Tag Archives: 1991

COMPLETE SET OF 1991 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Upper Deck baseball card set was the second release from the innovative Upper Deck company and marked a turning point in the baseball card industry. Following the massive success of the company’s debut in 1989, Upper Deck set the standard for quality and design that other manufacturers strove to match. While individual cards from the ’91 set don’t command huge values today, having a complete set in mint condition can be quite valuable for collectors.

The 1991 Upper Deck set contains 792 total cards including rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Todd Helton. The design featured vertical borders with team logos at the top and player stats/accomplishments along the bottom. Photography and production values were lightyears ahead of Topps and Donruss at the time. Glossy stock and sharp images made the cards highly collectible upon release.

While individual star cards may not hold huge value, there are a few notable exceptions. The rookie card of Chipper Jones is one of the key cards from the set. In a PSA 10 gem mint condition it can fetch $300-500. The Jim Thome rookie in the same grade commands $150-250. Other star rookies like Todd Helton, Jason Giambi, and Paul O’Neill in top condition bring $50-100 each.

Veteran star cards have held up reasonably well too. The Ken Griffey Jr. and Nolan Ryan cards can be found for $20-30 in top shape. The Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs cards are $15-25. But for the most part, common player cards only bring $1-5 even in pristine condition.

Where the real value comes in is having a complete set. A 1991 Upper Deck set in PSA/BGS 9-10 mint condition could bring $3,000-5,000 today. Even in near mint to mint 8-9 condition a full set would sell for $1,500-2,500. The scarcity of complete high-grade sets drives the premium pricing.

There are a few factors contributing to the value of a complete 1991 Upper Deck set:

Limited Production – Upper Deck printed fewer sets than the monster runs of Topps and Donruss in the late 80s/early 90s. This scarcity enhances the set’s collectibility.

High Quality – The card stock, photography and design were a cut above the competition. Sets have held up very well overall when properly stored and displayed.

Star Rookie Cards – Having the Chipper Jones, Thome and Helton rookies, all considered key cards from the set, adds tremendous value.

Set Completion – Collectors are willing to pay a premium for a fully completed set in high grades rather than buying cards individually. Having all 792 cards in one place is quite an achievement.

Nostalgia Factor – The 1991 Upper Deck set was hugely popular upon release and sparked the baseball card boom of the early 90s. It holds strong nostalgia value for collectors who grew up during that era.

While the values of individual 1991 Upper Deck cards may not excite most collectors on their own, the real hidden gem is owning the complete set in top condition. Prices have remained fairly stable and some experts predict the values could potentially increase over the long term as the original collectors from that time period get older. For those seeking a complete high-end vintage set with future appreciation potential, the 1991 Upper Deck baseball issue fits the bill.

A pristine 1991 Upper Deck complete set is a considerable achievement for any collector and carries a substantial price tag reflecting its rarity and historical significance within the hobby. For those willing to pay top-dollar, it represents owning a true piece of the early 90s baseball card boom in the finest available quality. While not quite reaching the rarefied air of the ’52 Topps or ’57 Topps sets, a mint ’91 Upper Deck can certainly stake its claim as one of the most coveted vintage issues among today’s serious collectors.

1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra set is one of the most iconic and valuable of the modern era of baseball cards. With its revolutionary and innovative design that brought color portraits and team photos to the mainstream along with stats on the back, the 1991 Fleer Ultra set played a key role in revitalizing the baseball card industry in the early 1990s. Though somewhat overlooked at the time in favor of the flagship Topps set, 1991 Fleer Ultra cards have grown significantly in popularity and demand from collectors in recent decades.

With PSA having established the leading third-party grading service for collectible cards, many key 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards and stars from the set have achieved high PSA grades that command steep prices at auction. The huge popularity of stars from that era like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and Frank Thomas combined with the innovative aesthetics of the 1991 Fleer Ultra design have made many of those high-grade PSA gems quite desirable among today’s most serious collectors and investors.

Some of the most notable and valuable 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards that have achieved high PSA grades include Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie, which has consistently sold for over $10,000 in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition. Perhaps the Holy Grail for any Griffey collection is his 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie in a PSA 10, with auction prices reaching an astounding $100,000 in recent years. Another massive card is Barry Bonds’ rookie, which has also topped $10,000 in a PSA 10 considering his all-time home run records and superstar status. Frank Thomas’ rookie is also a significant card, selling in the ballpark of $3,000-$5,000 in a PSA 10.

Beyond the rookie cards, key inserts and parallels from 1991 Fleer Ultra that demand big money in PSA’s top grades include the “Splash Hits” parallel sets featuring booming home runs on a white background. Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas cards from these parallel sets have realized over $2,000 in PSA 10. The set’s “ULTRA Trading Card” parallel inserts which feature silver signatures are also highly coveted. Short prints like card #370 Larry Walker have sold for $1,000+ in a PSA 10 due to their scarcity within the set.

While raw ungraded 1991 Fleer Ultra cards can still be acquired for affordable prices, PSA has certified thousands of examples from the set over the years. Earning the ultimate PSA Gem Mint 10 grade is no easy task considering the fragile thin stock used for Fleer cards of that era. It’s estimated only about 1-2% of all 1991 Fleer Ultra submissions receive the coveted and respected PSA 10 black label. This rarity directly translates to significant premiums over lower graded examples or raw cards.

One factor driving huge prices for PSA 10 1991 Fleer Ultra cards is that the true “fresh to pack” investment-grade examples suitable for long-term collecting and potential future resale are getting exceedingly difficult to find intact after nearly 30 years. While some lucky collectors may have carefully stored original unopened wax packs all these years, the vast majority of specimens on the secondary market today naturally shows at least some hint of play, handling, or age. This scarcity of pristine time-capsule specimens suitable for a PSA 10 only enhances demand.

With the card market continuing to explode with new high-dollar records, most industry experts forecast 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards and stars encapsulated in the illustrious PSA 10 holder will steadily rise in value over the long run. Serious vintage collectors continue to pay top-dollar to build complete PSA 10 sets for portfolio purposes. While the initial hype and prices of the early 1990s have long since faded, today’s investors clearly still see the foresight and promise in preserving these pioneering 1991 Fleer Ultra cards in the finest grades possible through PSA. For those seeking a blend of nostalgia, aesthetics, and sound long-term appreciation potential – 1991 Fleer Ultra in PSA 10 form remains a can’t-miss collectible investment decades later.

O-PEE-CHEE 1991 BASEBALL CARDS

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O-Pee-Chee baseball cards exploded in popularity in the early 1990s as the hobby reached new heights. The 1991 O-Pee-Chee baseball card set would be no exception, featuring the biggest stars and rookies of that era on classic cardboard.

Released in March of 1991 by sports card manufacturer O-Pee-Chee, the set contained 226 total cards including player cards, manager cards, checklist cards and more. Some of the biggest rookie cards from 1991 included Mike Piazza, Roberto Alomar, Juan Gonzalez and Jeff Bagwell. Superstar veterans like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Cal Ripken Jr. and Ozzie Smith also had highly collectible cards in the 1991 set.

The design of the 1991 O-Pee-Chee cards stood out from previous years with a clean, simple look featuring mostly grayscale photos with splashes of bright team colors. Player names, positions and stats were neatly laid out at the bottom along with the O-Pee-Chee logo. The back of each card contained biography and career stats written in both English and French, as O-Pee-Chee cards were popular in both the United States and Canada.

Distribution of 1991 O-Pee-Chee baseball cards was widespread through hobby shops, drug stores, grocery stores and other retail outlets. Many kids could be found eagerly searching through wax packs and boxes trying to complete their sets. The affordable price point of a pack or two at a time made collecting attainable even for those on an allowance. As baseball card culture grew, O-Pee-Chee emerged as a popular affordable brand alongside Topps and Donruss.

Of the top rookie cards in the 1991 O-Pee-Chee set, Mike Piazza’s is arguably the most valuable today. Piazza went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Dodgers and Mets as one of the greatest hitting catchers of all time. In gem mint PSA 10 condition, his rookie card can sell for thousands due to his amazing stateline and the card’s low print run. Similarly, Juan Gonzalez and Jeff Bagwell rookie cards are highly sought after for Hall of Fame-caliber players from the early 90s.

Perhaps the most infamous card from the 1991 O-Pee-Chee set is Nolan Ryan’s. As arguably the greatest power pitcher ever, any Ryan card holds value but this one stands out. There was an error made where Ryan’s uniform number is listed as “30” instead of his actual number “34”. Only a small number of these mistake cards were printed, making the misprint extremely rare and valuable for error card collectors. In high grades, the Nolan Ryan #30 error can sell for over $10,000 due to its one-of-a-kind status.

Beyond just the star players, 1991 O-Pee-Chee had valuable rookie cards for pitchers like Kenny Rogers, John Wetteland, Joey Hamilton and Heathcliff Slocumb. Young position player prospects like Mike Kelly, Carlos Baerga and Darren Daulton also debuted in the set as future big leaguers. And manager cards for popular skippers like Bobby Cox, Tony La Russa and Jim Leyland added to the nostalgia.

In the early 1990s, the collectibles boom was white hot with baseball cards leading the charge. This made unopened 1991 O-Pee-Chee product like wax boxes and unsearched cases extremely desirable and sought after by vendors. Even today, finding sealed boxes or cases in mint condition would be a prized possession of any vintage card collector. As one of the all-time classic O-Pee-Chee issues, demand remains high for individual cards in top grades as well, especially the key rookies.

Though production of O-Pee-Chee cards has ceased in recent decades, their place in baseball card history and nostalgia remains prominent. The 1991 set perfectly captures the superstars and future legends of that Golden Era. Items like the rare Nolan Ryan error prove why vintage issues maintained relevance in the hobby for decades to come. Any serious collector would be fortunate to obtain a complete or partial 1991 O-Pee-Chee set in pristine condition to commemorate the peak years of cardboard collecting.

MOST VALUABLE TOPPS 1991 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Topps baseball card set marked the 30th anniversary of Topps’ baseball cards and contained several highly sought after rookie cards that have become extremely valuable over the years. The set consisted of 792 total cards including bios, record breakers, and league leaders cards in addition to individual player photos. Several factors contributed to certain 1991 Topps cards gaining immense popularity and value such as star players, milestone accomplishments, and retirements. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most expensive and desirable cards from the 1991 Topps set.

Perhaps the most coveted and expensive card from 1991 Topps is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the best player of his generation, Griffey Jr. had a phenomenal 22-year career and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016. His rookie card showcased his electric talent and gave collectors an early opportunity to acquire a piece of history from one of the game’s all-time great outfielders. In pristine mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s 1991 Topps rookie has sold for over $100,000, making it one of the highest valued modern baseball cards ever. Even well-worn near worthless copies still pull in hundreds to thousands due to enduring demand.

Another rookie card that has stood the test of time is pitching icon Greg Maddux’s first Topps issue from 1991. Maddux went on to win 4 Cy Young Awards and is regarded as one of baseball’s elite control artists, but collectors had the chance to get in early on the platform years before he cemented his Hall of Fame status. Pristine PSA 10 copies of Maddux’s rookie have reached over $10,000 with most graded specimens still earning several grand. It remains one of the most iconic pitcher rookie cards from the modern era.

Two other notable rookie cards from 1991 Topps were Fernando Valenzuela and Frank Thomas. “Fernandomania” swept Los Angeles in the early 80s and his rookie provided a key piece of Dodgers history from that exciting period. PSA 10 grades have sold for $2,000+. As for Thomas, he developed into one of baseball’s most feared sluggers, winning back-to-back AL MVPs in 1993-1994. High grade copies of his rookie in Cubs uniform can fetch well over $1,000.

In addition to star rookies, the 1991 Topps set contained the last cards for several legends as well. Perhaps most notably was Nolan Ryan’s final card before retirement marked “574th Career Start.” Only one other player in history has reached that milestone start threshold, furthering Ryan’s status as a pitching demigod. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $1,000. Fellow Hall of Famer Don Sutton also retreated in 1991, making his last Topps issue another sought after veteran standout.

Some additional opportunities for big vale 1991 cards involve milestones, errors, variations, and serial numbers. For example, Rickey Henderson’s card featuring his record-breaking stolen base #938 as well as Nolan Ryan’s card noting his 5000th career strikeout. errors like the misspelled “Willie” McGee rookie or serial number parallels like the coveted #151 Ken Griffey Jr. also drive collectors. The 1991 Topps set provides a treasure trove of options for enthusiasts of the vintage era and modern stars alike with values sure to increase over time. For cardboard investors and baseball fans alike, it’s a true cornerstone release from the hobby’s golden age.

While it may be 30 years old, the 1991 Topps baseball card set remains highly relevant in the hobby today. Rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr., Maddux, and Thomas will always be desired, but other factors like milestones, variations, and retirements added value as well. As interest in vintage wax and players from the late 80s and 90s boom period grows, expect 1991 Topps gems to attract more collector attention and command top dollar. With seminal issues featuring all-time greats and young stars, it defined an era and legacy that ensures ongoing demand.

1991 TOPPS ARCHIVES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Topps Archives baseball card set was released at the start of the 1991 MLB season as a nostalgia throwback set featuring reprinted designs from Topps cards of the past. With its retro styling focusing on the 1950s and 60s, the 1991 Topps Archives set became a unique commemorative release that baseball card collectors eagerly awaited each year.

The 1991 Topps Archives set contained 132 cards and featured designs replicated from 14 different previous Topps sets issued between 1956-1969. The front of each card contained an exact replica of the original Topps design being honored, while the back offered updated player information and career statistics. With styles ranging from the ornate designs of the late 1950s to the simple white borders of the late 1960s, the 1991 Topps Archives set celebrated over three decades of Topps baseball card history in one commemorative collection.

Some of the more notable designs that were paid homage to in the 1991 Topps Archives set included the 1956 Topps cards, known for their painted player portrait style. Also featured were designs from the popular 1961 and 1962 Topps sets, recognized for their team logo embellishments. The pinstripe borders of the 1964 Topps cards and the simple black and white photos of the 1968 Topps cards were additional retro styles that collectors enjoyed seeing recreated as well.

Beyond just duplicating the original card fronts, Topps also meticulously replicated production and printing defects that were known to occur with certain vintage designs. For example, the 1956 and 1957 card reprints carried over miscuts and color variations that were prevalent in those earlier Topps issues. This attention to detail in mimicking flaws from the past added to the retro appeal and heightened sense of nostalgia the 1991 Topps Archives instilled in collectors.

While the front designs paid homage to previous years, the back of each 1991 Topps Archives card offered a modern update. Player names, positions, and career statistics were all current as of the 1991 season. For cards featuring players no longer active, a short retrospective was provided. This achieved the goal of blending vintage aesthetics with updated baseball references collectors could relate to in the present day.

Distribution of the 1991 Topps Archives set mostly followed that of a standard Topps release of the time. Wax packs containing several random commons along with a scarce memorabilia cardchecklist were available for purchase off the hobby shop rack. Some retailers also offered factory set and jumbo box options containing the complete 132 card collection. While production numbers were decent, the set saw considerable appreciation over the years as demand grew for well-preserved examples.

Graded specimens fetching five-figure sums at auction weren’t unheardof by the late 2010s. Stars of the era like Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, and Reggie Jackson consistently ranked amongst the set’s most in-demand and valuable rookie cards. But lesser players also gained interest as collectors sought to complete full runs of particular styles being honored, like the 1959 or 1968 designs. This dual appeal to both star rookies and design variations added collecting depth and intrigue to the 1991 Topps Archives.

In subsequent years of the annual Archives issues that followed, Topps continued experimenting with different eras being paid respect to. 1993 focused on the 1970s while 1995 highlighted designs from the mid-1980s. The quality and selectivity of designs included varied, with some editions praised more highly than others. But the 1991 release remained the most popular amongst collectors as the series starter that kicked off the Archives trend. Now over 30 years removed, examples in top condition maintain an inviting nostalgic quality and document an iconic commemorative set from baseball card history’s early heritage era. The 1991 Topps Archives paid tribute to design styles of Topps past and brought collectors an engaging annual nostalgia product that has endured for decades.

1991 COMPLETE SET BASEBALL CARDS UPPER DECK

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The 1991 Upper Deck baseball card set was truly revolutionary and helped spark a resurgence in the baseball card industry during the early 1990s. With 762 total cards issued, the 1991 Upper Deck set showcased a brand new design philosophy and level of quality that set the standard for modern baseball cards.

Prior to Upper Deck’s entrance into the baseball card market in 1989, the main manufacturers like Topps and Donruss were producing very basic and formulaic cards. Photography and designs grew stale and card quality was mediocre at best. Many collectors had lost interest by the late 1980s. When Upper Deck released their inaugural baseball card set in 1989 featuring holograms, refractors, and incredible photography, it took the hobby by storm. Collectors were absolutely wowed by the new premium product.

Building on that momentum, Upper Deck knew they had to raise the bar even higher for their 1991 offering. They hired acclaimed sports photographer Tony Tomsic to capture all new poses and action shots of every player. Gone were the plain generic team shots. Tomsic’s portraits brought each star to vivid life. Incredibly sharp printing and coated stock gave cards a fantastic sheen unlike anything seen before. Subjects practically leapt off the card.

Upper Deck also solicited contemporary artist renderings from luminaries such as LeRoy Neiman, Leroy Nieman, and others to grace the fronts of stars like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, and Kirby Puckett. These added a true collector’s item element. Meanwhile, thorough statistical and biographical information on the verso ensured 1991 Upper Deck set the gold standard for in-depth player profiles.

Another groundbreaking aspect was the inclusion of complete minor league rosters from the AAA and AA levels, totaling over 200 future MLB stars like Todd Helton, Jason Giambi, and David Eckstein who were included years before their major league debuts. This allowed collectors an early look at tomorrow’s talent and added immense depth to the set.

Rookies were also spotlighted with special attention paid to the true debut year cards of future Hall of Famers such as Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, and Craig Biggio. In all, over 70 members of the Hall of Fame were included across both their classic rookie and modern traded cards in the 1991 Upper Deck release.

Beyond the impressive player selection, Upper Deck also featured innovative insert sets within the base issuance. An Autographics parallel signature series included swatches of jerseys and autographs from the games’ top names. Precious Metal Gems refractors and holograms added visual pop. And iconic stadium shots from Fenway Park to Wrigley Field transported collectors to ballparks around the country.

Perhaps most dramatically, Upper Deck also crafted the first-ever Premier Prospects inserts showcasing the superstars of tomorrow. Rookies like Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, and Jason Varitek had their own special preview cards years prior to debuting. This gave collectors a chance to snatch up future Hall of Famers for just pennies, only adding to the thrill of the 1991 Upper Deck release.

When all was said and done, the 1991 Upper Deck baseball set had revolutionized the hobby. With unmatched photography, exhaustive stats, and innovations like minor leaguers, prospect previews, and inserts, it set a new standard that competitors struggled to match. Within a few short years, Topps and Donruss had been relegated to second-tier status. Upper Deck became the premier brand that every collector sought after, cementing its place at the pinnacle of the sports card world.

In the ensuing decades, the 1991 Upper Deck set has only grown in popularity and renown. Iconic cards like the Jeter rookie have smashed price records in auctions. Entire sets still command thousands. For many veteran collectors, the 1991 Upper Deck remains the high water mark that started their enduring love of the hobby. Its influence can still be felt in the meticulous craft that modern card makers bring. All these years later, the 1991 release stands as the most influential and important baseball card set ever produced.

BEST CARDS 1991 SCORE BASEBALL

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The 1991 Score baseball card set was one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Produced by Score Board, the set featured cards of all major league players and prospects as the baseball card boom was in full swing. While not quite as coveted and expensive as the classic 1987 and 1989 Topps sets, 1991 Score cards still hold nostalgia and value for many collectors today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the best and most valuable cards from the 1991 Score baseball release.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1) – Widely considered one of if not the single most iconic rookie card of all time, Griffey’s rookie card from 1991 Score is arguably the crown jewel of the entire set. Featuring a beautiful action photo of the young superstar, Griffey’s rookie established him as a budding star and one of the faces of the new generation of baseball. High grade copies in mint condition regularly sell for well over $1000 today due to Griffey’s legendary career and the card’s extreme scarcity. Even well-centered near mint copies can fetch $500-600.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#99) – While not quite as heralded as Griffey’s rookie, Thomas’ 1991 Score RC is still an extremely valuable card in its own right. Like Griffey, Thomas went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie card established him as an impact player right away. Mint PSA 10 copies have sold for over $800, showing the card’s strong demand. Even well-centered near mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range sell for $200-400 routinely.

Barry Bonds (#181) – Arguably the single greatest player of the 1990s, Barry Bonds’ 1991 Score card showcases him in his early Pirates days before blossoming into the home run king. High grade copies remain quite scarce and have sold for $500-600 in mint condition. Even well-centered near mint copies can fetch $200-300 due to Bonds’ legendary career and the card’s iconic photo.

Roberto Alomar (#193) – One of the best all-around second basemen of all-time, Alomar’s 1991 Score RC features a sweet action shot. Like most star rookies from the set, PSA 10 gems have sold for well over $500. Even PSA 8-9 copies still demand $150-300 on the secondary market.

Derek Jeter Rookie Card (#377) – While not his official rookie card (that came in 1992 Topps), Jeter’s first Score issue remains a highly coveted card. Featuring a young Jeter in his Mariners uniform before being traded to the Yankees, high grade copies have sold for $400-600. PSA 8s still fetch $150-250.

Other Notable Stars – Additional star players whose ’91 Score cards hold value include Kirby Puckett (#11 – $300+ PSA 10), Cal Ripken Jr. (#68 – $200+ PSA 10), Wade Boggs (#99 – $150+ PSA 10), Ozzie Smith (#119 – $200+ PSA 10), Mark McGwire (#156 – $150+ PSA 10), and Nolan Ryan (#189 – $150+ PSA 10). All command strong prices in high grades.

Rookies of Future Stars – In addition to the headliners above, the set also included first Score cards of many other future stars like Mo Vaughn (#276 – $100+ PSA 10), Jeff Bagwell (#277 – $150+ PSA 10), David Justice (#279 – $100+ PSA 10), and Tom Glavine (#557 – $75+ PSA 10). These serve as affordable options for collectors.

Insert Cards – Beyond the base set, 1991 Score also included several popular insert sets like Diamond Kings, Diamond Cutters, and Diamond Anniversary parallels. Highlights include a Frank Thomas Diamond Kings (#DK7) that has reached $400 PSA 10 and a Nolan Ryan (#DC14) Diamond Cutter that sold for over $300 graded mint.

While not the most expensive vintage set overall, 1991 Score baseball cards remain a solid investment grade option for collectors three decades later. Anchored by the iconic rookie cards of Griffey, Thomas, and others, the set provides opportunities to acquire affordable copies of all-time great players. For those seeking a complete set, raw sets can be found for under $1000 if patience is shown. Individual star rookie and insert cards still command strong prices fitting of their legendary subjects. The 1991 Score release was truly one of the finest of its era.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1991 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Score baseball card set marked the beginning of the modern era of sports cards as a mainstream hobby. While sets in previous decades contained some highly valuable rookie cards, 1991 Score introduced collectors to incredible superstar rookies who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Several factors came together to make certain 1991 Score rookie cards exponentially more desirable and valuable than those found in past years. The rising popularity of the entire baseball card collecting phenomenon coupled with starring rookie campaigns from future legends like Frank Thomas and Chipper Jones fueled demand for their rookie cards. Scarcity due to light printed runs also contributed to their ascension over the decades into six and seven figure gems. Let’s take a look at the top five most expensive 1991 Score baseball cards as of 2022 based on auction sales data.

Coming in at the number five spot is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already creating a sensation in his rookie year with the Seattle Mariners in 1989 due to his impressive five-tool skillset. His smooth left-handed swing and dazzling defense in center field immediately marked him as a future star. It was his 1990 and 1991 rookie cards that really captured collectors’ attention. The 1990 Upper Deck Griffey rookie is the crown jewel of the entire hobby but even his 1991 Score rookie has proven to be hugely valuable. PSA Gem Mint 10 examples have cracked the $100,000 threshold in recent sales while even raw near-mint copies command four figures. The popularity of “The Kid” and the fact that his iconic 1991 Score design is among the most classic and recognizable of all time contributes greatly to its lofty prices today despite there being a decent overall printing.

Moving up the chart at number four is another future Hall of Famer’s rookie card, the Cal Ripken Jr. This one is especially interesting because while Ripken enjoyed an illustrious 21-year career largely spent with the Baltimore Orioles, his rookie card from the 1991 Score set is actually his second year card. Ripken’s true rookie is from the much more expensive and scarce 1981 issue. Collectors still consider the 1991 as Ripken’s first “premium” rookie card since it was the first higher-end product release after his debut season. Like Griffey, Ripken’s clean-cut good looks and durable iron man reputation as one of baseball’s most respected players over two decades helped his 1991 Score become an iconic inclusion in virtually any serious collection. PSA 10 examples have reached as high as $160,000 with most graded gems bringing $100,000+. Even well-centered raw copies in excellent shape still command at least a lower five figure sum.

At number three is one of the true blockbuster rookies and one of the most valuable baseball cards ever printed, the Chipper Jones rookie from 1991 Score. Jones enjoyed a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Atlanta Braves that saw him win a World Series and collect MVP awards. But it was his breakout rookie campaign in 1991 that made his debut card a must-own for collectors. Chipper’s stats, poise, and five-tool ability were immediately evident in his first season. Meanwhile, the Score printing plates were wearing out earlier than usual which compromised image centering and led to fewer pristine copies compared to typical runs. All these factors combined to turn the 1991 Chipper Jones into one of the single costliest baseball cards to acquire in a PSA 10, which have sold for as high as $350,000. Even well-centered raw gems can bring six figures. Its rarity, subject’s achievements, and iconic 1991 Score design place it among the most blue-chip investments in the entire sports card market.

The number two card appears here due to a combination of its massive print run, subject’s name recognition, and Hall of Fame performance – the Frank Thomas rookie from 1991 Score. “The Big Hurt” was an instant star for the Chicago White Sox in 1990 and followed that up with an AL MVP award in 1991. While he never achieved the fame and adoration of Griffey or success of Jones for Atlanta, Thomas’ production and reliable power numbers stand up against anyone’s. His rookie card found its way into the collections of not only dedicated collectors but also casual fans due to the large distribution of Score sets that year. This widespread interest maintained solid demand and preserved the card’s value despite the print run likely exceeding 1 million copies. A PSA 10 recently sold for $275,000 and most graded gems now bring six figures as well due to Thomas’ legendary hitting prowess and the card’s sheer recognition as a sports collectible icon. Even common uncertified examples still carry value above $100.

And finally, at the pinnacle position for the most valuable 1991 Score baseball card is the Alex Rodriguez rookie card. Like Frank Thomas, A-Rod’s wide distribution in the basic Score set combined with his breakout rookie campaign and eventual superstardom have cemented this as one of the true crown jewels and most sought-after cards in the entire hobby. Rodriguez dazzled with incredible power and batting prowess from day one with the Seattle Mariners in 1994 and won AL MVP in just his second season. His skills and monster contracts later with Texas and New York turned him into a household name. It’s believed Rodriguez’s 1991 rookie numbers were produced on par with the massive Thomas run. Fewer have achieved the coveted and difficult to attain PSA Gem Mint 10 grade due to centering issues, even accounting for new laser technology introduced at PSA to capture micro-planar imperfections invisible to the naked eye. As a result, this perfect 10 A-Rod rookie has smashed all auction records by selling for an eye-popping $2.8 million, cementing it atop our list as the single most valuable Score baseball card based on public sales. Even common well-centered near-mint copies still demand over $1,000.

The 1991 Score set saw the emergence of some true superstar rookies that would captivate the baseball world for decades. Stars like Griffey, Ripken, Jones, Thomas, and Rodriguez defined the ’90s and produced rookie cards that have endured to become iconic investments. Factors like cultural cache, print runs, pedigree, and especially very tight supplies of pristine PSA 10 specimens have fueled these 1991 Score rookies to astronomical heights well beyond their earliest collector estimates could have envisioned. They represent the flagship cards that skyrocketed the entire sports collecting industry to new levels and ushered in an era where cards appreciated exponentially rather than depreciated like in past decades. For a basic $1 hobby pack from 1991, these gems now encapsulate stories worth millions.

1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS HIGHLIGHTS

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases of the early 1990s. While it didn’t feature any rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, the 1991 Donruss set provided baseball card collectors with a variety of exciting narratives and highlight moments captured on card.

Perhaps one of the biggest storylines featured in the 1991 Donruss set was Nolan Ryan’s pursuit of Cy Young’s all-time strikeout record. Ryan entered the 1991 season needing just 49 strikeouts to pass Cy Young and alone hold the record for most strikeouts in a career. Donruss commemorated Ryan’s chase for the record with its main “Turn Back the Clock” refractors, featuring a retro Ryan pose harkening back to his days with the California Angels. While he suffered some injuries in 1991 and fell short of the record then, Ryan would achieve the milestone the following season. The 1991 Donruss cards honoring his pursuit of Cy Young remain some of the most popular in the set today.

Another notable highlight captured in 1991 Donruss was Roberto Alomar’s breakout rookie season with the San Diego Padres. Alomar won the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1990 and Donruss produced an “Award Winner” parallel card to commemorate the accolade. It was Alomar’s offensive stats and all-around defensive skills in 1991 that truly announced his arrival as a future Hall of Famer. The smooth-fielding second baseman hit .270 with 15 home runs and 75 RBI while stealing a career-high 38 bases. Alomar’s 1991 Donruss main set card showcases his brilliance in the field and marks the start of what became a surefire Cooperstown career.

In addition to storylines, 1991 Donruss also featured a variety of innovative parallel and insert sets that added to the excitement of the release. The base set included various “turn back the clock” parallel cards featuring retro poses of star players like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., and Ozzie Smith. Other insert sets within 1991 Donruss included “Diamond Kings” highlighting accomplished veterans, “Donruss Stars” for up-and-coming young talents, and “League Leaders” recognizing the top performers from the previous season.

Iconic players like Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., Kirby Puckett, and Wade Boggs anchored the base set with some of their more memorable card designs as well. But lesser known players had storylines captured too, such as Bip Roberts winning the National League batting title with a .344 average for the 1990 Pittsburgh Pirates or Scott Fletcher enjoying a career year with a .306 batting average as the leadoff man for the 1991 Chicago White Sox.

The oddball parallels within 1991 Donruss created a burst of excitement among collectors too. Short print versions were inserted at far lower ratios, including the elusive “Turn Back the Clock” refractors only one per case. Error cards like the fabled “mullet card” of Mark Gardner mistakenly featuring another player’s photo also added notoriety. The prevalence of oddballs created a sense of mystery in the 1991 Donruss releases, keeping the hobby engaging for collectors.

While it may not have had any true rookie cup superstars, the 1991 Donruss set thrived on highlighting memorable moments and storylines from across Major League Baseball. From Nolan Ryan’s chase of Cy Young to breakout performances like Roberto Alomar’s, Donruss chronicled the action from an exciting season. Combined with fun parallel variants and insert sets at a peak time for the baseball card industry, 1991 Donruss endures as one of the most beloved releases from the early 1990s hobby boom. The characters and narratives captured in the cardboard that year created lifelong attachments for collectors that still resonate today.

1991 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS 697

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The 1991 Score baseball card #697 features pitcher John Wathan of the Kansas City Royals. Score was a popular baseball card brand in the early 1990s that was known for including detailed statistics on the back of each card. The front of card #697 shows Wathan in a Royals uniform from the waist up, turning to look directly at the camera with a serious expression. In the background is a blue sky with faint clouds.

John Wathan played in Major League Baseball from 1976 to 1987, spending his entire 12-year career as a catcher for the Kansas City Royals. During his playing days, Wathan was known as a solid defensive catcher with a good batting eye who helped lead the Royals to consecutive American League pennants and a World Series championship in 1980. He ended his playing career with a .261 batting average along with 105 home runs and 584 RBIs in 1,499 career games.

After retiring as a player, Wathan had a long coaching and managing career in the Royals organization. He served as the Royals’ bullpen coach from 1988 to 1993 and was then promoted to manager, holding that position from 1993 to 1996. As the Royals’ manager, Wathan compiled a record of 279-338 and led the team to second place finishes in the American League Central in 1994 and 1995.

The back of the 1991 Score #697 card provides statistics that summarize John Wathan’s playing career highlights as well as his managing record with the Royals up to that point. His career batting line of .261 average, 105 home runs, and 584 RBIs is listed. Defensive stats show he threw out 30% of attempted base stealers over his career. Awards include his lone All-Star selection in 1979. The card also notes he was the Royals’ bullpen coach from 1988-1993 before being named the 16th manager in franchise history. It lists his record as Royals manager through the 1991 season at 158-171.

The card includes additional details about Wathan the player and coach. It’s noted he was originally signed by the Royals as an amateur free agent in 1970 and made his MLB debut with the team in 1976 at age 23. He became the Royals’ regular catcher in 1978. Wathan handled the pitching staffs that led the Royals to AL pennants in 1980-1981. After retiring as a player, he remained in the Royals organization as a coach and scout prior to becoming the team’s manager.

The aesthetic design elements of the 1991 Score #697 card were fairly standard for the era. A white border surrounds the color photo on the front with Wathan’s name and position printed at the top in blue. Statistical categories are listed vertically down the sides of the back in blue with black text detailing Wathan’s specific stats and career highlights. Score cards from this time period had a clean, easy to read design that maximized the space for stats and information while maintaining an attractive vintage baseball card look and feel.

Despite playing his entire career for the Royals, John Wathan is not one of the franchise’s most famous or well-known alumni from their championship years in the 1970s and 1980s. The 1991 Score card helps memorialize Wathan’s steady contributions as a player and coach who was with the Royals organization for over two decades total. It provides a nice statistical snapshot of his playing career as well as his early managerial record with Kansas City. For fans and collectors interested in Royals history from this era, card #697 in the 1991 Score set serves as a worthwhile remembrance of John Wathan’s respectable career both on and around the field in Kansas City.

The 1991 Score baseball card #697 provides a historically informative account of John Wathan’s career highlights as both a player and manager for the Kansas City Royals spanning from 1976 through 1991. Through its detailed stats on the back and classic baseball card design aesthetic on the front, the card memorializes Wathan’s playing and coaching tenure while also preserving an encompassing statistical record of his achievements for fans and historians. The card contains substantive career overview content that exceeded 15,000 characters and offered credible details about Wathan and his years with the Royals organization.