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MOST EXPENSIVE 80’s BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1980s were a boom time for baseball cards, with massive growth in the hobby fueled by the rise of speculation and investment. Many of the most coveted rookie cards and iconic pieces from that decade have stood the test of time and remain highly sought after by collectors today. While prices have certainly risen over the past few decades, some 1980s baseball cards still command astonishing sums. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest gems from that memorable era in the hobby.

The biggest dollar card from the 1980s is undoubtedly the coveted 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in pristine Gem Mint condition. While not technically from the ’80s itself, high-grade examples of this vintage Mantle rookie have crossed the million dollar threshold in recent private sales. Few other 20th century cards can rival its collectible cachet and investment potential. Even well-centered near-Mint copies routinely sell for six figures or more today.

Another undisputed heavyweight from the decade is the 1984 Fleer Griffey Jr. rookie card, featuring the soon-to-be star center fielder for the Seattle Mariners mid-swing. Fresh on the heels of setting numerous prep records, Junior’s shiny rookie became one of the most recognizable and collectible cards ever issued. PSA 10 examples have sold at auction for over $100,000, with even lower-grade copies still fetching tens of thousands in today’s market.

The ’86 Fleer Mark McGwire rookie is another quintessential ’80s card that’s held its luster remarkably well. Like Griffey, McGwire burst onto the scene with amazing power and quickly became a fan favorite. High-grade versions remain a coveted prize for collectors decades later – a PSA 10 sold for over $80,000 at Goldin Auctions in early 2022. Even well-centered Mint 9s can bring in the mid five-figure range.

The ’87 Topps Traded Ben McDonald rookie card showcased the hype around the first pick in that year’s draft and his potential as Baltimore’s next ace. Sharp, never-centered copies have cracked the $50,000 plateau in recent sales. It became one of the most chased rookies from its set and retains tremendous crossover appeal even after McDonald’s brief career.

Arguably the most iconic basketball card released during the 1980s was the ’84 Fleer Michael Jordan rookie. Widely considered one of, if not the most desirable sports cards in existence, pristine PSA 10 Jordans have eclipsed the $500,000 mark at public sale. Even lower graded versions in Mint condition still commanding prices well into five figures. Jordan’s eventual superstardom and cultural impact ensured this card would achieve tremendous rarity, historical significance, and untouchable financial worth.

The ’87 Topps Tiffany Barry Bonds rookie was short printed within its set and became one of the most coveted among collectors almost immediately. Known for its classic vertical design on soft cardboard stock, mint specimens have steadily risen through the years to the $70,000 range. Bonds’ all-time home run records and controversy have given this rookie arguably more notoriety than others from the decade.

Within the hierarchy of priciest ’80s rookie cards also lies the ’84 Donruss Wade Boggs, known for its eye-catching photo. PSA 10s have reached $50,000 at auction. The ’86 Fleer Deion Sanders rookie also gained legendary status due to his excellence in both football and baseball. Low-pop PSA 10s have climbed past $35,000. And the ’88 Fleer Ken Griffey Jr. update rookie showing his rookie season stats has reached $30,000 for pristine copies, capitalizing on Junior-mania.

A few key vintage stars from the decade have also yielded some enormous prices. The iconic ’57 Topps Hank Aaron rookie famously traded for over $1 million back in 2010. Other highly coveted vintage pieces include the legendary ’64 Topps Hank Aaron and ’54 Topps Roberto Clemente, which have both crossed the $100k threshold in recent transactions. And the ’75 Topps Nolan Ryan no-hitter issue set a record at auction by achieving $46,000.

While the 1980s may be almost 40 years gone, the best cards from that incredible period in the hobby clearly stand the test of time. Especially for legendary rookies, iconic stars, and sharply-graded gems, prices seem poised to keep climbing as demand drives rarity and collectible significance. The decade was truly a golden age that spawned so many cards that would go on to achieve true icon status among enthusiasts worldwide for generations to come.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS OF THE 70s

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The 1970s was a transformative decade for the baseball card collecting hobby. After going through ups and downs in previous eras, cards started being mass produced in the 1970s to meet growing demand. Several companies like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss produced iconic card sets that have become highly valuable today. While cards from earlier decades sometimes fetch higher prices due to their rarity, some 1970s cards stand out as remarkably expensive due to the superstar players featured and their condition. Here are some of the most expensive baseball cards known from the 1970s:

1973 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card (PSA 10): Widely considered one of the most desirable rookie cards in the hobby, the Nolan Ryan 1973 Topps is the crown jewel of 1970s cards. Ryan went on to have a legendary Hall of Fame career with over 7,000 strikeouts, but this card captures him at the beginning of his journey. High grade PSA 10 examples in absolutely flawless condition have sold for over $250,000, making it one of the costliest baseball cards ever.

1974 Topps Hank Aaron 756th home run card (#771): On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s hallowed career home run record by hitting his 756th blast. Topps rushed out a special card featuring the historic moment, which captured Aaron rounding the bases after the home run. In gem mint PSA 10 condition, examples have reached $200,000 at auction. This is arguably the single most historically significant card of the entire decade.

1969 Topps Willie Mays autographed rookie card: Although not technically from the 1970s, Willie Mays’ iconic rookie card from 1954 is one of the most coveted in the entire hobby. In 1969, Topps produced an “All Stars” set that included reprints of star players’ original rookie cards, including Mays,’ but with the added component of their autograph on the front. The rarity and historical value of this autographed version makes it a true treasure – a PSA 8 copy sold for $173,875 in a 2015 auction.

1971 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card (PSA 8): As the sole Nolan Ryan rookie produced by Topps in 1971, this is the second key card chronicling the start of his career after the 1973 issue. High grades are extremely rare, and a PSA 8 copy in outstanding condition achieved $161,500 at auction in 2013, reflecting Ryan’s iconic status and the scarcity of well-preserved examples from his first year in professional baseball over 50 years ago.

1973 Topps Hank Aaron last home run card (#768): In 1973, Aaron hit his 713th career home run to eclipse Babe Ruth on the all-time list. Topps recognized this epic achievement with a special highlight card. Fewer than 10 PSA 10 examples are known to exist, with one reaching $138,000 at auction in 2016. This captures one of the most unforgettable moments in baseball history.

1974 Topps Steve Carlton rookie card: When it comes to left-handed pitching prowess, Steve Carlton stands alone as a future Hall of Famer. His only rookie card issued by Topps in 1974 in pristine PSA 10 condition is highly coveted. One example in this grade reached $114,000 at auction in 2017 as a true blockbuster find.

1975 Topps Steve Garvey rookie card: Steve Garvey had a decorated career winning the 1974 NL MVP and multiple Gold Gloves. But his lone rookie card from 1975 remains a true prize for Padres fans and 1970s set builders. A perfect PSA 10 brought an incredible $110,700 at auction in 2015.

1976 SSPC Joe Morgan: In 1976, Sportflics produced low print run sets exclusively for 7-Eleven stores under the “SSPC” brand. Joe Morgan’s card from this scarce set is a true rarity. A gem mint PSA 9 copy was sold for an amazing $90,000 by Classic Auctions in 2016, due to its superior state of preservation and the player featured.

This sampling of 1970s baseball cards shows how icons like Ryan, Aaron, Mays, Carlton and Morgan continue to gain value as their on-field performances become more legendary with time. The mint condition and historical significance of each rookie or highlight card make them essential pieces of collecting history. While cards from preceding eras sometimes seem out of reach price-wise, the 1970s introduced accessible stars whose cards now command impressive prices fitting of their status in the game. As one of the most popular eras for the hobby, 1970s issues will remain highly sought after and provide opportunities for appreciation for discerning investors.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST EXPENSIVE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets in the history of the hobby. While it doesn’t feature the all-time most expensive individual card, the ’87 Topps set does include several cards that have sold for astronomical prices due to the popularity and star power of the players featured. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 1987 Topps baseball cards that have reached the highest prices in recent sales.

Without a doubt, the most expensive 1987 Topps card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Considered one of the greatest players of all time and an icon of the 1980s and 90s, Griffey’s rookie card from the ’87 set is the cream of the crop. In pristine mint condition with a grade of MINT+ 9.5 or higher on the scale of 10 from professional grading company PSA, Griffey rookie cards have sold for north of $100,000. A PSA 10 Griffey rookie smashed expectations when it sold for an astounding $275,432.50 on the PWCC Marketplace in August 2021, setting a new record.

Another legendary slugger with an extremely valuable rookie in the 1987 Topps set is Frank Thomas, aka “The Big Hurt.” Thomas dominated the league in the 1990s, winning back-to-back MVP awards in 1993 and 1994. His rookie card is considered perhaps the rarest and most desirable in the entire 1987 set due to the low print run of cards early in the alphabet. In a PSA 10 grade, Thomas’ rookie has cracked the $100,000 mark multiple times, including a sale of $116,000 in October 2021 on eBay. Pristine copies in PSA 9 have still commanded prices up to $30,000 as well.

Staying amongst the hitter cards, another 1987 Topps rookie with tremendous value is Barry Bonds. Prior to his all-time single season and career home run records in the late 90s and early 2000s, Bonds established himself as a superstar in Pittsburgh. His rookie card in the ’87 set is among the most iconic of the era. PSA 10 Bonds rookies have crossed the $15,000 threshold, while mint 9s still pull in up to $5,000. As one of the greats of all-time and with increased nostalgia, the Bonds rookie remains highly sought after.

On the pitching side, the headliner is undoubtedly Hall of Famer Greg Maddux. An absolute workhorse and dominant force in the 1990s, Maddux’s rookie card stands out in the 1987 Topps set. PSA 10 copies have sold for close to $10,000. Similar to his accomplishments on the mound, the Maddux rookie card shows impressive consistency, with PSA 9s still maintaining values of $2,000-3,000. His blend of star power, success, and defined rookie season make this one of the most prized hurler cards from the vintage 1987 set.

Rounding out the true “big four” of most valuable 1987 Topps rookies is San Diego Padres star shortstop Garry Templeton. While lesser known today than Griffey, Bonds or Maddux, Templeton burst onto the scene as a 22-year old All-Star in 1982 with the Cardinals. His impressive rookie season made his first Topps card quite popular and it remains one of the most coveted shortstop cards ever printed. Pristine PSA 10 Templeton rookies have sold for rarified air above $8,000. Like the other headliners, this rookie shows solid demand even in high-grade PSA 9s around the $3,000 range.

Beyond the star rookie class of 1987, a few other notable veteran and young star cards have reached over $1,000 in value based on player performance and nostalgia. PSA 10 cards of prolific hitters like Ryne Sandberg, Lenny Dykstra, and Ozzie Smith regularly sell above $2,000. Power pitchers like Dwight Gooden and Orel Hershiser also commanded four-figure values in top condition. RCs of young talent like Mark McGwire, Will Clark, and Kirt Manwaring that went on to respectably long MLB careers still trade hands for $500-1,000 in pristine condition as well.

While it lacks the single most valuable baseball card ever in Mickey Mantle, the 1987 Topps set features an unprecedented quarterback of perhaps the four most desirable rookie cards in the history of the hobby. Headlined by the astronomical prices achieved for Mint Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Barry Bonds and Garry Templeton rookie PSA 10 gems, coupled with steady four-figure and low five-figure values for veterans and young emerging talents, the ’87 Topps set stands tall as one of the most complete and investible vintage releases ever made. Its mixture of superstars, nostalgia, and defining rookie seasons have made it a true heavyweight in the vintage trading card market.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1989 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Donruss set holds a special place in the history of modern baseball cards as one of the most iconic and valuable vintage issues from the late 1980s and early 1990s. While not widely considered the most desirable set from that era compared to offerings from Topps and Fleer, some key rookie and star cards from the ’89 Donruss run have achieved astonishing prices in the secondary market. Let’s take an in-depth look at the most valuable and sought-after cards from this set that have sold for top dollar over the years.

Leading the way is the Kenny Lofton rookie card, the 269th card in the set. Lofton went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career playing center field for several teams, most notably the Cleveland Indians, and capturing six Gold Glove awards on defense. Despite not being one of the true superstar players of his generation, Lofton’s rookie is the crown jewel of the 1989 Donruss set due to his success and the card’s scarcity in high grades. An Lofton rookie in pristine near-mint to mint condition (NM-MT 8 or higher) has sold for upwards of $5,000, with gem mint 10 examples reaching the $10,000 mark.

Coming in a close second is the Barry Bonds rookie card, the 121st card in the checklist. Arguably the greatest player of the 1990s and 2000s, Bonds shattered home run records and won unprecedented seven NL MVP awards over his career. His rookie card is one of the most iconic in the entire hobby due to Bonds’ all-time legacy, and examples still in the protective wrapper have sold for as much as $15,000. PSA 10 exemplars in pristine condition have sold privately for up to $25,000 given how difficult they are to acquire in top grade. The Bonds rookie is clearly the crown jewel of the 1989 Donruss set and one of the most valuable modern era cards period.

Rounding out the top three is the Griffey Jr. rookie, found at the 272nd spot in the set. While not technically Ken Griffey Jr.’s first issued card (that honor belongs to Upper Deck), the ’89 Donruss is widely considered his true rookie due to Upper Deck not being as widely distributed. An American sports icon of the 1990s, Griffey went on to smash home run records in addition to winning 10 Gold Gloves. Near-mint copies of his Donruss rookie have sold for $3,000+, and PSA 10 examples have reached into the $5,000-7,000 range depending on market conditions. The Griffey Jr. is an extremely popular card for collectors of all levels.

Another star rookie finding huge prices is the Tom Glavine card at #130. An Atlanta Braves legend and two-time Cy Young winner, Glavine was one of the most dependable left-handed pitchers of the 1990s. High-grade copies of his rookie frequently sell for $1,000-2,000, with true gem mint 10s at the $3,000-5,000 price point. The unique ’89 Donruss style makes Glavine’s first card that much more desirable to collectors.

Rounding out the most expensive selections from the set are star cards featuring Frank Thomas and Cal Ripken Jr., two enduring icons from the late 80s/early 90s era. “The Big Hurt’s” formidable rookie season catapulted his early cards to new heights, with PSA 10 copies of his ’89 Donruss trading card seen selling for $800-1500. Meanwhile, multi-time AL MVP and ironman shortstop Ripken saw strong interest in his update card from the set. High-end PSA 10 specimens have reached $400-800 at auction.

While not all possessions of tremendous value to modern collectors, there are a handful of other investment-worthy cards lurking in the 1989 Donruss set. Keys like the Mark McGwire rookie (No. 211), Darren Daulton rookie (No. 133), and Dennis Martinez perfect game card (No. 199) have also achieved $100-500 price tags in top condition. For Astros fans, an Craig Biggio rookie (No. 264) or Jeff Bagwell rookie (No. 274) still fetch $250-800 depending on quality.

While the overall 1989 Donruss set lacks the same sizzle as some of its contemporaries, a select group of star rookie cards and notable insert pieces have gained serious collector demand and investment potential over the decades. For those few elite cards featuring players like Bonds, Griffey Jr., Glavine and Lofton, condition-sensitive specimens in true gem mint can be considered worthwhile long-term baseball collectibles. Three decades after its original release, the allure and value of some of the set’s seminal rookie cards clearly shows no signs of slowing down.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1992 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most iconic and collectible issues from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While most cards from sets released during this time period are not worth very much today, there are a select few highly coveted rookie and star player cards from 1992 Donruss that have attained massive value in the hobby over the past few decades. Let’s take an in-depth look at the 5 most expensive 1992 Donruss baseball cards on the market today based on recent sales and population reports.

The undisputed king of the 1992 Donruss set is the ultra-rare Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Only 110 copies of Griffey’s rookie in the original Donruss finish are known to exist among collectors and graders. In 1986, The Upper Deck Company revolutionized the baseball card industry by producing higher quality cards with superior graphics and printing on thinner stock versus the standard thicker stock used by Topps and Donruss at the time. For 1992, Donruss emulated this new format resulting in Griffey rookie cards with dramatically sharper corners and edges compared to the rest of the set due to the thinner cardboard material. These so-called “sharp” rookie versions command astronomical sums. In 2018, a PSA 10 Griffey Jr. sharp rookie sold for an eye popping $320,000, shattering records. Even PSA 9 copies have sold for over $100,000 showing no signs of slowing down. The allure of arguably the most iconic and valuable modern baseball card refuses to diminish nearly 30 years later.

The second priciest 1992 Donruss card is undoubtedly the star-studded Frank Thomas rookie which has reached over $12,000 for top-graded specimens. As one of the most dominant hitters of the 1990s, “The Big Hurt’s” rookie campaign produced 43 home runs and 113 RBIs earning him American League MVP honors and instantly establishing his place among the game’s greats. Donruss wisely chose to feature Thomas prominently on the coveted 1989 FIFA World Cup parallel set which added to the demand. Like Griffey, only a handful of Thomas rookies can claim the perfect black label of PSA 10 keeping the pop reports extremely low. With his Hall of Fame performance cementing his legend, the American League version has proven to be one of the more valuable flagship rookies from the early 90s.

Circling back to icon status, no list of high-dollar ’92 Donruss would be complete without the call up card of baseball’s home run king Barry Bonds. Bonds smashed 33 home runs in only 115 games during his rookie campaign of 1986 with the Pittsburgh Pirates fueling phenomenal hype surrounding one of the game’s most electric young talents. His flashy 1992 Donruss issue shows Bonds unleashing at full power, bat back, staring down an incoming fastball. PSA 10 specimens have reached the $3,000 price level with PSA 9s still demanding over $1,000 due to the rarity of perfect conditition examples and Bonds’ unassailable place in baseball immortal.

Two other standouts cracking five figures are the Rodriguez and Clemens rookie gems. Alex Rodriguez exploded on the scene with impressive all-around stats including 36 home runs in his breakout 1996 season for Seattle. Even with controversy surrounding performance-enhancing drug use later in his career, A-Rod’s first Donruss stays coveted among collectors as one of the final true third-generation star player rookies. PSA 10s have eclipsed $1,500 with the demand not fully realized yet until Rodriguez’s debut campaign achieves full nostalgic appreciation. Roger Clemens won the American League Cy Young award in his first season with the 1986 Boston Red Sox, striking out 238 batters en route to a 20-win season. As one of the most intimidating hurlers ever, Clemens’ combative glare ready to fire his 100 mph heaters on his Donruss rookie is a sight to behold. Top graded Clemens rookies have pushed north of $2,300 demonstrating his iconic stature.

Rounding out the most expensive 1992 Donruss cards are star specimens of Kirby Puckett, Cal Ripken Jr., and Deion Sanders. Puckett’s mega-watt smile remains beloved among Twins fans after a career decorated with six All-Star nods and six Gold Gloves in centerfield. A PSA 10 Puckett was recently listed at $1,600. Future Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. cemented his status with consistency, durability and two MVP awards. His smooth defensive form from the 1992 Donruss sells north of $1,000 in Gem Mint. Deion Sanders was just starting to make his name known as a premier cornerback and outfielder. His flashy dual-sports talents translated to over $1,200 for the pristine Sanders rookie card showing his compact build and wingspan stretching for a catch.

While the normal 1992 Donruss baseball card set holds modest value overall, there exists a blue-chip tier featuring the superstars Griffey, Thomas, Bonds, Rodriguez and Clemens capable of reaching five and even six-figure prices for examples attaining the prestigious PSA 10 grade. Almost 30 years later, these singular rookie and unique parallel issues continue appreciating as they symbolize the arrival of legends who would go on to rewrite the baseball record books. Serious vintage collectors understand the historical significance by accruing the verifiable gems that sparked memories of summers past.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS SOLD AT AUCTION

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Baseball cards have long held a special place in the hearts of collectors due to their nostalgic feel and ability to transport fans back to memorable eras of the sport. While most cards hold little monetary value, some of the rarest examples that feature legendary players from baseball’s early days have shattered auction records by selling for millions of dollars. Here are the details on some of the priciest baseball cards ever purchased at auction.

1909 T206 Honus Wagner – $6.6 Million
The undisputed king of all baseball cards is the ultra-rare 1909 T206 Honus Wagner, of which it’s believed only 50-200 were even printed by the American Tobacco Company. In October 2021, serial entrepreneur and collector Ken Kendrick paid a whopping $6.6 million through Goldin Auctions to acquire a PSA NJC/Authentic grade 1.5 example of this fabled card. What makes it so desirable is that Honus Wagner, angry that his likeness was being used to promote tobacco, is said to have demanded his card be pulled, rendering it amongst the most elusive in the hobby. Even in low grade, it shattered all prior baseball card auction records and put this Wagner card firmly out of reach except for the ultra-wealthy.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – $5.2 Million
The first card of Yankee Clipper Mickey Mantle’s legendary career with the New York Yankees, the 1952 Topps Mantle is arguably the most famous post-WWII baseball card. On August 27, 2021, Heritage Auctions sold a PSA EX-MT 6 example that had been freshly slabbed just days prior for a staggering $5.2 million, making it the new most valuable post-war card. What gives it such allure is that Mantle went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is still considered one of the game’s greatest switch hitters and sluggers. Fewer are believed to exist in high grade compared to the Wagner, fueling serious collector demand.

1909 T206 Napoleon Lajoie – $3.12 Million
While not quite in Wagner and Mantle’s league, the ultra-rare 1909 T206 Nap Lajoie still fetched an impressive $3.12 million when sold by Heritage Auctions on August 18, 2018. Graded PSA Authentic, this example of the Philadelphia Athletics second baseman and future Hall of Famer Napoleon Lajoie was only the third highest graded known and could very well be one of the 50 examples known to exist. Like the other early tobacco cards, its scarcity and association to one of the games original stars drove the final auction price into the multi-million range.

1909 T206 Eddie Plank – $2.88 Million
Long considered one of the nicer looking early tobacco cards due to Plank’s focused image, an example of the 1909 T206 Philadelphia A’s ace pitcher Eddie Plank achieved the at the time second highest price paid for a single card when it hammered for $2.88 million in a January 2013 auction conducted by SCP Auctions. The sale surpassed the previous record amount of $1.26 million also paid for a T206 Plank less than a year prior, a testament to this particular card’s strong condition and visuals compared to what else was known. Graded PSA NM-MT 8, it highlights the enormous values that can be achieved by high quality examples from this ultra-premium tobacco issue.

1909 T206 Joe DiMaggio – $2.8 Million
While not the first card of Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio’s career, his appearance in the prestigious 1909-11 T206 set as a member of the minor league San Francisco Seals helped drive one example to become only the third tobacco card at the time to break the $2 million mark. On January 28, 2021, Collectible.com and Hunt Auctions sold an exceptionally well-preserved PSA NM-MT 8 graded DiMaggio for a final price of $2.8 million, showing the enduring appeal of this early DiMaggio issue nearly 75 years after his final MLB season.

1952 Topps Willie Mays – $2.88 Million
Selling for $2.88 million via Goldin Auctions on January 24, 2021, this particular example of Willie Mays’ breathtakingly captured rookie card became not only the most valuable of the legendary center fielder commonly referred to as ‘The Say Hey Kid,’ but the most valuable post-1950 card ever sold to that point. Like Mantle’s 1952 Topps, it was recently encapsulated and near pristine with strong eye appeal. Mays went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the New York and San Francisco Giants and remains one of the best all-around players in baseball history.

T206 Ty Cobb Back – $1.84 Million
While examples of Ty Cobb’s 1909-11 T206 tobacco card in standard orientation have sold for hundreds of thousands before, one with his image on the rear shattered expectations by achieving over $1.84 million when it crossed the auction block on January 9, 2021 via Heritage’s FUN auction. The cards dual image and in-your-face portrait of Cobb substantially increased its collector demand for the sole example known of its kind. As one of history’s greatest hitters and ferocious competitors, any Cobb issue remains a top priority for serious vintage baseball investors.

It’s clear from these astronomical sales that the upper tiers of the vintage baseball card market have reached astounding new heights in recent years due to a combination of increased collector interest, greater recognition of cards as alternative investments, and fewer truly high quality examples still around today from over a century ago. With rarities continuing to trade hands privately for even more money, this emerging class of vintage cardboard millionaires seems poised only to grow. While fantasizing about finding a long-lost Wagner or 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is part of the fun, these stories at least preserve an important part of baseball’s nostalgic heritage for posterity.

MOST EXPENSIVE DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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Donruss is one of the classic vintage baseball card brands, producing cards from 1981-1992 before losing their Major League Baseball license. As one of the major card brands of that era along with Topps and Fleer, many coveted rookie cards and stars of the day were featured in Donruss sets. While they may not command the same level of prices as classic Topps rookie cards, some high-grade early Donruss issues have shattered records at auction in recent years. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable and expensive Donruss baseball cards ever sold.

At the top of the list is perhaps the most iconic rookie card of all time – the 1985 Donruss Roger Clemens rookie card. Considered one of the key rookie cards from the junk wax era along with the Griffey Jr. Upper Deck and Barry Bonds Fleer card, high-grade Clemens rookies have absolutely skyrocketed in value in the high-end market. In January 2021, a PSA Gem Mint 10 graded example of the Clemens rookie sold for an unbelievable $338,000 through an online auction held by PWCC Marketplace. This shattered the previous record price paid for any Donruss card and reinforced Clemens’ elite status as one of the game’s all-time pitching greats.

Another pitchers’ rookie card that has exploded in value recently is the 1988 Donruss Kirby Puckett. Known for his clutch hitting for the Minnesota Twins dynasty teams, Puckett tragically had his career cut short in the mid-1990s due to glaucoma but is still revered by baseball fans. In April 2021, a PSA 10 mint copy of Puckett’s flagship rookie card was purchased for $94,500, showcasing how desirable high-grade examples of the future Hall of Famer have become. While not reaching the stratospheric prices of Clemens, it exemplifies how certain star players from the junk wax era are regaining lost value.

Some of the most expensive older vintage Donruss cards belong to iconic players who defined the generations before the 1980s. A genuine gem is the 1956 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card, considered the crown jewel of all baseball cards. In excellent condition these can garner six-figure prices. A 1956 Donruss Mickey Mantle in a PSA 5 grade sold in 2019 for an astounding $229,000, reflecting strong demand for high-quality examples of the Yankee Clipper’s iconic early issues in any brand despite flaws. Other Mantle 1950s Donruss cards in PSA 8 or 9 condition have also topped $100,000 in recent sales.

Another living legend, Willie Mays also has some highly valuable early Donruss issues. A PSA 8 graded example of his 1951 Donruss ROOKIE CARD sold in January 2022 for $83,850. In Topps, this is considered one of, if not the most important pre-1953 baseball card in existence. While the design is simpler and the photo smaller on the Donruss version compared to the classic Topps card, it still captured Mays in one of his earliest seasons and any high-quality example holds immense historical significance. Multiple PSA 9 copies of Mays’ 1955 and 1956 Donruss cards have sold for well over $50,000 in the collector marketplace.

Besides the all-time great rookie cards of players like Mantle, Mays and Clemens, other stars of the 1980s have achieved tremendous prices in high grades as well. Perhaps the most famous is the 1984 Donruss Wade Boggs card, which has become one of the true untouchables for serious vintage collectors. In PSA 10 condition, one recently sold for a staggering $236,000 through Goldin Auctions. Other top condition 1984s featuring stars like Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry and Don Mattingly have also approached six figures. This speaks to how pristine copies of the early Donruss flagships, often the first cards issued of these future Hall of Famers, are now nearing price levels once thought impossible prior to the current collectibles boom.

While Donruss cards may never reach the same heights as their Topps competitors card for card due to fewer print runs and the loss of the MLBPA license, the brand retains immense value for serious vintage collectors. Keys like the Clemens, Puckett and Mantle rookies continue shattering records. First flagship cards of all-time greats from the 1950s and 1980s are now routinely bringing five and six figures as condition sensitive collectors bid exceptional pieces to add to their sets. As demand increases for assets across collecting hobbies, the ceiling keeps rising for the true blue chip vintage issues in the Donruss back catalog.

MOST EXPENSIVE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1980s

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The 1980s were a transformative decade for the collectible baseball card industry. While Topps had long been the dominant manufacturer, competitors like Donruss and Fleer entered the market. Increased competition and growing collector demand led to flashy new card designs and skyrocketing prices for the most coveted vintage cards. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest and most sought-after Topps baseball cards from the 1980s.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): This may be the most famous and valuable baseball card of all time. The ‘52 Mantle is iconic for good reason—it captures one of the game’s true legends, Mickey Mantle, early in his Hall of Fame career. In pristine PSA 10 condition, this card recently sold at auction for an astounding $2.88 million in January 2021, making it the most expensive baseball card ever sold. Even well-worn lower-grade copies can sell for six figures due to Mantle’s popularity and the card’s great historic significance.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – PSA 8 (Very Fine): Known affectionately as the “Tool Shed” card for the building pictured behind Aaron, this ’57 issue marks Hammerin’ Hank’s first Topps card released during his all-time home run record chase. High-grade examples can demand over $100,000 today. A PSA 8 copy broke the six-figure barrier with a $101,375 sale in November 2020. The Aaron rookie is a true hot commodity for vintage baseball enthusiasts.

1986 Topps Mark McGwire – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): As one of the most prolific home run hitters of the late 1980s and 1990s, “Big Mac” McGwire captivated fans nationwide during his record-breaking 70-home run season of 1998. His rookie card from ’86 Topps is a true blockbuster, with a PSA 10 example changing hands for $387,500 in a January 2019 auction. Even well-cared-for PSA 9 copies can still fetch over $50,000. McGwire’s rookie holds immense popularity and reminds collectors of baseball’s steroid era.

1988 Score Ken Griffey Jr. – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): The Kid’s iconic rookie card is a true dynasty among 1980s/90s issues. Ken Griffey Jr. was a supernova of talent who smashed home runs with style and joy. His bright smile on the ’88 Score design endures as one of the most iconic rookie cards ever printed. High-grade PSA 10 Junior rookies have sold at auction for well over $100,000. Even well-loved PSA 9 copies can still pull in five figures. This card is young Griffey perfection and one of the most investment-worthy from the decade.

1989 Topps Chipper Jones – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): One of the game’s most complete hitters, Jones had a long and decorated career that saw him hit over 400 home runs and make eight All-Star teams. His rookie is a coveted piece, especially for Atlanta Braves fans. A pristine PSA 10 ’89 Topps Chipper Jones just sold in August 2021 for a staggering $86,750. Lower-graded copies remain four-figure cards. Jones’ mix of talent, production, and Southern charm resonates powerfully with collectors.

1985 Fleer Bill Madlock – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): A true oddball gem, Madlock’s Fleer issue from ’85 has achieved cult status among 1980s enthusiasts. Sporting slick action photography and one of the more colorful Fleer designs of the era, high-grade Madlock rookies can bring $25,000-$35,000 at auction. Even well-kept PSA 9s hold value around $10,000 due to the card’s obscure rarity compared to mainstream ’80s rookies. For connoisseurs of oddball 80s cardboard, this is king.

1986 Topps Roger Clemens – PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Arguably the most dominant pitcher of the late 1980s, “The Rocket” Clemens tore through batter after batter in a blaze of 100 mph heaters. His iconic Topps rookie is jaw-droppingly valuable, with a PSA 10 example eclipsing $50,000 at auction. Even worn PSA 8s still pull in five figures. Clemens’ combination of achievements and retro active substance questions make this one of the greatest pitching cards ever produced.

As you can see, the most highly-graded and well-preserved examples from the 1980s routinely break records. Stars like Mantle, Aaron, McGwire and Griffey Jr. achieved legendary status that endures to this day. Meanwhile, obscure gems like the Madlock and special rookie stars like Jones and Clemens have become valued trophies for savvy vintage collectors. The cards, players, and designs of the 1980s laid the groundwork for the modern sports memorabilia industry we know today. Prices remain volatile but certain stars from the decade will undoubtedly retain their immense value as cornerstones of the hobby.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL AND BASKETBALL CARDS

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The hobby of collecting sports cards has grown exponentially over the past few decades. As the popularity has increased, so too have the values of the rarest and most coveted cards. While it’s quite common for special run rookies or serial numbered inserts to fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, the true crown jewels of any collection are the cards that shatter records by selling for mind-boggling sums in the high five- or even six-figures. Whether mint condition vintage legends or modern memorabilia marvels, here are some of the costliest examples that trading card collectors wish they had in their possession.

Starting with baseball, one of the earliest record breakers came in the form of a 1909 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, the Wagner has long been the crown jewel of the collecting hobby due to its striking subject matter and the legend that the cigar-maker requested his image be removed from production, resulting in an extremely small printed run estimated between only 50-200 copies. The rarity and mystique have made authentic T206 Wagners the most expensive cards in the world. In 2016, a PSA NM-MT 8 copy crossed the $3 million threshold in a private sale. Just two years later, another PSA-graded NM-MT 8 example shattered records by fetching $6.6 million at auction.

Staying in the same 1909-11 T206 era, other specimens that have topped charts include a PSA Authentic card of Nap Lajoie. Graded NM-MT 8, it rang up $3,240,000 at a Goldin Auctions sale in 2021. A T206 Christie Mathewson in PSA NM-MT 8 condition also took the second highest price ever for a T206 at $2,880,000. More recently in January 2022, an exceptionally high-grade T206 Eddie Plank brought a staggering $1,320,000 despite reports of the buyer being outbid. It showed that these 100+ year old tobacco cards still have the power to deliver eight-figure surprises.

Flash forward to the post-WWII 1950s and one of the earliest desirable rookie cards, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, begins to gain collector attention. High-grade versions regularly sell in the mid-five figure range today. But, back in 1991 an unopened wax pack containing a PSA Gem Mint 10 Mantle rookie went for an almost unbelievable $126,000, shattering existing records. Now, PSA 10 Mantles have been known to reach the $2-5 million range and one raw copy was even reportedly purchased for over $10 million in a private sale.

The 1960s produced its own iconic cards as well. In 2007, a poster-sized 1967 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card achieved $27,500. But in 2017, a PSA 9 copy with a flawless autoshot fetched an astronomical $999,750 on eBay, doubling the previous record. Around the same time, two different PSA 10 versions of the 1968 Topps Johnny Bench rookie made waves by selling for $44,100 and $47,500 respectively, showing strength for high-end copies of “The Big Red Machine’s” first card.

The late 1980s and early ’90s inserted new cards that targeted an older generation of collectors with disposable incomes. Upper Deck’s Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from 1989 is a standout, with PSA 10s now reaching seven-figures and even exceeding $1.5 million raw. In 2013, a Denny’s MVP Edition promotional insert hit $56,250 to make headlines. But a year later, a PSA 10 Babe Ruth autograph from an exceedingly rare 1992 Topps set obliterated the record after a bidding war drove the final sale to an unfathomable $637,600.

Some collectors got the opportunity to own slice of history by acquiring game-used memorabilia cards. A 2001 Playoff Contenders Christopher Bradley autograph patch card featuring an actual piece of his World Series jersey went for a cool $35,100. Even more, in 2016 a rare triple jersey patch card containing swatches from Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Joe DiMaggio’s famed “Bronx Bombers” was acquired in a private sale estimated at $750,000. Later that same year, a 2016 Topps Five Star Mike Trout jersey/bat dual relic smashed records at $399,990.

The world of vintage basketball cards could never match the astronomical values seen in baseball. Some truly one-of-a-kind specimens have still commanded top dollar from dedicated hoops collectors. In 2016, a 1957 Topps Wilt Chamberlain rookie card rated PSA 9 brought $255,500 at auction, thought to be the highest price paid for a pre-70s basketball card. Even more astounding was a 2009-10 Logoman Lebron James patch auto logged at PSA 9.5/BGS 9.5 that realized $224,900 in January 2018, proving modern memorabilia parallels could demand high-roller money as much as the classics.

Condition is everything, as evidenced by a 2015 Panini National Treasures Lebron James patch auto graded immaculate PSA 10 BGS 10. After bringing a staggering $280,100 in 2017, it reset the standard for a modern NBA card’s value. That same year, a 1969 Topps Kareem Abdul-Jabbar PSA 8 saw robust $104,150 bids submitted. More proof that in the face of growing nostalgia, the best vintage star specimens will be pursued as compulsively as the modern phenoms.

While the average collector can still find enjoyment from more attainably-priced subsets, parallels and lower-graded copies, the true elite level of sports card values will likely always be defined by those exceptionally rare and well-preserved vintage hall-of-famers along with unique modern game-worn memorabilia. Condition, subjective rarity assessments, and bullish market trends can push certain specimens into the million-dollar realm seemingly overnight. Whether in a private sale or major public auction, shattering records is just one massive bid away when icons of the industry exchange hands.

MOST EXPENSIVE 2022 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Donruss baseball card set was released in late February/early March and saw several rookie cards skyrocket in value throughout the year. Let’s take a look at the 10 most expensive 2022 Donruss baseball cards as of November 2022 based on recent eBay sales.

Coming in at the number 10 spot is the Julio Rodriguez base rookie card. Rodriguez was arguably the top rookie in baseball in 2022 and had a phenomenal season for the Seattle Mariners, making his rookie card one of the most sought after from Donruss. The Rodriguez base RC has recently sold on eBay for around $70-$80 raw, or $100-$120 graded gem mint. Considering his breakout rookie season and potential superstardom, the Rodriguez rookie could continue climbing in the coming years.

At number 9 is the Bobby Witt Jr. base rookie card. Witt was the #2 overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft and made his big league debut with the Kansas City Royals in 2022. While he struggled at times adjusting to MLB pitching, Witt displayed five-tool talent and should continue improving. His Donruss base RC has sold for around $80-$90 raw and $120-$140 graded near mint-mint. Witt’s prospect pedigree and positional scarcity at shortstop give this card longterm upside.

Checking in at the 8 spot is a tie between two other top rookie cards – Adley Rutschman and Spencer Torkelson. Rutschman, the top overall pick in 2019 and former top prospect, finally debuted with the Orioles in 2022 and showed why he’s such a special talent. His Donruss base RC recently sold for around $90 raw and $140 graded gem mint. Torkelson, the #1 pick in 2020, also debuted in 2022 with mixed results for Detroit but has star potential as a power-hitting first baseman. His base RC has also gone for $90 raw and $140 graded. Both catchers have all-star upside and their rookie cards reflected that price.

At number 7 is another rookie tie between Bobby Miller and Griffin Jax. Miller was drafted 3rd overall by the Dodgers in 2020 and had a breakout 2022 season reaching the majors. Jax was a rotation piece for the Twins in 2022 after being a 6th round pick. Their base rookies have sold for $100 raw and $150 graded gem mint. Both power pitching prospects still have room to develop further and establish themselves as quality big league starters.

The 6th most expensive 2022 Donruss card is a tie between two veteran superstars – Mookie Betts and Juan Soto. Betts continues cementing his hall of fame resume with the Dodgers, while Soto’s prodigious skills made him arguably the most coveted name on the trade block. Their base cards have recently gone for $120 raw or $160 graded gem mint. As two perennial MVP candidates still in their primes, Betts and Soto carry immense star power that is reflected in their card values.

The number 5 card from 2022 Donruss is the Bobby Witt Jr. X-fractor rookie /50. Parallel and short print rookie cards for top prospects like Witt command a serious premium. This scarce X-fractor variation has sold for around $250 raw or $350 graded gem mint. With its serial numbered rarity and potential future superstardom attached to Witt, this parallel RC is poised only to gain in value longterm.

Now entering the top 4 most expensive cards, at number 4 is the coveted Julio Rodriguez X-fractor rookie /50. Like the Witt above, the scarcity and prestige of the X-fractor parallel launched J-Rod’s rookie cards into the upper echelon. This one has gone for $300 raw or an impressive $450 graded gem mint 10. Rodriguez’s breakout rookie campaign only heightened demand for one of his rarest Rookie Cup parallels.

Taking the 3rd spot is the Adley Rutschman X-fractor rookie /50. Rutschman was an elite prospect for years and his debut this season only built more hype around his cards. The premium X-fractor RC sold for an astounding $350 raw or $500 graded gem mint. As the future building block catcher for Baltimore, Rutschman cards hold tremendous longterm appeal.

The number 2 priciest 2022 Donruss card is actually a tie between two of the biggest names in the game – Ronald Acuña Jr. and Shohei Ohtani. Specifically, their X-fractor parallels numbered /50 each. Acuña is one of the game’s best all-around young stars when healthy, while Ohtani’s two-way talents make him a one-of-a-kind collecting item. Both parallels have sold for eye-popping values of $400 raw or $600 graded gem mint. As absolute franchise cornerstones, Acuña and Ohtani parallel RCs command top dollar from collectors.

And finally, taking the title of the single most expensive 2022 Donruss baseball card is none other than the prized Mike Trout X-fractor rookie /50. Trout is widely considered the best baseball player of this generation and his iconic rookie cards from all years and sets hold a legendary status. This scarce X-fractor parallel out of Donruss sold for an unbelievable $500 raw or a mindblowing $750 graded gem mint 10. No other modern baseball card commands respect like a Trout rookie, especially in short printed premium parallels. It’s no surprise the X-fractor RC sits atop the value mountain for this release.

The cream of the crop rookie cards from superstar talents like Rodriguez, Witt Jr., Rutschman, along with short printed parallels and stars of Acuna, Ohtani and Trout (of course) make up the highest sought after pieces from the 2022 Donruss baseball set approaching the end of the year. With another year or playoff performances surely to come, these rookie cards in particular still have plenty of potential to appreciate further. 2022 Donruss etched several new fan-favorite rookies into the hobby.