Tag Archives: highest

HIGHEST PRICE SCORE BASEBALL CARDS 1985

Leave a reply

The year 1985 produced some of the most valuable and iconic baseball cards of all time. While the Jordan rookie card from the same year in basketball often gets more attention, several 1985 cards have eclipsed $1 million in sales and set records for prices achieved at auction. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive and coveted cards from the 1985 baseball season based on their PSA grading and population data.

Without question, the most valuable baseball card released in 1985 is the Mike Trout rookie card. Even though Trout was just a promising 18-year old prospect starting his first full season in the Angels’ farm system that year, collectors immediately recognized his immense talent. Trout’s rookie card was printed by Topps as part of their standard baseball card release and carries the numberED-MT. In a PSA 10 gem mint condition, this card has sold for as much as $3.912 million, shattering records. Even well-centered near-mint PSA 9 copies can sell for over $400,000. What makes the Trout so highly sought after is his eventual ascension into arguably the best baseball player of his generation. After winning 3 MVP awards and making 9 All-Star teams in his first 10 seasons, Trout has cemented his card as one of the true blue chip investments in the hobby. With possibly another decade of elite play still ahead, the Trout rookie could end up as the most valuable baseball card ever.

Another star from the 1985 Topps set that frequently makes “highest price” lists is the Kirby Puckett rookie card numbered 518. Like Trout, Puckett went on tohave a Hall of Fame caliber career primarily with the Minnesota Twins, winning 6 batting titles and helping lead them to 2 World Series Championships in the early 90s. In a PSA 10 mint state, Puckett’s rookie has sold for as much as $96,000, while PSA 9 near mint copies regularly sell for over $10,000. The hallmark of the Puckett card is his beaming smile and joy for the game that made him a fan favorite. This positive imagery along with his baseball success and Midwestern fanbase have sustained the card’s popularity and valuation over decades.

While Trout and Puckett were future stars, one of the biggest baseball legends of the 1980s had arguably his best season in 1985 – Pedro Guerrero of the Los Angeles Dodgers. That year, Guerrero hit .318 with 22 home runs and 100 RBI, finishing third in MVP voting. His performance was recognized by the 1988 Topps Traded set, which featured a spectacular action photo of Guerrero swinging the bat. Numbered T155, Guerrero’s ’85 Traded card in PSA 10 condition has sold for as much as $82,000. Many consider it the most iconic card from that set. Even raw or lower graded examples still command prices into the thousands due to the sheer visual pop and Guerrero’s place in Dodgers/NL West history.

Though they didn’t pan out as the careers of Trout, Puckett or Guerrero, a couple of other big name prospects from 1985 also have valuable rookie cards. First is Bret Saberhagen of the Kansas City Royals. Saberhagen won the Cy Young award in both 1985 and 1989 after posting a 23-6 record and 2.87 ERA as a 21 year old in his first full major league season. His Topps rookie card is numbered 397 and has sold for over $19,000 in PSA 10 grade. Second baseman Lou Whitaker of the Detroit Tigers also had a promising rookie year, hitting .293 in 115 games. His #481 rookie card from 1985 Fleer is highly sought after by Tigers collectors, selling for upwards of $10,000 pristine. Both Saberhagen and Whitaker showed all-star caliber potential that year that made their cards appreciating investments, even if they didn’t sustain superstar careers.

Lastly, no discussion of the most expensive ’85 cards would be complete without mentioning the true short-print “error” rookie of Dwight Gooden on the Topps tray card. Gooden, known as “Dr. K”, was coming off his historic Rookie of the Year season in 1984 where he won 24 games and struck out 268 batters for the Mets. By 1985, he was already a global celebrity and the face of baseball. Due to an mistake in production, only 10 of his rookie cards made it into the primary series, making it one of the true holy grails for collectors. Just 4 of the tray cards have ever graded PSA 10, selling for record prices north of $125,000 each. Even decent PSA 8 copies in the $10,000 range show just how rare and sought after this mistake card is.

The success and scarcity of cards like Trout, Puckett, Guerrero and the Gooden error proved 1985 as one of the most iconic vintages ever for high-end baseball cards. Stars were born that year like Trout who would become all-time greats, careers took off like Puckett, and short-prints created a legend in Gooden. Over 35 years later, these cards remain benchmark investments that can offer returns comparable to blue chip stocks. For collectors and investors alike, 1985 Topps and Traded cards represent the pinnacle of the hobby.

1990 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS HIGHEST VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1990 Donruss baseball card set is regarded as one of the greatest and most valuable issues from the iconic brand during the junk wax era. While most commons from sets of the late 1980s and early 1990s are essentially worthless today, some key rookies and star players from the 762-card 1990 Donruss set still hold significant collector value more than 30 years later. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the highest valued 1990 Donruss cards that vintage baseball card collectors still covet.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie (Card #1) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the entire 1990 Donruss set, the Griffey Jr. rookie card is arguably the most iconic and valuable card from the junk wax era. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s prestigious rookie currently fetches anywhere from $500-2000 graded, with raw copies selling in the $200-400 range. Even in well-worn condition, this card still carries collector value. At the peak of card collecting hype in the late 80s/early 90s, Griffey took the baseball world by storm with his breathtaking athleticism in the outfield and home run power as a young star for the Seattle Mariners. His card price only continues to rise over time as one of the greatest players of all-time.

Frank Thomas Rookie (Card #126) – As arguably the best all-around hitter of the 1990s, “The Big Hurt’s” rookie card is next in value behind only Griffey’s in the ’90 Donruss set. Thomas burst onto the MLB scene in 1990 during his first full season with the Chicago White Sox and went on to win back-to-back AL MVP awards in 1993-1994. In mint condition, his Donruss rookie grades PSA 10 and sells for $500-700. Even in lesser top-graded condition (PSA 8-9), this card still commands $100-300 on the secondary market. Like Griffey, Frank Thomas’ talent and resume ensures ongoing appreciation of one of the sport’s all-time great power hitters.

George Brett Last Baseball Card (Card #289) – For collectors, George Brett’s 1990 Donruss card holds additional nostalgic significance as it was his final officially licensed baseball card before retirement. Brett represented the gold standard of consistency and excellence over two decades with the Kansas City Royals from 1973-1993, winning the AL batting title 8 times and being inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999. The Brett card is one the scarcest in the entire set, making PSA 10 examples even more valuable at $400-600 for such a clean, sharp card capturing his graceful swing in his final MLB season.

Nolan Ryan Express Postcard (Card #491) – One of the true rarities in the 1990 Donruss set is Nolan Ryan’s “Express Postcard” parallel card featuring a unique postcard back design. Only 210 were produced, making it extremely tough to track down in choice condition. Even in lower graded copies, this Ryan postcard commands $300-400 prices on the secondary market. The legendary fireballer was still actively dominating hitters in the early 90s before retiring in 1993 at age 46 with a record 7 no-hitters to his name. Collectors love the novelty and scarcity of his postcard version from his age-43 season pitching for the Texas Rangers.

Cal Ripken Jr. All-Star (Card #619) – The back-to-back AL MVP and All-Star slugging shortstop captured on his 1990 All-Star card. Though not a true rookie issue, Ripken was still establishing himself as a superstar and ironman at the beginning of his epic consecutive games played streak. Near mint PSA 8-9 copies sell in the $50-75 range, with pristine PSA 10 specimens reaching $100-150. For Orioles fans and Cal Ripken collectors, this distinctive All-Star variation remains one of the top contemporary cards from his Hall of Fame career.

Ryne Sandberg / Ozzie Smith Dual Autograph (Card #673) – Perhaps the true “holy grail” find from the 1990 Donruss set would be the extremely rare dual autographed card pairing Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg and Cardinals defensive wizard Ozzie Smith. Only a tiny handful are believed to even exist in collectors’ hands today since autographs were not a standard insert at the time. A true condition census PSA 10 gem could fetch north of $1000 for such a one-of-a-kind signed relic pairing two 1980s icons who were elected to Cooperstown. Even lower graded dual auto examples start at $500+ due to the raw scarcity.

While 1990 Donruss is known as one of the all-time “junk wax” producers from the era, there still exists demand for high-grade rookie cards, autographed parallels and star players who cemented their Hall of Fame legacies during that time. Led by the incredible ascension of Ken Griffey Jr. as a true card collecting phenomenon, 1990 Donruss endures as one of the most beloved and collectible issues over 30 years later for vintage baseball card aficionados. With appreciation of stars like Frank Thomas, George Brett, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr. and more continuing to grow, these highest valued 1990 Donruss cards represent iconic pieces of card history from the late 1980s/early 90s peak period.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS 1970s

Leave a reply

The 1970s were a pivotal decade for the growth of baseball card collecting. As interest in the hobby boomed during this time period, several iconic rookie cards and rare variations emerged that have achieved legendary status among collectors. While thousands of baseball cards were printed in the 1970s, only a select few have attained value in the millions of dollars due to their scarcity and importance in documenting some of the game’s all-time great players.

At the top of the list from the 1970s is the iconic Mike Schmidt rookie card from 1975. As the first true superstar of the Philadelphia Phillies’ franchise, Schmidt went on to have a Hall of Fame career as one of the greatest third basemen in baseball history. His 1975 Topps rookie card, featuring him in a Phillies uniform during his debut season, is the undisputed crown jewel of 1970s cardboard. In pristine mint condition, examples of Schmidt’s rookie have sold for over $2.5 million, making it not only the most valuable card from the ’70s but one of the highest valued in the entire hobby.

Another ultra-rare 1970s rookie that has achieved unbelievable prices is the Nolan Ryan Express USA commemorative card from 1973. Issued as an incentive to sell magazine subscriptions, the Ryan Express USA features a rookie-era portrait of “The Ryan Express” in his California Angels uniform along with a train-themed graphic recognizing his blazing fastball. Only 415 copies were ever produced, meaning finding one in gem mint condition today is nearly impossible. One received a record-setting bid of $1.2 million in a 2013 auction, standing as another crucial piece of baseball memorabilia from the decade.

Staying with the theme of legendary pitchers, the Orel Hershiser rookie card from 1983 also ranks among the most expensive 1970s issues. Despite being printed a few years after most of the other top cards from the decade, Hershiser’s iconic 1983 Fleer rookie remains wildly scarce and desirable for collectors due to his amazing accomplishments soon after. In 1988, Hershiser set the MLB record for most consecutive scoreless innings in a season and won both the Cy Young Award and World Series MVP honors for the Dodgers. Grading a pristine gem mint 10, one example of his scarce 1983 rookie sold for $561,000 at auction.

A true “holy grail” of 1970s cardboard is the Hank Aaron 1956 Topps rookie card. As one of the game’s all-time home run kings who passed Babe Ruth on the career list, collecting any Aaron rookie is a lifelong dream of many. Sadly, the 1956 Topps set containing Aaron’s first major issued card was short-printed, leaving only an estimated 50-100 surviving copies in high-grade today. A PSA 8 copy sold in October 2016 for $369,000, highlighting Aaron’s status as a collectible icon from his first decade in the league. His earlier Bowman and Topps cards carrying his Milwaukee Braves photos would demand millions in mint condition as well.

If the Aaron rookie is in unattainable territory, another iconic Braves slugger provides a more realistic chase for some collectors – the Dale Murphy rookie card from 1977. Representing Murphy’s breakout rookie campaign with the Braves, the 1977 Topps card became highly sought after as “Murph” went on to win back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1982-83. Numbered to a short-print run even for its time, BGS-graded 9 copies have sold for upwards of $25,000 in recent auction results. Still housed in the original wax packaging and sporting paper-fresh surfaces, examples could conceivably bring six-figure bids.

Moving from players to sets, the 1972 Topps set as a whole is recognized as one of the true gems of the decade and period. Featuring the debut of several all-time pitching talents like Tom Seaver, Steve Carlton, and Nolan Ryan, the ’72s came armed with colorful design, sharp photography, and a true who’s who of baseball at the time. In the midst of the peak of the modern baseball card boom, a complete factory set graded Mint by SGC recently sold for nearly $100,000. Key rookie cards within like Seaver, Carlton, and Ryan can reach $10,000 each in high-end condition.

Beginning what would become a legendary run with the Big Red Machine, the Joe Morgan rookie card from 1968 is another defining piece from the late ’60s/early ’70s period. As the first iteration of “Little Poison” in a Reds uniform, high-grade versions continue to deliver six-figure price tags. One PSA 8 copy hit a staggering $221,230 at auction in 2017. By winning back-to-back NL MVPs in 1975-76 and playing a huge role in Cincinnati’s World Series titles, Morgan cemented his place as a true icon of the decade in baseball annals.

While thousands of affordable collectibles were produced during the 1970s boom, it’s the elite rookie cards, short prints, and true one-of-a-kind items that will forever stand as some of the most prized possessions in the modern collecting realm. Whether it’s the Holy Grails of Mike Schmidt, Nolan Ryan, Hank Aaron or seminal 1970s issues like the 1972 Topps set, these legendary pieces of cardboard continue to define value, scarcity, and the allure of the vintage hobby.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 80s

Leave a reply

The 1980s was a transformative decade for the baseball card industry. Following a boom in popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s, sports card publishing greatly expanded. Major card companies like Topps, Donruss, and Fleer released larger base sets and fancier trading cards inserted in packs. This led to an oversaturation in the market and a crash in the late 1980s. It also meant that some truly iconic rookie cards from all-time baseball greats were printed during this era. While the junk wax era diminished card values at the time, certain rare and sought-after 1980s issues have exploded in value in recent years as collectors seek out pieces of baseball history. Here are some of the most valuable baseball cards from the 1980s based on PSA 10 gem mint condition grades:

1985 Fleer Michael Jordan (NBA) – The rarest and most iconic basketball card ever printed, Michael Jordan’s rookie card from Fleer’s inaugural NBA set holds immense cultural cachet. High grade PSA 10 examples have routinely sold for over $100,000 in recent years, making it the most valuable trading card from any decade. While not technically a baseball card, Jordan’s popularity and the card’s rarity and condition place it at the top of 1980s sports collectibles.

1987 Topps Tiffany Nolan Ryan (UPDATE) – One of the True Gems variants of Nolan Ryan’s signature 1987 Topps card, printed on Tiffany cardboard stock and limited to just 24 copies. In a PSA 10 condition this card has sold for over $50,000 at auction amid intense bidding wars between Ryan super-collectors. It represents the pinnacle achievement for any Ryan or 1987 Topps collector.

1988 Score Ken Griffey Jr. – Arguably the most visually stunning and iconic baseball rookie card design ever printed. Griffey’s sweet swing, youthful smile, and uniform aesthetic make this one of the most desirable issues for any player collector. High grade examples have reached over $35,000 at auction as Griffey nears likely Hall of Fame enshrinement.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. – While slightly less coveted than the 1988 Score, Upper Deck’s 1989 rookie of Griffey is still one of the more valuable modern baseball cards due to the company’s excellent print quality and their exclusive deal with Major League Baseball in 1989. Upper Deck took the hobby to new heights and a PSA 10 of this card could earn $20,000 or more.

1990 Upper Deck Nolan Ryan – Upper Deck did it again with their second flagship set in 1990, which featured a superb action shot of Ryan at mid-windup. It’s easily one of the most scenic and detailed baseball card photographs of all-time. An investment-grade PSA 10 copy of this iconic card recently sold for $17,500.

1986 Fleer Update Mike Schmidt – Schmidt’s final rookie card came in 1986 Fleer Update, one of his strongest visual presentations. He’s captured taking a big swing with intense concentration. Only 183 PSA 10s have been graded, making this one of the greatest rarities in the 3rd year player subset. It could receive over $15,000 at auction.

1989 Stadium Club Ken Griffey Jr. – Stadium Club’s premier brand launched in style in 1989. Their design aesthetic gave Griffey a modern, clean look that remains striking today. While not quite as acclaimed as his Score and Upper Deck rookies, a PSA 10 example could still draw $13,000 from an avid Griffey collector.

1987 Topps Traded Mark McGwire – McGwire’s explosive rookie season with the A’s made him a star. This semi-rare traded card variation offered collectors an alternate photo and a rookie cup badge on the uniform. Only 134 PSA 10s exist, which helps justify a valued around $12,000 for top condition.

1986 Topps Eric Davis – Davis emerged as one of baseball’s brightest young players in 1986. His gorgeous action shot is one of the most underrated designs from the entire junk wax era. Fewer than 200 PSA 10s remain, preserving this dynamite card’s significance and demand around $10,500.

1989 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. (Galaxy) – Bowman had a Galaxy subset within their 1989 set that featured spacey parallel images. Griffey’s rendition offered collectors something extra special. Scarcity has made Near Mint PSA 9 examples sell for around $10,000 from fervent collectors.

While the immense print runs from the 1980s minimized card values at the time, advanced grading has proven there are still investment-worthy gems even within the “junk wax era.” The combination of all-time player subjects, rare parallel printings, memorable photography and strong condition have allowed certain 1980s issues to reach five and even six-figure valuations. For serious vintage collectors, locating and holding PSA 10 examples of the above mentioned cards provides participation in some of the highest ends of the historical sports collecting market.

HIGHEST PRICED 1990 BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The year 1990 saw immense growth and popularity for the baseball card collecting hobby. While the late 1980s saw the peak of the speculative baseball card boom, collectors remained zealous in their pursuit of the rarest and most valuable issues from the new releases. Several factors contributed to high demand and investment potential for 1990s vintage cards, including the continued success and star power of holdovers from the ’80s like Don Mattingly and Wade Boggs, as well as rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas and Gregg Maddux.

As was typical of the era, the highest prices in 1990 baseball cards were commanded by the most scarce and coveted rookie issues. While there were certainly gems to be found across all cardboard brands, it was the premier rookie cards from Topps, Donruss, and Fleer that captured the attention of investors. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest and most sought-after 1990 rookie cards on the secondary market today.

Frank Thomas (Topps) – Widely considered one of the premiere rookie card issues of the modern era, the Frank Thomas Topps card #166 is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the 1990 season. With his massive physique and prodigious power, “The Big Hurt” established himself as one of baseball’s best right out of the gate by claiming the American League’s Rookie of the Year and MVP awards in 1990. The scarcity and immediate impact of Thomas’ rookie made it an instant collector favorite. High quality PSA/BGS graded copies now command prices upwards of $5,000, with true gem mint 10s bringing over $15,000 at auction when they surface.

Gregg Maddux (Donruss) – Maddux burst onto the scene in 1986 and announced his arrival as one of the game’s premier pitchers and future Hall of Famer. His 1990 Donruss rookie card #99 is one of the most iconic in the entire baseball collectibles landscape. The extreme rarity and pedigree of Maddux’s high-numbered Donruss issue drive values over $2,000 for a PSA 10 grade specimen. Even lower quality, graded copies are six figure cards in today’s market due to their scarcity and representative status as one of the best pitcher’s debut issues.

Sandy Alomar Jr. (Leaf) – One of the true unheralded stars of the 1990 season was Cleveland Indians catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. Playing a pivotal role on a young squad that reached the ALCS, Alomar established himself as an elite defensive backstop and clutch hitter. His rookie card from short-printed Leaf brand, which was only available in wax packs at regional grocery and convenience stores, is the defining rare issue from the year. PSA 10s have been known to sell for well over $15,000 given how few high-quality examples remain in circulation after 30 years.

Ken Griffey Jr. (Upper Deck) – While 1990 Topps Griffey cards are plentiful and affordable relative to the above, one of the better long term investments from the year has proven to be the Upper Deck #1 rookie which captured the magic of “The Kid” in his debut season with the Seattle Mariners. Upper Deck cards were a new frontier in the sports card business in 1989-90 and limited print runs resulted in scarcity that has driven Griffey UD values higher over time. Top PSA 10 grades fetch over $10,000 today, reflecting Griffey’s legendary career and status as one of the most charismatic players from the 1990s.

Jeff Bagwell (Fleer) – The 1990 Fleer Update issue rookie card #US260 of Jeff Bagwell was another true gem that highlighted the emergence of a future MVP. Bagwell turned in an impressive debut year for the Houston Astros and became a cornerstone player for their return to relevance in the 1990s. Like Maddux above, the high card number of the Bagwell Fleer caused its scarcity and collector interest over decades. Top condition PSA 10s bring six figure sums today considering how few survived to grade perfection after 30 years of wear.

Tom Glavine (Score) – While the Score brand lacks the name recognition of the “Big 3” 1990 manufacturers, their Tom Glavine rookie is a true hidden gem worthy of top dollar. The future Hall of Famer and two-time Cy Young winner debuted with Atlanta amid low expectations in ’87 but broke through with an All-Star season in 1990. The Score issue highlights Glavine at his athletic best and commands over $1500 for a PSA/BGS 10 despite the relatively higher print runs of Score cards compared to brands like Fleer and Donruss.

Cal Ripken Jr. (Score Traded) – For pure collectibility, the rarest Cal Ripken card from the magical “Iron Man” 1991 season where he broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record actually comes from 1990 Score Traded. Beyond its super scarce production run only available in factory sets, the Ripken in vivid powder blue Orioles uniform has become the ultimate condition-sensitive trophy card, as true gem mint examples rarely come to market. A PSA 10 is valued well over $20,000 given its one-of-a-kind rarity and subject matter.

This covers some of the most elite investments from the bountiful 1990 baseball card season. Fueled by spectacular rookie classes and growing collector demand, prices on the rarest certified specimens continue to climb steadily after 3 decades. While the speculative boom of the late ‘80s receded, ‘90s cards proved to hold intrinsic value as representations of baseball’s golden era sealed in plastic for the ages.

HIGHEST VALUE BASEBALL CARDS 1990

Leave a reply

The 1990 baseball card set is one of the most iconic releases from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Within the set are some of the most valuable modern-era rookie cards and veteran star cards that continue to gain value as the years pass. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the highest value baseball cards from the acclaimed 1990 Topps, Donruss, Stadium Club, and Fleer sets.

Perhaps the highest valued card from the 1990 releases is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card from Upper Deck. Griffey was already dazzling MLB crowds with his breathtaking athleticism and five-tool skills in his first major league season in 1989. Card collectors recognized his potential superstardom and the Griffey UD rookie has grown to become one of the most desirable cards on the hobby. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples in top condition regularly sell for over $10,000 and sometimes approach $15,000 or more at auction depending on the market. Even well-centered PSA 9 copies can still fetch $3,000+.

Another exceedingly valuable rookie card from 1990 is Frank Thomas’ flagship Topps issue. “The Big Hurt” smashed 31 home runs as a rookie en route to a steady Hall of Fame career spent mostly with the Chicago White Sox. Thomas Topps rookies in pristine condition have broken the $1000 mark. PSA 10 specimens are valued well into the four-figure range, while high-grade PSA 9s still sell for $500-800 depending on factors like centering and eye appeal.

Chipper Jones, whose historic MLB career was spent entirely with the Atlanta Braves, has one of the best and most visually striking rookie cards available from 1990. Topps highlighted Jones’ rookie season with a stunning vertical front image that aptly displayed his tremendous defensive skills. High-grade Chipper Jones Topps rookies consistently sell for $400-600 PSA 9 or higher. Gem Mint PSA 10 examples have reached impressive auction prices around $1000-1500 over the past couple years.

Roberto Alomar’s rookie card from 1990 Donruss is another spectacular issue that continues to gain prestige as one of the set’s premium cards. Alomar established himself as an elite defensive second baseman while also providing consistent offensive production over his Hall of Fame career. Pristine PSA 10 Alomar rookies sell for approximately $800-1000, with high-grade PSA 9s selling closer to the $400-600 range depending on centering characteristics.

Other noteworthy rookie cards with strong values from 1990 include Gregg Jefferies’ Fleer issue, which can reach $250-350 graded PSA 9 or better. Kirby Puckett’s Donruss rookie, highlighting his breakout 1989 season, has also gained substantial worth in top condition – PSA 10s selling for around $500-750 range. Darren Daulton’s stellar rookie campaign resulted in a valuable Fleer card as well, with PSA 9s carrying an estimated value of $150-250.

While rookie cards tend to garner the most attention, several Hall of Fame veterans from 1990 also possess immense financial worth preserved in high-quality condition. Perhaps the most noteworthy of these is Nolan Ryan’s spectacular Topps Traded issue from that year, showcasing his historic 300th career victory. Graded PSA/DNA 10 Gem Mint exemplars routinely sell at auction for $1000-1500, highlighting Ryan’s enduring popularity and status as one of the game’s true immortals.

Another Hall of Famer with an incredibly valuable 1990 card is Rickey Henderson. His impressive Donruss Triple Crown parallel (#T90) highlights his dominant MVP season of 1990 when he swiped 66 bases and led the AL in runs scored. Pristine PSA 10 copies regularly surpass $1000 at auction due to their rarity, iconography, and connection to one of baseball’s greatest leadoff hitters. Even graded PSA 9s still carry estimated values above $500.

Rounding out some of the top veteran standouts with worthwhile 1990 issues are Nolan Ryan’s standard Topps Traded (#T100) card celebrating his 300th win. High-grade PSA 9 or 10 examples sell in the $400-600 range. Kirby Puckett’s 1990 Stadium Club Gold Foil parallel (#22) highlighting his 1989 ALCS heroics continues to fetch $300-500 PSA 9 or better. And finally, Ken Griffey Sr.’s scarce 1990 Upper Deck Black Gold parallel (#7) recognizing his long, productive career can reach $250-350 in top condition.

The 1990 baseball card season produced several of the most iconic and valuable modern issues due to spectacular rookie debuts and career milestones for future Hall of Famers. Strong vintage investment pieces like the Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Chipper Jones rookies as well as high-ends for stars like Ryan, Henderson and Puckett continue to gain worth as the years go by. For discerning collectors, the 1990 set remains a cornerstone of the modern collecting era.

HIGHEST PRICED BASEBALL CARDS 2023

Leave a reply

The hobby of collecting baseball cards has been popular for over 150 years and is a multi-billion dollar industry. As with any collectible, the rarest and most coveted cards command the highest prices on the market. While prices constantly fluctuate based on supply and demand, here are some of the baseball cards that have consistently sold for record prices throughout 2023 so far.

The highest priced baseball card of all time is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, considered the rarest and most iconic card in the hobby. Only around 60 authentic T206 Wagners are known to exist today in various grades of condition. In January 2023, gold-standard grading company PSA sold one of these rare cards in a PSA-graded MINT 9 condition for an astounding $6.6 million through auction house Sotheby’s. While the Wagner will likely never be topped, it sets the gold standard for what truly rarefind high-grade vintage cards can sell for.

The second highest baseball card price achieved in 2023, and the all-time record for a modern card, was the sale of a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA GEM MINT 10 in February for $12.6 million also through Sotheby’s. The Mantle is incredibly scarce in the pristine GEM MT 10 grade and considered the finest quality example in existence. With its iconic subject, the 1952 Topps design is also regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing in hobby history making high-grade examples like this extremely desirable for serious collectors.

Showing it can compete with vintage rarities, a rare 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Autographs Blue Refractor 1/1 of superstar Mike Trout sold in June 2023 for $3.93 million through Goldin Auctions. As a one-of-a-kind autographed rookie card issued before Trout’s huge success, it is arguably the most valuable Mike Trout card available. Trout has proven himself as perhaps the greatest player of this generation, and holdings of his early cards stand to gain even more value as his career and accomplishments continue to cement his legend status.

The most expensive modern card of 2023 prior to the Trout was a case hit 1/1 autograph red refractory of Los Angeles Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani from 2021 Bowman’s Best. It achieved $3.36 million in July through Goldin, showing Ohtani mania has fully taken hold with collectors. As a two-way phenom not seen since the deadball era, Ohtani collectors are willing to pay top dollar for his rarest rookie cards issued before he won the AL MVP award in 2021. With continued success, the price for 1/1 Ohtani’s is sure to keep rising rapidly.

For vintage cards, a 1919 Eddie Plank Batter-Up Tobacco Card in a PSA EX-MT 4 condition reached $2.88 million in May through SCP Auctions. The Plank is one of the most visually striking and iconic tobacco era cards, with only a small number believed to remain in existence across all grades. Condition above a 5 is exceedingly rare to encounter after over 100 years of surviving the elements, so high grade examples like this are prized among advanced collectors.

In September, Goldin sold an ultra-rare 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth tobacco card reputed as the earliest known Major League issued Ruth card for an astounding $2.46 million. Not much is known about the 1914 Baltimore News set and fewer than 10 are thought to exist in any condition. With the card having an imprint of “Ruth” at the bottom, it is believed the future Sultan of Swat was still playing minor league ball in Baltimore when this image was taken. As one of the first appearances of a true sports icon like Babe Ruth, it set records for the earliest issued Ruth card.

Further showing demand for vintage stars, a 1909-11 T206 Sherry Magee PSA EX-MT 5 sold in August through SCP Auctions for $2.1 million. Magee was a premier slugger of the deadball era and star on some great Philadelphia Phillies clubs. With a population under 20 high grade examples known, his T206 is a supreme rarity that gained additional value by being offered fresh to the market in an intact high grade state without restoration. It represented a huge price for a non-Wagner T206.

Rounding out the top ten is a 1957 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA GEM-MT 10 that achieved $2.04 million in a November Goldin sale. Beyond its superior state of preservation, the ’57 design is considered one of Mantle’s most aesthetically appealing and iconic cards issued during his playing days. With demand sky high for rare perfect condition examples of The Mick’s classic cards, this realized an impressive sum.

While the ultra-rare Honus Wagner will likely hold the all-time record indefinitely, the prices seen for other vintage and modern rookie cards in 2023 prove the market remains incredibly robust. Cards featuring legendary players like Mantle, Ruth, Trout and Ohtani will consistently set new records as long as just a few pristine examples remain in the strict highest grades. For dedicated collectors, buying fresh to the population cards of today’s stars in top condition will be seen as sound investments that stand to gain great value as those athletes’ careers progress. Condition is king, and the rarest 1/1s will always demand million dollar bids – showing the continued strength of the baseball card collecting hobby.

HIGHEST PRICED 1993 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1993 Topps baseball card set marked the start of a new era in the modern trading card industry. While 1983 Topps rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Kirby Puckett and Dwight Gooden remain highly coveted, 1993 introduced collectors to a new generation of players who would go on to achieve baseball immortality. Not surprisingly, some of the priciest cards from the ’93 Topps set feature rookies and prospects who vastly exceeded expectations. Three decades later, these rare and valuable specimens continue to attract serious hobbyists and investors.

Leading the way is the crown jewel of any ’93 Topps collection – the ultra-short printed Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the most iconic baseball cards ever made, Griffey’s debut is the undisputed king of the set. Only 110 copies are known to exist in mint condition, making it exceedingly difficult to find in high grades. As “The Kid” went on to slam 630 career home runs and capture numerous awards and accolades, demand and prices for his rookie skyrocketed. In Gem Mint (GM) 10 condition, Griffey’s Topps rookie has sold for as much as $347,500, while PSA 9 copies still command five figures.

Even more than Griffey, the ’93 Topps Chipper Jones rookie card signifies the start of an impressive career that is still unfolding. A future Hall of Famer still active at age 48, Jones continues adding to his impressive resume as the longtime Atlanta Braves third baseman and perennial All-Star. Like Griffey, only a small number of Chipper’s first card were printed and fewer still grade perfectly. As one of the truest “one-card” Hall of Fame rookie careers, PSA 10 Jones rookies bring upwards of $175,000 at auction. Even heavily played copies still sell for thousands.

While not rookies, the ’93 Derek Jeter and Darryl Strawberry cards are modern short prints that also enjoy immense demand. Both were established stars by 1993, but their respective storylines make each highly valuable. As a beloved hometown hero for the New York Yankees, interest in Jeter remained strong throughout his career. His ’93 Short Print is one of just 19 copies certified PSA 10, selling for over $40,000. Meanwhile, Strawberry’s struggles with substance abuse are well documented – at the time of his ’93 issue, it was uncertain if he’d overcome personal demons to continue playing. The short printed version alludes to that uncertainty and is a hot commodity for Strawberry collectors, selling in the $8,000-$10,000 range.

Perhaps the most fundamentally “valuable” card from the 1993 Topps set belongs to none other than Mr. October himself – Reggie Jackson. As one of the true “balls of flame” from the legendary ’93 design, Jackson’s high-number issue is a huge fan favorite. Not in the basic set, it was only inserted late in production, making pristine copies scarce. In a PSA 10 gem, the fiery Jackson ball recently sold for $37,500, proving its staying power as a true icon of the era. Other elite power hitters like Hall of Famers Barry Bonds ($4,000 PSA 10), Frank Thomas ($3,000 PSA 10), and Mark McGwire ($3,000 PSA 10) also demand top dollar from ’93 Topps collectors.

While not eclipsing the star power of rookie cards, key short prints from the 1993 Topps set hold significant collector value as well. The Derek Bell short print ranks high on want lists, with PSA 10’s reaching $8,000 at auction. Fellow outfielders Marquis Grissom and Moises Alou also have coveted short printed variants worth $3,500-$5,000 in top condition. Hall of Fame bound third baseman Craig Biggio has an ultra-short printed “Starpower” parallel that recently sold for $4,500 in PSA 10. Even bench players like Dave Magadan and Mark Grace command $1,000-$2,000 in pristine condition due to their limited print runs.

Beyond on-card performances, autographs and memorabilia cards from 1993 Topps hold substantial secondary market value. An autographed Chipper Jones rookie has reached over $20,000. Signed Derek Jeter rookies sell anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the quality of the autograph. Swatches and patches featuring star players are also enormously popular. A 1993 Topps Finest Refractor #144 Ken Griffey Jr. jersey card sold for $41,250. Other coveted “hits” include a Chipper Jones Prime Cuts Jersey card (#90) that fetched $7,875 and a Frank Thomas Prime Cuts Jersey card (#109) that sold for $3,000.

As one of the true modern classics in the world of sports cards, 1993 Topps endures as a set where some cards gained exponentially in value alongside iconic careers. Three decades later, specimens featuring Hall of Fame talents like Griffey, Jones, Jeter, and Jackson continue shattering records when they cross the auction block. While not all mid-90s issue cards have aged so well, the true gems from ’93 Topps represent some of the most elite and valuable cardboard collectibles money can buy. In an ever-changing market, the crown jewels from this pivotal set will assuredly retain their luster for decades to come.

HIGHEST VALUE 1990 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1990 Topps baseball card set is highly sought after by collectors due to several key rookie cards and Hall of Fame players featured. While not the most valuable set of all time, there are certainly some true gems that continue to increase in value decades after they were first printed. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1990 Topps cards that fetch the highest prices on the secondary market.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Ken Griffey Jr. was one of the most exciting young prospects in baseball when he debuted with the Seattle Mariners in 1989. Not surprisingly, his rookie card from the 1990 Topps set is arguably the most coveted card from that year. PSA 10 Gem Mint versions regularly sell for well over $1,000. Even lower graded copies in PSA 8 or BGS 9 condition can fetch $300-500. Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie remains the crown jewel of the 1990 set.

Frank Thomas – Like Griffey, Frank Thomas burst onto the scene in 1990 and had an MVP-caliber rookie season with the Chicago White Sox. His dominant play established him as the premier power hitter of the 1990s. Thomas’ rookies have appreciated greatly over time. A PSA 10 can bring upwards of $800-1000 while an 8Grade is $150-250. His star power and prolific stats continue to buoy values for this highly popular card.

Roberto Alomar – Arguably the finest all-around second baseman of his era, Roberto Alomar made his Topps debut in 1990 with the San Diego Padres. Alomar won a Gold Glove every year of his career and slugged over .400 multiple times, showing impressive five-tool talents. Graded versions have climbed near the $400-600 range for PSA 9-10s. The smoothness and balance Alomar displayed in his swing translated to cards as well as at-bats.

Gary Sheffield – A multi-time All-Star and one of the game’s premier power hitters, Gary Sheffield broke in as a Milwaukee Brewer in the 1990 season. His Topps RC takes on added significance as it also featured his only baseball card made as a Brewer before quickly becoming an established star with other franchises. Even in lower grades of PSA 7 or BGS 8, Sheffield rookie dollars approach $200 due to his stellar career stats and place among the sport’s all-time sluggers.

Bret Saberhagen – Winning back-to-back Cy Young Awards with the Kansas City Royals established Bret Saberhagen as arguably the top pitcher in baseball during the late 80s. His 1990 Topps update card, sporting his Royals uniforms, reflect the peak of his abilities before injuries limited his later career. Higher grades still steadily sell north of $200 even today given his Cy Young accomplishments with KC. Saberhagen was among the elite hurlers who forged the industry of collecting pitchers’ cards.

Tom Glavine – Though not destined to stardom like Griffey or Thomas, Tom Glavine established himself as a future Hall of Famer beginning with his rookie season split between the Atlanta Braves and AAA Richmond in 1987. Graded examples of his scarce 1990 Topps rookie card can fetch $150-300 dependent on condition. Glavine went on to compile over 300 wins and 2 Cy Young trophies of his own to validate early collectors’ faith in his cardboard value.

Randy Johnson – “The Big Unit” made his baseball card debut in 1990 after 3 years of minor league refining in the Expos system. Considered one of the most overpowering pitchers ever due to his blazing fastball, Johnson rookie cards have steadily appreciated in the $75-150 range for quality samples. His Topps rookie serves as the earliest tangible connection to a career that culminated with over 4,000 strikeouts and 5 Cy Youngs spread across 4 different franchises.

Mark McGwire – In the infancy of his powerful career, Mark McGwire blasted 49 homers for the Oakland Athletics in 1987 and followed with 32 more in 1990. While not his true rookie issue, McGwire fans seek out his early Topps updates. Pricing has remained affordable, between $50-125 for graded copies. McGwire’s record-setting power displays and later admission to PED use created complexity for his memorabilia market, but 1990 remains an attainable link to one of baseball’s preeminent sluggers.

Candy Maldonado – An unlikely star, Candy Maldonado was an unknown prospect in the Minnesota Twins system before hitting .333 in 62 games of his rookie season. His near-complete absence of any other career stats make his 1990 Topps RC incredibly scarce and highly coveted byCompletionists needing this one-year wonder. Even poorly graded Maldonado’s crack five figures when they surface. He epitomizes the element of surprise that enlivened the early days of collecting.

While the 1990 Topps set lacks true Superstar rookies on the level of Griffey or Bonds’ debuts, these elite cards show the sustained demand for early issues of future Hall of Famers, Cy Young winners and even short-lived statistical oddities. Condition remains key, but the combination of compelling rookie talent, career achievement and nostalgia ensure prices will remain hearty for top examples from this beloved vintage release. The quest for cardboard keepsakes from the greatest players of the 1980s and 90s endures.

HIGHEST VALUE 1988 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1988 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. While it may lack the starpower and historical significance of sets from the 1950s or the massive specs of modern releases, the ’88 Topps set holds tremendous nostalgia and features some true all-time greats that have stood the test of time. For collectors three decades later, certain rookie cards and star players from this 702-card set command prices well into the thousands.

Perhaps the most coveted and expensive 1988 Topps card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey burst onto the scene in 1988 and immediately emerged as a budding superstar for the Seattle Mariners. His vibrant smile, effortless power, and Gold Glove defense made him a fan favorite. The Griffey rookie is the crown jewel of the 1988 set and in pristine mint condition can fetch over $10,000. Even well-centered, near mint copies trade hands for $3,000-5,000 depending on the day. The card marked the arrival of one of baseball’s true elite and remains a must-have for vintage collectors.

Another incredibly valuable rookie from the ’88 issue is the Tim Salmon card. While not having the universal recognition or Hall of Fame career of Griffey, Salmon had a fine 16-year run with the California/Anaheim Angels and was an All-Star and Silver Slugger winner. His rookie card came during a time when the hobby was taking off but information wasn’t as readily available online. As a result, the Salmon rookie moved around quietly for years and many were lost or stuffed in shoeboxes. High-grade versions now sell in the $800-1200 range and have even touched $2,000 for true gems. It’s an obscure but highly sought rookie from the set’s unheralded players.

Staying in California, the Nolan Ryan card is easily a top-3 most valuable from the 1988 lineup. As one of the most iconic and intimidating pitchers in MLB history, Ryan’s expressive stare down on his Topps issue holds powerful nostalgia. At the time, he was winding down his legendary career but had just come off a 16-strikeout performance for the Astros in 1987. Pristine Ryan rookies from his 1967 season are true holy grails, but even his later vintage picturesQUE cards pull big numbers. A BGS/PSA 9 1988 Topps Ryan can get close to $1,000 while a flawless 10 could cost an collector over $3,000.

No discussion of valuable 1988 Topps cards is complete without mentioning the Barry Bonds rookie. Arguably the greatest pure hitter of all time, Bonds was just emerging as an up-and-coming star for the Pittsburgh Pirates at this time. At the plate even in his early years, “Barry” was a force with incredible hand-eye coordination and sneaky power. His rookie is exponentially more coveted now given his all-time home run records and Hall of Fame numbers. In Gem Mint 10 condition graded, the Bonds rookie often exceeds $2,000-3,000 depending on bidding wars. Near-Mint 9s still approach $1,000 range. An absolute must-own for vintage collections chasing the best players.

While stars above grabbed the attention, certain other 1988 Topps cards appreciate steadily as well. The Orel Hershiser card stands out for featuring the Dodgers’ fireballer shortly after his record 59 consecutive scoreless innings during the 1988 season. Hershiser would win the Cy Young and World Series MVP that year. Good PSA/BGS 9 copies push $150-250 range depending on market activity. Similarly, the Bo Jackson football/baseball hybrid star saw rising interest later in his short but explosive career. Near-Mint Jacksons trade between $125-175 territory consistently.

Rookies of future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and Frank Thomas also hold value in pristine condition. Glavine’s first Topps card earns over $100 in top grades while Maddux and Thomas around $75 each in 9s. Along with stars like Strawberry, Carter, and Gooden, they captured the decade transitioning into steroids era of the 1990s. Meanwhile, other one-year wonders retain cult followings. Steve Sax, Oddibe McDowell, and Dave Martinez rookies crack $50 in top-tier condition with dedicated collectors.

The 1988 Topps baseball set perfectly captured a vibrant time for the hobby and the game itself. Flashy photography, bold color schemes, and time-capsuled snapshots of emerging/existing stars created an iconic aesthetic that endures for baby boomer collectors today. While it lacks the starpower of the 1950s or speculation of modern issues, certain tremendous rookie cards, HOFers in their primes, and other cult classics retain incredible value. For savvy investors and vintage fans, the 1988 Topps issue can deliver phenomenal lifelong returns on favorites like Griffey, Bonds, and more.