Tag Archives: 1991

1990 AND 1991 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The late 1980s and early 1990s saw many iconic players reach the peaks of their careers. Stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., and Roger Clemens were putting up huge numbers and grabbing national attention. As a result, the demand for their rookie cards and best seasons skyrocketed. The 1990 and 1991 baseball card sets in particular contained some of the most valuable modern issues. While there are no extreme rarities on the level of the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, several common cards from this era can still fetch hundreds or even thousands due to the legends featured. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the standout cards from 1990 and 1991 Topps that are worth keeping an eye out for today.

Ken Griffey Jr. 1990 Upper Deck RC #1: Widely considered the finest licensed rookie card ever made, Griffey’s debut remains one of the most coveted and valuable modern issues. Near mint examples often sell for over $10,000. Even well-worn copies still demand $1,000+. Griffey was already a sensation in his first full MLB season of 1990 and this iconic photograph beautifully captured his smile and potential. Upper Deck only produced cards for one year, making their Griffey RC far scarcer than the flagship Topps and Donruss issues as well.

Nolan Ryan 1991 Topps Traded #T1: In 1991, Ryan signed with the Texas Rangers as a free agent, instantly making this his coveted new team RC. As one of the sport’s all-time great pitchers, Ryan cards from the late stages of his career retain excellent value. Graded mint copies of this traded issue have sold for over $7,500. Even well-loved copies in worn condition still bring $200-500 due to Ryan’s significance. The fiery photo of him firing a pitch exemplifies why he’s referred to as “The Ryan Express.”

Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck 1993: While not quite as valuable as the mega-rare 1990 Upper Deck RC, Griffey’s 1993 UD rookie remains a highly treasured card for fans and collectors. Near mint copies easily settle in the $2,000 range and up despite the larger print run compared to 1990. This close-up portrait highlights Griffey’s batting form and showcases why he’s considered one of the best all-around players in baseball history. Demand stays remarkably strong decades after the fact.

Cal Ripken Jr. 1991 Topps Traded #T206: Ripken’s historic streak of 2,632 consecutive games played shattered records and cemented his status as an Iron Man. This traded issue from his MVP 1991 season is one of his most iconic baseball cards. Graded mint versions consistently auction for $1,500-$3,000 depending on competitiveness. Even played copies still sell for $100-300 due to Ripken’s immense popularity and achievement. The dramatic action photo encapsulates Ripken’s legendary determination and durability.

Roger Clemens 1991 Topps Traded #T87: As one of the most dominating pitchers ever, Clemens cards hold tremendous value. This key traded issue from his monster 1991 season with the Boston Red Sox regularly brings $1,000+ for high-grade specimens. Even well-loved copies tend to hit $150-300. Clemens won both the Cy Young and MVP awards that year after posting a 20-6 record and 2.62 ERA. This ferocious-looking card makes it easy to understand his nickname of “The Rocket.”

Barry Bonds 1990 Topps Traded #T206: Bonds’ early Pittsburgh Pirates cards remain some of his most iconic issues before controversy engulfed his later Giants tenure. This key traded card shows Bonds swinging for the fence, much like he would do throughout his legendary power-hitting career. Near mint copies often auction in the $500-1000 range. Even worn specimens still attract $50-150 due to Bonds’ immense talent and status as one of the rawest left-handed hitters of all-time.

Mark McGwire 1990 Topps Traded #T205: As one of the original power-hitting stars of the 1990s steroid era, McGwire cards retain steady interest from collectors. This traded rookie from his mammoth 49 home run, 315 total bases season as an Oakland Athletic is particularly desirable. High-grade copies consistently sell for $300-600. Even played versions pull $50-150 due to nostalgia for McGwire’s massive home runs and record chase with Sammy Sosa. He was already a feared slugger at this early stage of his career.

Randy Johnson 1990 Topps Traded #T206: “The Big Unit” is considered one of the most dominating pitchers in MLB history across a magnificent 22-year career. His earliest Seattle Mariners cards hold added appeal for fans. This traded issue fetches $300-500 in mint condition and $50-150 played. At 6’10”, Johnson possessed a terrifying delivery and the power to crack 100+ mph. His rookie years hinted at the excellence still to come leading to a 10-time All-Star and 5-time Cy Young winner.

Sandy Alomar 1990 Topps #765: Alomar enjoyed a stellar career at catcher while winning seven Gold Gloves. His rookie season with the San Diego Padres saw him hit .295 and earn All-Star honors. This pristine rookie card has sold for over $500. Even well-played copies command $50-100 due to Alomar’s prolonged excellence behind the plate. His powerful swing and ability to handle any pitching staff make this a favorite for collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. 1989/90 Upper Deck Rookie Preview: While not strictly a “rookie card,” this scarce early preview holds tremendous nostalgia value from Griffey’s first true season. Near-mint specimens have sold for well over $1,000. Even played copies bring $150-300 in today’s market as one of the rarest Griffey cards of the era. Its scarcity is attributable to Upper Deck only producing cards for the one sole year in 1989/1990. This remains a true find for dedicated collectors.

The 1990 and 1991 baseball card sets gave us some of the most coveted modern issued rookie cards and prime seasons for all-time greats like Griffey, Ripken, Bonds, McGwire, and Johnson. Even relatively common cards like these can still hold investment potential when high-grade. Their snapshot of dazzling talent and milestones makes cards from this period perennial favorites in the collecting hobby. With such revered names, fan interest and secondary market values show little sign of slowing down decades after their original release.

BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1991 WORTH MONEY

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The 1991 baseball card season was a pivotal year in the hobby. New players were entering their primes while legends were nearing retirement. Sets from 1991 like Donruss, Fleer, Score, and Topps are now highly sought after by collectors. Several key rookie cards and rare inserts from ’91 have gained significant value over the past 30 years.

Perhaps the most valuable baseball card from 1991 is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already one of the game’s brightest young stars in his first full season with the Seattle Mariners in ’91. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless athleticism made him a fan favorite. Topps captured Griffey’s emerging superstardom perfectly with its design for his rookie card, which featured a clean photo of him in a Mariners uniform with “The Kid” nickname. Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and his ’91 Topps rookie is the crown jewel of any collection. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples have sold for over $100,000, with most graded copies still fetching thousands.

Another hugely valuable rookie card from 1991 is Chipper Jones’ rookie with the Braves. As the #1 overall pick in the 1990 draft, Jones was one of baseball’s top prospects heading into his first season. His rookie card comes from the Score ’91 set and features a close-up shot of him in a Braves batting practice jersey. Jones lived up to the hype by winning the 1995 NL batting title in his first full season and accumulating nearly 3,000 hits, 450 home runs, and a career .303 average over 19 seasons, all with Atlanta. High-grade PSA 10 Jones rookies have sold for over $20,000.

Two other noteworthy rookies from the 1991 season are Frank Thomas of the White Sox and Mo Vaughn of the Red Sox. “The Big Hurt” exploded onto the scene by winning the ’91 AL ROY award and his Donruss rookie is a key piece for Sox collectors. PSA 10 Thomas rookies have brought in over $5,000. Vaughn’s rookie is more attainable but still valuable as he went on to win 3 batting titles. Top-graded PSA 10 Vaughn rookies sell for $1,000-2,000.

Beyond rookies, 1991 also featured the last cards for several future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Robin Yount. Brett’s final regular season card comes from Score and shows him batting right-handed. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $1,000. Ryan’s final regular season issue is his ’91 Fleer card, which features a close action shot. Graded PSA 10 Ryan cards from his last season have topped $2,000. Robin Yount’s final Topps card from 1991 as a Brewer is also highly sought after by collectors.

One of the rarest and most valuable inserts from 1991 is the Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie “Airbrush” parallel. Only 100 of these black and white airbrushed style Griffey rookies were inserted randomly in Upper Deck packs that year. Numbered to 100 on the back, ungraded examples have still sold for over $30,000 due to their extreme scarcity. Another coveted Griffey insert is the “Hitting Machine” parallel from Score ’91. This red-bordered parallel is numbered to 250 copies and high grades have brought in $8,000-$10,000 at auction.

Continued in next comment…

1991 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS SET VALUE

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The 1991 Topps Score Baseball Card Set commemorated the 30th anniversary of Topps’ first baseball card release in 1961. Score had been an offshoot brand launched by Topps in 1989 to provide an alternative to their flagship Topps brand. While not as popular as the main Topps set initially, Score gained traction among collectors through innovative parallel inserts and oddball veteran cards that gave the set its own distinct identity.

By 1991, Score had established itself as a viable competitor to Topps. The 1991 set would be the highest numbered Score release to date at 792 cards. In addition, Topps employed more premier rookie cards and star talent to drive collector interest. Featuring a clean and simple design with mostly action shots, the 1991 Score set became one of the most collected and valuable of the early Score era.

Key Players and Rookies

As with any baseball card set, the star rookies and popular veterans hold the most value today. Some of the top cards from the 1991 Score set include:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1): Widely considered one of the most coveted modern rookie cards, Griffey’s Score RC routinely fetches hundreds if not thousands of dollars in top grades. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for $100+.

Chipper Jones Rookie Card (#178): As one of the best third basemen of his generation, Chipper Jones’ rookie drew early collector attention. High-grade versions now sell for $200-300.

Jim Abbott Rookie Card (#315): The handicapped lefty pitcher’s inspiring story made his rookie popular. Mint condition copies have sold for over $100.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#380): “The Big Hurt” exploded onto the scene in 1991. Near mint Thomas rookies trade hands for $50-75.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card (#491): A future Hall of Famer, Alomar’s star power boosted his 1991 Score RC above $50-75 for top prospects.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#101): Always a fan favorite, Ripken’s action shot maintains strong valuations around $15-25 even today.

Nolan Ryan (#400): One of the set’s most visually appealing veteran cards, a near mint Ryan can still command $10-15.

Insert Sets and Parallels

A hallmark of early Score sets were the innovative insert sets and parallel variations added to core base cards. Key inserts from 1991 include:

Diamond Kings (#D1-D50): Superstar portraits on card stock made from embedded diamonds. Highly collectible, DKs sold for $50-100+ each.

Diamond Anniversary (#DA1-DA30): Compiling the biggest stars’ 1961 Topps rookie cards for a 30th anniversary tribute. Prices ranged from $20-75 based on name recognition.

Turn Back The Clock (#TBC1-TBC50): Vintage retro-styled black and white photos of current players imagining their 1961 rookie cards. Inserts fetched $10-25 each back in the day.

Diamond Materials (#DM1-DM15): Embossed silk-screened inserts on reflective diamond-style substrate. Early internet auction prices hovered around $30-50 per card.

Super Veterans (#SV1-SV25): High-gloss veteran cards highlighting accomplishment milestones. Near complete sets sold for $15-25 on release.

In addition, Topps issued rare parallel variations on gold, silver, and gold foil stock of base cards. These parallel versions exponentially increased values for stars like Griffey Jr. An unopened full gold parallel set once sold for over $1,000 online.

Condition and Completeness

As with all vintage cardboard, condition is key to 1991 Score values today. Near mint and gem mint graded 10 rookies can sell for 5-10x raw near mint prices. Inversely, significantly worn or damaged cards have little more than a few dollars of value even for stars. Completeness also impacts set collection potential. Near complete (90%+) original factory sets sold in the early 2000s for $500-800 depending on included inserts.

In Conclusion

While not initially as coveted as flagship Topps sets upon release, the 1991 Topps Score set has grown tremendously in regard over the past 3 decades. Bolstered by a stellar rookie class, acclaimed insert subsets, and parallel varieties, Score ’91 has become a solid long term investment at affordable levels relative to other vintage issues for both raw copies and graded gems. Values seem poised to continue their long term appreciation as another generation of collectors discovers the unique appeal of one of Score’s strongest early offerings.

1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors. The designs were fun and colorful, highlighting action shots of players. For those who purchased boxes of packs back in 1991 hoping to find star rookies and fill out their sets, opening those sealed boxes today can bring a rush of nostalgia. But for newer collectors, an unsearched 1991 Donruss box presents the thrill of the hunt for elusive chase cards still hidden within.

Donruss released sets annually from 1981 through 1992, rising to the top of the baseball card game alongside Topps during the late 80s boom. The company strived to make each year’s designs unique. In 1991, they went with a cartoonish, comic book style approach. Bright primary colors popped off equally vibrant action images. Set at 500 cards, it included future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Ryne Sandberg in their baseball primes. The checklist also featured up and coming young talent that would go on to have great careers like Jeff Bagwell, Frank Thomas, and Tom Glavine.

While not quite as iconic or valuable as the iconic 1987 or 1989 Topps sets today, 1991 Donruss had its fair share of appealing rookie cards. Third baseman Chipper Jones’s was arguably the most sought after. As the number one overall draft pick in 1990 by the Atlanta Braves, Jones went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is still regarded as one of the best switch hitters in baseball history. His Donruss rookie, along with prospects like Nomar Garciaparra and Derek Jeter, can still fetch over $100 in raw, ungraded form if found in a wax pack pull today.

Beyond rookies, collectors hunt 1991 Donruss for star power players depicted in exciting on-field action shots. Nolan Ryan’s card, which shows him mid-windup, can sell for well over $50 in respectable condition. Sluggers like Ken Griffey Jr., Jose Canseco, and Mark McGwire also have desirable base issues. Insert sets within the product added to the allure as well, such as “Super Sox” and “Super Stars” parallels that featured specially designed blue and red photo variations of notable players.

Though production numbers for 1991 Donruss were high, most factory sealed wax boxes remained unsearched until recent years as the set never reached the same price points as elite 1970s and 1980s releases in the secondary market. Many full boxes could be acquired for well under $100 up until the late 2010s vintage sports card boom. This all changed as renewed collector demand pushed values up sharply. Today, a never before searched, wax sealed 1991 Donruss box in top condition would usually trade hands for $500-800. For those lucky enough to uncover a Chipper Jones rookie pull, profits become practically limitless depending on centering and grade.

Of course, there are no guarantees what any individual unopened pack or box might contain. The excitement comes from not knowing if a true diamond in the rough awaits exploration. While top-tier hit cards will always be few and far between, there is satisfaction in filling out a long sought after childhood set too. Even base commons from the vintage 1991 design evoke a nostalgic rush. As with anything in life, it’s the journey that matters most. And for fans of the era, few trips down memory lane can compare to cracking packs of the colorful, action-packed 1991 Donruss baseball release for the first time. The sliver of cardboard gold found within could far surpass any monetary value as a reminder of summer days rediscovered.

In today’s sports card market flooded with modern products, authentic wax sealed 1991 Donruss boxes stand out as a tangible link to the late 80s/early 90s hobby heyday. Their relative unsearched status over the past 30 years only adds mystique and mystery. While average returns won’t match pricier 1980s sets, those willing to spend $500 to follow the original thrill of the hunt just may strike cardboard gold with a Chipper Jones or different big name rookie to treasure for life. For both investors and collectors looking to relive the past, few opportunities can match exploring the endless possibilities that still lie dormant inside an untouched case of the bold, brassy 1991 Donruss baseball release. Cracking one open remains a genuine trip down memory lane few thrillers from the vaults can rival.

1991 DONRUSS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Donruss Series 1 baseball card set was the ninth release from the popular Donruss brand and marked a milestone year as it was the first set released after the MLB players strike that canceled the 1990 postseason and pushed the 1991 season back. The set contains photos from the 1990 season but brought excitement as players were returning after the work stoppage.

Donruss was a leader in the baseball card industry in the late 80s and early 90s, known for high quality colorful photography on their cardboard. The 1991 release kept this tradition alive with crisp close-up portraits of the game’s biggest stars. The 329-card base set featured each player photographer individually with a gray bordered design. Standouts include Ken Griffey Jr’s powerful left-handed swing, Nolan Ryan’s over-the-top windup at age 43, and Rickey Henderson stealing another base.

Rookies included in the ’91 Donruss set that would go on to have Hall of Fame careers are Chipper Jones, Jeff Bagwell, and Tom Glavine. But the true rookie gem was Felipe Alou’s grandson, Moises Alou, who had one of the smoothest left-handed strokes in the league. Other notable young players making their Donruss debuts were Bobby Bonilla, Gregg Jefferies, and Terry Mulholland.

Veteran players rounding out the base checklist included future Hall of Famers Wade Boggs, George Brett, Eddie Murray, and Ozzie Smith. Fans also delighted in seeing Stars of the 80s like Mike Schmidt, Tony Gwynn, and Gary Carter. The design featured no team logos, so collectors had to rely on uniform recognition to identity players after they left their original clubs.

The insert chase cards added excitement to the 1991 Donruss Series 1 hobby boxes. These included ‘Diamond Kings’ parallels of stars on 1/1 cardboard stock, ‘Rated Rookies’ highlighting top prospects, and ‘Donruss All-Stars’ saluting some of the games greats from years past. A popular serialized parallel was the green-bordered ‘Green Tint’ parallel only numbered to 50 copies each. All these premium chase cards boosted the appeal of the base set.

Once the cards hit the marketplace, Griffey Jr’s rookie gained instant popularity as collectors could foresee his future superstar status. Other early favorites that gained traction among investors and traders included the Chipper Jones, Jeff Bagwell, and Glavine rookies along with stars like Nolan Ryan and Ryne Sandberg. The short printed parallel inserts also commanded strong interest and price tags from the beginning.

Within a few years, the 1991 Donruss set had become one of the strongest and most collected sports releases from the early 90s. Players like Griffey, Bagwell, and Jones delivered on their hype with Hall of Fame careers while the whole industry boom kept interest high. PSA and BGS slabbing also took off helping preserve the condition of the best specimens. Today, high grade examples of major stars and the toughest parallels remain quite valuable in the trading card market.

The 1991 Donruss baseball release arrived at the perfect time to help launch a new era of the sport after labor disputes threatened its future. Filled with superstars returning to action and young talents poised to take the game to new heights, the photography and designs captured memorable MLB moments. While not quite as iconic as some of the vintage releases that preceded it, the ’91 Donruss set showed why the brand was a industry leader. By spotlighting the sports best players during that transitionary season, it achieved lasting collector appeal and growth in value over the decades.

1991 FLEER BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1991 Fleer baseball card set was the last Fleer baseball card set produced before Upper Deck acquired the MLB license in 1992. While not as iconic or valuable as some other Fleer orTopps sets of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the 1991 Fleer set does contain some highly sought after cards that have increased in value in recent years. With 762 total cards in the base set plus additional insert sets, the 1991 Fleer set featured many of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. Several key rookie cards and short printed variants make certain 1991 Fleer cards very valuable for collectors today.

One of the most famous and valuable 1991 Fleer rookie cards is the Chipper Jones card. As the #1 overall pick in the 1990 MLB draft and an eventual Hall of Famer, Chipper Jones went on to have an illustrious career primarily with the Atlanta Braves. His rookie card from the 1991 Fleer set, which features him as a member of the Pawtucket Red Sox minor league affiliate, has steadily increased in price in recent years. Near mint to mint condition Chipper Jones rookies in a PSA 10 gem mint grade have sold for well over $1000. Even low graded copies in PSA 5 fair condition sell for $100 or more due to Jones’ popularity and the card’s increasing scarcity over time.

Another top rookie from the 1991 Fleer set is the Derek Jeter rookie card. As arguably the most famous Yankee of the late 90s dynasty teams, Jeter’s star power and on-field success have made his rookie cardboard one of the marquee rookie cards across all sports trading card releases. Higher grade Jeter rookies in PSA 9-10 condition command $1000+, but even well-worn copies still sell for $50-$100 based on collector demand for anything related to the Captain. His 1992 Score Definitive Collection rookie and 1993 Finest Refractor parallel are likely more valuable, but the 1991 Fleer Jeter remains a must-have for any baseball card collection.

Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card from the upper deck set is considered the most valuable modern-era rookie card in existence. However, Griffey also had an exceptionally rare and sought after rookie in the 1991 Fleer set during his early days with the Seattle Mariners. The Griffey Jr. rookie was part of Fleer’s ‘All-Rookie Team’ insert set within the base 1991 release. Numbered to only 100 copies, this ultra-short print Griffey rookie is THE key card from the 1991 Fleer collection. Fewer than 10 high-grade specimens are known to exist, and intact copies with proper centering and no flaws have sold at public auction for amounts approaching $10,000. Simply put, a Griffey Jr. ’91 Fleer All-Rookie Team rookie in PSA/BGS 9+ condition would be a true holy grail find for any collector.

Another legendary hitter with a valuable 1991 Fleer issue is Barry Bonds. Already a three-time All-Star and Gold Glover in 1991, Bonds’ power surge was still on the horizon. And of the 4 or 5 different Bonds rookie/star cards in 1991 Fleer, one stands out – the ‘Players Club’ insert parallel card. This special parallel featured select stars in a different uniform design within a 13-card ‘Players Club’ insert set that was exceedingly rare compared to the base cards. High grade Bonds ‘Players Club’ parallels are elusive and valued around $500-1000 depending on condition. Lower graded examples still sell for over $100 if centered and intact. Any vintage Bonds issue holds value exceptionally well owing to his all-time home run record and PED controversy surround his later career.

The massive scope of the 762 card 1991 Fleer base set naturally provides opportunities for variations and parallels beyond the aforementioned rookies. Three particular ‘short prints’ stand out for their scarcity and premium among collectors. Clay Jones (#616) from the Angels is considered one of the most difficult SP’s to obtain from the set, with well-centered examples valued near $100 even in low grades like PSA 5. Another elusive short print is Brett Butler (#492), and high grade specimens in PSA 9+ can reach upwards of $300 due to the difficulty finding this SP in pristine condition after decades of searching packs. Lastly, the Jose Uribe (#576) short print is tough to locate as well, as fewer than 10 are known to exist at PSA 9 or above. Properly authenticated specimens can easily cross $500, perhaps more if offered to a dedicated Uribe collector.

Beyond singles, the 1991 Fleer set also offers several valuable parallel insert variations. The ‘Diamond Kings’ parallel subset featuring foil stars is quite scarce complete, with a full 13-card PSA 10 mint set valued around $1000-1500. The ‘All-Time Heroes’ parallel insert of greats like Ted Williams and Stan Musial were printed on a rare metallic foil, and popular Hall of Famers like Frank Robinson and Brooks Robinson from this parallel command prices up to $50 a card in high grades of 9+ today. The 33-card ‘Triple Crown Club’ parallel was inserted rather scarcely, and full PSA/BGS 9.5-10 sets have topped $2000 once or twice at industry auctions. The combination of low print runs and iconic players make these 1991 Fleer parallel sets irresistible to collectors.

While not at the top of the hobby value pyramid, the 1991 Fleer baseball card release nevertheless contains several true star rookie cards and short print variations that hold tremendous importance and high prices for dedicated collectors today. Headlined by rookie gems of future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, and Ken Griffey Jr., along with other valuable first-year issues and parallel sets, the 1991 Fleer cards remain fascinating over thirty years after production. With its mix of future legends, scarce serially numbered parallels, and elusive short prints, the 1991 Fleer set shows no signs of weakening collector demand or interest from the vibrant trading card community anytime soon.

BEST 1991 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Leaf baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the year. After bursting onto the scene in 1990 with their innovative borderless design, Leaf followed up with another exciting offering in 1991. While not quite as groundbreaking as their debut set, the ’91 Leaf cards still featured some of the coolest and most collectible cards of the entire baseball card boom era.

One of the biggest storylines of the 1991 season was Nolan Ryan’s pursuit of Sandy Koufax’s record for most career strikeouts. Ryan entered the year just 39 K’s shy of breaking the mark, and card collectors knew Leaf would feature some special cards to commemorate the milestone. Sure enough, Leaf delivered with a stunning Nolan Ryan record breaker card, depicting him mid-windup with the words “Career Strikeout King” across the top. This is undoubtedly one of the most iconic baseball cards ever made and remains extremely valuable to this day.

Another huge star of the early 90s was Toronto Blue Jays slugger Joe Carter. After hitting .284 with 36 home runs and 111 RBI in 1990, Carter was firmly established as one of baseball’s premier power hitters. Leaf captured his dominance with a terrific action pose card that shows Carter unleashing a mighty swing. This Carter is one of the most visually appealing cards from the set and is a must-have for any Jays or Carter collector.

Rookies were also a major focus for Leaf in 1991 as the card industry was still riding high on the arrival of young stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas in the late 80s. One of the top prospects that year was Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Wes Chamberlain. An incredibly gifted athlete, Chamberlain’s Leaf rookie card depicts him striding confidently towards the camera with “Rookie Sensation” printed below. Unfortunately injuries derailed his career, but his rookie card remains a key piece for Phillies and 91 Leaf collectors.

Another rookie who panned out was Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tom Browning. The former number one overall pick was coming off an impressive debut season and Leaf featured him on one of the more underrated gems from the set. His card shows Browning mid-windup with a fierce intensity on his face. While not as valuable as some of the superstars, Browning’s rookie is a solid pickup for anyone building a Reds or pitcher collection from this era.

Of course, no discussion of the 1991 Leaf set would be complete without mentioning the greatest player of all time – Michael Jordan. After winning his first NBA title with the Chicago Bulls in 1991, Jordan’s crossover appeal was at an all-time high. Leaf capitalized with an iconic “Air Jordan” card that paid homage to his soaring ability on the basketball court. Over 30 years later, it’s still surreal to see MJ featured alongside baseball legends. Highly sought after by collectors both in and out of the sport.

The designs and photography throughout the 1991 Leaf set were truly ahead of their time. Using innovative angles and unique crops, the cards brought the on-field action to life in a way that had never been achieved before. Standouts like a Roberto Alomar double play turn and a Lenny Dykstra diving catch exemplified this creative approach. The borders were also a step above most other offerings that year, featuring team logos and intricate patterns that added tremendous visual pop.

In terms of parallels and insert sets, Leaf kept things relatively straightforward in 1991. The big hits were 30th Anniversary parallels of star players like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith and Roger Clemens. A bit more common than the base cards but still highly collectible variants. The “Diamond Kings” insert set focusing on franchise cornerstones was also well received. Featuring legends like Ernie Banks and Hank Aaron, these remain popular with team collectors.

In the end, the 1991 Leaf baseball card set earned its place among the all-time classics due to the incredible photography, memorable rookie cards, and capturing of that magical early 90s baseball era. While prices have risen significantly for the true star cards, values remain reasonable across the board compared to some other vintage sets. For any collector looking to build their childhood collection or explore this seminal period in card history, 1991 Leaf is an absolute must-have.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 1991 PRICING

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Like many sets from that era, the 1991 Donruss cards featured vibrant photography, bold designs, and a wide array of rookie cards and stars from both leagues. Over 30 years later, the 1991 Donruss set remains a popular and valuable vintage release for collectors.

Donruss released two series of cards in 1991, with a total of 792 cards between the two. The flagship set included cards numbered 1-399, while the second series picked up with cards 400-792. Some of the top rookies featured that year included Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, Mike Piazza, and Moises Alou. Superstar veterans like Nolan Ryan, Kirby Puckett, Cal Ripken Jr., and Barry Bonds also highlighted the set.

The design of the 1991 Donruss cards had a very “1990s” aesthetic. A thick white or color border surrounded each photo, with a blue “D” logo in the bottom left corner. Statistics were printed on the bottom of each card in a thin font. The most visually striking aspect was the bold color washes used as backgrounds for each photo—everything from deep reds and oranges to bright blues and greens. This gave the entire set a very vibrant and eye-catching look.

When first released in 1991, the Donruss baseball card set retailed for around $1 per pack. As the baseball card market peaked that same year, individual packs and boxes of 1991 Donruss could be found for even higher prices in retail stores and at card shows. After the bubble burst in the early 1990s, values dropped dramatically across the board.

In the decades since, the 1991 Donruss set has regained popularity and value amongst vintage collectors. Some of the most valuable and sought-after cards from the set include:

Chipper Jones RC (#1): One of the premier rookie cards from the early 1990s, Jones’ Donruss RC in near-mint to mint condition can fetch $500-1000+. Graded examples in PSA/BGS 10 have sold for over $2000.

Jim Thome RC (#400): Another highly coveted rookie, Thome’s card from the second series is worth $150-300 in top shape. PSA/BGS 10 examples have sold for $500-1000.

Mike Piazza RC (#449): Arguably the most iconic catcher of his generation, Piazza’s rookie remains popular. Near-mint to mint copies sell in the $150-300 range.

Nolan Ryan (#51): One of the set’s biggest star cards, a Ryan in top condition can sell for $75-150.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#81): As one of the most consistent and durable players of all time, Ripken’s card retains value. Near-mint copies sell for $50-100.

Kirby Puckett (#101): A beloved Twins star, Puckett’s card has found renewed interest. Near-mint examples sell for $40-75.

Barry Bonds (#151): Even before his record-breaking career, Bonds was one of the game’s greats. His card sells for $30-60 in top shape.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#301): While not a true rookie card, Griffey Jr.’s early Donruss card remains popular. Near-mint copies sell for $25-50.

Roberto Alomar (#351): Another strong player card, Alomar’s 1991 Donruss sells for $15-30 in top condition.

While team and parallel sets from 1991 Donruss carry value as well, the above star rookies and veterans represent the most desirable cards and hold the highest values today. Obtaining 1991 Donruss cards in near-mint to mint condition is key, as even minor flaws can significantly reduce a card’s worth. The market also favors graded gems, with PSA/BGS 10 examples of the top rookies often fetching four-figure prices or more. The 1991 Donruss set remains one of the most iconic and collectible baseball issues from the junk wax era. Three decades later, it retains nostalgia and strong demand that shows no signs of slowing down.

VALUE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1991

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The 1991 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the elite and highly valuable sets from the 1990s.Released in the spring of 1991, the set contains 792 total cards including base cards, traded cards, rookie cards, and stars of the game inserts. Several factors contribute to the high demand and value of cards from this particular Topps series.

One of the biggest reasons 1991 Topps cards hold their value so well decades later is the impressive rookie class featured in the set. Arguably the greatest rookie class of all time, the ’91 Topps rookies include Hall of Famers Griffey Jr., Piazza, and Smoltz along with star players David Justice, Roberto Alomar, Jeff Bagwell, and Terry Mulholland. The rookie cards of these future superstars like Griffey Jr. and Piazza routinely fetch thousands of dollars in pristine conditioned. Even lesser known rookies like Mark Grace and Kevin Maas have valuable cards in the set worth hundreds in mint condition.

Another factor is the starpower and future Hall of Famers whose primes were captured in the 1991 set. Ken Griffey Jr was already on his way to superstardom and his base card remains one of the most iconic and desirable of the entire decade. Other huge names like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., Andre Dawson, and Tony Gwynn had defining seasons immortalized in the ’91 issue. Their cards retain value given their legendary playing careers and statuses as some of the all-time greats.

The 1991 Topps design itself is also beloved by collectors. Featuring bold colors and graphics with team logos dominating much of the front of the card, the aesthetics have an old school charm. The trader card design brings back nostalgia for the era. The photography and production quality was also excellent for its time. The memorable and classic look of the 1991s keeps interest high from collectors three decades later.

Scarcities and low print runs also boost values long-term for the 1991 Topps set. Like most late 80s/early 90s issues, production and distribution was much smaller compared to modern mega sets with print runs sometimes reaching into the millions. This scarcity naturally drives prices up over time as fewer examples remain in premium condition to change hands. Populations reports often list mint ’91s as quite difficult to acquire in pristine shape.

Graded gem mint examples fetch big bucks due to this scarcity in higher grades. PSA 10 rookies and star cards consistently break auction records. Even common players gain value with higher grades. A PSA 10 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie would eclipse $10,000 easily while a PSA 10 Ripken Update card reached $8,000 back in 2020. Condition sensitive buyers focus heavily on the ’91s.

Compared to sets immediately prior or after, 1991 Topps values have held up better long-term too. The late 80s/early 90s is when the vintage market really took off. Combined with the factors above like starpower, design, and legendary rookie class- 1991 remained a perennial favorite for collectors. Graded pop reports reveal fewer high grade ’91s remain compared to surrounding years as well. This positions the set apart even among its era.

While raw neglected common cards can still be had a Buck or two in played condition, don’t let that fool you. The true high-end investment tier cards from the 1991 Topps set such as the named rookies and stars consistently set auction records. With no signs of slowing down, ’91s will likely remain one of the must-have vintage flagships for years to come. Its tremendous lasting popularity and long list of all-time greats locked in their primes makes the 1991 Topps set stand out with high valuations even at the 30-year mark.

1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable vintage baseball card sets from the early 1990s. Issued in packs from 1991-1992, the Ultra set had several features that made it stand out from other sets at the time and led to some cards achieving legendary status among collectors.

With vibrant design and color photography of each player on a textured gold foil background, the Ultra set was visually striking compared to basic cardboard issues of the past. Fleer also used newly acquired licensing from both the MLB and MLBPA, allowing them to use active players’ names and images. This gave the cards superior authenticity and appeal for collectors.

More significantly, the extremely small print run of just 12 cards per box made the 1991 Ultra cards instantly scarce. By 1992, Fleer had lost the MLB license and the set was no longer produced. Combined with the popularity of stars from that era like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas, these factors fueled strong initial and longterm demand for the cards.

Several stars from the ’91 Ultra set have cards now worth thousands of dollars or more in top grades. Here are some of the most valuable:

Barry Bonds Rookie Card (RC): As one of the most iconic rookie cards in the hobby, Bonds’ 1991 Ultra RC is widely considered the key card from the set. In Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition, it currently sells for $4,000-$6,000 raw or $10,000+ if professionally graded Gem Mint (GM) 10.

Ken Griffey Jr. RC: Fellow rookie Griffey’s star power and the card’s rarity have it rivaling Bonds as the second most valuable ’91 Ultra card. NM-MT copies trade around $3,000 while a PSA 10 can fetch over $8,000 at auction.

Frank Thomas RC: Though not as rare as the Bonds/Griffey RCs since he was a late-round pick, Frank The Big Hurt’s rookie remains highly sought after. Pricing is $1,200-$1,800 NM-MT and $3,000+ for a true mint PSA 10.

Nolan Ryan Mini: Limited to one per wax pack, the Nolan Ryan mini-card parallel features a close-up shot on a smaller Card#250 size. Only 120 are estimated produced, making it the rarest regular issue and worth $4,000+ NM-MT.

Cal Ripken Jr. / Eddie Murray Dual: Only 10 of these 1/1 unique dual mini cards featuring future Hall of Famers Cal Ripken Jr. and Eddie Murray are reported to exist. Speculated value is $20,000+ depending on certification.

While not true investments, holding high grade examples long term has proven profitable for 1991 Ultra cards. The rarity, iconic players, and nice original design have maintained strong demand. Even commons sell for $5-15 each raw depending on the player today.

For serious collectors, finding that elusive PSA 10 Barry Bonds RC in a group lot break or internet auction could yield a small fortune. With popularity of the players and nostalgia for cards of that era constantly growing the hobby, the 1991 Ultra cards seem poised to remain among the most valuable vintage issues for years to come. Their extremely limited print run, colorful design, and superstar rookie class cemented this set’s place in baseball card history.