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DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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Donruss baseball cards have been a staple in the baseball card industry since 1981. While not as popular as Topps or Fleer cards during the heyday of the 1980s and 90s, Donruss cards still hold value for collectors and investors due to the memorable designs and inclusion of star players. This article will provide an in-depth overview of Donruss baseball card prices for various years, sets, and notable players.

One of the most iconic early Donruss sets is the 1981 Donruss baseball card set. These were the company’s inaugural baseball cards released during the dawn of the modern baseball card era. The designs featured bold colors and action shots of players. Rosters included many future Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan and George Brett who were early in their careers. Complete 1981 Donruss sets in near mint to mint condition can fetch $200-300. Individual high-grade rookie cards of stars like Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs have sold for over $100.

During the peak popularity of the hobby in the 1980s, Donruss competed heavily with Topps and Fleer. Their 1982-1987 sets had similar colorful photography-based designs. Common stars and players from this era sell for $1-5 per card. Top rookie cards from this period in high grades can reach $25-50. One of the most sought-after is the 1986 Kirk Gibson rookie card, which has sold for upwards of $150 in mint condition. Complete 1982-1987 Donruss sets in top shape can be found for $75-150 depending on the year and included stars.

In the late 1980s, Donruss took their designs in a bolder, artistic direction with sets like 1988 Stadium Club. This featured creative close-up photos and a premium feel. The iconic Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from this year has reached over $1000 for pristine copies. Complete 1988 Stadium Club sets sell for $300-500 usually. Donruss also released larger sets with oddball photos and extra statistics in the late 80s. These have smaller but dedicated followings today.

The early 1990s saw Donruss incorporate more action shots and attempt gimmicks like on-card autographs. The 1991 and 1992 Donruss sets had simplified designs but included stars of that era like Barry Bonds. Individual cards from this period usually sell for under $5, with complete sets reaching $50-100 depending on included stars and condition. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones have reached $25-50.

After the baseball card market crash of the mid-1990s, Donruss released fewer sets with reduced production runs. Their 1995 and 1996 offerings had innovative die-cut and triple exposures but are more scarce. Complete near-mint sets can sell for $150-300. Individual high-grade cards of Cal Ripken Jr., Tony Gwynn, and others reach $10-25. The company also produced smaller sets under brands like “Donruss Elite” targeting collectors.

Donruss reemerged strongly in the new millennium with sets like 2000 Donruss Signature Series. Featuring on-card autographs, these attracted new collectors. A PSA 10 Derek Jeter rookie signature card sold for over $3000. Complete 2000 Donruss Signature Series sets in top condition have reached $500. Their 2001 and 2002 offerings continued the autographed theme. Individual star autographed cards reach $25-100 depending on the player signature and condition.

In the 2010s, Donruss released popular retro-themed sets paying homage to their earlier designs. The 2011 Throwback Threads set replicated the look of 1988 Stadium Club. A Mike Trout rookie from this set recently sold for over $2000 in mint condition. Other notable 2010s Donruss issues include 2013 Diamond Kings, 2014 Masterpieces, and 2015 Threads of Cooperstown. Individual cards sell for $5-25 usually, with star rookies reaching $50-100 in top grades. Complete factory-sealed sets can be found for $75-150.

As one of the original baseball card companies, Donruss cards remain popular with collectors due to their memorable photography and inclusion of star players from different eras. While not as abundant as Topps cards, high-grade vintage Donruss rookies and stars hold strong value. Their modern retro-themed sets also attract collectors. Overall, Donruss cards represent an important part of the baseball card collecting landscape, with prices varying based on the specific year, set, player, and card condition. Knowledgeable collectors can find affordable options as well as high-value vintage and star rookie cards within the Donruss brand.

BEST 2023 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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2023 Donruss Baseball Cards: Picks for the Top RCs, Parallels, and More

The 2023 Donruss baseball card release is one of the most anticipated issues of the year. After a hugely popular 2021 release, Donruss is building on that momentum with another exciting set featuring today’s top stars, top rookies, and plenty of parallel and insert card variations for collectors to hunt. With so many great cards to choose from, we’ve selected some of the top 2023 Donruss picks that collectors will want to keep an eye out for.

Top Rookie Cards

As always, the rookie class is one of the biggest draws of any new Donruss release. This year’s crop of rookies includes several future superstars, headlined by Tampa Bay Rays shortstop and 2021 #1 overall pick, Carlos Cortez. His paper base rookie card will likely be one of the most sought-after cards in the set. Other top rookie picks include:

Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles 3B – Considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball, Henderson’s star is rising quickly and his Donruss RC will be hot.

Druw Jones, Arizona Diamondbacks OF – As the #2 overall pick in 2022, Jones has huge upside and his cards could explode in value with a strong pro debut season.

Emerson Hancock, Seattle Mariners P – A first round arm with ace potential, Hancock has all the tools to be the top pitching prospect in the class.

Elijah Green, Kansas City Royals OF – Green has five-tool talent and was taken #3 overall, making him a prime rookie to watch in 2023 and beyond.

Top Parallels to Chase

Collectors love the wide array of parallels and short-printed variations that Donruss packs into each release. Here are some of the most coveted parallel cards to hunt in 2023:

Green /99 – The lowest numbered parallel, green parallels are always in high demand. Pulling a star player’s green card fresh will be a big hit.

Gold /50 – A step up from the base parallel but still quite limited, gold parallels hold great value.

Black /10 – About as rare as it gets for a numbered parallel. Black parallels of top rookies will command a hefty premium.

Atomic Refractors – These refractors have a hypnotizing animated look. Pulling an atomic RC is a true chase card.

Red /25 – A classic Donruss parallel color, reds are always popular with collectors.

Purple /5 – Extremely rare parallel available only via hits or lucky pack pulls. True 1/1 potential.

Top Insert Cards

Donruss inserts add another layer of excitement to the chase. Here are some of the inserts expected to be big draws:

Donruss Origins – Iconic photos of stars’ early career moments, like MLB debuts. Big for PC builders.

Diamond Kings – High-gloss parallels featuring players in striking on-field poses. Popular high-end insert.

Superfractor – The ultimate 1/1 parallel insert. Pulling a superfractor of a star player is a true collector’s dream card.

Canvas Cards – Unique textured stock gives these inserts an authentic fine art feel. Fun chase cards.

Credentials – On-card autographs of top prospects as they sign their first pro contracts. Huge for autograph collectors.

Clubhouse Collection – Relic cards featuring game-worn memorabilia paired with sharp action shots.

Top Vets and Stars

While the rookies and parallels are exciting, veteran superstars are always collector favorites. Some top veteran picks for the 2023 Donruss set include:

Shohei Ohtani, Angels – The two-way phenom is the face of the league and any Ohtani pull will be a centerpiece card.

Mike Trout, Angels – Still the best player in baseball. A Trout parallel or insert is an instant collection highlight.

Aaron Judge, Yankees – Coming off his record-setting 62 home run season. Judge mania is at an all-time high.

Juan Soto, Padres – Traded to a new team but still one of the most exciting young stars in the game.

Mookie Betts, Dodgers – Perennial MVP candidate and five-tool star always seems to be in the lineup.

Ronald Acuña Jr., Braves – Returning from injury looking to pick up where he left off as one of baseball’s brightest talents.

With so many incredible cards and storylines to follow, the 2023 Donruss baseball release is sure to be a monumental hit. Collectors can look forward to finding their favorite new stars, chasing down coveted parallels and inserts, and building their PC’s with iconic veterans. The set is primed to produce many valuable and memorable cards for years to come.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS OF VALUE

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the more valuable sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s era. While it did not have the same cultural impact as the iconic 1987 and 1989 Topps sets, the 1990 Donruss set featured some major stars and rookie cards that have stood the test of time in terms of collectibility and value. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key 1990 Donruss cards that hold significant value for collectors today.

One of the most notable rookies from the 1990 Donruss set is Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was a huge star from the very beginning of his career. His rookie card from the 1990 Donruss set, while not quite as iconic as his upper deck rookie, is still one of the most sought after rookie cards from the junk wax era. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s 1990 Donruss rookie will fetch prices upwards of $150-200. Higher graded versions in the PSA 8-10 range can sell for $300-1000 depending on the market. The card captured Griffey at the beginning of what became a surefire hall of fame career playing center field in Seattle.

Another star rookie from 1990 Donruss is the card of Roberto Alomar. Alomar went on to have a stellar career primarily with the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays, winning multiple Gold Gloves at second base and being elected to the Hall of Fame in 2011. Alomar’s 1990 Donruss rookie card isn’t quite as valuable as Griffey’s, but it still holds solid value for collectors. In near mint to mint condition it can sell for $50-100, with higher graded PSA/BGS versions reaching $150-300. The card features Alomar as a member of the San Diego Padres organization before he was traded to the Blue Jays.

In addition to star rookies, the 1990 Donruss set also featured major active players that were entering their primes or coming off all-star caliber seasons. For example, the card of Oakland A’s slugger Jose Canseco from the set carries value, likely due to his status as the first player to hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in the same season just a few years prior in 1988. Canseco’s 1990 Donruss card in near mint to mint condition sells in the $15-30 range. Higher graded versions can reach $50-100. Another Athletics star, Mark McGwire, also has a solid card from the 1990 Donruss set. Known for breaking the single season home run record just a few years later, “Big Mac’s” 1990 Donruss sells for $10-20 in top condition.

Two of the biggest stars of the late 1980s and 1990s that have valuable cards from the 1990 Donruss set are Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith. Ryan was nearing the end of his legendary career but was still considered one of the most intimidating pitchers in baseball. His 1990 Donruss card sells for $10-15 in top shape. Higher graded versions can reach $25-50. And Ozzie Smith, known as the best defensive shortstop of all time and a huge fan favorite, has a card from the 1990 Donruss set that sells for $8-12 in top condition. PSA/BGS gem mint versions can reach $20-30.

The 1990 Donruss set is also notable for featuring star players who were just starting to emerge nationally. For example, the card of slugging first baseman Mark Teixeira as a member of the Texas Rangers organization holds value. Teixeira went on to have an 8 time all-star career, and his 1990 Donruss rookie sells for $5-8 in top shape, with higher graded versions reaching $10-15. Another example is the card of pitcher Tom Glavine, who was on the cusp of a hall of fame career primarily with the Atlanta Braves. Glavine’s 1990 Donruss sells for $4-6 in top condition, with PSA/BGS gem mint copies reaching $8-12.

While not quite as iconic as some other late 80s/early 90s sets, the 1990 Donruss baseball card release featured rookies and stars that have proven to stand the test of time in terms of collectibility and value. Key cards like Ken Griffey Jr, Roberto Alomar, Jose Canseco, Mark McGwire, Nolan Ryan and Ozzie Smith continue to attract attention from collectors. With the popularity of the players and the set itself, prices of high grade versions of these stars are likely to remain strong for years to come. The 1990 Donruss set serves as an example of how even in the midst of the junk wax era, certain releases featured durable cardboard that maintains significance for collectors decades later.

1988 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS SET

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The 1988 Donruss baseball card set was the sixth installment in the popular Donruss brand which had started in 1981. After having the photography and graphical design handled primarily in-house for the first several years, Donruss made some major changes to the 1988 set that collectors still talk about today. They brought in prominent sports photographer Bruce Wheelan to take all the action shots and portraits for the base cards. Wheelan had gained notoriety for his work with Pro Set and Score in the late 1980s and brought a new level of quality to Donruss’ photography. They also completely revamped the card design language. Gone were the relatively plain white borders and basic fonts used on previous Donruss issues.

The 1988 Donruss set featured a die-cut design that gave the impression of each card being an irregularly cut piece of cardboard. This allowed for asymmetrical edges on the borders that varied slightly from card to card. The photos were enlarged and printed right to the very edges, giving a clean and uncluttered look. Card stock was also upgraded to a semiglossy cardstock rather than the plain stock of years past. Along the edges were vibrant splashes of team colors that helped accentuate each player’s affiliation. Perhaps most eye-catching of all, Donruss incorporated a rainbow spectrum burst pattern behind the player photos on every card. This dramatic splash of blending colors became a signature look for the 1988 set.

On the front, statistics were printed in white above the photo in an easy to read sans serif font. Player names appeared below in all capital letters, color coded to match their team colors. One interesting trait of the 1988 set was that team nicknames were used rather than full team names. For example, cards listed “RED SOX” or “DODGERS” rather than “Boston Red Sox” or “Los Angeles Dodgers.” This was a trend that proved both popular and lasting, as almost all modern issues stick with nicknames on base cards. On the back, statistics and career highlights were presented in a clean spreadsheet layout.

Despite the visual upgrades, what collectors still associate most with the 1988 Donruss set are the gum stains. Like most issues of the time, Donruss cards came packed five to a wax paper wrapped pack with a pink stick of chewing gum. Over the ensuing decades, the bubblicious gum proved all too effective at seeping sugars and chemicals onto the backs of the enclosed cards. Gum stains ranging from light tan to dark coffee brown blotches came to define late 80s Donruss among collectors. To this day, high grade 1988 Donruss cards without at least a hint of gum staining command a serious premium in the market.

The 1988 base set checklist included 792 total cards made up of player, manager, coach, and league leader subsets. Some key rookies found in the set were Mark McGwire, Barry Larkin, Randy Johnson, and Mark Grace. Superstars featured included Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Roger Clemens, and Kirby Puckett. An exciting highlight was the inclusion ofTraded sets at the tail end of the season as players swapped teams. This marked one of the first mainstream issues to incorporate trades into the base checklist during the production process.

In addition to the base cards, Donruss also offered inserts like Glossy All-Stars, Team Leaders, Diamond Kings parallels on gold cardstock, and Glossy Rookies. Their traditional Traded set and Manager/Coach cards returned as well. A popular promotion bundled packs with contest ballots where collectors could win a trip to spring training. Overall production numbers for 1988 Donruss neared 300 million cards as the brand remained one of the top three issuers alongside Topps and Fleer. Condition sensitive collectors seeking pristine examples must sift through thousands of gum stained specimens in the rough waters of the secondary market. Still, 1987 Donruss endures as one the most iconic 1980s issues partly due to its groundbreaking design strides.

Three decades later, the 1988 Donruss set still holds a beloved spot in the hearts of many collectors who came of hobby age during the explosion of the late 80s baseball card boom. While not quite as coveted as the flagship issues from Topps and Fleer in any given year, Donruss brought passion and quality to their own brand in 1988. Their design innovations helped elevate the visual identity of the entire collecting industry. The signature rainbow bursts, team nickname uniforms, and enlarged vivid photography set a style template that echoes through modern issues even today. Of course, it wouldn’t be a true 1988 Donruss discussion without mentioning the gum stains, both loved and lamented in the same breath depending on who you talk to. This standout mid-80s edition has cemented its status as a defining set from rookie card mega stars of the late 20th century.

1983 DONRUSS BIG BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1983 Donruss Big baseball card set is considered a modern classic of the Junk Wax Era of the 1980s and early 90s. Not only did it feature oversized 3.5” by 5” cards that were a novelty at the time, the set also contained various fun extras that collectors loved. At 462 total cards, the ‘83 Donruss Big set has endured and attracted new fans thanks to its larger-than-life aesthetic and intriguing extras included with each pack.

When Donruss released their Big card set in 1983, they introduced a whole new dimensions and design standards for baseball cards that other companies tried to imitate in subsequent years. At nearly twice the size of a standard card, Donruss Big cards stood out on the shelf and in anyone’s collection. This increase in physical card size allowed Donruss to include more stats, career highlights, and vivid color photos on each card. Rather than cramming information onto the smaller surfaces they previously used, Donruss had ample room to spread out stats tables and really highlight each players career achievements to that point.

Beyond just the larger card, Donruss Big also contained additional inserts and bonus items packed randomly in boxes. Some of the extras fans could find included bubblegum, temporary tattoos, stickers, and coupon/trading cards. Each pack had a chance to contain one of these exciting bonuses from Donruss. Collectors at the time loved the surprise of not knowing what extra goodies their quarter purchase might yield. It added an element of excitement and chance to the otherwise straightforward act of buying packs of cards. These bonuses also encouraged repeat purchases as kids hoped for tattoos of their favorite players or coupons they could redeem.

Included within the expansive 462-card base set were rookie cards for dozens of future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and David Cone. Icons like Nolan Ryan, Phil Niekro, and Pete Rose had stat-packed career retrospective cards as well. While the photo quality and production values weren’t wildly different than contemporary sets from Topps or Fleer, the oversized format really allowed each players career highlights to shine through. Colorful graphics, tables, and career stats gave collectors a thorough snapshot of where certain veterans were at that point in their lengthy MLB tenure.

For teams, the 1983 Donruss Big set featured uniform color-tonedteam cards highlighting that franchise’s top performers from that season. Team checklists also listed each player included from that club to help collectors track their progress. Whether pursuing a full set, team sets, or individual player cards, the team-centric layouts and checklists aided the organizational process for completionists.

While collecting habits differed player to player, many kids in the early 80s saved their allowance, lunch money, or earnings from odd jobs to purchase wax packs at the corner store. The promise of bonus items amid the base cards brought an element of surprise to each pack rip. You never knew what extra you might pull whether it be a small piece of returning bubblegum, temporary tattoos of Mike Schmidt or George Brett, or promotional trading cards for the 1984 Olympics. Whether completing sets or just enjoying the collective experience with friends, Donruss Big cards offered plenty for both casual and avid collectors alike to enjoy.

In the years since, the oversized Donruss Big cards have retained their novelty appeal. Their generous size makes for an eye-catching display in any collection. While production numbers for certain stars may diminish their true scarcity today, the fun accessories and overall aesthetic of the 1983 set keeps it a favorite of players from that era. With lively photography showcasing some of baseball’s biggest names of the time, Donruss Big offered kids and adults of the 1980s a uniquely large cardboard window into that season on the diamond. Their lasting popularity and consistent demand among collectors ensures this unique subset of the junk wax era maintains its value and nostalgia decades later.

Fueled by the surge of interest from players who collected them as kids plus a desire from newer collectors to experience the fun of the 1980s, 1983 Donruss Big cards remain a highly recognizable part of card collecting history. Between the novelty oversized cards, detailed stats, vibrant photography, and bonus pack inserts, it’s easy to understand why fans at the time and collectors today remain so drawn to this vibrant and engrossing annual set from Donruss.

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DONRUSS TRIPLE PLAY BASEBALL CARDS

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Donruss Triple Play Baseball Cards: A Brief History of the Groundbreaking Triple Play Insert Set

In 1991, Donruss introduced one of the most innovative baseball card inserts ever created – Triple Play. The concept was simple yet genius – include three cards of the same player in each pack or box of cards. Each card would feature the player at a different position on the field. For example, a Derek Jeter Triple Play insert would include a shortstop card, an outfield card, and a third base card, reflecting Jeter’s versatility on defense. This was a first for baseball cards and captured collectors’ imaginations. Over the years, Donruss would produce several series of Triple Play inserts, becoming one of the most iconic and sought-after specialty sets in the hobby.

The original 1991 Donruss Triple Play inserts debuted alongside the main Donruss baseball release. Packs and boxes had a chance of containing a Triple Play insert instead of the usual single card. Each insert featured three cropped photographs of a player, arranged vertically. The front of each card listed the player’s name and primary position, along with a fun factoid about playing that position. On the back, stats from that position were provided. For example, the back of Jeter’s shortstop card contained his 1990 shortstop fielding stats.

Collectors loved the innovative concept and the creative photography used. Seeing star players at unfamiliar positions was intriguing. The inserts also captured the versatility many ballplayers possessed. While most fans only associated Ozzie Smith with shortstop, his Triple Play insert reminded collectors he also spent time at third base and the outfield in his career. For young players just breaking in, the inserts offered a glimpse at their future potential if moved around the diamond.

The first series was a huge success and became one of the most sought-after subsets in the 1991 Donruss product. Inspired, Donruss continued producing new Triple Play inserts for several years. In 1992, they introduced multi-player “Team Triple Plays” showing three defensive alignments for the same club. The 1993 version featured horizontal card designs instead of vertical. Subsequent years saw additional visual tweaks to keep the concept feeling fresh.

By the mid-1990s, collectors had amassed sizable Triple Play collections. The inserts became a popular category for team and player sets. With their innovative photography and fun designs focused on versatility, the inserts captured the imagination of both kids and adults. For many, assembling a complete run of Triple Play inserts became a long-term project and a true testament to dedication in the hobby.

While production of Triple Plays wound down later in the decade as insert sets proliferated, the early runs remain hugely popular with vintage collectors today. The original 1991 Triple Plays are among the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever produced. Top star rookies like Frank Thomas and Chuck Knoblauch can fetch hundreds of dollars per card in Near Mint condition. Even common players command premium prices due to the iconic set’s popularity.

For modern collectors just entering the hobby, tracking down a complete ’91 Donruss Triple Play set presents an exciting long-term collecting goal. The innovative concept of three cards per player in different defensive positions broke new ground and captured the essence of baseball. By focusing on versatility and creativity over traditional stats or action shots, the Triple Plays showed collectors and players alike in a unique new light. Their legacy lives on as one of the most beloved specialty subsets from the early 1990s boom period in baseball cards.

In summary, Donruss Triple Play inserts were a groundbreaking concept when introduced in 1991 that captured the imagination of collectors. By featuring players in uncommon defensive positions on three cards per insert, they showed versatility and presented players in a new light. The innovative photography and fun design led to the inserts becoming a hugely popular specialty subset. While production wound down by the late 90s, the early runs – especially 1991 – remain extremely iconic and valuable today. The Triple Plays broke new ground and their legacy continues to influence modern baseball card design and specialty sets. They were simply ahead of their time in terms of focusing on versatility and creativity over traditional card tropes.

25 MOST VALUABLE 1992 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Donruss baseball card set was released at the height of the early 1990s baseball card boom. While not as iconic or sought after as some other vintage sets from the era, the 1992 Donruss roster featured many of the game’s biggest stars from that time period. Several factors have contributed to making some of the cards from this set highly valuable today. Let’s take a look at the 25 most valuable 1992 Donruss baseball cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint condition prices:

Ken Griffey Jr. – One of the most exciting young players in baseball in 1992, Griffey was already well on his way to a Hall of Fame career. His Donruss rookie card in a PSA 10 recently sold for around $150.

Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt” was coming off an MVP season in 1991 and was one of the premier power hitters in the AL in the early 90s. His 1992 Donruss card in a PSA 10 has sold for around $175.

Cal Ripken Jr. – The Iron Man was still producing at an All-Star level in 1992 and held the record for consecutive games played. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss card has sold for around $200.

Barry Bonds – Already one of the game’s top players by 1992, Bonds would go on to break the single season home run record in 2001. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 has sold for around $225.

Jeff Bagwell – Bagwell’s breakout season was in 1991 when he finished third in MVP voting. His 1992 Donruss rookie card in a PSA 10 has sold for around $250.

Tom Glavine – The ace of the Atlanta Braves staff in the early 1990s, Glavine won his first Cy Young award in 1991. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss card has sold for around $275.

Mike Piazza – Piazza’s rookie season was in 1992 and he immediately established himself as one of the game’s top slugging catchers. His rookie card in a PSA 10 sold for around $300.

Greg Maddux – Already a four-time Cy Young winner by 1992, Maddux was the best pitcher in baseball during this era. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 recently sold for around $325.

Roberto Alomar – Coming off a season where he won a Gold Glove and finished second in MVP voting, Alomar was one of baseball’s premier second basemen. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 sold for around $350.

Jeff Kent – Kent broke out with the Pirates in 1992, hitting 24 home runs and driving in 100 runs. His rookie card in a PSA 10 sold for around $375.

John Smoltz – Already an established starter by 1992, Smoltz would go on to have a Hall of Fame career. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 sold for around $400.

Wade Boggs – The hit machine was still producing for the Red Sox in the early 1990s. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss card recently sold for around $425.

David Justice – In his first full season in 1992, Justice established himself as a power hitter for the Braves. His rookie card in a PSA 10 sold for around $450.

Derek Jeter – Jeter’s legendary career was just getting started in 1992 as a rookie. His rookie card in a PSA 10 sold for around $500.

Chipper Jones – Jones broke into the majors in 1995 but had a prominent rookie card in the 1992 Donruss set. A PSA 10 recently sold for around $550.

Jim Abbott – The one-armed pitcher’s inspiring 1990 season made him one of baseball’s most famous players. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss sold for around $600.

Fred McGriff – “The Crime Dog” was a perennial 30 home run hitter and All-Star for the Blue Jays in the early 1990s. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 sold for around $650.

Mo Vaughn – Vaughn broke out in 1991 and won the MVP in 1995. His 1992 Donruss rookie card in a PSA 10 recently sold for around $700.

John Olerud – The smooth swinging first baseman won the batting title in 1993. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss rookie card sold for around $750.

Roger Clemens – Already a three-time Cy Young winner, “The Rocket” was arguably the best pitcher in baseball in 1992. His card in a PSA 10 sold for around $800.

Andy Van Slyke – The five-tool player was a star for the Pirates in the early 1990s. His 1992 Donruss in a PSA 10 recently sold for around $850.

Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt’s” 1991 MVP season made him one of the most sought after young stars. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss Update rookie sold for around $900.

Greg Maddux – Maddux’s impeccable control and pitching smarts made him a constant Cy Young contender. His 1992 Donruss Update in a PSA 10 sold for around $1000.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Griffey was already one of the most exciting players in baseball by 1992. A PSA 10 of his 1992 Donruss Update rookie recently sold for around $1200.

Barry Bonds – In the midst of winning his first MVP award in 1992, Bonds was arguably the best player in baseball. His 1992 Donruss Update in a PSA 10 condition recently sold for an astonishing $1500.

While not as iconic as some other vintage sets, the 1992 Donruss roster featured many future Hall of Famers and all-time greats from the early 1990s. Strong rookie cards of stars like Griffey, Maddux, and Bonds have made their 1992 Donruss issues highly valuable, especially in pristine PSA 10 condition. The combination of star power, condition, and nostalgia for the early 90s boom years continue to drive values for the top cards from this classic set.

1986 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS TCDB

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The 1986 Donruss baseball card set is considered by many collectors and enthusiasts to be one of the top releases in the entire vintage Donruss era that spanned from 1981 to 1998. The 1986 Donruss set broke the mold from the basic and sparse designs of earlier Donruss issues by introducing vibrant color photography, fun and creative action shots, along with several innovative inserts and parallels that added to the excitement of the release.

Some key aspects that added to the popularity of the 1986 Donruss set include:

Full color action photography on the base cards for the first time, moving away from the simple black and white or grayscale images of the past. This gave each player card a dynamic new look that was a great upgrade.
Fun photography themes like “Heads Up” shots where a player is mid-swing or catch without a batting helmet on. Or “Feet First” slide shots added some creative energy to the designs.
Expanded rookie and star player profiles on the backs highlighted stats and career notes in a fun and engaging way.
Popular inserts like “First Pitch” which were oversized cards featuring a different player on the front for each team.
Included coveted parallels inserts like “Brilliant”, “Superstar Spectrum” and “Refractor Spectrum” that showed the technology innovation Donruss was bringing to cards.
Iconic design elements like the large “D” logo and team wordmarks integrated with the photography stood out on shelves compared to competitors.

With these new design elements in play, the 1986 Donruss set checklist and roster of included players contributed to its strong collector appeal as well. Some highlights of the included players and their corresponding cards that increased interest:

Rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine that are still highly sought after today.
The inclusion of 465 total players, one of the highest player counts of any ’80s era set, meant more stars were featured.
Power hitters like Mike Schmidt, Darryl Strawberry and Andre Dawson had highly collectible featured cards.
Young superstars like Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden and Wally Joyner had early star cards people wanted.
Top performers from 1985 like Don Mattingly and Vince Coleman that kept the excitement of the prior season alive.
Team checklist coverage was extensive with players from all 26 MLB clubs at the time included.

When it came to production and printing quality, the 1986 Donruss set maintained the high standards the brand was known for. Here are some key points on how Donruss ensured the cards remained prized possessions for collectors:

Card stock was of very high quality, thick without being flimsy like some other brands. This helped the color pop visually.
Coating and finishes on parallel and rare cards added a true premium feel worthy of their scarcity.
Centering, cut quality and lack of print lines/defects was top notch for the majority of the release.
Tight quality control meant replacements could be requested via the Donruss customer service hotline if issues arose.
Distribution was carefully managed by Donruss to sports card shops, hobby stores and major retailers to avoid surpluses.

In the years since its original 1986 release, the legacy and collecting popularity of the set have only grown stronger. Factors that have contributed to its lasting appeal include:

Iconic rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Clemens, Maddux and Glavine that hold immense long term value.
Strong investment returns, as ’86 Donruss graded gem mint 10 rookies have appreciated greatly since the ’80s boom.
Nostalgia for the vivid colorful photography and innovative designs of the era.
Highly collectible parallels like Refractors and Brilliant insert sets that are coveted by inser collectors.
Regular inclusion in sports card price guides, magazines and websites ensuring awareness remains high.
Representation in books, documentaries talking about the ‘golden age’ of cards in the ’80s and ’90s.
Annual auctions at major card conventions seeing record prices paid for ’86 Donruss stars like Strawberry and Gooden.

In the end, the unparalleled fun, color and variety the 1986 Donruss baseball card set brought opened the doors for the brand to truly take off. It showed collectors, investors and the hobby as a whole what innovative designs, quality and spotlighting of top players could achieve. Over 35 years later, the1986 Donruss release is remembered as one of the true icons of the vintage sports card boom era of the 1980s. Its legacy and collectibility seems certain to endure for generations to come.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PACK

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Produced by Donruss, it was one of the major new releases for the 1990 season alongside sets from Fleer, Topps, and Score. Compared to modern sets, the 1990 Donruss set featured fewer photographic updates and rookie cards of future stars. It provided collectors with affordable wax packs full of enjoyable nostalgia from a simpler time in the sport.

Donruss released baseball cards annually from 1981 through 1992 before losing the MLB license. The 1990 set was the 10th and penultimate baseball card release from the company during its run producing licensed major league content. It featured cards of all major and minor league players as well as managers, coaches, and even some umpires. The aesthetic was similar to other late 80s/early 90s Donruss sets with a yellow and red color scheme and team logo designs on the fronts of most cards.

The base set for 1990 Donruss numbered 660 cards as was typical for the brand at the time. The photography and designs were fairly basic compared to modern meticulously cropped and staged images. They remained fun period pieces depicting the players, teams, and uniforms of baseball circa 1990. Notable stars heavily featured included Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Roger Clemens among many others in their baseball prime during that season. The set also included “Traded” cards to account for offseason player transactions.

Perhaps the biggest rookie debut in the base 1990 Donruss set was catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. of the Cleveland Indians who went on to have a solid 14-year MLB career. Other young players like Wilson Alvarez, Derek Bell, and Gregg Jefferies also received their first MLB cards but were still developing into household names. Veterans like Bob Boone and Gary Carter nearing retirement were included for the final time as well in a nostalgic snapshot of the late 80s-early 90s MLB landscape.

While lacking some of the premiumness and photo variations of higher-end sets, 1990 Donruss did include several insert sets beyond the base roster. The “Record Breakers” insert focused on milestone stats from the previous season including Nolan Ryan’s 5000th strikeout. A “Turn Back The Clock” insert reimagined players from the 1892 season in modern uniforms. Subsets highlighted rookie all-stars, top prospects, and league leaders for categories like homers and RBIs the prior year.

Perhaps the most exciting chase for collectors opening 1990 Donruss packs were the highly sought-after “Portraits of the Game” cards featuring close-up headshots of stars past and present. Numbers in this subset were arbitrarily assigned but included legends likes Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Ty Cobb amongst the 100 total different portraits. Collecting a full matched rainbow sheet of the “Portraits” insert was a memorable achievement for any young hobbyist at the time.

The massive boom in baseball card collecting during the late 80s fueled skyrocketing card prices and speculative investing practices similar to today’s NFT and cryptocurrency bubbles. This period is often romanticized through rose-colored glasses but the overproduction of some brands diluted sets and hurt long term value for collectors. However, 1990 Donruss packs still hold nostalgia as quintessential moments of surprising discovery during childhood card openings shared with friends. Wax wrappers snapped, gum chewed, and players analyzed fueling initial sports fandom.

While not as investment worthy as rare vintage cards or modern ultra-precious rookie short prints, 1990 Donruss boxes remained affordable and could still be found on shelves well after the bubble burst. The brand served to introduce collectors to the stars and history of MLB through affordable wax packs before money and scarcity took over the hobby. Sets from this era capture artifacts from a transitioning period as baseball cards moved from childhood pastime to speculative adult collecting. Donruss fit smoothly into that evolving landscape with fun designs and good production lasting memories for a generation of fans.

While 1990 Donruss lacks the crazy valuations and investment potential of some overhyped modern parallels or 1/1 serial number relic autos, the set remains a charming time capsule. It brought the excitement of baseball card trading to millions of kids just starting to follow America’s pastime in the late 80s. Factoring in the throwback designs, inclusion of both stars and lesser known role players, and family-friendly price point – the 1990 Donruss baseball card release deserves recognition within the wider hobby timeline. It provided a more accessible entry point for collecting during the boom that created life-long fans cherishing memories and relationships built in childhood over slabs and sheets from that simpler era.

VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1990 DONRUSS

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set included some rookie cards and young star cards that have proven to be very valuable in the decades since. Although not the flashiest or highest graded set of the early 1990s, the ’90 Donruss set holds nostalgia and investing potential for collectors due to key cards included.

Perhaps the most sought after and valuable card from the 1990 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already creating buzz in his first full season in 1989 and topped Rookie of the Year voting. His ascension to stardom was nearly guaranteed and collectors knew his rookie card would be a long-term hold. PSA 10 graded examples of Griffey’s 1990 Donruss rookie now sell for thousands of dollars due to his legendary playing career and the card’s sharp design complementing his swung-bat pose. Even well-centered, high-grade copies in PSA 8 or 9 can fetch $100-500 today showing staying power.

Another huge star featured as a rookie in 1990 Donruss was Juan Gonzalez. While injuries limited his longevity compared to Junior, Gonzalez put together several MVP caliber seasons for the Rangers in the 1990s that highlighted his prodigious power. His rookie card carries a high price tag as well, with a PSA 10 bringing in the $1,000+ range. Like Griffey, even lower graded versions still command $100+ in today’s market. Collectors saw Gonzalez’s potential immediately and this card was hoarded from packs.

One of the more unexpected rarities and sleepers from 1990 Donruss proved to be the Chipper Jones rookie card. As the top overall pick in the 1990 draft by the Atlanta Braves, Jones flew under the radar of many collectors his first few years. But a breakout 1995 season put him on the map as a perennial All-Star and he would go on to a Hall of Fame career. His rookie card price tag has soared in recent years, with PSA 10s now selling for $2,000-3000. Even in lower grades of PSA 8 or 9, Chipper’s rookie provides a strong ROI for collectors given his legacy.

Beyond the star rookies, 1990 Donruss had several young veterans and franchise players entering their primes including Frank Thomas and Jeff Bagwell. “The Big Hurt” Thomas was entering his age 22 season in 1990 after a hot rookie campaign the prior year. He would go on to have one of the best careers for a right-handed hitter ever. His 1990 Donruss card has steadily increased in price and a PSA 10 recently hit $1000. Even lower grades still command $50-200 given Thomas’ legend status. Meanwhile, Jeff Bagwell’s 1990 Donruss may have flown under collectors’ radars, but he would emerge as the face of the Astros throughout the 1990s. Bagwell’s PSA 10 has cracked $500 in value and gives budget collectors a more affordable star card.

The 1990 Donruss set also featured homegrown superstars in the latter stages of their primes like Kirby Puckett and Wade Boggs. “Puck” was fresh off back-to-back World Series titles with the Twins and remained one of baseball’s most feared hitters throughout the early 90s. His 1990 Donruss sells for $50-150 in top condition reflecting his folklore status in Minnesota. Meanwhile, Wade Boggs was still churning out 200-hit seasons for Boston at that point. A PSA 10 of his ’90 Donruss recently sold for nearly $400, showing strong demand for the hit king’s stellar career.

The design aesthetic of 1990 Donruss also adds to the nostalgia and appeal for collectors today. Photos were bright and focused on the players’ faces with pennant-style team wordmarks along the border. Stats on the back were clean and easy to read. Overall condition of these cards has held up relatively well compared to contemporaneous sets as well. The design elements like the simple team logos, swung bat crops and clearness of photos have withstood the test of time.

While not as hyped as some other 1990s sets, the 1990 Donruss baseball cards deliver strong nostalgia plus investing potential three decades later. Headlined by the monster rookie cards of Griffey, Gonzalez and Jones, this set houses budding superstars and is a snapshot of baseball in transition to the steroid era. Key veterans like Puckett and Boggs add extra cachet. The design has aged exceptionally well too. For budget-minded collectors, sharp copies of stars like Frank Thomas and Jeff Bagwell deliver excellent bang for the buck. Overall, 1990 Donruss endures as a set that rewards long-term holders.