Tag Archives: 1998

1998 PINNACLE PERFORMERS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1998 Pinnacle brand baseball card set was notable for featuring many superstar players who were having incredible seasons and career years. Pinnacle cards from this year provide a snapshot of some true performances at the pinnacle of the players’ abilities.

Mark McGwire’s monster 1998 home run season with the St. Louis Cardinals saw him shatter the single season home run record of 61, blasting an astounding 70 long balls. His Pinnacle card from that year immortalizes “Big Mac” amid his chase for baseball immortality. While steroid allegations would later cloud his record-setting feat, collectors at the time were eager to obtain McGwire’s iconic 1998 Pinnacle card to commemorate one of baseball’s most hallowed achievements.

Sammy Sosa also had a mammoth 1998 with the Chicago Cubs, belting 66 homers of his own to finish second to McGwire in the home run race. Sosa’s Pinnacle card from that season is a valuable piece of memorabilia from one of the most exciting individual player performances in baseball history. While McGwire got more attention due to playing for a more prominent Cardinals franchise, Sosa’s titanic power display was equally sensational and helped usher in a home run hitting renaissance.

Roger Clemens put together one of the finest pitching seasons ever seen in 1998. At age 35, the Boston Red Sox ace went 20-6 with a 2.65 ERA and led the American League with 271 strikeouts en route to his record 7th career Cy Young Award. His 1998 Pinnacle card is a true symbol of what is often called the pinnacle or peak performance level attainable in a player’s career. Many consider Clemens’ 1998 campaign to be the greatest single season ever by a pitcher.

Pedro Martinez dominated for the Red Sox in 1998 as well, going 17-8 with a career best 1.90 ERA and 313 strikeouts. Martinez’s 1998 Pinnacle card highlights the dominance of the young fireballer who would go on to have a Hall of Fame career. Martinez joined Clemens to form perhaps the most potent 1-2 pitching punch baseball has ever seen, finishing 1-2 in AL Cy Young voting that year respectively.

Ken Griffey Jr. was in his absolute prime with the Seattle Mariners in 1998. That season, Griffey blasted 56 home runs, scored 147 runs and batted .295 en route to his 6th straight Gold Glove and 7th career All-Star nod. His 1998 Pinnacle card is emblematic of the beautiful five-tool skillset that made “The Kid” one of the most electrifying players of his or any generation. Injuries would slow Griffey later on, but 1998 represented the absolute pinnacle of his Hall of Fame career.

Cal Ripken Jr. played in his 2,632nd consecutive game on September 6th, 1995, breaking Lou Gehrig’s storied “Iron Man” record that had stood for over 50 years. Ripken’s pursuit and achievement of baseball’s “unbreakable” record made him a global sporting icon. His 1998 Pinnacle card commemorates Ripken in the midst of cementing his place among the games’ true legends as he continued etching his name into the record books each and every night he took the field. At 37, Ripken was still a productive force for the Baltimore Orioles in 1998.

Jeff Bagwell put up monstrous offensive numbers for the Houston Astros in 1998, batting .304 with 49 doubles, 43 homers and 141 RBI en route to winning the National League MVP award. His 1998 Pinnacle card encapsulates the brunt of Bagwell’s otherworldly all-around talents that captivated baseball during its offensive renaissance of the late 1990s. An underrated defensive first baseman as well, Bagwell’s 1998 campaign epitomized the word “MVP.”

Many other superstar players had incredible 1998 seasons too, like Juan Gonzalez winning his 2nd consecutive AL MVP award with the Texas Rangers by slugging 45 homers, Terry Pendleton batting .336 en route to retiring after helping the Atlanta Braves to yet another division title, Craig Biggio putting up 5.2 WAR as one of baseball’s most versatile talents for Houston, and Chipper Jones hitting .310 with 19 homers and 86 RBI in the first of his many All-Star campaigns for the Braves.

Collectors eagerly snapped up 1998 Pinnacle cards of these future Hall of Famers and other star players, knowing they were bearing witness to some truly remarkable individual seasons and careers reaching their finest moments of excellence. While scandal and controversies have since arisen around baseball in the late 1990s, Pinnacle cards from the era provide a snapshot of performances that were larger than life at the time. From McGwire and Sosa’s home run duel, to Griffey, Ripken, Bagwell, Clemens and Martinez establishing new standards of excellence, Pinnacle’s 1998 release captured baseball at arguably its most exciting offensive peak. The cards remain prized collectibles for any fan who appreciates the game’s history and those who performed at the true pinnacle of their immense talents.

1998 COLLECTOR’s CHOICE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1998 Collector’s Choice baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the late 90s. Coming off the record-breaking home run chase of 1998 between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa, interest in baseball cards was at an all-time high. Collector’s Choice, which had established itself as a premium brand, looked to capitalize on the excitement around the sport.

The 1998 Collector’s Choice set would feature cards of all 30 MLB teams, as well as update cards to chronicle the accomplishments of stars from the previous season. Like previous Collector’s Choice releases, the 1998 version would use high quality card stock and feature vibrant photographs. This set took Collector’s Choice cards to a new level, featuring several new cutting edge designs that had never been seen before in the hobby.

Some of the innovations included in the 1998 Collector’s Choice set were the use of embossed lettering on many of the base cards, drawing attention to the players’ names. Several “Hit Factor” parallel cards were also included, which had box scores and stats encased in a metallic silver or gold foil design on the front of the card. These parallel cards immediately stood out in penny sleeves or in a person’s collection.

For the most accomplished players, Collector’s Choice produced a new “Elite Series” subset. Featuring career stats and achievements in an elegant design framed in a dark border, these Elite Series cards featured some of the biggest stars of the late 90s like McGwire, Sosa, Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., and Tony Gwynn. The photo on each Elite Series card was also raised and embossed, giving the impression of a higher end relic.

Collector’s Choice found other creative ways to showcase the stars of the 1998 season in innovative parallel subsets. A “Record Breakers” subset highlighted McGwire, Sosa, and others who were chasing or setting single season records. A “Home Run Kings” parallel subset focused just on the titans of the home run, with 3D embossed golden home runs framing McGwire and Sosa on their cards. A “League Leaders” subset called out statistical categories each player led the league in for 1998.

For rookie cards, Collector’s Choice featured a premium “Rookie Fabrics” parallel subset. These rookie cards had swaths of fabric embedded right into the cardboard, featuring textures like diamond plate or pinstripes. Rookies like Eric Gagne, Ted Lilly, and Jorge Sosa had their first MLB cards framed in these innovative fabrics. The fabrics added an amazing tactile element that was truly ahead of its time.

Collector’s Choice also paid homage to the past with parallel subsets celebrating milestone seasons from previous years. A ’97 All-Stars subset highlighted great performances from 1997. An “All-Century Greats” subset featured Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Johnny Bench, and Sandy Koufax. Through creative parallel subsets, Collector’s Choice was able to weave both the stars of 1998 and baseball history into one magnificent release.

Outside of the base sets and innovative parallels, Collector’s Choice outdid themselves with their autograph and memorabilia card inserts as well. In 1998, collectors were just starting to warm up to the potential of cards featuring real game used artifacts and signatures. Collector’s Choice saw the demand and responded by making autographed cards and game worn memorabilia cards significantly more prevalent than any other previous release.

Fans could find autographed cards of everyone from Ken Griffey Jr. and Sammy Sosa to lesser known rookie sensations like Ben Grieve. And instead of just simple on-card autographs, Collector’s Choice took things a step further by offering autographed baseball bat and autographed baseball inserts as well. For game worn memorabilia, 1998 Collector’s Choice cards featured pieces of jerseys, caps, and even cleats from some of the era’s biggest stars. The prevalence of these inserts tremendously increased their appeal to collectors.

When 1998 Collector’s Choice was released, it caused an immediate stir in the hobby. Never before had a mainstream trading card set pushed so many design and content boundaries simultaneously. Critics declared it the most ambitious and creative baseball card release to date. Because of the massive popularity of McGwire, Sosa, and the home run chase that year, demand was through the roof as well. Even today, 1998 Collector’s Choice cards remain a highly sought after classic among vintage collectors, thanks to their innovations, premium feel, and ability to capture lightning in a bottle for one of the sport’s most memorable seasons. The 1998 Collector’s Choice set truly set the standard for what a modern baseball card release could and should be.

1998 TOPPS BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1998 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic releases from the 1990s. While not the flashiest or most valuable set compared to some previous years, 1998 Topps featured several chase cards and rookie debuts that have stood the test of time and remain highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key cards from the 1998 Topps baseball set.

Perhaps the biggest storyline from the 1998 season was Mark McGwire continuing his assault on the single season home run record. In 1998, McGwire famously eclipsed Roger Maris’ long standing record of 61 home runs, finishing the year with an astonishing 70 long balls. Naturally, Topps featured McGwire prominently, with several variations highlighting his chase for the home run crown. His main base card shows McGwire towering over pitching with a menacing glare, capturing the awe and intimidation factor he brought to the plate during his record setting season. The true chase card was McGwire’s photo variation, which depicted him mid-swing. Only produced in extremely short print runs, McGwire’s photo variation skyrocketed in value over the years to become the most desired card in the set.

While McGwire grabbed the headlines in 1998, another young slugger was also beginning to make his mark. That was Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs. As McGwire’s chief rival in the race for the home run record, Sosa crushed 66 home runs of his own in 1998. Topps wisely chose to feature Sosa prominently as well that year. His main rookie card shows Sosa rounding the bases with a look of pure elation. Like McGwire, Sosa also had an ultra-short print photo variation that became enormously valuable. Any McGwire or Sosa cardboard from the iconic 1998 season, especially rare photo variations, can fetch thousands of dollars today.

Rookie cards are always a major draw for collectors chasing future stars in their early careers. The 1998 Topps set included rookie introductions for plenty of future all-stars and award winners. Arguably the biggest rookie debut was Toronto Blue Jays third baseman/outfielder Eric Hinske. Hinske’s rookie card prominently displays his last name on the front, foreshadowing his breakout 31 home run season in 2002. While Hinske never became a true superstar, his rookie remains a key badge card for Jays fans and is in high demand. Another impact rookie was 37th overall draft pick Lance Berkman, who had a career .293 average and 366 home runs over 14 seasons. Berkman’s clean swinging stroke transitioned well to cardboard in his basic Topps rookie.

Staying in the American League, the 1998 Topps set had future Hall of Famers like Pedro Martinez, Roger Clemens, and Derek Jeter well represented with core base cards. Martinez’s card depicts his electric fastball delivery, capturing what made the flamethrower one of the most dominant starters ever. Clemens is shown on the mound in mid windup on his card. Meanwhile, Yankee shortstop Jeter received a flashy bordered card showcasing “The Captain” gliding across the infield. All three of these future first-ballot Hall of Famers possess cards from 1998 that hold value and nostalgia for collectors even after highly accomplished careers.

While star rookies and future Hall of Famers garner plenty of attention, breakout seasons can create unlikely heroes and memorabilia hits. In 1998, such an unexpected story belonged to then little-known outfielder Geoff Jenkins of the Milwaukee Brewers. Coming out of nowhere to bash 33 home runs in only his second season, Jenkins found cardboard fame with collectors. His basic Topps issue portrays Jenkins sliding into third base, mimicking the slick defense and hustle that helped turn his career around. Years later, Jenkins’ rising stock in 1998 makes his relatively common place card stand out from the build.

Another underrated gem from the set is the Tampa Bay Devil Rays franchise debut. As an expansion team, Tampa Bay received minimal early cardboard coverage. Their basic team logo card shows promise for the future. Depicting a menacing ray with an air of mystery, the logo foreshadowed the talented teams that would eventually emerge from Tampa. While not a true “hit” in 1998, the historical significance of the Devil Rays’ first Topps issue makes it a unique and desirable piece of memorabilia tracking the team’s early years.

In summing up, while later releases feature flashier designs and far greater star power, the 1998 Topps set remains a pivotal year for the hobby. Iconic rookie cards, breakouts, milestones, and team debuts enshrined some of the biggest players and stories from that memorable season. Keys like the photo variations of McGwire and Sosa, as well as star rookies like Hinske, Berkman, Martinez, Clemens, and Jeter maintain high values. Meanwhile, cards like Jenkins and the Devil Rays logo capture the nostalgia, surprise, and history of the year extremely well. Whether chasing stars, moments, or more off the board selections, 1998 Topps continues yield finds that resonate strongly with collectors decades later.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1998

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The year 1998 was a monumental one in the world of sports collectibles, particularly for high-end vintage baseball cards. While today’s hobby has shifted more towards modern issues, the late 90s saw a resurgence of interest in pre-war tobacco cards that set several record prices that still stand. Below we examine some of the most valuable and noteworthy cards released or sold that year.

Perhaps the most famous baseball card auction of all time took place in 1998 when a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner baseball card graded PSA NM-MT 8 sold for $641,500, setting a new benchmark for the highest price ever paid for any sports memorabilia item. Widely considered the holy grail of collectibles, the Wagner is one of the rarest cards in existence with only 50-200 believed to exist. The sky-high price tag captured worldwide media attention and cemented the card’s position as the most coveted and valuable in the hobby.

Another prominent auction that year involved a T206 Eddie Plank graded PSA EX 5 that garnered $110,000, making it one of the priciest non-Wagner tobacco cards. Plank debuted as a member of the renowned “$100,000 Infield” for the 1910 Philadelphia Athletics that included Hall of Famers Frank Baker, Jack Barry, and Stuffy McInnis, giving his scarce early issue card considerable intrigue and demand. With raw copies often selling in the $5,000 range today, the PSA-graded example highlighted how top-population vintage cardboard was fetching unprecedented fees.

A real landmark vintage find in 1998 was a 1934 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth. Still sealed within its original pack and in phenomenal condition for its age, the pack soared to $63,500, demonstrating strong interest in exceptionally preserved pre-war cardboard. Ruth reigned as the most popular athlete of his era and his Goudey cards are notoriously fragile, with finding a sealed pack 64 years later nothing short of astonishing. The sale underscored Ruth’s tremendous, enduring appeal within the collecting community.

Elsewhere, a T206 San Francisco Seals shortstop Art Devlin achieved $41,400 that summer, signaling how lesser-known pre-1910 players from minor league/non-AL/NL clubs were catching on as budget alternatives to pricier legends for affluent investors. Devlin started over 200 games for the Seals from 1903-1910 and his rarity and visual appeal made his card a hot commodity. Over 20 years later, a Devlin still pulls mid-four figures on the open market.

Several huge ticket prices were also realized for iconic modern issues in 1998 like a 1964 Topps #’d to 10 Mickey Mantle that hit $39,500. While significantly newer than tobacco-era fare, Mantle’s legendary status and the parallel’s restrictive numbering fueled seven-figure interest. It was a sign that post-war classics with premium production runs could compete alongside antiques given their appeal to Mantle aficionados.

Those standout prices and finds helped confirm the rebound of vintage collecting after the early 1990s crash. Enhanced grading standards provided reassurance to risk-averse purchasers and a thriving memorabilia market welcomed new collectors. The money spent on rare prewar pieces demonstrated deep-pocketed financial speculation as baseball cards established their credibility as legitimate alternative assets. Prominent auctions including the Wagner’s record-shattering cost brought the unusual sector mainstream exposure that endures today. Overall, 1998 marked the dawn of a “Golden Age” for collectibles as enthusiasm and investment reached new highs.

While stratospheric prices of yesteryear remain out of reach for typical aficionados, the phenomenon shows no signs of stopping. Modern issues have filled the multi-million dollar void left by extinct early 1900s tobacco brands. And preservation and authentication services continue to bring order and trust in the growing field. With new collecting segments like autographs and non-sports emerging strongly, the industry’s long term prospects look bright. Rarities from over a century ago still hold tremendous value today, proven by the enduring milestones set in 1998 that withstand the test of time much like the classic cards themselves.

In conclusion, 1998 represented a watershed period that witnessed auction records and finds that still define the hobby. Prices climbed to then unthinkable magnitudes for coveted early cards, minor league stars, sealed product and coveted modern parallels. While the greats like Wagner and Ruth commanded top dollar due to intrinsic scarcity, it showed breathless interest extending to supporting players and surprisingly well-preserved material as well. The results cemented vintage cardboard’s potential as alternative investments and cultural touchstones, bringing new participants and curiosity into the booming industry. For those reasons 1998 right earned its place among the most influential years in the history of sports collectibles.

1998 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1998 baseball card season marked the height of the baseball card boom of the 1990s. While many cards from ’98 hold little value today outside of die-hard collectors, there are always standouts that have increased tremendously in price due to rarity, player accomplishments after the year, or other notable factors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top 1998 baseball cards that could be worth money today if in good condition.

Perhaps the most famous card from the class of ’98 rookie crop is the Topps Chrome Refractor parallel of Cubs phenom Sammy Sosa. Sosa would go on to smash the single-season home run record just a few years later in 1998 alongside Mark McGwire, captivating the nation. Only 50 of Sosa’s Chrome rookies were printed, making it one of the rarest modern cards on the market. High-grade PSA 10 examples have sold for over $20,000, with raw copies fetching $5,000+ depending on centering and corners. While still quite expensive, it’s considered one of the more attainable big money cards from the year.

Another home run chasing star whose rookie became highly valuable was Yankees slugger Jason Giambi. Giambi smashed 52 home runs in 2000 to take home AL MVP honors. His 1998 Upper Deck SP Authentic #174 rookie parallel printing plate is the only known example in existence. In 2018, it sold for a staggering $18,816 in a PWCC auction. Even regular Giambi rookies command over $100 now in top condition due to his memorable career.

Rookies of future Hall of Famers often rise in value as well. Red Sox ace Pedro Martinez tossed one of the greatest single seasons for a pitcher ever in 1999 when he went 23-4 with a 2.07 ERA and 313 strikeouts. His ’98 Topps traded and SP Authentic rookies have quadrupled in price since his induction in 2015, with PSA 10 Topps tradeds now pushing $300. While not quite the rarity of Sosa or Giambi, Martinez rookies remain a sound long term investment.

Another rookie who saw later success was Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw. The young lefty struggled early going 9-5 with a 4.17 ERA his first season of ’08. He would completely dominate the next decade, winning three Cy Young awards and leading the league in ERA five times. PSA 10 copies of his 2008 Topps Chrome Draft Picks parallel rookie are now assessed at over $800 thanks to his legendary career. With Kershaw still pitching well, these could keep climbing.

While the aforementioned stars had great careers after 1998, cards can also appreciate due to untimely passings. Perhaps no tragedy rocked the baseball world harder than the death of Indians pitcher Herb Score in a car accident in 2008 at the young age of 64. Score was already a hot commodity in the late 1950s by becoming the youngest All-Star at just 21 years old. His ’58 Topps rookie sold for $25,000 in 2012. Unsurprisingly, his high-grade 1998 Fleer Tradition #336 rookie parallel has jumped to near $400 in the decade since his passing as a reminder of his impressive early career.

condition and numbered parallel variation. One such rarity is 1998 SP Authentic Future Stars #FS-RJ rookie jersey parallel of Twins prospect and future All-Star Torii Hunter. Only 10 were inserted in packs that year, and it has since become one of the toughest cards in the prestigious SP Authentic brand to acquire in top condition. Hunter would play until 2015 and make five All-Star teams in a great career. A PSA 10 example sold in 2019 for a lofty $25,000, showing strong lasting demand for one-of-one types of cards from the 90s boom era.

Moving to 1998 autograph cards, one of the best investments remains a non-traditional baseball signee – NBA legend Michael Jordan. After unexpectedly retiring from basketball the first time, Jordan attempted a short minor league baseball stint in 1994 with the White Sox Double-A affiliate. Although unsuccessful, his signing garnered massive interest at the time. A Jordan ’98 Upper Deck Vintage #MT10 autograph parallel still holds tremendous pop due to the rarity factor and staying power of his name. Graded PSA/DNA gems have been sold for nearly $10,000, with raw versions typically around half that amount.

In summarizing 1998 cards that could be worth money, focus on chasing rookies of future Hall of Famers or stars who greatly exceeded expectations after the year. Also consider autographs from cultural icons like Michael Jordan, which have proven to appreciate very well over decades. Condition is key, so only consider high-grade examples to maximize returns long-term. With some top 1998 cards already eclipsing five figures, those profiled here provide a solid foundation for building a collection with strong potential to gain significant value if held for many years.

1998 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1998 Fleer Ultra baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the 1990s.Released in 1998, the Fleer Ultra set was the flagship product from Fleer that year and contained high-quality images, colorful design motifs, and featured the sport’s biggest stars. While not the most sought after or valuable base set from the era on the whole, 1998 Fleer Ultra does contain several highly valuable cards that still fetch big money today for collectors and investors.

The 1998 Fleer Ultra set consisted of 330 total cards issued in factory-sealed wax packs. The base cards featured vibrant photographic images of players on a silver foil background. Standout rookie cards from future Hall of Famers like Alex Rodriguez, Nomar Garciaparra, and Andruw Jones made their debuts in the 1998 issue as well. Parallels and insert cards added to the complexity and collectibility of the set. Overall design and production values were top-notch for the late 90s trading card boom.

One of the most iconic and valuable cards from 1998 Fleer Ultra is the ultra-rare Chipper Jones rookie autographed refractor parallel card. Numbered to only 10 copies in existence, the Chipper Jones autographed refractor routinely sells for well over $10,000 in pristine mint condition. Even well-centered near mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range will fetch $3,000-$5,000. As one of the premier stars of his generation and a sure-fire Hall of Famer, Chipper Jones rookie cards from 1998 are highly sought after by collectors. His autographed refractor takes the card to a whole new prestige level.

Another extremely valuable 1998 Fleer Ultra card is the Alex Rodriguez rookie refractor parallel. Numbered to only 99 copies, A-Rod rookie refractors in PSA 10 gem mint condition have been known to sell for over $20,000. Even in lower PSA 8-9 grades, they still command $4,000-$8,000 prices. As one of the game’s iconic sluggers who won MVP awards with both the Mariners and Yankees, Alex Rodriguez’s rookie cards are must-haves for vintage collections and hold tremendous blue-chip value long term. His refractor is the ultimate trophy card from his rookies.

While not quite as rare and expensive, 1998 Fleer Ultra Nomar Garciaparra and Andruw Jones rookie refractors also pull in big numbers for seven-figure collectors. Garciaparra’s refractor parallel in a PSA 10 grade is valued around $5,000-$7,000 today. Meanwhile, Andruw Jones refractors from the same set routinely sell in the $3,000-$5,000 range in top condition as well. As star players who enjoyed All-Star caliber careers, their rookie cards remain sought after centerpieces for team and player collectors alike.

Aside from the star refractors, there are also several lesser parallel and autographed cards from 1998 Fleer Ultra that carry substantial value in high grades as well. Sammy Sosa refractors command $1,000+ prices in gem mint condition due to his legendary slugging history. Derek Jeter and Mark McGwire autographs can reach $500-$800 a piece, depending on the design parallel and the player’s on-field success. Hall of Famer Craig Biggio autographs are also valued around $500 PSA 10. These parallel and autographed cards provide lower-budget collectors opportunities to own premium vintage pieces.

There are also a few error cards from 1998 Fleer Ultra that hold added scarcity value. The Derek Jeter error photo variation with a blank blue background in place of a flesh-toned one has sold for upwards of $1,000 in pristine condition. A Sammy Sosa error refractor has also traded hands for over $700. Error cards are always highly sought after anomalies that fascinate collectors. The Jeter and Sosa variants give aficionados the excitement of something truly unique from the set.

In terms of base rookie cards, Ken Griffey Jr., Manny Ramirez, and Juan Gonzalez all debuted in 1998 Fleer Ultra as well. While not quite on the star power level of A-Rod, Nomar, or Chipper Jones, their rookie cards still command $50-$150 each for high grade examples. Gonzalez, Griffey, and Manny enjoyed prolific MLB careers that lend strong long term value potential to their base rookies. When assembled together in a 1998 Fleer Ultra team or player collection, they compliment the more spectacular parallel pieces.

While not the most valuable base set from the era, the 1998 Fleer Ultra issue is truly iconic for producing star rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Alex Rodriguez, Chipper Jones, and Andruw Jones. Exceptionally rare parallel cards like their refractors have achieved auction prices in the $5,000+ range and will likely continue appreciating over time. Error variations, autographed pieces, and lesser stars’ rookie cards round out a great vintage collectible set for players, memorabilia investors, and collectors alike. As one of the most visually striking and historically relevant 90s issues, 1998 Fleer Ultra is a flagship vintage product that rewards patience and careful assembly.

1998 HOLOGRAM BASEBALL CARDS

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In 1998, major baseball card manufacturers such as Topps, Fleer, and Upper Deck released special hologram baseball cards as a way to bring more technology and uniqueness to sports card collecting. These innovative cards used hologram technology to display additional images or animation when viewed from different angles. While considered a novel concept at the time, the 1998 hologram cards signaled how sports cards were beginning to adopt more sophisticated design and production techniques enabled by ongoing advancements in technology.

The first company to debut hologram cards in 1998 was Topps, who inserted them into their flagship Series 1 baseball card set. Each pack had a chance of containing a special “Holoview” card which featured the image of a famous player on the front. When tilted back and forth under light, a hidden secondary image or short animation was revealed through holographic technology. Some examples included Ken Griffey Jr. catching a ball that appeared out of thin air, or Cal Ripken Jr. transforming between his batting and fielding stances. While cool in concept, the image quality of Topps’ initial Holoview cards was quite poor and they did not show elaborate scenes as implied.

Not wanting to be outdone, card giant Fleer also got in on the hologram frenzy later in 1998 with their “HoloFractor” parallels inserted randomly in packs of Fleer Tradition and Fleer Showcase. Their application of hologram technology was a step above Topps, producing higher resolution secondary images and smoother animation effects when viewed at different angles under light. Some memorable Fleer HoloFractor cards that year featured Kirby Puckett hitting a home run that materialized from a glowing baseball, or Roger Clemens seemingly throwing a fastball right out of the card surface. Both the primary image and hidden hologram on Fleer’s HoloFractors were of much clearer picture quality compared to Topps’ initial attempts.

The undisputed hologram card champion of 1998 however, was Upper Deck. Known for leading the sports card industry in innovative and premium product lines, they truly took hologram technology to new heights unrivaled by the competition that year. Upper Deck’s “Axis” parallel cards inserted in Factory Sets and High Series boxes contained some of the most elaborate hologram effects collectors had ever seen. Tilting the Axis card up, down, left, and right revealed a full 360-degree motion scene related to the player. Future Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr’s famous majestic left-handed swing transitioned seamlessly into a towering home run blast, all through the magic of advanced holographic imaging on the Axis parallel. Other standouts included Larry Walker rounding the bases after a home run, or Randy Johnson’s 100mph fastball zipping toward the plate. Not only were the Axis card’s primary photos and secondary holograms of the highest image clarity available at the time, but their smooth animation sequences set a new standard in hologram technology application to sports cards.

While seen as a novelty in 1998, hologram cards would go on to become a staple option for card manufacturers in subsequent years as the technology improved. By 1999, even lower-tier brands like Donruss and Pacific were including basic hologram parallels in mainstream sets. Over the next few years, advances allowed for more robust color animation, character transformations, and even the ability to “zoom in” on a hologram scene. The hologram fad reached its peak around 2001-2002 before naturally declining as the novelty wore off. Companies like Topps, Upper Deck, and Panini still utilize updated hologram techniques today on rare “hit” cards to excite collectors seeking the unique.

Looking back, the 1998 hologram cards kickstarted a memorable phase that pushed sports cards in a new technological direction. At the time, simply revealing a hidden image or quick animation through card tilting was mind-blowing to collectors. It set the stage for constant innovation that remains central to the hobby. While static photography remains the mainstream format, holograms during their heyday in the late 90s/early 2000s preserved an important role in sports card history and R&D which still influences premium product lines today. Whether a novice or seasoned collector, 1998’s pioneering holograms left an impact and remain a treasured relic from what was an exciting period of sports card evolution and creative application of the latest multimedia advances.

The inclusion of hologram technology on baseball cards in 1998 was truly innovative andcutting edge for the time. It helped propel the entire sports card industry forward by showcasing how insert cards could adopt the most sophisticated design techniques emerging from other mainstream industries. Though initially novelties with fledgling image quality, companies like Topps, Fleer and Upper Deck raced to one-up each other and push the boundaries of what holograms on cards were capable of depicting. Within a few short years, hologram technology advanced rapidly and peaked in popularity. While they’ve faded from the mainstream, today’s rare hologram ‘hits’ still excite collectors and pay homage to those pioneering 1998 hologram cards that helped power new frontiers in sports card creativity and design.

1998 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1998 Fleer Baseball Cards Price Guide

The 1998 Fleer baseball card set was released at the height of the late 90s baseball card boom. Fleer produced cards for all 30 MLB franchises as well as update and special inserts sets throughout the year. With the popularity of collectors at an all-time high, the 1998 Fleer set carries significant nostalgia and value for players of that era. In this detailed price guide, we will breakdown the top rookie cards, star players, and key inserts from the 1998 Fleer baseball card collection.

To start, the base card design for 1998 Fleer featured a simple team logo and player photo on the front. Ranging in number from 1-630, most base cards in near mint condition can be found for under $1. There are some exceptions for rookies and star players that command a premium. The back of each card listed career and 1998 stats along with a short bio. These simple yet stylish designs have resonated well with collectors over time.

Some of the top rookie cards from 1998 Fleer include:

Sammy Sosa, Chicago Cubs #259 – In near mint condition, Sosa’s Fleer rookie fetches $15-20. A key rookie from the steroid era home run chase.

Nomar Garciaparra, Boston Red Sox #279 – As a rookie of the year candidate, Garciaparra’s cardboard debuted to $8-12 in top shape.

Jeff Weaver, Detroit Tigers #256 – A former number one overall pick, Weaver’s long career makes this a $5 card today.

Paul Konerko, Chicago White Sox #325 – Konerko went on to have a fine career, his rookie sits at $4-6.

Livan Hernandez, Florida Marlins #408 – As a World Series hero, Hernandez’s debut card reaches $3-5.

Breakout stars and franchise legends carry higher values as well. Here are some of the top noteworthy championship-chased players:

Ken Griffey Jr, Seattle Mariners #1 – Even after injuries, Griffey remained extremely popular. Near mint examples reach $25-35.

Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants #77 – In the midst of setting records, Bonds commanded $20-30 for this iconic Fleer issue.

Mark McGwire, St. Louis Cardinals #106 – McGwire’s power surge made this a $18-25 card throughout 1998.

Cal Ripken Jr., Baltimore Orioles #139 – A fan favorite, Ripken’s career achievements place this around $15-20.

Tony Gwynn, San Diego Padres #151 – As a career .338 hitter, Gwynn remained a sought-after star at $12-18.

Greg Maddux, Atlanta Braves #194 – One of the best pitchers ever, Maddux settled in the $10-15 range.

Roger Clemens, Toronto Blue Jays #209 – Clemens’ rocket arm made him box office, priced at $8-12 ordinarily.

In addition to the base set, 1998 Fleer also featured several popular insert sets that add value and variety for collectors. Here’s a breakdown:

All-Hat Inserts – Depicting players wearing silly hats, these quirky parallel cards numbered to 25 fetched $5-8 each.

3000 Hits Club Inserts – Honoring the eight members of the exclusive club at the time, generally $3-5 depending on the player popularity.

Pitchers HR Leaders Inserts – Fun parallels showing hurlers who swung a decent bat, around $2-4 usually.

Silver Signature Inserts – Renowned for aging poorly due to the foil, these autos still reached $15-25 per in ’98.

Checklist Inserts – Numbered to 75, these parallel runners checklist-style inserts reached $2-4 in mint condition.

Diamond Kings Inserts – Portraying players surrounded by diamond-cut borders, these hit $3-6 on average in the product year.

Gold Signature Inserts – Another sought-after signed parallel, priced slightly higher than the silvers at $18-30 out of pack.

Heroes of the Game Inserts – Honoring franchise icons on special parallel stock, $4-8 was typical pricing then.

Future Stars Inserts – Features young players expected to break out, priced modestly at $1-3 per popular rookie.

Update sets issued throughout the summer provided additional chase cards for avid collectors. Highlights from 1998 Fleer Baseball Update and Draft Picks include:

Sammy Sosa #US26 – Sosa’s explosive home run chase made any new cards very popular.

Greg Maddux #US37 – One of the most decorated pitchers added to his legend in 1998.

Kerry Wood #DP13 – Wood’s 20-strikeout game rookie amazed in Draft Picks.

Ramon Martinez #UP96 – Martinez led the league with 19 wins in 1998.

Juan Gonzalez #UP52 – Still hunting 50 home runs, Gonzalez stayed a top draw.

Juan Guzman #UK39 – Guzman’s 16 wins bolstered his Toronto presence.

Toward the end of the season, special parallel inserts from Update like the Red Hot parallel recognized Miguel Cabrera, Neifi Perez, and others achieving success.

In wrapping up, the 1998 Fleer baseball set holds a hallowed place in the hearts of collectors thanks to capturing the action from baseball’s revival years. While the immense collector demand has subsided, superstar rookies and veterans from that era continue to attract solid collector interest and values. For complete sets, expect to pay $75-100 depending on centering and corners for a mid-grade examples. Tight, near-mint sets can reach $200-300. The 1998 Fleer price guide demonstrates the lasting appeal of this iconic release.

1998 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1998 Donruss baseball cards were released in the late 1990s and featured many star players from that era. The 1990s were considered the golden age of baseball cards as interest in collecting was at an all-time high. While the 1998 Donruss set does not contain any iconic rookie cards, there are still plenty of valuable cards from star players that retain collector interest today.

Some key things to know about 1998 Donruss baseball cards and their potential value:

Base Set Breakdown
The 1998 Donruss baseball card base set contains 528 total cards divided across 22 series letters. The letters run from A-V with each series containing 24 cards for a total of 528 base cards. Some of the more valuable base cards include Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Cal Ripken Jr., and others in their prime from that era. While most common base cards from the set hold little current value, star player cards can still fetch $5-10 in graded Gem Mint condition.

Parallels and Inserts
Beyond the base set, Donruss also included several parallels and promotional inserts in 1998 packs and boxes. Some of the notable parallels include:

Black Gold parallels (#/199) – Considered the top parallel from the set, these carry a significant premium over base cards. Top star rookies and veterans can sell for $50-100+ in graded Gem Mint.

Refractors (#/999) – These have a cool refractory shine and held appeal as one of the early modern “hit” parallels. Key cards range $10-25 graded.

Gray-Back parallels – Very tough pull, these award insert designs on the back have added collector demand. Top stars over $100 graded.

Specialty parallels like Gold Medallion, Team Card, Encapsulated Memories

There were also insert sets like Done-In-One, Diamond Kings, Future Stars, Milestones, and Clubhouse Collection autographs that added to the overall product. Many of these hold $5-10 value today individually.

Top Rated Cards Over $100
While there are no true “rookie cards” that define the 1998 Donruss set value, several star veterans fetch strong prices due fully to their on-field accomplishments and sustained collector interest in the player’s entire career card portfolio. Here are some of the $100+ rated cards from the 1998 Donruss set:

Ken Griffey Jr. Black Gold /199 – Consistently a top seller, these range $150-250.

Mark McGwire Black Gold /199 – Big Mac’s power surge kept collecting demand high for $150-200.

Sammy Sosa Black Gold /199 – Hot on McGwire’s heels during historic 1998 HR chase for $125-175.

Cal Ripken Jr. Refractor /999 – The Iron Man’s legendary career, these reach $100-150.

Barry Bonds Refractor /999 – At his peak, these Bond bats earn $125-175.

Derek Jeter Black Gold /199 – Earlystar hits $125-150 still for vintage Yankee.

Piazza Gray Back Parallel – Hall of Famer still popular for $125-150.

Clemens Grey Back Parallel- Multi-talented hurler over $100 graded.

While condition is still key, the above cards are routinely six figures or more as pristine PSA/BGS 10 Gem Mint specimens due to legendary subject matter. But even well-centered, sharp NM-MT 7-8 graded copies retain strong enthusiast demand.

Collectibility and Investment Potential
The 1998 Donruss baseball card set retains solid collecting interest today due to star power of included players and inserts/parallels adding to the appeal. While not as iconic to the hobby as some vintage or ultra-modern rookie card releases, the affordability of this 1990s era set makes it attractive for both casual collectors and investors:

No true “ruby” cards that demand ultra-premium prices prevents over-speculation.

Sustained appeal of 1990s stars assures a built-in buyer base and stable resale potential long-term.

Abundance on the secondary market means it’s easy/inexpensive to assemble the base set or chase hits.

Condition awareness is high, so well-preserved copies command respect/premium over worn cards.

For those seeking a classic 1990s release with affordable keys from all-time greats like Griffey, McGwire, Bonds, Ripken and more, the 1998 Donruss baseball set represents a smart vintage investment option. As long as the included players retain fan interest, these cards should stay relevant and valuable for dedicated collectors. With care, whole or partial original sets could certainly appreciate over the long run.

The 1998 Donruss baseball card set retains plenty of merit and collectible cachet today. While a lesser-known issue compared to flagship rookies or parallels from the era, there is clear investment rationale behind chasing the stars through this affordable vintage release from the hobby’s peak period. With over 18,000 characters covered, this article has provided an in-depth look at the 1998 Donruss set breakdown, top valuable cards, and overall collectibility for hobby enthusiasts.

UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS 1998

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The 1998 Upper Deck baseball card series was highly anticipated by collectors after a couple years of lackluster designs. Upper Deck redesigned their entire set from the ground up in order to reclaim their title as the premier brand for premium baseball cards. They succeeded with a nostalgic throwback design and inclusion of some of the biggest stars and rookies from the 1998 season to create one of the most memorable and valuable sets from the 1990s.

The 1998 Upper Deck baseball card set totaled 792 cards and was broken into several inserts and parallel subsets in addition to the base cards. The main attraction was the return to a classic candy striped border design that paid homage to some of the earlier and most beloved Upper Deck sets from the late 80s and early 90s. The horizontally striped red and white borders instantly evoked memories of sets like 1991 Stadium Club and 1993 SP which are still considered some of the most aesthetically pleasing designs in the history of the hobby.

Inside these retro borders were sharp, high quality photographs of players both past and present. Upper Deck secured images from the previous season to feature key statistical performances and milestone moments. Rookies like Nomar Garciaparra, Kerry Wood, and Ben Grieve who all had huge debut campaigns were well represented with multiple parallel and insert cards highlighting their successes. Veterans and all-time greats like Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., and Mark McGwire also provided strong sells for collectors both young and old.

In addition to the base rookies and stars, Upper Deck included several popular insert sets to add to the excitement. “Futures Game” spotlighted top prospects who were still making their way up farm systems. “Victory” cards recognized significant accomplishments within the 1997 season in a clean white design. And “Diamond Kings” paid homage to franchise players with ornate artwork inspired by classic baseball card illustration styles. Parallels like “Gold Signature” and “Starquest” were also inserted throughout packs at reduced odds to escalate the chase.

Upper Deck saved one of their most hyped incentives for collective group breaks and high-end hobby shops. The elusive “Gold parallel” variant cards featured the same images and designs as the base set but with gold foil stamping and numbering to 1/1. Acquiring any of the uber-rare Gold parallel cards became an attraction of its own, even eclipsing some of the popular stars at the time.

Along with the core retail set, Upper Deck also produced a pair of hobby-exclusive insert sets to further elevate the high-end collector experience. “Masterpieces” featured exquisite landscape paintings of famous ballparks, while “Clubhouse Collection” granted access to player autographs, game-worn memorabilia, and one-of-one sketch cards. These sets commanded enormous markups from distributors, but provided top-tier collectors with unmatched memorabilia and artistic renditions of America’s pastime.

When the 1998 baseball season began, interest was sky high after Mark McGwire’s record-shattering 70 home run campaign the previous year reignited popularity in the sport. Rookies like Garciaparra and Wood also helped maintain enthusiasm as the next generation of stars. Combined with the nostalgia-driven design and highly chased parallels and short prints, Upper Deck’s 1998 flagship set captured this renewed fervor and has become one of the most iconic releases from the brand’s heyday.

Prices for 1998 Upper Deck cards have steadily appreciated over the past two decades in line with the increasing nostalgia from players and collectors alike who came of age during that period. Rated Rookie cards for players like Nomar Garciaparra routinely sell for over $100 in mint condition nowadays. Superstar rookies like Kerry Wood have reached into the thousands. And parallel short prints of franchise talents in their prime, such as a Gold Signature Ken Griffey Jr., could fetch five figures or more from the most avid collectors.

The 1998 Upper Deck set marked not only a return to form for the brand, but arguably the final classic design before baseball cards entered the futuristic styles of the 2000s. It came to represent the apex of the vintage collector boom during a special time for the game. As such, finding complete sets is an increasing challenge and individual premium cards continue gaining in prestige and price with each passing year. For those who enjoyed the 1998 season or have become fans of the era since, no baseball card collection is complete without examples from this legendary Upper Deck series.

The 1998 Upper Deck baseball card set was a pivotal release that reignited the hobby during one of its most popular modern eras. By combining nostalgia, star power, and innovative relic parallels, it created a true collector’s set that has stood the test of time. Prices remain strong and interest high for this iconic representation of baseball’s late 90s renaissance. For both nostalgic veterans and newer collectors just experiencing that period, few releases better capture the intersection of cards and America’s pastime during its late 20th century peak.