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TOP MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has been popular for over 150 years. As the years have passed, some cards have increased greatly in value and become extremely rare and sought after. This has led to certain vintage baseball cards being sold at auction for astonishing prices. Here are the details on the top 10 most expensive baseball cards ever sold according to reporting from industry experts like Beckett and PSA/DNA:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – $3.12 million

The legendary T206 Honus Wagner card has long been considered the “holy grail” of baseball cards due to its rarity, historical significance, and association with one of the game’s early superstars. It’s estimated only 50-200 genuine Wagner cards still exist today in circulation. What makes this Wagner so special is it earned a PSA NM-MT 8 grade, one of the highest condition examples known. In 2016, it became the first card to break the $3 million barrier in a private sale. The buyer has kept their identity a secret and the card remains one of the most desirable in the hobby.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – $2.88 million

Mickey Mantle is remembered as one of the greatest switch hitters and power hitters in baseball history. His 1952 Topps rookie card has achieved legendary status too. This example that sold in 2018 for $2.88 million was graded PSA NM-MT 8, representing superior eye appeal. It had bold colors and sharp details that captured Mantle’s stature and talent at the start of his historic career. The card demonstrated there is still huge demand for high grade copies of The Mick’s rookie card over 65 years later.

1909-11 T206 Cy Young – $3.12 million

Cy Young was among the first generation of baseball superstars at the dawn of the 20th century. To own a relic of his playing days in such extraordinary condition represents one of the finest collectibles from the early years of the sport. The T206 card of Young that sold in 2016 for $3.12 million achieved the highest price reached at the time for any trading card. It earned an incredible PSA NM 8.5 grade with sharply detailed images that helped portray why Young is still considered the best pitcher in baseball history with over 500 career wins.

1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson – $3.36 million

Walter Johnson is remembered as one of the hardest throwers ever to grace a pitching mound. His sheer dominance as a power pitcher made him a legend of baseball’s deadball era. Just as with Cy Young, to own an example of Johnson’s T206 card from the pinnacle of his Hall of Fame career is an amazing piece of history. One example achieved the highest price paid for any Walter Johnson card after selling for $3.36 million in 2016 as a PSA NM-MT 8. Few could turn down a chance to possess this iconic relic of “The Big Train” at the height of his fame.

1998 SP Authentic Premier Roger Clemens – $3.63 million

Roger Clemens is arguably the greatest pitching pitcher of his era with over 350 career wins and a record seven Cy Young Awards. His 1998 SP Authentic Premier rookie card features a rare on-card autograph and jersey swatch from Clemens’ record-setting 1986 season with the Boston Red Sox. This incredible 1/1 parallel received a perfect PSA GEM-MT 10 grade. At auction in August 2022, it blew past its estimate to set new marks as the most valuable modern era card ever sold and the second highest price achieved for any trading card in history.

1952 Topps Roberto Clemente – $4.0 million

Roberto Clemente was not just one of baseball’s first Latino superstars but regarded as one of the greatest right fielders to ever play. Tragically, his life and career were cut short in a 1972 plane crash at age 38 during a relief mission to Nicaragua. His legacy and legend have only grown since. An example of Clemente’s 1952 Topps rookie card that was graded PSA NM-MT 8 sold for $4 million in 2021, showcasing there remains tremendous fascination with relics from the early days of this Hall of Famer.

1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson – $4.47 million

“Shoeless Joe” Jackson was one of the most gifted hitters of the deadball era, batting over .350 five times. But the infamy of the 1919 “Black Sox” scandal still overshadows much of his career. While banned from baseball for life due to his role in the fix, his talent on the field can’t be denied. A pristine T206 card of Jackson graded PSA NM 8 sold in August 2022 for a record $4.47 million, demonstrating the allure that cards from this era still hold despite some unsavory history attached to their subject.

1913 Brickley’s Curtain Raiser Babe Ruth – $5.0 million

Babe Ruth remains one of the most iconic figures in all of American sports history thanks to his dominance as both a pitcher and hitter in his baseball career. After already establishing himself as a star with the Boston Red Sox, this ultra-rare pre-rookie card featuring “The Bambino” in an early independent league is one of the earliest relics depicting the legend himself. A pristine PSA 8 copy became the first trading card to break the $5 million record in May 2019. For collectors, it represented owning a holy grail.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – $5.2 million

As alluded to earlier, the T206 Honus Wagner is king when it comes to the most valuable trading cards. A new alleged record was set when a PSA NM-MT 8 example sold privately in 2021 for a staggering $5.2 million. While no price was confirmed, it underscored Wagner’s iconic status over 100 years after his playing days. Few cards have become so ingrained in popular culture or signified the pinnacle of the collecting hobby quite like the revered Wagner. If reports are true, it shows no signs of slowing as a collectible phenomenon anytime soon.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – $5.2 million

And taking the top spot is another Mickey Mantle card. Not just any Mantle rookie either, but quite possibly the finest known copy in existence. Graded PSA NM-MT 10 with superior eye appeal, it achieved the highest auction price on record when it sold in January 2022 for $5.2 million. The sale represented the pinnacle for both vintage cards and those featuring The Mick. It’s difficult to foresee any Mantle, never mind his legendary rookie, climbing higher than this pristine example that captured him at the absolute zenith of his card’s collectible peak. For a card over 70 years old, it was a sports memorabilia landmark.

These 10 baseball cards show the immense interest, passion, and financial muscle that exists among die-hard collectors for pieces of the national pastime’s history, lore and great players preserved in the oldest trading card format. As the years continue rolling by, it will be fascinating to track if any of these price ceilings get broken or if entirely new unprecedented levels are achieved. One thing that seems clear – the cardboard relics of baseball yesteryear like Honus Wagner, Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle may never completely lose their magic or stratospheric collectible value.

MOST EXPENSIVE BRAND BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to collecting vintage and iconic sports cards, few command the attention and dollar figures of the most expensive and coveted baseball cards in existence. These rare pieces of cardboard have stood the test of time, maintaining or growing in value as new generations appreciate their historical significance and superb condition. Here are some of the priciest and most renowned baseball cards that have sold at auction for astronomical prices, truly representing the cream of the crop for devoted collectors.

Honus Wagner – 1909-11 T206 – $6.6 million
The undisputed king of cards, the ultra-rare Honus Wagner is essentially the holy grail for collectors. Only an estimated 50-200 genuine examples are believed to still exist in the world from the estimated 60 that were originally printed in the 1909-11 T206 tobacco brand series. What makes the Wagner so coveted is that it captures one of the earliest superstars of the game at the peak of his career. In the most expensive card sale ever, a PSA NM-MT 8 Wagner sold for $6.6 million in 2016 through Goldin Auctions. The buyers were Dodgers part-owners and card authorities Bill Goodwin and Patrick Hayashi. With such a miniscule surviving population and being one of the first true “cardboard collectibles,” the Wagner is likely to retain the top spot among the most valuable cards in history.

Mickey Mantle – 1952 Topps – $5.2 million
Taking the second highest public sale amount is the iconic Mickey Mantle rookie from the 1952 Topps set. Like the Wagner, only a small number of the Mantle rookie cards are known to still exist in high grades. One of the finest examples, a PSA NM-MT 8.5 copy, sold for $5.2 million in 2021 through Heritage Auctions, setting a new record for a modern-era card (post-war issues). As one of the sport’s enduring heroes and easily its most prized rookie card, it’s easy to see why the ’52 Topps Mantle generates such astronomical prices at auction from diehard collectors. Few cards can boast a pedigree as impressive as the ’52 Topps Mickey Mantle.

Mike Trout – 2009 Bowman Draft Chrome Superfractor – $3.9 million
Breaking into the multi-million dollar realm issued within the modern collecting era is the ultra-rare Mike Trout superfractor from 2009 Bowman Draft. Trout had already displayed his incredible 5-tool talents as a teenager but had yet to reach the MLB level. Only five of the 1/1 refractor parallels were produced for this debut Trout issue, making each one among the most difficult cards in the world to obtain. In August 2020, one of the Trout superfractors crossed the auction block through Goldin, achieving $3.936 million with bidding, demonstrating his current status among the game’s finest talents commands extraordinary prices from collectors. At just 31 years old, Trout’s career is still unfolding, so it’s very possible this single could climb even higher in value with time.

1909-11 T206 Johnny Evers – $3.12 million
Beyond the ultra-rare Wagner, the other highly acclaimed star from the pioneering T206 set is second baseman Johnny Evers. Like the Wagner, the Evers has an estimate production run in the 50-200 range among what was likely originally printed. One of the finest graded T206 Evers cards ever offered publicly, a PSA Authentic AL4.5 Example, achieved a staggering $3.12 million at auction in 2016 from SCP Auctions. The sale demonstrated the immense value assigned by collectors to any example from the legendary ’09-’11 Tobacco brand issues, especially ones approaching the peak condition attainable over a century later.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson – $2.88 million
Joining Evers and Wagner as one of the most revered subjects within the groundbreaking T206 set is future Hall of Fame hurler Christy Mathewson. Known as “The Christian Gentleman” for his impeccable style and skill on the mound, Mathewson became one of the game’s first true superstars in the early 20th century. An SGC Authentic AL 4.5 graded example of the Mathewson card crossed the auction block in 2013 where it achieved the then-record amount of $2.435 million. That stood as the most expensive baseball card sold until 2016 when it was surpassed by the $2.88 million Hammerin’ Hank record. With under 200 surviving, the T206 Mathewson remains among the most prized vintage issues chase by aficionados.

1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson – $1.47 million
Sometimes nicknamed “Shoeless Joe” for his preference to play without footwear, Joe Jackson was one of the deadliest sluggers of the Deadball Era. His career and legacy was unfortunately tainted by his alleged involvement in the infamous 1919 Black Sox scandal. His skills and stats on the diamond are undeniable. Though not quite in the same conversation as the superstars likes Wagner, Evers, and Mathewson, Jackson’s T206 card still maintains monstrous value given the set’s appeal and rarity factors. In 2014, a PSA Authentic example sold for an astounding $1.47 million, standing at the time as the most ever for a Jackson card issued before 1920. His combination of on-field talent and controversial history keeps interest high among collectors.

1968 Topps Nolan Ryan – $900,000
While the cards above it are all near century-old tobacco issues, the 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie makes this prestigious list for being such an iconic modern-era debut. “The Ryan Express” would go on to author one of the most illustrious pitching careers in baseball history, setting numerous records along the way. Graded a PSA 9, one of the all-time finest known examples of this coveted issue sold in a November 2021 auction for $900,000, demonstrating Ryan’s lasting star power. As one of the most easily recognized and historically significant rookies from the hobby’s Golden Age of the 1960s, the ’68 Topps Ryan will likely remain one of the blue-chip post-war cardboard collectibles.

1952 Topps Jackie Robinson – $750,000
As a cultural pioneer who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier as the first African American player of the modern era, Jackie Robinson’s impact cannot be overstated. His rookie season of 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers in the year after WWII helped usher in integration and new attitudes across the country. Naturally, his 1952 Topps card remains massively significant. In pristine near-mint condition, a Robinson rookie recently sold in August 2021 for an astounding $750,000, representing collectors’ continued high esteem for this historic issue as an important piece of sports and societal history. Few cards can ever compete with the social and symbolic value of the 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson.

1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee – $690,000
The late Hall of Famer Sherry Magee enjoyed great success as a hitter and fielder in the Deadball Era before WWI, including a stagger .331 lifetime batting average. His prominent place in T206 history is due to the extreme rarity of high-grade examples surviving over a century later. In 2013, SCP Auctions facilitated a sale of a PSA AM 4.5 Magee to a Delaware collector for $690,000, which stood for years as a record price for the issue. At the time, it further exhibited the immense sums collectors were willing to spend on the most condition-sensitive tobacco cards. With an estimated print run lower than 150, the Magee can truly astound at auction.

These represent just a small sample of the type of truly exceptional vintage and modern baseball cards that ignite the collector market by achieving previously unthinkable price levels. With new auction records constantly being set, it’s clear that the intense demand will continue to see certain especially rare and important issues appreciate greatly over time and maintain their elite status among investors and aficionados of the card-collecting pastime. While out of financial reach for most, these 10 cards stand as the most expensive and renowned that help define the high-end hobby. Their historical significance and superior condition captures the imagination of devoted collectors willing to spend fortunes to preserve a small piece of baseball’s legacy.

MOST EXPENSIVE BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman set was highly anticipated by collectors due to another stellar rookie class headlined by prospects like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Shohei Ohtani appeared in previous Bowman issues. While it’s still early, some major league stars and top prospects have already seen their rookie cards from the 2023 Bowman set command big money on the secondary market. Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive 2023 Bowman cards so far:

Julio Rodríguez, Mariners – The reigning AL Rookie of the Year had another massive season in 2023 and quickly became one of the brightest young stars in baseball. Not surprisingly, his chrome and paper rookie cards have been some of the highest priced cards from the 2023 Bowman set. Julio Rodríguez autograph and memorabilia cards have sold for over $1000 raw, with top PSA 10 examples going for $2500 or more. His base chrome rookie fetched up to $500 in top grades upon release.

Oneil Cruz, Pirates – The 6’7″ shortstop dazzled scouts with his rare blend of size and athleticism, and he started to tap into that huge upside in his rookie campaign with the Pirates in 2023. Cruz’s autographs and memorabilia cards were tough pulls from Bowman and have sold for $500+ even in raw form due to the hype around his future potential. Top PSA 10 versions of his base chrome card sold for $400-500 each.

Riley Greene, Tigers – After debuting in late 2022, Greene broke out as a full-time starter for the Tigers in 2023 and looks like a budding star catcher. As one of the top prospects in the 2020 Bowman Draft set, Greene fever has collectors excited about his 2023 Bowman rookies as well. His autographs have reached $400-500 raw on eBay while a PSA 10 chrome sold for nearly $300 right after release.

Jasson Dominguez, Yankees – Still waiting to make his pro debut due to injuries, Dominguez remains one of the most hyped international prospects ever. That creates huge demand for any of his new rookie cards. Rare 1/1 parallels of his 2023 Bowman autograph have sold for over $2000 raw on secondary markets. Even base autographs reached $400 despite not having stats to back up the hype yet.

Bobby Witt Jr., Royals – After a strong rookie campaign that saw him finish 2nd in ROY voting, Witt Jr. is one of the new young stars in the game. Any Witt Jr. cards, including his 2023 Bowman rookies, generate big buzz. Autographs have sold for $800+, while top PSA 10 chromes have reached $500 already from this set.

Druw Jones, Braves – As the highest-drafted player in 2023 who was also the son of MLB star Andruw Jones, Druw generated huge interest before even debuting professionally. Rare autographed parallels from Bowman have sold for $600-700 raw while base autographs reached $250-300. With his bloodlines and upside, Jones rookies hold great long term potential.

Mickey Moniak, Phillies – After years of hype, Moniak started to realize some of his potential in his first full MLB season with the Phillies in 2023 and was even an All-Star. That renewed belief in his future has created strong early demand for his 2023 Bowman rookies, with autographed cards selling for $350+ and top chromes at $200.

Eury Pérez, Giants – Signed for big money as an international free agent, Perez created buzz with his long-term upside even though he’s yet to debut stateside. Low-numbered parallels of his Bowman autographs reached $450 raw, showing collectors are willing to speculate on his talents seen in video scouting reports.

Of course, this is still a very early read on card values from the 2023 Bowman set, as the true long-term keys will be how these rookies develop over the coming years. But this rookie class seems to hold quite a few future stars based on the demand already seen for their fresh cardboard. It will be exciting to see whose rookies from this set end up as all-time valuable gems in the years ahead.

MOST EXPENSIVE GARY SHEFFIELD BASEBALL CARDS

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Garry Jerome Sheffield is a former American professional baseball right fielder who played MLB from 1988 to 2009. Known as one of the hardest players in baseball to strike out, Sheffield established himself as an elite power and run producer throughout his career. He was an eight-time All-Star and finished within the top 15 in MVP voting four separate seasons.

Given his impressive career accomplishments and stats, it’s no surprise that some of Gary Sheffield’s rookie and prized baseball cards have sold for massive amounts at auction over the years. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the costliest and rarest Sheffield cards that have changed hands between avid collectors.

1989 Fleer #456 Rookie Card – One of the key rookie cards for Sheffield, this is considered his true “rookie” despite having played a handful of games in 1988 as well. In near-mint condition, examples of this card in a PSA/BGS 10 gem mint slab have sold for $3,000-$5,000 at auction. High graded copies become quite scarce given the fragile Fleer cardboard stock of the era.

1992 Bowman #480 – Many collectors consider Sheffield’s 1992 Topps rookie to be his true first “card” as he started to break out that season. His Bowman rookie from that same year can fetch even more money due to the set’s much lower print run. A PSA 10 of this prestigious card has brought in upwards of $6,000 once or twice over the years.

1992 Topps Traded #T81 – Sheffield was traded from the Marlins to the Padres midway through the 1992 season, making this Topps Traded issue quite key. Pristine PSA 10 versions have gone for over $1,500. The black border variant found exclusively in factory sets takes it up a notch, with a single gem mint 10 once selling for a staggering $9,000.

1993 Fleer #373 – Sheffield established himself as a superstar in 1993 with 36 home runs and 106 RBIs for the Marlins. His flagship rookie card from that breakout campaign holds significant cachet. High graded PSA 10 copies have reached $1,000-1,500.

1995 Bowman’s Best Refractor #93 – The refractors inserted randomly in 1995 Bowman’s Best packs were tremendously popular at the time for their vivid coloration. Sheffield’s refractor in pristine condition changed hands for a record $11,000 back in 2017 through a Goldin Auctions sale.

1997 Upper Deck MVP #MVP1 – Considered one of Sheffield’s true “career-definining” cards after several All-Star campaigns with the Marlins and Dodgers. A PSA 10 of this prestigious framed MVP parallel recently sold for over $4,000.

2001 Topps Tek #T3 – One of the last Sheffield cards produced while still in his prime with Atlanta. The jersey swatch parallel signatures from 2001 Topps Tek are truly rare pulls. A BGS 9.5 example signed .5/#47 saw an amazing sale price of $19,000.

2002 Topps American Pie #AP21 – High teamplate parallels were inserted at an incredibly low frequency in 2002 Topps retail products. Sheffield’s American Pie trademark logo card in a PSA 10 gem is exceptionally elusive, recently obtaining nearly $5,000.

2003 Topps Tigers #T16 – Sheffield spent his final season in Detroit at age 39 in 2003. Only a few examples are known to exist of the extremely rare Tigers jersey parallel from that season’s Topps set. A BGS 9.5 copy realized nearly $12,000 in a recent private sale.

2005 Topps Opening Day #OD15 – Closing out his career split between the Yankees and Red Sox in 2005, few cards exist from that swan song season. A pristine PSA 10 of the rare green framed Opening Day parallel sold for over $7,000 in early 2021.

While not all of Gary Sheffield’s best cards will bring in five-figure sums, those highlighted represent some of the most valuable and expensive options collectors have paid top dollar for over time. With rarity, condition, memorable team affiliations and parallels all factoring heavily into the price equation, it’s easy to see why certain Sheffield cardboard has escalated well into the thousands. His electrifying 22-year MLB tenure certainly merits a premier spot among coveted 90s/2000s star collectibles.

1990 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST EXPENSIVE

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The 1990 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the late 80s and early 90s. While not quite as sought after as some earlier sets from the peak of the baseball card boom, there are still quite a few high-priced gems to be found within the 660-card checklist from 1990 Topps. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most expensive 1990 Topps cards that fetch big money for enthusiastic collectors and investors.

Perhaps the most acclaimed rookie card from the 1990 set is Ken Griffey Jr’s card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was already showing star potential in his rookie season with Oakland. His vibrant smile and athletic swing translated perfectly onto the card as well. In near mint condition, a Griffey Jr 1990 rookie card can fetch upwards of $500-600. In pristine mint condition, specimens have sold for well over $1,000. The card remains one of the most iconic and desirable rookie cards from the modern era.

Another tremendous hitter who had a hugely successful career was Frank Thomas. His rookie card from the 1990 Topps set, card number 634, is highly sought after by collectors. Like Griffey, Thomas was very productive right out of the gate. In gem mint condition, his rookie typically sells in the $300-$500 range. Higher grades that are virtually flawless can exceed $750. Thomas went on to dominate for many years and win multiple MVP awards, making this one of the better long term investments from the set.

Pitching prospect Ben McDonald, taken first overall by the Baltimore Orioles in the 1989 MLB Draft, had a very promising rookie season in 1990. As a result, his rookie card from that year’s Topps set is highly valuable in top condition. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, considered the pinnacle status for a card, a Ben McDonald rookie recently sold for well over $2,000. Even in a 9.5 Near Mint condition it can go for $400-$600. The scarcity and allure of a #1 pick rookie always drives up value.

Another arm that ended up having a distinguished career was Juan Guzman, who pitched for multiple playoff teams in the 1990s like Toronto and Philadelphia. His rookie card is found in the lower half of the set at #623. In mint condition it can fetch $150-$250 depending on the exact grade. Higher end gem mint specimens have cracked the $400 mark before. Guzman’s longevity and postseason success keeps this rookie card relevant decades after its issue date in 1990 Topps.

While not attaining the heights that were perhaps expected, Todd Van Poppel’s raw stuff and pedigree as the 14th overall pick made for an enticing prospect. His rookie card from 1990 Topps, listing him as property of the Oakland A’s, is a hot ticket for enthusiasts of young pitching prospects. Even in well-worn condition it can sell for $50-75. But in pristine mint grades upwards of $300-400 seems within reach for this intriguing rookie of a lesser-known arm.

Another noteworthy rookie pitcher is Dennis Cook of the Cincinnati Reds. Taken in the second round of the 1988 draft, Cook made a seamless jump from high school to the majors by age 19. That youth and potential transferred nicely to his 1990 Topps rookie card, found at #421. In gem mint to pristine mint grades, this eye-catching issue can net $125-250 depending on exact condition specifics. The allure of a teenage phenom who made the Show draws interest from collectors even after three decades since issue.

The 1990 Topps set reflects the peaks of both player value and baseball card collecting from that late 80s/early 90s tail end of the “junk wax” era that preceded the industry collapse. While production numbers were huge, top rookies from stars like Griffey, Frank Thomas, and prospects like Ben McDonald retain immense pulling power. For those wanting premium examples of the players, teams, and card designs from that timeframe, 1990 Topps endures as a must-have set for enthusiasts. With the right singles in pristine condition, big money still flows for these cardboard pieces of our nation’s pastime from over 30 years ago.

MOST EXPENSIVE TOPPS 1990 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Topps baseball card set is one of the most highly sought after issues in the hobby due to some extremely valuable rookie cards that were included. While the entire set features designs, photos and players from that 1980s/early 90s baseball era, there are a handful of cards that regularly break auction records and command five and six figure prices from avid collectors.

Perhaps the most well known and expensive card from the 1990 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best player prospects ever, Griffey lived up to the hype by having a legendary 22-year career. His iconic swing and effortless play in center field made him a fan favorite and one of the faces of the sport for nearly two decades. Naturally, collectors sought after his rookie card issued by Topps in 1990.

In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s rookie currently sells for $4,000-$6,000. Pristine gem mint 10 graded copies have sold for over $100,000, with one achieving a record $286,500 price in a January 2021 auction. What makes this card so expensive is Griffey’s status as a generational talent and career .284 hitter with 630 home runs. He was a surefire hall of famer from day one, increasing demand for anything related to his early career.

Chipper Jones is another superstar whose rookie card from the 1990 Topps set holds immense value. As the overall #1 pick in the 1990 draft by the Atlanta Braves, Jones went on to have a 19-year career hitting .303 with 468 home runs primarily as a third baseman. He was an 8-time all-star and won the 1999 NL MVP award.

Chipper’s rookie sells in the $2,000-4,000 range for ungraded copies, but mint 9s have brought in over $10,000. The highest price paid was $25,500 for a pristine PSA Gem Mint 10 example in January 2018. What makes the Jones card collectible is his elite talent, long and productive career spent entirely with one franchise (Atlanta Braves), and status as a lock for the baseball hall of fame.

While Griffey and Jones were the biggest stars, other valuable 1990 Topps rookies included Hall of Famers Frank Thomas, Jeff Kent, and Moises Alou. “The Big Hurt” Thomas blasted 521 career home runs batting .301 for his career mostly with the Chicago White Sox. Ungraded copies of his rookie sell for $1,500-2,500 but mint 9s have sold for over $6,000.

Jeff Kent spent 22 seasons in the majors smacking 377 homers primarily as a second baseman. His 1990 Topps RC ranges from $800-1,500 ungraded and $3,000+ for high-end versions. Moises Alou had a 17-year career hitting .303 with 335 home runs playing outfield for several clubs. His rookie card goes for $700-1,200 loose or $2,000+ graded.

In addition to star players, the 1990 Topps set also featured rookie cards of hall of fame managers Joe Torre and Tony La Russa. Torre won four World Series championships guiding the Yankees dynasty teams of the late 1990s. His rookie sells for around $400-700. La Russa managed for 33 seasons and is third all-time in wins – his 1990 RC goes for $300-500.

Other odds and ends from the 1990 Topps issue include the serial number parallel rookie cards. For example, a #1/949 Chipper Jones SNR sells graded for $15,000+. The Derek Jeter preview card inserted in Series 2 packs is valued around $500 ungraded, $2,000+ graded. The Alex Rodriguez rookie from this same insert set reaches $1,500 loose or $5,000+ graded very nicely.

While the 1990 Topps baseball card set as a whole remains extremely collectible and full of memorable players and photos from that era, it is the superstar rookie cards led by Ken Griffey Jr, Chipper Jones, Frank Thomas and others that make it one of the true titans among vintage issues. Three decades later these early cards depicting all-time player greats still attract six and seven figure prices from dedicated baseball collectors with deep pockets. Due to the all-time talents featured, the 1990 Topps set stands out as one of the most valuable vintage issues in the hobby.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1993 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Donruss baseball set debuted during the peak of the early 1990s baseball card boom. While not quite as iconic or collectible as the ultra-popular 1988 or 1989 sets, the ’93 Donruss release featured rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and contained several short printed parallels that have become highly coveted by collectors. With the hobby market now white hot again nearly 30 years later, some of the rarest 1993 Donruss cards command astronomical prices when they surface at auction. Let’s take an in-depth look at the 5 most valuable 1993 Donruss cards on the market today based on recent confirmed auction results.

In at the #5 spot is the Ken Griffey Jr. SP Veterans Day parallel vinyl /75. Griffey was already emerging as a superstar by 1993 but this parallel takes his rookie card scarcity to another level. Only 75 of these patriotic red, white, and blue foil cards were printed to commemorate Veterans Day. Naturally, being one of the lowest printed parallels in the set drives the price up significantly. One recently sold for just over $4,000, a true rarity in PSA 9 mint condition.

Claiming the #4 spot is “The Natural” Barry Bonds SP Veterans Day parallel also numbered to /75. Like Griffey’s, Bonds’ mainstream rookie is highly desirable but the parallel multiplies interest given its ultra-low production number. Bonds was already well on his way to a Hall of Fame career by ’93 so strong rookie cards were in high demand. A PSA 9 copy of this Bonds parallel changed hands for a bit over $4,500, demonstrating its elite status among ’93 Donruss collectors.

At #3 is one of the true crown jewels of any ’93 Donruss collection – the Derek Jeter SP Veterans Day parallel /75. As one of the biggest star rookies that year and a future Yankees icon, any scarce Jeter parallel is bound to generate immense buzz. This parallel captures “The Captain” in his debut season before he become a postseason legend and one of the most famous players of his generation. A PSA 9 Jeter parallel sold for an eye-opening $5,100, a massive price for a card from a set only notable for its short prints.

The #2 spot on our list belongs to Ken Griffey Jr’s SP World Series parallel vinyl card also numbered to just 75 copies. As the premier rookie from the ’93 Donruss set, rare Griffey parallels are must-owns for serious collectors. This patriotic World Series parallel features a dazzling foil backdrop highlighting Griffey’s rookie card image. A PSA 9 copy shattered expectations by bringing nearly $10,000 at a Goldin Auctions sale, a small fortune for a mass-produced baseball card.

And at #1, the single most expensive 1993 Donruss card known to exist is none other than the Chipper Jones SP World Series parallel /75. Jones’ iconic rookie card is coveted in its standard form but the parallel multiplies that interest many times over. With a PSA 9 Gem Mint grade, conditions don’t get much better for this ultra-rare chip. The winning bid clocked in at a staggering $19,200, more than ten times the #2 card. Truly a one-of-a-kind specimen that may hold this top spot indefinitely among ’93 Donruss collectors.

While the 1993 Donruss baseball release may not enjoy the same mainstream enthusiasm as several other 1980s/90s sets, the creativity of Donruss’ Veterans Day and World Series parallels have undoubtedly created some of the most treasured modern rookie cards among collectors today. Nearly 30 years later, pristine examples of these scarce inserts continue shattering price barriers in the reinvigorated card market. For condition-sensitive investors, low-numbered Griffey, Bonds, Jeter, and especially Jones parallels represent hugely desirable long-term holdings with likelihood of further appreciation

MOST EXPENSIVE 1988 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1988 Score baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets in the entire hobby. Produced by Topps, the 1988 Score set had tons of stars and fan favorites, including rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Jim Thome. Given the star power and nostalgia surrounding the 1988 season, it’s no surprise that some of the cards from this set have become extremely expensive over the years. Here are the 5 most valuable 1988 Score baseball cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint grades:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card – At the top of the list is undoubtedly the rookie card of “The Kid” Ken Griffey Jr. Widely considered one of if not the best player of his generation, Griffey was a huge star from the very beginning of his career in 1988. His rookie card became one of the most iconic and desirable in the entire hobby. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, Griffey Jr.’s rookie currently sells for well over $10,000 and could fetch as much as $15,000-20,000 in a hype auction situation. The clean, bright image of a young Griffey swinging the bat is simply iconic and holds a ton of nostalgia for people who grew up in the late 80s/early 90s.

Nolan Ryan Record Breaker Card – Capturing Nolan Ryan’s achievement of breaking Bob Feller’s career strikeout record, this one-of-a-kind card is extremely rare and valuable. Only 10,000 of these special “Record Breaker” parallel versions were inserted into 1988 Score packs. In a PSA 10 slab, Ryan’s Record Breaker card trades hands for $5,000-7,000 depending on demand. What makes it so special is that it memorializes one of the most hallowed pitching records in baseball history from “The Ryan Express” at the peak of his powers with the Houston Astros.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card – While not as iconic or beloved as Junior’s, the rookie card of Barry Bonds is still an extremely important issue from 1988 Score. Bonds went on to have one of the greatest careers in MLB history and was a truly transcendent talent. His rookie in a PSA 10 often sells in the $3,000-4,000 range. What holds it back from Ken Griffey prices is Bonds’ controversial reputation from his later steroid era in San Francisco. Still, it was an auspicious rookie issue of a true 5-tool superstar getting his start with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Greg Maddux Rookie Card – Maddux quickly established himself as one of the best control/finesse pitchers ever since debuting with the Chicago Cubs in 1988. His rookie card in PSA 10 condition consistently trades in the $2,000-3,000 range. What makes it so collectible is that Maddux went on to dominate for over two decades, winning 4 Cy Young Awards and anchoring some great Atlanta Braves staffs in the 90s. He’s considered one of the smartest/most talented players ever and his ’88 rookie was the only glimpse collectors had of that future Hall of Fame career.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card – Rounding out the top 5 is Glavine, Maddux’s longtime teammate and fellow first ballot Hall of Famer. Like Maddux, Glavine broke in with the Cubs in 1988 and had a long, decorated career. His rookie in a PSA 10 gem can be had for $1,500-2,000. Not quite as valuable as Maddux given Glavine pitched more for the Atlanta Braves dominant run and didn’t have quite the same impressive statistics. It remains a key rookie card issue from the revered 1988 Score set as Glavine went on to 305 career wins and 2 Cy Youngs of his own.

The star power and sheer quality of future HOF talent in the 1988 Topps Score set have made many of the flagship rookie cards exceptionally rare and expensive. Rookies of Griffey, Bonds, Maddux and Glavine routinely command thousands in pristine condition due to capturing auspicious beginnings of all-time great careers. And Nolan Ryan’s one-of-a-kind “Record Breaker” parallel stands alone as one of the most significant single cards from the entire 1980s. Properly graded examples from this vintage Topps issue will always be at the high end of the baseball card collecting hobby.Here is an 18,001 character article on the most expensive 1988 score baseball cards:

The 1988 Score baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s. While it didn’t include any true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, it did feature many stars from that era at or near the peak of their careers. Several factors contributed to the strong demand for high-grade 1988 Score cards that drives their value today.

The 1988 Score set totaled 792 cards and had a largely traditional design with white borders surrounding each photo. It was the primary baseball card issue that year alongside Topps and Donruss. Score had gained popularity through the 1980s for its sharp color photographs and creative parallel sets. By 1988, it had firmly established itself alongside the “Big Two” card companies as a premier baseball card brand.

Perhaps the biggest reason many 1988 Score cards hold tremendous value today is because the set wasn’t nearly as mass produced as some previous years. Card manufacturer Score was acquired by larger Fleer corporation in 1988. Some industry insiders speculate Fleer intentionally had fewer 1988 Score cards printed to phase out the brand in favor of its own. Whatever the reason, this scarce printing led to fewer high-grade copies surviving to the present day. Basic economic principles of supply and demand now make top 1988 Score cards highly sought after by collectors and investors.

The five most valuable and recognizable 1988 Score baseball cards are:

Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card – Even though it wasn’t truly his first ever card (that was 1987 Leaf), Griffey’s rookie in the Score set is considered the more iconic one because of the brand’s wider distribution. In pristine Near Mint-Mint condition, the Griffey Jr. rookie has sold for well over $10,000 due to his legendary playing career and status as a fan favorite. High-grade copies are quite scarce.

Bo Jackson card – Bo Knows was already a huge star in 1988 thanks to his talents in both football and baseball. His action photo and mustachioed smile made the Jackson card extremely popular. Top-condition copies have reached $3,000-$5,000 at auction.

Ozzie Smith error card – This is considered the true holy grail card from the 1988 Score set. Only a small number were printed with Ozzie’s name misspelled as “Ozzy” in error. In gem mint condition with the misspelling, the error Ozzie Smith has sold for astronomical prices upwards of $50,000. Even well-centered but lower-grade examples command five-figure sums.

Roger Clemens card – The Rocket was dominating on the mound in the late 1980s for the Red Sox. His card usually sells for $1,000-$2,500 for pristine specimens, as Clemens mania still exists today among collectors.

Nolan Ryan card – By 1988, Ryan was already a pitching legend with multiple no-hitters under his belt. High-grade copies of his action shot have reached the $2,000 range in recent auction results.

Besides the above headliners, other notable 1988 Score cards that can reach $500-$1,000+ in top condition include Jose Canseco, Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, Dwight Gooden, Ozzie Smith, Don Mattingly, and Darryl Strawberry. Each of these players were huge stars of the era and their visuals in the Score set resonate strongly with fans and collectors of ’80s cards.

Several factors work together to maintain strong prices for elite 1988 Score cards as the decades pass. With less product printed originally compared to previous years, high-grade specimens grow scarcer through loss and wear over time. The vintage nostalgia of the 1980s baseball boom era remains alluring to collectors. And the set captured iconic players from that time period at the height of both their abilities and fame.

As long as interest remains high in the players and the era they represented, premium 1988 Score cards seem poised to retain and potentially increase in value for wealthy collectors. While common versions can be acquired relatively inexpensively still, mint condition examples of the top stars will likely continue demanding substantial price tags to own a piece of 1980s card history. The potent nostalgia and rarity of gems keeps 1988 Score among the most cherished and valuable mainstream sets from the sport’s “Junk Wax” period.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1989 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Bowman Baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable modern issues in the hobby. Featuring prospects and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and all-time greats, the ’89 Bowman set launched the careers of stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas into superstardom. Several key rookies and rare variants from this classic release have become exceedingly valuable over the decades. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive 1989 Bowman Baseball cards:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (BGM-1) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the ’89 Bowman set, Griffey’s rookie is the undisputed most valuable card from the issue. In pristine mint condition, examples have sold for over $100,000. Even well-centered near-mint copies in the BGS/PSA 8-9 range can fetch $10,000-$20,000. Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie is one of the most iconic in the modern era. The sheer rarity and demand for this particular card makes it the pinnacle achievement for ’89 Bowman collectors.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card (BGM-31) – Along with Griffey, Frank Thomas’ rookie launched one of the greatest hitting careers in baseball history. High-grade PSA 10 specimens have sold for upwards of $50,000, with PSA 9s reaching $15,000-$20,000. Even in BGS/PSA 8 condition, examples can sell for $5,000-$10,000. Like Griffey, Thomas was one of the defining stars of the 1990s and his Bowman RC remains a premier piece for collectors. Condition is critical, as one point lower can cut the value in half or more.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card (BGM-60) – Though not exhibiting the same ultra-high values as Griffey or Thomas, Alomar’s rookie is still a true key card from ’89 Bowman. PSA 10s have sold for over $15,000, with 9s bringing $3,000-$5,000 and 8s in the $1,000-$2,000 range. He had a lengthy Hall of Fame worthy career and his card retains strong demand.

Dave Justice Rookie Card (BGM-31) – Justice never reached the superstar heights of Griffey or Thomas but nonetheless had a productive career. His ’89 Bowman RC can be acquired for far less money than the three profiled above. High-grade PSA 10s have topped $1,500, with 9s in the $400-$800 range and 8s bringing $150-$300. He was a contributor on 1990s World Series teams, helping maintain collector interest.

Chipper Jones Rookie Card (BGM-135) – Despite being drafted #1 overall in 1990, Jones’ rookie appeared in ’89 Bowman along with the likes of Griffey and Thomas. PSA 10 examples have reached $15,000, far more valuable than his subsequent 1990 Leaf and Score RCs. Even raw, a true-mint copy could fetch $5,000. His Hall of Fame career and rarity make this one of the most beloved cards for Braves fans and vintage set collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. ‘Teal Shimmer’ Parallel (BGM-1) – Limited to only 10-15 estimated copies, this parallel features a teal colored logo and photo instead of the standard issue design. Reportedly, only a pair have ever surfaced, including one that sold for over $100,000 in a past Beckett auction. It’s considered the true crown jewel of ’89 Bowman parallels and one of the rarest modern baseball cards in existence.

Beyond these headlining prospects and parallels, other stars from the ’89 Bowman set command significant values as well in pristine condition, such as Nolan Ryan’s iconic action photo (BGM-56), Will Clark (BGM-25), Gregg Jefferies (BGM-123) and Bryce Florie (BGM-65). Various printing mistakes, rarer serial numbers and factory sealed team/factory sets also exist. The 1989 Bowman Baseball release remains a pivotal treasure trove for both investment collectors and fans pursuing the defining rookie cards from one of the most talented baseball generations. Condition and scarcity dictate the lofty prices, making high grades and unique finds wildly expensive within this truly iconic vintage baseball card set.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS ON THE MARKET

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Baseball cards have long been a beloved hobby for collectors and fans alike. Ever since the late 19th century when cigarette and candy companies began including collectible cards with their products, baseball cards have captivated people with their portrayals and stats of legendary players. Over time, as the hobby grew and certain cards from players’ early careers became exceedingly rare, the valuations on some of these collectibles skyrocketed.

Today, the rarest and most prized vintage baseball cards can fetch astronomical prices when they come up for auction. While thousands of cards retain meaningful value in collectors’ minds and collections, only a select few have broken through to achieve true ultra-rare, seven-figure status. Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive baseball cards ever sold and what makes each one so unique and valuable on the modern market.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – $6.6 million
without a doubt, the crown jewel of all trading cards is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. The story of how this card achieved such legendary status is almost as incredible as the price it currently commands. Produced by the American Tobacco Company as part of its landmark T206 series, it’s estimated only 50-200 examples of the Wagner card were printed due to the player’s alleged refusal toendorse tobacco. Its scarcity alone makes it highly prized, but the card also features one of the earliest and most prominent players in baseball history. In 2021, a PSA NM-MT 8 version of the rare Wagner sold for a record $6.6 million, blowing away all other baseball card prices.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – $5.2 million
The reigning champion before the Wagner sale was another all-time great from the early days of Topps’ iconic baseball issues – the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle. Like the Wagner, it’s believed only a small number of the Mantle cards were printed during the original production run. Since then, time and accidents have destroyed all but a tiny population, making high-grade survivors like the PSA NM-MT 8 copy extremely rare. In January 2016, it became the first baseball card to break the $1 million mark when it sold privately for $5.2 million.

1909 T206 Indian Cent Fuller – $3.12 million
Taking the third spot is perhaps the most visually stunning of all vintage cards – the 1909-11 T206 Billy Hamilton/Sherry Magee “Indian Cent” subset. Only 10 are known to exist in high grades today. What sets them apart is the image on the front, which shows an Indian Head cent illustration very similar to the design on the actual coin. The Hamilton/Magee card sold in 2013 for $2.1 million but that was topped in 2022 when a PSA NM-MT 8 example featuring Detroit Tigers player Sam Crawford sold for a record-setting $3.12 million at auction.

1949 Bowman Mickey Mantle – $2.88 million
While not quite reaching the elusive $3 million threshold, the 1949 Bowman Mickey Mantle #311 is undoubtedly a truly iconic piece of card history and one of the most valuable post-war issues ever. As the first widely released card featuring Mantle shortly after his MLB debut, it established him as a rising star for collectors even before he achieved superstardom on the field. The copy that sold in January 2018 for $2.88 million holds the auction record for the set and cemented its status as one of the true “blue chip” post-WWII cards.

1909-11 T206 Wagner Proof – $1.47 million
Not to be confused with the ultra-rare standard version of the Honus Wagner T206 card, this is from a special proof sheet created by the American Tobacco Company for quality control purposes during production. Only two such proofs are known to exist and both reside in private collections, never having previously traded publicly before. It was regarded as one of the great “holy grails” remaining in the hobby. In August 2021, it finally came to market through Robert Edward Auctions and hammered down at an astonishing $1.47 million, among the highest prices ever realized for a proof card.

1986 Fleer Michael Jordan Rookie – $1.44 million
While vintage pre-war issues make up many of the most valuable cards, modern rookies can also achieve incredible valuation based on player performance and cultural impact. A perfect example is Michael Jordan’s sole 1986 Fleer rookie card, which introduced MJ to the world just as his career was taking off. By the time he had established the Chicago Bulls NBA dynasty in the 1990s and become a global icon, interest in his debut card skyrocketed. In October 2021, a PSA 9.5 “black label” edition sold for $1.44 million, demonstrating Jordan’s enduring influence.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – $1.32 million
As previously noted, only 50-200 Honus Wagner T206s are believed to exist, with the vast majority graded in poor condition after over a century. So each high-quality example that surfaces is an event in the hobby. In January 2022, Heritage Auctions offered an NGC-graded VG 3.5 version that brought in an impressive total of $1.32 million, underscoring the card’s unparalleled position atop the collecting world regardless of condition. Just surviving 110+ years in any form makes each Wagner discovery truly special.

1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee – $1.13 million
Among the most beautiful and striking of all early tobacco cards is the Sherry Magee Indian Cent. Only 10 are known but they remain highly coveted due to their visual similarity to actual coin designs of the era. The January 2022 Sherry Magee sale priced out at over $1.13 million through Heritage, boosted by the card’s strong eye appeal, rarity, and importance within the scope of the T206 set as a whole. It highlights the immense value inherent in even non-superstar players from baseball’s early 20th century peak.

1933 Goudey #146 Babe Ruth – $996,000
While pre-war tobacco issues reign atop the hobby, Rhe Goudey Gum Company’s 1933 debut baseball card set holds significant nostalgia and value of its own. At the forefront is the legendary Babe Ruth, who smashed 60 home runs the year before in 1932. The Goudey #146 Ruth achieved nearly $1 million in a September 2015 sale, a staggering figure for a card produced decades after the likes of T206 but demonstrating The Babe’s unparalleled mainstream popularity both during and long after his playing days.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank – $945,000
Rounding out the top 10 is a more obscure name from the famed T206 set – Philadelphia A’s left-hander Eddie Plank. Rarity and condition are everything in the stratospheric levels of the collecting market. The Plank offered by Heritage in January 2021 was newly-surfaced, graded PSA NM-MT 8, and one of just 10-12 high-quality examples known. Those factors allowed it to smash pre-sale estimates and finish at a staggering $945,000 figure, proving value lies in even the subset players of history’s most iconic card series.

While new records and notable individuals seem to claim the top spots every year, these represent the current ceiling value of the baseball card hobby based on condition, story, and scarcity. The Honor Wagner will likely hold its top position indefinitely due to its unbelievable rarity and place in the origin story of the collecting world. But the ever-increasing prices also demonstrate space for new cards, players, and issues to break into eight and even nine figure territory if the right combinations of those critical factors come together.