on to be a first ballot Hall of Famer and his consistent excellence at the plate gives his common Topps card strong collector demand.

Another position player card with lasting popularity is Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Bell. The 1987 season saw Bell win the American League MVP award by batting .308 with 47 home runs and 134 RBI. Not only was his MVP season career-defining, but his fun-loving persona made him a fan favorite in Toronto. Bell’s award-winning 1987 campaign is memorialized in his action-shot Topps card that remains a Canadian sports collectible classic.

While stars on winning teams receive the most acclaim, some players’ cards stand out due to unusual circumstances. One is Chicago Cubs first baseman Leon Durham. His 1987 Topps issue shows him in the field but is notorious for featuring the wrong team logo. Instead of the Cubs’ “C”, it shows the St. Louis Cardinals logo in error. While a mishap, the logo error makes Durham’s card one of the most intriguing anomalies in the set that collectors love to find.

The 1987 Topps set didn’t yield any rookie cards that reached icon status. It perfectly captured the performances of superstar pitchers like Clemens, Ryan, and Gooden who were dominating the league. Position player standouts like Boggs, Bell, and even the erroneously logo’d Durham card add to the set’s appeal and memory-making moments in baseball history. For these reasons, the cards of the game’s biggest stars from 1987 continue to entice collectors and rank among the most iconic and valuable in the entire set.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was issued during one of the most exciting eras in baseball history. Led by superstars like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith, the late 1980s featured incredible talents and intense pennant races. Not surprisingly, cards from the 1987 Fleer set remain highly sought after by collectors decades later. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards and their estimated values today.

One of the headliners of the ’87 Fleer set is the Roger Clemens rookie card. Clemens would go on to record a historic 20-strikeout game just a year later and cement his status as one of the greatest pitchers ever. In excellent mint condition, his rookie now fetches prices up to $8,000. Other rookie gems include Hall of Famers Barry Larkin, Will Clark, and Tim Raines. In top shape, a Larkin rookie can sell for around $500-800 while Clark and Raines rookies range from $150-400 depending on centering and corners.

Sluggers like Don Mattingly and Mark McGwire also have coveted rookie cards. A pristine Mattingly rookie has sold for over $2000. McGwire rookie prices have increased significantly since he admitted using steroids later in his career – a near-mint copy could cost over $1000. Perhaps the most iconic card in the set is the Wade Boggs “Chicken Man” issue, featuring the hitter enjoying a post-game meal. High grade Boggs “Chickens” have brought in well over $500 at auction.

Veteran superstars like Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, and Kirby Puckett had cards that have held strong value over time as well. The “Wizard of Oz” Ozzie Smith is a fan favorite, with a PSA 10 specimen changing hands for around $600-700. Rickey Henderson, MLB’s career stolen base king, has a PSA 10 that sells for $350-450 range. Kirby Puckett’s sweet swing made him a fan favorite in Minnesota – his ’87 Fleer has sold for $200-300 in top condition.

Other notables like Dennis Eckersley, Dwight Gooden, and Jack Morris have cards retaining significant collector interest decades later. Eckersley’s transition from starter to closer brought him newfound fame and his card sells for $150-250. Dwight Gooden, nicknamed “Doc,” was the NL Rookie of the Year in ’85 and won the ’85 Cy Young – his ’87 Fleer in pristine condition fetches $125-175. Jack Morris won the ’91 World Series with the Twins after years of excellence – his ’87 Fleer goes for $100-150.

Less heralded but solid veterans like Tim Raines, Bob Boone, and Tony Gwynn round out positions of value. A near-mint Raines sells in the $75-125 range. Bob Boone, who caught for the Angels and Royals, has seen modest appreciation – one in top condition sold for $50. Tony Gwynn, who became a Hall of Fame hitter, has cards that price around $60-100 based on his excellence and recent passing.

Of course, for every star listed, there were role players and prospects whose cards hold little intrinsic value. But for a set issued during baseball’s “Steroid Era,” ’87 Fleer cards of superstars, franchise players, and soon-to-be elite talents command respectable prices from dedicated collectors even decades later. The vintage appeal and nostalgia factor will ensure interest remains high for flagship cards showcasing the sports’ immortals from this exciting period. With scarcity a factor as the years pass, prices for ’87 Fleer standouts in pristine condition may continue their climb.

SPORTSCARD PRO 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was a hugely popular release that featured iconic players and rookie cards that have stood the test of time. Issued during the sport’s golden era, the ’87 Topps set contained 792 total cards and featured many of the game’s biggest stars during the primes of their impressive careers. Now over 30 years later, the 1987 Topps set remains a highly coveted and collectible set for both casual collectors and serious hobbyists alike.

One of the biggest storylines of the 1987 season was the pursuit of Roger Maris’ single season home run record of 61 set in 1961. That chase captivated the baseball world as Cardinals slugger Mark McGwire launched an assault on the record during his breakout season. McGwire crushed an MLB leading 49 home runs in 1987 and his formidable power display made him one of the set’s most sought after rookie cards. Other notable rookies found in the ’87 Topps set include future Hall of Famer Craig Biggio as well as Vince Coleman, Wally Joyner, and Gregg Olson.

Beyond the rookie talents, the 1987 Topps set was loaded with established superstars who were household names of the era. Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, Mike Schmidt, and Kirby Puckett each had iconic cards in the set. George Brett, Ozzie Smith, Dave Winfield, and Tony Gwynn were also among the game’s biggest offensive talents and their ’87 Topps cards remain well known in the hobby. Pitching legends Nolan Ryan, Steve Carlton, and Tom Seaver were still lighting up radar guns despite entering the later stages of their legendary careers. Collectors also look to pull cards of pitching aces like Dwight Gooden, Roger Clemens, and Joe Magrane from the ’87 set.

Beyond the talented players, Topps produced memorable photography and creative designs that added to the allure and nostalgia of the 1987 baseball card release. Bright yellow borders surrounded colorful action shots while team logos were prominently featured at the bottom of each card. Stat lines laid out key offensive and pitching numbers from the previous season to provide context of each player’s production. Backs of the cards contained biographical information and further career highlights to inform fans. Topps showed off its photographic skills by capturing moments both on and off the field to bring these players to life within the confines of each simple baseball card.

As the 1980s progressed, card collecting became a mainstream American pastime for both children and adults. Baseball cards were integrated into bubble gum, snack foods, and more to reach wider audiences. The rise of the sport on television through national broadcasts and highlight shows like ESPN’s SportsCenter only fueled more interest in players, statistics, and the accompanying card sets. More collectors meant higher initial print runs for sets like the 1987 Topps baseball card series. Decades of handling and exposure have thinned out the surviving population of intact ’87 Topps cards available in the current marketplace. The nostalgia and players featured make it a highly searched for set by collectors today.

While raw examples of common players can still be acquired for affordable prices, the most coveted rookie cards, stars of the era, and higher graded copies command top dollar. In gem mint condition, a PSA 10 grade Mark McGwire rookie now sells for well over $10,000. The Kirby Puckett and Tony Gwynn rookie PSA 10s have cracked the $4,000 mark as well. Even raw copies of those rookies can fetch a few hundred dollars. Hall of Fame talents have increasingly climbed upwards of $100 in raw form depending on the player. The combination of star power, design aesthetic, and nostalgia for the late 80s era have cemented the 1987 Topps baseball card set as a seminal release.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, the vintage baseball card market became sharply defined by the rise of third party grading through Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Slabbed or encapsulated examples became the preference in the marketplace as grading brought transparency to condition and holder labels lent authenticity. Grading also helped stabilize prices within assigned numeric tiers tied to mint status. PSA and BGS reinvigorated collecting by drawing in a new generation and emphasizing preservation of the classic cardboard. Their certification methods proved a boon for sets like 1987 Topps that evoke plenty of childhood memories and connect collectors across generations.

While the 1987 Topps set has endured for decades, not all of its stars maintained iconic status over the long run. For example, once-heralded rookies like Shawn Abner or Steve Adkins never panned out in the majors despite perceived promise. Their cards hold little value today. Conversely, hidden rookie gems outside the big name first years have seen renewed appreciation during modern vintage booms. Obscure first cards of Tom Glavine and David Justice have gained traction in recent years. Context also plays a role, as cards of role players on legendary franchises like the late 80s Mets and A’s rosters carry interest solely due to team affiliation. Overall condition reigns most important, but quirks and unique pieces add spice to the fun of collecting this storied baseball card release.

Now in its fourth decade since initial distribution, the 1987 Topps baseball card set shows no signs of slowing down as a targeted commodity for both novice and advanced collectors alike. Its iconic photography, powerful rookie class, and array of superstar talents remain a window to an era when the sport captured America’s imagination. While rarer high-grade specimens command premium escalating prices, affordable condition ranges satisfy nostalgic thrill-seekers browsing the discount bins too. The 1987 Topps set is a cornerstone within the vintage card world that will retain high demand and appreciation for the foreseeability future as a bridge between baseball’s past and present.

1987 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1987 baseball card season was one of the most memorable in the history of the hobby. Fans were transfixed by some incredible individual performances and playoff races that year. Meanwhile, major card companies like Topps, Fleer and Donruss issued hundreds of different baseball cards to collectors. With the passage of time, some of those 1987 baseball cards have grown tremendously in value for enthusiasts. Below is an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and desirable 1987 baseball cards that still fetch high prices among collectors today.

Perhaps the single most coveted and expensive 1987 baseball card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card issued by Upper Deck. Griffey was already one of the brightest young stars in baseball in 1987 and living up to enormous expectations. ButUpper Deck helped elevate the hobby to new heights when they debuted as the first new major baseball card manufacturer in over 2 decades. Their photographic quality and exquisite card designs were lightyears ahead of the competition. Naturally, Griffey’s rookie in the brand’s inaugural set is the crown jewel. With a sharp photo and classic design featuring his signature hat toss, it quickly became a must-have for any collection. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie now regularly sells for well over $10,000 and some have even changed hands for upwards of $25,000. No other 1987 card even comes close to rivaling its tremendous worth.

Another exceptionally valuable 1987 rookie is that of Hall of Famer Barry Bonds issued by Topps. Like Griffey, Bonds was already on his way to superstardom just one year into his big league career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His imposing physique and left-handed power swing were intimidating. Topps distributed Bonds’ first baseball card to the masses in 1987. Despite its more common nature compared to Griffey’s Upper Deck rookie, a pristine Bonds 1987 Topps rookie in a respected third-party grading company holder has still sold for as much as $3,500. It remains one of the most significant rookie cards for any player.

Two other top rookie cards from the famous 1987 season are Mark McGwire’s Fleer issue and Bo Jackson’s Topps card. McGwire was just beginning to show signs of the overwhelming power that would make him a star for Oakland and St. Louis. His first Fleer issue documents the beginnings of “Big Mac.” Graded mint examples have reached over $1,000 at auction. Meanwhile, Jackson was a true dual-sport phenomenon, playing baseball for the Kansas City Royals while still starring on Sundays in the NFL for the Los Angeles Raiders. Naturally, his baseball card debut in 1987 Topps was one of the most in-demand inclusions in the set. Even ungraded, a nice Jackson 1987 Topps rookie can sell for $500 or more because of his legendary athletic status.

The headlining rookies are not the only highly-valued 1987 cards, though. Veterans, stars and Hall of Famers from that season also hold considerable worth. One of the costliest is the Nolan Ryan expressed interest in 1987 Upper Deck card. As one of the original inclusions in the pioneering brand’s first baseball offering, it became a must-have. When paired with the fact that Ryan was already a living legend and on the verge of even more milestones, it helped drive up demand. Pristine examples with perfect centering have changed hands for over $1,500 before. Other star veterans like Ozzie Smith, Roger Clemens and Wade Boggs can also command four-figure prices in top condition from the monumental 1987 Upper Deck set alone.

Outside of Upper Deck, several star-studded 1987 rookies and veterans from Donruss and Fleer reside high on want lists as well. One is the Dwight Gooden rookie from Donruss, featuring “Doc” in classic Mets livery. It remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing baseball card designs ever. Graded mint Gooden rookies have reached up to $750. Fellow Mets legend Darryl Strawberry also has a desirable first Donruss issue. Over in Fleer, the Nolan Ryan “Astros” card showing him with Houston is coveted. When graded and preserved perfectly, examples from those inserts have changed hands for $500-600 alone in recent years. The iconic Ken Phelps error card from 1987 Donruss, mistakenly featuring his name but Mookie Wilson’s photo also resides in the four-figure range in mint condition.

While not necessarily rivals to the iconic rookies, stars and Upper Deck cards, select 1987 issues from lower print run brands like Score also hold value. Their reduced distributions and quality cardboard stock have made specimens from that year’s offerings slightly more elusive 35 years later. Among the most expensive include the Roger Clemens (#25), Cal Ripken Jr. (#7), Ozzie Smith (#27), Rickey Henderson (#5) and Eric Davis (#6) cards. When found in pristine condition protected long-term in professional slabs, those relatively more scarce Score inserts from the golden 1987 season have reached $400-550 in recent auction histories. It exemplifies how 35 years later, even cards outside the true blue-chip 1987 rookies and stars remain significant to dedicated collectors.

In summation, the memorable 1987 baseball season was truly one for the ages – both on the field and in the hobby. The arrival of new manufacturers like Upper Deck took trading cards to a new stratosphere. Meanwhile, all-time great rookies like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire and Bo Jackson had their cardboard coming out parties. Star veterans and Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith and Roger Clemens also shone bright. Dozens of their classic 1987 cardboard issues have grown enormously valuable as a result. For dedicated collectors, owning a pristine example of any of these blue-chip ’87 cards remains an impressive feat and sound investment today. The season’s cardboard legacy as one of the most collectible ever lives on.