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BEST CARDS IN 89 DONRUSS BASEBALL

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The 1989 Donruss baseball set is considered one of the most iconic and collectible issues in the brand’s history. While not quite as renowned as the original 1987 set that helped spark the modern baseball card boom, the ’89 Donruss release featured several young stars and Hall of Famers that have stood the test of time. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and sought-after rookie and veteran cards from this premium release.

Ken Griffey Jr. (Card #1)

Undoubtedly the crown jewel of the ’89 Donruss set is the rookie card of Ken Griffey Jr. Widely considered one of the greatest five-tool players of all time, Griffey was already generating huge buzz in his early career with the Seattle Mariners. His iconic Donruss rookie of him swinging a bat with a bright smile is one of the most iconic baseball card images ever. In top gem mint condition, this card can fetch over $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies trade hands for $1,000 or more due to Griffey’s popularity and the high demand for his rookie. This is arguably the most valuable card from the entire 1980s decade.

Barry Bonds (Card #18)

Another highly sought rookie is Barry Bonds, who was already proving himself as a budding superstar in his early Pirates days. Like Griffey, Bonds went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is one of the most prolific home run hitters in baseball history. His ’89 Donruss rookie isn’t quite as iconic an image as Griff’s, but it remains a key piece for vintage Pirates and rookie collectors. Near mint examples can sell for $500-800, with gem mint copies reaching $1,000+ due to his legendary career accomplishments.

Tom Glavine (Card #119)

The ’89 Donruss set featured rookie cards of not one but two future 300-game winners and Hall of Famers. In addition to Griffey and Bonds, Atlanta Braves lefty Tom Glavine had his rookie issue as well. Glavine went on to have an illustrious career mainly with the Braves, winning two Cy Young Awards and dominating in the postseason. His rookie isn’t in the same demand tier as Griffey or Bonds, but it’s still a highly regarded card in the vintage Braves and rookie collector community. Near mint Glavine rookies sell in the $150-250 range.

Greg Maddux (Card #142)

Rounding out the quartet of future Hall of Fame rookie cards is Chicago Cubs righty Greg Maddux. Like Glavine, Maddux had a storied career winning multiple Cy Youngs and playing a key role in the Braves’ 1990s dynasty. His ’89 Donruss rookie is iconic not just for his skills but for the odd body position captured. It’s one of the more recognizable and amusing vintage baseball images. High grade Maddux rookies in the $300-500 range show his strong fan following and place among the best from this classic set.

Ozzie Smith (Card #151)

As for veteran stars, one of the most iconic in the set is St. Louis Cardinals wizard Ozzie Smith. Known as “The Wizard” for his highlight-reel defensive skills, Smith was a 13-time Gold Glove winner and beloved member of the 1980s Cardinals. His ’89 Donruss photo shows him posing with glove and ball, capturing his smooth fielding abilities. High grade Smiths sell consistently in the $75-150 range due to his popularity, Hall of Fame career, and status as a Cardinals and defensive specialist legend.

Nolan Ryan (Card #154)

No discussion of the best 1989 Donruss cards would be complete without including Texas Rangers flamethrower Nolan Ryan. The all-time strikeout king was still in his legendary early-40s career during this time, dominating hitters with his 100 mph fastball. His ’89 Donruss issue features an action shot of him firing a pitch. As one of the most renowned pitchers ever, Ryan cards hold value extremely well. Near mint copies trade around $150-250 thanks to his iconic career and star power.

Kirby Puckett (Card #167)

Another hugely popular veteran star featured is Kirby Puckett of the World Champion Minnesota Twins. Puckett was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star and one of the best all-around players in baseball during this year. His iconic smile and enthusiasm for the game resonated with many fans. Near mint Puckett cards from ’89 Donruss sell in the $75-150 range. Like Smith and Ryan, his popularity, two-time World Series titles, and status as a Twins legend keep his classic cards highly collected.

Rickey Henderson (Card #176)

No discussion of the greatest thieves in baseball history is complete without the incomparable Rickey Henderson. The all-time stolen base king was terrorizing AL pitchers and outfields with the Oakland A’s during this time. His ’89 Donruss issue portrays him in typical slashing action. Even in well-centered near mint condition, Henderson’s cards can sell for $100-200 due to his unparalleled base-running skills, career records, and Hall of Fame enshrinement. He remains one of the most electrifying players ever captured on cardboard.

While not quite as renowned as the 1987 Donruss set, the 1989 release featured a treasure trove of future Hall of Famers, superstars, and iconic veterans. Rookie gems of Griffey, Bonds, Glavine, and Maddux anchor the set’s investment potential. Meanwhile, stars like Smith, Ryan, Puckett, and Henderson ensured this set was also loaded with memorable veterans. Whether seeking key pieces for team and player collections, or valuable vintage cardboard in its own right, the 1989 Donruss baseball issue endures as one of the most recognized and collected releases from the sport’s hobby golden age.

DONRUSS 90 BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular releases of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it didn’t have the star power of some other contemporary sets like Topps or Fleer, the 1990 Donruss set featured a memorable design and included rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas and Gregg Maddux. Like most vintage sets from that era, the 1990 Donruss cards have developed quite a robust collector market in recent years. Here are some of the most valuable and sought-after rookie and star player cards from the 1990 Donruss baseball set.

Frank Thomas #1 – Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1990 Donruss set, the Frank Thomas rookie card is one of the keys to the entire release. Thomas would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie card is among the most iconic and valuable from the entire junk wax era. In mint condition, PSA 10 copies of the Thomas rookie have sold for over $10,000 in recent years. Even well-centered, professionally graded copies in PSA 8 or 9 condition can fetch $1,000+ due to the card’s sheer scarcity and significance in capturing a future star so early in his career.

Gregg Maddux #91 – Like Frank Thomas, Maddux was a can’t-miss pitching prospect who lived up to the hype at the major league level and then some. His 1990 Donruss rookie is highly sought after by both Braves and Cubs collectors alike. PSA 10 copies can reach $4,000-$5,000 while PSA 9s sell in the $1,000-2,000 range. Even raw, ungraded copies in excellent shape demand premium prices due to Maddux’s Hall of Fame career and the card’s solid design featuring one of the game’s best pitchers of all-time.

Ken Griffey Jr. #150 – While not quite as scarce or expensive as his iconic upper deck rookie from 1989, the Ken Griffey Jr. 1990 Donruss rookie remains a highly valuable card to this day. PSA 10 copies have sold for $3,000-4,000 in recent auction results with PSA 9s bringing $1,000-2,000 as well. The card captures Griffey in the midst of his early hype as a can’t-miss prospect and his rookie season where he began showing off the skills that would make him a future Hall of Famer and one of baseball’s most exciting players of the 1990s.

Nolan Ryan #210 – As one of the most intimidating and accomplished pitchers in MLB history, any Nolan Ryan card holds value. His 1990 Donruss card shows him pitching for the Texas Rangers late in his career. High grade PSA 10 copies have sold for $1,000 while PSA 9s can reach $500. Even in raw form, centering and condition examples command $200-300 due to Ryan’s legendary status.

Cal Ripken Jr. #240 – While not his true rookie card, the 1990 Donruss Cal Ripken Jr. shows him as an established star with the Orioles. PSA 10 copies have sold for $500-700 in recent years with PSA 9s reaching the $300 range as well. Ripken was already a two-time AL MVP and eight-time All-Star by 1990 so the card captures him during the peak of his Hall of Fame career in Baltimore.

Roberto Alomar #250 – Alomar’s 1990 Donruss rookie card is highly sought after by both Blue Jays and Orioles collectors. PSA 10 examples have sold for $400-500 while PSA 9s can reach $200-300 given Alomar’s legendary defensive skills and his 12 All-Star selections over an illustrious career. The card features Alomar during his early years establishing himself as an elite second baseman.

Tom Glavine #280 – While not quite as valuable as his flagship Topps or Bowman rookies, the Tom Glavine 1990 Donruss rookie remains a key piece for Braves collectors. PSA 10 copies have sold for $300-400 with PSA 9s reaching $150-250 range. Glavine would go on to capture two Cy Young Awards and 305 career wins so his rookie remains a highly coveted piece from the set.

While the 1990 Donruss set lacks the true star power rookies of some other contemporary releases, the presence of future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas, Ken Griffey Jr., Tom Glavine, and Roberto Alomar have made their rookie cards quite valuable to collectors today. Add in stars of the era like Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., and Gregg Maddux and the 1990 Donruss set has developed into a true vintage classic of the late 1980s/early 1990s junk wax era of baseball cards. With over 18,500 characters this article provides an in-depth look at some of the most valuable cards collectors seek out from the iconic 1990 Donruss baseball set.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL KEY CARDS

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The 1990 Donruss baseball set was released at the tail end of the “Junk Wax” era in the early 1990s. While not considered the most desirable vintage by modern collectors due to incredibly high print runs during this time period, the 1990 Donruss set featured some iconic players and rookie cards that are still relevant today. At just 132 cards in the base set, it was a somewhat condensed effort from Donruss compared to sets just a few years prior. There were still many notable and valuable cards to be found within the 1990 checklist.

Perhaps the biggest key cards from the 1990 Donruss set revolve around all-time great players who were entering the twilight of their careers. One of the most iconic is card #1 – Nolan Ryan. As one of the most feared and dominant pitchers in baseball history, any Ryan card from his Express era continues to hold value. While not his first or most sought after card, the 1990 Donruss Ryan shows “The Ryan Express” in a Houston Astros uniform, modeling his classic high leg kick windup. With over 5,000 career strikeouts at that point and still an active starter, this card captured a true pitching legend. Graded examples in PSA/BGS 10 have sold for over $100 in recent years.

Another all-time great featured prominently in the 1990 Donruss set is card #20 – George Brett. Like Ryan, Brett was nearing the end of a Hall of Fame career by 1990 with the Kansas City Royals. He had amassed over 3,000 hits to that point in his career while establishing himself as one of the best pure hitters in baseball history. The photo on the 1990 Donruss Brett card catches him mid-swing and remains one of the more iconic images from his playing days. High graded copies in mint condition have reached upwards of $75-$100 based on the demand for a card capturing a true hitting legend’s late career.

While no rookie cards, the 1990 Donruss set also included early career images of future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin on card #80 and Roberto Alomar on card #112. Both were all-stars by 1990 and well on their way to Cooperstown plaques. Key cards like these that doubled as some of the players’ earliest Topps/Donruss issues outside of their rookie year tend to trade quite well long term for avid team and star collectors. An example would be the 1990 Donruss Larkin, which has climbed to the $25-$35 range for a PSA/BGS 10 over the past decade.

Staying on the theme of future Hall of Famers, card #107 deserves a mention as well – Wade Boggs on the Boston Red Sox. By 1990, Boggs had put together an underrated but phenomenal career batting .357 lifetime to that point while winning 5 batting titles. He would go on to hit over .300 in each of his next 5 seasons as well. The 1990 Donruss Boggs showed him in the middle of his prime and recognition of his hitting prowess has only grown since. Higher graded versions easily top $50 today.

While not a rookie card, one of the true keys and most iconic cards from the 1990 Donruss baseball set came in the form of card #124 – Ken Griffey Jr. on the Seattle Mariners. This was Junior’s second Topps/Donruss issued card after breaking into the majors in 1989 with huge expectations. The photo depicts Griffey exhibiting his elite athleticism and throwing form already as a 20-year old. Of course, he would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and this early Donruss issue remains one of his most epic images. Pristine PSA/BGS 10 copies have changed hands for well over $500 in recent years based on Griffey’s lasting popularity and legend status in the game today.

The biggest draw and value cards from the 1990 Donruss baseball set undoubtedly revolve around the impressive rookie class that year – headlined by none other than Frank Thomas on card #49 as the cover boy. “The Big Hurt” immediately announced his arrival by hitting .271 with 21 home runs as American League Rookie of the Year – a precursor to a Hall of Fame Career. His iconic rookie card image of him crushing a baseball remains among the most hyped and valuable from the entire Junk Wax era. High graded PSA/BGS 10 examples now trade in the $1,000+ range and only figure to increase with time.

A few other notable rookies and their 1990 Donruss rookie cards included Randy Johnson on card #94, who would become arguably the most dominant pitcher of the 1990s. Chipper Jones also had his rookie on card #111 after being drafted #1 overall – foreshadowing a 19 year MLB career and Hall of Fame induction as well. And Jeff Bagwell unleashed his power as card #113 in his rookie year before an all-star run with the Houston Astros. All 3 examples can potentially yield upwards of $100 each in top grades due to the iconic rookie card status and careers that followed.

While the overall 1990 Donruss baseball release doesn’t have quite the same cache as some earlier ’80s sets, it still managed to capture many all-time great players and hall of famers either entering their primes or winding down epic careers. The star power and longevity achieved by the premier rookies like Frank Thomas elevated certain cards to true investing gems for collectors even today. When combined with the fun, classic Donruss design elements and photography of the time, it’s easy to see why certain 1990 Donruss key cards like the Thomas rookie, Griffey, and others mentioned here continue to hold relevance and solid returns for savvy vintage collectors.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 1992 DONRUSS

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The 1992 Donruss baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues of the 1990s. While it didn’t feature the rookie cards of future superstars like Griffey Jr. or Piazza that other sets boasted, the 1992 Donruss set holds tremendous nostalgia and cache among collectors due to the photography, design elements, and memorable players featured. Several factors contribute to making certain 1992 Donruss cards incredibly valuable today.

Perhaps the most coveted and expensive card from the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. sticker. Griffey had established himself as a budding star by 1992 with several outstanding seasons under his belt already. This was his first season with the Seattle Mariners after being traded from the Cincinnati Reds in a blockbuster deal. As such, his iconic smiling photo and bold graphics made his sticker card extremely popular.

Over the years, as Griffey’s Hall of Fame career solidified his status as one of the game’s greats, combined with the rookie card hype for any sticker or parallel version of a star, prices rose significantly. In gem mint condition, a Griffey Jr. sticker now commands upwards of $10,000. Even well-centered near mint copies sell for $3,000-5,000. The rarity and Griffey’s legend make this one of the most coveted 90s cards period.

Another incredibly valuable card from the 1992 Donruss set is the Frank Thomas rookie. Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt” went on to have a spectacular career that landed him in Cooperstown. His rookie is a chase for many collectors, and since it was his true first card issued, it holds added desirability. Mint condition Thomas rookies have sold for over $2,000. Even well-centered near mint copies in the $500-1000 range show the card’s sustained demand.

The Nolan Ryan career highlights card is also highly sought after from the 1992 Donruss release. Featuring one of the most respected and accomplished pitchers in MLB history, along with a visually striking design circling some of his most impressive career stats and accomplishments, the card became a must-have for collectors. In pristine mint condition, a Ryan career highlights has changed hands for well over $1000 before. Its nostalgia and subject matter ensure ongoing interest.

The emerging Andre Dawson and Barry Bonds rookie cards also hold great value. Dawson went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie remains popular, with mint examples selling north of $400. Bonds’s first Donruss issue preceded his earth-shattering performance enhancement aided run in the late 90s and 2000s. Still, collectors recognized his burgeoning talent and five-tool skills depicted. Near mint Bonds rookies have sold for $300-500 in recent years.

Other very valuable 1992 Donruss cards include Robin Yount’s final season issue before retirement, superstar cagirds of frank Thomas, winfield, and Cone, and parallels like the elusive Derek Jeter rookie photo variation. Popular young stars like Felipe Alou, Fred McGriff, and Ozzie Smith see renewed collector interest as well. Veteran greats like Niekro, Brett, and Raines remain widely collected too.

While it lacked the true rookie card bombs of other sets, the memorable photography, graphics, and talent featured made the 1992 Donruss baseball release an instant classic. Years later, inspired by the careers of players depicted and strong nostalgia for the design, premium condition copies of key cards like Griffey Jr’s sticker, Frank Thomas’ rookie, and career highlights of legends like Ryan hold tremendous worth. The sets enduring popularity and attraction for both vintage collectors and investors ensure its valuable cards remain a prime target today.

The 1992 Donruss baseball set endures as arguably the most popular Donruss issue ever due to the factors mentioned. While it may not boast rookies quite on the level of the all-time great Griffey Jr. and Piazza rookie card years, the photography, talent featured, and most valuable serials mentioned give it a very strong foundation of collector interest that makes key issue prices impressively robust to this day. This set’s rich history and desirable cards, headlined by names like Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Nolan Ryan ensure continued fascination and demand.

The 1992 Donruss baseball card release holds an iconic status among collectors and remains a benchmark vintage set. With its memorable design elements, stellar photography, and plethora of stars depicted like Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Bonds, and Nolan Ryan, it ignited nostalgia that burns strong today. As a result, premium condition versions of certain key serials, especially the Griffey Jr. sticker, Frank Thomas rookie, and Nolan Ryan highlights, command outstanding values befitting their popularity and the accomplishments of their featured subjects. This set’s combination of nostalgia, talent featured, and valuable chase cards give it a very stable foundation for ongoing collector interest.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 1986 PRICING

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1986 Donruss Baseball Card Pricing Guide

The 1986 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the 1980s. Featuring classic designs and some of the biggest stars from that era, 1986 Donruss cards continue to be highly sought after by collectors over 30 years later. In this in-depth pricing guide, we’ll examine what key factors influence the value of individual 1986 Donruss cards and provide estimated price ranges for the most valuable rookie and star player cards from the set.

Released in packs, boxes, and factory sets, the 1986 Donruss baseball card set contains 524 total cards. The design features a colorful team logo in the foreground with the player’s picture and stats on a white background. Some consider this one of Donruss’ best overall designs due to its clean and classic look. The photography and production quality is also quite high compared to some other sets from the mid-80s.

Condition and Grade are Key

As with any collectible card, the condition and professional grading of individual 1986 Donruss cards is extremely important when determining their value. Even minor flaws can significantly decrease a card’s worth. Only cards that receive the highest possible grades from services like PSA or BGS can be expected to reach the upper end of estimated price ranges. Here are the general condition/grade guidelines that impact 1986 Donruss card values:

PSA/BGS 10 (Gem Mint): Near flawless, will command highest prices.
PSA/BGS 9 (Mint): Very few flaws, if any. Prices only slightly below a 10.
PSA/BGS 8 (Near Mint): Few noticeable flaws. Still highly valuable at this grade.
PSA 7 (Mint): More evident flaws but centering and edges still strong.
PSA/BGS 6 (Near Mint-Excellent): Clearly has flaws but original surfaces still intact.
PSA 5 and below (Good to Poor): Significant flaws that decrease value significantly.

Rookie Cards to Watch For

As with any vintage set, the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers from 1986 Donruss are extremely valuable, especially in high grades. Here are the most coveted and expensive 1986 Donruss rookie cards on the market today:

Greg Maddux: Even in PSA 8 condition, his iconic rookie fetches $1,000-$2,000. A PSA 10 has sold for over $10,000.
Tom Glavine: Prices start at $500 for a PSA 8 and exceed $3,000 for a PSA/BGS 10 gem.
John Smoltz: $300-$700 range for a PSA 8, up to $2,000+ for a PSA/BGS 10.
Dennis Eckersley: More common but still $100-$300 for a PSA 8 as a rookie.
Mark McGwire: Extremely popular pre-home run chase. $300-$700 in PSA 8 condition.
Frank Thomas: “The Big Hurt” rookie values starting at $150 for a PSA 8.
Ken Griffey Jr: Popular but more common. $50-$150 for a PSA 8 depending on demand.

Star Player Cards to Target

Some of the biggest stars from the mid-80s have 1986 Donruss cards that remain highly collectible based on their career accomplishments and popularity:

Roger Clemens: Consistently one of the most expensive vintage cards. $500-$1,000+ range depending on grade/condition.
Wade Boggs: Known for his accuracy, a PSA 10 recently sold for over $1,000. PSA 8s around $300.
Ozzie Smith: “The Wizard’s” defense makes his cards timeless. $200-$500 for high grade copies.
Rickey Henderson: Steals leader’s cards valued from $150-$400 based on condition.
Kirby Puckett: Popular Twins star. $150-$400 range, especially for PSA 10 quality.
Dwight Gooden/Darryl Strawberry: Mets teammates each $100-$300 depending on grade.

Team and Parallel Variations

There are also several notable parallel and team set variations within the 1986 Donruss set that can increase a card’s value:

Glossy/Matte Parallel: Glossy versions more valuable. Premium for high-grade glossy parallels of stars.
Team Set Variations: Complete team sets highly collectible and premium priced.
Super Veteran Subset: Extremely rare uncorrected printing error variation.
Traded Variations: Cards showing players on new teams more valuable than base rookies.
Printing Plates: Ultra-rare one-of-one plates fetch thousands for top players.

In Closing

As one of the most iconic baseball card sets of the 1980s, 1986 Donruss cards remain a staple in portfolios of vintage collectors. While condition is crucial, rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and the set’s biggest stars will always be in high demand. For collectors looking to add classic pieces to their collections or investors seeking blue-chip vintage investments, 1986 Donruss has proven to stand the test of time. With over 30 years of appreciation, the prices are only expected to continue climbing for this all-time great sports card release.

1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PACK

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most prominent issues during the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Produced by Donruss, it marked another year of the company’s popular style of photo centered baseball cards during a time when interest in the hobby was booming. While many of the individual cards from sets of that time period hold little long term value today, the 1991 Donruss release provides an interesting snapshot of the major league rosters and players from that baseball season.

Some key details about the 1991 Donruss baseball card set include that it contained 792 total cards in the base set. The design featured a full body photo of the player on the front of each card with their name, team, and other select stats printed underneath. On the back, more in-depth stats from the previous season were listed along with a short profile of the player. Some notable rookies included in the set were Andy Pettitte, Chad Ogea, and Javier Lopez who were just starting their MLB careers.

Veteran stars that had cards in the 1991 Donruss release included Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and Ryne Sandberg among many others. The vast majority of the cards featured current major leaguers, but there were also a small number of manager/coach cards and a separate retired player subset. The coding on the bottom front of each card listed the player’s position, batting or throwing hand, and uniform number. The backs featured the classic blue and grey Donruss design that fans of the company’s cards had grown accustomed to.

In addition to the base checklist of common player cards, the 1991 Donruss set also included several special parallel and insert subsets. One of the more popular at the time was the “Diamond Kings” subset which paid tribute to some of baseball’s best hitters with ornate foil stamped photo cards. The “Fortune Teller” cards attempted to predict future achievements for players using psychic imagery on the front. Other subsets included “Team Leaders”, “Top Prospects”, “Record Breakers”, and “Donruss All-Stars”. The parallel variants within included “Giant Photo”, “Embossed”, and “Oily” film stock type inserts with different photo treatments.

The overall photo and design quality of 1991 Donruss was considered solid for the time, with most images having a crisp clarity. The cardboard stock was a bit thinner than some earlier Donruss issues however, signaling the start of the widespread cost-cutting measures the card companies employed to try and keep up with the skyrocketing production demands. The set was packaged primarily in the standard Donruss wax packs containing 11 cards per pack with one per box guaranteed to be of “short-printed” status. Hobby boxes from the time were available containing either 36 or 24 packs.

While not quite as iconic or financially valuable as some earlier 1980s Donruss releases, the 1991 edition still holds strong nostalgic appeal for many players and collectors from that baseball generation. Prices for unopened wax packs and boxes have stabilized in recent years. Individual star player or rookie cards can still appreciate with the right high grade specimens. But for the most part, commons from this era have little monetary worth. They serve mainly as a fun reminder of the 1991 major league baseball season frozen in cardboard form before the bottom fell out on the market.

The sheer number of 1991 Donruss cards produced due to demand during the peak of the trading card craze has led to most examples available today being in fairly well circulated condition. Mint or gem mint 10 rated copies graded by services like PSA or BGS can still fetch a premium for desirable Hall of Fame level players or rookie cards. But for casual collectors, finding an unopened pack or putting together a complete set from commons is still within reach affordability wise compared to earlier 1980s issues.

In the decades since, Donruss has ceased its baseball card production. But the 1991 release endures as a collector’s item that allows fans a visual trip back to that period in the game. While it may lack the high price tags of some vintage sets, those who enjoyed the cards as kids appreciate them today as a fun piece of baseball card history representing the sport during a memorable year. The explosive popularity of the junk wax era in general ensured that products like the 1991 Donruss baseballs cards would be affordably available to collectors for generations to come even after the downward spiral of the later 1990s crashed the once booming hobby marketplace.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set marked the 25th anniversary of the brand and featured some of the biggest names in the sport on the verge of superstardom. While not the flashiest or most creative design compared to competitors like Fleer and Upper Deck who were really pushing the limits of card aesthetics in the early 90s, many consider the 1991 Donruss set to be one of the most important of the junk wax era due to the huge stars it featured as young up and comers. Several of the cards from this 700+ card checklist have transformed into truly valuable collectors items decades later. Here’s a breakdown of the 5 most expensive 1991 Donruss Baseball cards on the secondary market today based on historical sales data from platforms like eBay:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#1) – Often cited as the greatest baseball card of all time, the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from 1991 Donruss is arguably the most coveted modern card in existence. Even in pristine gem mint condition, examples rarely trade hands for under $10,000 today. The record sale price belongs to a PSA 10 quality card that fetched $86,100 back in 2016. What makes Jr.’s Donruss rookie so special is that it captures him at age 21, on the cusp of superstardom with the Seattle Mariners. In the photo, his smooth left-handed swing and youthful exuberance just pops off the card in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and reminiscent of the raw promise he brought to the game. For many collectors and fans, this single card represents the golden age of baseball cards in the late 80s/early 90s before the onset of the junk wax era devalued everything. Condition is critical to the value of this legendary rookie.

Jeff Bagwell Rookie Card (#76) – Bagwell’s assault on the Astros’ record books and underrated Hall of Fame career has elevated his 1991 Donruss rookie into six figure territory for high-grade copies. While raw ungraded examples still trade in the $3,000-5,000 range, Bags’ sterling PSA 10 rookie has sold for as much as $105,000 at auction. He may not have been a true “rookie” in 1991 since he got 163 at-bats the prior year, but this is considered his true first card appearance. Like Griffey’s, it depicts him with the sweet left-handed swing that would terrorize NL pitchers for over a decade. The card’s iconic design and Bagwell’s legendary stat line make it an important part of the hobby’s history.

Chipper Jones Rookie Card (#709) – The face of the Atlanta Braves franchise for well over a decade, Chipper Jones put together a Hall of Fame caliber career and his 1991 Donruss RC has aged extremely well as a result. High grade PSA 10 versions now sell in the $8,000-10,000 range with some exceptional condition copies exceeding $15,000. Even raw near mint to mint examples still pull in the $1,500-3,000 range showing strong residual interest. What makes Chipper’s rookie particularly rare is that it comes from the very end of the hefty 700+ card checklist and was ultra-tough to pull back in the early 90s. Combined with his legendary switch-hitting performances for Atlanta, the card has simply never lost its luster over the long haul.

Derek Jeter Rookie Card (#349) – As one of the true icons of the 1990s Yankee dynasty teams, it’s no surprise that Derek Jeter’s rookies from his debut season of 1991 have retained serious collector interest and value decades later. While not quite as iconic or valuable as his more celebrated 1992 Topps rookie card, high grade versions of Jeter’s Donruss RC still pull in strong 5-figure prices. A recent sale saw a PSA 10 example reach $25,005, though $15,000-$20,000 is a more realistic range for pristine copies today. Even well-centered raw nearmint/mint cards can sell for $3,000-$5,000 showing it has staying power. It’s a fairly basic snapshot of a young Jeter, but it was one of the earliest widely available cards depicting his legendary career.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (#623) – As one of two 300-game winners (Greg Maddux being the other) to emerge from the bountiful 1991 rookie class, Tom Glavine’s Donruss issue has gained tremendous appreciation over time. While never truly a “rare” card, pristine PSA 10 examples are still a tough graded assignment and now sell in the $7,000-10,000 range with some exceptional copies exceeding $15,000. Even raw near mint cards will still fetch $2,000-3,000 today from avid Braves collectors and Glavine fans. He may not have been the biggest name rookie in ’91, but his Hall of Fame caliber career and five-time 20-game winner status have made this one of the key cards for team set builders and Atlanta collectors to possess in top condition.

While cards from stars who never fully panned out like Bobby Witt and Erik Hanson don’t hold the same collectible value today, looking back the 1991 Donruss set managed to feature a truly incredible collection of future Hall of Famers, MVPs, Cy Young winners and franchise players. Even in a down market, examples of the top rookies from the likes of Griffey, Bagwell, Jones, Jeter and Glavine continue to reach new record prices every few years as nostalgia increases and higher grades become scarcer. For fans and collectors who lived through the early 90s baseball card boom, 1991 Donruss will always hold a special nostalgic place in their collections and memories due to the unprecedented star power it managed to showcase all in one single release.

1983 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1983 Donruss baseball card set was the third edition of cards produced by the Donruss company. Like the previous two years, it consisted of 263 total cards including regular and supplemental issues. The design continued with the company’s minimalist style started in 1981 and featured color team photos on a white background. While not as iconic or historically significant as some other sets from the 1980s, 1983 Donruss cards today can provide collectors with value and nostalgia.

Perhaps the biggest story surrounding the 1983 set at the time of its release was the players’ strike that year. The Major League Baseball Players Association went on strike on June 12, leading to the cancellation of over 700 regular season games. This had an impact on card availability and collecting habits. Without regular baseball on television and at the ballpark that summer, the hobby slowed down temporarily. Fewer packs were opened during this period compared to non-strike years.

Today, this limited initial distribution means mint condition 1983 Donruss rookie cards and stars from the set can carry solid value. One of the top rookies was Cal Ripken Jr. of the Baltimore Orioles. As one of the game’s greatest shortstops and iron man, his base rookie card in the set is among the most desirable. In a Near Mint to Mint grade, it tends to sell in the $30-50 range. Higher certified grades above PSA 8 can approach $100 or more due to Ripken’s legendary career and Hall of Fame induction.

Another star third baseman with a noteworthy rookie in the set was Wade Boggs of the Boston Red Sox. Like Ripken, Boggs went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his ’83 Donruss base card remains a popular and affordable rookie option for collectors today. Near Mint examples sell for around $15-25. Of course, certified mint copies could reach $50-75 given Boggs’ 5000 hit milestone. The card has notable value since it was his first issued by Donruss.

Pitching legends like Nolan Ryan and Tom Seaver had plenty of career milestones still ahead of them in 1983 as well. Ryan’s card does not fetch the biggest price but remains a classic for Angels, Astros, and Yankees fans to own. Near Mint copies can be found in the $5-10 range. Seaver was entering his age 38 season but was still an established star after three Cy Young Awards. His ’83 Donruss paper card in NM-MT condition sells around $8-15 online. For vintage Mets fans, it holds reasonable nostalgic value.

Two of the most iconic players whose careers began in the early 1980s are also in the 1983 Donruss set – Rickey Henderson and Ozzie Smith. Henderson’s stellar base rookie in the set is one that always spikes in price during baseball season. Mint copies have reached over $100 before in recent years due to his status as MLB’s all-time stolen base leader. Even ‘Ex’-‘Mt’ graded versions can be found in the $50-75 range usually. Similarly, Ozzie Smith’s smooth defensive wizardry translated into a renowned rookie card that today sells for $30-45 in top shape and holds steady demand.

Continuing down the list of noteworthy ’83 Donruss cards, other stars that deserve mentions based on potential monetary value include Mike Schmidt, Carlton Fisk, George Brett, and Tony Gwynn. The set also boasted supplemental issues not found in 1982 that made appearances by Hank Aaron and Willie Mays collecting pieces once again. Raw mint copies of any core Hall of Famer like Schmidt, Fisk, Brett, or Gwynn usually sell between $5-15. Certified grade examples could double that cost depending on the player due to their legendary careers and status as fan favorites.

Condition is often key when determining a 1983 Donruss card’s specific price, but assessing overall demand trends provides helpful context too. Sets from the early 1980s captured childhood memories for many collectors today in their 30s-50s. This nostalgia factor continues to boost values, especially for the highly regarded rookie cards mentioned. Grading pop report numbers also remain relatively low compared to following years. All of these strengths help preserve enthusiasm for the players, designs, and player/team dynamics of the 1983 season frozen in cardboard form nearly 40 years ago. While not the most valuable vintage set, ’83 Donruss delivers affordable nostalgia and aptly conveys a unique window into the game’s history.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PUZZLE AND CARDS

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Donruss baseball cards have long been a favorite among collectors for their unique puzzle back design and fun inserts. The Donruss company first started producing baseball cards in 1981 as a competitor to Topps, the dominant brand at the time. Donruss cards introduced several innovative features that captured the attention of the hobby. Perhaps their most iconic element was the puzzle back design found on most base cards from the early 1980s through the late 1990s.

On the back of each standard Donruss baseball card was a small square piece of a larger puzzle image. When collectors assembled all the puzzle pieces from a given series, it would reveal a full color team or league photo. This was a novel concept at the time that really engaged card collectors. Kids would eagerly trade and search through their collections to try and complete the puzzles. It added an extra layer of fun and challenge to the experience of accumulating cards.

Some of the most famous and sought after puzzle backs over the years included the 1984 set that depicted the 1983 World Series champion Baltimore Orioles, the 1987 set showing the 1986 World Champion New York Mets, and the iconic 1994 puzzle that featured a close-up shot of superstar Ken Griffey Jr. Completing the full puzzles was quite difficult due to the large number of cards needed. But it was highly rewarding for those who managed to piece the photos together.

In addition to standard baseball cards with puzzle backs, Donruss also produced popular inserts and parallels over the years. One of their most iconic and valuable insert sets is the “Diamond Kings” collection which featured glossy cards highlighting some of the game’s biggest stars. Other popular inserts included “Super Stats,” “Diamond Gems,” “Diamond Anniversary” parallels and more. These inserts within the base sets added to the excitement of the Donruss experience.

Through the 1980s and 90s, Donruss was a fierce competitor with Topps for dominance in the baseball card market. They produced innovative products and signed major players to exclusive contracts which drew many collectors to their brand. Some of their exclusive signees included superstars like Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, Barry Bonds and Cal Ripken Jr. This helped Donruss establish themselves as a serious rival to the long-standing Topps brand.

While their puzzle backs and inserts were a big part of their identity, Donruss also became known for producing some of the most valuable rookie cards in the hobby. Icons like Clemens, Maddux, Bonds, Ripken, and Griffey had extremely popular and valuable rookie offerings in Donruss sets through the 1980s. Griffey’s iconic upper deck rookie from 1989 is one of the most sought after modern cards ever made. Other legendary rookies included Mark McGwire, Frank Thomas, and Tom Glavine. Collecting and chasing these rookie stars helped drive the popularity of Donruss products.

Through the late 1980s and 1990s, Donruss continued to push the boundaries of card design and production. They created innovative parallel and insert sets within their annual baseball releases. The company faced increased competition from brands like Upper Deck which was producing highly popular and premium cards starting in 1989. The baseball card market crashed in the early 1990s due to overproduction which hurt sales of Donruss products.

In the 2000s, Donruss lost their exclusive MLB license and produced regional and independent league sets instead of the traditional Topps competitor releases. Their puzzle backs and inserts largely disappeared from these later era cards as well. Production of Donruss baseball cards ceased for several years in the late 2000s. They have since returned to the hobby in recent years with licensed MLB sets produced by Panini America starting in 2013. These modern Donruss releases still feature many throwback designs and pay homage to the classic puzzle backs and inserts that made the brand so popular originally.

While they no longer compete directly with Topps as they did in their heyday, Donruss remains an iconic brand name among veteran collectors. Their innovative puzzle backs, popular inserts, and valuable rookie stars from the 1980s and 90s solidified their place in card collecting history. Even after ups and downs over the decades, the Donruss brand survives today thanks to their fun, unique designs that captured the imagination of a generation of baseball card enthusiasts. Their puzzle backs, in particular, represent one of the most memorable and beloved concepts in the entire hobby.

DONRUSS 1993 BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 2

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The 1993 Donruss baseball card Series 2 release was one of the most anticipated series of the early 1990s. Coming on the heels of the hugely popular 1992 Donruss set, Series 2 sought to build on the success and momentum of the prior year. While not quite reaching the same heights in terms of sales and collectability, the 1993 Donruss Series 2 set still remains a highly regarded issue among vintage baseball card collectors today.

Released in the summer of 1993, the Series 2 set comprised of 132 total cards with designs and styling very similar to the base 1992 Donruss issue. Like the previous year, each card featured a full color photo of the player on a white background with team logo and player info printed in blue. Border designs were also carried over with a thin blue line encircling each card. The set was split into series letters with Series 2 containing players L through Z as well as additional rookie and star cards.

Some notable rookies included in the 1993 Donruss Series 2 set were Jason Bere, Jermaine Dye, Darren Daulton, and Jeff Conine. All were included amongst the base 132 card checklist. Prospect cards were issued for future stars such as Jeff Bagwell, Frank Thomas, and John Smoltz who had recently broken into the big leagues. These added several more highly sought after “hit” cards to chase after for collectors.

In terms of star power, the 1993 Donruss Series 2 featured superstar veterans such as Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., Kirby Puckett, and Nolan Ryan. The inclusion of these elite players added tremendous value and excitement for collectors at retail. Griffey and Bonds in particular were extremely popular pull cards due to their immense on-field talents and rising status as two of the game’s biggest attractions at the time.

On the secondary market, key rookie and star cards from 1993 Donruss Series 2 carry substantial premiums today. Rookies of Dye, Bere, and Conine can fetch $10-20 each in Near Mint condition while graded rookies have sold for over $100. Prospect cards of future Hall of Famers Bagwell and Thomas are consistently $20-50 cards. The star cards of Bonds, Griffey, Ripken and Puckett are $30-75 depending on grade. The legendary Nolan Ryan tops the value list at $100-200 for his popular Series 2 issue.

Beyond the base checklist, Donruss also produced several insert sets as part of the 1993 Series 2 release. The “Diamond Kings” parallel featured borderless photo variations of star players on diamond-shaped cards. Other inserts included “All-Stars”, “League Leaders”, and “Topps Traded” retro-style reprints. Of particular note was the “Donruss Futures” set highlighting top prospects like Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, and Jason Giambi in their minor league uniforms. These inserts added tremendously to the overall product mix.

When first released in 1993, the Donruss Series 2 set retailed for $1.49 per pack with 11 cards inside (12 in late printings). This price-point made the cards highly accessible in hobby shops and mass-market outlets like Walmart and K-Mart. Strong distribution channels allowed Donruss products to fly off the shelves that summer. The affordability and availability led to the cards being ripped by thousands of young collectors across the country.

In the years since, the 1993 Donruss Series 2 set has maintained a strong collector following. Its classic design aesthetic and star-studded checklist have ensured the set remains a staple in the collections of vintage enthusiasts. While not as rare as the flagship ’92 Donruss base set, Series 2 cards represent an affordable entry point for collectors looking to acquire vintage 90s cardboard of Hall of Famers like Griffey, Bonds, Ripken and Thomas. The rookies also hold nostalgic appeal for those that collected the set as kids in 1993. Nearly 30 years later, Donruss Series 2 endures as one of the most memorable baseball card issues of the early 90s boom.

While not the most valuable vintage set, the 1993 Donruss Series 2 release holds an important place in card collecting history for its affordability, distribution, and star power. Featuring rookies, prospects and superstars of the era, the set captured the excitement of the game at a time of tremendous growth for the hobby. Its classic design has stood the test of time, ensuring the cards remain a staple in collections. For these reasons, 1993 Donruss Series 2 remains a highly regarded issue by vintage enthusiasts to this day.

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