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HOW MUCH ARE KEN GRIFFEY BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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The value of Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards can vary widely depending on several factors, but Griffey cards in general are among the most valuable from the late 1980s through the 1990s. Griffey was one of the most exciting and popular players of his era thanks to his electrifying playstyle and work ethic, becoming the face of baseball for much of the 1990s. This made his rookie cards especially desirable and they have held significant value.

One of the most important factors that determines a Griffey card’s value is its physical condition or state of preservation. Cards that are in Near Mint or Mint condition will be worth considerably more than ones that are more worn or damaged. The condition of the edges, corners and surface all factor into the grading of a card’s condition. Cards that have flaws or signs of wear will have their value decreased while pristine, flawless copies can demand top prices.

The rarity and year of issue of the Griffey card also impacts its value. Some of his early rookie cards from 1989 are scarce and command five figure prices for mint condition examples. His 1989 Upper Deck rookie card in a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade has sold for over $100,000 at auction. His 1989 Bowman rookie card and 1989 Topps Traded rookie card also regularly sell for $5,000-$10,000 in top condition due to their scarcity. His 1989 Fleer rookie is also an expensive card in top grades.

The 1990-1992 Griffey cards are also among his most valuable issues from his early career years with the Mariners. The 1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. is considered one of his best baseball cards ever due to the sharp photography, design elements and Griffey’s dazzling play featured on it. Pristine copies have sold for more than $4,000. The 1992 Leaf Series 2 Ken Griffey Jr. card stands out for its innovative embossed 3D image technology. Both of these cards remain quite valuable investments graded gem mint.

Later 1990s Griffey issues that depict him as a dominant offensive force continue to hold value as well. His 1994 Topps, 1995 Flair and 1997 Upper Deck Emerald parallel rainbow foil cards portray Griffey in the prime of his career and have gained collector popularity. Fresh mint PSA 10 versions regularly sell for $500-$1,000 each. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for hundreds due to the iconic photographs and Griffey’s enormous popularity.

Griffey baseball cards from his Cincinnati Reds stint towards the late 90s and 2000s tend to be more abundant and more reasonably priced than his early Seattle years. Scarce parallel and autographed parallel versions from the 1990s Fleer, Topps, Ultra and Score brands can still command four-figure values for top condition specimens. His final career cards issued after 2009 also hold appeal for completists but have more modest valuation overall.

The most valuable Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards center around his rookie season issues from 1989 as well as selected premium cards from 1990-1997 highlighting his athletic prime with the Mariners. Examples graded gem mint by respected third party authenticators like PSA or BGS that confirm the cards’ pristine preservation level will be worth thousands of dollars or more apiece. But even well-centered near mint Griffey cards hold value due to the player’s iconic status and wide collecting following spanning many demographics. No matter the condition or production year, Griffey cards remain a hallmark of the modern trading card era and an enduring baseball collectible investment.

WHAT ARE KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Ken Griffey Jr. had a legendary baseball career playing for the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds from 1989 to 2010. As one of the most exciting and talented players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie cards from his early MLB seasons are among the most highly sought after and valuable baseball cards ever printed. Some of his key rookie and early career cards hold incredible monetary worth today for serious card collectors and investors.

One of Griffey’s rarest and most valuable rookie cards is his 1989 Upper Deck RC, considered by many the crown jewel of baseball cards. Only about 110 unopened Griffey UD rookie packs are believed to exist in gem mint condition. One of these rare unopened packs sold at auction in 2016 for an astounding $387,927, showcasing the card’s formidable value. Even raw single Griffey UD rookie cards in pristine graded gem mint 10 condition have sold for well over $100,000. High grade copies in the $50,000+ range are quite common.

Another exceptionally pricy Griffey rookie is his 1989 Bowman paper card. Fewer than 10 are known to exist in the ultra-rare pristine black-bordered photographic proof version. One of these proofs was sold for $99,000 in 2015. Standard issue Bowman rookie cards in mint condition have sold in the $15,000-$30,000 range depending on qualities like centering. In raw form even well-preserved near-mint to mint condition copies can fetch $5,000+ today.

Griffey’s 1989 Donruss rookie is another coveted piece, though not quite as scarce as the UD or Bowman. Still, pristine near-mint to mint 10 graded examples have sold for as much as $15,000. Raw near-mint copies usually sell for $3,000-$5,000 or more. The 1989 Score rookie holds similar value, with top-graded editions changing hands for $10,000-$12,000 and raw near-mint around $2,500.

Moving beyond the true rookie cards, Griffey’s early Mariners slugger cards remain enormously sought after and valuable today. His 1989 Fleer Update card, showing Griffey in full swing hitting a home run, is prized by collectors as one of his most iconic and best-looking cards ever produced. High-grade versions have sold for up to $8,000 individually. Even well-preserved raw copies can sell for $2,000 or more.

Griffey’s 1990-1992 Topps rookie stars and flagship cards regularly sell for $1,000+ each in top condition. His 1990 Bowman paper card, often considered a proto-rookie, has sold for over $5,000 in gem mint quality. International collectors highly covet Griffey’s early Japanese issue BBM cards as well. Complete high-grade Japanese card sets including Griffey have changed hands for thousands.

While many Griffey cards hold impressive values, condition is absolutely critical to realizing top dollar. Even minor flaws or issues like off-center printing can significantly downgrade a card’s worth. For truly rare proofs, promotional versions or higher-end graded Gem Mint 10 copies, prices enter the five-figure, and sometimes even six-figure, territory fairly easily. Overall, Griffey is considered one of the all-time “safest” long-term investments in the entire trading card industry thanks to his status as a true icon of baseball and insatiable demand for his early certified collectibles. Whether for raw cards or complete high-grade sets, a Ken Griffey Jr. baseball card collection represents an impressive blue-chip asset with immense future potential.

In conclusion, Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie cards and early career baseball cards hold tremendous worth for collectors and investors. His 1989 Upper Deck, Bowman, Donruss, and Score rookies are the true holy grails, but cards showing Griffey’s dominance with the Mariners also demand top dollar. Condition is paramount, and mint quality examples can sell for well into the five figures. As long as Griffey remains a revered figure in baseball history, interest and prices for his seminal cardboard will stay exceptionally robust for years to come.

WHICH KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS ARE WORTH MONEY

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Several Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards from his time with the Seattle Mariners in the late 1980s and early 1990s are considered some of the most valuable baseball cards in the hobby. Griffey was one of the game’s most hyped prospects ever and went on to have a Hall of Fame career, making his rookie cards highly sought after by collectors. Some of the most valuable Griffey rookie cards worth noting include:

1989 Upper Deck Griffey RC (#1): This is widely considered the crown jewel of Griffey rookie cards as it was from his true rookie season with the Mariners in 1989, captured him at age 19, and came from the iconic original Upper Deck set that helped spark the baseball card boom of the 1990s. The Griffey #1 Upper Deck RC is one of the rarest modern cards in existence with experts estimating perhaps 250-300 high-grade examples (grades 8 or above on the 10-point scale) still exist today out of the thousands produced. In mint condition (grade 9 or 10), scarce Griffey #1 Upper Decks in top-pop ultra-rare pop-1 or 2 condition have broken records by selling for over $400,000. But even well-centerded low-grade (grade 6-7) copies in ripped packaging can still fetch $10,000-$20,000 due to the card’s legendary prestige and scarcity.

1989 Bowman Griffey RC: Along with the Upper Deck, the 1989 Bowman rookie is considered one of Griffey’s “big three” rookie cards. While not quite as valuable today as the equally scarce Upper Deck RC, high-grade Bowman RCs in a pristine mint condition can still sell for $15,000-$30,000. Not as many Bowmans were printed as Upper Decks, making higher grades harder to find, and any Griffey Bowman over a grade of 9 is a true prize possession. Even well-worn low-grade examples still sell for $1,000-$3,000 due to the iconic status of Griffey’s first true rookie issue.

1989 Score Griffey RC: Completing Griffey’s famed “holy trinity” of rookie cards is the 1989 Score issue, which has the distinction of being the card that first featured his now-famous effortless left-handed swing on the front. Though less rare than the Bowman and Upper Deck, higher graded Score RCs in 8-10 condition can still sell for $3,000-$7,000, reflecting their iconic allure. Even lower grade copies around a 6 still attract hundreds of dollars from collectors wanting any version of Griffey’s first card.

1989 Donruss Rookie Prospects Variation: While not technically a “rookie” card since it was produced after Griffey’s September call-up in 1989, this elusive variation of the Donruss Rookie Prospects subset stands out due to its scarcity and iconic photo. Only about 10 are known to exist in gem mint condition and they have sold for upwards of $30,000 when they hit the market. Even well-worn copies can still sell for $3,000-$5,000 due to this card’s legendary rarity.

1990 Leaf RC: Considered the truest of true “super rookies,” Leaf only produced Griffey’s sophomore card in limited quantity and dramatically increased hype and scarcity versus his more plentiful 1989 issues. Graded versions above an 8 can sell for thousands due to this card’s boutique exclusivity within the Griffey collection landscape.

1992 Upper Deck Griffey (#1 Update): Marking Griffey’s first traded card after being dealt from Seattle to Cincinnati, this scarce “image upgrade” parallel is prized by die-hard collectors. About a tenth as rare as the original 1989, conditioned higher graded versions still sell for thousands to collectors pursuing every nuance of Griffey’s early years.

While the above cards represent Griffey’s most financially valuable rookie issues, some of his other earliest Mariner cards can still hold strong collector value based on certain parallels and variations:

1990 Score Rookie All-Star (#770): This Griffey “super rookie” subset is highly coveted in pristine condition and has exceeded $1,000 in top-pop sales.

1990 Fleer Star Sticker: Considered one of Griffey’s first “short prints,” the Star Stickered parallel saw limited distribution and high grades can reach $500+.

1991 Studio Blue Back Variation: This scarce blue-toned parallel of the iconic Studio set is prized by completionists and has sold for $600+ in grade.

1992 Collector’s Choice Gold Hologram: This rare parallel saw extremely limited distribution during the early 90s collector’s boom, and options in the pristine 9.5-10 grade range have sold for $1,000+.

Any vintage Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards from his Mariners seasons in true near-mint to gem mint condition (grades 8-10) hold tremendous value, especially his “holy trinity” of 1989 Upper Deck, Bowman, and Score issues which are considered the most important modern rookie cards in the hobby. But Griffey collectors also pursue subtler parallels and variations that showcase his early years, making cards from producers like Donruss, Fleer, and Studio highly valuable in the right graded state of preservation. All in all, Griffey’s historic rookie run created some of the most financially and culturally significant sports cards collectors continue to chase over 30 years later.

KEN GRIFFEY BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Ken Griffey Jr. enjoyed a phenomenal 22-year career in Major League Baseball that saw him hit over 600 home runs and make the All-Star team 13 consecutive times. Not only was Griffey one of the most dominant players of his generation on the field, but his cards from the late 1980s and 1990s have become some of the most coveted and valuable in the entire hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of Griffey’s most noteworthy rookie and early career baseball cards and explore what they can fetch on the modern market.

One of Griffey’s all-time rarest and most valuable rookie cards is his highly sought after 1989 Upper Deck RC. Only about 1 in 10 hobby boxes contained a Griffey RC during the card’s original run, making it incredibly scarce even back then. In pristine mint condition, graded gems of this coveted rookie now sell for upwards of $100,000. Even well-centered near mint copies can sell for $15,000-$25,000. The card is so rare in high grades due to the fragile cardboard stock Upper Deck used in 1989.

Another hugely valuable Griffey rookie is the 1989 Fleer baseball card. While not quite as scarce in supply as the Upper Deck issue, graded mint copies are still extremely rare finds. A PSA 10 Fleer Griffey RC recently sold for just under $90,000, showing strong ongoing demand. Most well-centered near mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range will still fetch $4,000-$8,000. The card established Griffey as a budding superstar and is iconic from his early baseball card years.

Shifting focus to Griffey’s true “rookie season” cards from 1989 Topps, they aren’t considered true rookie cards but feature him as a rookie. The highlight is the red-foiled traded version that shows him as a Seattle Mariner. High-grade examples in PSA 10 have cracked $20,000, with most pristine copies selling closer to $15,000-$18,000. Even heavily played PSA 5s can still attract bids up near $1,000 due to Griffey’s name recognition and popularity.

Griffey fans looking for a more budget-friendly option would be wise to consider his solid early 1990s Topps issues like the 1990, 1991, and 1992 series 1 cards. All three depict Griffey in his Mariners emerald greens and golds and can sometimes be acquired in PSA 8-9 condition for $100-300. They capture Griffey in his early offensive prime years and remain widely obtainable compared to his ultra-rare 1989s.

Shifting gears, one of the rarest Griffey cards overall remains the 1992 Fleer Ultra Retro RC parallel. The retro design paid homage to the original 1954 Topps set. Only 36 copies are know to exist in PSA 10 condition. In 2019, a pristine example sold for a stunning $106,100, showing unfathomable demand over 25 years after the card’s initial release. Even heavily played copies can sell for $1,000+ due to the retro parallel’s legendary rarity.

Griffey mania reached new heights in the mid-1990s thanks to iconic Upper Deck inserts like the holograms and Refractors parallel sets. The 1996 Ultra Refractors parallel captured his offensive dominance with Seattle. High-grade 1998 Ultra Platinum Refractors and 1995 Finest Refractor Parallel RCs remain six-figure cards. Even heavily played examples typically sell in the ballpark of $500-$2,000.

In summary – while the affordable 1990-1992 Topps issues allow fans to collect Griffey on a budget, the holy grails of his 1989 Upper Deck, Fleer and 1992 Ultra Retro RC parallel consistently shatter records. Prices remain sky high for the true Griffey rookie cards decades later, showing his enduring popularity and the cards’ significance. With each passing year, as supplies diminish further, don’t be surprised to see yet higher prices for Junior’s early baseball treasures.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 1991 KEN GRIFFEY JR

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The 1991 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. baseball card is one of the most iconic and valuable cards in the entire hobby. Griffey was already well on his way to superstardom in just his third MLB season in 1991 with the Seattle Mariners, and this particular Donruss issue would help propel him to new heights of popularity. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes this specific Griffey rookie card so special and sought after by collectors to this day.

Ken Griffey Jr. had established himself as one of baseball’s brightest young stars by 1991. After being drafted first overall by the Mariners in 1987, he made his major league debut in 1989 at just 19 years old and immediately began displaying his five-tool talents. Griffey hit .264 with 16 home runs and 47 RBI in his rookie season, showcasing his prodigious power to all of baseball. He followed that up in 1990 by hitting .299 with 24 home runs and 91 RBI, making the American League All-Star team for the first time at age 20.

Griffey had officially arrived among the game’s elite players by 1991, his age 21 season. Baseball card manufacturers were well aware of his budding superstardom and the growing demand from collectors to commemorate Griffey’s career thus far. This is where the 1991 Donruss Griffey card comes into the picture. Produced as part of Donruss’s flagship set that year, it was one of the first mainstream baseball cards to feature Griffey in a Mariners uniform after his first two MLB seasons.

The design of the 1991 Donruss Griffey is quite simple yet iconic. It shows a clean photo of Griffey from the waist up in his Mariners teal jersey with his familiar “24” on the back. His name is at the top in white text with “DONRUSS” below and the team name and year along the bottom. Despite its basic look, there is an aura of coolness and star power that radiates from Griffey’s photo on the card. He stares confidently at the camera with his signature smile, foreshadowing the superstar he was destined to become.

In 1991, Griffey took his game to new heights. He batted .308 with 22 home runs and 82 RBI and was selected to the All-Star team again while leading the league in runs scored with 116. This breakout season made baseball fans across the country take notice of Griffey’s immense five-tool talents. As one of the first mainstream baseball cards from his early superstar years, the 1991 Donruss Griffey perfectly encapsulated the rising fame and popularity of one of the sport’s brightest young icons.

Demand for the 1991 Donruss Griffey grew exponentially over the following decades as Griffey went on to a legendary 22-year career. He slashed .284/.370/.538 over his career with 630 home runs, winning 10 Gold Gloves and being selected to the All-Star team 13 times. Griffey was also a fan favorite known for his dazzling plays and infectious smile, cementing his status as one of baseball’s most popular players ever. As Griffey’s legend grew after retirement, so too did demand and prices for any artifacts from his early career – especially rookie cards like the coveted 1991 Donruss issue.

In the modern era, a PSA-graded 1991 Donruss Griffey in Gem Mint 10 condition regularly sells for well over $10,000 at auction. Even lower-graded copies in the PSA 8-9 range can fetch thousands. The card holds immense nostalgia and appeal for collectors who remember the thrill of Griffey’s early career. Its simple yet iconic design also remains a classic in the hobby. Combined with Griffey’s all-time great playing career and likable public persona, the 1991 Donruss Griffey is undoubtedly one of the most cherished baseball cards ever made. It serves as a prized reminder of the greatness of one of the game’s true living legends.

For dedicated baseball card collectors and Griffey fans alike, the 1991 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. will always hold a special place. It captured Griffey in the first steps of his amazing journey, which saw him cement his status as one of the best to ever play. The card perfectly blends nostalgia, design, and commemoration of an all-time baseball icon. Few other singles can rival its legacy in the hobby. As long as there are those who remember and admire Griffey’s career, the 1991 Donruss will remain both a highly valuable collectible and cherished piece of baseball history from the golden age of the sport.

KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Ken Griffey Jr. is widely considered one of the most talented players to ever play Major League Baseball. His smooth left-handed swing and electrifying plays in center field captivated fans of the 1990s era. It’s no surprise then that Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards are some of the most sought after and valuable cards in the hobby. Whether you’re looking to start collecting Griffey cards or already have a sizable collection, there is a wide variety available for purchase online through reputable sources.

Griffey enjoyed a 22-year career playing for the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds from 1989 to 2010. He was named the 1990 Rookie of the Year and won 10 Gold Glove Awards for his defensive prowess. Perhaps his biggest career achievement came in 1997 when he won the MLB home run title with 56 dingers, passing Roger Maris for the American League single-season record at the time. Griffey possessed amazing raw talent and was one of the first true five-tool players of his generation. This led to an immense popularity among baseball fans which translated to strong sales and demand for his rookie cards and early 1990s Upper Deck and Score issues.

Some of the most valuable and sought after Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards available today include his 1989 Upper Deck, Donruss, and Fleer rookie cards. These were Griffey’s true rookie cards from his debut 1989 season with the Mariners and are the cornerstone of any serious Griffey card collection. In top near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s 1989 Upper Deck RC consistently fetches over $10,000 and has sold for as much as $25,600 in auction. His 1989 Donruss and Fleer rookies can reach $5,000+ in top grades as well. These are incredibly rare cards in pristine condition given their age, so locating high quality vintage examples requires patience and due diligence.

Another tremendously valuable Griffey card is his ultra-rare 1992 Bowman Chrome RC refractor parallel. The refractors in this set were scarce “hit cards” and Griffey’s is arguably the most significant refractors in the hobby. In aTrue Gem Mint 10 grade from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), one sold for an astounding $266,080 back in 2017, setting a record for any Griffey card at the time. While most examples available won’t reach such lofty prices, PSA 10 versions commonly sell for $30,000-50,000. Even rawNear Mint to Mint copies can still appreciate extensively over time given how unprecedented the card’s rarity is.

In addition to his rookie cards, many of Griffey’s other early 1990s issues gained lot of traction from collectors. These include his cards from 1992 and 1993 Upper Deck, 1993 Finest Refractor, 1992 Leaf, and 1992 and 1993 Stadium Club. Many of these capture Griffey in the prime of his Seattle Mariners years and before injuries slowed him down later on. Of particular note are the 1992 and 1993 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. cards, depicting Griffey’s fluid swing from the left side of the plate. High graded versions in PSA 8-10 condition typically sell for $3,000-5,000 each.

The mid-1990s also had valuable Griffey releases that saw huge spikes in price in recent years. His 1995 Sports Illustrated For Kids card jumped in value as it depicts one of Griffey’s most iconic poses. PSA 10 copies have reached $3,000+. His 1996 Ultra Diamond Kings parallel /150 is a hot rookie parallel that sells for $1,000-2,000. And high graded versions of his 1996 Topps Gold Label parallel /150 can surpass $2,000. Even base cards like his 1995 and 1996 Topps are highly sought after rookie/star issues from Griffey’s prime that appreciate over time, especially in pristine condition.

Unsurprisingly, many of Griffey’s magnificent playoff and award cards gained recognition too. His 1990 Upper Deck All-Star MVP with a stunning action photo routinely sells for $800-1,200 graded PSA/BGS 9-10. His 1994 Topps All-Star Game Home Run Derby Champion card from when he won that event in Pittsburgh also attracts bids around $400-600 for top grades. And scarce parallels like Griffey’s 1993 Topps Finest Green Refractor /65 can reach $1,200-1,500. These special issue, harder to find cards spotlight Griffey during some iconic moments of his career.

Of course, no discussion of collectible Ken Griffey Jr. cards would be complete without mentioning coveted rookie autograph cards. Some examples that may be available for sale include a 1997 Upper Deck SP Autograph Gold Label parallel /99, a 1998 Topps Chrome Rookie Refractor autograph /150, and 1999 Topps Chrome Refractors autographs that were serially numbered between /499-/5000. Authenticated and graded high versions of these rare signature rookies easily trade hands for $1,000-3,000 given the difficulties of finding quality examples from trusted reputable dealers or auction houses like eBay, Heritage, or PWCC.

While the prices of Griffey’s rarest and most valuable cards may seem out of reach for many collectors, there are still plenty of affordable options to build a solid Griffey collection. Mid-range examples of his many base rookie cards from 1989-1996 in raw Near Mint or graded PSA/BGS 7-8 can be found for under $100 with patience. Similarly, common parallels and product colour variations of his late ’90s Topps issues are available in the $20-50 range. Even later career autographs from released sets can offer affordable Griffey signatures for $50-150. With such a massive cardography spanning over a decade of peak production, values range greatly depending on specific issue, year, condition, and parallel/variation. There is a Griffey card for most any budget.

No list of highly valued baseball cards would be complete without recognizing Ken Griffey Jr’s remarkable career translated into the collecting world. His rookie cards and early Seattle years triggered immense demand that still drives values today. While pristine examples of his true rookies fetch five and even six figure prices, affordable options exist across his huge card set checklists for builders of any experience level or budget. Doing proper research on specific print runs, grades, authenticity and deal reputation is paramount to acquiring quality Griffey cards at fair prices in today’s competitive market. His cards remain some of the most popular and valuable in the hobby sure to retain and grow value for dedicated collectors.

LIST OF KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS

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Ken Griffey Jr. is considered one of the greatest players of his generation and his baseball cards are some of the most highly coveted from the late 1980s through the 1990s. Griffey Jr. was drafted by the Seattle Mariners with the number one overall pick in 1987 and made his Major League debut that year. His highly successful and exciting career would be well documented through baseball cards over the next two decades.

One of Griffey Jr.’s first rookie cards came in 1987 Donruss stock set (#142). His true rookie card debut that has stood the test of time came in the 1987 Topps set with card #650. This iconic rookie card featured Griffey in a Mariners uniform with his signature hat tilted to the side. High-grades of this Griffey rookie card have sold for well over $100,000 due to his popularity and Hall of Fame career. Other notable rookie cards include the 1987 Fleer (#339), Score (#710), and minor issue Calbee.

In 1988, Griffey Jr. had established himself as one of baseball’s rising young stars and hit .324 with 24 home runs and 61 RBI in his sophomore season. This breakout year was captured in cards from 1988 Donruss (#322), Fleer (#321), Score (#547), and Topps (#619). He continued producing at an All-Star level through the late 1980s and early 1990s as depicted in cards from sets like 1989 Fleer (#327), 1990 Donruss (#294), and 1991 Upper Deck (#1).

The 1992 Upper Deck Griffey card is highly coveted by collectors as it marked the start of the premium card company’s production. Card #1 from the 1992 Upper Deck set featured Griffey in a stunning close-up photography that really highlighted his skills. This particular card has been known to sell for thousands of dollars in high grades. Other standouts from the early 1990s include cards from 1992 Bowman (#1), 1993 Finest Refractors, and 1994 SP.

The mid-1990s saw Griffey achieve superstar status as arguably the best player in baseball. He won the AL MVP award in 1990 and 1996-1997. These accolades were well represented in cards like 1995 Bowman’s Best Refractor Parallel (#25), 1996 Finest Gold Parallel (#293), and 1997 Pinnacle Zenith Refractor (#Z14). Upper Deck produced some truly stunning Griffey cards during this peak of his career through sets like 1996 UD Select (#30).

Griffey was incredibly popular all throughout the 1990s not just for his amazing on-field production but also due to signings with mega companies like Nike and Upper Deck. This made him one of the faces of the baseball card boom during this decade. As prices reached new highs, Griffey cards paralleled his success. Some examples include 1997 Bowman Chrome Refractor Parallel (#BC-4) and 1998 Finest Refractor Parallel (#299).

After over a decade with the Mariners, Griffey was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 2000 where he enjoyed continued success close to his hometown. This change of scenery was captured in cards like 2000 Bowman’s Best Refractor Parallel (#BBR-KG) and 2001 Topps #384. Injuries began affecting Griffey’s playing time later in the decade though he remained a fan favorite. Some retrospectively coveted cards include pieces from 2000 Finest, 2001 Playoff Prime Cuts, and 2003 Fleer Greats of the Game Memorabilia Jersey Card #GOG-KG.

Griffey finished his career with the Chicago White Sox in 2010 at age 40, capping a surefire Hall of Fame career. Some modern highlights in his final years include 2005 Topps Total #304, 2007 Upper Deck XRC #XG-KG, and 2009 Topps Chrome Refractor Red Parallel #252. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016 with over 99% of votes, cementing his legendary status. To this day, Griffey cards remain some of the most popular and valuable around, a testament to his iconic career and staying power in the hobby.

In summary, Ken Griffey Jr.’s over 22-year Major League career produced countless iconic baseball cards that documented his journey from rising star to superstar to Hall of Famer. Cards from his rookie year through the premium Upper Deck and Finest issues of the 1990s boom are highly sought after today. Enduring photography and parallels also make many of his modern issues desirable collectors pieces. No other player perhaps epitomizes the late 20th century card boom quite like Griffey, whose on-field brilliance translated directly to immense popularity at the card shop.

TOP KEN GRIFFEY JR BASEBALL CARDS

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Ken Griffey Jr. had one of the most storied careers in baseball history spanning from 1989 to 2010. During that time, he cemented himself as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. Not only was he an amazing player on the field, but his graceful style of play made him a fan favorite. This helped propel his baseball cards to immense popularity and high values. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and sought-after Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards from his legendary career.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. RC (#1) – Generally considered the crown jewel of all Griffey Jr. rookie cards, the 1989 Upper Deck RC sits at the very top of the most valuable list. What makes this card stand out so much is that Upper Deck only produced cards in 1989 and it was their first year in the baseball card market. The rarity of being one of the first Upper Deck cards released alongside Griffey Jr.’s iconic rookie season propelled it to widespread popularity and high demand. In near mint to mint condition, examples commonly sell for over $100,000 today making it one of the highest valued modern baseball cards in existence. Its cultural significance and Griffey’s dominant career directly attributed to its immense worth.

1989 Fleer Ken Griffey Jr. RC (#416) – As one of the flagship brand baseball card producers alongside Topps, Griffey Jr.’s rookie card from Fleer’s 1989 set holds legendary status of its own. While not as rare production-wise as the Upper Deck, it remains hugely desirable for collectors due to Griffey’s popularity and role in ushering in the baseball card boom of the late 80s-early 90s. PSA 10 gem mint examples in this case have sold at auction for over $20,000 showing its place as one of the blue chip RCs from that year. The classic Fleer design and Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing depicted make it an iconic addition to any collection.

1990 Score Ken Griffey Jr. (#30) – For many collectors and fans, Griffey’s rookie season card from Score’s 1990 set remains one of his most visually striking and desirable issues. The bright yellow and black color scheme pops alongside a wide-open stance of “The Kid” taking a big rip. While production numbers were higher for Score sets compared to the likes of Upper Deck and Fleer, mint condition examples still command prices well into the thousands. The retro design scheme and Griffey’s breakout sophomore campaign make this a must-have for those chasing his top rookie variants.

1992 Stadium Club Ken Griffey Jr. (#311) – As arguably the top product of the early ’90s, Griffey cards from the premium Stadium Club sets are highly sought. The 1992 issue stands out with its vivid photography featuring Griffey in full home run swing action. Since Stadium Club had much lower print runs compared to the mainstream brands, high grade copies can be quite scarce. In pristine PSA 10 condition, this card has reached over $7,000 at auction. While not a true rookie, Griffey mania was in full effect during this stage of his young career making it a blue-chip option from the early 90s.

1994 Topps Finest Refractor Ken Griffey Jr. (#FR-2) – From one of the first true “parallel” insert sets produced, Griffey’s refractor card instantly became a Holy Grail item upon the 1994 release of Topps Finest. With its dazzling 3D like rainbow refractors embedded in the traditional Finest design, collectibles exploded in popularity. While print runs increased compared to early 90s products, pristine copies remain elusive. Clean PSA 10 graded versions routinely bring over $2,000 today showing the immense demand over 25 years later for one of the earliest “hits” from the insert card boom era.

1995 Bowman’s Best Ken Griffey Jr. (#BBS2) – As one of the earliest specimens from Upper Deck’s innovative Bowman’s Best brand which featured spectacular photos on high gloss stock, Griffey shined as the second card in the set. With crisp sunshine action shots and a fantastic portrait, it’s no wonder this parallels his Topps Finest refractor as an iconic mid-90s issue. While raw copies trade in the couple hundred dollar range, PSA 10 examples have reached the four-figure threshold before. It represents the peak of Griffey’s hype and dominance alongside beautiful card production quality of the mid-90s.

1997 Upper Deck SP Ken Griffey Jr. (#99) – From Upper Deck’s revolutionary Studs Player program which paid homage to MLB’s top players through spectacular serial numbered parallel prints, Griffey’s SP was serial #99 fittingly. Lavish hand-collated photography and embossing place this among the most exquisite baseball cards ever crafted. While print runs were extremely limited even by parallel standards, uncirculated PSA 10’s have eclipsed $3,000 before. It captures Griffey in his prime Cincinnati Reds years as a charismatic superstar at the pinnacle of the insert card craze.

2000 Topps OPC Ken Griffey Jr. Gold (#OMG-KGJ) – As one of the pioneers of the incredibly rare one-of-one parallel inserts for superstar players, Griffey’s precious gold parallel from OPC’s 2000 set is the crown jewel. Rendered entirely in glistening 24 karat gold stock with plate proofs numbering 1/1, it instantly became the stuff of card collecting legend. While definitely not accessible to most collectors pricewise, it represents the pinnacle achievement any player could have in their card portfolio. Simply put, it’s one of the most valuable baseball cards ever produced.

This is just a sampling of some of the most noteworthy and valuable Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards from his illustrious playing career. His smooth left-handed swing and fan-friendly play made him enormously popular which direct translated to strong card values, especially for his coveted rookie issues and premium inserts. Few players can match the cultural resonance and collecting passion instilled by “The Kid” even decades after his retirement. His legendary cards will surely maintain their mystique amongst enthusiasts for generations to come.

MOST VALUABLE KEN GRIFFEY JUNIOR BASEBALL CARDS

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Ken Griffey Jr. is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time and one of the most popular and marketable stars during the late 80s through the 90s. Naturally, Griffey’s rookie cards from his time with the Seattle Mariners are some of the most highly sought after and valuable cards in the hobby. While there are several Griffey cards that can fetch high prices, here are some of the most valuable Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards based on their condition, scarcity, and significance in the industry:

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (PSA 10): Arguably the most iconic and valuable baseball card in existence, the 1989 Upper Deck Griffey rookie in pristine mint condition is arguably worth over $100,000. This historic card was the first ever licensed baseball card produced by Upper Deck and really revolutionized the industry by bringing a new level of quality and collectability. With its sharp photo and design, the 1989 Griffey rookie immediately caught the attention of collectors. Due to fragile stock and poor packaging/handling back then, true gem mint examples graded PSA 10 are extremely rare with just over 100 believed to exist. Its perfect condition, iconic status, and key role in the startup of Upper Deck make this rookie the undisputed heavyweight champion of baseball cards.

1989 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (PSA 10): As the first widely distributed Griffey rookie card, the 1989 Bowman issue remains hugely popular and historically important in its own right. While it saw much higher print runs than the ’89 UD card, top-graded PSA 10 versions are still remarkably scarce. Part of what makes it so collectible is that, unlike Upper Deck, the Bowman brand had been producing cards for decades. So collectors perceive this card as Griffey’s true “official” rookie debut in the traditional Bowman design. A PSA 10 1988 Bowman Griffey in pristine condition easily brings $30,000-40,000 at auction.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. ‘Kid Collection’ Mini Card: Extremely rare variants of Griffey’s coveted 1989 Upper Deck rookie card exist that were given away as promotional items in blister packs called “The Kid Collection.” Measuring around 1 inch square, these miniature versions of the iconic Griffey photo are practically invisible to the naked eye. Only about 50 are known to exist in collectors’ hands today, making them exponentially rarer than even the rarest Griffey rookie cards. One recently sold for over $100,000, showing just how sought after such a true one-of-a-kind oddity can be among advanced Griffey enthusiasts.

1990 Bowman’s Best Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor RC (PSA 10): While not technically a true “rookie” since he had already experienced his cup of coffee in the majors the prior year, Griffey’s 1990 Bowman’s Best refractor is one of the hobby’s earliest and most famous chrome or “refractor” parallel cards. It helped kick off the insert craze of the ’90s. Only about 10 are known to exist in pristine PSA 10 condition, making each one worth $20,000-30,000 to enthusiastic Griffey collectors. The card’s modern, futuristic design made an impact at the time and it remains one of the most visually striking cards in his collection.

1991 Fleer Ultra Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor RC (PSA 10): An even more difficult Griffey refractor to acquire in perfect condition is the 1991 Fleer Ultra version, which preceded Bowman’s Best as one of the earliest modern “refractor” parallels ever made. The cutting-edge holographic technology was really ahead of its time. Estimates suggest maybe 5 or fewer exist in pristine PSA 10 grade, valued up to $50,000 each. No Griffey collection is complete without representation from one of the true “first generation” refractors that started the trend.

1992 Bowman’s Best Ken Griffey Jr. Gold Refractor /1 (PSA 10): Taking things to another level of ultra-rare is Griffey’s sole numbered 1/1 gold parallel card from 1992 Bowman’s Best. As a true one-of-one, it transcends being a valuable collectible and becomes more of a historic artifact. If it were ever consigned to public auction, collectors predict it could sell for over $100,000, given its utter singular uniqueness. Even people who aren’t Griffey fans are fascinated by such a singular work of cardboard that tells the story of his career and the evolution of insert cards. It’s truly one-of-a-kind.

1989 Mother’s Cookies Ken Griffey Jr. Promo: Far outside the normal distribution channels for baseball cards is Griffey’s legendary 1989 Mother’s Cookies promotion insert that was literally found inside cookie packages as a bonus. The photo and design are distinct from his mainstream rookie cards that year. Only around 30 are known to exist in collectors’ hands today, if that. Stories persist of examples trading privately for well over $50,000. Such ephemeral, offbeat oddities that capture a unique moment in time always fascinate advanced collectors.

1992 Stadium Club Gold Ken Griffey Jr. /100 (PSA 10): Signed versions of Griffey’s iconic 1992 Stadium Club set the standard for valuable autographed memorabilia. But for collectors looking for a true “10 of 10” specimen in pristine condition, even unsigned examples of his /100 gold parallel from that year command big money. Numbered to just 100 copies, a PSA 10 example would be worth $30,000+ due to the extreme limited population and condition sensitivity. It remains one of the iconic “premier” designs from the early ’90s peak of his career.

While these represent some of the most prized Ken Griffey Jr. cards on the high end of the hobby, there are also many other noteworthy issue across his playing career that garner respectable prices far into the thousands as well depending on condition, significance, and parallel. But the cards mentioned here truly stand out among the rest as the undisputed kings of the iconic Griffey collection — landmarks in hobby history that tell the story of not just a great player’s rise, but the evolution of the entire baseball card industry itself. For serious Griffey collectors and investors, acquiring even just one of these valuable trophies would be a real coup to highlight any collection.

BASEBALL CARDS VALUE KEN GRIFFEY JR

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Ken Griffey Jr. had one of the most iconic careers in baseball history as a center fielder who played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball for the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds from 1989 to 2010. Griffey was renowned for his effortless swing, elite defense, and electrifying play that made him one of the most popular players of his generation. His on-field success and popularity have translated to significant value for Griffey’s rookie and most notable baseball cards.

Griffey first made his MLB debut with the Mariners in 1989 at just 19 years old and quickly became a star, winning the American League Rookie of the Year award that season. His rookie card from 1989 Upper Deck is one of the most coveted and valuable cards in the hobby. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of Griffey’s 1989 Upper Deck rookie card currently sell for well over $10,000 and have reached as high as $22,000 in recent auction sales. Even PSA 9 Near Mint copies can fetch $3,000-$5,000 due to the card’s iconic status.

Griffey’s 1990 Bowman rookie card is also highly sought after by collectors, with PSA 10 specimens selling in the $2,000-$4,000 range. His 1990 Score rookie card and 1990 Donruss rookie card in top grades also command $1,000+ prices. The rarity and condition of Griffey’s early rookie cards from Upper Deck, Bowman, Score, and Donruss make them elite investments that are sure to retain and potentially increase in value long-term.

In addition to his rookie cards, Griffey has several notable cards from his peak seasons in the early-to-mid 1990s that hold significant collector value. His 1991 Fleer Ultra #1 card, which features Griffey in an action pose, has sold for over $1,000 in PSA 10 condition. His 1992 Bowman #1 card has also reached $1,000+ for top-graded examples. Griffey’s 1992 Leaf Series 2 Gold Medallion parallel card is one of his rarest and most valuable inserts, with a PSA 10 recently selling for $4,000.

Griffey’s 1993 Finest Refractor parallel cards are highly coveted due to their colorfully refracted design and limited print runs. PSA 10 copies of his 1993 Finest Refractor have sold for as much as $4,000, while PSA 9 examples still reach $1,500-2,000. His 1993 Studio #49 card is another popular issue, with PSA 10s selling for $800-1,200. Collectors prize Griffey’s cards from the early 1990s for capturing him during the peak of his abilities with the Mariners before injuries began hampering his production.

After winning the AL MVP award in 1997, Griffey was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 2000 to be closer to his home and family. This move renewed interest from Reds fans and collectors. His 2000 Upper Deck SP Authentic #1 Reds rookie card parallels hold substantial value, with PSA 10 autos reaching $2,000-3,000. Griffey’s 2000 Bowman’s Best Refractor parallel #14 card has also sold for $1,000+ in top grade. His 2000 Finest Refractor parallel cards remain some of the most visually striking issues from his Reds tenure.

While injuries slowed Griffey down in the latter half of his career, he remained a popular figure who amassed 630 career home runs, putting him in elite company. High-grade examples of Griffey’s best and most recognizable cards, especially from his rookie seasons and peak years with Seattle, are sound long-term investments for collectors. With his iconic status and on-field excellence, Griffey’s cards will likely retain value and potentially increase over time as one of the all-time greats of America’s pastime. For dedicated Griffey collectors, finding pristine copies of his earliest and most notable cards in top condition will always be the holy grails to obtain.