Tag Archives: 1987

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was the seventh issued by Fleer and contained a total of 420 cards. Most notable was the inclusion of a career retrospective subset for Hall of Famer Stan Musial who was celebrating his 40th anniversary in Major League Baseball that season. The design was similar to previous Fleer issues with a horizontal card layout featuring the player’s image on a solid color backdrop. Some key details about the 1987 Fleer baseball cards include:

Base Set (Cards 1-420) – The base card checklist was similar to Topps and Donruss in highlighting the biggest stars and regular players from around the majors in 1987. Some of the top rookies included in the set were Mark Salas (Card #361), Jim Abbott (Card #74), and Gregg Olson (Card #375). Hall of Famers included in the base cards were Nolan Ryan (Card #11), Phil Niekro (Card #153), and Tom Seaver (Card #23).

Career Retrospective Subset (Cards 421-426) – For the first time, Fleer paid homage to a veteran player’s storied career with this 6-card subset focused on Stan Musial. Each card highlighted a different decade or aspect of Musial’s career from 1941-1957 with the St. Louis Cardinals. This included stats, accomplishments, and memorable moments to recognize Musial’s remarkable 22-year MLB career.

Traded/Update/Manager/Coach Cards (Cards 427-442) – Similar to other issues, Fleer had trade/update cards to account for players who changed teams after the initial checklist was finalized. These cards saw lower print runs. There were manager and coach cards as well.

Multi-Player/Team Cards (Cards 443-446) – Fleer included 4 special cards showing various players and teams together such as the 1986 World Series Champion New York Mets and All-Star teams.

Errors, Omissions, Variations – As with any large release, there were mistakes and variations. One notable error was #219 Mark Salas being shown in a San Diego Padres uniform despite being drafted and signed with the Minnesota Twins. Other wrong uniforms and statistical errors occurred as was typical for the time.

Checklist Values – Top rookie cards like Jim Abbott and Gregg Olson held strong early value. The Musial subset and Nolan Ryan base card were also highly regarded. Common base cards had only nominal worth initially while short-print updates gained premiums due to rarity. Over time, star and HOF’er cards like Tom Seaver, Tony Gwynn, and Dale Murphy rose in esteem. Condition remaining a key factor in pricing.

Release Highlights – Fleer distributed the 1987 set through traditional retailers like grocery and drug stores. The inserts honoring Stan Musial were lauded by fans and collectors alike. While the design lacked visual pop compared to competitors, strong rookie choices kept the issue appealing both on the field and in the collecting realm. Production numbers were high maintaining general availability and affordability over the long run for most cards in the set. It achieved the dual goals of commemorating baseball history while also spotlighting the current season.

The 1987 Fleer checklist captured the sport’s great past through the Musial career subset along with the rising future stars just starting their journeys. Quality rookie cards plus inclusion of perennial Fan Favorites made for an engaging issue to follow both the players portrayed and the vintage industry itself as the collecting boom began in full force. Those collecting for specific teams or individuals could find myriad options at reasonable costs thanks to Fleer’s distribution reach. It undoubtedly remains one of the more historically relevant and fondly remembered mid-1980s releases to this day.

FLEER BASEBALL CARDS 1987

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was a significant release that marked both change and continuity from previous years. It was the first year Fleer produced cards after losing the Topps license, so they had to establish themselves as a major baseball card company. At the same time, the set carried on many of the classic Fleer design elements collectors had come to expect.

With 405 total cards in the 1987 Fleer set, it was the largest release yet from the company. The size allowed for thorough coverage of both major and minor league rosters. Roster and team changes from the 1986 season were fully reflected. Notable call-ups like Mark McGwire and Barry Larkin received their rookie cards in the set after debuting in the big leagues the prior year. Veterans like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith anchored the collection with their star power.

Design-wise, the 1987 Fleer cards paid homage to previous aesthetics while incorporating some modern touches. The team logo was prominently displayed at the top in team colors. Player names, positions, and stats ran along the bottom border. Solid-colored borders separated the front image from any text. Photographs remained the primary focus, with crisp action shots that really let the players’ personalities shine through. Color was more vibrantly saturated than in earlier Fleer issues.

On the back, stats and career highlights received a clean, easy-to-read layout. Fleer’s trademark “Trading Card Checklist” ran along the right side, with players organized alphabetically to help collectors find specific cards. Glossy finish and thick cardboard stock maintained the premium feel collectors had come to expect from the brand. The classic yet refined design succeeded in maintaining Fleer’s identity independently of Topps.

Distribution of the 1987 Fleer set was a challenge initially without the backing of a major sports licensing deal. The sheer size of the set also presented issues for retailers. Many shops could not justify stocking all 405 unique cards. As a result, the most popular stars like Wade Boggs and Ozzie Smith proved quite difficult to obtain in the early going. Savvy collectors learned to trade duplicates with peers to complete their collections.

Over time, distribution and availability gradually improved. Fleer established new accounts with hobby shops and mass merchandisers. Promotional strategies like premium mail-aways helped drive demand. By the end of the 1987-88 offseason, most of the major card checklists could be fulfilled with diligent collecting or trading. The scarcity of the early release period only added to the allure and collectability of the set in subsequent years.

In the used market today, 1987 Fleer cards remain a staple for vintage baseball card collectors and investors. Rated among the top Fleer releases, the expansive team and player coverage is still appreciated. Hall of Fame inductees like Barry Larkin and Mark McGwire anchor the long-term value in their rookie cards. Star veterans like Wade Boggs and Ozzie Smith continue to command respect. Even commons from the set hold intrinsic nostalgia and remain widely obtainable for enthusiasts of any budget.

Grading and preservation has become increasingly important for high-end specimens of the 1987 Fleer set as the issue approaches its 35th anniversary. Gem Mint rookies like McGwire and Larkin regularly sell for thousands in top holders. Even commons can gain substantial value crossing the magic thresholds of MT-8 or 9. With its perfect balance of nostalgia, design, star power, and collectability—both then and now—the 1987 Fleer baseball set endures as one of the true classics and highlights of the vintage era.

VALUE OF 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set has become one of the most valuable issues from the 1980s.Released in 1987 by the Topps Company, the set features cards of players from that 1987 Major League Baseball season. Like most sets from that era, the 1987 Topps baseball cards utilized the standard cardboard construction and featured individual player photos on the front with stats and career highlights on the back. While not considered the most exciting design compared to embellished modern issues, the 1987 Topps set provides a nostalgic glimpse of baseball in the late 80s.

Several key factors have contributed to the rising values of cards from the 1987 Topps set in recent years. One of the biggest drivers is nostalgia, as many who collected these as kids in the late 80s are now adults with disposable income looking to relive their childhood hobby. Another important aspect is the rookie cards featured in the set. Future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine had their rookie cards in the 1987 Topps issue, making those cards highly sought after by collectors.

Beyond rookies, the 1987 Topps set also includes stars and franchises that remain popular to this day. Cards of Kirby Puckett, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Ken Griffey Jr. from their mid-80s primes hold value. Teams like the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox also drive interest since those brands have immense followings. The 1986 World Series rematch of the Boston Red Sox vs New York Mets is also represented, capturing a memorable moment in baseball history. The melange of talent, teams, and nostalgia have made the 1987 Topps set a benchmark for 80s collectors.

Looking specifically at individual card values, here are some of the most notable examples from the 1987 Topps issue:

Barry Larkin Rookie Card (card #770): In top gem mint condition, Larkin’s rookie frequently sells for over $1000 due to his Hall of Fame induction in 2012 increasing interest. Still a hugely important card for Reds collectors.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (card #680): As one of the greatest pitchers ever, Maddux’s rookie is a must-have for serious collectors. Near mint to mint examples often trade hands for $400-$600.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (card #661): The ace lefty’s card is closely priced to Maddux’s since both had hall of fame careers. Near mint Glavines sell in the $300-$500 range.

Ken Griffey Jr. (card #403): Even in played condition, Jr’s rookie year card moves for $150-$250 due to his iconic status. High grades command much more.

Ozzie Smith (card #660): A superstar and 13x Gold Glove winner, The Wizard’s card holds value from $75-$150 depending on condition.

Don Mattingly (card #571): The 1985 MVP and Yankees captain maintains popularity. Well-kept Mattinglys trade from $50-100.

Dwight Gooden (card #393): Darryl Strawberry isn’t the only Mets star, and mint Goodens can reach $75-150.

Kirby Puckett (card #480): A beloved Twin and 6x All-Star, Puckett’s star power keeps near mint examples at $50-75.

Wade Boggs (card #496): The hitter’s hitter stays in demand from Red Sox collectors. Boggs grades from $35-60 typically.

While not reaching the record heights of the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, the 1987 Topps set shows no signs of slowing appreciation among collectors thirty years after its original printing. Fueled by star rookies and iconic veterans alike, this classic 80s issue remains one of the most sought after from the decade. With strong nostalgia and talented players represented, values for 1987 Topps cards are poised to stay hot for years to come.

ROOKIE CARDS IN 1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARD SET

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is widely considered one of the strongest rookie card classes of all time. With future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine making their Topps card debut, these rookie cards have become highly coveted by collectors.

A key rookie card in the 1987 set is Cincinnati Reds shortstop Barry Larkin’s card #341. Larkin would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Reds, winning an MVP award in 1995. As one of the premier shortstops of the 1990s, Larkin’s 1987 rookie card is among the most iconic and recognizable from that year’s set. In high grade, Larkin rookies routinely sell for hundreds of dollars due to his all-time great status.

Another cornerstone rookie card is Atlanta Braves pitcher Greg Maddux’s #390 card. Maddux established himself as one of the best pitchers ever, winning four consecutive Cy Young awards from 1992-1995 with the Braves. His pinpoint control and dominance on the mound make his 1987 rookie one of the most significant in baseball history. High-grade Maddux rookies can sell for well over $1000 given his elite pitching resume.

Tom Glavine, Maddux’s teammate on many great Braves teams, also has a highly sought-after rookie in the 1987 set. Glavine would go on to win two Cy Youngs of his own and was a member of the 1995 World Series champion Braves. As another future Hall of Famer, Glavine’s #154 card remains a key piece for collectors to obtain. Like Maddux and Larkin, mint Glavine rookies demand top dollar.

Other notable rookie cards from the 1987 Topps set include Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo #210, Angels manager Joe Maddon #521, and long-time MLB catcher Charles Johnson #450. While they didn’t achieve the same career heights as Larkin, Maddux, and Glavine, these players’ rookie cards remain popular with collectors given their MLB careers and current industry roles.

The 1987 Topps set also marked the rookie cards of outfielders Lenny Dykstra #144 and Darren Daulton #481 of the Philadelphia Phillies. Dykstra, known as “Nails”, went on to win the 1993 National League MVP and was a key part of the Phillies’ 1993 World Series championship. Daulton was the Phillies’ catcher for many years and also played for their 1980 and 1983 NL pennant winners. Both of these hometown player rookies carry significance.

Even beyond the elite rookie cards, the overall 1987 Topps set contained 792 total cards and featured future stars like Mark McGwire #207, Wally Joyner #386, David Cone #617, and more. It’s considered one of the most complete sets for capturing future Hall of Famers and impact players at the start of their MLB journeys. The vintage feel of the designs also adds to the appeal for collectors decades later.

In high grades, complete sets and individual rookie cards continue to climb in value due to strong collector demand. The 1987 Topps rookie class stands out for capturing so much excellence in one package. As many of the players go on to Cooperstown, their humble beginnings documented in that year’s Topps issue take on greater prestige. For collectors and historians alike, the 1987 Topps set remains a pinnacle of the hobby for presenting such acclaimed rookies all in one concentrated collection.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICING

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the 1980s. With 792 total cards in the base set, it was one of the largest releases from Topps during that era. The allure and demand for rookie cards and stars from that time period have kept the 1987 Topps set highly relevant in the hobby ever since. Let’s take a closer look at valuations and pricing trends for some of the top rookie cards and notable veterans from the 1987 checklist.

One of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards from any set is that of Ken Griffey Jr. from the 1987 Topps issue. Widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and athleticism in center field made him a fan favorite throughout his career. His rookie card, found in pack #338 of the base set, has only grown in popularity since his retirement. In near-mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell now for $500-800. For a true mint PSA 10 gem, expect to pay $1,500-2,500 depending on the market. The Griffey rookie is truly a benchmark in the hobby and exemplifies how star power and on-field success can drive a card’s longterm value.

While not at the level of Griffey, several other notable rookies from the ’87 Topps set still retain excellent price tags in top condition decades later. Reds 3B Chris Sabo’s rookie, pack #1, hovers around the $150 mark for a PSA 9. The Athletics’ Mark McGwire rookie, found in pack #431, has been elevated since the home run chase days and sells for $250-400. Twins 2B Frank Viola’s rookie in pack #650 commands $100-150. From the back end of the set, Astros P Steve Avery’s star-crossed career prevents his pack #792 RC from exceeding $50 even in mint grade. Still, these represent some of the more affordable star rookie options for collectors trying to check entries off their want lists.

Moving beyond the rookies, the 1987 Topps set saw tremendous multi-sport crossover appeal due to the presence of baseball icons who were also making names for themselves in other sports at the time. Michael Jordan’s memorable baseball card cameo as a White Sox prospect, pack #156, continues climbing beyond the $1,000 mark for a PSA 10. Bo Jackson’s dual-threat Athletics card from pack #673 brings $400-500. Even lesser lights like Deion Sanders in a Yankees uniform on pack #765 pull $100-150 with their contemporary football fame added in. Of course, established legends like Nolan Ryan on pack #138 and Ozzie Smith on pack #560 hold steady values of $50-75 across all grades due to sustained collector interest.

The sheer scope and star power of the 1987 Topps checklist have made it enduring among vintage collectors. With such an extensive selection of rookie cards, electrifying multi-sport heroes, and beloved veterans, it represents one of the most diverse and investable baseball card sets ever produced. Even with 792 total issues to chase, key individual values remain strong due to the special players and moments they commemorate. Whether seeking affordable vintage cards or coveted high-grade gems, 1987 Topps offers viable options at every budget level. Its place as a touchstone release from the industry’s boom period is still felt strongly today in the robust pricing and collecting passion that defines the modern marketplace.

1987 SPORTFLICS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1987 sportflics baseball card set is one of the key mid-1980s issues that vintage baseball card collectors love to hunt for. Sportflics was a short-lived baseball card brand distributed by Imperial, but its 1987 offering turned out to be one of the more iconic releases of the decade. While it may not reach the heights of Topps or Donruss in terms of popularity or sales numbers, the 1987 sportflics set remains a staple in collections and has cards that still hold value today thanks to star players, tough pulls, and overall nostalgia from the era. Let’s take a deeper look at why this set remains desired and what certain key cards are worth.

The 1987 sportflics set contains a total of 198 cards issued in wax packs. Like many 1980s releases, the designs featured colorful cartoon-style illustrations on a white background. Unlike the more basic offerings from Donruss that year, sportflics cards featured more unique player poses and action shots that made each one stand out. The vibrant colors and big headshots of stars made collecting sportflics almost as fun as the flagship Topps set in 1987. Some keydesign elements that added to the appeal included foil stripes accented along the borders and fun retro lettering for the player’s name and team.

In terms of star power, the 1987 sportflics set boastssome true all-time greats at the height of their careers like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden, Ozzie Smith, Andre Dawson, and Rickey Henderson. With big names comes big appeal for collectors decades later. Sportflics cards of these Cooperstown talents from their prime seasons remain very collectible and hold solid value. Perhaps the true heavy hitter of the lot is a rookie card of Toronto Blue Jays sensation Roberto Alomar. His debut card from sportflics is one of the tougher late 1980s rookies to track down in high grade.

Outside legendary players, the 1987 sportflics set is known for difficulty in pulling certain key cards due to low print runs. Some keys to the set include the #1 Nolan Ryan card, which is scarce in high grade. Stars on poorer teams like the Kansas City Royals have cards that are rarer in mint condition since those slots in wax packs may have gone unchecked. This scarcity adds premiums for top-rated copies. Another unique aspect of sportflics was short print variations, like Len Dykstra’s card featuring an error in the team name font size. Error and variation cards hold vast popularity.

When it comes to current pricing and movement in the hobby, the 1987 sportflics set remains a steady yet rising vintage issue. Near-mint common players can be found for around $5-10, while solid all-star cards may fetch $15-30. But pristine copies of the elite names mentioned push $100-300 depending on the player pedigree. The true big ticket items are grade 9/10 rookie cards of Ozzie Smith, Mike Mussina, and Alomar, which can surpass $1,000 each. One PSA 10 Alomar recently sold on eBay for over $4,500. Higher end vintage sportflics continue appreciating as they are collected alongside the most iconic 1980s cardboard.

The 1987 sportflics baseball cards hold lasting value and appeal for savvy collectors due to the perfect storm of nostalgia, star power, design, and scarcity factors. While it may not be as storied as the flagship Topps or Donruss brands of the era, this short printing Imperial release ended up being one of the best products of 1987. Key cards show no signs of slowing down and may continue their bullish uptrend over the next decade as fewer remain in pristine condition and nostalgia remains high. The sportflics brand may have faded, but its 1987 offering is a vintage set sure to stay hot in the hobby.

PRICING FOR BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 1987

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. While it may lack the star power of some other years, the ’87 Topps set endures as a fan favorite due to its sharp design elements and memorable rookie cards. With over 600 total cards to collect, values can vary widely depending on factors like player, condition, and parallels. Let’s take an in-depth look at pricing trends for some of the top 1987 Topps cards.

To start, the set is centered around a trio of future Hall of Famers in their rookie seasons: Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. In gem mint (GM) 10 condition, Larkin PSA/DNA sells for around $150-200, boosted by his status as the set’s lone shortstop rookie card. Maddux and Glavine each pull $100-150 in the same grade due to their decades of success and recent inductions. Condition is critical, as even a point lower to a PSA 9 drops Maddux to the $50-75 range. All three hold value relatively well across the spectrum.

Another highly sought card is Mark McGwire’s rookie, currently $75-125 in PSA 10 condition. ‘Big Mac’ was already displaying his prodigious power with 24 homers in his age 22 season, foreshadowing his records to come. Ken Griffey Jr.’s pre-rookie is also found here, selling for $50-100 in top shape due to his future stardom. Bo Jackson’s baseball/football dual sport RC goes for a similar $50-100 range as well, with his career cut short adding appeal.

Beyond rookies, superstars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens typically sell in the $25-50 range if graded mint. Top condition Frank Thomas and Terry Pendleton rookie cards can reach the $40-75 territory. Notables like Darryl Strawberry, Dwight Gooden, and Andy Van Slyke hold solid $15-30 value levels. Even mid-range talents like Mitch Webster and Mark Williamson have found $10-15 price points.

In terms of parallels, the 1986/87 Donruss set mirror images are easily identifiable and sell briskly. The photo negative versions also spark interest. Going deeper, Glossy/Foilstamp parallels, Box Topper rebates, and SP variations also exist in limited numbers. These parallel cards usually sell for 2-5x the value of the base version in similar condition grades.

Condition, as always, is king. A pristine PSA 10 will usually outsell a PSA 9 on eBay by 30-50%, sometimes even double in price. On the flip side, simply crossing from a solid PSA 7 or 8 all the way down to a lowly PSA 4-5 can destroy 90% or more of a card’s worth. Centering, edges and corners take the biggest hits in grading. Proper mounting and safe storage is key to preserving these vintage cardboard treasures.

The 1987 Topps baseball set remains an affordable yet rewarding collecting experience. With iconic rookies and stars across many teams, options abound for budget-minded hobbyists looking to build complete sets or target favorite players. Condition-sensitive grading magnifies values at the top-end, but mid-tier gems are still plentiful for wallet-friendly prices. For those seeking investment potential or nostalgia thrills, the ’87 Topps issue continues to satisfy on multiple levels over 30 years after its original release. Condition, parallels, inserts and luck of the draw will inevitably shape the destiny of individual cards, but the full set itself has earned a rightful place among the pantheon of iconic sports card sets.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS UNCUT SHEETS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated issues of the late 1980s. Following decades of dominance, Topps faced new competition from rival producer Fleer. The 1987 set would be a pivotal release in what became known as the “Baseball Card War.”

Topps went all out to make the 1987 set stand out, giving cards thicker cardboard stock and embellishing them with colorful photo borders and player stats. The designs had a whimsical, almost comic book-like feel. Behind the scenes, Topps perfected new printing techniques to keep costs down and quality high on the mass quantities needed to meet demand.

Like all modern Topps issues, the 1987s were initially produced as uncut sheets still attached to one another after printing. These uncut or “hobby” sheets became highly collectible in their own right among advanced collectors. While retailers would cut the sheets into packs and boxes for the mass market, uncut sheets retained the comic-like aesthetic of the entire set intact on a single large “poster.”

Topps printed the 1987s on sheets of 52 cards each, with 6 rows of 8 or 7 rows of 7 cards depending on the sheet. The front of each card was roughly 2.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches high within the paper border. So an entire sheet measured around 21×28 inches, giving collectors an amazing full-view presentation of the entire set.

Within the hobby, various sheet variants emerged. The most common contained the standard 52-card assortment drawn randomly from the entire 660-card set. However, Topps also experimented with sheet layouts organized by player position or team. In very limited quantities, specialty promotional or “proof” sheets even contained artist or manager headshots not found in packs.

Print runs on hobby sheets were much lower compared to the hundreds of millions of packs produced. Only several thousand intact sheets likely survived the decades intact. As sets from the 1970s and early 80s grew in value, so too did the hobby sheets that preserved those issues in their original form. 1987 sheets took on increasing significance as the high water mark of the card industry’s boom years.

Condition became paramount for collectors. Even minor damage like creases or edge wear greatly diminished a sheet’s worth. Truly pristine examples fetched enormous sums. In the current market, even very well-centered, bright 1987 sheets often sell for thousands of dollars or more depending on their specific player or statistical content. Extremely rare sheet variants can far surpass $10,000 when offered to avid set builders.

The 1987 Topps set is regarded as one of the most aesthetically appealing issues ever produced. Its uncut hobby sheets amplified that visual appeal to an almost monumental scale. For serious vintage collectors, acquiring a high-grade example provides not only the thrill of obtaining a showcase piece, but a direct window into the era that defined the sports card phenomenon. Few other collectibles so tangibly fuse nostalgia, rarity, condition sensitivity and sheer enormity into a single coveted artifact. For these reasons, 1987 Topps uncut sheets remain iconic trophies among set builders decades after the cards first hit the marketplace.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1987

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1987 was a transitional year for baseball cards. The junk wax era was in full swing, as overproduction led to plummeting values of modern cards through the late 1980s and early 1990s. The 1987 set stands out as one of the more desirable issues from that time due to strong rookie class and inclusion of some star players.

Top Rookies

Perhaps the strongest rookie class of the junk wax era came in 1987. Ken Griffey Jr’s iconic upper deck rookie card led the way. In pristine mint condition, it can fetch over $1000. Even well-worn copies trade in the $50-100 range. Griffey was one of the most exciting young players to enter the league in decades.

Another top rookie was Mark McGwire. His rookie card is highly sought after by both collectors and investors. Near mint copies can sell for $200-300, while well-centered gems reach $500-1000 depending on condition. McGwire went on to smash the single season home run record.

Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and Ben McDonald also debuted in 1987. While not the superstars Griffey and McGwire became, they all had solid big league careers. Their rookies can be acquired relatively affordably, with near mint copies around $15-30 each normally.

Star Veterans and Short Prints

The 1987 set also featured active superstars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens. Boggs and Smith rookies from over a decade prior were quite expensive, so their flagship cards in the 1987 set were obtainable alternatives for collectors. Clemens was also a prized pitcher at the time.

Two short printed cards, Mark McGwire and Wally Joyner, also gained popularity. The print runs on these were much lower than standard cards in the set. Near mint copies can fetch $50-100 due to their scarcity over the years.

Overall Condition

Condition is extremely important when evaluating the value of any vintage baseball card. For 1987s, near mint to mint copies will command the most money from collectors. Heavily played examples might sell for 50-90% less. It’s also important to avoid cards with creases, corners rounding, edges fraying or other serious flaws. A flawless 1987 card can be a worthwhile long term investment based on the star power and condition.

Pricing Factors

In addition to condition and player, there are several other factors that influence 1987 baseball card values:

Autographs exponentially increase value. Even a basic autographed 1987 card could sell for $100s.

Variations and parallel issues have specialty appeal. Gems like the McGwire/Joyner short prints are highly sought.

Set completion drives demand. Collectors want pristine, centered examples of harder to find base cards to finish their 1987 collection.

Grading matters. Professionally graded mint condition examples in 3rd party slabs like PSA/BGS bring significant premiums vs raw cards.

Supply and demand economics impact pricing. Popular stars hold value best long term.

The 1987 Topps set introduced several future Hall of Famers. With the right combination of star power, condition and other scarce attributes, the key rookie cards and select veterans have potential to retain long term collectibility. Condition is paramount, and the strongest examples can still be found for affordable prices relative to vintage cards decades older.

1987 TOPPS COMPLETE SET BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps complete baseball card set is considered one of the most beloved and iconic release from the card company’s long history. Following decades of dominance in the baseball card industry, Topps reached the peak of their popularity with their 1987 offering which featured rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tim Raines along with 712 total cards covering all 26 MLB teams.

Inside plastic packaging wrapped in colorful artwork highlighting star players like Kirby Puckett and Ozzie Smith, the 1987 Topps set transitioned card design from the 1980s by minimizing color saturation and increasing white space. Front images featured headshots of players along with team logos and fun fact callouts. Backs listed career stats and biographical info in a clean layout devoid of clutter. Topps produced the cards on a thicker, higher quality stock paper compared to previous years which aided in preservation.

Rookie cards were the most coveted with Maddux, Larkin, and Raines all debuting in this iconic set. Maddux’s card in particular is one of the scarcest and most valuable from the series, frequently grading and selling for over $10,000 in pristine condition due to his Hall of Fame career. Other notable rookie debuts included Juan Gonzalez, Tom Glavine, and Mike Mussina who all went on to have all-star caliber MLB tenures. Veteran stars like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Tony Gwynn anchored the checklist as well which maintained collector interest decades later.

Beyond the impressive rookie class, subsets added to the collectability. Included were 32 Turn Back The Clock black and white reprints of cards from the 1930s and ’40s, leaderboards highlighting single-season records, and manager/coach cards at the end. Error variations like the “reversed name” Maddux also captured the attention of set builders seeking completeness. Completing the flagship 1987 Topps set in high grade became an iconic goal of dedicated cardboard collectors.

While production numbers for that year’s Topps release are unknown, distribution was widespread in stores, vending machines, and via the company’s mail-away offer for several years after. As a result, most 1987 Topps cards can still be acquired with diligent hunting and patience even decades later. The surge of 1990s collectors as the baseball card market boomed meant that premium rookie cards and star players steadily appreciated in secondary market pricing over time.

In the modern card collecting era, the 1987 Topps set remains iconic for encapsulating 1980s baseball and pop culture. Its simplistic yet effective designs established the visual blueprint that Topps would refine for future standard releases. Featuring all-time great players and some of the most significant rookie cards ever made, 1987 Topps will likely stand the test of time as one of the most treasured complete sets among old school collectors and investors alike for decades to come based on its historicchecklist and the quality/popularity peak it represents for the long-running Topps brand in the print card medium.

Those seeking a comprehensive yet detailed dive into the acclaimed 1987 Topps baseball card set would be remiss not to highlight the iconic rookie class headlined by Maddux, Larkin and Raines alongside the crossover star power of veterans, innovative subsets, simple yet effective designs, widespread distribution and enduring retro appeal that cemented its place as a true benchmark release and pinnacle achievement in the hobby’s history.