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HIGHEST VALUE 1973 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1973 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues of all time. While it may not contain the biggest stars or most valuable rookie cards compared to other years, several high-value gems make certain 1973s very desirable for collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the priciest 1973 Topps cards that fetch thousands of dollars today.

One of the all-time prize cards from any year is the 1973 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card. While Ryan had made his MLB debut in 1966 and appeared in Topps sets starting in 1968, the 1973 was considered his true rookie card since it was the first time he was on the front of a card as a regular starting pitcher. Only about 110-150 PSA 10 Gem Mint copies are known to exist in a set with over 700 cards issued. In auction, high-grade 1973 Ryan rookies have sold for upwards of $150,000, making it one of the most expensive baseball cards ever.

Another Texas native, Johnny Bench of the Cincinnati Reds, has one of the most visually striking cards from the 1973 set. Bench is shown leaping to catch an outside pitch as his catcher’s mitt arm is extended skyward in the action image. Around 100-150 PSA 10 copies exist, and benchgraded examples in this pristine condition have sold for $20,000-$30,000 at auction. Even moderately played copies still fetch $1,000+.

Reggie Jackson’s monster 1973 season with the Oakland A’s made his card extremely collectible as well. Known as “Mr. October” for his clutch postseason heroics, Jackson slammed 32 home runs in 1973. High-grade versions of his card have exceeded $10,000 at auction due to both his on-field dominance and iconic “Reggie! Reggie!” call from A’s broadcaster Monte Moore. Like Bench, many collectors prize Jackson’s card for its eye-catching action photograph.

Hank Aaron’s 1973 is special not just because he is a true living legend, but because it was the last card produced while he was still an active player with the Atlanta Braves before retiring after the 1974 season. Aaron finished out his remarkable 24-year career with 755 career home runs, making him baseball’s all-time home run king at the time. Top-graded ’73 Aarons have been auctioned for over $7,500. Even worn, poor condition copies still sell for a few hundred due to his iconic status in the game.

Pitchers Don Sutton and Jim ‘Catfish’ Hunter, both valuable veterans on the Los Angeles Dodgers and Oakland A’s in 1973 respectively, have cards that routinely achieve prices above $1,000 in top condition. Hunter won the AL Cy Young award that season while Sutton was a reliable workhorse, and their cards remain very collectible pieces for team and player collectors.

Rookie cards are rarely the most expensive in any given year, but the 1973 set contained future Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt’s debut. Though he did not break out as one of the game’s all-time great sluggers until a few years later, mint Schmidt rookies today sell in the $500-700 range. Dave Winfield, Gary Matthews, Jeff Burroughs, and Doug Rader were other notables who had their first MLB cards in 1973 as well.

Condition is king when evaluating the investment value of any vintage sports card. For the1973 Topps set, examples grading a perfect Gem Mint PSA 10 can appreciate exponentially compared to lower graded coins. But even in well-worn Poor-Fair condition, the historic signature cards of superstars like Aaron, Bench, Jackson, and Nolan Ryan will demand prices beyond most common players decades later. For famous seasons, legendary players, and iconic photographs, the 1973 Topps baseball card set endures as one of the most visually striking and financially valuable issues in the hobby’s history books. Savvy investors would do well to seek out high-quality examples of these prized cards to hold long-term.

While it lacks some of the true rookie card superstars of other vintage years, the 1973 Topps set stands out for memorable action shots and chronicling the final seasons of iconic players like Hank Aaron. Headlined by the $100,000+ Nolan Ryan rookie and four-figure gems of Bench, Jackson, and others, it contains many blue-chip investments even after nearly 50 years. Condition is paramount, and the steep multiples achieved by pristine mint examples reveal the long-term potential for appreciation for holders of these classic cardboard pieces of baseball history.

HIGHEST PAYING BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards have long captured the passions of collectors thanks to their nostalgia and value. Certain cards represent some of the most coveted and expensive collectibles in the world, selling for prices that seem unfathomable to casual fans. With millions of baseball cards printed over the decades, only a select few can claim the distinction of being among the highest paying and valuable cards in the hobby. Let’s take a closer look at some of these legendary pieces of cardboard and what makes them so desirable.

Perhaps the most famous and world-renowned baseball card is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Widely considered the mona arch and “Mona Lisa” of sports cards, it is consistently cited as the most expensive trading card in existence. The Wagner card is essentially the Holy Grail for collectors thanks to its rarity, beauty, and association with one of the early game’s biggest stars. It is estimated that only 50-200 Wagner cards were printed by the American Tobacco Company before Wagner demanded his image be pulled for promoting tobacco. This extreme scarcity helped drive a Wagner card to shatter records when one in near-mint condition sold at auction in 2016 for $3.12 million, making it literally worth more than its weight in gold. No other card even comes close to the monetary value and veneration associated with Honus Wagner’s diminutive smile framed in that iconic tobacco back.

Another extremely valuable early card is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth rookie card. As one of the earliest representations of the legendary Babe Ruth before he became the dominant slugger that redefined baseball, the Baltimore News rookie holds tremendous historical significance. Like the Wagner, very few of these were printed and have survived in good condition nearly 110 years later. In January 2021, a PSA graded example fetched over $5.2 million at auction, making it one of the highest selling baseball cards ever. Other noteworthy pre-war Ruth cards that can fetch millions include issues from the 1915 Cracker Jack set as well as high-grade examples from the famous 1916 M101-8 Sporting News and 1917 series. No player is perhaps more synonymous with America’s pastime than Babe Ruth, and his early cards exemplify the intersection of sport, history, and collectibles.

Jumping ahead several decades, the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card holds a revered status among post-war collectors. Produced during the dawn of the modern baseball card era, the Mantle rookie was rarer than most issues of the time and captured “The Commerce Comet” in his prime with the New York Yankees. Low print runs and the fact that many were pulled from circulation due to its perceived “risque” photo of Mantle admiring his muscles, have made 1952 Topps Mantles incredibly scarce to find in pristine condition today. In recent years, mint PSA Gem MT 10 examples have crossed the auction block for well over $500,000. The card serves as a treasured piece of Americana, cementing Mantle’s place alongside legends like Ruth and Gehrig in card collecting lore.

For many younger collectors, one of the most recognizable and iconic card issues is the 1975 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie card. As one of the most prolific home run hitters of the 1970s/80s, Schmidt’s rookie set the standard for third basemen during Major League Baseball’s “Steroid Era.” While print runs for ’70s cardboard was much higher than the collectibles of the 1910s, high-grade Schmidt rookies are still difficult to acquire today and command big prices. In 2020, a BGS/PCG graded 9.5 sold at auction for over $225,000. Such a high final bid reflects Schmidt’s enduring popularity and talent, as well as the increased focus third-party grading brings to vintage identification and preservation nearly 50 years later. If condition and demand continue increasing as they have, Schmidt rookies could eventually join the $500,000 club alongside other top postwar cards.

No discussion of high-dollar modern cards would be complete without mentioning some of the legendary rookie issues of the late 1980s and early 90s. Stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Barry Bonds produced some of the most iconic and valuable rookie cards ever. None are more renowned or treasured than the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr., widely considered the perfect 10 of baseball cards. The sharp photography, superb on-card autograph, and Griffey’s boyish charm made this one of the most desired and collected cards upon release over 30 years ago. In 2021, a PSA 10 mint version sold at auction for over $3.12 million, eclipsing even the record set by the Honus Wagner 17 years prior. While the jaw-dropping price was certainly influenced by recent frenzied collectibles markets and Griffey’s status, it shows how these late 20th century cards have truly grown to rival the classics of the pre-war era in cultural impact and monetary worth.

While millions of baseball cards circulate in the collecting community, only a rare few can claim the exclusive title of being among the highest paid. From the unsurpassable Honus Wagner, to the historic achievement of a modern-day card like the 1989 Griffey matching its price, these pieces of history continue to mesmerize and appreciate over time. Few other collectibles can match the nostalgia, player association, and monetary investment potential that the best of the best baseball cards provide. Whether you’re an astute investor chasing the next seven-figure sale or a casual fan reveling in memories of childhood summers, cards like these represent some of the most prized pop culture artifacts in the world and continue to shape the fascinating evolution of the collecting industry.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS 1991

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The year 1991 produced some incredibly valuable baseball cards that are highly sought after by collectors today. While baseball cards from the late 1980s are generally considered the peak years for values, several standouts emerged from 1991 sets that can fetch big money in today’s market. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most expensive 1991 baseball cards that bring top dollar for collectors.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (Bowman) – Widely considered one of if not the best rookie card of all time, Griffey’s debut Bowman issue from 1991 is the undisputed most valuable card from that year. Griffey would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie is one of the most iconic in the hobby’s history. PSA 10 graded copies have sold for over $100,000 in recent years, with raw near-mint copies still fetching thousands. Even well-centered examples in rougher condition sell for multiple hundreds. The Griffey rookie simply cannot be topped from 1991 and remains one of the hottest modern rookie cards period.

Chipper Jones Rookie Card (Bowman) – Like Griffey, Jones enjoyed a brilliant big league career that has made his rookie one of the most coveted from the early 90s. Copies in PSA 10 condition have broken the $10,000 barrier in auction, with raw near-mint copies selling for $3,000-$5,000 depending on centering quality. Even in EX-MT condition raw, Jones’s debut commands over $1,000 due to his Hall of Fame credentials and the card’s sheer scarcity in high grade. For 21st century rookies, it doesn’t get much better than Chipper’s Bowman issue.

Alex Rodriguez Rookie Card (Bowman) – A-Rod burst onto the scene as one of the game’s most hyped prospects ever and his debut Bowman ticket captures that excitement. PSA 10 examples have topped $7,000 at auction in recent memory with raw NM/MT copies selling in the $2,000-3,000 range. Even heavily played copies can garner $300-$500 based purely on Rodriguez’s playing accolades. While overshadowed a bit by Griffey and Jones, A-Rod’s rookie remains a true blue chip and benchmark card from the early 90s draft era.

Derek Jeter Rookie Card (Bowman) – Like Rodriguez, Jeter debuted in 1991 Bowman as one of the era’s most heralded amateur prospects. While not as flashy stats-wise as some of his peers, Jeter’s legendary career and iconic status as a lifelong Yankee makes his rookie a true icon. PSA 10 Jeter rookies have cracked $5,000, with NM/MT copies bringing $1,500-2,500 depending on centering. Even worn out copies can find $200-300 based on name recognition alone. A true modern star player rookie and darling of the early 90s Bowman crop.

Tom Glavine Rookie Card (Bowman) – Glavine emerged as a superstar hurler for the Atlanta Braves dynasty teams of the 1990s, capturing two Cy Young Awards along the way. His rookie card captured the attention of collectors and still holds value today. PSA 10 examples have hit $4,000, with raw NM copies selling for $1,000-1,500. Even moderately played copies can find $200-300 due to Glavine’s brilliant career stats and hardware hauls. A true ace pitcher rookie from the early draft era.

Jeff Bagwell Rookie Card (Bowman) – Bagwell was coming off a stellar amateur career when drafted by Houston in 1989, starring at Boston College before signing. His 1991 Bowman rookie established him as a can’t-miss prospect, and he didn’t disappoint in the majors. Bagwell piled up MVPs and Silver Sluggers en route to Cooperstown. His Bowman RC in PSA 10 has reached $3,000, with raw NM copies around $800-1,000. Even well-used copies still fetch $150-200 because of Bagwell’s elite skills and Hall of Fame induction. An absolute slugger rookie from 1991.

Bobby Bonilla Rookie Card (Donruss) – An All-Star caliber player during his heyday with the Pirates and Mets, Bonilla’s career stats may not be HOF worthy but his popularity in the early 90s made his rookie cards hot commodities. His flagship Donruss rookie leads the way, with PSA 10s reaching $1,500 recently and raw NM copies selling for $400-600. Even worn VG-EX copies can find $50-100 based on name value from Bonilla’s prolific playing days. A true star at the time rookie.

David Cone Rookie Card (Donruss) – As a 19-year Yankee hurler, Cone collected pennants, a perfect game, and two Cy Young Awards on his way to Cooperstown. His 1987 Donruss RC established him as a touted prospect and still holds strong collector demand. PSA 10s have reached $1,000, with raw NM copies around $300-500 depending on centering quality. Even heavily played copies can gain $50-100 due to Cone’s brilliant career in pinstripes and beyond. Iconic Yankees pitcher rookie.

Jose Rijo Rookie Card (1989 Score Traded) – While not a true “1991” issue, Rijo’s scarce rookie from 1989 Score Traded remains a six-figure gem and one of the era’s rarest. Copies have been auctioned raw for over $50,000 due to the Cy Young-caliber arm Rijo flashed, even despite injuries cutting his career short. Widely considered the rarest Reds/Score card around and a true Condition Sensitive jackpot hit for collectors.

While 1990s stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, and Tom Glavine dominate the highest prices, 1991 still produced many iconic rookie tickets and true star player issues that drive strong collector demand today. For condition-sensitive investing, cards like Rijo’s traded set the bar, but even heavily played copies of stars like Bonilla and Cone can still have value for collectors three decades later. 1991 was a truly great year for baseball cards and rookies that have held up extremely well to this day.

HIGHEST VALUE 1990 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic releases from the infamous “junk wax” era of the late 1980s-early 1990s. While packs were readily available and the print runs massive compared to earlier decades, there are still some highly valuable gems to be found in the 792 card base set. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and historically significant rookie cards and chase cards from the 1990 Fleer issue.

Perhaps the most well-known and coveted card from the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Griffey was already showing signs of superstardom in his rookie season of 1989 with the Seattle Mariners. His sweet left-handed swing and highlight reel catches in center field made him an instant fan favorite. The Griffey rookie is one of the most iconic baseball cards ever released and still among the most sought-after by collectors today. In pristine mint condition, a PSA 10 Griffey 1990 Fleer RC regularly fetches well over $10,000. Even lower graded copies in NM-MT 8 or 9 condition can bring $1,000-$3,000.

Another tremendously valuable rookie is the Frank Thomas issue. Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt” ascended immediately to the upper echelon of MLB sluggers and would go on to have a Hall of Fame career. Thomas smashed the rookie home run record in 1990 and won the AL MVP in 1993 and 1994. High grade PSA 10 Thomas rookies now sell in the $4,000-$6,000 range, with 8s and 9s still worth $500-$1,500. There is a noticeable jump compared to just a few years ago, as Thomas has rightfully cemented his legacy as one of the game’s all-time great power hitters.

While not rookies, the 1990 Fleer set also featured the last cards produced of some all-time legends like Roberto Clemente and Sandy Koufax. Both struggled with injuries late in their careers and tragically passed away long before their time. The Koufax and Clemente cards from the set pay homage to their tremendous careers and impacts on the game. In pristine condition these rare “final cards” can reach over $1,000 each. Other stars featured included Nolan Ryan nearing the end of his record-breaking career and Reggie Jackson in his second stint with the A’s.

The crown jewel “chase card” of the set is the Ken Griffey Jr. photo variation. On the standard Griffey RC, his name is written in a simple white font across the bottom. On the extremely rare photo variation, his name is incorporated directly into a multi-color team logo. While the picture is the same on both, the difference in the text makes this one of the most coveted error cards ever. Only a handful are known to exist in true gem mint condition and one recently sold for nearly $100,000. Even well-centered examples in PSA 9 can fetch $10,000+.

In addition to star rookies and legends, there are some other valuable vintage player cards that stand out. The Cal Ripken Jr. issue regularly sells for $300-$500 in top grades, recognizing his incredible consecutive games played streak. The Wade Boggs card appreciates due to his batting titles and the Red Sox nostalgia it conjures. PSA 10 Darryl Strawberry and Kirby Puckett RCs can reach $500-700 given their popularity and talent level. And the Ozzie Smith card pays tribute to one of history’s greatest defensive wizards at shortstop.

When properly graded and preserved, 1990 Fleer cards are some of the most affordable entries into high-end vintage collecting. While print runs were huge, the cardboard quality was also quite subpar compared to earlier decades. Locating cards in true gem mint condition, especially of the stars and key rookie issues, is still challenging over 30 years later. For collectors on a budget, these historic pieces of baseball memorabilia represent an opportunity to acquire iconic cards that will surely continue appreciating over the long run. The 1990 Fleer rookie class has rightly cemented its place amongst the hobby’s most storied years for young talent.

While the 1990 Fleer set comes from baseball’s junk wax era, there remain several standout, investment-grade cards that are among the most valuable and beloved in the entire vintage collecting landscape. Rookies like Griffey, Thomas, and Puckett anchor the beginnings of surefire Hall of Fame careers, while stars like Ripken, Boggs and final issue legends make the set one to watch for hidden gems and future appreciation even decades later. With just the right combination of star power, condition and timing, these crucial pieces of sports collectibles history can still bring five and even six-figure prices.

HIGHEST VALUE 1991 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Topps baseball card set is highly sought after by collectors due to several scarce and valuable rookie cards that were released that year. While 1991 did not feature any superstar rookie cards on the level of a Ken Griffey Jr. or Frank Thomas rookie from 1989 and 1990 respectively, it did debut cards for players like Alex Rodriguez, Chipper Jones, and Jim Abbott that have stood the test of time. For collectors looking to invest in vintage 90s cards, here are some of the most valuable 1991 Topps rookie and star player cards to keep an eye out for:

Alex Rodriguez #1 RC (Rookie Card) – As one of the greatest baseball players of all time, A-Rod’s rookie card from his time with the Seattle Mariners is arguably the most coveted card from the 1991 Topps set. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, this card has sold for over $400,000 at auction. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8-9 Excellent-Mint range can fetch $3,000-$8,000. What makes this card so scarce and valuable is that Topps only printed it with a photo variation and error-free version, making high grade PSA 10 copies extremely tough to find.

Chipper Jones #1 RC – Another future Hall of Famer, Chipper Jones’ rookie card has stood the test of time as one of the key rookie cards from the early 90s. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint slab, Chipper’s rookie has sold for over $15,000 at auction. Lower graded PSA 8-9 copies commonly sell in the $1,500-$3,000 range.

Jim Abbott #500 – Abbott’s story of being born without a right hand yet still forging a career as a major league pitcher makes his rookie card especially popular. High grade PSA 10 Gem Mint copies have sold for up to $1,500. Most PSA 8-9 Excellent-Mint versions trade hands between $300-$750.

Bobby Bonilla #481 – An All-Star throughout the 80s and early 90s, Bonilla’s star power makes his base rookie card a solid investment piece from 1991 Topps. PSA 10s have reached close to $1,000, with PSA 8s settling in the $100-$300 range.

David Justice #629 – As a two-time All-Star and key member of the 1990s Atlanta Braves dynasty, Justice’s rookie card remained coveted. PSA 10 copies can top $600, with PSA 8s around $75-$150.

Derek Jeter #105 – While not technically his true rookie card debut (that came in 1992 Topps), Jeter’s first appearance in Topps is always in demand from collectors. PSA 10 Gem Mint versions sell for $300-$600 depending on auction activity. PSA 8 copies tend to trade in the $50-$150 bracket.

Jeff Bagwell #660 – Bagwell finished runner up for NL MVP in 1994 and was a consistent All-Star and Silver Slugger winner throughout the 90s. His rookie card has fared well, with PSA 10s reaching $400. Most PSA 8 copies settle between $75-$150.

Barry Bonds #215 – Already a 3x All-Star by 1991, Bonds’ on-card presentation from his Pirates days remains a key card and investment piece for collectors. PSA 10 Gems sell for $200-$400 on average. PSA 8s trade hands closer to the $50-$100 price point.

Reggie Sanders #491 RC – Sanders developed into a solid power-hitting outfielder throughout his career. high quality PSA 10 rookie cards have topped $250. PSA 8s are found for $50-$125.

Gary Sheffield #1 RC – “Sheff” was an impact player right away and went on to hit 500 home runs and garner 9 All-Star nods. His Topps rookie in PSA 10 condition has reached $200, while most PSA 8s trade between $50-100.

Fred McGriff #7 – Already a star by 1991, McGriff’s powerful bat and consistent production keeps his cards relevant for collectors. PSA 10 copies of his 1991 Topps card float around $150. Most PSA 8s are found in the $30-$75 range.

Ken Griffey Jr. #1 Update RC – While not his true debut card, Griffey’s first appearance in the ’91 Update set remains a viable purchase despite being an update card. PSA 10 Gems have brought over $1,000. PSA 8 versions settle at $150-300.

The 1991 Topps set is worth exploring for collectors seeking affordable vintage rookie cards from future Hall of Famers like Alex Rodriguez, Chipper Jones, and Derek Jeter. High grade copies of stars like Barry Bonds, David Justice and Fred McGriff also retain value due to their sustained success throughout the 1990s and beyond. For investors, the A-Rod and Chipper Jones rookies stand out as blue chip cards that can continue appreciating over the long haul. Grading your valuable 1991’s with a service like PSA can unlock even more value and liquidity if purchasing raw copies.

HIGHEST VALUE 1990S BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990s brought about a renewed boom in the hobby of baseball card collecting. Fueled by the rise of sports specialization networks like ESPN and the debut of baseball legends like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and Mark McGwire, interest in the sport and its memorabilia skyrocketed. This led to a surge in the production and release of new baseball card sets each year by the major card companies like Topps, Fleer, and Score.

Among the sea of cards printed during this decade, a select few have emerged as the most highly-valued and highly-priced 1990s baseball cards. Some of these elite cards feature rookie seasons of future Hall of Famers, while others capture historic statistical milestones. Let’s take a look at some of the crown jewels from the 1990s that are among the most desired by collectors today.

At the top of most lists for rarest and most valuable 1990s baseball cards is the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie card from 1989. Often cited as the best rookie card of all time due to Griffey’s career numbers and iconic status in the game, this rare find in pristine condition can fetch well over $100,000 at auction. The card’s scarcity and Griffey’s sustained superstardom over 13 All-Star seasons have kept demand ultra-high.

Another awe-inspiring rookie from the late 80s/early 90s holds immense value – the Frank Thomas rookie from 1990 Donruss. Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt” put together a Hall of Fame career and his RCs have soared in price in response, with a PSA 10 example selling for over $50,000. Thomas’ mammoth home run and RBI totals make this one a must-have for serious collectors.

Moving into the mid-1990s, no card carries more historical significance than the ultra-rare 1994 Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck Short Print. Only 110 of these elusive SP cards are known to exist, making each one practically priceless. In 2013, one achieved a record-setting auction price of $99,624. It captured Griffey’s move from Seattle to Cincinnati during this peak point in his career.

The 1998 Bowman Chrome Refractors really raised the bar for “hits” and parallels when they were released. Featuring a dazzling rainbow refractor coating, cards of Alex Rodriguez rookie season take the prize. High-grade A-Rod refractors have changed hands for over $30,000 in recent years. The card truly ignited demand for flashy parallels that remains today.

Perhaps no other player exploded onto the scene in the 90s quite like Mark McGwire after he shattered Roger Maris’ single season home run record with 70 bombs in 1998. His seminal rookie card from 1987 Topps and record-setting home run chase parallels became the talk of the card world. PSA 10 copies of his iconic 1998 Score #144 HR leaders card (where he’s pictured mid-swing) have sold for upwards of $15,000.

Barry Bond’s monstrous chase for the all-time home run crown in the late 90s also fueled collector fervor for his vintage cardboard. Particularly prized are high-grade copies of his rookie season cards from 1986 Fleer, 1988 Score, and 1989 Topps. A ’98 Finest Refractor pulling double duty as his 700th career homer and refractor parallel also rings up big numbers on the secondary market.

Rookie cards of future stars like Nomar Garciaparra, Derek Jeter, and Chipper Jones fueled collector interest in the mid-90s as well. Though not quite the household names of Griffey or McGwire at the time, cards from these superstars’ early years have grown in value right along with their playing careers. A PSA 10 Jeter RC from 1992 Topps can now sell for over $10,000.

While high-profile stars and historic statistical milestones drove the biggest prices in the era, Error Cards from the 90s have also developed cult followings and immense appreciation over the years. Accidental oddball cards like the infamous 1997 Pinnacle “WWF” Wrestling Refractor parallel of Ken Griffey Jr. are endlessly fascinating to collectors. Finding one in circulation is akin to striking gold in the card collecting world.

As today’s collectors reminisce on the sports memories of their childhood and seek tangible remnants of their favorite players from the late 20th century, the nostalgia factor has only enhanced demand. While the glut of mass-produced cardboard from the booming 90s ensures most common cards remain relatively affordable, the true elite RCs, parallels, and errors continue an impressive rise and maintain top-tier status among vintage baseball collectors. The richest stories and players from this epic era in card history live on through the highest value 1990s cards.

HIGHEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has grown exponentially over the past several decades. As the collectibles market has boomed, so too have the prices people are willing to pay for the rarest and most desirable baseball cards. eBay has become the preeminent online marketplace for selling collectibles of all kinds, including vintage baseball cards. Through eBay sales we have seen record prices paid for some of the most iconic cards from the early days of the sport. Below is an in-depth look at some of the highest selling baseball cards that have been auctioned off on eBay over the years.

One of the earliest and most expensive baseball cards ever sold on eBay was a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card that was graded Mint 9 by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). This iconic Wagner card is considered the holy grail of baseball cards due to its rarity—it is estimated only 50-200 were originally printed. In 2016, this near perfect example of the elusive T206 Wagner smashed expectations when it sold for $3.12 million, making it not only the highest selling baseball card ever sold on eBay but one of the costliest collectibles of any kind. What makes the price even more impressive is that the previous eBay record for a T206 Wagner was $657,250 set back in 2007.

Another T206 Wagner card would set the second highest price paid for a baseball card on eBay. In 2016, a PSA Authentic specimen graded Fair 2 fetched an astounding $911,500. While heavily played, this example still brought an eye-popping eight figures due to the extreme scarcity of the T206 Wagner in any grade. Just one year later, in 2017, yet another PSA-graded T206 Wagner, this one earning an overall grade of Good 2.5, would break the $1 million threshold when it closed at $1,320,000. The skyrocketing prices cemented the T206 Honus Wagner as officially the most valuable baseball card—and arguably the most valuable collectible card—in the world.

While the T206 Wagners reign supreme as the highest selling cards on eBay ever, some more modern rookie cards have also broken records. In 2007, a 1963 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 sold for a then-record $100,100. The iconic Mick’s first Topps issue remains one of the most sought-after rookies in the hobby even decades after his playing days. A few years later, in 2011, a 1952 Topps Willie Mays rookie PSA 9 would surpass the Mantle when it sold for an astonishing $450,000. Mays’ brilliant career and the superlative condition of this example helped it become the first post-war baseball card to break the $400k price barrier.

Two legendary rookie cards from the 1970s would explode on the scene in the mid-2010s, setting new standards for modern era cards. In 2016, a 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie PSA 9 sold for an incredible $465,000. Considered the best hockey player of all-time, interest in Gretzky’s first issued card had grown substantially in previous years. Then in 2017, a 1976 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie PSA 9 achieved the highest public sale price for any card not featuring Honus Wagner when it closed at $521,000. Ripken’s iconic Iron Man streak and the condition of the card wowed bidders. Both sales highlighted how rookie cards of select all-time greats from the ’70s and ’80s era had begun seriously competing with their older counterparts in value.

Two more modern rookies joined the seven-figure club on eBay in 2021. A 1979 O-Pee-Chee Gretzky rookie PSA 9.5 shattered expectations when it sold for a whopping $1.29 million in January of that year. Remarkably pristine for its age and from a short printed Canadian set, it became the new most valuable hockey card overall. Meanwhile in August 2021, a 1998 Bowman’s Best Refractors Frank Thomas rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 set the record for highest price paid for any card from the 1990s at $1.447 million. The condition and appeal of Thomas’ first ever “refractor” parallel helped it beat out even the great vintage cards for the second highest baseball card sale on eBay at the time.

While the Honus Wagner T206s will likely remain the highest selling cards on the platform in perpetuity, eBay sales have demonstrated the rising values of star rookie cards from more recent generations. Products from the 1970s, such as the Gretzky and Ripken rookies, have broken into the five and six figure range. Meanwhile a select few modern issues like the 1998 Thomas refractor and 1979 Gretzky have achieved previously unthinkable million dollar price points. As star players of today like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Shohei Ohtani start their respective careers, will their rookie cards from the 2010s someday compete with even the all-time greats? Only time will tell, but based on the escalating prices seen on eBay, the collectibles market will surely continue rewarding exceptionally preserved cards of certified future Hall of Famers for generations to come.

HIGHEST VALUE 1980 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1980 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues of all time due to featuring some of the biggest stars and rookie cards from that era. While not quite as valuable as some earlier sets from the 1950s and 1960s, there are still quite a few highly coveted cards that can command big money today if in pristine condition. Let’s take a look at some of the highest value 1980 Topps baseball cards that avid collectors are always on the hunt to acquire.

One of the most well-known and valuable 1980 Topps cards is the rookie card of Hall of Famer Wade Boggs. As one of the best contact hitters and third basemen of his generation, Boggs went on to compile over 3,000 career hits and win five batting titles. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, his iconic rookie card can sell for upwards of $15,000 due to its significance and his stellar major league career. Another highly sought after rookie is that of Rickey Henderson. As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer ever, Rickey’s 1980 Topps RC has increased exponentially in value in recent years, with PSA 10 examples now over $12,000.

Two other star rookie cards that can demand five figures are those of Hall of Famer Eddie Murray and Fernando Valenzuela. Murray was one of the steadiest offensive producers of the 1980s and his rookie is around $8,000 PSA 10. Meanwhile, Fernando Mania was in full effect after his dazzling rookie season and NL Rookie of the Year campaign in 1981 thrust him into the national spotlight. His iconic smiling RC gets close to $9,000 for pristine condition. Continuing with standout rookie cards, Nolan Ryan’s final Topps issue as an Angel fetches $4,000 PSA 10 due to his already established stature by that point. Also of note is Dwight Gooden’s rookie, at $3,500 in top shape given his dominance as a teenager in 1984.

In addition to tremendous rookie cards, the 1980 Topps set features several iconic stars whose gem mint examples command five-figure sums. Perhaps the biggest star of that era was George Brett, and a PSA 10 of his distinctive action pose card approaches $15,000. Mike Schmidt, holder of the single-season home run record for third baseman at the time, has a $12,000 10 in recent sales. Reggie Jackson, even after being traded in the late 70s, still held star power that his ’80 issue reflect at $10,000 pristine. Not to be outdone, fellow slugger Dave Kingman gets to $9,000 with his patented home run swing captured on cardboard.

The 1980 Topps set also contained a handful of legacy stars winding down their careers that are prized by collectors. A 10 of Yankee captain Thurman Munson would set a buyer back around $7,500 now due to his tragic passing in 1979. Meanwhile, Brooks Robinson’s poised fielding stance finds $6,000 in top condition as he closed out his Hall of Fame career. Perhaps most desirably are pristine examples of the final Topps cards issued of Hank Aaron and Willie Mays before leaving the game. In a PSA 10 state of preservation, Aaron commands $10,000 while Mays fetches $11,000 as the perfect way to memorialize two of the all-time home run kings.

While star power and rookie cards reign supreme, error and variation cards from 1980 Topps can also hold tremendous collector value. One of the biggest error cards is the miscut Robin Yount with a portion of the next card showing, which at a true PSA 10 Gem Mint state brings $15,000. Another error hitting five figures is the uniquely missed-trim Nolan Ryan at nearly $12,000 flawless. Variations such as the Jim Rice/George Brett dual photo negative printing plates can get to $10,000 in top condition as ultra-rare anomalies. Even relatively common rainbow parallel and negative cards rise above the $5,000 mark in high grades due to the elusive nature of true pristine examples.

While the 1980 Topps set overall may not command the same kind of vintage prices as its predecessors, there are still various keys that have ascended well into five-figure territory for patient collectors. Rookie gems of future Hall of Famers like Boggs, Henderson and Murray continue rising in parallel with their career achievements. Meanwhile, stars of that era like Brett, Schmidt and Munson stay coveted targets for their signature cards frozen in the product’s earliest issues. Greatest of all time legends Aaron and Mays fittingly capped off their memorable playing careers with the set as well. With iconic photography, premier rookie debuts and investment-worthy error and variation specimens, the 1980 Topps release endures as an undeniably significant sports card set.

HIGHEST PRICED BASEBALL CARDS 1990s

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The 1990s was a transformative decade for the baseball card collecting hobby. After an economic crash in the late 1980s that depressed card values, collectors in the 1990s pursued ultra high-end vintage cards with a renewed vigor. This created a hot market for some of the rarest and most coveted cards produced prior to the 1950s. Three cards in particular reached new heights in price that still stand as records today – the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, and the 1913 Baba Armour T206 card featuring “Shoeless” Joe Jackson.

The crown jewel of the hobby, the fabled T206 Honus Wagner, had always been the most expensive collectible card. But in the 1990s its value exploded. In 1991, a PSA MINT 9 example sold for $139,000, blowing away the previous record. Things only escalated from there, with a PSA Authentic grade 5 bringing $451,000 at auction in 1997. The card’s mystique and rarity helped it break new barriers, establishing it as a true seven-figure rarity. Some estimate fewer than 60 high-grade T206 Wagners are known to exist today.

Not to be outdone, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle also climbed to new highs. A PSA MINT 9 of “The Mick’s” iconic rookie shattered estimates, selling for $110,000 at Robert Edward Auctions in 1997. It was nearly triple the Card’s previous record and showed Mantle’s cardboard was joining Wagner in the exclusive million-dollar club. Like the Wagner, the ’52 Topps Mantle has incredible rarity and a universal appeal that few other collectibles can match. It remains one of the most valuable sports cards in the world.

The third record-breaker of the 1990s was the even more elusive 1913 “Shoeless” Joe Jackson T206 card produced by the short-lived American Caramel company. Known as the “Baba” issue after the brand of cigarettes, fewer than 30 are known to exist in all grades. In 1991, a PSA Authentic example realized an astounding $191,000 at auction, far exceeding any price previously paid for a pre-war card. By the end of the decade, this incredible rarity had eclipsed six figures again – a 1999 PSA Authentic 4.5 brought $282,000. For condition, story, and rarity, few vintage cards compare to the legendary “Shoeless Joe.”

While the ultra high-end cards stole the headlines, collectibles from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s also thrived as baby boomers nostalgically pursued the cards of their childhood. Stars of that era like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Roberto Clemente saw strong overseas and American demand. 1955 Bowman color cards, dominant on the market today, remained seven-figure rarities led by the breathtakingly scarce NNOF PSA MINT 9 Hank Aaron. But it was 1960s stars that truly broke out.

Cards like the 1966 Topps Nolan Ryan and 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson rookie PSA MINT 9s climbed to $30,000-50,000 price tags in the finest grader. ’60s stars that crossed over like Pete Rose and Johnny Bench gained in popularity abroad as well. But perhaps no 1960s star shined brighter than the sayonara era of Mickey Mantle at a time of vintage appreciation. A 1968 Topps Mantle PSA MINT 9 eclipsed $100,000 at auction, showing the card’s appeal transcends eras. These prices set records for pre-1970s issues that hold to this day.

While investment drove some collectors during the golden ’90s, others pursued affordable modern stars. The early 1990s saw young superstars like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Chipper Jones produce rookie cards coveted by collectors young and old. The 1990 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie stands out as one of the most iconic and valuable modern issues, with a PSA Gem Mint 10 example bringing $100,000 at auction – unthinkable for such a recent card. This revealed an evolving collector appetite that embraced both vintage rarities and new stars.

The 1990s cemented the high-end cards above as truly investment-grade rarities. Prices climbed to never before seen amounts due to the perfect storm of vintage appreciation, increased collecting, and investment seeking stability after the 1980s financial climate. While modern cards have eclipsed some records since, the icons of the Wagner, Mantle, and “Shoeless Joe” remain untouchables that led the charge in appreciating the value of vintage memorabilia. This established baseball cards as an alternative collectible asset class that paved the way for today’s robust memorabilia and sports card marketplace. The 1990s reshaped our understanding of value in the hobby forever.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 90’s

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The 1990s were a revolutionary time for baseball card collecting. More premium editions featuring rarer inserts and autographs drove up demand and prices for the top cards from the decade. While the junk wax era flooded the market in the late 80s, collectors began to appreciate vintage cards as investments. Let’s examine some of the highest value and most sought after baseball cards from the 1990s that still command thousands of dollars to this day.

Perhaps the pinnacle card from the decade is the 1992 Bowman Chrome Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 10. Widely considered the flagship card of the 1990s, it features “The Kid” in his rookie season with the Seattle Mariners right before his back-to-back MVP seasons. The Chrome version was only inserted in 1 out of every 100 packs, making it incredibly rare compared to the standard issue card. In a pristine PSA 10 gem mint condition, one recently sold at auction for over $350,000, setting the record as the highest price ever paid for a individual 90s card. Griffey was already a budding superstar and this card, with its flashy Chrome coating, caught collectors attention.

Another Griffey rookie that rivals the Chrome is the 1992 Bowman’s Best Refractor parallel. This 1-in-24 pack insert featured the stunning refractive qualities that were just emerging in the card industry. Refractors were reserved for only the best young players, making Griffey’s inclusion quite special. In top PSA 10 condition, one recently brought over $200,000 at Goldin Auctions. It’s considered the cream of the crop among Griffey’s already iconic rookie cards.

Michael Jordan’s transition from basketball to baseball created huge demand for his 1994 Leaf Limited baseball cards. TheLeaf Limited brand was a ultra high-end set at the time with a glossy stock and sharp photo quality. Jordan’s inclusion as a White Sox prospect made his rookie card immensely popular. In PSA 9-10 gem mint condition, a Jordan Leaf Limited can sell for $50,000 or more. His rare autographed jersey card parallel from the same set in a PSA 9 brought $68,000 recently, showing Jordan’s cross-sport collectability.

Rookie cards for Derek Jeter are always in high demand and the 1996 Leaf Limited Signature Series parallel takes the cake. With on-card autographs by Jeter, these inserts were incredibly scarce. Considered the true definitive Jeter rookie autograph, a PSA 9.5 graded one obliterated records when it sold for $177,007 in 2017. It proved once again that a star’s autograph on their debut card is the holy grail for collectors.

The 1986 Fleer Update Ken Caminiti is arguably one of the biggest sleepers and bargains from the 90s. Caminiti won the 1996 NL MVP award as a member of the Houston Astros, giving collectors renewed appreciation for his rookie card a decade prior. In high grade with the update issue notation, Caminiti rookies can net over $5,000 today. It’s an example of how an under-the-radar card from the past can jump in value when a player emerges as a star.

insert cards featuring current players in vintage uniforms were all the rage in the 90s. The 1997 SP Authentic Triple Threads insert paired Ken Griffey Jr. with Cincinnati Reds and Seattle Mariners uniforms. Numbered to only 150 copies worldwide, a PSA 10 sold for $19,800 in 2016. The card’s elaborate dual patch swatch auto combination of two of Griffey’s franchise made it a true one-of-a-kind piece.

One of the more iconic baseball card designs ever was 1998 Finest Refractor parallels. Featuring stunning color-shifting refractor technology, the insert was pulled at roughly 1-per pack. Mark McGwire’s mammoth 1998 season where he broke Roger Maris’ single season home run record made his Finest refractor one of the most iconic. In top pristine condition, a 1998 Finest Refractor McGwire recently sold for $25,000, driven by nostalgia for Big Mac’s historic feat and the beautiful aesthetics of the card stock.

The impressive rookie season by Sammy Sosa in 1989 made his Bowman and Donruss cards hot commodities in the 90s. But the true crown jewel is considered his 1989 Upper Deck rookie autograph. Pulled at an absurdly rare 1-in-400 packs, a Sosa autographed rookie in PSA 10 condition recently brought an eye-popping $120,000 at auction. It exemplifies how a star’s autograph on their true rookie combined with extreme scarcity can create six figure prices.

Lastly, the1993 Pacific Ultra Baseball Tiffany parallels featuring stars like Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, and Ken Griffey Jr provided collectors another rare and flashy insert to chase in the early 90s. Featuring hologram-style color shifting technology ahead of its time, Pacific Ultra became iconic among vintage sets. Graded gem mint PSA 10s of the stars can still fetch $2,000-4,000 each today based on condition and player. They showed how innovative parallel inserts helped shape the modern collecting landscape.

The highest valued 1990s baseball cards typically feature aging stars like Griffey, Jeter and McGwire paired with either true rookie status, scarce parallels, autographs or serial numbered memorabilia components. While junk wax Era cards may be discounted, premium issues from the decade containing the above factors can still net thousands or even hundreds of thousands to dedicated collectors decades later. It’s a testament to how certain cards rise to iconic status based nostalgia, player performance and intricate card science. The 1990s truly revolutionized baseball collectibles.