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1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1987 Fleer Baseball Cards Price Guide and Values

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was issued midway through the 1987 Major League Baseball season and featured cards of players from that current season. Fleer was one of the “Big 3” card manufacturers of the time along with Topps and Donruss. The 1987 Fleer set included 402 total cards and had a very distinct style compared to other sets of the era. Let’s take a closer look at the 1987 Fleer cards, notable rookies and star players featured, and what various cards from the set tend to sell for today based on condition and player status.

Design and Production
The 1987 Fleer cards had a unique gray border framing colorful action photos of players on a white background. Fleer made the transition in 1987 to using a new, glossier card stock material compared to previous paper-stock sets. Card numbers ran from 1 to 402 with no parallels, insert cards, or oddball short prints. The front of each card displayed the team name and logo above the player photo along with their name and position below. On the back was the standard Fleer player stats layout and some career highlights.

Rookies and Key Players
Some of the top rookies and star players featured in the 1987 Fleer set that have highly sought after rookie or star cards include Ken Griffey Jr, Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Frank Thomas, Juan Gonzalez, and Roberto Alomar. Griffey Jr’s rookie card has long been one of the most iconic and valuable modern rookie cards in the hobby. Other notable rookies included Craig Biggio, Tom Gordon, and Moises Alou. Veteran stars like Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, George Brett, and Ozzie Smith also had popular cards.

Card Values and Grading
The values for 1987 Fleer cards can vary greatly depending on the player, condition, and level of demand. Here is a general overview on values for the most popular 1987 Fleer cards based on their PSA/BGS graded gem mint 10 condition:

Ken Griffey Jr rookie: $3,000-$5,000
Mark McGwire rookie: $800-$1,200
Barry Bonds rookie: $500-$700
Greg Maddux rookie: $300-$400
Roberto Alomar rookie: $250-$350
Frank Thomas rookie: $200-$300
Juan Gonzalez rookie: $150-$250
Wade Boggs: $50-$75
Tony Gwynn: $50-$75
Ozzie Smith: $40-$60
George Brett: $30-$50
Common star/journeyman cards in PSA 10: $10-20

For raw, ungraded examples in near mint to mint condition, values would usually be 50% or less compared to graded gems. More common players or duplicates can be found for just a few dollars. Factors like specific player performance during seasons after 1987 can also influence long term demand and prices.

Summary
The 1987 Fleer baseball card set is considered a classic of the modern era and remains a popular choice for collectors to pursue. With a nice variety of future Hall of Famers and other notable players as rookies, there are numerous opportunities to acquire affordable vintage cards to build a collection around. For the marquee rookie cards or true gem mint examples, be prepared to invest more significant money. But overall the 1987 Fleer cards represent an iconic vintage basketball set that can be completed or focused on specific players without breaking the bank compared to some other highly inflated vintage sets from the late 1980s.

VALUABLE 1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball set was produced during a transitional time in the baseball card industry. While Donruss had produced sets since 1981, 1987 saw the rise of Upper Deck which would go on to dominate the hobby. As such, the 1987 Donruss set contains several valuable rookie cards and stars of the day that make it a set card collectors still pursue.

Perhaps the most notable and valuable card from the 1987 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the best player of his generation, Griffey’s rookie season was one of the most anticipated in baseball history coming into the 1987 season. His sweet lefty swing and all-world talents in center field quickly made him a fan favorite. This popularity translated to his rookie cards, with the 1987 Donruss Griffey being one of the most iconic and sought after in the hobby.

In high grade condition like a PSA 10, Griffey’s 1987 Donruss rookie card can fetch tens of thousands of dollars. But there’s high demand for it in any grade, with even well-worn copies trading hands for hundreds due to Griffey’s status among collectors and fans. The card captures “The Kid” in an action shot during his debut 1987 season with the Seattle Mariners uniform before they switched to their trident logo designs. It remains among the most valuable baseball cards ever produced.

Another star rookie card to come from the 1987 Donruss set is that of Mark McGwire. Like Griffey, McGwire was anticipated to be a future superstar and did not disappoint in his first season with the Athletics. Though overshadowed throughout his career by Griffey and later Barry Bonds, McGwire still went on to have one of the best power hitting careers ever. Collectors recognized his potential from the start and his Donruss rookie card followed Griffey’s in value through the late 80s and 90s boom.

Today graded examples can bring thousands as McGwire’s name remains well known for his offensive prowess even if tainted by steroid links later on. The card features “Big Mac” in an Athletics uniform during his hyped rookie campaign. It’s a classic piece of cardboard to have for any collection focusing on stars and highly valuable cards from the late 80s period.

Continuing with sluggers who debuted in 1987, the Donruss set also delivered the starting point for collectors with the Frank Thomas rookie card. “The Big Hurt” emerged from a decorated college career to immediately tear up major league pitching for the Chicago White Sox. He finished second in rookie of the year voting that season while showcasing his impressive home run power.

This power potential converted into future success which made Thomas a highly demanded player card early on. Though not at Griffey or McGwire levels, graded PSA 10 copies of his 1987 Donruss rookie have still sold in the four figure range showing strong collector interest. Plus there’s the added rarity factor since Donruss only produced one rookie card for Thomas compared to other sets with multiple variations. It’s among the key pieces for constructing a full White Sox or power hitting collection.

Not every big name rookie panned out after their ’87 Donruss debut, but the cards still hold value based on expectations. Steve Avery was hailed as one of baseball’s next aces coming out of Georgia, as evidenced by his action shot rookie in a Braves uniform. Though injuries derailed his career, graded versions still bring over $100 in auctions. Same goes for Bobby Witt’s first card as doubts about his power started to creep in. The aggressive follow through pose with the Rangers captures his top prospect status at the time.

The 1987 Donruss set greatly benefited from capturing stars very early in the primes as well. One example is the Kirby Puckett card that shows him launching a pitch into right field in Twins light blue. Puckett emerged as one of the decade’s top all-around players and this card was a hot commodity while he was in his hitting and baseball prowess heyday. PSA 10 editions remain around the $1,000 range given Puckett’s enduring popularity in Minnesota.

Another star who was just getting warmed up was the Yankees’ Don Mattingly. After coming off the 1985 AL MVP season, Mattingly’s 1987 Donruss card depicts him fielding at first base which underscored his excellent glovework. Though injuries hamstrung his career peak, Mattingly is still revered by Yankees fans for his hustling style which this card exuberates. High grade versions can fetch upwards of $500 with motivated collectors.

The coveted 1987 set also captured young talent on the rise like Will Clark of the Giants and Wally Joyner for the Angels. Clark’s dynamic pose is one of the most visually appealing from the checklist as he swings for the fences. It captured the anticipation of him building off a strong ’86 year. Joyner’s Angels rookie provides fans of that era squad a key piece of memorabilia from their World Series runs. Together they highlight stars that were leading their franchises.

While stars and rookies were a major part of the set’s appeal, the 1987 Donruss checklist still featured numerous other talents who had achieved success already as well. Hall of Famer Robin Yount’s card with the Brewers established him as one of the game’s best all-around players in the late 80s. Ozzie Smith’s Cardinals issue with him backhanding a grounder emphasized why he was the best fielding shortstop in MLB.

Even role players received due representation to satisfy team collectors. Pinch hitter extraordinaire Mario Diaz landed his lone rookie card and action shot with the Blue Jays. Chris Brown’s unconventional batting pose highlighted his skills for the Red Sox. They add colorful variety to any collection focused on teams from that era.

In summation, the 1987 Donruss baseball set carries immense nostalgia and value for hobbyists and investors alike because it captured so many future Hall of Famers and stars during formative seasons. From Griffey and McGwire’s iconic rookies to stars in their primes like Puckett, Yount and Smith, it has long been a sought after release. High grade examples of stars like Thomas and Mattingly as well as players on the rise boost values further. When combined with eye catching designs that still hold up over 30 years later, it’s clear why 1987 Donruss remains a set that created evergreen collectibles.

HIGHEST TOPPS 1987 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set introduced some of the most valuable rookie cards in the hobby’s history. Within the 792 card issued set, which featured players and managers from both the American and National Leagues, several rookie cards emerged that now command enormous prices due to the Hall of Fame careers of the players featured.

One of the most valuable from the ’87 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Considered one of the greatest five-tool players of all-time, Griffey Jr. was one of the most anticipated rookies to debut that season with the Seattle Mariners. Even as a rookie, he showed tantalizing promise by hitting .337 with 13 home runs and 42 RBIs in just 80 games. Topps certainly recognized Griffey Jr.’s tremendous upside and featured him prominently in the 1987 set, with his card occupying the coveted front-row spot of card number 1. Given his instant success as well as the budding superstardom and stature fans knew he would achieve, Griffey Jr.’s ’87 rookie has maintained its value as one of the finest rookie cards ever issued. In pristine mint condition, the Griffey Jr. ’87 Topps rookie can fetch over $10,000 today, with some sealed mint specimens selling for upwards of $25,000 or more at auction.

Another gem from the 1987 Topps set is the Barry Bonds rookie card. Like Griffey Jr., Bonds was one of the most heralded rookie prospects to arrive that season, and after a successful rookie campaign with the Pittsburgh Pirates where he hit .223 with 4 home runs and 47 RBIs, expectations were high for Bonds to develop into a true superstar. Those expectations would prove accurate, as Bonds went on to smash the single season and career home run records and establish himself as perhaps the greatest power hitter of all-time. Due to Bonds’ all-time great status and the fact that his stellar rookie season was just the beginning of a Hall of Fame career that still captivates fans decades later, his ’87 Topps rookie is one of the set’s most recognizable and valuable cards. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint quality grade, which is exceedingly rare for any vintage card, a PSA 10 Bonds rookie recently sold for a staggering $93,000 at auction, though most raw or lower graded examples still command prices of $3,000-$10,000 based on condition.

Another rookie card from 1987 that demands big bucks is that of Tom Glavine. As a member of the Atlanta Braves, Glavine emerged as one of the most dominant pitchers of the 1990s, going 305-203 over his 22 big league seasons and winning two Cy Young Awards. From 1991-1998, Glavine led baseball in victories, helping the Braves capture the 1995 World Series title. There was no inkling yet of the accolades and success to come when Glavine arrived as a rookie in ’87, but collectors foresaw his promise and potential based on his minuscule 2.59 ERA in 18 starts that year. As such, his Topps rookie is one of the most popular cards for Braves fans and vintage collectors alike. In PSA 10 condition, Glavine’s ’87 Topps rookie has sold for over $4,000, with most graded examples selling in the $600-1000 range depending on condition.

Although not at the same price level as the Griffey Jr., Bonds and Glavine rookies, other valuable ’87 Topps cards include those of Will Clark and Mark McGwire. Clark was well on his way to a fine career after batting .286 with 16 home runs and 71 RBI in an All-Star rookie season with the San Francisco Giants. His combination of power and consistency made Clark a favorite of many casual and serious collectors alike during his playing days. As such, his Topps rookie remains very popular and sought after by Giants and Clark collectors. In a PSA 10 it can be worth over $1,000, with most graded cards bringing $150-400 depending in condition.

Mark McGwire had an extremely impressive rookie season in 1987 with the Oakland A’s, leading the American League with 49 home runs while also driving in 118 runs and batting .289. While collecting took off in the late 80s/90s boom, fans and investors recognized McGwire’s tremendous power potential from a very early stage. Investors snapped up his rookie card looking to profit down the line if McGwire fulfilled his destiny, which of course he did after breaking the single season home run record of 61 three different times. As one of the true stars of the steroid era, McGwire’s ’87 Topps rookie remains a controversial collectible. Despite controversy, gem mint PSA 10 examples still sell for $3,000+, with most graded rookie cards achieving prices of $150-900 depending on condition.

Looking beyond just the star rookies, other notable and valuable cards from the 1987 Topps baseball set include those of Hall of Famers Tony Gwynn, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith, all of whom were established stars at that point with Hall of Fame careers still ahead of them. A PSA 10 Gwynn would net over $2,000, while a PSA 10 Henderson could be worth $1,500 or more. Even veterans like Wade Boggs, Tim Raines and Lee Smith command solid prices in high grades. Any major star player’s card from this set has a chance to be quite valuable in pristine mint condition due to the immense playing careers many featured players achieved in the 1980s and 1990s.

The 1987 Topps set holds a special allure for collectors due to its historical rookies and talent level and significance. For Griffey Jr., Bonds and McGwire collectors, finding high graded examples of their rookie cards in particular has become quite the investment priority. As the careers and legacies of stars from that era are cemented further in baseball history books, it’s almost certain the value of their cards from the iconic ’87 Topps set will continue to appreciate significantly over time for patient holders. The abundance of future Hall of Famers and all-time greats immortalized in their first Topps cards make 1987 one of the single most cherished and valuable vintage sets in the history of the hobby.

TOPPS 1987 COMPLETE SET BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps complete baseball card set featured 792 total cards including 520 base cards and 272 subset, special, manager, and checklist cards. As Topps’ flagship release for the 1987 season, it was the 54th consecutive year Topps released a complete baseball card set covering Major League Baseball teams and players.

Some key facts about the 1987 Topps baseball card set:

Rosters featured every MLB player along with team checklists, rookie All-Star cards, and league leader cards

Notable rookies included Barry Larkin, Mark Grace, Gregg Olson, and Dennis Eckersley

Hank Aaron’s cameo card was included to commemorate his 755th home run hit in 1974

Unique die-cut design featured different shaped panels for each card

Traded players were each given a new card reflecting their new team

Checklist cards helped collectors keep track of which cards were remaining to complete the full 792 card release

Most common cards could be found in wax packs sold for $0.50-0.75 each at retail stores

More scarce short printed cards and variations became highly coveted by collectors

Looking closer at the design elements, Topps opted for a fresh new look after sticking with mostly traditional borders and templates for over 50 years. Designer Ray Sadecki created the innovative die-cut card design where each card had a unique shape cut into the borders. While met with some initial criticism, this made each Topps card truly one-of-a-kind.

For the base card fronts, photos dominated the space with limited room for team logos and player information. Blue and gray were used sparingly to accent the photos and give a sense of uniformity across all 520 base cards. Card backs featured standard statistics along with a brief paragraph of biographical information for each player. Topps continued its tradition of serial numbering each card between 001 to 792.

Among the notable rookie cards were Barry Larkin of the Cincinnati Reds at #118 and Mark Grace of the Chicago Cubs at #283. Both went on to have impressive MLB careers and their rookies remain popular with collectors. Gregg Olson’s Orioles rookie at #379 was another highlight as he burst onto the scene with 24 saves.

Traded players like Eric Davis (#151), Jack Morris (#183), and Don Mattingly (#408) got new cards reflecting their updated uniforms midway through the 1987 season. Others like Reggie Jackson (#415), Mike Schmidt (#581), and Pete Rose (#590) appeared in their final MLB seasons before retirement.

The league leader subset cards at #593-600 featured the top players in batting average, home runs, RBI’s, wins, saves, and strikeouts. Nolan Ryan graced the strikeout leaders card after notching his 5,000th career K. Special veterans cards paid tribute to players like Carl Yastrzemski (#601), Tommy John (#630), and Gaylord Perry (#685).

The checklist cards at #791-792 helped eager collectors track progress, and short prints like #469 Dave Parker created mystery. Variations such as an error-free #778 Darryl Strawberry added intrigue. While not especially valuable when new, today high-grade examples can sell for significant sums. Of the original 792 cards produced, many have been lost to the wears of time and play.

In summary, Topps’ 1987 flagship baseball set showed innovation with the die-cut design while preserving the tried-and-true elements collectors had come to expect for decades. Rookies, league leaders, veterans, and a memorable Hank Aaron tribute made for a well-rounded complete set capturing the 1987 MLB season. While initially a product meant simply for play, today the 1987 Topps baseball cards remain beloved pieces of pop culture history for collectors.

1987 SAN DIEGO PADRES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set featured the San Diego Padres and provided a snapshot of the team from that year. It was the 75th annual set produced by Topps and included cards for all 26 Major League Baseball teams from that season. For Padres fans and collectors, it serves as a view back into one of the franchise’s more successful periods in the late 1980s.

The 1987 Padres finished the season with an 87-75 record, good enough for second place in the National League West division behind the 87-74 Giants. It was skipper Larry Bowa’s first year at the helm for San Diego. Notable players included Cy Young Award winner Andy Hawkins, slugging first baseman Jack Clark, catcher Terry Kennedy, and All-Star shortstop Garry Templeton.

Topps issued cards numbered 530-555 for the Padres players and managers. Some of the more notable inclusions were:

#530 Andy Hawkins: Hawkins is shown in a Padres uniform on the front, with stats and details on the back. His breakout season earned him Cy Young votes as he went 19-8 with a 2.41 ERA in 210 innings.

#531 Jack Clark: One of the team’s big offseason acquisitions, Clark batted .250 with 19 home runs in his first year in San Diego. He’s pictured batting right-handed on his card.

#532 Craig Lefferts: The veteran lefty reliever snapped and pointed on his card after posting a solid 3.79 ERA in 55 appearances out of the bullpen.

#533 Terry Kennedy: The defensive-minded catcher is shown tagging a runner at the plate. He hit .242 and threw out 33% of would-be base stealers.

#534 Garry Templeton: The smooth-fielding shortstop demonstrated outstanding range and a strong arm. He contributed a .278 average with 8 homers and 56 RBI.

#535 Rich Gossage: “Goose” brought his legendary fastball and experience to the Padres bullpen midway through 1987. The future Hall of Famer notched 10 saves with a 2.03 ERA after joining from NY Yankees.

#536 Benito Santiago: Still a young catcher at age 21, Santiago impressed with his cannon arm behind the dish. He hit .236 in just 47 games in his rookie season.

#537 Al Newman: One of the team’s utility players, Newman grinded out at-bats at 1B, 3B, LF and even pitched an inning when needed. A true “glue guy” off the bench.

#538 Kevin McReynolds: In his third season, McReynolds erupted with career-highs of 31 HRs and 101 RBI while batting .278 as the Padres’ regular left fielder.

#539 Rick Schu: The submarine-style righty was effective for San Diego in a setup role before closers. He notched 7 saves with a 3.62 ERA in 61 games pitched.

#540 Tim Flannery: A popular backup infielder and pinch hitter, Flannery slapped the ball from both sides of the plate despite petite stature. He gave maximum effort in a minimal role.

#541 Larry Bowa: In his first year managing in the big leagues, Bowa brought his fiery competitiveness and attention to detail to the Padres dugout. He aimed to lead a talented but inconsistent roster to greater success.

#542 Chris Brown: A promising young right-hander, Brown flashed an overpowering fastball while starting 21 games as a 22-year old. He went 8-7 with a 3.76 ERA in his sophomore campaign.

#543 Eric Show: A staple in the Padres rotation, the crafty left-hander continued mixing speeds effectively at age 36. He notched 13 wins against 10 losses and a team-best 3.21 ERA over 32 starts.

#544 John Shelby: An on-base machine, Shelby hit leadoff frequently and got on base at a .379 clip despite batting just .264 overall. His speed and baseball smarts were assets at the top of the order.

#545 Tony Gwynn: Already a three-time batting champ, “Mr. Padre” maintained his excellence with a .370 average in 1987. He continued to be the face of the franchise and one of the game’s very best hitters in his prime.

#546 Marvell Wynne: A five-tool talent still in development at age 23, Wynne flashed potential with 12 homers, 16 stolen bases and strong defense in center field. He aimed to build on his promising beginnings.

#547 Kevin Mitchell: A 22-year-old corner outfielder, Mitchell showcased big power with 18 HRs and an .838 OPS in his sophomore campaign. His skills still seemed on the rise early in his career.

#548 Goose Gossage: Features the menacing scowl and bushy mustache of the legendary Goose, in a San Diego uniform after being acquired via midseason trade from the Yankees.

#549 Mark Parent: A versatile left-handed arm out of the bullpen, Parent chipped in 51 relief appearances with a respectable 3.71 ERA as one of the Padres top setup men.

#550 Ed Whitson: An enigmatic starter still hoping to tap into the potential that once made him a top prospect. Whitson logged 121 innings with an underwhelming 4.81 ERA in his first season in San Diego.

#551 Gary Lucas: The Padres bullpen coach is pictured from the waist up in a jacket and team cap, calling out pitches from the dugout.

#552 Del Unser: A lightly-used utility player and pinch hitter, Unser appeared in just 27 games but wore several different uniform numbers throughout the season as a true “Organizational Player.”

#553 Larry Bowa: As player/manager, Bowa is featured in a full Padres uniform leaning against the dugout rail, cigarette in hand, exhibiting his fiery leadership style.

#554 Joe Orsulak: Acquired midseason in a trade, Orsulak was a left-handed bat off the bench and late-inning defensive replacement. He hit .286 in 113 at-bats after joining San Diego.

#555 Mark Davis: The sidearming righty closer led the NL with 43 saves in his first year in San Diego. His dominating performances out of the bullpen helped solidify victories on most nights.

In total, the 1987 Topps San Diego Padres set showcased a talented but evolving roster from Larry Bowa’s first year at the helm. Veterans like Gossage, Gwynn and Kennedy anchored the squad, while emerging young talents like Hawkins, Mitchell, McReynolds, Santiago and Wynne offered hope that better success might be ahead. For collectors and fans today, it serves as a colorful memory capsule from the 1987 season.

BEST 1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases of the late 1980s. While it didn’t have the star power of Topps or Donruss sets that year, Fleer cards from 1987 featured some extremely valuable rookie cards and memorable players from that era. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most notable cards from the 1987 Fleer baseball release.

One of the biggest rookie cards from 1987 Fleer was Mark McGwire’s debut. Still early in his career, McGwire had just finished his third MLB season with the Oakland A’s. No one could have predicted that he would go on to shatter the single-season home run record just over a decade later. Still, his rookie card showed promise and featured one of the game’s great sluggers in the early days. In near mint condition, McGwire’s 1987 Fleer rookie now sells for well over $1000. It’s one of the most valuable cards from the entire set.

Another hugely valuable rookie was Ken Griffey Jr’s first Fleer issue. The son of the former Reds outfielder, Griffey Jr was already generating hype in 1987 as one of baseball’s best young prospects. His smooth left-handed swing and athleticism were on full display in his rookie pose. Considered one of the best player cards from the set visually. Ungraded Griffey Jr rookies still sell for $400-500 even in well-worn condition. In a PSA 10 gem mint state, it can fetch over $10,000.

While not rookies, cards of some true baseball legends also stood out in 1987 Fleer. One of the most iconic was the Nolan Ryan card, showing the flamethrower winding up to deliver one of his 100+ mph fastballs. As one of the most intimidating pitchers ever, it captured Ryan in his element. His dominance was also reflected in the back of the card which was dedicated entirely to his records and achievements. Other legendary cards included Don Mattingly in his Yankees batting stance and Ozzie Smith backflipping across the field.

Rookies of several other future Hall of Famers also debuted in 1987 Fleer. Among them were Tom Glavine’s subtle windup captured perfectly and Greg Maddux staring in intense focus. Both would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and multiple Cy Young awards. Elsewhere, cards of future stars like Barry Bonds, Jeff Bagwell, and Frank Thomas gave early glimpses of the talent they possessed.

In terms of design, 1987 Fleer cards had a very distinct and appealing look. A thick yellow border surrounded each player photo with their name across the top in bold red letters. Team logos were prominently displayed on the left. Statistics and career highlights filled out the back of each card. The simplicity and high production quality gave the 1987 Fleer set a very clean, classic baseball card aesthetic.

While 1987 Fleer didn’t have quite the star power rookie class of Topps or Donruss that year, it still featured several future Hall of Famers and MVPs. The designs were sharp and memorable. For collectors, cards of McGwire, Griffey Jr, Ryan, and others have grown greatly in value. Over 30 years later, 1987 Fleer remains one of the most iconic releases that truly captured the players and era. For both vintage appeal and valuable rookies, it’s easy to see why the 1987 Fleer set endures among baseball card collectors.

1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL VALUABLE CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set brought some very memorable and valuable rookie cards to the hobby. While not the flashiest design ever, the 1987 Donruss set featured several future Hall of Famers and all-time great players that started their careers in 1987. Many of these rookie cards have stood the test of time and remained highly collectible and expensive to this day.

One of the most well-known and valuable rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set is that of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Joe Carter. Drafted in the 4th round of the 1981 MLB Draft out of high school in California, Carter spent several years in the minors developing before making his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1984 at age 22. After a few seasons with Cleveland, Carter was traded to the Blue Jays during the 1987 season. His rookie card in the 1987 Donruss set pictures him as a member of the Indians, but still remains one of his most iconic baseball cards due to his legendary career.

Carter went on to have a spectacular 20-year MLB career, spending 12 seasons with the Blue Jays along the way. He was a 3-time All-Star and won back-to-back World Series championships with Toronto in 1992 and 1993. His walk-off World Series home run in the bottom of the 9th inning of Game 6 in 1993 is considered one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. Due to his successful career and World Series heroics, Joe Carter’s 1987 Donruss rookie card has become enormously popular with collectors and is one of the most valuable cards from the entire set. Near mint to mint quality copies routinely sell for well over $1000 today.

Other extremely valuable and sought after rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss baseball set include Cardinals greats Ozzie Smith and Vince Coleman. Smith made his MLB debut in 1978 at age 22 with the Padres and was traded to the Cardinals prior to the 1982 season. He went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with St. Louis, winning 13 consecutive Gold Gloves at shortstop from 1980-1992 and being named to 15 All-Star teams. His slick fielding and acrobatic plays making him one of the most entertaining and decorated defenders in baseball history. Despite being in his 9th MLB season in 1987, Ozzie Smith’s rookie card in Donruss is still desirable because it features his first Cardinals card. Higher graded versions can sell for $500-1000.

Vince Coleman was an electric player that made his Cardinals debut in 1985 at age 21 after being drafted 3rd overall in 1981. He immediately made an impact, stealing 110 bases in his rookie season to set a new MLB record. Coleman went on to steal over 300 bases during the 1980s to cement his status as one of history’s greatest base stealers. While injuries slowed him down later in his career, his 1987 Donruss rookie card is valuable since it portrays the beginning of his fantastic stolen base prowess with St. Louis. PSA Gem Mint 10 copies can sell upwards of $1000 online due to the card’s significance in capturing one of baseball’s all-time speedsters.

Two future Hall of Fame starting pitchers also had valuable rookie cards included in the 1987 Donruss set. Greg Maddux began his legendary career with the Chicago Cubs in 1986 at age 20 after being drafted out of high school. During his first full season in 1987, Maddux started to make his case as one of the greatest pitchers ever with a very impressive 16-6 record and 2.91 ERA at age 21. His smooth, economical motion and mastery of location would serve him tremendously over a 23-year career that saw 355 wins, four Cy Young Awards, and election to Cooperstown in 2014. Maddux’s 1987 Donruss rookie card remains highly sought after by both Cubs and Braves fans, selling for $200-500 each.

Another rookie card pitching star in the 1987 Donruss set was Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Roger Clemens. After making his MLB debut with the Red Sox in 1984, Clemens broke out in 1986 and cemented himself as one of baseball’s most dominate hurlers starting in 1987 at age 25. That season, Clemens went 22-9 with a 2.97 ERA and leading the AL in wins, strikeouts, and ERA en route to his first of seven career Cy Young Awards. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013, Clemens is considered one of the greatest pitchers ever alongside Maddux. His rookie card from Donruss is one collectors love to own, selling in the $300-700 range depending on condition.

Perhaps the most sought after and valuable card from the entire 1987 Donruss baseball set is that of Chicago White Sox outfielder/designated hitter Frank Thomas. Drafted 7th overall by the Sox in 1989 out of Auburn University, “The Big Hurt” made his MLB debut in 1990 at age 22 and got his first baseball card in Donruss the following year. What makes Thomas’ rookie card so desirable is that it predates his incredible offensive prowess he displayed starting in 1991. Between 1991-2003, Thomas slugged 448 home runs and batted .304 while twice leading the league in HR’s and RBI’s. He was named MVP in 1993 and 1994, the only player ever to win back-to-back AL honors. Inducted the Hall of Fame in 2014, PSA 10 quality rookie cards fetch well over $2,000 to this day due to rarity and Thomas’ legendary hitting statistics.

The 1987 Donruss baseball set holds a special nostalgia for collectors of that generation. While the design may not rank among the most attractive ever, the standout rookie cards it included for soon-to-be all-time MLB greats like Frank Thomas, Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, Ozzie Smith, Vince Coleman and Joe Carter ensure it will always be iconic and valuable to the hobby. Seeing these players in their beginning rookie card forms at the start of their careers adds to the enjoyment and intrigue surrounding the collectability of the 1987 Donruss baseball set over 30 years after its original release. The rookie cards from this set truly captured lightning in a bottle by portraying future Hall of Famers and MVP winners before they reached the absolute peak of their enormous talents in Major League Baseball.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set holds significant nostalgia and value for collectors and fans of 80s baseball. With a diverse and talented roster of rookies and stars from that era, the 1987 Fleer set endures as one of the most iconic and desirable issues from the brand. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards and their estimated values in today’s market.

The 1987 Fleer set contains 374 total cards and was the only major brand to feature licenses from both MLB and the MLBPA at the time. This allowed Fleer to use player names and importantly, rookie seasons of breakout stars. One such star was Mark McGwire, who had his rookie card in the 1987 Fleer set. McGwire’s rookie is considered one of the key chase cards from the issue. In near-mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $250-500. Pristine, gem mint 10-graded copies have been known to exceed $1,000 at auction.

Another hugely valuable rookie is that of Barry Bonds. Bonds was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate by 1987. It served as his true rookie card issue. Bonds rookies in NM-MT condition reach $100-200. Higher graded 9s and 10s command $500-1,000+. The debuts of McGwire and Bonds alone make 1987 Fleer an extremely rich set for star-studded rookie cards.

But those weren’t the only rookies that year. Additional noteworthy rookies included Tom Glavine, David Justice, and Bip Roberts. Glavine rookie cards are valued around $25-50 in standard condition. Justice and Roberts rookies are worth $10-20. Still, all hold appeal as fleeting glimpses of future Hall of Famers in their earliest career stages.

Moving beyond the rookies, the 1987 Fleer set featured many established superstars of the day, including Roger Clemen, Nolan Ryan, and Don Mattingly. Clemens and Ryan, each amongst the top pitchers of their generation, had fairly common cards in the base set. Nevertheless, high-grade examples still sell for $10-20.

Mattingly, though, was one of the premier hitters in baseball in 1987. As a result, his card carries higher value. Near-mint Mattingly cards can achieve $30-50. Copies grading a 9 or 10 in terms of centering, edges and corners often reach triple digits. Condition is critical, as even slightly played copies dip down under $10.

Outside of the individual star cards, 1987 Fleer also holds value for team and league subset cards. This includes final National League Championship cards for the 1980s Mets and Cardinals teams. The Mets NL Pennant card typically sells for $15-30 based on condition. The Cardinals parallel often reaches slightly higher at $20-40.

An area that drives prices up generally for the 1987 Fleer set is the lack of plentiful high quality specimens still in existence today. Like many 1980s issues, the sheer volume produced far exceeded today’s collector population. As a result, pristine near-mint and gem mint copies can be tough to acquire. This scarcity plays a role in the valuations discussed.

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set remains a coveted part of the larger vintage card culture. With stars of the day like McGwire, Bonds, Clemens and more, it offers a view of the league at a really interesting transition point. While common cards can be had for under $10, key rookies and higher graded pieces persist as serious targets for enthusiastic collectors. From a nostalgia and historical value perspective, 1987 Fleer will surely stay relevant for years to come.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1987 DONRUSS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues in the modern era of collecting. With original designs and rookies of future Hall of Famers, the 1987 Donruss set captured the excitement of the sport during arguably its most popular period of the late 1980s. While common cards from the set can often be found for under $1 in worn condition, the true gems have escalated greatly in value since the set’s original release over 30 years ago. Here are some of the most coveted and expensive 1987 Donruss baseball cards to look out for:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Card #1)
Perhaps the most legendary rookie card of all time, Griffey’s iconic 1987 Donruss issue outshines all others from the set. Considered the best all-around player of his generation, Griffey was a surefire star from the moment he stepped onto the big league field. His infectious smile and effortless talents resonated with fans of all ages. With its clean and colorful design showcasing “The Kid,” this rookie is the crown jewel of any collection. In pristine mint condition, it can demand over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies frequently sell for thousands on the secondary market. The Griffey rookie is not only the top card from the ’87 Donruss set, but also widely recognized as the most valuable modern-era baseball card period.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (Card #335)
As one of three Hall of Fame pitchers from the Atlanta Braves dominant rotations of the 1990s, Glavine put together a stellar 22-year career. His rookie card stands out not just for Glavine’s accomplishments, but also its sheer scarcity. Even in worn condition it can sell for $100 due to low pop reports. Getting a copy in near mint or better is extremely difficult, with examples sometimes going for over $1,000. For Braves fans and true Glavine collectors, this rookie provides a rare and important piece of memorabilia from one of the game’s most consistent lefty aces.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card (Card #546)
Much like Glavine, Maddux turned in a highly decorated Hall of Fame career primarily with the Braves in the 1990s. Also like his rotation-mate, Maddux’s rookie card is exceedingly scarce in high grades. Even worn copies can sell for $50-100 based on popularity alone. Near mint examples command $500-1000, with pristine mint rookies bringing over $2000. During baseball card boom periods of the late 80s/early 90s, the Maddux rookie was notoriously difficult to pull from packs. Its rarity and significance make it a true treasure for any collection. For Chicago Cubs fans, it also represents the beginning of Maddux’s first successful stint before joining Atlanta.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (Card #574)
As one of the most prolific and controversial sluggers in baseball history, Barry Bonds’ rookie card remains a vital and storied piece of memorabilia. His rookie season with the Pittsburgh Pirates showed the raw talent and athleticism that would blossom Bonds into the all-time home run king. Even in worn condition, examples sell for $50-100 based on nostalgia and historical importance. Near mint copies escalate to $500-1000 range, with pristine gems reaching $2000-4000. The 1987 Donruss design portrays an innocent young Bonds before controversy, capturing arguably the most talented player of all time at the dawn of his career. This iconic rookie will always be a centerpiece in the hobby.

Bo Jackson Rookie Card (Card #85)
While Jackson’s brief MLB tenure didn’t result in Hall of Fame enshrinement like the others, his legendary athleticism and “Bo Knows” popularity make his rookie one of the most sought after in the set. The explosive talents he showed in both baseball and football created a cultural sensation. Even beaten up low-grade copies hold value at $20-50 based on nostalgia and fame alone. Near mint examples easily fetch $100-200, with pristine mint copies reaching $500-1000 levels. For many, the Bo Jackson rookie encapsulates the fun, excitement and raw potential of 1980s sports culture in a single piece of cardboard. Its blend of scarcity and pop culture legacy gives it top billing amongst celebrity rookies.

In addition to headlining rookies, other factors make high-grade 1987 Donruss cards very valuable to collectors. The overall design feels very 1980s but remains clean and allows the photography to shine. Well-centered imaging without toning or flaws increases scarcity significantly in top condition. The set also featured budding young talents like Mark McGwire, Jose Canseco, and Jerome Walton on the verge of breakthrough campaigns. And veteran superstars like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Nolan Ryan kept collectors interested in chasing star power.

While the true untouchable treasures are the above rookie cards in pristine gem mint condition, there are plenty of other worthwhile expensive cards in the 1987 Donruss set. Stars like Cal Ripken Jr., Roger Clemens, and Rickey Henderson have valuable cards both for their huge careers and tougher pulls in high state of preservation. Regional parallels like San Diego or California cards that feature hometown starsTony Gwynn or Mark McGwire command premiums. And oddball statistical or photo variation cards command big bucks for unique quirks within the set design.

In the over 30 years since its original release, the 1987 Donruss baseball set has cemented its status as a true monument in the hobby. Its perfect storm of all-time talent, memorable designs, and inherent scarcity has kept it culturally relevant while valuations have skyrocketed to new heights. For collectors, teams, and investors, hunting the big ticket cards featured within like the Griffey, Glavine, and Bonds rookies has become a long term quest. The 1987 Donruss set will undoubtedly stand the test of time as one of the most important financialassets and culturally signficant baseball card issues ever made.

BEST 1987 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Leaf baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the year. Following the immense popularity of Topps and Donruss in 1986, Leaf Baseball Cards sought to enter the lucrative baseball card market and make a big splash with their inaugural offering. While it didn’t receive quite the same fanfare as the giants in the industry, the 1987 Leaf set is still fondly remembered today and contains several highly coveted rookie and star player cards that have stood the test of time.

The base card design was quite unique for its time, featuring a vertical player photo on the left with stats and career highlights listed on the right. The photo extended slightly above the borderless white frame, giving the cards a distinctive modern aesthetic. At only 132 cards, the set size was modest but packed with big names from both leagues. Some key rookie cards and star cards from the 1987 Leaf set that have become highly valuable over the decades include:

Mark McGwire Rookie Card – One of the true Holy Grail cards of the 1980s, McGwire’s rookie card from the 1987 Leaf set is iconic. His mammoth home run prowess was just beginning to emerge but collectors recognized his star potential from the start. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples now sell for well over $10,000.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card – Like McGwire, Bonds’ rookie is one of the most iconic and valuable from the 1980s. His Hall of Fame career was presaged even in his early years showcased on this rookie issue. High-grade examples can fetch $5,000+ due to his legendary status.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card – Maddux went on to have one of the best pitching careers in MLB history and his rookie card remains a key piece for any collection. Even in PSA 8 Very Fine condition, examples can sell for over $1,000.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card – Glavine was a star from the start and his rookie card captured the beginning of his stellar career. Like Maddux, even well-worn copies hold value due to his Hall of Fame induction.

Kirby Puckett Rookie Card – The beloved Twins star had his breakout printed in the 1987 Leaf set. While not quite as valuable as the superstar rookies, a PSA 10 can sell for $500-600.

Ozzie Smith – Considered one of the best defensive shortstops ever, “The Wizard” was a fan favorite. His sharp vertical photo and stats are a classic from the set.

Wade Boggs – The hit king had one of the cleanest swings in baseball and his card remains a sharp, undervalued piece for collectors.

Roger Clemens – One of the most dominant pitchers of the late 80s/90s, his intimidating stare down glare was captured perfectly on his Leaf issue.

Dwight Gooden – “Doctor K” was coming off his Rookie of the Year 1985 season and had one of the most visually striking photos in the set.

Don Mattingly – The smooth swinging “Hit Man” was on the verge of back-to-back batting title wins and his card was a must-have for Yankee collectors.

In addition to star rookies and veterans, the 1987 Leaf baseball set also included a host of other young talent that were on the cusp of breaking out such as Will Clark, Mark Langston, and David Cone. The design aesthetic has aged very well and remains a classic vintage look that is recognizable to this day. While it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as flagship brands in the late 80s, the 1987 Leaf set endures as one of the most complete snapshots of that era in the game. Key rookies like McGwire and Bonds alone make it one of the most valuable vintage issues to collect. For both nostalgia and investment purposes, the 1987 Topps cards remain a highly sought after release by collectors old and new.