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1983 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1983 Donruss baseball card set holds a unique place in the hobby for several reasons. It was one of the early pre-rookie card issues from Donruss that helped popularize the modern baseball card boom. The set also features some iconic players and rookie cards that remain highly coveted by collectors today. When it comes to high-grade examples that have been professionally graded by PSA, the 1983 Donruss set presents some interesting opportunities and challenges for collectors.

Released in the spring of 1983, the main 313-card Donruss set featured a mix of current major leaguers and popular young stars. Some of the biggest rookie cards include Ryne Sandberg, Rickey Henderson, Eddie Murray, and Robin Yount. Stars of the day like Wade Boggs, George Brett, and Tony Gwynn also received prominent placement in the set. The visual design moved away from the drab team-centric look of the preceding years to brighter, more cartoonish renderings of each player by artist Dan Reilly. While not as classic-looking as some other sets from the era, the 1983 Donruss cards struck a chord with the arcade generation.

When it comes to finding pristine, PSA-graded gems from the set nearly 40 years later, there are some noteworthy aspects. Perhaps most challenging is the flimsiness and quality control issues that plagued early Donruss paper stock. The thin cardboard is prone to dings, creases, and wear over time unless carefully stored in protective sleeves and holders. As a result, high-grade 8s, 9s, and 10s are considerably tougher finds compared to issues using sturdier card stock from the same time period. Another factor is the sheer popularity of the set, which saw millions upon millions of packs opened through the early 1980s baseball card boom. Strong demand continues today, especially for the star rookies, making unmolested mint specimens quite scarce.

On the upside, there are some indicators that bode well for preservation potential. The front-loading design with large central image minimizes text/numbering elements that could rub or peel over time. Reilly’s stylized cartoons also show wear less noticeably compared to tight action shots common on 1950s/1960s cards. While mint 1983 Donruss cards won’t achieve quite the same rarity multiples as pristine vintage tobacco issues, strong examples can still gain substantial value fitting in highest tiers like PSA 8, 9, or MT (Gem Mint) 10. Grading results typically come back a half to full point lower than same condition examples from sturdier ’82/’84 Donruss/Fleer issues as well.

For collectors, the biggest opportunities are found in targeting less heralded but historically significant stars versus the superstar rookie cards. Examples include PSA 8s of Nolan Ryan, Mike Schmidt, and Cal Ripken Jr., which can usually be acquired for a fraction of the cost compared to gems of huge Hall of Fame inductees. Even stars of the era like Eddie Murray, Buddy Bell, and Dave Parker can be obtained in PSA 8 for under $100. For emerging players, strong PSA 9 examples of Ozzie Smith, Dwight Gooden, and Darryl Strawberry usually sell in the $200-$400 range.

When it comes to the true rookie phenoms, securing a high-grade gem grows exponentially more difficult. PSA 9 Ryne Sandberg and Rickey Henderson rookies recently cracked six-figures at auction. A PSA 10 Robin Yount rookie fetched over $50,000 in one of the biggest recent single-card sales from the set. While still considered attainable “whales” by some, these elite specimens have joined the kind of rarefied air inhabited by specimens like the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle. Still, strong PSA 8 examples of the star rookies in the $2,000 to $5,000 range can make suitable centerpieces.

While not the most affordable vintage set to collect in pristine condition, savvy collectors can still find opportunities in PSA-slabbed 1983 Donruss baseball cards. Tracking down intact examples of the iconic stars and rookies fits within most budget levels when targeting the strong PSA 8 tier or solid rookie PSA 9s. With rarity still somewhat attainable compared to predecessors, the soft cardboard and mass production also give collectors a unique preserving challenge compared to issues just a few years before or after. For those up to the task of careful hunting and holdering, the 1983 Donruss set can provide classic baseball memorabilia for generations to come.

DONRUSS BASEBALL 2022 MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2022 Donruss baseball card set was released in February and contained a wide variety of rookie cards, parallels, and stars from the 2021 MLB season. While Donruss is not considered one of the top modern brands like Topps or Bowman, it still offers collectors affordable cards of current players. A select few 2022 Donruss cards have already started to gain significant value due to player performance and scarcity factors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and desirable 2022 Donruss baseball cards on the current market.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Green Parallel /99 – At just /99 printed, the Ronald Acuña Jr. Green parallel is one of the scarcest base cards in the entire set. Acuña is also one of the biggest stars in the game when healthy, making his parallels highly sought after. This parallel frequently sells in the $50-75 range on the secondary market, which is quite high for a standard Donruss base card. Acuña’s talent and limited printing ensure this will remain one of the set’s premier short prints.

Juan Soto Rainbow Foil /25 – As one of the game’s best young hitters, Juan Soto’s cards always hold strong value. His Rainbow Foil parallel from Donruss ’22 takes it a step further with an ultra-low print run of only /25 copies. This parallel commands some of the highest prices in the set, often selling in the $100-150 range. With Soto still just 23 years old, his cards will likely continue appreciating over the long run.

Bobby Witt Jr. Pink Refractor /50 – As the #2 overall pick in the 2019 draft and top Royals prospect, Bobby Witt Jr. was one of the most hyped rookies in ’22. His Pink Refractor parallel from Donruss holds added appeal with a print run of only /50. Witt’s rookie season exceeded expectations as he established himself as a future star. This key parallel routinely fetches $75-100 and should rise further if Witt continues developing into the all-around talent most scouts forecast.

Riley Greene Pink Ice /10 – The #5 overall pick in 2019, Riley Greene had a solid debut for the Tigers in ’22 after injuries delayed his arrival. His scarcest parallel, the Pink Ice at /10 printed, captures maximum attention. Greene is a potential franchise cornerstone, making his low-print rookie cards especially collectible. Most Pink Ice parallels sell in the $150-200 range currently but have plenty of upside as Greene’s career progresses.

Julio Rodríguez Rainbow Foil Auto /10 – As the AL Rookie of the Year in 2022 and new face of the Mariners, Julio Rodríguez had one of the best rookie campaigns in recent memory. His Rainbow Foil Auto parallel from Donruss at an edition of just /10 is the true holy grail from this product. Rodríguez is a budding superstar, so this rare on-card auto will likely appreciate significantly with time. Most sell in the $500-750 range currently but could reach $1,000+ within a few years.

Sandy Alcantara Green Ice Auto /5 – Sandy Alcantara emerged as the ace of the Marlins staff in 2022, posting a 2.28 ERA while leading MLB in innings pitched. The ultra-rare Green Ice Auto parallel of his Donruss rookie card is limited to a print run of only /5 worldwide. Alcantara is still just 26 and signed long-term, giving this card a very strong long-term outlook. Few have even been listed for sale, but expect a card of this caliber and scarcity to command well over $1,000 when offered.

Aaron Judge Rainbow Foil /25 – As the new single-season American League home run king, Aaron Judge had a historic 2022 season for the Yankees. His Rainbow Foil parallel captured the height of his fame with an edition of just /25. Judge is a modern day Yankee icon, so rare parallels like this will hold incredible value long-term. The few that have sold have commanded $500-750, but this price tag seems poised to grow exponentially in the years ahead.

While Donruss may not carry the same brand power as some other modern sets, it still offers affordable access to today’s stars. For savvy collectors, the true gems are the short printed parallels and autographs, which capture maximum scarcity and often gain significant value quickly. The 2022 Donruss set housed some true gems, headlined by the ultrarare Julio Rodríguez and Sandy Alcantara parallels. For years to come, these select few cards seem primed to retain strong collectible appeal in the high-end baseball card market.

1991 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Donruss baseball card set was a milestone release from the popular sports card manufacturer. It marked Donruss’s return to the baseball card market after an absence of two years in 1989-1990. Donruss had been one of the leading brands in the booming 1980s baseball card market but lost that status when parent company Fleer acquired rival Leaf and combined operations. After reorganizing, Donruss was relaunched with the 1991 set which drew collectors back eager to see the latest players.

The set totaled 792 cards and had a mix of rookie cards, stars of the day, and veterans. Some of the top rookies included Bobby Witt, Jeff Bagwell, Dave Martinez, and Darren Daulton. Stars featured prominently included Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, Jose Canseco, Kirby Puckett, and Cal Ripken Jr. among many others. Design-wise, the cards had a classic look harkening back to Donruss’s signature styles from the 1980s. Photographs were brightly colored with a white or gray border surrounding each image. Statistics and career highlights were listed on the back of each card.

Distribution of the 1991 Donruss set was handled through the new parent company, Fleer. Cards could be found in wax packs, factory sets, and retail exclusive inserts. The basic wax packs contained 5 cards each and retailed for about $1 per pack. Factory sets came in cardboard boxes containing all players arranged alphabetically withStatistics and career highlights were listed on the back of each card. Distribution of the 1991 Donruss set was handled through the new parent company, Fleer. Cards could be found in wax packs, factory sets, and retail exclusive inserts. The basic wax packs contained 5 cards each and retailed for about $1 per pack. Factory sets came in cardboard boxes containing all players arranged alphabetically with cellophane wrappers around each mini-sheet of cards.

For collectors looking for something extra, retail store exclusive chase cards provided incentive to hunt across different stores. The most popular was the Sporting News subset from Walmart containing short prints of stars. Kmart offered “Topps-esque” Traded subsets recreating notable transactions from that year. Rival card manufacturer Topps distributed early retail varieties of their flagship set through hobby shops meanwhile, fueling a frenzy among collectors. By summer 1991, the Donruss baseball card market was in full swing again.

In terms of production and collecitbility today, the 1991 Donruss set had a standard printing with no major shortages reported. Inserts like Sporting News and Traded extended the set beyond the base checklist. Key rookie cards like Bobby Witt and Jeff Bagwell gained premium status over the decades. Stars of the era like Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, and Ken Griffey Jr. retained strong followings. The design and photography maintained classic card aesthetics that were appreciated. While not quite reaching the stratospheric levels of some rookie-heavy 1980s sets, 1991 Donruss found dedicated collectors and remained a solid presence in the growing MLB memorabilia market.

In the secondary market of the 2000s and 2010s, the 1991 Donruss set has been a steady seller at online auctions and card shops. Mint and graded rookie cards regularly attract bids in the $100-500 range depending on the player and grade. Star cards can reach above $1000 for top Bonds, Griffey, or Ripken rookies. Complete factory sets still in cellophane usually sell in the $150-300 range. Overall condition of the product has held up well too, a testament to the durable construction and care taken by collectors over decades. The relative affordability of 1991 Donruss cards compared to the 1980s boom era also kept the set accessible to complete or invest in.

For the nostalgia and baseball card collecting community, Donruss’s return to form with their 1991 release was an important milestone. It reignited interest in the brand that influenced the 1980s boom. Design elements like photographs, stats on the back, and inclusion of both stars and rookies defined the collector experience. In stores, chasing hits from packs and retail promotions brought the excitement. Over thirty years later, the 1991 Donruss set still finds an appreciative audience of collectors and remains one of the defining modern issues in the evolution of licensed sports cards. Its legacy helped cement Donruss as a staple in the industry for decades to come.

DONRUSS BASEBALL 2022 GRADED CARDS

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Donruss released their 2022 baseball card set in March of this year, continuing their tradition of producing affordable yet stylish cards for the modern collector. While not as large in scale as some of the flagship brands, Donruss sets have developed a loyal following thanks to innovative designs, throwback aesthetics, and the chance to pull rookie cards of emerging stars.

With the rise of third-party grading over the past decade, many collectors now prefer to slab their most valuable cards in plastic holders from companies like PSA, BGS, SGC and others. This provides authentication, protects the card surface, and can significantly boost resale value – especially for rookie cards. As such, it’s become quite common to see newly released Donruss rookies and other hits quickly cross over into the graded market.

Some of the top graded rookies from Donruss 2022 so far include Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez, Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman, Detroit Tigers pitcher Jackson Jobe, and Boston Red Sox shortstop Marcelo Mayer. All four players were top prospects and are expected to be franchise cornerstones – making their rookie cards some of the most sought after on the modern baseball card market.

Julio Rodriguez had a breakout rookie season that saw him named an All-Star, with many considering him the current favorite for American League Rookie of the Year honors. His Donruss rookie cards have seen tremendous graded price growth, with PSA 10 examples now regularly selling for $300-400 raw. Even PSA 9s are commanding $150-200, showing strong collector confidence in Rodriguez as a true superstar.

Adley Rutschman was the #1 overall pick in the 2019 draft and is viewed as the future catcher for the Orioles. While injuries slowed his debut, scouts still rave about his all-around skills and leadership. PSA 10 Rutschman rookies from Donruss 2022 have already eclipsed the $200 mark, a huge return on investment considering hobby boxes still sell for MSRP. SGC Black label 9.5s have also cracked triple digits.

Jackson Jobe was selected third overall by Detroit in 2021 and made his pro debut this season, showing three plus pitches that could make him a frontline starter. His Donruss rookie remains one of the more affordable high-end graded rookies at $75-100 raw in PSA 10. Even PSA 9s hold steady around $40-50, signaling continued belief in Jobe’s future potential.

Though he spent 2022 in the minors, Marcelo Mayer is already turning heads in Red Sox camp with his advanced hitting ability and athleticism. PSA 10 Donruss rookies have reached as high as $150 on recent eBay sales, with 9.5 BGS Black labels close behind at $125. Given Boston’s storied history of developing shortstops, Mayer could be a true star if he reaches his lofty ceiling.

Beyond the headliner rookies, several other notable young talents and veterans from Donruss 2022 have already transitioned to the graded market:

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers: The 2021 AL Rookie of the Year saw his Donruss rookie reach $80-100 in PSA 10 after a solid sophomore season.

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah: Consistently one of the toughest pitchers to square up, Manoah’s PSA 10 rookie holds at $60-80 with upside.

Seattle Mariners pitcher George Kirby: Showed ace potential as a rookie, with PSA 10s trading hands near $50 despite missing time with injury.

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryson Stott: Hit .234 with 15 HR in his first full season, but PSA 10 rookie holds near $40 with his upside.

Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts: Perennial MVP candidate whose PSA 10 Donruss base card reaches $30-40 despite abundant print run.

New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole: Even for a established ace, his PSA 10 sells around $25-30, underscoring Cole’s star power.

Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr.: PSA 10 of his base card found new support at $20-25 after healthy return from ACL tear.

While not reaching the heights of some flagship brands, Donruss rookie cards – especially when graded – continue finding an engaged collector base willing to speculate on future stardom. With its classic designs and accessibly priced products, the brand remains a fun entry point for both breakers and investors chasing the next generation of baseball greats. As more of the 2022 set crosses over to the slabbed market, there’s ample opportunity to land affordable shares of tomorrow’s biggest names.

PRICE LIST FOR 1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Donruss baseball card set was the seventh issue of Donruss’s popular baseball card lineup. While not as iconic or valuable as some of the earlier 1980s Donruss issues, the 1990 cards provided collectors with a snapshot of that year’s Major League Baseball season and rosters. With 600 total cards in the base set and numerous inserted parallel and specialty subsets, finding accurate price guides and checklists is important for collectors looking to understand the relative value of specific 1990 Donruss cards.

When the set was first released in 1990, card shops and vendors relied on early Beckett Baseball Card Monthly magazine price guides to give collectors a general sense of what common and rare 1990 Donruss rookies, stars, and parallels were worth in mint condition. Without the benefit of decades of hindsight and market data, those initial price lists tended to be quite conservative and generalized. Over the past 30+ years, as the 1990 Donruss set transitioned from the hands of the original young collectors to the modern vintage and investment card collecting scene, a more robust picture of individual card values has emerged.

Some of the earliest and most sought-after 1990 Donruss rookies that originally carried modest $1-3 price tags in the early guides are now worth exponentially more. For example, a PSA 10 graded copy of the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card today commands over $1,000 due to Griffey’s legendary career and status as one of the most iconic players of the 1990s. Other notables like the Juan Gonzalez, Moises Alou, and David Justice rookie cards that were valued around 50 cents to $1 in 1990 have since appreciates to the $15-50 range in high grades. Parallels and autographs of star 90s players can sell for over $100.

Beyond the rookie class, cards of superstar veterans like Rickey Henderson, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Nolan Ryan, and others have held steady or increased in value as well. The prevalence of these player’s names in baseball highlight films and highlight packages ensures continued collector attention. Mint condition versions of these star cards from 1990 Donruss parallel and insert sets regularly trade hands in the $5-20 range dependent upon player and parallel/insert variety.

Key inserts in the 1990 Donruss base issue that are highly sought after include the Traded set, Turn Back The Clock retro reprints, and Franchise Greats retired stars subset. In top grades, individual cards from these specialty inserts can reach $50-100 prices or more for particularly rare subjects like Nolan Ryan’s last career game or vintage reprints of Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Willie Mays. Most common parallel and insert cards outside of the biggest stars more routinely sell in the $10-30 range on auction sites if in pristine condition.

The 1990 Donruss checklist also included many oddball promotions and parallel sets beyond the base issue. Die-cut cards, oddball shaped cards, serial numbered parallels, and award/promo inserts added numerous collecting and investment opportunities beyond the standard base cards. Today, the most valuable 1990 Donruss parallel sets to pursue include the Gold parallel (/150), Diamond Kings (/100), and 1/1 Printing Plates. Complete master sets of the Gold and Diamond Kings parallels can reach $500-1000 depending on quality and availability while individual high-numbered cards are considerably cheaper. Unique 1/1 Printing Plates of even mid-level stars can sell for $100-500 each.

When assembling a price guide for the 1990 Donruss baseball card set, it’s important to consider not just the individual card values but also demand trends. Prices are always fluid based on the size of the collector community for certain players or sets as well as short-term fluctuations in the collectibles market. Market data sites like eBay, PWCC Marketplace, and Collector’s Universe Registry tracking services provide some of the best up-to-date snapshots of recent sales to help collectors determine fair estimated values across all levels of the 1990 Donruss checklist. But as with any vintage sports card venture, condition, scarcity, and the subjective taste of buyers will ultimately determine an individual card’s true worth to collectors.

The 1990 Donruss baseball card set offers a fun and relatively affordable Collecting and investment opportunity for vintage card hobbyists. While the megastars and key rookies will always carry a higher premium, there are plenty of attainable parallel and insert cards around the $10-30 range that provide enjoyment and potential future appreciation. Regular consultation of modern price guides informed by recent market sales data helps collectors of the 1990 Donruss set stay educated on relative values to make smart buying and selling decisions over decades of involvement with this evergreen Baseball card release from the early 1990s.

1994 DONRUSS DIAMOND KINGS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1994 Donruss Diamond Kings set was the second release in Donruss’ ultra-premium Diamond Kings brand. Where the inaugural 1993 set helped pioneer the boom in high-end inserts, ’94 took the concept further by pairing premium on-card autographs with dazzling diamond-encrusted borders on each card. Housed in a luxurious display box and limited to just 2500 sets produced, 1994 Donruss Diamond Kings stands out as one of the most extravagant and desirable baseball card releases of the 1990s.

At the time, Donruss was coming off major success with their base set and inserts like Photo F/X. Looking to capitalize on the growing collector demand for signed memorabilia, they conceived Diamond Kings as a true premium product locked behind a steep $500 price tag. Each 21-card base set featured some of the biggest stars of the day, from Barry Bonds and Greg Maddux to Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas. What made Diamond Kings truly special, though, was that every single one of those 21 cards was hand-signed by the player and encrusted with genuine crystals around the black-and-white border.

In total, over 12,000 authentic signatures were collected for the production run by diligently working with each player or their representatives. Donruss reps would often meet players on the road to have them sign sheets of the Diamond Kings cards directly. This ensured fresh, high-quality on-card autographs throughout. Later, a team of craftspeople carefully set dozens of tiny round-cut clear crystals by hand along the outer edge of every card using microscopic tweezers and precision tools. The result was dazzling flashes of light that complemented the signatures beautifully and truly made each card a work of art.

Inside the lavish display box, collectors found the 21 signed and crystal-bedazzled player cards protected in their own plastic sleeves and aligned in a custom foam cut-out. Accompanying text described the painstaking process that went into crafting each one-of-a-kind piece. But Diamond Kings’ luxurious presentation didn’t stop there. The box lid featured its own signed and crystal-encrusted ‘Master Set’ card that served as a holder for the 21 individual cards. Additional extras like a keepsake booklet and certificate of authenticity with hologram seal drove home that this was no ordinary baseball card product.

Given the $500 price of admission and limited 2500-set production run, 1994 Diamond Kings understandably achieved tremendous scarcity levels and preservation over the decades. While a handful of unopened sets have surfaced at auction, the overwhelming majority still reside in the collections they were originally purchased for. As a result, graded examples fetch astronomical prices when they do come up for sale. PSA 10 examples of star rookies like Griffey or bonds regularly break six-figure thresholds. Even common players signed and slabbed mint can sell for thousands. For interested collectors, intact unopened sets sometimes realize upwards of $20,000 USD when auction houses handle a private sale.

Beyond rarity and condition, another major factor fueling Diamond Kings’ stratospheric values is the cultural impact and precedent it established. Released before the macro collectors’ boom of the late 1990s, it set a new high watermark for extravagance that paved the way for future ultra-premium products. Its pioneering approach to signing sheets ahead of time also streamlined the logistics for chasing thousands of raw autographs at once. And in an era where few insert sets crested above a couple hundred copies, Diamond Kings proved there was appetite for a true small-run luxury release amongst dedicated collectors. This helped shape modern collecting norms where condition-sensitive rarity drives prices to once unthinkable heights.

While not an affordable pickup for most collectors today, 1994 Donruss Diamond Kings continues to captivate the hobby with its impeccable craftsmanship and historic significance. As one of the first true ‘luxury’ releases that really elevated the memorabilia card game, it deserves recognition as a milestone release. Few other card properties so beautifully or effectively merged autographs, precious materials, elite production standards, and strict scarcity into a single ultra-premium collectible experience. For those who could justify the original $500 cost or track down a pristine unopened set today, owning a small piece of Diamond Kings history is a true indulgence and sound long-term basketball investment.

The 1994 Donruss Diamond Kings set broke new ground both creatively and commercially when it launched. By pioneering the use of player-signed cards, decorative crystals, and a small luxury-tier print run, it established a precedent that shapes modern premium memorabilia collecting. Scarcity, craftsmanship, and storied origins have made surviving Diamond Kings some of the most desirable and valuable modern sports cards available to collectors with a serious passion and budget. Few other releases so perfectly defined the opulence and prestige the hobby was growing into during baseball’s golden age of the 1990s.

BEST 1993 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular and valuable releases from the brand during the early 1990s. While not quite as iconic or valuable as some of the classic 1980s Donruss sets, the ’93 edition featured a variety of stars, rookies, and parallel inserts that have held up well over the past few decades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards collectors seek out from this 726-card base set.

Ken Griffey Jr. (card #1) – Widely considered the greatest player of his generation, Griffey was already a superstar by 1993. His iconic upper deck rookie from 1989 is one of the most valuable baseball cards ever printed. While not quite on that level, Griffey’s sharp looking 1993 Donruss card remains highly sought after by collectors. With his sweet swing and effortless style of play, Griffey was already a fan favorite by this point in his career. Many consider this to be one of his best and most iconic baseball card images. PSA 10 Gem Mint copies regularly sell for $100-200.

Barry Bonds (card #27) – Arguably the greatest power hitter of all-time, Bonds was in his physical prime during the early 1990s. By 1993, he was a perennial MVP candidate and one of the game’s most feared sluggers. This sharp looking Donruss portrait shows “The Barry” in the on deck circle, bat ready. Bonds would go on to win his first of an eventual record seven MVP awards later that season. High grade PSA 10 examples can fetch $75-150.

Derek Jeter (card #132) – One of the true superstars and career Yankees, Jeter’s iconic career was just getting started in 1993. As a rookie, he showed flashes of the skills and leadership that would define his Hall of Fame career. This was Jeter’s first major national baseball card appearance. While not a true rookie card since he had prior minor league issues, it remains a key piece for any Jeter PC. PSA 10s trade for $75-150.

Frank Thomas (card #156) – Nicknamed “The Big Hurt,” Thomas was already one of the game’s most feared sluggers by 1993. That season he would win his first of two MVP awards while hitting .317 with 41 home runs. This sharp Donruss portrait shows the muscular Thomas in the on deck circle, bat at the ready. High grade PSA 10 versions can reach $100-200.

Chipper Jones (card #166) – One of the true superstars of the 1990s and 2000s, Jones’ Hall of Fame career got off to an electrifying start. As a 21-year-old rookie in 1993, he hit .253 with 18 home runs and helped lead the Braves to a World Series title. This was Chipper’s first major national card appearance and remains a key piece for any Braves or Jones PC. PSA 10s are $75-150.

Roberto Alomar (card #191) – Already a two-time Gold Glove winner by 1993, Alomar was one of the game’s premier second basemen. That season he would hit .323 with career highs of 14 home runs and 71 RBI while leading the Blue Jays to another World Series title. This sharp Donruss image shows the athletic Alomar fielding a ground ball. PSA 10s trade between $50-100.

Craig Biggio (card #221) – One of the true iron men of baseball, Biggio was already an All-Star caliber player by 1993 in his fifth MLB season. That year he hit .251 with 14 home runs and 65 RBI primarily as Houston’s second baseman. This marked one of Biggio’s early prominent baseball cards before he transitioned to catcher later in his Hall of Fame career. PSA 10s sell for $50-100.

Tom Glavine (card #245) – A future Hall of Famer and one of the best lefties of his generation, Glavine was already establishing himself as an ace by 1993. That season he went 20-8 with a 2.67 ERA to finish third in NL Cy Young voting. This sharp Donruss image shows Glavine on the mound, about to deliver to the plate. PSA 10 copies can reach $75-150.

Greg Maddux (card #246) – Arguably the greatest pitcher of the 1990s and one of the all-time greats, Maddux was in his prime during this era. The 1993 season saw him go 20-11 with a stellar 2.36 ERA and his first of four straight Cy Young awards. This classic Donruss portrait remains one of Maddux’s most iconic baseball cards from his dominant years in Atlanta. PSA 10s trade between $100-250.

Randy Johnson (card #327) – Already a power lefty ace by 1993, “The Big Unit” was on the verge of superstardom. That season he went 16-14 with a 3.24 ERA and 284 strikeouts for Seattle. At 6-foot-10, Johnson truly towered over everyone on the field in a way no one had seen before. This imposing Donruss image shows just how massive the Big Unit was in his physical prime. PSA 10s can reach $75-150.

Parallel Inserts – In addition to the base set, 1993 Donruss also featured several popular parallel insert sets that added value and scarcity. The Gold Foil parallels (1/750 odds) featured gold foil lettering on players like Griffey, Bonds, and Maddux. These parallel the base design but with gold treatment. The Action All-Stars parallels featured colorful photo variations of stars like Thomas, Biggio, and Bagwell. Both parallel sets in high grades are valued significantly above their base counterparts.

The 1993 Donruss set remains a highly collectible release due to its star power roster and memorable photography. While not as rare or iconic as some 1980s Donruss sets, key rookie and star cards from ’93 have held up extremely well. The base cards of stars like Griffey, Bonds, Maddux, and Big Unit remain affordable for most collectors compared to their upper deck and flagship counterparts from the same year. Add in the desirable parallel inserts and this set has plenty to offer for both vintage collectors and investors alike nearly 30 years later.

1984 DONRUSS BIG BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1984 Donruss Big set was one of the major releases for baseball cards during the 1984 season. Following up on their popular “Big” sets from 1982 and 1983, Donruss once again produced oversized cards for the 1984 season that featured more photographic coverage than standard size cards of the time. These Big cards were quite popular with collectors due to their larger size and the enhanced photography they offered to display players.

Some key aspects of the 1984 Donruss Big set:

The set featured 330 total cards and included all Major League players from 1983 as well as any notable rookie cards. The design was similar to previous Donruss Big sets with a blue border and pink/blue team logo at the top.

Photography on the cards was generous, with most displaying close-up headshots of players or full body shots. This allowed collectors a more detailed look at players compared to thinner cards of the era. The photos were also generally of good quality print.

Rated among the top rookie cards in the 1984 Donruss Big set were Bruce Sutter, Ryne Sandberg, Rick Sutcliffe, Willie McGee and Don Mattingly. All of these players went on to have successful MLB careers and their rookie cards remain popular with collectors today.

Other notable inclusions were the final cards issued of retiring legends like Brooks Robinson, Ron Guidry and Phil Niekro. These are now regarded as iconic retirements by fans who followed their careers.

The design included statistics such as batting and pitching averages from the previous season on the back of each card. Additional career stats and a short blurb was also included about many veterans.

At the time of release, the larger cards retailed for $0.49-$0.69 each compared to around $0.10 for standard cards. The price point was higher but still affordable for kids and adults to purchase packs and complete the full set.

In the decades since its release, the 1984 Donruss Big set has become an icon representing the era when oversized cards started to lose popularity to smaller, stockier designs. Its integration of sharp photography in an easy-to-collect 330 card checklist has kept it a favorite among vintage collectors to this day. Even modern repack products still pay tribute to the classic Donruss Big designs of the early 1980s.

The debut rookie cards of Sandberg, Sutter, Sutcliffe and McGee in particular are mainstays in team and player collecting guides. While production numbers were high for 1984 Donruss cards overall, the larger sizes meant fewer Mint and Gem Mint quality specimens survive today. This scarcity has boosted valuing of high-grade rookies and stars from the set considerably over recent vintage card price guides.

In the recent entertainment of “card flipping” or seeking investment potential in sports collectibles, 1984 Donruss Big cards featuring the all-time great rookies in top condition can sell for thousands of dollars through major auction sites. For the average collector, even well-kept common players still hold nostalgic value from the early years they started their hobby.

Some other unique qualities that set the 1984 Donruss Big release apart include:

The use of posed action shots and candids captured players both on and off the field in ways seldom seen before or since on cardboard. Having room for larger photographs was the main draw of the oversized format.

Outside of the highest rookie stars, even commons retain a charm because of the photography and fun team designs on the borders. This differs from modern sets where base cards focus more on stats than imagery.

Traded updates and rookie call-ups were issued through the Donruss Traded set later in 1984. This provided the full season stats and team moves for players, important for collectors chasing complete rosters.

The large cards are easier for young hobbyists to handle compared to thin modern stock. For pre-teens in the 1980s, the Donruss Big cards were the perfect entry point into their baseball memorabilia collections.

So while there were many quality baseball card releases throughout the decade of the ’80s, the pioneering 1984 Donruss Big set stands out for raising the bar in terms of photographic content within the limitations of cardboard. Modern digitally enhanced cards can’t replicate the authentic retro feel of these classic oversized players from a pivotal year when the hobby started gaining mass popularity. Even today, their larger-than-life presence remains a fun link to baseball’s rich past.

BEST 1987 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most popular and highly collected issues from the late 1980s. While not as iconic or valuable as some other vintage sets from that era, the ’87 Donruss cards still hold nostalgia for many collectors and contain some true gem cards that are highly sought after to this day. With 792 total cards in the base set plus additional inserts, the 1987 Donruss release featured a wide range of stars, rookies, and future Hall of Famers to keep collectors busy searching packs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from this classic 80s release.

One of the most coveted rookie cards from the 1987 Donruss set is none other than Toronto Blue Jays slugger John Olerud. As the #3 overall pick in the 1989 draft, Olerud went on to have a stellar 17-year MLB career and was known for his elite batting eye and consistency at the plate. His rookie card is a true gem in pristine condition due to its rarity and the player’s accomplishments. Graded examples in Mint condition regularly sell for well over $100. Another highly sought rookie is that of Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Curt Schilling. Though he wouldn’t break out as a true ace until later in his career, Schilling established himself as one of the game’s best postseason pitchers of all time. His ’87 Donruss RC remains quite valuable to this day.

In terms of superstar veterans, few can top the 1987 Donruss card of New York Mets first baseman Keith Hernandez. Already a seasoned veteran and coming off a World Series title with the Mets, Hernandez’s smooth left-handed swing made him one of the best hitters of the 1980s. His card remains one of the most iconic from the set. Another true icon from the late 80s is Oakland Athletics slugger Jose Canseco. Already well on his way to 40/40 status, Canseco’s rookie season power surge made him a fan favorite. His ’87 Donruss issue shows him in the classic A’s yellow and green colors and is a highly collectible card for any fan of the Bash Brother era.

Two other true Hall of Fame talents that are highly sought in the 1987 Donruss set are Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones and Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tom Seaver. As one of the greatest switch hitters in MLB history, Jones’ rookie card holds nostalgia for collectors of the era. Seaver meanwhile was already a first-ballot Hall of Famer by 1987 but remained a dominant force on the mound. Both cards command strong prices today. Another Braves star, pitcher Tom Glavine, has one of the nicer rookie cards from the set as well. Glavine would go on to have a first-ballot HOF career mostly with the Braves and Mets.

In terms of oddball cards that stand out, the 1987 Donruss set featured “Traded” variants for players that switched teams in the offseason. Notable examples include the traded cards of slugger Andre Dawson (from Cubs to Red Sox) and pitcher Nolan Ryan (from the Astros to the Astros). Both were superstar veterans by 1987 and their traded variants carry premiums. The set is also known for its “Diamond Kings” parallel subset, which featured foil treatment on a selection of star players. High-grade examples of Diamond Kings cards for the likes of Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Rickey Henderson are big ticket items.

When it comes to team sets, collectors love to track down complete runs featuring their favorite franchises. Popular team sets from the 1987 Donruss issue include the Toronto Blue Jays, led by rookie sensation Olerud; the New York Mets, powered by Hernandez and others; and the Oakland Athletics, headlined by Canseco. Other strong team sets include those of the Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and Atlanta Braves. For collectors focused on a specific franchise, completing the 1987 Donruss team set can be a fun and rewarding collecting goal.

While not the most iconic vintage baseball card set, 1987 Donruss remains hugely popular with collectors due to its memorable rookie cards, true superstar veterans of the era, and nostalgia for 80s baseball cards in general. Keys like the Olerud, Schilling, and Canseco rookies as well as stars like Hernandez, Jones, and Seaver ensure this issue stays relevant in the hobby. For anyone collecting cards from the late 80s, finding and completing team sets from the 1987 Donruss release is a must. The combination of stars, oddballs, and parallels in this 792-card base set provide something for everyone.

1989 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1989 Donruss baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors as one of the more valuable vintage card releases from the late 1980s and early 90s. While it didn’t feature the huge stars that Topps highlighted in ’89 like Ken Griffey Jr. and Roger Clemens in their rookie cards, Donruss still managed to produce several key rookie cards and short prints that have gained tremendous value over the past 30+ years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable rookie and short print cards collectors seek out from the 1989 Donruss baseball release.

Perhaps the most well known of the valuable rookie cards from the ’89 Donruss set is Kirby Puckett’s. As a member of the Minnesota Twins, Puckett went on to have a hall of fame career that culminated in winning World Series MVP awards in 1991 and 1992. His defensive skills and hitting prowess made him a fan favorite. In 1989 Donruss, Puckett was still early in his career but showed glimpses of the star potential he would fulfill. His rookie card, while not nearly as scarce as others due to a higher print run, still demands a premium price today. Graded PSA 10 examples can sell for over $1,000 while PSA 8s still bring $100-200.

Another rookie card that has greatly increased in value is that of Randy Johnson. “The Big Unit” went on to have one of the most distinguished pitching careers in MLB history, striking out over 4,800 batters during his 22-year career. In 1989 with the Montreal Expos, collectors got their first glimpse of the 6’10” flamethrower. His Donruss rookie is much scarcer than Puckett’s so even lower grade copies in PSA 5-7 condition can sell for $50-100. Higher grades above a PSA 8 have been known to surpass $1000.

Two short print rookie cards from the ’89 Donruss set that excite collectors are those of Matt Williams and Jeff Bagwell. Williams burst onto the scene with the San Francisco Giants in 1987 and went on to have a stellar career that included winning a batting title in 1992 when he hit .336. His rookie, which is printed on a glossy paper stock versus the standard matte finish, is often valued at $150-300 even in lower grades. Bagwell’s short print rookie is perhaps even more valued given his hall of fame career spent largely with the Houston Astros. This tough-to-find card regularly sells for $500-1500 across all grades with PSA 10s reaching several thousand.

Another short print card collector’s prize is the Ken Griffey Jr. photo variation. While Topps owned Griffey’s true rookie card rights in 1989, Donruss still managed to secure the rights to photos from his rookie season with Seattle. In the standard Donruss set, Griffey’s photo has a blue tint giving it a “flasher” look. But there also exists a rarer print variation with a true color photo that pops much more vividly. These photo var rookies are highly sought after by Griffey PC collectors and have been known to bring over $1000 even in lower graded condition.

Donruss also featured several stars of the late 80s in tough-to-find short printed parallels in 1989. The Frank Viola and Dennis Eckersley SPs are examples that regularly sell for $250-500 each in top grades due to their scarcity and depicting players consistently in Cy Young award discussions in the late 80s. Another short print card that gains more attention each year is that of Barry Bonds. While not technically a rookie in ’89 Donruss, Bonds burst onto the scene in 1986 and was well on his way to being recognized as the game’s best hitter by the end of the 80s. His SP parallel is rarely offered for sale but has still managed to eclipse the $1000 mark in high grades.

One of the most visually striking inserts from 1989 Donruss is the “Diamond Kings” parallel set. Featuring parallel images of thirty star players woven into diamond-patterned cardboard holders, these inserts really popped on card shop shelves in the late 80s. Today they remain desirable for any premium 80s/90s card collection. Keys like the Ozzie Smith, Tony Gwynn and Nolan Ryan Diamond Kings can often command $150-300 each in top centered, well preserved condition. The rarer finds showcasing Andre Dawson, Will Clark and Don Mattingly have even been known to crack the $500-1000 range for pristine PSA 10 quality.

And finally, while not technically a short print, collectors are always on the hunt for 1989 Donruss puzzles and O-Pee-Chee puzzle cards featuring covers and puzzles focused around the All-Star Game held at Anaheim Stadium in 1989. Complete puzzle cards often sell in the $50-100 range while some of the more desirable puzzle pieces like Rickey Henderson or Wade Boggs singles can sell in the $25-50 range depending on condition for PSA 8s and 9s. The puzzles represent a fun insert set from the late 80s Peak Donruss era that maintained appeal as collectibles on their own accord outside the standard card checklist.

While Ken Griffey Jr. and Roger Clemens dominated the rookie card conversation from 1989, shrewd vintage baseball card collectors know the value to be found with key short prints, photo variations, insert sets and star player cards hidden within the 1989 Donruss set released over 30 years ago. Keys from rookie standouts like Kirby Puckett and Randy Johnson as well as tough pulls like the Frank Viola SP continue gaining increased recognition which pushes prices higher each year. For avid 80s/90s collectors, discovering pristine top graded examples from this fun and visually aesthetically pleasing Donruss flagship set is always exciting knowing the steady returns on value achieved over the long run.