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1989 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1989 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and collectible issues from the late 1980s. With 792 total cards in the base set, the ’89 Topps release contains several key rookie cards and stars of the era that continue to hold value among collectors decades later. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1989 Topps baseball cards to keep an eye out for.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered one of the most desirable rookie cards in the hobby, the Ken Griffey Jr. RC from 1989 Topps is a must-have for any collection. Griffey emerged as a rookie sensation for the Seattle Mariners in 1989, winning AL Rookie of the Year honors and displaying the skills that would make him a future Hall of Famer. In high grade, the Griffey rookie routinely sells for well over $1,000 and is one of the most valuable modern-era cards on the market. Even in low-end condition, it remains quite collectible and holds substantial monetary worth.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card: Like Griffey, Barry Bonds established himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars in 1989 and his rookie card from this set is a significant find. Bonds won the NL Rookie of the Year and NL MVP awards in 1990 to kick off what became a legendary career. Condition is key for the Bonds rookie, as pristine copies can reach the $3,000-$5,000 range. But even well-worn examples still carry value north of $100 due to his all-time great status.

Greg Maddux: As one of the most distinguished pitchers of his generation, winning four CY Young awards and355 career victories, Greg Maddux cards from his early Chicago Cubs tenure hold appeal. His ’89 Topps card shows him at age 22, on the cusp of blossoming into a superstar. High-grade versions can sell between $200-$500.

Rickey Henderson: The lone card of dynamic Oakland A’s leadoff hitter and base-stealing master Rickey Henderson has maintained popularity since 1989. As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner ever, Henderson’s on-card accomplishments listed make this a significant issue to own. Expect to pay $50-plus even for low-end copies.

Nolan Ryan Express Issue: Topps issued a special Nolan Ryan “Express” card separate from the base set that highlights different moments from his illustrious career. As baseball’s all-time strikeout king with 7 no-hitters, anything related to Ryan remains widely collected. High-grade Express issues can bring $100+.

Ken Phelps Traded Set Card: This traded set inclusion shows Ken Phelps as a Seattle Mariner, though he was actually traded to the Mets later in 1989 for Starlin Castro in an infamous blockbuster deal. The bizarre trade lore surrounding this swap adds an aspect of interest for collectors. Pricing ranges based on condition from $20-150.

Dwight Gooden: Prior to injuries derailing his career, Dwight Gooden was among the most electrifying pitchers in baseball through the late 1980s as ace of the New York Mets staff. His ’89 Topps issue reminds of “Doc’s” dominance before personal troubles. Mid-range condition copies still trade for $15-30.

Ozzie Smith Back Issue: Considered one of the finest defensive shortstops ever, Ozzie Smith was a mainstay in St. Louis throughout the 1980s. His acrobatic plays made him a fan-favorite, immortalized on his 1989 Topps card. High-Quality versions command $75+.

Don Mattingly: As captain of the New York Yankees Dynasty teams, slugging first baseman Don Mattingly was one of the biggest stars in baseball during his mid-1980s peak. His ’89 card remains a standout issue due to his name recognition and on-field accomplishments shown on the back. Expect to pay $10-25 depending on condition.

Bobby Thigpen Record Breaker Card: Chicago White Sox reliever Bobby Thigpen shattered the single-season saves record in 1990 with 57, highlighted on this ’89 Topps update issue. Preservation of records and a player’s one big season hold appeal, so Thigpen cards carry significance. Mid-range grades average $15-30.

Besides the key rookie cards and stars, set-filler commons from the 1989 Topps baseball issue often sell in the $1-5 range regardless of condition. Even beat-up copies can find buyers due to the set’s popularity. For breakers of unopened wax packs and boxes, there are several big hits that could yield huge returns such as a Gem Mint Griffey or Bonds rookie. Three decades after their release, cards from the ’89 Topps set remain major drivers in the vintage trading card market. With proven track records of appreciation, they make for great long-term collecting opportunities.

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80S AND 90S BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1980s and 1990s were a golden era for baseball card collecting. With more companies printing cards and insert sets on the rise, there were countless cards released each year that have grown exponentially in value since. For collectors looking to assemble a collection or make a profit flipping cards from this period, here are some of the top 80s and 90s baseball cards to keep an eye out for.

Rookie Cards – One of the best ways to find valuable cards is to target rookie cards, especially for all-time great players. Some iconic 80s rookie cards to look for include Donruss Roger Clemens (1984), Topps Traded Wade Boggs (1983), and Fleer Update Cal Ripken Jr. (1982). Notable 90s rookie gems are Bowman Chipper Jones (1993), Pinnacle Ken Griffey Jr. (1990), and Topps Gold Ken Griffey Jr. (1989). These cards for future Hall of Famers can fetch thousands in top condition today.

Error Cards – Printing mistakes that create one-of-a-kind or extremely rare cards have always intrigued collectors. Iconic 80s errors include the Glossy Tigers error card from 1987 Topps and the Reverse Negative error cards from 1982 Donruss. Key 90s mistakes to watch for involve miscut cards, such as the infamous 1990 Topps Frank Thomas with another player visible. These unique anomalies can sell for over $10,000.

Refractors – In the mid-90s, Upper Deck revolutionized the hobby by introducing the first refractors, cards with a shimmering foil coating. The holy grails are the 1995 Ken Griffey Jr. and Derek Jeter refractors, which have sold for over $100,000 in pristine condition. Other coveted 90s refractors include the 1998 Chipper Jones, 1999 Pedro Martinez, and 1997 Larry Walker.

Traded/Update Sets – Inserted midway through the standard release, traded and update sets featured new photos and stats. Notable examples are the 1984 Donruss Traded set, home to Rickey Henderson’s last card as an Athletic. The 1990 Topps Traded set yielded a Frank Thomas rookie. Update sets like 1992 Stadium Club Update and 1993 Upper Deck SP Authenticated also hold value.

Star Rookie Cup Cards – Starting in 1988, Fleer included Star Rookie Cup parallel cards highlighting top prospects. Key ones are the Ken Griffey Jr. (1989), Frank Thomas (1990), and Chipper Jones (1992) issues. The rarer Star Rookie Cup Signature editions, which featured autographed versions, can bring in over $10,000.

Expos Franchise Stars – Due to the Expos moving to D.C. in 2005, cards of their greats like Andre Dawson, Tim Raines, and Gary Carter hold extra cachet. Top cards are Dawson’s 1979 Topps rookie and his 1987 Donruss Studio Portrait. A near-mint Raines 1986 Fleer Update RC recently sold for over $6,000.

Insert Sets – Innovative insert sets added collecting intrigue in the 90s. Ultra inserts like 1992 Studio Best Ballplayers of the 20th Century and 1997 Finest Best of the Century featured retrospective parallels. Premium sets like 1998 Bowman’s Best Prospects honored top prospects. Complete high-number sets can sell for thousands.

Autograph Cards – As the hobby evolved, companies inserted more autographed cards. Key 80s autos are the scarce 1984 Donruss Darryl Strawberry and 1985 Topps Mark McGwire rookies. Top 90s signed cards involve the rare 1992 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. and 1994 SP Authenticated Jeff Bagwell rookie autos. Pristine examples surpass $10,000.

Numbered Parallels – Limited parallel insert sets added prestige and scarcity. The elusive 1988 Fleer Update Ben McDonald #1 of 1 is legendary. Iconic 90s parallels include the rare 1992 Stadium Club Gold Frank Thomas #65 and 1997 Topps Chrome Refractors like the Chipper Jones #150. Low-numbered versions command huge prices.

Star Pitchers – The arms that dominated the mound in the 80s and 90s hold great nostalgia. Top cards are Nolan Ryan’s record-breaking 1987 Topps, Orel Hershiser’s 1988 Donruss after his 59-inning scoreless streak, and Pedro Martinez’s dominant 2000 season for the Red Sox. High-grade versions sell for thousands.

This just scratches the surface of the countless valuable baseball cards produced in the 1980s and 1990s. For collectors, focusing on star players, especially their rookie cards, as well as scarce parallels, errors, and autographed inserts increases the odds of finding a modern gem worth a premium. With patience and research, there are still untapped treasures hiding in wax packs and collections from baseball’s golden card era.

1993 BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1993 baseball card season featured some of the most iconic and valuable cards of the 1990s. This was a transitional year for the baseball card industry as the era of mass produced commodity cards began to fade in favor of inserts and parallels that added more scarcity and collectability to the hobby. While most base cards from 1993 sets can be acquired fairly cheaply today, there are several standout rookies, stars and one-of-a-kind inserts from that year that continue to demand high prices from dedicated collectors.

One of the biggest stars on 1993 baseball cards was Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Joe Carter. Coming off his 1992 World Series winning home run, Carter’s cards were hot commodities. His main rookie card came in 1987 Donruss but his flagship 1993 Topps card remains a highly sought after and relatively expensive card for a base issue, often selling for $20-30 in top-graded Gem Mint (MT) condition. Carter appeared in Upper Deck, Fleer, Score and Stadium Club sets as well that year with the Upper Deck option being the most valuable due to the brand’s superior production quality and photography.

Another huge name collectors look for is Ken Griffey Jr. 1993 was his breakout season on the heels of consecutive AL MVP awards in 1990-1992. While Griffey rookie cards from 1989 Fleer and Upper Deck had already achieved icon status, his highly photogenic 1993 Topps and Upper Deck cards exploded in popularity and demand, cementing Griffey as the new face of the league. Ultra-high grade copies of Griffey’s 1993 Topps and Upper Deck sell for thousands of dollars today, making them must-own cards for any vintage collection. Finding a Mint/MT copy of his 1993 Topps card in particular will cost a collector thousands.

Rookies were also a major draw in 1993 sets thanks to debuts from future Hall of Famers like Craig Biggio, Frank Thomas, Mike Piazza and John Smoltz. Biggio spent his entire illustrious career with the Astros and 1993 Fleer was his true rookie card debut after only appearing in a few sets the prior year. Barring an ultra-high gem mint grade, most Biggio 1993 Fleers can be found between $15-30. Thomas and Piazza made their paper debuts in 1992 but 1993 was their true “rookie” season. Piazza’s 1993 Topps rookie remains one of the all-time most iconic cards while a PSA 10 copy of his 1989 Upper Deck RC fetches over $20,000. Thomas’ 1993 rookie cards held strong values for years and while prices have cooled a bit, finding high-graded versions from Topps, Fleer or Stadium Club are still noteworthy additions to any collector’s vintage portfolio.

Another compelling 1993 rookie for collectors to target is Moises Alou. The son of former major leaguer Felipe Alou got his career off to a blazing start, winning the 1993 NL Rookie of the Year award with a .340 average, 33 HR and 107 RBI split between the Cubs and Expos. Alou’s true rookie card came in the 1992 Stadium Club set but his more widely available 1993 Fleer Update and Topps rookies command respectable prices even in lower grades. Copies graded Mint by PSA will still go for $50-100 or more due to his compelling back story and immediate breakout success as a rookie.

While stars on rookie cards dominate 1993 card conversations, several huge established names from the era produced iconic flagship cards that year as well. Dodger first baseman Eric Karros appeared on some of the best photography of the year as he belted out his career-best 40 home runs. His stoic posing with bat in the on-deck circle for 1993 Topps became a defining baseball image. Sandy Koufax, the legendary lefty who had been retired for nearly 30 years at the time, made a rare modern cameo in 1993 Topps, posing on the Dodgers bench alongside manager Tommy Lasorda. These classic image cards hold nostalgia and value even today.

Another perennial All-Star who became a breakout 1993 card star was Phillies outfielder Darren Daulton. Known more for his leadership qualities than flashy stats, “Dutch” took an iconic at-bat pose for his 1993 Topps card that invoked the intensity and grit of his game. That dramatic image against a blank blue backdrop has become one of the enduring visuals from the entire decade of cards. Even run-of-the-mill copies get bid up due to the card’s iconic resonance with collectors and Phillies fans alike.

Perhaps no 1993 card holds more mystique and lore than the infamous Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck HR edition printing plate card. Only nine specimens are known to exist of the rare one-of-one engraved plate used to print Griffey’s Home Run Kings insert cards in the flagship Upper Deck set. One recently sold at auction for over $275,000, setting a new record for a single baseball card ever sold publicly. While virtually unattainable for most collectors, the mystery and value surrounding this extremely rare piece of cardboard history adds extra intrigue to one of the most collectible players and seasons the hobby has seen.

While 1993 held many affordable and exciting cards for the growing masses of collectors at the time, it also featured some true icons, rookie sensations and one-of-a-kinds that have stood the test of time. High-grade versions of stars like Griffey, Carter, Piazza, Biggio and rookies like Thomas, Alou and debut images of Koufax remain highly sought after and valuable today for good reason. For discerning collectors, 1993 offers enduring stars, tantalizing prospects and rare treasures that make it one of the true pinnacles of the entire vintage card era.

LOOK UP BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Learning how to look up baseball cards value is an important part of collecting the trading cards. With over a century of cards produced, narrowing down which cards may be worth something takes some research. The value of any given card can vary greatly depending on its condition, year, player, and many other factors. For collectors just starting out, it’s wise to take the time to learn about grading scales, key card years, and valuation resources so you have the knowledge to properly assess your collection.

One of the most important aspects of determining a card’s worth is its physical condition, often referred to as its grade. Nearly all vintage and modern cards lose value with wear and damage like creases, tears, or edge issues. The main industry standard for grading is the 1-10 point scale overseen by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). On this scale, a PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 card is pristine and can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands depending on other attributes. As the grade drops down to a PSA/BGS 1, the value plummets. It’s crucial to assess condition closely and be realistic about the grade when valuing your own cards.

Beyond condition, certain years or sets are highly collectible and can influence a card’s price dramatically. The rookie cards and early career cards of all-time great players tend to be most valuable. For example, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card in gem condition is worth over $2 million due to Mantle’s legendary career and the scarcity of high-grade ’52 Topps cards surviving over 65 years. Other iconic cards like the T206 Honus Wagner (1909-11), the ’33 Goudey Babe Ruth, and ’40 Playball Joe DiMaggio are exceedingly rare and can reach into the six figure prices or higher in top condition.

More recently, the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie and the ’90 Finest Refractor Mike Piazza rookie are highly sought rookie cards that can sell for thousands graded perfectly. Auto and memorabilia cards from the late ’90s through present can also carry steep values, especially if they feature young stars’ first autograph or patch cards prior to superstardom. The 2012 Topps Mike Trout autograph rookie sold for over $400,000 when Trout began living up to his huge potential. Modern parallels, short prints, and one-of-one cards also gain collector interest and pricing premiums.

Outside of the true high-end, rare cards, there are various online resources that allow collectors to research estimated values for the bulk of their card collections. Websites like BaseballCardPedia.com, COMC.com, and Beckett.com provide extensive databases of recently sold eBay prices for most notable cards sorted by year, set, player and grade. Card conditions like very good/good, near mint/excellent and gem mint are usually searchable value ranges. These sites pool data from thousands of actual eBay sales to provide transparent market valuations for collection assessment and trade purposes.

Card shows, conventions and brick-and-mortar shops also offer opportunities to connect with professional dealers who have deep expertise grading cards and providing accurate estimated values to collectors. While online resources are convenient, experienced buyers and sellers who actually handle cards daily tend have the sharpest eyes to properly assess tough to grade cards or those with specific issues that may impact value. Meeting dealers in person allows collectors to get second opinions on question marks in their collections and discuss potential options to sell valued cards if desired.

When just starting out, it’s easy to get over excited about cards and overestimate potential value due to attachment or inexperience grading conditions accurately. Take the time to carefully research prices of comparable graded sales of the same cards to get a realistic expectation rather than hoping for a huge payday. Building expertise through continued researching online sales data will serve collectors well for valuing complete sets and long boxes of accumulation over time. With diligent effort, anyone can develop a sharp eye for what types of cards are truly worth investing time to potentially sell or trade up over just keeping for fun collection building.

Factors like vintage year, condition grade, player pedigree, scarcity and overall collector demand dictate baseball card prices more than any one element alone. Taking a calculated, data-driven approach to learning valuation helps optimize collecting fun while avoiding costly pitfalls. With patience and research, any collector can gain proficiency accurately appraising cards and value in their own growing collection over the years. Mastering this baseline skill sets the stage to possibly profit from the hobby down the road or trade wisely to boost collecting enjoyment. Looking up baseball cards value strategically pays ongoing dividends regardless of the end collecting objectives.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR 2022

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The 2022 Topps baseball card set is set to hit shelves soon, and collectors are already eagerly anticipating which cards could prove valuable in the years to come. While it’s impossible to predict the future, here are some key Topps baseball cards from the upcoming release that collectors may want to keep an eye out for based on player performance, parallels, rookie cards, and more.

Shohei Ohtani cards: The reigning AL MVP had an unprecedentedly incredible season in 2021 that cemented his status as one of the game’s biggest stars. His base Topps cards from 2022 are almost guaranteed to hold value given his unique two-way playing abilities and marketability. Collector’s may want to target parallel and short-printed versions of his cards in particular. Many predict Ohtani has potential to become the face of baseball and any cards featuring him early in his career will be highly sought after long term.

Rookie cards of top prospects: Every year, collectors look to snatch up the rookie cards of players expected to breakout. Some names to watch for in 2022 include catcher Adley Rutschman (Orioles), shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals), and pitcher Grayson Rodriguez (Orioles). While performance ultimately determines value, their talented prospects make their rookies compelling targets. In particular, short-printed parallels could gain value quickly if any of these rookies blossom into stars as expected.

Juan Soto rainbow foil cards: The Nationals superstar is already establishing himself as a generational talent at just 23 years old. His 2022 Topps base card is sure to attract attention. But collectors may want to pursue high-end rainbow foil parallels, which feature dazzling colorful backgrounds. These limited print run cards of the game’s brightest young stars often spike in value faster. As Soto’s career progresses, any uber-rare versions of his rookie cards will hold tremendous long term appeal.

Debut cards of high profile signings: Every year there’s excitement surrounding the first baseball cards featuring big name free agents with their new teams. In 2022, eyes will be on cards showing Kris Bryant (Rockies), Corey Seager (Rangers), Marcus Semien (Rangers), Max Scherzer (Mets), and others in their new uniforms. While they may not end up being particularly rare, the debut aspects give these cards appeal to both team and player collectors.

Parallel jersey or autographed cards of emerging stars: Players like Fernando Tatis Jr., Ronald Acuña Jr., Wander Franco, and others who are just starting to establish themselves as franchise cornerstones may have parallels and autographs that stand out. Parallel cards that feature on-card jersey swatches or game-used memorabilia hold inherent collector interest. And low-numbered autographs of current young talent could garner long term returns if their careers pan out as expected.

Golden Anniversary parallel sets: In 2022, Topps will produce special Golden Anniversary parallel sets to commemorate their iconic brand reaching the significant milestone of producing cards for 50 years. These parallel sets featuring players across the sport are sure to attract premiums given their commemorative nature. Within the sets, specific cards of star players may catch the eyes of collectors.

Top rookie card of winning Cy Young or MVP: It’s impossible to predict breakthrough seasons, but the rookie card of a player who unexpectedly wins Cy Young or MVP honors in their first or second year tends to gain immensely in value. Candidates like Cardinals pitcher Matthew Liberatore or Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez have talent to potentially make a major impact right away. Their rookies may become surprise valuables if they emerge as award winners or stars sooner than expected.

Short prints and error cards: As with any set release, short printed base cards and manufacturing errors tend to attract attention from error collectors. Specific players featured on such rare variations could see values spike depending on factors like the player’s profile and parallel specifics. Veterans like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and others also pull interest for interesting error variations early in the card’s life cycle.

While the future is uncertain, by targeting cards of burgeoning stars, emerging rookies, potential award winners, parallels and variations, collectors can put themselves in a position to profit if some 2022 Topps cards appreciate based on player performance or collecting trends. Of course, it also takes a bit of luck to end up with the exact card that catches fire. But focusing on the players, teams and parallel types outlined above provides collectors informed guidance on what to pursue from the upcoming baseball release.

The 2022 season shapes up to be another exciting one on the diamond. And if history is any guide, Dansby Swanson, Juan Soto, Mike Trout and other top players from this year’s Topps series could end up as prized vintage pieces cherished by collectors for decades to come. With rookies like Adley Rutschman and Bobby Witt Jr. just beginning their careers, along with superstars Shohei Ohtani and Fernando Tatis Jr. entertaining fans, the 2022 issue seems poised to produce enduringly valuable cardboard long after the current campaign is in the books. Card collectors anticipating the set can target the above players, variations and circumstances to try and snag cards that appreciate based on on-field events or the passage of time.

BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR COLLECTION

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Baseball cards have been collected by fans for over a century and bring back memories of favorite players from days gone by. While many cards in collections hold sentimental value, some are actually quite valuable depending on their condition and the player featured. Here are some baseball cards collectors should take a closer look at that could add significant value to their collection.

1909 T206 Honus Wagner – The crown jewel of all baseball cards is the ultra-rare 1909 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, it is believed only 50-200 of these were printed making it one of the most sought after cards ever. In pristine condition, it can fetch over $2 million at auction. Even well-worn examples in poor condition have sold for over $100,000. The rarity and mystique around Wagner, considered one of the best shortstops ever, is why this card commands the highest price in the hobby.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card is the pinnacle card for the famed New York Yankee centerfielder. While not quite as scarce as the Wagner, it is still extremely difficult to find in high grade. Mantle went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is considered one of the greatest switch hitters in MLB history. Graded mint condition examples have sold for over $400,000 in recent years. Even moderately played copies still sell for five figures.

1933 Goudey Babe Ruth – Produced during the height of Babe Ruth’s playing career by Goudey Gum Company, the 1933 card is one of the most iconic images of the famed slugger. High grade copies are exceptionally rare with only a handful known to exist. In 2013, a PSA Gem Mint 10 copy sold for a record $637,500 at auction. While still pricey, lower graded versions can be had for $30,000-$50,000 depending on condition. The Ruth remains a highly coveted card for his enduring popularity.

1974 Topps Nolan Ryan – Nolan Ryan’s rookie card from his first Topps issue in 1974 is one of the most significant pitching cards ever printed. Ryan went on to break numerous strikeout records and pitch until he was 46 years old. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $25,000 in recent years with lower graded copies still bringing $3,000-$5,000. His prolific career and rarity as a true first-year card make this a must-have for Ryan collectors.

1969 Topps Willie Mays – Produced during the twilight of Willie Mays’ career, the 1969 Topps card remains one of the most visually appealing images of “The Say Hey Kid.” Highly graded versions command over $15,000 but well-centered copies in average condition still sell for $2,000-$3,000. Mays was already a living legend at this point with over 600 home runs and is considered one of the greatest all-around players ever. His popularity endures to this day.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – Hank Aaron’s rookie card from his first season with the Milwaukee Braves in 1957 is a must for any collection. Aaron went on to break Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record and finished with 755 career dingers. PSA 10 examples have sold for $25,000 but lower graded copies are still valued at $5,000-$10,000 depending on centering and condition issues. Aaron’s historic career and the fact it was his true rookie card make this a highly sought after piece for collectors.

1975 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. – While not nearly as old as the previous entries, Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie card from his first Bowman set in 1975 holds significant value. Ripken went on to break Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak at 2,632 games and was a 19-time All-Star. High grade PSA 10 copies can fetch $2,000 but well-centered examples in average condition still sell for $500-$800. Ripken’s iconic career and the fact it was his true rookie card before he was a star make this Baltimore Oriole a smart long-term investment piece.

1969 Topps Tom Seaver – The 1969 Topps Tom Seaver rookie card is among the most important pitching cards ever printed. Seaver went on to win over 300 games and claim three Cy Young Awards during his illustrious career. PSA 10 copies have sold for over $10,000 in recent years with average conditioned versions still bringing $2,000-$3,000. His status as a first-ballot Hall of Famer and one of the best right-handed hurlers ever make this a must for any collection.

1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson – While not nearly as rare as the Honus Wagner, any vintage card featuring Walter Johnson holds great value. ‘The Big Train’ was arguably the best power pitcher of the deadball era. His iconic 1909-11 T206 card in high grade can bring $15,000. Even well-worn copies in lower grades still sell for $3,000-$5,000 based on his all-time greatness alone. Finding any early 20th century card of Johnson is a great addition to any collection.

1957 Topps Sandy Koufax – Sandy Koufax’s rookie card from his early days with the Brooklyn Dodgers exemplifies one of the most dominant pitching performances in baseball history. Koufax went on to win three Cy Young Awards and two World Series titles for Los Angeles. PSA 10 copies have sold for over $10,000 but average conditioned versions still fetch $3,000-$5,000. His meteoric rise and stellar career make this a key rookie card for any collection.

There are countless other valuable baseball cards that could significantly increase the worth of a collection with top stars like Roberto Clemente, Ted Williams, Rogers Hornsby, and more. The cards highlighted here feature some of the most elite players, rarest production runs, and most visually appealing designs that are likely to retain and increase value over time for serious collectors. With patience and diligence searching card shows, shops, and auction sites, it’s possible to uncover many of these gems at fair prices to boost the long-term value and enjoyment of any baseball card collection.

2021 BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 2021 baseball card season was highly anticipated after the explosion of interest in the hobby during the pandemic in 2020. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting into cards, here are some of the top rookies, parallels, and special inserts to be on the lookout for from the 2021 season.

One of the biggest rookie classes ever featured future stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Juan Soto who all had monster campaigns in 2021 and increased demand for their cards. Arguably the most coveted rookie card this year was Los Angeles Angels phenom Shohei Ohtani. After returning from injury to become the first player since Babe Ruth to star as both a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani’s 2021 Topps Chrome Update Superfractors #US200 and Bowman Chrome 1st refractors are selling for thousands.

Another highly sought after rookie is Seattle Mariners outfielder and AL Rookie of the Year finalist Julio Rodriguez. His Topps Chrome Update refractor parallel #US200 and varied color refractors are gaining value as scouts praise his all-around skills. Fellow top prospects like Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene and Toronto Blue Jays catcher Gabriel Moreno could also break out in 2022 and increase demand for their rookie cards.

Veteran stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. also saw heightened interest after monster years. Tatis’ Topps Update #US200 parallel is one of the most expensive modern cards on the PSA 10 market. The “King of Cards” himself, Mike Trout, has some highly coveted parallels in 2021 Topps like the /23 Green parallel and /5 Orange parallel. Other popular vets include Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Mookie Betts whose /5 Green Parallel is highly sought after.

Bowman Chrome featured the top international prospects in 2021 with Dominican shortstop Cristhian Vaquero and Venezuelan outfielder Carlos Colmenares leading the class. Cards to watch for include Vaquero’s base 1st Bowman Chrome refractor or Colmenarez’s 1st Chrome refractor auto parallel /499. These prospects could rise fast if they sign big deals or have breakout debut seasons in 2022-23.

Some of the most exciting parallels in 2021 Topps Heritage were for Shohei Ohtani ($1 red parallel /25) and Juan Soto ($250 gold parallel /50) which are two of the hardest Heritage inserts to acquire raw, let alone graded. Topps Finest is also known for spectacular refractors and parallels including cards like Acuna’s Downtown and Trout’s Atomic Refractor parallel /50. For vintage design lovers,Topps Gallery featured photographic renditions of today’s stars. Trout and Soto Gallery rookie cards are highly sought after.

2021 Topps Update introduced the incredible Downtown and Superfractor parallel insert sets. Flagship rookie Superfractors for guys like Vaughn, Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr. and Greene can fetch thousands if they blossom into stars. Trout’s /75 Downtown parallel is among the rarest and most beautiful modern chase cards.

Topps Finest featured Atomic Refractor parallels for stars like deGrom, Betts and Tatis /50 which have eye-popping colors and details. Heritage Minors legends cards of Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr. and Eddie Mathews are tough pulls raw and are increasingly valuable over time. Series 2 also introduced the 75 Years of Greatness insert set featuring guys like iconic rookies of Mantle, Mays, Killebrew and McCovey which are popular chase cards. And let’s not forget base cards – a PSA 10 Tatis Update rookie could be worth 5 figures someday!

Panini had fierce competition from Topps in 2021 between their Prizm, Flux, and Immaculate releases going head to head with Topps Flagship, Heritage, Finest and Update. Prizm rookies remain highly sought after for prospects like Greene, Witt Jr., and Moreno though they come at a premium cost raw. Flux featured swatch and auto parallels like Vlad Jr.’s dual patch /10. Immaculate provided ultra-high end hits including 1/1 Trout booklet autos that sell for tens of thousands.

With the intense hype and competition between card companies, prices are higher than ever but so is the opportunity cost of not acquiring cards of emerging stars before they become household names. With the tremendous rookie class and veteran superstars having career seasons, 2021 had no shortage of cards that will shape the collecting landscape for years to come. For collectors just starting out or veterans looking to add to their PC’s, studying the top 2021 rookies, parallels and inserts is key to making savvy acquisitions with long term investment potential as the industry continues booming.

FLEER 90 BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1990 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and sought-after releases from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While the sheer numbers printed made most cards from sets of that time period relatively common, there are still some standout rookie cards, star players, and oddball inserts that have maintained or grown in value over the past 30+ years. For collectors looking to build their vintage baseball collections or make a profitable find at a card show or thrift store, here are some of the top 1990 Fleer cards to keep an eye out for.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1990 Fleer set, Griffey’s rookie is the undisputed star. Even in well-worn condition, it still fetches $50-100 due to his iconic status as “The Kid” and one of the most talented players of his generation. Near mint copies can sell for $500-1000, while a pristine gem mint 10 graded card has sold for over $25,000. Griffey’s rookie is the most sought-after and valuable card from the set.

Frank Thomas Rookie Card: Like Griffey, Thomas went on to have a Hall of Fame career and his rookie card from the 1990 Fleer set is highly desirable as well. Not as expensive as Griffey’s, but still a significant find, with worn copies selling for $20-50 and a PSA 10 potentially reaching $1000-2000. Thomas was a perennial MVP candidate throughout the 1990s so his rookie maintains strong collector interest.

Roberto Alomar Rookie Card: Alomar collected over 3,000 hits in his career and won a Gold Glove at second base ten times between the Blue Jays and Orioles. His rookie card isn’t in the same stratosphere as Griffey or Thomas, but it’s still a respected pull from 1990 Fleer. Expect to get $10-20 for a played copy or $100-200 for a PSA 10.

Nolan Ryan Record Breaker Insert: This oddball insert commemorated Ryan breaking Sandy Koufax’s career strikeout record. Only about one per case was inserted into 1990 Fleer packs, making it an extremely rare pull. High grade copies have sold for over $1000 due to the story behind the card and scarcity compared to the base set.

Bobby Bonilla Record Breaker Insert: Parallel to the Ryan insert, this card honored Bonilla’s 1982 Florida State League single season home run record. Equally as scarce and desirable to vintage baseball collectors as the Ryan version.

Ken Griffey Jr. Bat Piece Relic: Not truly a “card”, but these promotional bat piece relics that could be redeemed by sending in UPCs from 1990 Fleer are very collectible for Griffey enthusiasts. Prices start at $50 for a common piece of the bat and can reach $500-1000 for larger displayable relics.

Ozzie Smith Error Card: A printing plate quirk caused some copies of Ozzie’s card to be missing the photo, creating a much-discussed error card in the set. High grade examples have reached $500 due to their anomalous nature within the release.

Ben McDonald Rookie Card: The first overall pick in the 1989 MLB draft, McDonald showed promise during his career with Baltimore. His rookie isn’t in the same league as Griffey or Thomas value-wise, but still holds significance for Orioles fans and 1990 draft collectors. $10-20 in average condition.

Randy Johnson Rookie Card: “The Big Unit” had already spent a few seasons in the league prior to 1990, but his first Fleer issue is still regarded as his true “rookie” card. Not in huge demand, but a fun card for those who enjoyed his dominance in the 1990s and 2000s. $5-10.

Dennis Martinez Perfect Game Card: Issued after Martinez threw the season’s only perfect game in 1991 as a member of the Montreal Expos, this updated issue card remains a key piece for Expos fans and collectors of perfect game memorabilia. $20-40 based on grade.

Buzzzzz Error Card: Like the Ozzie Smith error, a quirk in production led to some 1990 Fleer cards being printed without images, instead featuring the onomatopoeia “Buzzzzz” where the picture would be. Rare anomalies that can reach $100-200 for collectors interested in oddball printing errors.

While the sheer volume of 1990 Fleer cards printed means most common copies retain only minimal value graded or ungraded, savvy collectors know where to look for the premium rookie cards, stars, and oddball inserts that can still pay off big after 30+ years. The stars of Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas still shine brightest in the set, but collectors would do well to keep an eye out for the other keys as well to round out their vintage baseball collections.

1989 DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 1989 Donruss baseball card set was released at the tail end of the late 1980s baseball card boom. While not as valuable as iconic sets from the same era like 1987 Topps or 1988 Fleer, the ’89 Donruss roster contained many star players and rookie cards that are still attractive to collectors today. With 792 total cards in the base set, there are several notable editions to keep an eye out for when browsing through your collection or at a local card show.

Perhaps the most well-known card from the 1989 Donruss set is the Roger Clemens rookie (#61). As one of the greatest pitchers of all time, there is always strong demand for Clemens’ rookie cards regardless of set. The 1989 Donruss RC has a sharp blue and yellow design that really makes Clemens’ young face stand out. Graded mint condition examples regularly sell for hundreds of dollars on the secondary market. Another highly sought-after rookie is that of slugger Barry Bonds (#235). Though overshadowed early in his career by Mark McGwire’s record-setting home run chase, Bonds would go on to break the all-time home run record. Low-print runs and the star power of these two future Hall of Famers make their ’89 Donruss rookies a priority for collectors.

In addition to rookie standouts, 1991 Donruss features many stars of the late 80s game. One of the most iconic cards is that of Boston Red Sox legend Wade Boggs (#73). Boggs’ classic slashed batting stance and “Chicken Man” persona made him a fan favorite of the era. His card boasts a regal photo and classic gray/red Donruss design. Low-numbered versions often sell in the $100-200 range. Another Red Sox card to watch for is that of superstar pitcher Roger Clemens (#61). By 1989, Clemens was already a two-time Cy Young winner and the ace of Boston’s staff. His stoic on-field intensity pops on his blue and yellow tinted card. Numbered editions can frequently draw $50-75.

Other expensive star cards include sluggers like Mark McGwire (#257) of the Oakland A’s and Chicago Cubs first baseman Andre Dawson (#83). McGwire was well on his way to back-to-back MVP seasons in 1987-88 and his powerful swing is immortalized in a classic action shot on his ’89 card. Dawson followed his 1987 NL MVP with another All-Star campaign the next year. His mid-swing pose and Cubs pinstripes make his Donruss issue a standout. Both these cards frequently command $30-50 in high grades. Moving across sports, basketball phenom Michael Jordan also made his baseball card debut in 1989 Donruss (#416). While not one of the higher valued cards in the set, it remains a fun piece of sports history.

Two decorated veterans with interesting 1989 Donruss cards include Nolan Ryan (#157) and Orel Hershiser (#447). Ryan had just moved to the Texas Rangers in 1989 but remained one of baseball’s most intimidating hurlers well into his 40s. His windswept hair and thousand-yard stare earned him the moniker “The Ryan Express” which this card really captures. Hershiser, meanwhile, was coming off his record-setting 59 consecutive scoreless innings in 1988 which led to World Series MVP honors. His open-mouthed smile and straightforward pose on his Dodger blue card make it a unique piece in collections. Both of these respected veterans have valuable editions that consistently sell in the $30-50 range.

Staying on the Dodgers, one of the biggest visual standouts in the 1989 Donruss set is the card of flamethrower Jay Howell (#461). With his thick handlebar mustache and intense pitching motion, Howell was one of the game’s most recognizable relievers. His card really highlights his memorable look with a dramatic action shot. It’s become quite a popular pull for that reason alone. Howell was also a two-time All-Star with the Dodgers and A’s so high-grade copies often attract $20-30 on the market. Also with the Dodgers in 1989 was slugging first baseman Eddie Murray. Arguably the best hitting first baseman of the 1980s, Murray was chasing career milestones at the time. His slick profile photo and off-centered Dodger logo make his card aesthetically pleasing for collectors.

The 1989 Donruss roster also featured several talented young arms breaking into the league. Notable examples include Bret Saberhagen (#348) of the Royals, who had won the AL Cy Young just two years prior in 1985 at age 21, and Vince Coleman (#420) who broke the NL stolen base record in 1987 with the Cardinals. Both of these speedy athletes got their share of action shots and are fairly affordable for most collectors around the $10-15 mark. Another pitcher card that stands out visually is that of Yankees hurler Steve Adkins (#11). With his leg kick captured mid-motion, Adkins looks to be literally walking through the air. It’s a captivating action pose on an otherwise generic player issue.

While not the most prolific or valuable set from the late 1980s boom, the 1989 Donruss baseball card roster has several true gems that enthusiasts enjoy tracking down. Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, and Wade Boggs rookie cards anchor the high-dollar investments. Meanwhile, iconic veterans like Nolan Ryan and Orel Hershiser pair with exciting rising stars like McGwire, Dawson, and Murray for affordable pieces of cardboard nostalgia. Whether you’re a casual collector or serious investor, the stories and historic images captured by Topps, Fleer, and Donruss in the late 80s will never get old. Happy hunting in the 1989 Donruss paper treasure troves!

LOOK UP AND VALUE COLLECTIBLE BASEBALL CARDS

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History of Baseball Cards

The tradition of collecting baseball cards dates back over 130 years to the late 1800s. The earliest known baseball cards were issued as promotional materials or premiums by tobacco companies to encourage sales. In 1887, the American Tobacco Company issued the first baseball card set featuring individual cards of baseball players on the cigarette packages. Other companies soon followed suit with cards inserted in candies and snacks. These early cards did not have any statistics or biographical information on the back and were produced simply as advertisements.

One of the first major issues of baseball cards as a standalone product was done in 1909 by the American Tobacco Company known as T206. This iconic set featured über-rare Hall of Famers like Honus Wagner. High quality and scarce surviving specimens can fetch hundreds of thousands or even millions at auction today. Demand for baseball cards continued to grow through the early 20th century alongside the increasing popularity of the national pastime. Major card companies in the following decades included Bowman, Fleer, Topps, and Upper Deck. They dominated production from the 1930s through modern day. Sets from the 1950s like Topps are considered the “golden age” in many collectors’ eyes.

Grading and Authenticating Cards

Because of the immense collectible and investment value baseball cards have accumulated over the decades, there became a need for professional authentication and grading services. PSA/DNA and Beckett Grading Services emerged as the undisputed industry leaders in the late 1980s and 1990s. They developed strict numerical grading scales to objectively assess a card’s condition and appeal to potential buyers. A “gem mint” 10 graded card in a protective holder could be worth 10X or more versus a lower graded rough copy. Authentication confirms it was produced legitimately and didn’t undergo doctoring or alterations. This brought greater transparency and standardized pricing to the hobby. Today, the top modern prospects can sell raw for thousands based purely on their future potential. Iconic 1950s cards of legends in pristine shape have broken records selling over $2 million at public auction.

Factors That Determine Value

When researching and establishing a value estimate for a vintage baseball card, there are several key factors collectors and dealers will examine:

Year/Set: Older, historic sets from the pre-war years through the 1950s like T206, Goudey, and Topps are usually the most coveted and valuable. Popular modern sets would be late 1980s/90s versions from brands like Upper Deck, Fleer, and Score. Sets from the 1970s have experienced a resurgence recently.

Player: All-time great Hall of Famers like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Ty Cobb, and Honus Wagner command the highest prices usually. Top young stars on today’s game can also fetch a premium, as can stars of eras past like Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, and Hank Aaron.

Card Number and Variation: In iconic sets the rarer and lower numbered the card, the more valuable generally. Parallel or ‘oddball’ variations within sets hold added appeal too.

Condition/Grade: As described above, condition is critical. A pristine “gem mint” rated card earns a1000%+ premium versus a poorer example card graded lower. Even minor flaws can devalue significantly.

Authenticity: Only genuine cards issued by the original manufacturer hold true collectible status and value. Reproductions have no added worth.

Current Market Trends: Just like for stocks and other collectibles, demand factors into pricing. Certain players or sets may be “hot” at a given moment and see asking prices climb as a results. Inversely markets can cool on others.

Researching Values Online

With so much money involved in the high-end vintage card market, it’s essential to do due diligence when tracking down estimated values. Here are some top online resources:

Price Guides (Beckett, PSA, etc.): These publications track recent sale prices for thousands of cards and issues are published periodically. While not a definitive price, they provide a valuable baseline.

Online Auction Results: Websites like eBay allow searching “sold” listings of specific cards to see exactly what they changed hands for. Only recent sales within the past 6 months provide the most accurate comps generally.

Online Communities: Sites like SportsCardForum and BlowoutCards have very active message boards. Members share values and you can post your card to get opinions from experienced collectors.

Certified Dealers: Reputable full-time dealers like Lelands and Heritage Auctions publish asking prices for consignments and have authentic experts on staff.

Cross-Referencing is Key: The more sources prices can be cross-checked against, the closer you’ll get to the real current market value for a particular rare collectible baseball card in your collection. Condition is still subjective, so professional grading is recommended when true values are high. With diligence, the treasure in your collection could be worth far more than imagined. Care, knowledge and patience are musts when navigating the exciting, lucrative world of vintage sports cards.