Tag Archives: kmart

87 KMART BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

In 1987, Kmart partnered with Topps to produce a special baseball card set exclusively for Kmart stores. The 1987 Kmart baseball card set featured 87 cards featuring players, managers, and executives from MLB teams. The unique card set was only available through Kmart and generated significant interest among baseball card collectors at the time.

The 1987 Kmart baseball card set came about as a partnership between the major retail chain Kmart and Topps, the dominant manufacturer of sports cards in the late 20th century. Topps had been producing baseball cards annually since the early 1950s and had exclusive licenses with MLB, the MLB Players Association, and individual teams. In 1987, Topps worked with Kmart to design and produce a special 87 card set that could only be purchased from Kmart stores.

Each of the 26 MLB teams at the time were represented with 3 cards in the set, giving a total of 78 cards featuring current players. The other 9 cards featured managers, team executives, and baseball icons of the past. Some notable players included in the set were Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Kirby Puckett, and Jose Canseco during the peak of their careers. Managers featured included Whitey Herzog and Tommy Lasorda, while executives included George Steinbrenner of the Yankees. Legendary players honored in the set included Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb.

The cards featured standard size and design common for Topps sets of the era. On the front was a color photo of the featured person alongside their name, team, and position. The back of the card included career statistics and a short biography. No gum or other incentives were included with the Kmart exclusive cards, unlike traditional Topps packs. The cards carried the Topps and Kmart logos prominently to signify the partnership behind the product. Each card was encased in a thin plastic sleeve for protection.

The 1987 Kmart baseball cards were only available through Kmart retail stores and could not be found elsewhere. Kmart sold unopened wax packs containing 6 random cards for $1.99 per pack. This gave collectors an affordable way to build their sets while driving traffic to Kmart locations. Reports from the time indicate the cards sold briskly as many collectors sought to complete the unique 87 card roster. The limited retail availability and focus on current stars made the Kmart cards highly desirable additions to any baseball card collection.

While not quite as valuable today as flagship Topps sets due to the larger print run through Kmart, the 1987 Kmart baseball cards remain a highlight for collectors of 1980s cards and unique promotional issues. The cards captured a snapshot of MLB during a peak era for the sport and featured many all-time great players. For Kmart, the partnership with Topps helped bring customers into stores and boost sales of a popular licensed product. Both companies benefited and Topps would go on to produce special retail exclusive card sets with other major chains in future years.

For today’s collectors, a full 87 card set of 1987 Kmart baseball cards can still be found intact in the collectors’ market. Pricing will vary depending on the overall condition but sets are realistically obtainable compared to other vintage issues. Individually, higher value stars like Clemens, Boggs, and Puckett can command $5-10 per card in near mint condition. Lesser players are only $1-3. The managers and executives are often the most difficult to find. The 1987 Kmart baseball card set remains an interesting specialty subset that captured a unique moment between Kmart, Topps, and the players and personalities of 1980s MLB.

The 1987 Kmart baseball card set was a one-of-a-kind licensed product that showcased current MLB stars through an exclusive retail partnership between Kmart and Topps. Collectors at the time snatched up the affordable wax packs from Kmart seeking to complete the 87 card roster. While the print run was larger than traditional Topps flagship sets, the Kmart cards still hold value today for collectors of 1980s memorabilia and unique promotional issues. The partnership helped drive customers to Kmart and sales of the popular baseball cards. Both companies leveraged their brands to create a win-win promotional opportunity capturing the MLB zeitgeist of that era.

1982 KMART BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

Leave a reply

The 1982 season saw another year of exciting Major League Baseball action. Players like Dave Winfield, Fernando Valenzuela, and Cal Ripken Jr. were making their mark on the national pastime. For baseball card collectors, 1982 was an intriguing year as well thanks to an alternative option to the Topps flagship set – baseball cards sold through retail giant Kmart.

Kmart had dabbled in distributing their own baseball cards in years past, but the 1982 series was among the most significant and collectible non-Topps issues of the 1970s-80s era. The set featured cards for all 26 MLB teams at the time as well as rookie cards and returning favorites. While production numbers were much lower than the mainstream Topps release, Kmart cards have developed a strong cult following among vintage collectors in the decades since.

As with any collectible, the prices 1982 Kmart baseball cards command varies greatly depending on player, condition, and market demand. To help collectors and investors value their collections, here is an in-depth price guide for the landmark 1982 Kmart card set based on results from auction sites like eBay as well as industry sources:

Common Cards: Most common base cards in well-worn poor condition can be found for under $1. Near mint/mint exemplars typically sell in the $2-5 range. Notable stars may fetch $5-10 depending on the player and demand.

Rookies: Rookie cards are always highly sought after and the 1982 Kmart set featured several future Hall of Famers in their first MLB card appearances. Fernando Valenzuela’s rookie commands $25-50 in average condition but can exceed $100 mint. Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie in the same condition sells around $15-30, while Tony Gwynn’s debut card brings $10-20. Other top rookies like George Brett and Ozzie Smith range from $5-15 on average.

Star Players: Established all-stars often fare better than rookies in value. A typically well-centered Mike Schmidt card in near mint can go for $15-30. Fellow slugger Dave Winfield sells around the same price point. Nolan Ryan, who was still in his dominant years in 1982, frequently sees bids over $20. Tom Seaver, Pete Rose, and Carl Yastrzemski also net $10-20 depending on centering and sharpness of image.

Errors and Variations: As with any large scale production, errors and deviations from the standard template are bound to occur. These accidental anomalies are highly prized by completionists and speculators. A notable error is Fernando Valenzuela’s card mistakenly showing him with the Los Angeles Dodgers rather than the St. Louis Cardinals (his actual 1982 team). This sought-after mistake can fetch over $200 graded mint. Other oddities like backwards images or miscut borders bring $50-100 to attentive buyers.

Graded Cards: As the vintage market becomes more sophisticated, third party authentication and grading adds significant value. Top graded rookies in Gem Mint 10 condition are truly prize possessions. A PSA 10 Cal Ripken Jr. rookie sold for $1,400 in early 2022. Likewise, a BGS 9.5 Tommy John card realized almost $800. While these stratospheric prices are reserved for absolute condition heroes, PSA/BGS 8s and 9s still enjoy premiums of 2x to 5x ungraded cards in the same condition. Slabbing cards protects condition and gives buyers extra confidence.

Team Sets: The 1982 Kmart set is distinct from competitors as it is broken up into team subsets of 5-7 cards each rather than the standard alphabetical checklist. Completing a full team set is an achievement for collectors. Near mint team sheets typically go for $35-50 on the open market depending on team demand and star power. Flagship franchises like the Yankees and Dodgers command $60-80 complete.

While mass produced compared to some other vintage issues, the 1982 Kmart Major League Baseball card set has endured to become a bonafide collectible over 40 years later. Condition and key cards remain the biggest drivers of value. For investors, high-grade rookies and errors provide the most upside potential. Casual collectors can still assemble a representative set on a budget by targeting common players. The unique team breakdown adds to the charm of this underappreciated slice of cardboard history.

1989 TOPPS KMART DREAM TEAM BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1989 Topps Kmart Dream Team baseball card set was a unique promotion by Topps and Kmart stores that allowed fans to vote for an all-time dream team of baseball stars from throughout history. The cards featured some of the greatest players to ever step on a baseball field and gave collectors a chance to own cards of legendary players from eras long past, even if they never had a standard trading card issued during their playing days.

In 1989, Topps created ballots that were distributed through Kmart stores that let consumers vote on their choices for the Topps Kmart All-Time Dream Team. The ballots featured over 100 iconic baseball players to choose from, spanning the earliest days of the professional sport in the late 1800s all the way up to iconic stars of the 1980s. Fans voted on their selections for starting lineups and pitching rotations for both the American League and National League dream teams.

Once the fan votes were tallied, Topps produced a 36-card insert set to be included randomly in 1989 Topps wax packs. The cards featured colorful rendering images of the top vote getters at each position as well as some of the leading pitchers. Even though some of these players hung up their spikes decades prior, Topps’ artists were able to put together realistic depictions of what legends like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Walter Johnson would have looked like in a major league uniform during the late 1980s era.

While the cards did not have any true statistical information since the players were from a wide range of eras, the backs did provide career highlights and accomplishments for each star. Finding a Kmart Dream Team card in a pack was a thrill for collectors, as it allowed them to own a piece of history from baseball’s golden ages. For many younger fans, it was their only opportunity to ever see what iconic figures like Honus Wagner and CY Young looked like in card form.

In subsequent years, the concept became so popular that Topps continued producing Kmart Dream Team sets into the 1990s. The scarcity of only 36 cards in the original 1989 set makes those particularly coveted by collectors today. In top graded gem mint condition, premium examples have sold for over $1,000 due to their historical significance and the challenge of finding such well-preserved 30+ year old cardboard. PSA 10 Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb rookies in particular can sell for $2,000 or more.

Even moderately played near-mint copies still carry value well above average 1989 Topps due to their iconic subjects and status as a truly one-of-a-kind baseball card product. While reprints and reproductions exist, only the original 1989 Kmart Dream Team issues produced by Topps hold legitimate collectible value. For advanced collectors, obtaining a full set with multiples to showcase in displays is a huge challenge. Individual cards also remain quite scarce to find in higher grades due to the fragile nature of the thin cardboard after three decades.

The 1989 Topps Kmart Dream Team cards were a can’t-miss promotion that perfectly blended the opportunity to own pieces of baseball history with the excitement of the modern trading card hobby. By letting fans directly participate in selecting the all-time squads, it created instant nostalgia and interest that resonates to this day. While print runs were small, the cards succeeded in immortalizing legends on cardboard for future generations. Whether purely displaying celebrities of the national pastime or shrewdly investing, the 1989 Kmart cards paved the way for dream team style issues to follow for decades. They remain a unique and captivating part of the hobby’s collectible landscape.

The 1989 Topps Kmart Dream Team baseball card set was a one-of-a-kind tribute to the history of America’s pastime. By combining fan voting with legendary imagery on cardboard, it brought icons of baseball’s early eras to the modern trading card age. Even after 30+ years, examples command premium prices due to their historical significance, limited production run, and spotlighting of some of the true all-time greats to ever play the game. The set marked a pioneering milestone that showed collecting could span generations by honoring those who came before.

1989 KMART BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1989 Kmart baseball card collection has become a favorite amongst baseball card collectors and vintage card enthusiasts. While not as well known as flagship releases from Topps or Fleer during the late 1980s, the ’89 Kmart set holds a nostalgic appeal and featured some iconic players from that era.

Released exclusively through Kmart stores, the 1989 baseball card collection contained 330 total cards printed on thick, high quality cardboard stock. The set featured players from both the American and National Leagues and included stars, rookies, and even some lesser known players. Design-wise, the cards had a simple but classic look with the team logo prominently displayed on a solid color background above the player photo. Stats and fun facts were listed on the back of each card.

Perhaps the biggest draw of the ’89 Kmart set was the inclusion of rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Greg Maddux. Griffey’s rookie is one of the most coveted and iconic baseball cards ever printed and his 1989 Kmart RC carries substantial value in high grade. Maddux would go on to have a legendary pitching career and win 4 Cy Young awards, making his ’89 Kmart rookie a must-have for collectors of the Braves ace. Other notable rookies in the set included Bobby Thigpen, Gary Sheffield, and Darrin Jackson.

In addition to rookies, the 1989 Kmart collection featured many of the game’s biggest stars from the late 1980s. Players like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, and Tony Gwynn were prominently featured. The Dodgers and Mets of that era were well represented with cards of Mike Scioscia, Kirk Gibson, Darryl Strawberry, and Dwight Gooden. The collection also included cards honoring legendary veterans like Nolan Ryan in his final MLB season and Reggie Jackson near the end of his illustrious career.

One unique aspect of the 1989 Kmart set was the inclusion of special promotion inserts. Throughout the 330 card base set, collectors could find special “Kmart Champions” inserts highlighting the most valuable player or top pitcher from each MLB team. These prestigious insert cards added another layer of challenges for collectors seeking to complete the set. Other special insert series in the ’89 Kmart collection paid tribute to all-time greats like Mickey Mantle and honored Negro League legends.

While produced exclusively for Kmart, the 1989 baseball card collection was sold individually for 49 cents per pack or available in discounted factory sets. This high availability at a major retailer led to a huge number of these cards being produced, circulated, and collected during that time period. The set never received the same limelight as other mainstream releases. Over the decades since, appreciation and demand for the ’89 Kmart set has grown significantly amongst collectors seeking out more obscure vintage issues.

In mint condition, particularly the Griffey and Maddux rookies remain quite valuable today. Most examples from 1989 Kmart sets found in collectors’ old shoeboxes and collections are well-loved but not in top graded shape. Even slightly played copies of stars and key rookies maintain substantial nostalgic appeal for collectors. When found in large factory sets or team sets, the entire 1989 Kmart collection can also carry value due its historic signifigance within the world of 1980s baseball cards.

After only a one year run in 1989, Kmart discontinued their own exclusive baseball card line. For fans and collectors of that late 80s MLB era, the retailer’s single release holds a beloved spot. The cards transported many kids back to summer afternoons watching their favorite players and introduced future hobbyists to the dawn of a new decade in baseball history. Over three decades later, the nostalgia and iconic moments captured in the 1989 Kmart baseball card set ensure it remains a highlight for those seeking out memorable pieces of sports card history from years past.

1988 KMART BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1988 Kmart baseball card set is a nostalgic reminder of summertime baseball for many collectors from that era. While the set doesn’t carry the same clout as flagship brands like Topps or Donruss, 1988 Kmart cards have developed a cult following in recent years. Let’s take a deeper look at this unique 1980s set and explore what certain cards may be worth to collectors today.

Kmart issued baseball cards as promotions each year from the late 1970s through the early 1990s. The stores would put packages of cards on shelves for kids to collect. The 1988 set stands out because it featured 432 total cards highlighting players from that current MLB season. While the photography and design quality wasn’t on par with the top brands, Kmart distributed the cards far and wide throughout its stores. This helped the 1988 set achieve wider distribution and recognition compared to other Kmart issues.

In the late 1980s, The United States was in the midst of a nationwide baseball card boom period. Major League Baseball was more popular than ever and collecting cards was a mainstream hobby. With their wide reach, the 1988 Kmart cards benefited from this mass appeal and popularity of the hobby. Many kids who collected them in 1988 still have fond memories of finding packs at Kmart. This nostalgia factor no doubt contributes to the growing interest in the set by modern collectors.

Let’s examine some key cards from the 1988 Kmart baseball set that tend to attract the most interest from collectors today:

Ken Griffey Jr. RC (Rookie Card): Arguably the flagship card of the set. Griffey was already one of the game’s brightest young stars in 1988 and his rookie is the most sought after by collectors. High graded versions in PSA/BGS slabs can reach $150-200.

Barry Bonds RC: Another star-studded rookie, Bonds’ 1988 Kmart RC follows Griffey in popularity. His card still carries more value as a rookie compared to later years due to off-field controversies. Expect to pay $50-75 for a well-centered near mint copy.

Mark McGwire: Big Mac was well on his way to superstardom in 1988 and anything relating to his pre-home run chase years holds value. His Kmart card in near mint condition sells in the $30-50 range.

Ozzie Smith error card: A rare error variation exists where Ozzie Smith is listed as a third baseman instead of shortstop. Only a small number are reported to exist. High graded examples can bring over $500 with the right bidder.

Nolan Ryan: One of the most respected and accomplished pitchers ever, Ryan’s name maintains strong nostalgia value. Near mint to mint copies trade hands for $15-25.

Other stars: Other big names that attract reasonable values include Kirby Puckett ($10-15), Cal Ripken Jr. ($12-18), Don Mattingly ($8-12) and Wade Boggs ($7-10).

Beyond individual star cards, there is also some value to be found in complete set collections depending on centering and condition:

Raw near complete sets (350+ cards): $40-70
Complete raw sets: $75-125
PSA/BGS 9 graded complete sets: $250-350
PSA/BGS 10 graded complete sets: $500-1000+

As with most older sets, higher grades will significantly increase an individual card or complete set’s worth, some that much more than others. The 1988 Kmart issue maintains a cult following and strong nostalgia factor which contributes to the rising values over time. While it lacks the premier status of Flagship brands, dedicated collectors are willing to pay respectable prices for their favorite stars and complete collections from this unique 1980s promotional baseball card set.

The 1988 Kmart baseball card set holds more value today than many likely expected back in 1988. Modern collectors appreciate its widespread distribution, star rookies, and nostalgia appeal from childhood summers. While condition is still very important, even lower grade common versions trade hands as collectors seek to recapture the fun of finding packs at local Kmarts over 30 years ago. The stars of that era remain the most invested cards, but complete runs also hold solid value based on centering and surface quality. The 1988 Kmart issue is a fun and affordable chunk of cardboard history from the peak of baseball’s 1980s boom.

MOST VALUABLE 1982 KMART BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1982 Kmart baseball card set is considered by many collectors to be one of the more unusual issues from the early 1980s. Unlike traditional card manufacturers like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss, Kmart was a major retail chain that decided to venture into the baseball card market for just one year. They produced a 132 card run that highlighted MLB players from the 1981 season. While the majority of cards in the set hold little value today, there are a handful that have grown to become quite valuable for serious collectors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most economically important 1982 Kmart baseball cards to own.

One of the true gems from the set is the Mike Schmidt card (#120). Schmidt was arguably the top third baseman in baseball during the early 1980s and won the National League MVP award in 1980 and 1981. His stats on the back of the card, which include 48 home runs and 119 RBI in 1981, cement his place as one of the game’s premier sluggers at the time. With such an impressive career highlighted on a key cardboard, it’s no surprise Schmidt’s Kmart issue has appreciation significantly. High grade copies in near mint to mint condition can typically fetch $100+ in today’s market. The rarity and stature of player make this one of the crown jewels of the entire release.

Another thick mustache slugger who has a valued Kmart issue is George Foster (#61). Foster was a power-hitting outfielder who posted MVP caliber seasons in 1977 while with the Cincinnati Reds. In 1981 with the New York Mets, he still managed to hit 25 home runs and drive in 80 runs. Today, a Foster in great condition will sell for $75-100 based on his solid 1981 season and status as an important piece of the Big Red Machine’s championship past. Like Schmidt, sharp copies in high grade represent the elite collecting tier within this obscure set.

As many vintage card investors know, early releases starring rising rookie talents tend increase in worth substantially after players blossom into big league standouts. One such example from the 1982 Kmart set is the Cal Ripken Jr. rookie card (#110). Being Ripken’s first ever card appearance, this issue has appreciated tremendously since his eventual induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007 as one of the greatest shortstops in MLB annals. Condition is critical, as a Near Mint example will command $200-300 on today’s market. For the extraordinary condition of a true gem mint Ripken rookie, the price tag escalates towards the $500-1000 range or more. Considering the future superstar depicted, it’s an appropriate valuation for such a significant pre-fame snapshot.

While not quite the household names that Schmidt, Foster, and Ripken became, there are a handful of other 1982 Kmart rookie cards that have earned respectable secondary market worth. One is the Tim Raines rookie (#61), which sells in the $50-75 range for a quality copy of the budding Marlins outfielder who would go on to have a stellar career highlighted by consecutive batting titles in the 1980s. Another is the Don Mattingly rookie (#70), valued between $75-125 given his eventual status as one of baseball’s premier hitters during his Dodgers tenure. Both represent solid long term investments for collectors pursuing rookie components, even from obscure early issues.

While the 1982 Kmart baseball card set doesn’t contain the same overall cache as mainstream manufacturers, there are definable gems within the roster that have appreciated substantially. Keys like the Schmidt, Foster, and Ripken cards represent the true blue chip specimens to pursue, with 4-figure prices attainable for immaculate samples. Even lesser known rookie issues have earned respect on the collecting market. For those building complete Kmart sets or diving into the individual high value cards, it’s a fun niche challenge of vintage cardboard collecting. With the recognized greats and emerging talents highlighted, the financial upside makes it a set certainly worth inspecting closely.

1990 TOPPS KMART SUPERSTARS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1990 Topps Kmart Superstars baseball card set was a unique promotional issue released exclusively through Kmart stores. While not part of Topps’ flagship baseball card releases for that year, the Kmart Superstars set showcased certain popular players of the era in a large “superstar” sized card format. The oversized cards had dimensions of approximately 3.5 inches by 5 inches, giving collectors an imposing presence on their shelves or in their collections.

Topps often partnered with major retailers in the late 1980s and early 1990s to produce special baseball card sets exclusive to those stores. Kmart was one of the biggest retailers in the country at the time and had a huge customer base, so Topps saw the Kmart Superstars set as a way to drive people into Kmart stores seeking the cards while also promoting some of baseball’s top stars. The large card size also lent itself well to in-store promotional displays at Kmart to help catch the eyes of potential collectors.

The 1990 Kmart Superstars set consisted of 100 total cards issued in wax packs that could be purchased at Kmart for $1.99 per pack. Unlike a typical baseball card release which included players from all teams, the Kmart Superstars focused only on superstar players from that time period. Some of the biggest names included were Jose Canseco, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr, Mark McGwire, Wade Boggs, Kirby Puckett, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens. Each card featured a colorful action photo of the player on the front along with their team name, position, and statistics on the back.

The promotional aspect of the 1990 Kmart Superstars release was apparent with advertisements for Kmart visible on the front and backs of many cards. However, Topps still maintained creative control over the card designs themselves. While simple compared to some modern baseball cards, the large size allowed for vivid color photos and good clarity on player details. This gave the cards more visual appeal than a typical checklist card might have in simply advertising a retailer. Fans enjoyed collecting these stars in an oversized presentation not found anywhere else.

Distribution of the 1990 Kmart Superstars set was handled solely through Kmart stores nationwide for about 6 months. Packs were stocked in the trading card aisles alongside other Topps releases during baseball season. While mass produced, the exclusive retail availability and focus on only superstar players made complete sets somewhat difficult for younger collectors to acquire. Many kids potentially missed out based on proximity to a Kmart or disposable allowance income at the time. This exclusivity adds nostalgic appeal for those who did obtain a majority of the stars from 1990.

Secondary market demand for the 1990 Topps Kmart Superstars emerged in subsequent years as the now adult collectors sought to finish childhood sets. While never as expensive as flagship Topps issues, partial to complete sets online periodically fetch $20-$100 depending on condition and popularity of the players included. Key cards of superstars like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, or Cal Ripken tend to sell for a few dollars each individually. The large size also remains a nostalgia factor appealing to many collectors even decades later.

The promotional model of exclusive baseball card releases through major retailers proved successful enough that Topps continued similar smaller print runs with Kmart well into the 1990s. The 1990 Kmart Superstars set stands out as one of the earliest and most recognizable of these special issues due to the stars it highlighted and large eye-catching card size during baseball’s peak popularity period. While produced with a focus on moving product in Kmart stores, the set endured as a unique piece of collectible cardboard history for fans of the era’s biggest names. After only being available for a single season through a single retailer, the 1990 Topps Kmart Superstars took on greater mystique and remains a nostalgic chase for baseball card collectors today.

KMART TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1982

Leave a reply

The 1982 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and significant releases from the manufacturing company’s long history. Packaged and sold at Kmart stores across America, the ’82 Topps set featured 660 total cards and marked several notable milestones. This was the set that Nolan Ryan reached his record 5,000th career strikeout, captured for collectors on card #481. It was also the rookie card year for such future Hall of Famers as Wade Boggs, Cal Ripken Jr., and Ryne Sandberg. With its tradition of highlighting both statistical achievements and new star players, the 1982 Topps baseball card set became a hugely popular product found in the sporting goods aisles of Kmart.

Topps had been the undisputed king of the baseball card market since the 1950s. By 1982, they had over 30 years of experience perfecting the formula that made their annual releases must-have items for any young ballplayer or collector. That year’s designs continued Topps’ time-tested blueprint with vibrant color photos on the front, player stats and fun facts on the back. Every team from the American and National Leagues was represented through full rosters of cards for both the 1981 season and Topps’ projections for ’82. Ex-Major Leaguers and minor leaguers rounds out the sticker collection. With distribution through general merchandise leaders like Kmart, 1982 Topps baseball cards truly blanketed the country each spring.

Beyond the proven visuals and inclusive lineup of players, there were several factors that made the 1982 Topps set extra special. Nolan Ryan’s record-breaking 5,000th strikeout was one of the most publicized pitching milestones in MLB history up to that point. Topps secured exclusive rights to commemorate this historic achievement through card #481 featuring “The Ryan Express.” Millions of kids opened packs hoping for this one-of-a-kind card chronicling one of the game’s truly legendary moments. Rookie cards are also extremely coveted by collectors, and ’82 included future Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs’ first card for the Boston Red Sox on #453.

Meanwhile, a hot young shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles was starting to turn heads. 21-year-old Cal Ripken Jr. received card #552 for his rookie season. Little did anyone know he would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s famed “Iron Man” consecutive games played streak nearly two decades later. And Ryne Sandberg’s rookie card, found on #607 for the Philadelphia Phillies, turned out to be a harbinger of greatness as the smooth second baseman developed into a perennial All-Star and Gold Glover. These were the cards that planted seeds for legendary careers, all packaged neatly in Kmart’s cardboard racks.

The 1982 Topps baseball card set succeeded in capturing so many pivotal moments within that 1981 season and beyond. Not only did it chronicle new records and rookie talent, but it also served as a veritable yearbook of the era through team photos and individual player portraits. The design remained fundamentally nostalgic while still feeling fresh. Distribution at Kmart and other outlets ensured the entire country had access to this special annual release. Prices were affordable enough that most kids could earn enough allowance or do odd jobs to purchase a few packs. As a result, the ’82 Topps set became a true touchpoint culturally, breathing new life into the hobby at a time when it faced competition from other leisure activities vying for kids’ attention. The cards resonated with collectors for decades to come.

In the ensuing years, mint condition examples of particularly prized 1982 Topps cards, especially those of rookie superstars Boggs, Ripken, and Sandberg, have sold for thousands of dollars. The full 660-card rainbow set in excellent condition can fetch over $10,000. But for many who ripped open those old wax packs as children in Kmart, the cards retain immense sentimental value regardless of monetary worth. They stir memories of baseball summers past and collective experiences bonding over America’s favorite pastime. The 1982 Topps set remains a cherished connection to a bygone era for a generation, all because kids could find these affordable packs on pegs throughout their local Kmarts.

1987 KMART BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

Leave a reply

The 1987 Kmart baseball card set is one of the more intriguing and valuable sets from the junk wax era of the late 1980s. Produced as a special promotion by Kmart stores, the set showcased major league players from that season in vivid color photographs on standard size cards. While the set does not receive as much attention today compared to flagship releases from Topps, Donruss, and Fleer, savvy collectors know there is value to be found in scoping out stars, rookies, and oddball varieties from the Kmart issue.

One of the more appealing aspects of the 1987 Kmart cards lies in the photography and design. Snapped by renowned baseball photographer William R. Glading Jr, the portraits capture the players in crisp detail with vibrant colors that pop off the cardboard. Each player is shown head-on against a plain white or gray background, letting their face and uniform take center stage. Basic card stats are printed on the reverse along with a memorable Kmart slogan “You’ll Love It!” The fronts have a clean look devoid of any logos save for small Kmart and Glading credits in the bottom corners.

While production numbers for the set are unknown, they were likely quite high given Kmart’s widespread retail presence. Not all cards made it to the retail level as promotional inserts were also found in some packs. Perhaps due to the lower hobby shop and show availability compared to the Big Three releases, the 1987 Kmart cards never quite reached junk status and prices have held steady over the decades. Common players in Excellent condition can be had for 50 cents to a dollar while stars command $3-5.

Rookies and prospects in the set that debuted in 1987 include future Hall of Famers Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux for the Atlanta Braves as well as pitcher Bruce Hurst for the Boston Red Sox. All are reasonably priced between $5-10 even in high grade. Those who emerged as true stars have increased value such as Tim Raines’ Excelsior-refractor parallel which nets $40 due to his stolen base prowess for the Montreal Expos. Mark McGwire, slugging for the Oakland A’s in his rookie season, commands $15-20 despite not being a particularly scarce card.

The biggest star and most desired card is unsurprisingly New York Mets phenom Dwight Gooden. Known as “Doc” for his trademark glasses and overpowering fastball, Gooden exploded onto the scene in 1985 by winning Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young award. He followed that up with an equally dominant 24-4 season in 1987 to earn his second straight Cy Young. Gooden’s pristine Kmart portrait captures his boyish cheeks and thick mustache during his playing prime. High grade versions in the $15-25 range are reasonably priced despite his legend, with flawless Mint specimens bringing over $50.

Outside of the stars and prospects, error varieties exist that spike certain players’ values through scarcity alone. The rarest is Gene Garber of the California Angels whose photo is inadvertently printed upside down, fetching upwards of $100 due to the one-of-a-kind mistake. Other oddball varieties include promotional die-cuts and box-top redemption inserts that offer stats and fact parallels. Staple stars like Ozzie Smith, Don Mattingly, and Mike Schmidt command $5-10 each regardless of condition.

While perhaps not as iconic as the major sets, avid collectors appreciate the 1987 Kmart baseball cards for their unique photography and affordable prices across the board. Future Hall of Famers, award winners, and infamous errors make select cards well worth hunting down to add pop and affordability to any junk wax-era collection. With vibrant designs, big names, and a compelling manufacturing backstory, it’s clear to see why this oddball issue from a supermarket chain has endured as a memorable footnote in baseball card history.

1987 KMART 25TH ANNIVERSARY BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

1987 marked Kmart’s 25th anniversary and to celebrate the retail giant’s milestone, they issued a special 283-card baseball card set featuring current major league players. While Kmart had distributed baseball cards in stores before as promotions, this marked their most expansive sports card release to date and was certainly one of the biggest sporting card issues of 1987.

The set was produced by Fleer and had tremendous distribution through Kmart stores across America, making the cards very accessible and affordable for collectors at just 89 cents per pack. Each pack contained 8 cards with players from both the American and National Leagues represented. One of the most intriguing aspects of the 1987 Kmart 25th anniversary set was that Fleer was able to obtain players’ licences, meaning the cards featured the official logos of all major league teams from that season.

This was something that Topps, who had the monopoly on MLB player contracts at the time, did not allow other card companies to replicate on their products. Having the logos added authenticity and made the Kmart cards more desirable for collectors accustomed to generic team designations on competing brands. The front of each card displayed the player’s picture and stats while the back provided a brief biography. Organization was by team with the American League listed first.

Some of the superstar players included on the cards were Roger Clemens, Darryl Strawberry, Barry Bonds, Wade Boggs, Kirby Puckett, Andre Dawson, Jimmy Key and Rickey Henderson. Roster balance was also an aim with stars, rookies, and role players all represented. Notable rookies included Will Clark, Gregg Jefferies and Jay Howell. The set was a massive success that completely sold out in Kmart stores, requiring additional print runs to meet demand. Even today, complete sets in good condition can fetch $100-150 on the secondary market showing its enduring popularity.

While collecting the entire set was achievable given wide distribution, chase cards did emerge that are more difficult to obtain. Some of the harder cards to find include #1 Barry Bonds, #13 Mark McGwire, #18 Don Mattingly, #46 Kirby Puckett, and #205 Steve Carlton. Higher grades of these cards can sell for $20-50 singles. The design also featured a basic photo vertical layout with team logo at top. For the time, it represented a state of the art baseball card set appearance that held up well against contemporary Topps and Donruss issues.

Since Kmart carried inventory of many other sporting cards including football and hockey, some error variations crept into the baseball set. Specifically, 13 players had their photos swapped with others from different sports. Examples include Boston Red Sox reserve catcher Rich Gedman having his picture replaced with Miami Dolphin quarterback Dan Marino. Or Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Kevin Gross pictured but really New York Rangers hockey player James Patrick on the back. These photo swap errors fascinate collectors and can demand premium prices of $75-150 in higher grades depending on the specific player crossover.

Overall distribution for the 1987 Kmart 25th Anniversary Baseball Card set was massive thanks to the retailer’s presence all over America. Getting cards into the hands of children and adults helped foster new collectors. While not quite the official MLB issue of the time, having the logos lent legitimacy. Accuracy of stats and biographies also made it a useful set beyond just casual collecting. Affordability was a big plus too. Today it lives on as a key vintage release that defined the mid-80s card boom era. For both its historical significance representing Kmart and baseball card popularity at that time, the 1987 issue remains a very collectible set.

The 1987 Kmart 25th Anniversary Baseball Card set was a monumental sports card release that celebrated a major American retailer while also producing affordable cards for legions of new collectors. Distribution through Kmart stores ensured great accessibility. Including official logos and quality content made it a worthwhile competitor to Topps flagship issues of the period. Accurate rosters balanced stars with prospects to offer something for all fans. While common cards can be readily obtained, some chase variations have proven elusive. It was a massively popular set that played a role in growing the hobby. For research and collecting purposes, the 1987 Kmart cards remain an important part of baseball card history from the 1980s boom era.