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10 MOST VALUABLE 1989 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 baseball card set saw the emergence of young superstars like Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. into the major leagues. While not as lucrative as vintage sets from the 1950s onward, there were still some hugely valuable rookie and star cards produced in the Topps set that year. Here are the 10 most valuable 1989 baseball cards based on PSA 10 Gem Mint condition prices:

Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card – Griffey’s rookie is the undisputed king of the 1989 set. Even in a PSA 9 Near Mint condition, it routinely fetches well over $1000. But a PSA 10 Gem Mint Griffey rookie has been known to sell for astronomical sums. In March 2020, one identical copy sold for a staggering $35,840, setting a new record. Widely considered one of the most iconic and desirable rookie cards ever printed, the Griffey Jr. is beloved for its eye-catching photo and subject’s Hall of Fame career.

Barry Bonds rookie card – Like Griffey, Bonds emerged as a rookie sensation in 1989 and is one of the game’s all-time great hitters. His rookie comes in a close second place for value from the ’89 set. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $10,000, with the average price hovering around $5,000-$7,500 depending on demand. Bonds’ career home run record and numerous MVP awards cement this card as a must-have for collectors.

Nolan Ryan 3000th strikeout card – This ultra-rare serial-numbered parallel card from Topps commemorates Ryan notching his 3000th career strikeout in 1990. Only 10,000 were printed and it’s instantly recognizable amongst fans and investors. High grades fetch astronomical prices, with one PSA 10 recently selling for a whopping $24,000 at auction. Arguably one of the most significant pitching records in MLB history magnifies this card’s appeal.

Ozzie Smith error card – An accidental printing error caused the photo on Smith’s primary card to be incorrectly replaced, making this variant hugely scarce and coveted. Estimates suggest only 200-300 exist in circulation. In Gem Mint condition, they’ve sold for upwards of $10,000. Any error card from a set as popular as 1989 Topps is trophied by collectors.

Nolan Ryan (#20) – Further cementing his status as one of the ’89 set’s most collectible players, a Nolan Ryan stars also cracks the top 5. Portraying the pitcher in action, it remains iconic of his dominance on the mound. PSA 10s have cracked $5000, though most range $2000-$4000 based on a card’s overall condition.

Bo Jackson rookie card – While not quite in the same realm of fame as Griffey/Bonds, Jackson’s short but spectacular MLB/NFL career made him a huge name in the late 80s/early 90s. As such, his rookie carries decent value, with a PSA 10 selling for around $2000-$3000. It’s a key piece of memorabilia from Bo’s record-setting athletic prime.

Randy Johnson rookie card – The Big Unit would go on to dominate for decades after his rookie year of 1989. His card remains fairly coveted by collectors today. PSA 10s have sold for $1500-$2500 depending on bidding wars and overall hobby/vintage sports market fluctuations. A true star from the set.

Gregg Jefferies rookie card – Jefferies was a phenomenally hyped prospect who never fully lived up to expectations long-term. But his impressive rookie stats and tools generated excitement at the time. Higher graded PSA 10s have reached $1200, with most 9s and 10s residing in the $500-$1000 range now.

Ruben Sierra rookie card – An underrated slugger of his era, Sierra put together solid career numbers. His rookie card retains respectable value given his reputation as a quality player, with PSA 10s selling around $800-$1500.

Tom Glavine rookie card – The 300-game winning pitcher rounded out a stellar Hall of Fame career that began as a lights-out starter for the Braves in 1989. Condition-dependent, PSA 10 Glavine rooks have sold for $700-$1200. His modern-era credentials keep him relevant.

The 1989 Topps set gave collectors a trove of future legends, from young Griffey and Bonds to veterans like Ryan and Smith. While no match for the true vintage greats, certain key rookie and star cards have appreciated nicely given 30+ years of demand growth. The Griffey in particular stands out as an icon that routinely obliterates price records. The 1989s offer affordable access to some hugely significant MLB talents during their earliest pro seasons.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS 2019

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The hobby of baseball card collecting saw some enormous prices paid for rare and historically significant cards in 2019. As interest in vintage cards and young star rookies continues to grow, new record prices were set at auctions throughout the year. While mint condition vintage cards from legends like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays will always command top dollar, 2019 showed collectors are also willing to pay massive sums for cards depicting relatively recent stars as well.

The most expensive baseball card sold in 2019 was a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 that went for $2.88 million through Heritage Auctions in January. Mantle is considered the crown jewel of baseball cards due to his iconic career and status as possibly the best switch hitter of all time. Any Mantle rookie or vintage issue consistently shatters records, but this clean PSA 8 example took the cake last year. The buyer chose to break the $2 million mark for any single card to acquire this coveted piece of cardboard showing The Mick as a fresh-faced 20-year-old Brooklyn Dodger farmhand before his legendary Yankees career.

Coming in a close second was another Mantle rookie, but this one was in an even more coveted PSA NM-MT 8.5 grade. Through Goldin Auctions in November, a bidder paid $2.435 million, more than double the previous record, to secure this beautifully preserved introduction to one of baseball’s all-time greats. At this lofty price point, any minor flaws or imperfections could potentially cost a collector hundreds of thousands or even over a million dollars.

A third big ticket Mantle card from 1952 had been anticipated to potentially take the top spot, but “only” achieved $1.32 million through Heritage’s February auction. Still considered in superb condition, this PSA NM-MT 8 example showed that while the market may cool slightly after record-setting sales, Mantle cards in eight-figure territory are here to stay.

Moving beyond the so-called “Holy Grail” of Mantle’s rookie, a 1964 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 9 sold for an impressive $615,000 through Goldin’s October Premier Auction. This post-rookie Mantle issue showed him as a star of the first-place Yankees and demonstrated the enduring value of high-grade examples of cards depicting his playing career prime.

Rounding out the top 5 most expensive modern era cards is a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner that went for $350,000 at Heritage’s January auction. The legendary Wagner is viewed similarly to Mantle as the pinnacle collecting achievement due to his Hall of Fame career and the ultra-rare nature of surviving high-grade examples of his only True Rookie card issue over 100 years old. The price paid for this example in a strong VG 3 reflected both the increasing hunger for vintage pre-war issues and acceptance that lower grades still retain tremendous worth due to rarity.

Further down the top 10 list, two rookies of young star outfielders brought over $200,000 despite their subject players still being in the early stages of Hall of Fame careers. In August, a 2009 Bowman Sterling Mike Trout autograph PSA 10 rookie fetched $225,936 through Goldin. Trout has cemented himself as one of the greatest all-around players of the modern generation, and collectors recognized the potential historic significance—and investment upside—of an intact black parallel autographed rookie issue of his.

Also bucking the trend of multi-million-dollar vintage icons, a 2007 Bowman Chrome Draft Refractors Purple Refractor #66/99 Kris Bryant PSA 10 rookie secured $186,000 at Goldin’s November auction. Bryant emerged as a cornerstone of the World Series-winning Cubs and has proven himself as one of baseball’s most consistent young stars, lending credence to sizable spending on early issues featuring promising talent who pan out as expected. Both the Trout and Bryant cards showed investors the potential for exponential future appreciation when identifying elite young talent early in their careers.

In an ongoing sign that condition is paramount, the 6th most expensive card sold at auction in 2019 was a 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth PSA 8 for $147,640. Ruth revolutionized the home run and reshaped expectations for sluggers en route to becoming arguably the most famous baseball player ever. His lone true freshman issue is always a headliner due to his legendary status, and this example’s impressive state of preservation aided its massive final bid.

The rest of the top 10 consisted primarily of pre-war tobacco cards and post-war stars in top condition. These included an 1899 Phillies Caramel Honus Wagner PSA 6.5 at $129,600, a 1909-11 T206 Chief Bender PSA 8 at $109,600, a 1934 Goudey #53 Dizzy Dean PSA 9 at $105,240, and a 1957 Topps Sandy Koufax PSA 8 at $101,000. As with the Wagner and Ruth rookies, vintage icons like Dean, Koufax and stars of yesteryear continue driving prices sky-high simply due to their age, importance to the sport’s history and the rarity of finding pristine survivors from over a century ago.

In summary, 2019 exemplified that collectors are willing to spend like never before both to procure one-of-a-kind early 20th century cardboard but also invest aggressively in today’s talent. Record prices were set across distinct eras and genres of the card-collecting spectrum, from turn-of-the-century tobacco issues to modern autos and refractors. With interest seemingly growing by the auction, companies like PWCC and Goldin stepping into the market, and online platforms expanding access and exposure to cards, all signs point to the record-setting sales of 2019 as only the beginning of the hobby’s next stratospheric level. Condition clearly is key, but certain talents have properly demonstrated the potential to become investment-grade portfolio additions regardless of set or year if identified precursor to immense on-field success.

THE MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS TODAY

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The hobby of baseball card collecting has grown immensely over the past few decades. As more and more people get involved in seeking out vintage and rare cards, certain singles have skyrocketed in value to become the most expensive trading cards money can buy today. While cards from the late 1800s and very early 1900s will always be the true holy grails due to their extreme scarcity, modern issues from the 1970s and 1980s have also gained tremendous worth for various reasons such as low print runs, star status of the athletes featured, or memorable moments captured on the cardboard. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest pieces of cardboard from the baseball world that could fetch hundreds of thousands, if not over a million dollars at auction.

Headed into any discussion about the most valuable cards, the most obvious choice has to be the iconic 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Widely considered the mona memorabilia item, even surpassing major works of art. The legendary shortstop’s stern face is only featured on approximately 60 of the huge production run Tobacco cards from that era, making each one that surfaces a true spectacle. In pristine condition, which is almost unreal to obtain after over 100 years, a T206 Wagner could sell for well over $2 million. The last PSA NM-MT 8 copy to exchange hands did so privately in 2016 for a staggering $3.12 million.

Not much can compare in rarity and condition standards to the famed Wagner card, so the next most valuable options start appearing in the post-WWII era as the hobby began to balloon. High-numbered Goudey and Play Ball issues aren’t too tough to acquire in decent shape, but finding true gems will cost a pretty penny. A 1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson rookie PSA 8 would probably pull in at least $400,000. Another iconic 1948 Dodger is the Pee Wee Reese, with high-grade versions routinely over $100K. Sticking to the late ‘40s, the 1947-1948 Leaf Ted Williams, 1948 Bowman Stan Musial, and 1948 Bowman Jackie Robinson are all awesome condition pieces that could net $250,000+.

Progressing to the golden age of baseball cards during the 1950s, the flagship Topps sets dominate as most prized. Grading scale trailblazers like PSA have established Population Reports that provide census data indicating how rare true gems actually are, and it is very scarce finds that get six and seven figure price tags. A 1957 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8.5 would probably bring $750,000 at the moment. His 1952 Topps rookie in comparable condition could go for over $1 million. Other 1950s big boy cards that would crack seven digits include a PSA 9 Hank Aaron rookie (1954 Topps), PSA 9 Willie Mays rookie (1951 Bowman), and PSA 8 Ken Griffey Sr. rookie (1957 Topps). Low-population PSA 10 examples sell in auctions every so often privately for sums north of $2 million, solidifying their legacy.

The 1960s are another great era to find valuable modern baseball collectibles. Those years saw huge growth and innovation from Topps as they introduced color photos alongside classic designs. While raw copies in decent shape are still accessible for the average collector, investment-grade specimens are more exclusive. A 1965 Topps Sandy Koufax PSA 8.5 could command $150,000 today. 1961 Topps Roger Maris after breaking the single season home run record moves for $125K in a PSA 8. But what has become the poster child for 1960s cards is the 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie, with PSA 8 copies often selling for more than $50,000. Thanks to his awe-inspiring pitching longevity throughout the 70s/80s/90s, his first Bowman and Topps issues retain immense demand.

The 1970s neatly ties the vintage and modern eras of the hobby together. Topps continued setting standards while competitors like Fleer emerged on the scene. Perhaps it was exposure to color television broadcasts or an improving American economy, but collecting cards became an nationwide craze. Consequently, many 1970s stars do not have the same rarity or price tag as their 1950s forebearers. That said, special rare varieties or unusually high-grade examples still break records. One card that is a perennial expensive heavyweight is the 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth. Fewer than a dozen are known to exist in any condition, so even low-grade copies pull seven-figure monies. Similarly, rare 1969 Topps Nolan Ryan variations with the incorrect “Rip Repulski” name sell to niche collectors pursuing quirks at well over $100,000.

After a lull through the late 1980s and 1990s, modern memorabilia took off in this millennium driven by the internet, social media, and financial collectibles boom. Accordingly, certain ultra-modern baseball cards from the 2000s+ have also gained immense worth, despite only being printed decades ago rather than generations. Arguably the two biggest risers emerge from the early 2000s rookie classes – the 2001 Bowman Chrome Miguel Cabrera & the 2003 Topps Chrome Jiminy Trout. High-grade Cabrera and Trout rookies now pull in $50,000+ for PSA 9/10. But not just stars from yesteryear maintain their value – recent legends still in their prime also have their first cards achieve expensive status. A 2007 Bowman Paper Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 10 sold in 2020 for $46,000. It’s a true testament to ongoing nostalgia and investment in baseball’s future that modern cards from within recent memory gain stature equivalent to historic relics from over a century ago.

The prices constantly fluctuate for rare and high-grade vintage baseball memorabilia. New auction records are set each year as more collectors join the billion-dollar industry. Whereas the legendary 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner will likely always remain THE most valuable card, a wider variety of later 20th century issues have emerged as equals in collectible worth. Condition sensitivity makes true gem specimens scarcer than the rarest of autos or one-of-a-kind artwork. Those able to track down and preserve precious cardboard treasures from players like Mantle, Mays, Aaron, Koufelix, Griffey Jr. and beyond will possess assets able to be liquidated for breathtaking sums. As long as America cherishes its national pastime, the quest to collect and conserve its best trading cards will surely persist.

1990 CMC BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1990 CMC baseball card set was unique in that it was one of the first sets released after the MLB players strike that cancelled the 1990 baseball season. With no games being played, card companies had to get creative with the photography and designs for that year’s rookie cards. While it lacked some of the big star rookies of other years due to the strike, there were still several valuable and collectible cards included in the 288-card set. Here’s a look at some of the most valuable and sought after 1990 CMC baseball cards:

Ken Griffey Jr. – The “Junior” rookie card is arguably the crown jewel of the 1990 CMC set. Griffey was already being hailed as a future superstar and living up to the hype in his early MLB seasons prior to the strike. His sweet left-handed swing and golden boy good looks made him enormously popular among fans of all ages. While production numbers on Griffey rookie cards were high across several card brands in 1989, the CMC version has consistently been one of the toughest to acquire in high grade. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $10,000 in recent years. Even well-centred PSA 9 copies can fetch $3,000-$4,000. Griffey’s iconic pose and the card’s classic design have cemented it as one of the most valuable modern rookie cards ever produced.

Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt” announced his arrival in the majors in 1990 and did nothing but mash from day one of his career. His rookie card in the CMC set showcases Thomas swinging away with his trademark wide batting stance. Like Griffey, Frank Thomas rookies were produced in high numbers overall. What makes the CMC version more key is that it carries the additional cache of being the lone Frank Thomas card from his true rookie season in 1990 after the players’ strike. PSA 10s have sold for over $2,000.

Roberto Alomar – Already an established star by 1990, Alomar’s smooth fielding and line drive swing made him a fan favorite. The CMC Alomar card features a close-up headshot photo of the second baseman. Low-print Alomar rookie cards from 1988 Bowman and Topps are out of reach price wise for most collectors. As a result, the 1990 CMC version is one of the more affordable ways to own an early Alomar card. Graded PSA 9 copies can be acquired for under $100, though PSA 10s will set you back over $400.

Nolan Ryan – By 1990, Ryan had firmly cemented his status as a living legend with over 4,000 career strikeouts to his name. Any card showing the Express mowing down hitters is a classic. The CMC card has Ryan in a leg kick windup pose, with his famous jersey number “30” prominently displayed. High grade examples have endured due to Ryan’s immense popularity. A PSA 10 has sold for over $500 in recent auction.

Roberto Kelly – Coming off an impressive rookie season split between the Padres and Cubs in 1989, Kelly entered 1990 with big expectations. An ankle injury hampered him that year but he rebounded to have a productive career. His CMC rookie card, like Frank Thomas’s, serves as the lone card from Kelly’s true rookie season. The design has Kelly striding towards the batter’s box and is one of the more visually appealing cards in the set. With a PSA 10 recently selling for over $450, this card has experienced rising values in recent years.

Shawn Abner – A highly-touted prospect in the Astros organization, Abner was expected to be among the next wave of young stars to emerged in the early 90s. Arm and shoulder injuries derailed his career before it really took off. His rookie card in the 1990 CMC set has him gripping a bat with an intense expression. It’s one of the more iconic and aesthetically designed photos in the set. With such a short big league career, the card has taken on greater mystique over the decades. PSA 10s have sold for nearly $350.

Ken Hill – Hill broke out in 1990 with the Rangers, going 13-6 with a 2.89 ERA before the strike. His CMC rookie card is one of the scarcer cards in the set with relatively low print runs. Graded mint PSA 10 copies are difficult to come by, with one recently attracting a winning auction price of over $175. Even in PSA 9 condition they can bring $50-$75 due to Hill’s solid production and the card’s very low pop reports in top grades.

Roberto Hernandez – Forever etched in baseball lore as the pitcher who recorded the FIRST 20-strikeout game in modern MLB history in 1990, Hernandez’s CMC rookie card has developed quite a following. Sporting a sweet high leg kick on the mound, the card oozes 1990s baseball nostalgia. While production numbers aren’t as low as some others on this list, top graded copies in PSA 10 have still managed to surpass $100 at auction.

Tom Pagnozzi – While not a household name, Pagnozzi put together a respectable 11-year career catching for the Cardinals and Angels after being acquired by St. Louis in 1986. His 1990 CMC rookie card depicts him behind the plate wearing his Cardinals gear. With very low CMC card production runs, PSA 10 examples have sold for over $70 due to their scarcity and Pagnozzi’s enduring popularity among Cardinals fans and collectors from that era.

Honorable Mentions: Dennis Cook (Astros rookie reliever), Mark Williamson (Rangers pitching prospect), Juan González (Rookie of the Year runner-up), Jeff Tackett (young Reds outfielder), Doug Jones (Flame-throwing Indians closer).

While lacking some true superstar rookies, the 1990 CMC baseball card set contains several scarce and visually appealing cards that have grown in value and intrigue over the years. For modern collectors, it offers a glimpse into the generation of players that would have starred in the 1990 season had it not been cut short by labor issues. High quality examples of stars like Griffey, Frank Thomas, and Roberto Alomar continue to be widely sought. But there are also values to be found in lesser known rookie cards that are tougher to grade well like Ken Hill, Roberto Kelly and Tom Pagnozzi. For nostalgia and affordability, the 1990 CMC set provides plenty of worthwhile cards to chase.

MOST BEAUTIFUL BASEBALL CARDS

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When collectors and fans think of some of the most aesthetically pleasing and visually stunning baseball cards ever made, several iconic cards inevitably come to mind. Behind many of these gorgeous specimens of cardboard excellence lies remarkable stories, historical significance, impeccable condition, and eye-catching artwork and photography that have made them legendary in the hobby. While beauty is subjective, there are certain vintage and modern baseball cards that are widely considered some of the most beautiful ever produced due to their artistic merit and collector value. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the frontrunners for the title of the most beautiful baseball cards.

We’ll start in the earliest days of the sport with one of the first major sets – the 1909-1911 T206 tobacco card series. The immense size of the cards at 2.5” x 3.5” allowed for elaborate lithographic images that were works of art. Some of the most exquisite depictions came from the brush of pioneer baseball card artist Frederic “Fritz” Memken. His portraits of Honus Wagner and Eddie Plank are extravagantly detailed and bring such life and character to the players. In gem mint condition, the intricacy and vibrancy of the colors just sing off the card surface. Many consider Wagner’s iconic T206 one of if not the most visually beautiful card ever made due to Memken’s masterful portrait. The history, rarity, and artistry make it the Holy Grail for collectors.

Jumping ahead several decades, the vast 1956 Topps set featured another artistic masterwork – the reverse side image found on all cards, known as the “barber pole” design. Designed by art director Sy Berger, the stripes of various team colors wrapping diagonally across the card front became iconic. In high grade with rich colors intact, the intricate pattern remains hypnotizing to the eye. Another ’50s Topps standout was the photograph selection for Willie Mays’ rookie card from that same ’56 set. Captured mid-swing with the crispest image quality, it perfectly conveys the essence of the Say Hey Kid at the peak of his abilities. Few cards better personify their subject.

Topps held the MLB license throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, so they had no real competition during baseball’s Golden Era. But in 1967 that finally changed with the entrance of a formidable new competitor called Sportscard Ltd., later known as Sportflics. Their cards truly pushed the boundaries with creative design concepts, revolutionary photography, and flashy color schemes. Perhaps none stood out more than their Mickey Mantle card from 1967. A dramatic action shot shows the Mick swinging fiercely, with a bright orange-red background complementing his intense effort perfectly. When combined with its superior image quality compared to Topps, it’s no wonder the Mantle Sportflics rookie became the standout card of the short-lived but impactful set.

Speaking of creative concepts, the infamous 1981 Fleer sticker cards broke the mold by quite literally being peel-and-stick collectibles rather than traditional cardboard. Of all the innovative designs in the set, none mesmerized like the Nolan Ryan card which featured a striking portrait against a bright red-orange background. With its hypnotic triangular design and Ryan’s intense stare, it stood as a work of artistic baseball card genius. The sticker factor only added to the coolness factor among collectors. Unopened examples with the sticker still intact in mint condition command high bids to this day because it perfectly captured the magic of the era.

In the modern collectibles market, it would be remiss not to acknowledge some of the finest photography found in premium and high-end products today. Panini’s 2010 National Treasures football cards sparked a renewed interest in big money collectibles with artifacts and memorabilia, but some of their later National Treasures baseball releases have achieved the pinnacle of aesthetics too. Standout rookie cards like Mike Trout’s from 2014 National Treasures feature mesmerizing action photography seemingly suspended in time, set against radiating backgrounds reminiscent of stained glass art. And nothing matches the elegance of SGC-graded National Treasures “Gold” parallels encased in genuine 24K gold that sparkle brilliantly like fine jewels.

Upper Deck has crafted some legendary looking cards as the other premier manufacturer alongside Panini in today’s market. Their 2013 Tier One release upped the ante significantly with risograph printing that provides dazzling colors and textures. Bryce Harper’s rookie from that set conveying the thrill of a walk-off home run might just be the most cinematically beautiful modern card ever released. 2007 Ultimate Collection took luxury concepts to new heights with exquisite embossed foil and script lettering giving Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams cards an heirloom feel. And nothing says “wow factor” quite like the ornate designs of high-number parallels found in sets like 2012 Hobby Exclusive Featuring refractor and black diamond versions that look more like collector’s art than mere sports cards.

There are countless other beautifully crafted cards throughout history that could make a case as the most aesthetically pleasing, such as George Brett’s classic 1979 Topps design, Nolan Ryan’s 1972 Topps Action or 1984 Topps Traded, Rickey Henderson’s electrifying 1984 Donruss rookie, or any of the vintage illustrative cards from Bowman, Play Ball and others before photography took over the hobby. Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder, but most collectors can agree that the exemplary samples highlighted here featuring innovative concepts, remarkable photography and illustration demand recognition among the most aesthetically stunning baseball cards ever produced. Their beauty is what makes them so iconic and helps drive their enduring collectibility and value among enthusiasts today.

MOST EXPENSIVE BO JACKSON BASEBALL CARDS

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Vincent Edward “Bo” Jackson is considered one of the greatest athletic stars of all time due to his impressive success in both baseball and football. While his NFL career was cut short due to a devastating hip injury in 1991, Jackson left an indelible mark on baseball card collecting before his baseball career ended in 1994 as well. Several of Bo Jackson’s rookie and prized baseball cards have broken auction records and rank among the most valuable cards ever sold. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the priciest and most sought-after Bo Jackson baseball cards.

The crown jewel of Bo Jackson’s baseball card collection and perhaps the single most valuable baseball card ever sold is his 1986 Topps Traded rookie card (#126). In August 2021, a PSA Gem Mint 10 graded copy of this ultra-rare card was auctioned off by PWCC and shattered all-time auction records by selling for an astounding $657,250. At the time, it was the highest price ever paid for a baseball card in history. Only 125 copies of this card were printed, making it one of the true holy grails for any serious baseball card collector. The card captures Jackson in his Seattle Mariners uniform during his short stint in their farm system before being traded to the Kansas City Royals. Its extreme rarity and subject’s iconic status as a dual-sport star cemented this ’86 Topps Traded card as the new king of the hobby.

Another immensely valuable Bo Jackson rookie is his 1989 Upper Deck Baseball #1 card. Only about 50 of these cards were ever produced, and they are considered the truest rookie cards for Jackson since they feature him as a member of the Kansas City Royals, the team he debuted with in the majors in 1986. A PSA 9 copy of this ultra-rare rookie sold for $273,500 in a February 2021 Goldin Auctions sale. Even raw ungraded versions in Excellent-Mint condition commonly sell for six figures due to the extreme scarcity of these Upper Deck cards. The low print run and high demand from collectors looking to own an actual Bo Jackson rookie places this as the second most valuable card in his collection.

Other major cards that routinely break records include Jackson’s 1989 Topps Traded Baseball card (#91T), which is viewed as one of his main “action shot” cards depicting him playing for the Royals. A PSA 10 “Gem Mint” copy sold for $99,000 in January 2022, demonstrating the immense worth of high-grade versions of this popular card. Likewise, his 1989 Topps Baseball #1 rookie card is revered by collectors despite a much larger print run compared to the Upper Deck issue. A PSA 10 sold for $72,300 in October 2021, again proving pristine graded examples will fetch huge sums. These action-packed cards portraying Jackson at the height of his baseball abilities never seem to lose value no matter the economic climate.

Aside from rookie cards, collectors also covet Jackson’s finest collection cards highlighting his exceptional in-game feats. His 1989 Topps Traded Football/Baseball multi-sport subset featuring him in a football

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1967

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The year 1967 saw one of the most iconic sets in the history of baseball card collecting hit the shelves—the Topps base set. Containing 792 cards, the 1967 Topps set featured future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax in their baseball card primes. Given its large size and star power, it’s no surprise that some of the most valuable vintage baseball cards hail from that 1967 Topps release.

One of the most coveted and valuable cards from 1967 is the Mike Trout rookie card. Of course, Trout wasn’t a rookie in 1967 since he wasn’t even born until 1987. The card of Angels outfielder Mike Trout from the 2012 Topps Series 1 set has become one of the top baseball cards on the vintage and modern market in recent years. PSA 10 gem mint examples of Trout’s dazzling rookie card regularly sell for over $10,000 given his status as arguably the best active player in baseball currently. It’s very rare to find high-grade Trout rookie cards still available for purchase.

As for true 1967 rookie cards, one of the key standouts is the Rod Carew rookie. Carew went on to win 7 batting titles in his Hall of Fame career that saw him hit .328 across 19 seasons played primarily with the Minnesota Twins. High-grade PSA 8 or above examples of Carew’s sprightly rookie card from the 1967 Topps set routinely sell for $5,000 or more today. Given his hitting prowess winning multiple batting titles, Carew proved himself as one of the best pure hitters of his era, making his rookie card an important piece of history.

Another offensive dynamo with a valuable 1967 rookie card is Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson. Mr. October came onto the scene with the Athletics and went on to post historic playoff performances for the Yankees teams he helped win multiple World Series rings for in the 1970s. In near-mint PSA 8 or better condition, Jackson’s smiley 1967 Topps rookie commands prices up to $3,000. His notable accomplishments and playoff heroics as one of baseball’s true superstars post-1967 only add to the card’s investment grade appeal decades later.

Pitchers can have valuable rookie cards too of course, and one of the most significant arms from the 1967 Topps set belongs to Hall of Fame fireballer Nolan Ryan. Over the course of 27 seasons, Ryan racked up a record 7 no-hitters and 5,714 strikeouts—both records that still stand today. His unique combination of longevity and all-time pitching dominance make his 1967 Topps rookie quite the trophy card for vintage baseball card collectors. An investment-grade PSA 8 brings around $2,500, reflecting Ryan’s iconic status as one of the greatest pitchers who ever lived.

Other pitchers with costly 1967 rookies include future 300-game winner Don Sutton. The sturdy righty anchored pitching staffs for the Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, Athletics, and Angels across his 23 seasons. High-end examples of his fresh-faced 1967 card in PSA 8+ condition reach prices north of $1,500. Also reputed is Fernando Valenzuela’s rookie, whose dynamic 1981 rookie campaign helped reinvigorate baseball’s popularity in Los Angeles. A PSA 8 of “Fernandomania’s” 1967 issue can top $1,000 given his cultural impact.

Beyond rookies of future stars, the 1967 Topps set also features investment-quality cards of established all-time greats. Perhaps the most big-ticket card from the entire release belongs to the legendary Mickey Mantle. Even in the twilight of his career depicted in the 1967 issue, Mantle’s mythical status as one of baseball’s true heroes pushes PSA 8 copies into the $3,000+ territory. Fellow Yankees Clipper Joe DiMaggio’s similarly graded ’67 issue isn’t far behind at $2,000-plus given his Triple Crown exploits earlier in his career in the 1930s and 1940s.

In summation, the 1967 Topps release holds up today as one of the richest yearly sets for finding impactful vintage cards of all-time greats – both their rookie issues as future Hall of Famers like Carew and Ryan as well as classic shots of established icons like Mantle and DiMaggio. For savvy collectors, valuable 1967 cards represent an appealing intersection of performance, history, and the intrinsic appeal found in some of baseball’s most noteworthy talents captured early or late in their playing days. The 1967 season thus lives on through these engaging cardboard relics decades later.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FLEER 1989

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The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic releases in the history of the hobby. While it did not feature any rookies who went on to the Hall of Fame, there are still several cards from the set that have become enormously valuable due to rarity, condition, and player performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1989 Fleer baseball cards.

Perhaps the most well-known card from the 1989 Fleer set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Fleer had exclusive rights to rookie cards in 1989 and Griffey was one of the game’s brightest young stars, making his rookie cards highly desirable. However, Griffey’s Fleer rookie is not the most valuable due to condition and printing issues that Fleer had. The image on many Griffey rookies has fading or is off-centered. But a Griffey rookie in near-mint to mint condition can still fetch thousands of dollars. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Griffey rookie recently sold for over $25,000, showing it remains one of the set’s most popular cards.

Another valuable rookie from the 1989 Fleer set is the Gregg Jefferies card. Jefferies was a highly-touted prospect who had a few decent seasons but failed to live up to expectations. Still, his rookie card is a key piece for set collectors and has also held value relatively well compared to the Griffey due to a smaller printing run. A PSA 10 Jefferies rookie recently sold for over $2,000, with raw near-mint copies also reaching the triple-digit range.

Beyond rookies, one of the most iconic and valuable cards from the 1989 Fleer set is the Nolan Ryan Express card. Featuring a sharp photo of Ryan’s famous over-the-top windup, this card became hugely popular with collectors. It also captured one of the game’s all-time greats at the peak of his historic career. The Ryan Express card routinely tops most valuable lists for the 1989 Fleer set. A PSA 10 recently crossed the $10,000 threshold in an auction, but even well-centered raw near-mint copies can demand $2,000-$3,000.

Two other superstar cards that have gained significant value from the 1989 Fleer set are the Kirby Puckett and Ozzie Smith issues. Puckett was in the midst of establishing himself as perhaps the best hitter in the American League throughout the late 1980s. A PSA 10 Puckett sold for over $6,000 last year. Meanwhile, Ozzie Smith was arguably the best defensive shortstop of all-time. His smooth, backhand flipping motion was perfectly captured on his 1989 Fleer issue. High-grade Smith cards now sell for $1,000-$2,000, reflecting his Hall of Fame career and popularity.

Rarity also plays a role in some other valuable 1989 Fleer cards. For example, the Nolan Ryan Astros insert card was only given out at a single ballpark raffle promotion. As a true limited issue within the set, ungraded examples have sold for well over $1,000. The Darryl Strawberry Traded card, showing him with the Dodgers after being dealt from the Mets, is also quite scarce. Well-centered examples command $500-$800 due to the odd nature of the image within the set.

While it lacks rookie cards that reached legendary status, the 1989 Fleer baseball set nevertheless contains several key pieces that have become tremendously valuable long-term investments. Key factors like rarity, star power of featured players such as Griffey, Ryan, Puckett and Smith, and even unique photographic choices have all contributed to strong secondary market demand for top condition copies. For dedicated collectors, finding high-grade versions of these most valuable 1989 Fleer cards can take a significant effort and expense. But they remain iconic representations of both the players and the hobby itself.

1980’s MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1980s was a transformative decade for the baseball card hobby. While the hobby had existed for decades prior, it was during this era that the culture surrounding collecting really began to take off. Major companies like Topps, Donruss and Fleer were pumping out vast quantities of new sets each year, fueled by both an increased interest in sports memorabilia as well as wider distribution and availability of cards. Meanwhile, the stars of that generation like Mike Schmidt, Nolan Ryan and Pete Rose achieved new levels of popularity and fame. This perfect storm of factors led to skyrocketing prices for the most coveted and scarce rookie cards and memorabilia from the 1980s that still hold immense value today. Here are some of the most expensive baseball cards from that memorable decade:

1983 Topps Traded Fred McGriff Rookie Card (BGS 9): One of the true holy grails for 1980s collectors is the ultra-short printed Fred McGriff rookie card from the 1983 Topps Traded set. Only 25 copies of McGriff’s rookie were produced, making it incredibly rare from the start. High grade examples have cracked the six-figure barrier, with a BGS 9 copy selling for an astounding $361,297 back in 2016. Even beaten and played copies can fetch $10,000+. Finding any McGriff rookie in a person’s collection would likely be enough to fund a nice retirement.

1986 Fleer Larry Walker Rookie Card (PSA 10): Canadian slugger Larry Walker made his MLB debut in 1989 but had his rookie card printed in the 1986 Fleer set in preparation. His abundance of talent was evident even this early. Just 900 copies of his rookie were issued, of which only a small fraction remain in PRISM 10 condition. A perfect PSA 10 copy from 2015 holds the all-time record for highest price paid for a Walker card at $191,000. This remains among the most valuable players from the 80s era.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (PSA 10): Even people who know nothing about cards are familiar with The Kid and his iconic Upper Deck rookie. Considered one of if not the most aesthetically pleasing designs ever, Griffey’s rookie took the hobby to new heights upon its release. High grade copies routinely sell for five figures, with a perfect PSA 10 example breaking the bank at $266,719 back in 2016. Griffey was a true once in a generation talent who also had arguably the most aesthetically perfect rookie card design ever created. No collection is complete without this landmark piece of cardboard.

1980 Topps Traded Nolan Ryan (PSA 8): To many, Nolan Ryan epitomizes the sheer dominance and excitement of 80s baseball. His 1981 record setting season saw him strike out 383 batters. His iconic 1970s Topps rookies are also very valuable, but his early 80s cards gained prominence as he entered his late career prime. His 1980 Topps Traded card, with its crisp photo and minimal design, is highly sought after by Ryan collectors. High end PSA 8 copies often go for $30,000+, a fitting price for such an iconic player.

1980 Topps Mike Schmidt (PSA 8): Much like Nolan Ryan, Mike Schmidt came to represent the sturdy sluggers that powered Phillies teams to multiple pennants in the 1970s and 80s. His 1980 Topps regular issue card remains a standout, with its player portrait shot and classic look embodying the best of that era. In high grades, it can rival or surpass plenty of true “rookie cards.” The combination of his fame and on-field production results in steady five figure prices for PSA 8 copies of this iconic Schmidt.

1987 Fleer Frank Thomas Rookie Card (PSA 10): While he had previous cards in 1986 sets, 1987 was the true birth year for Frank Thomas’s Hall of Fame career. His rookie card was in that year’s Fleer set, featuring one of best posed images of any modern player card. Like other stars from the late 80s, finding high grade Thomas rookies is a difficult challenge. But the reward for a perfect PSA 10 example is usually over $30,000. Between his prolific 20 year career and this tremendously popular design, it’s easy to see why.

1986 Topps Traded José Canseco Rookie Card (PSA 10): One of the most recognizable rookies of the entire decade, Canseco embodied the steroid era before it began. His rookie card came in the traded set due to debuting late in 1986. Like most stars today, his 1986 Donruss rookies also gained fame. Finding a PSA 10 Topps Traded copy is as difficult as locating a perfect vintage Wagner. Add in his cultural impact and six-figure prices for ungraded copies still arise 30+ years later. Just another example of how stars from this period hold enduring value.

1986 Fleer Update Ben McDonald Rookie Card (PSA 10): The story of Ben McDonald is one of great potential never fully realized due to injury issues. But those who followed his early career know his dominance as an Orioles’ starter right out of the gate. A case could be made that his ‘86 Fleer Update rookie is more scarce than even Ken Griffey’s UP card. The update sets had much lower print runs, and McDonald’s raw talent made this an early key rookie to chase. Grading 10s become true untouchable pieces, with prices upwards of $20,000 regularly.

1988 Fleer Darryl Strawberry (PSA 10): Between his electric early days as a Met and career resurgence years later as a Yankee, Darryl Strawberry produced plenty of memorable cardboard. But perhaps none resonate quite like the glorious high number issue from 1988 Fleer. Featuring the perfect balance of vibrant colors and an iconic Strawberry pose, it stands out as the clear finest of his entire collection. Pricing often reflects that sentiment too, with mint PSA 10 examples regularly pushing north of $10,000 in today’s market.

While the 1980s gave birth to so many awe-inspiring cardboard stars, finding high grade examples of the true stars from that decade almost always breaks the bank due to their universal appeal across multiple generations of collectors. Between the perfect storm of increased production, emerging memorabilia market and all-time great talents, it’s easy to see why these select cards rightfully command pinnacle pricing and cachet decades later on.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 70S AND 80s

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The 1970s and 1980s were a golden era for baseball card collecting. Many hall of famers were still actively playing at the peak of their careers during this time period. As a result, cards from these decades featuring star players often command big money from collectors today. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable and sought after baseball cards from the 1970 and 1980s.

One of the most iconic and valuable cards is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. This card predates the 1970s/80s timeframe. During the late 70s/early 80s, Mantle was still widely considered the best switch hitter of all time and one of the greatest players ever. His 1973 Topps card, featuring Mantle in a Yankees uniform at the end of his career, has grown substantially in value. High graded PSA 10 examples often fetch over $100,000 due to Mantle’s legendary status.

Speaking of legendary Yankees, the 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson ” Mr. October” card is highly coveted. Jackson cemented his postseason hero status with the Yankees in 1977, smashing three home runs in World Series game 6 off three different pitching changes by the Dodgers. High end PSA 10 copies of this coveted card have sold for close to $50,000. Another Yankee great, the 1976 Topps Thurman Munson rookie card also sells for big money, around $15,000 in top condition.

National League stars were well represented in the ’70s as well. The 1973 Topps Hank Aaron card holds extra significance as it was Aaron’s last season before breaking Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for about $25,000. The 1979 Topps Willie Stargell “Pops” card is also extraordinarily valuable in top grades due to Stargell’s leadership of the “We Are Family” Pittsburgh Pirates World Series teams. A PSA 10 recently changed hands for close to $20,000.

Moving to the 1980s, rookie cards began taking on greater importance as collectors looked to obtain stars from the beginning of their careers. Arguably the biggest ’80s star and one of the most valuable rookie cards ever is the 1984 Topps Traded Wade Boggs card. Boggs won five batting titles in the 1980s and this scarce traded set rookie has sold for an astonishing $100,000+ in pristine condition. Likewise, the high end of the market for mint 1985 Topps Roger Clemens and 1987 Topps Barry Bonds rookie cards is around $50,000-$60,000 due to their all-time greatness.

Two extremely valuable ’80s Dodger cards are the 1981 Topps Fernando Valenzuela rookie and the 1986 Topps Kirk Gibson “Walk-Off” World Series hero card. An iconic moment captured on a baseball card, high grade Gibson cards consistently surpass $20,000 at auction. The Fernandomania rookie captures one of the most unlikely Rookie of the Year seasons ever and can reach $15,000 PSA 10. Also hailing from the west coast, the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie is rightfully legendary. Even well-circulated mid-grade copies sell for over $1,000 today.

On the whole, the 1970s and 1980s hold some of the most iconic and cherished baseball cards ever created. With legends like Mantle, Aaron, Jackson, and Ripken still playing alongside emerging talents like Boggs, Clemens, and Griffey Jr. the investment potential remains quite lucrative for high quality specimens from this era. While the cards may never reach the stratospheric prices fetched by their early ’50s counterparts, condition-sensitive premium examples will likely continue gaining value for astute collectors and investors.