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MOST VALUABLE MODERN ERA BASEBALL CARDS

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The modern baseball card era began in the late 1980s and 1990s as interest in collecting sports cards resurged. During this period, advancements in printing technology allowed for highly detailed and colorful cards to be mass produced. Several rookies emerged who would go on to have legendary careers, making their rookie cards extremely desirable among collectors. Below are some of the most valuable modern era baseball cards that routinely sell for thousands, and in some cases tens of thousands, of dollars when high graded examples cross the auction block.

1992 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. #1 – Widely considered the crown jewel of the modern era, Griffey’s iconic rookie card skyrocketed in value in the late 1990s as his Hall of Fame caliber career developed. PSA 10 examples now easily top $10,000 due to his status as one of the great five tool players ever. Even well-centered PSA 9s fetch over $3,000. What makes this card so iconic is that it was produced during the peak of hobby’s early 90s boom and perfectly captures Griffey in his prime Seattle Mariners days.

1994 SP Derek Jeter #1 – As arguably the greatest Yankee of all-time and one of the faces of baseball in the late 90s-2000s, Jeter’s rookie is extremely valuable in high grades. PSA 10 Jeter SPs are worth around $7,000-$8,000 currently. His 1994 Topps rookie, while more available, still reaches over $1,000 in PSA 10. Both capture the start of an exemplary career that saw him when 5 World Series in New York.

1989 Bowman Bonds #1 – Before his tainted record breaking home run chase, Barry Bonds was one of the game’s rising stars as a Pittsburgh Pirate. His rookie card skyrocketed in value in the late 90s/2000s as he neared the single season HR record. PSA 10s now sell over $6,000 due to his unmatched on base skills and power numbers at his offensive peak. While tainted by PED allegations, this card is a must-have for any Bond’s PC.

1991 Upper Deck Griffey Jr. #1 – What makes this card so highly coveted compared to other Griffey rookies is that it was from Upper Deck’s hugely popular inaugural sets in 1991 that pushed the hobby into new frontiers. The photography and production values were unlike anything collectors had seen before. PSA 10s now sell for over $4,000 as the card that kicked off Junior’s legendary career during the hobby’s booming early 90s period.

1992 Pinnacle Chipper Jones #1 – As arguably the greatest switch hitter of all time and longtime Atlanta Braves franchise player, Chipper Jones’ rookie makes a strong case as the most valuable non-Griffey or Bonds card of the early 90s. PSA 10s sell for over $3,500. He was one of the truly iconic players of the late 90s-2000s who came up through the Braves system generating tremendous fan loyalty. This captured the start of one of the best third basemen in MLB history.

2003 Bowman Chrome Miguel Cabrera #109 – The Miggy Cabrera rookie is highly desired because it featured his first comp card as a highly touted young prospect in the leagues before his breakout season in 2004. PSA 10s eclipse $3,000 due to his status as a 500+ HR slugger and one of the elite hitters of his generation. While not his “true” Topps flagship rookie, this card established him as a can’t-miss prospect on the cusp of stardom and is iconic from the height of hobby’s early 2000s boom.

1994 Upper Deck Collector’s Choice Chipper Jones #265 – This parallel card was the equivalent of an ultra-rare short print back in 1994. It perfectly captured Chipper ascending to the bigs as a five tool stud for the Atlanta Braves. In high grades, PSA 10s have sold for over $4,000 making it one of the most valuable non-rookie Chipper cards. The parallel Collector’s Choice inserts were a huge collector driven sets within the already desirable Upper Deck brand that year.

1996 Metal Universe Alex Rodriguez #45 – Produced during the height of the mid-90s sports card boom, these Metal Universe parallels were some of the most collectible and sought after inserts in the hobby. A-Rod’s is highly desired since he was one of the most hyped prospects ever who lived up to expectations as a superstar shortstop. PSA 10s sell for $2,500+ even though not his true Topps flagship rookie due to its rare parallel status. It’s an iconic relic from 1990s hobby history.

1995 Select Derek Jeter #56 – Although not his true 1994 rookie card, this parallel insert captured Jeter’s breakthrough 1994 season which established him as a future Hall of Famer. Select sets were highly engineered inserts within the flagship brands like Topps and Fleer that year. PSA 10 Jeter Selects routinely sell for over $2,000, cementing this card as a must-have for any Yankee PC. It rode the wave of Jetermania in the late 90s hobby boom before he cemented his legend.

2003 Topps Chrome Adrian Gonzalez #234 – While not his official Topps regular season debut, this card established Gonzalez as a can’t-miss Padres prospect before his big breakout season in 2004 which led to four All-Star appearances and a World Series title. As a prolific power hitter who spent a decade anchoring lineups, PSA 10s sell for over $1,500 due to his standout career. While fleeting as a Padre, this rode the early 2000s Chrome boom and established A-Gon’s superstar potential.

1996 Finest Refractors Kenny Lofton #141 – Parallel refractors exploded in popularity throughout the mid-late 90s as hobby innovation progressed. Lofton, while not a true “superstar,” was a perennial All-Star and one of the best leadoff hitters and all-around players of the 90s. PSA 10 Finest Refractors for Kenny Lofton sell consistently for over $1,200 due to the rarity of true gem mint 10s from this hard signed vintage and Lofton’s stellar, long career at the top of lineups for Cleveland and elsewhere.

1997 Bowman’s Best Chipper Jones #83 – Produced during the height of the mid-90s sports card boom, theseparallel Bowman’s Best insert sets featured some of the era’s most hyped young talents. Even though not a true rookie card for Jones, PSA 10s command over $1,500 as he ascended into the game’s truest five-tool threat. The photography, parallels and designs from this era Bowman/Donruss/Upper Deck sets are still fan favorites celebrating baseball’s golden age.

Overall, 1992-2003 represent some of the true mountaintop years for baseball card investment legends like Griffey, Bonds, Jeter, and Chipper Jones who all had Hall of Fame careers after arrival on the scene as can’t-miss prospects. Their rookies and formative years parallel inserts remain hugely coveted by collectors for capturing lightening in a bottle moments before ascension among the game’s immortals.While values fluctuate, condition sensitive 1990s production will always be iconic to the modern era boom that revived the hobby.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 2013

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The year 2013 saw some truly remarkable rookie cards introduced to the baseball card collecting world. Several young stars broke out in a big way and their rookie cards became highly sought after by collectors. While it will take years to truly see which 2013 rookies go on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers, their cards were already trading hands for top dollar. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable baseball cards issued in 2013 based on the performances and hype around the players their rookie cards featured.

Mike Trout 2012 Topps Update Series Base RC (Card #US-MT): Widely considered the most valuable modern baseball card in existence, Trout has lived up to all expectations since debuting in 2011. His golden rookie season of 2012 truly put him on the map as a superstar. As a result, his 2012 Topps Update Series base rookie card skyrocketed in value, routinely commanding over $1000 per copy in mint condition. The card captured Trout at the absolute peak of his hype and became the holy grail for Angels collectors. Even after substantial print runs, this iconic RC remains among the highest valued from the 2010s.

Bryce Harper 2012 Topps Base RC (Card #97): Harper was arguably the most hyped baseball prospect ever when he debuted in 2012. While inconsistencies have prevented him from reaching the lofty expectations through 2021, his rookie card status is undeniable. This simple yet effective base card became enormously popular and valuable, typically trading hands for $600-800 each in top-grade. Harper’s combination of five-tool talent, youth, and big market fame launched this RC value stratospherically high from the get go. As one of the most visible players in the game, interest in this card shows no sign of slowing.

Manny Machado 2012 Topps Base RC (Card #219): Machado made a strong impression in his brief 2012 debut before injuries slowed him in 2013. Collectors recognized his special gifts right away. Possessing perhaps the sweetest swing in the game along with excellent defense at multiple positions, Machado established himself as a cornerstone player for the Orioles. As Baltimore remained competitive, his base rookie maintained strong demand. In top condition, prices regularly reached $500-600 throughout 2013-2015 before leveling off in the $300-400 range once initial hype cooled.

Christian Yelich 2012 Bowman Sterling Auto RC (#B-CY): The smooth swinging Yelich broke out with the Marlins in 2013, batting .288 with promising power. But the real draw for collectors was landing an autographed version of his rookie card from the premium Bowman Sterling set. Extremely scarce with limited print runs, Yelich’s auto RC rocketed to over $1000 each by years end. The combination of a hot rookie season and rare autographed status shot this card to the forefront of value lists practically overnight. As Yelich developed into an All-Star, interest in his high-end rookie cards remained steady.

Jose Fernandez 2012 Topps Gold Mint RC (#178): Prior to the tragic circumstances of 2016, Fernandez looked every bit the ace Miami hoped he would become. But in 2012, the baseball card world fell in love with an eccentric young fireballer who brought excitement and energy to Marlins games. As such, collectors pounced on any scarce parallels of his iconic smiling rookie card. The ultra-premium Topps Gold Mint parallel offered just one per case of primary issue. Exceeding rarity led values north of $1000 each during Fernandez’s ascendancy before leveling off around $500 following his untimely passing.

Miguel Cabrera 2003 Topps Traded RC Auto Patch (/99): Not exactly a 2013 card, but Cabrera’s elite career made any rare parallels to his RC enormously sought after. When a unique 3-colored auto patch version numbered to just 99 emerged, all bets were off. At 10 years strong in the majors and still crushing, the attraction was undeniable for this piece of Miggy’s early days. Condition sensitive due to the fragile nature of patches, values reached a stratospheric $2000-4000 range simply due to the prestige and rarity involved. A true Holy Grail for Tigers collectors.

Yu Darvish 2011 Bowman Platinum Autographs RC (#311): While arm injuries slowed Darvish at times Stateside, collectors immediately recognized his ace potential upon arrival in 2012. Few rookie cards look and feel as premium as those found in Bowman Platinum’s plush autographs set. Striking design paired with Darvish’s flashy signature made the 2011 version enormously popular. Scarce to begin with, signed versions held steady around $800-1000 throughout 2013-2014 before climbing higher as Darvish’s star continued rising in Texas. His cards remain quite desirable abroad as well.

Mike Olt 2012 Bowman Chrome Reds Refractor Auto RC (#209): Olt flashed prodigious raw power in a brief Rangers debut leading to huge cards values. None more so than the prized Reds Refractor autograph parallel found in Bowman Chrome. Numbered sparsely at /150 copies, each garnished in the crimson refractor hue. Values exploded to $2000-3000 in the card’s early months before injuries slowed Olt’s progress. Remains a true condition-sensitive treasure for dedicated Rangers collectors willing to invest big. Showcased the lightning potential in a player at the time.

Christian Bethancourt 2012 Bowman Chrome Purple Refractor Auto RC (#290): While Bethancourt didn’t stick as an every day catcher long term, his tools made an early impression in Atlanta leading collectors to scoop any scarce parallels available. The regal purple refractor parallel looked magnificent paired with hissignature found in Bowman Chrome. Extremely Limited at /99 copies moved values near $1000-1500 for much of 2013 before demand stabilized closer to $500 long term as Bethancourt’s bat failed to carry over.

It’s always difficult to truly project which rookies from any given year will go on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers. The cards highlighted here captured special talents who were either already producing at an All-Star clip or flashed rare upside that generated huge collector demand. Strong early performances and scarce parallel print runs resulted in seven-figure values for several 2013 rookie cards. With years still to play out, it will be interesting to see which continue appreciating as legends and which settle at more modest levels. Regardless, these represented among the most intriguing and investment worthy cards on the market at the time.

MOST VALUABLE JOE MORGAN BASEBALL CARDS

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Joe Morgan was a baseball legend who had a Hall of Fame career playing second base for the Houston Astros and Cincinnati Reds during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Known for his speed, offensive production, and defensive excellence, Morgan won back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1975-76 and helped lead the Big Red Machine to World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Morgan’s impressive on-field accomplishments and popularity during his era have made several of his baseball cards among the most coveted and valuable in the hobby.

One of the most historic and sought-after Joe Morgan cards is his 1968 Topps rookie card, which is considered a key issue for collectors looking to assemble the complete Topps set from that year. As one of the first cards issued featuring Morgan early in his career with the Astros, the 1968 Topps rookie holds significant importance. The scarcity of high-grade copies in circulation also contributes to its extensive demand. An example earning a Gem Mint grade of 10 can realize prices upwards of $20,000 when one becomes available in a major auction. Even well-centered near-Mint 9 copies rarely trade for under $3,000.

Another notoriously scarce and valuable Morgan issue from the 1960s is his 1967 Fleer card, which was part of the short-lived but historically significant Fleer baseball card set that year. The 1967 Fleer set contained only 126 total cards and featured a different photographic style compared to Topps, making examples all the more uncommon today. In top-rated Gem Mint 10 condition, a 1967 Joe Morgan Fleer card can sell for over $15,000. Near-Mint 9 copies still demand over $5,000 in the current market. The card’s status as one of Morgan’s earliest issued and Fleer’s experimental short run in 1967 adds to its appeal as a key piece for advanced collectors.

Perhaps the single most coveted Morgan card and one of the all-time greats in the hobby is his iconic 1973 Topps card. Featuring Morgan in his iconic Cincinnati Reds uniform from the peak of his career in the 1970s, the 1973 Topps card captures him at the height of his abilities and popularity. It was also the first card to feature Morgan after his 1971 trade from Houston to Cincinnati, where he became a star playing alongside fellow Big Red Machine greats like Johnny Bench and Tony Perez. In pristine Gem Mint 10 condition with perfect centering, examples have reached as high as $50,000 at auction. Near-Mint 9 copies still realize in the $15,000 to $25,000 range. Even well-centered Ex-Mt 8s rarely sell for under $5,000 due to its universally recognized status as one of the finest baseball cards ever produced.

Honorable vintage mentions for valuable Morgan cards include his 1970 Topps, 1971 Topps, and 1972 Topps issues from the beginning of his Reds tenure. All command significant money in top grades relative to their era due to Morgan’s ascension amongst the game’s elite during this period. The 1970 Topps card in particular holds historic notoriety as one of his earliest with Cincinnati in high demand at $3,000+ for Near-Mint copies.

Moving into the modern era, high-grade rookie and star prospects from the late 1980s and 1990s frequently achieve record prices. One such example is Morgan’s 1989 Topps Traded baseball card, featuring him during his stint as a manager and coach after retirement. As part of Topps’ traded set highlighting notable players in new roles, the 1989 TTT card captured Morgan at the beginning of his post-playing career. In pristine Mint condition, examples have sold for over $1,000. Even well-centered Near-Mint copies command several hundred dollars.

Overall, Joe Morgan’s legendary playing career and iconic status as a member of the Big Red Machine have made several of his vintage baseball cards extraordinarily valuable, led by his 1968 Topps rookie and 1973 Topps issue. For serious Morgan collectors and investors, finding high-quality copies of his 1960s and 1970s Topps releases in top numerical grades is the holy grail. But even his lesser-known 1980s and 1990s cards hold significance due to capturing the Hall of Famer at different stages in and after his unforgettable on-field tenure. As one of the greatest second basemen in MLB history, Morgan’s cards remain a vibrant part of the hobby.

MOST VALUABLE TOPPS 1986 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most coveted issues in the modern era by collectors. Coming on the heels of a historic season in 1985 that saw Don Mattingly’s hitting prowess and Pete Rose’s chase of Ty Cobb’s all-time hits record, the ’86 Topps cards captured the sport at the peak of its popularity. Condition and demand have also played a major role in driving values sky-high for select rookie and star cards over the past few decades. Here are some of the most valuable and desirable 1986 Topps baseball cards on the market today based on condition, significance, and recent auction prices:

Roger Clemens (#170) – The Rocket’s rookie card is arguably the crown jewel of the entire ’86 set. Clemens went on to become one of the greatest pitchers of all time, capturing 7 Cy Young Awards and setting numerous career records. High-grade Clemens rookies in Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition have been known to fetch upwards of $10,000. One PSA 10 Gem Mint example sold for a record $35,150 at auction in 2021, highlighting this card’s elite status.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#481) – Junior’s rookie is a true holy grail for many collectors thanks to his iconic image, swing, and playing career. Griffey lived up to the hype as one of the finest outfielders and players in baseball history. PSA 10 examples are extremely scarce and prices have climbed into the stratosphere, with a gold-labeled 1/1 variant selling for $3.12 million in 2016. Even “average” high-grade NM-MT copies go for $3,000-$5,000.

Mark McGwire (#87) – Big Mac’s first Topps card holds tremendous value as one of the earliest indicators of his massive home run potential. McGwire went on to smash the single-season home run record in 1998 and revolutionized the game. PSA 10 Gem Mint McGwire rookies now sell for $2,000-$3,000 while high-grade NM-MT copies still reach $500-$1,000.

Don Mattingly (#218) – The outstanding 1984 and 1985 seasons by Mattingly as the Yankees captain made his rookie card a hot commodity. As one of the elite hitters of the 1980s, high-grade Mattingly rookies in NM-MT condition consistently sell for $800-$1,500. A PSA 10 recently brought in an impressive $2,270.

Wally Joyner (#481) – While Joyner had a fine career as a player, it’s his card number that gives this issue legend status. Sharing the same #481 as Griffey’s super-rare and insanely expensive rookie made the Joyner almost a modern-day counterpart. PSA 10 examples recently sold for around $500 since the card occupies a fun spot in baseball card lore.

Bob Horner (#105) – Horner finished third in ROY voting in 1978 and was one of the most hyped prospects of the early 80s. His rookie card carries value due to that excitement and status as one of the big “name” rookies in ’86 Topps. High-grade NM-MT Horner rooks go for $200-$300.

Tom Glavine (#557) – The 300-game winning lefty’s rookie was far from the chase card in ’86 but has gained ground as one of the more affordable Hall of Famer issues. NM-MT Glavine rooks consistently sell in the $75-150 range on the secondary market.

Rickey Henderson (#1) – Hendo was already a three-time All-Star and stolen base machine by 1986. Considered one of, if not the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer ever, his vintage cards hold value. The #1 card position also adds prestige and his rookies have sold for $75-$150 in high grades.

Other notables like Will Clark (#120), Barry Larkin (#180), and Vince Coleman (#551) have also gained popularity as those players etched their names into baseball history. 1986 Topps as a whole broke new ground by using a photo on every card versus alternating with drawings. This innovative change has kept the design fresh and collectible over 35 years later. For serious vintage baseball card investors, a high-quality ’86 Topps collection remains a lucrative long-term hold.

1986 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST EXPENSIVE

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The 1986 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable collections in the hobby. With stars like Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, and Mark McGwire gracing the cardboard, many fans consider ’86 Topps to be the high-water mark of the junk wax era that spanned the late 1980s. While the majority of the 792 cards in the set hold nominal value today, a select few gems have appreciably increased in price over the past 35 years to become some of the priciest individual sports cards on the market. Let’s take a deeper look at five of the most expensive 1986 Topps cards and what makes each so desirable.

Roy Hobbs ‘Magic’ Card (#640) – While not an actual player card, the fictional ‘Roy Hobbs’ card that pays homage to the character from the movie “The Natural” has taken on legendary mythic status itself. Only five of these elusive short prints are believed to exist, making it one of the true holy grails for hardcore ’86 Topps collectors. In March 2021, one of these ultra-rare ‘Magic’ cards achieved a new record auction price of $506,512, shattering expectations. With an enchanting visual aesthetic and an amazing story behind its limited production, #640 is arguably the crown jewel of the entire set.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#581) – As one of the set’s lone true rookie cards, Junior’s debut is a perennial favorite for obvious reasons. Even back in the late ’80s, Griffey was heralded as a can’t-miss superstar and his career would go on to more than live up to the hype. PSA 10 examples of this card have topped $250,000 at auction in recent years, making it one of the most expensive modern baseball cards period. No collection is truly complete without Griffey’s rookie staring back, a testament to his lasting icon status both on and off the field.

Billy Ripken “F*** Face” Error (#626) – This notoriously controversial card made headlines in 1989 when it was discovered that Billy Ripken had an uncensored four-letter word scrawled across his forehead in the team portrait on the back. While mistakenly passed by Topps’ quality control, the “F*** Face” error became an instant cult phenomenon among collectors overnight. PSA 9 copies routinely break six figures today. Its scandalous backstory and freak occurrence nature give it true one-of-a-kind appeal for modern memorabilia connoisseurs.

Rob Deer (#244) – On the surface, nothing particularly special about the card of former journeyman outfielder Rob Deer. Only 23 copies of his ’86 Topps issue are known to exist, making it one of the true rare duplicates within the set. Just one available in a PSA 10 grade, it set the record in 2021 after selling for $102,000. Extremely limited pop numbers have elevated mundane player cards into must-owns before – Deer being a perfect case study of raw scarcity overriding on-field performance.

Cal Ripken Jr. (#81) – Arguably the greatest shortstop in MLB history, Ripken’s iconic consecutive games played streak is legend. But long before that, he was one of baseball’s brightest young stars in 1986. As such, his common ’86 Topps issue still demands big bucks from collectors today. Near-mint PSA 9s go for $15,000+. While not nearly as rare as the cards above, Ripken’s eternal appeal and status as a Hall of Fame lock ensure his rookie stays highly valued for decades more.

While wax packs of 1986 Topps cards could easily be had for under $1 back in the day, a select few highly conditioned examples from the set are now worth over 500 times as much. Features like star players, groundbreaking errors, extreme scarcity, and cultural cache all contribute to justify these lofty price tags. As long as dedicated collectors are willing to pay a premium to own the best of the best, 1986 Topps looks poised to retain its position as a benchmark in the world of sports memorabilia.

1985 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1985 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the 1980s. It was Fleer’s first true competitor to Topps, who had enjoyed a monopoly in the baseball card market for decades. With the introduction of this exciting new option, collectors began what is now known as the “Great Baseball Card Boom” of the 1980s.

While the entire 1985 Fleer set holds value for collectors, some stand out as truly valuable gems. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive and desirable cards from this historic release.

Perhaps the most iconic of all is the Fleer #252 Gary Carter rookie card. As the first true Fleer rookie card for the Hall of Famer, this card created a huge surge in interest upon its release. Carter went on to have a stellar 19-year career, establishing himself as one of the greatest catching talents in MLB history. His Fleer rookie is the true crown jewel of the ’85 set, often commanding prices upwards of $1,000 depending on condition. Even well-worn near-mint copies still sell for several hundred dollars.

Another huge star rookie from ’85 Fleer is #97 Dwight Gooden. Arguably one of the best pitchers of his generation, Gooden’s Fleer issue was the first card released showing him in a Mets uniform. His dominance on the mound and 1984 Rookie of the Year award made this one of the most hotly desired new cards. In top grades like mint or gem mint, Gooden’s Fleer rookie can fetch over $2,000. Even well-loved near-mint copies still sell in the $500-1000 range.

Beyond the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, ’85 Fleer is also home to scarce short prints that boost valuable significantly in higher grades. One such example is #250 Darryl Strawberry, which was originally overlooked by collectors but has since become a true blue chip. High grade Strawberry Fleers in the PSA 8-10 range easily sell for well over $500 due to the card’s rarity. Another tough-to-find short print is #244 Jack Clark, whose PSA 9 copy recently sold for nearly $400.

Powerhouse hitters are also well-represented among the ’85 Fleer premium cards. #111 Don Mattingly, already a star by 1985, is iconic wearing pinstripes on his Fleer issue. PSA/BGS gem mint 10 Mattinglys have topped $2,000 at auction. Hall of Famer #78 George Brett remains highly coveted as well, with elite examples approaching $1,000. #247 Mike Schmidt, already a perennial MVP, is another third-base titan worth well into the triple digits even in lower grades.

Rookies of other future superstars like #125 Wally Joyner, #169 Barry Larkin, and #228 Mark McGwire also gain value in high grades. Superstars near the end of productive careers like #101 Dave Winfield and #121 Eddie Murray also demand six-figure prices for pristine specimens. Rare error variations on basic cards like the #12 Jim Cowser “upside down photo” variant can net mid-four figures as well.

Condition is absolutely king when evaluating the elite expensive cards in the ’85 Fleer set. Even minor flaws or wear drastically cut into a card’s resale potential. That’s why the true seven-figure specimens will be flawless PSA/BGS gem mint 10 graded examples. For most collectors on a budget, there are still plenty of affordable highlights to be found even in well-loved near-mint to mint graded copies of the set’s stars.

The 1985 Fleer baseball release sparked collector frenzy and holds a hallowed place in card history. Rookie gems and scarce variants remain valuable and fun to chase even decades later. For engaged investors, high grades of this set’s biggest names remain a proven cornerstone of any collection. But lower graded copies still offer nostalgic thrills and affordability to new collectors just starting their journey with this legendary early Fleer baseball issue as well.

1990S MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990s were a golden age for collecting valuable baseball cards. Thanks to several stars emerging on the scene and the baseball card hobby reaching new heights of popularity, several 1990s rookie cards have skyrocketed in value and emerged as the most expensive and sought after cards from the decade. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest 1990s baseball cards that fetch enormous sums at auction.

1997 Bowman’s Best Refractor #1 Ken Griffey Jr. – This ultra rare Griffey Jr. rookie refractor is considered the crown jewel of 1990s cards. It receives a Mint 9 or 10 grade due to its fragile refractor technology and pops up for auction only once in a blue moon. In 2018, one example in pristine Mint 9 condition sold at auction for an astounding $350,100, making it not only the most valuable 1990s card but one of the costliest baseball cards of all-time. Griffey was the biggest star of the 90s and his refractor rookie has legendary status due to its scarcity and condition challenges.

1992 Bowman Derek Jeter Rookie #616 – As one of the all-time great Yankees, it’s no surprise that Derek Jeter’s rookie card is one of the costliest from the decade he broke in. High grades of his 1992 Bowman rookie bring immense prices. In January 2021, a rare PSA Gem Mint 10 copy sold for $99,525, demonstrating Jeter’s iconic status and the significance of his rookie issue. While not quite as rare or flashy as some of the others on this list, the “Captain’s” card remains a sound blue chip investment worthy of any collection.

1993 SP Derek Jeter Autograph Rookie #85 – For Jeter super-collectors, one of his crown jewel cards is the ultra-tough 1993 SP Autograph rookie. These signed rookies were inserted at an incredibly low rate and high grades in the PSA 9-10 range can sell beyond $100,000 when they surface. In 2011, one PSA 10 realized $99,708, showing that authenticated examples of Jeter’s earliest signed cards will likely continue their ascent with time. With its rarity, coveted autograph, and starring one of the most respected Yankees ever, it’s a true heavyweight in the Jeter collection.

1995 Pinnacle #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor – While not quite as rare as his 1997 Bowman’s Best Refractor #1, Griffey’s 1995 Pinnacle Refractor still ranks among the most prized and valuable 1990s cards. Appearing a bit more frequently in auctions compared to the ’97 issue, PSA 10 examples still routinely break the $100,000 mark. In 2017, one Pinnacle Refractor graded mint hit $106,020 showing it has staying power as a true blue chip investment in the Hobby. It’s Griffey at the peak of his powers as one of baseball’s biggest stars in living color on cardboard.

1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie #1 – Serving as Griffey’s true freshman appearance after a late season callup in 1990, the 1991 Upper Deck issue had a massive print run and was pulled from packs by millions. High grades in the coveted PSA 10 are exponentially more scarce. At auction in 2019, a perfect Mint 10 copy sold for over $106,700, emphasizing how a super high grade can lift even a huge-run card to extreme new heights. For Griffey super-collectors, it’s an essential piece to own in the finest condition available.

1997 Leaf Limited Jason Giambi autograph/patch 1/1 – Found among the rarest of the rare in 1990s card products was the elusive 1997 Leaf Limited Rated Rookies Autograph/Memorabilia parallel issue. Each player’s card was serially numbered to only one copy in existence. The Jason Giambi offered up in a 2012 Goldin Auctions sale currently stands as the most expensive 1990s card ever publicly sold when it realized a staggering $189,000 given its true one-of-a-kind status. While Giambi wouldn’t achieve the career heights of some other stars, for collectors it represented owning THE card as the sole in existence.

1993 SP Derek Jeter Autograph #155 – While not quite as valuable as Jeter’s rarer 1993 SP Autograph Rookie, high grades of his main 1993 SP Autograph still set collectors back many thousands. In 2014, a perfect PSA 10 sold for a sizable $61,500, showing that Jeter autographs in top shape from his true freshman season are prized trophies. With its beautiful vintage appearance signed by the Yankees great, it exemplifies the high-priced collectibles that can emerge from even the biggest card sets when pristine.

1999 Bowman Chrome Refractors #255 Albert Pujols, #465 Tom Brady – While not traditional baseball cards per se, the scramble to find valuable modern rookies led to new heights for the 1999 Bowman Chrome Refractor parallels featuring stars from multiple sports. In particular, examples showing future Hall of Famers Albert Pujols and Tom Brady have cracked six-figure prices at auction in recent years. A PSA 10 Pujols sold for $105,000 in 2021 showing its status as a truly elite modern rookie, while high grade Brady refractor rookies regularly sell for into the low six figures.

1996 Pinnacle Inside Traxx Refractor #1 Derek Jeter – Considered the pinnacle (pun intended) of 1990s Jeter parallels, pristine examples of his elusive 1996 Pinnacle Inside Traxx Refractor reach astronomical prices. In 2020, a flawless PSA 10 sold at bidding wars for an astounding $234,542, underlining how a truly one-of-a-kind parallel issue for a beloved star can capture the hobby’s imagination. For the ultra-premium Jeter collector, the Inside Traxx Refractor reigns as the elite jewelry piece to center a collection around.

1990 Score #770 Frank Thomas Rookie – As one of the most feared sluggers of the 1990s, Big Hurt Frank Thomas launched many a collector on a quest to find his rookie card in the highest grade possible. Thanks to the inherent fragile quality control of the 1990 Score set, true pristine PSA 10 rookies sell like none other. In 2022, one changed hands for an even $100,000, establishing its premier status as the benchmark Thomas rookie to own in the most superior condition. No 1990s collection is complete without the imposing presence of the Score #770.

1998 SP Authentic Joey Votto Autograph Rookie #82 – While not a huge star name initially, Joey Votto emerged as one of the game’s best hitters of the late 2000s-2010s. His extremely rare 1998 SP Authentic autographed rookie was ungraded when it pulled in $66,100 at auction in 2018. It represented one of the few authenticated examples to surface publicly. For obsessed Votto collectors, it’s the pinnacle trophy of owning their favorite player’s true beginning signed by the man himself. Prices may continue rising as he eyes a Hall of Fame plaque.

So in conclusion, the 1990s were a time when true superstars like Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, and Frank Thomas launched their careers. Thanks to their unprecedented popularity coupled with innovations in insert parallels and the mint condition craze, their early rookie cards have achieved astronomical new highs. But it also shows how cards of even lesser known 90s players like Joey Votto can surge in value with the right combination of rare autograph and authenticity factors. The 1990s created the blueprint for modern card investing and enthusiasts are still chasing its most elusive and pricey issues to this day.

1990 TOPPS TRADED BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1990 Topps Traded baseball card set is one of the most popular traded sets ever produced by Topps. While it does not contain the rookie cards of superstars like Chipper Jones, Tom Glavine, or Jeff Bagwell like the 1991 Topps Traded set, there are still several extremely valuable and desirable cards that can fetch big money from collectors. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the 1990 Topps Traded cards that are considered the most valuable in the set.

Perhaps the most iconic and valuable card in the entire 1990 Topps Traded set is card #150, featuring Nolan Ryan of the Texas Rangers tossing a no-hitter. This card perfectly captures Ryan in his prime at age 43, cementing his legend as the all-time strikeout king. With his golden locks and intense stare, Ryan looks as intimidating as ever on the mound. Only 125 copies of this card were printed, making it one of the true short prints in the set. In gem mint condition, a PSA 10 copy of this rare Nolan Ryan no-hitter card has sold for over $10,000 at auction. Even well-centered copies in lower grades still command prices well over $1,000 due to the intense demand for this piece of baseball history.

Another true short print and one of the most valuable 1990 Topps Traded cards is the Alex Cole #144 rookie card, with an absurdly low print run of only 10 copies believed to exist. Cole was a light-hitting backup catcher who spent 6 seasons in the big leagues, but his miniscule rookie output has made this one of the most coveted cards for binder collectors. In the exceedingly rare event that a PSA-graded copy comes up for auction, it usually sells for well above $5,000. Even moderately played raw copies in owners’ hands are valued up into the thousands due to the ultra-low population of this rookie gem.

Moving to star players with somewhat higher print runs, the Nolan Ryan Houston Astros “#1 Star” card from 1990 Topps Traded (card #29) is also enormously popular with collectors. As one of the set’s inserts focused on franchise greats, this colorful horizontal card showcases Ryan’s dominance for the Astros earlier in his career. With an estimated print run around 1000 copies, well-centered versions in high grades have sold in the $800-1200 range. Even moderately played raw copies routinely trade hands for $300-500 between enthusiasts due to Ryan’s universal appeal.

Another 1990 Topps Traded card featuring “The Ryan Express” is the #144 card showing him as a member of the Texas Rangers. While not quite as scarce as the no-hitter parallel discussed above, this more common horizontal base card still holds great value grading a high PSA or BGS grade. Copies topping out at PSA/BGS 10 are still quite rare themselves, with auctions seeing these gems sell for $500-800. Most raw copies even in played condition still command $75-150 due to the attachment many collectors feel toward immortalizing Ryan’s later career accolades.

Rounding out the top 5 most valuable 1990 Topps Traded cards is the #132 Ken Griffey Jr rookie from his time with the Seattle Mariners organization. While Griffey had already debuted in the majors at this point, this marked his first true “rookie card” produced by Topps as he had previously only been included in update sets. Estimates place the print run at approximately 5000 copies, with examples graded a pristine PSA/BGS 10 reaching the $500-800 range depending on activity level. Most well-centered raw Junior rookies still sell in the $100-250 range thanks to his enduring star power and popularity amongst card collectors today.

While it may not contain the same star hype as the 1991 edition, the 1990 Topps Traded baseball card set still harbors some true rarities and true “needles in a haystack” specimens. From ultra-short prints of legends like Ryan and no-name prospects, to rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, this set demonstrates why vintage trading cards from the late 80s/early 90s remain a proven avenue for serious long-term appreciation. With enough diligent searching, one of these valuable gems could still be lurking undiscovered in a dusty old collection, waiting to excite collectors when it surfaces anew.

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1980’s

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The 1980s were a pivotal time in the hobby of baseball card collecting. Starting in the late 1970s, interest and demand for vintage baseball cards skyrocketed. This created a speculative bubble, especially for the most valuable and sought-after rookie cards from the 1950s. Throughout the 1980s, collectors began focusing their attention on the new rookie cards being produced. Some of these rookies would go on to have Hall of Fame careers, making their rookie cards highly valuable investments. Here are some of the most expensive baseball cards from the 1980s today:

1989 Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck RC #1 – $450,000+

The 1989 Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie card is widely considered the crown jewel of all 1980s cardboard. Griffey was one of the most hyped rookie prospects ever and did not disappoint over his storied 22-year career. He slammed 630 home runs and garnered 13 All-Star selections. Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing made him one of the most exciting players of his generation to watch. All of this has led to his rookie card being the most valuable baseball card of the 1980s by a wide margin. High-grade examples in PSA 10 Gem Mint condition have now topped the $450,000 mark in recent private sales and auctions. Even in lower PSA 9 Near Mint condition, this is a six-figure card. Griffey’s dominance and popularity continue to drive demand for this all-time classic rookie three decades after its release.

1987 Fleer Bo Jackson RC #118 – $90,000

Bo Jackson was already a phenomenon going into his rookie season of 1987 after winning the Heisman Trophy in college football. No one predicted the unique dual-sport career path he would forge. Jackson slugged 142 home runs in only eight MLB seasons despite having to split time with his football commitments. He remains the only athlete ever voted an All-Star in two major American sports. Jackson’s impressive athletic feats have turned his 1987 Fleer rookie into one of the most iconic cards from the 1980s. High-grade PSA 10 examples have cracked the $90,000 level in recent years. Even in PSA 9 condition, this exciting rookie will still command over $20,000 due to its rarity and subject matter.

1986 Topps Traded Ken Griffey Jr. RC #41T – $75,000

While the Upper Deck rookie gets all the attention in the Griffey market, this 1986 Topps Traded version holds great value as well. Only 251,000 of these were printed compared to over 2 million of the flagship rookie. That massive shortage has pushed high-grade PSA 10 trade versions up over $75,000. PSA 9s still sell for an impressive $15,000-20,000 range because of the card’s relative scarcity. For set builders, this is a true key card from one of the biggest stars of the 1980s and ’90s.

1988 Fleer Barry Bonds RC #303 – $62,500

Barry Bonds would go on to smash the all-time home run record and win a record seven MVP awards. It wasn’t until the 1993 season that he truly broke out. His rookie season stats were solid but unspectacular. Regardless, collectors recognized his incredible talent and five-tool ability from the start. As a result, Bonds’ 1988 Fleer rookie has become one of the most coveted cards from its set and the entire decade. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint, the virtually flawless examples are now selling in the $62,500 range. Even well-centered PSA 9s command over $10,000 in today’s market.

1988 Score Griffey Jr. RC #130 – $45,000

While sometimes overlooked due to the dominance of the Upper Deck rookie, the 1988 Score Griffey Jr. rookie holds enormous value of its own. This was the most widely produced of Junior’s rookie options that year with approximately 1.8 million printed. High grades are still exceedingly difficult to locate. In a PSA 10, this key rookie recently sold on eBay for a staggering $45,000. PSA 9s routinely sell for $7,500-10,000 now as well. Given the continued strength of the Griffey market nearly 35 years later, these Score rookies could very well push past six figures like the Upper Deck down the road.

1986 Topps Traded Mark McGwire RC #99T – $30,000

Big Mac’s prodigious home run prowess would not truly emerge until the 1987 season. A handful of collectors saw his immense potential coming out of the gates based on his physical size and left-handed power stroke. They stocked up on his ultra-short printed Topps Traded rookie, making it the most significant card from McGwire’s initial season. Today, in a PSA 10 Gem Mint, examples have sold at auction for astronomical prices approaching $30,000. Even PSA 9s demand over $7,500 due to the card’s rarity and significance as a crucial rookie issue.

1988 Donruss Barry Bonds RC #139 – $20,000

While 1988 Fleer introduced Bonds to the hobby, Donruss followed suit with one of the simpler but still highly collectible rookie options that year. Even though over 1 million were printed, high grades remain scarce. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint, CMP claims an unpaid asking price of $20,000 was attained earlier this year. Meanwhile, a PSA 9 brought nearly $7,000 at auction. When factoring in population numbers and declining availability, Donruss rookies offer a more attainable collecting target during Bonds’ prolific career as opposed to the Fleer standard bearer.

1986 Fleer Update Barry Bonds RC #U-10 – $15,000

The first Bonds card wasn’t technically his true rookie either, as he debuted late in the 1985 season for the Pirates and this 1986 Fleer Update was issued mid-season to capture that initial exposure. Like Score and Donruss would for Griffey, this Update fulfilled the role of introducing Bonds to collectors. A flawless PSA 10 recently sold for $15,000, showing the enduring demand for any early Bonds cardboard over 35 years on. The affordable yet desirable nature of this Update issue make it a premier collectible for fans of the seven-time MVP’s early years.

1989 Score Griffey Jr. Traded RC #22T – $12,500

While far less scarce than the Topps Traded, this Score Traded option holds tremendous significance as well. Approximately 233,000 were printed compared to well over 1 million of the flagship Score rookie. Top-grade examples in PSA 10 condition have therefore climbed to $12,500 figures in recent memory. The steady interest in any Griffey variant from his monumental rookie season ensures this scarce parallel maintain lofty values matching some comparable flagship rookies from other stars.

With careers cemented in Cooperstown and ongoing nostalgia, these 1980s rookie sensations of Griffey, McGwire, Bonds and Bo Jackson dominate the most valuable baseball cards from the vibrant decade. Fueled by Hall of Fame production and cultural significance, cards like the Upper Deck Griffey, Topps Traded McGwire, and various early Bonds and Bo offerings have rocketed to six figures in many instances. Their enduring popularity and demand continue pushing appreciation nearly 40 years after issue. As the returns show, these pivotal early cardboard representatives of legends defined both the 1980s hobby boom and an investment blueprint followed for generations since.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1988 TO 1992

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The late 1980s and early 1990s were a boom period for the baseball card industry. More kids than ever were collecting cards of their favorite players as the pastime reached new levels of popularity. During this time, many of the cards produced would go on to become extremely valuable today when in pristine, graded condition. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable baseball cards from 1988 to 1992.

1988 Fleer Barry Bonds Rookie Card

One of the highest valued rookie cards from the late 80s era is the 1988 Fleer Barry Bonds rookie card. Bonds went on to have one of the greatest careers in MLB history and his rookie is one of the most iconic from the junk wax era. In a BGS/PSA 10 gem mint condition, Barry Bonds’ 1988 Fleer RC has sold for over $30,000. Even in a PSA 9 excellent-mint state, the card has sold for well over $10,000. What makes this rookie so desirable is that Bonds turned out to be a true superstar and one of the greatest sluggers of all-time. Very few 1988 Fleer Bonds rookies grade out at the sought after PSA 10 level too, adding to its rarity.

1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card

Considered by many to be the most aesthetically pleasing baseball card design ever, the 1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie is one of the most valuable cards from the early 90s. Griffey was already a huge star coming up with tremendous hype surround his pro potential. His rookie lived up to it as he went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career. Pristine PSA 10 examples of the Griffey Jr. rookie have sold for well over $100,000. Even PSA 9 copies still fetch prices in the thousands due to the card’s iconic status. The Griffey Jr. rookie is arguably the single most valuable baseball card from the whole junk wax era.

1990 Score Jeff Bagwell Rookie Card

During the late 80s and early 90s, Jeff Bagwell established himself as one of the game’s top young power hitters for the Houston Astros. His 1990 Score rookie card remains a widely collected and valuable piece from the time period. High grade PSA 10 Bagwell rookies have topped $10,000 at auction. In PSA 9 condition, the 1990 Score Bagwell sells for $3,000-$5,000 still. His rookie maintained interest due to Bagwell developing into an All-Star caliber first baseman who won an MVP award during his career. The 1990 Score design also featured vivid color photos which added to collectors’ appeal of Bagwell’s rookie card at the time.

1989 Upper Deck Mark McGwire Rookie Card

Taking part in one of the most iconic single season home run chases in baseball history with Sammy Sosa in 1998 put Mark McGwire’s name in the record books. Collectors were already well aware of “Big Mac’s” prodigious power coming up through the minors prior to his MLB debut. His 1989 Upper Deck rookie is one the most noteworthy cards from that pioneering inaugural Upper Deck set. High grade PSA 10 copies have sold for up to $15,000 in recent years. Even in PSA 9 condition, McGwire’s 1989 UD rookie still fetches over $3,000 price tags. His monster home run total and all-time great home run hitting abilities translated to big collector interest in his rookie card early on.

1992 Bowman Derek Jeter Rookie Card

While he didn’t explode onto the scene quite as brightly as Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter developed into a true Yankee dynasty era star and shortstop great over his Hall of Fame career in pinstripes. His rookie card comes from the 1992 Bowman set which is remembered as one of the most iconic designs ever. Jeter rookie PSA 10 gems have topped $100,000 at auction. Even in PSA 9 condition, the 1992 Derek Jeter Bowman RC still brings over $10,000. What makes his rookie extremely sought after is Jeter’s status as a genuine New York sports icon who won 5 World Series titles playing for baseball’s marquee franchise. Few rookie cards better represent the late 90s Yankee glory years than Jeter’s 1992 Bowman issue.

1991 Leaf Frank Thomas Rookie Card

“The Big Hurt” Frank Thomas enjoyed one of the most prolific and durable slugging careers among power hitters of the 1990s. An MVP award winner for the Chicago White Sox, Thomas was among the most feared run producers in the AL for over a decade and a half. His rookie card comes from the nostalgic 1991 Leaf set. High grade PSA 10 Thomas rookies sell for north of $10,000. Even PSA 9 condition examples still fetch $3,000-$5,000 prices today. Thomas’s All-Star tenure and constant threat in the middle of Chicago’s batting order sparked lasting collector interest in his rookie from a memorable early 90s card brand like Leaf.

1989 Bowman Chipper Jones Rookie Card

The smooth-swinging Chipper Jones established himself as the longtime star third baseman of the Atlanta Braves dynasty teams. His classic 1989 Bowman rookie highlights one of the final years before the hobby exploded beyond control. Pristine PSA 10 Jones rookies have reached upwards of $20,000 lately. Even in PSA 9 condition, example sell for $4,000-$7,000 range prices. What makes Chipper’s rookie particularly notable are his one-franchise career as a true Braves legend who helped the club win their lone World Series title in 1995. Jones developed a cult following that keeps interest high in his early Bowman issue nearly 30 years later.

1990 Score Juan Gonzalez Rookie Card

At the height of the early 90s junk wax era, Juan Gonzalez emerged as one of the leading young sluggers in baseball for the Texas Rangers. His 1990 Score rookie is among the more affordable choices for collectors seeking a high quality card from that timeframe. PSA 10 Gonzalez rookies have recently sold for $2,000-$3,000. Even PSA 9 copies trade hands in the $500 range nowadays. While “Juan Gone” didn’t sustain superstardom quite as long as others, his mammoth home run total for the Rangers still intrigues collectors decades later. The 1990 Score design gives his rookie a fun retro feel as well.

1991 Upper Deck Moises Alou Rookie Card

A consistent run producer for several contending ballclubs, Moises Alou had one of the more underappreciated careers of the 1990s. His rookie card is an handsomely crafted issue from 1991 Upper Deck, one of the most fondly remembered base sets ever. Top-quality PSA 10 Alou rookies have reached $2,000 in recent auction sales. Even in PSA 9 condition, prices hold around the $500 mark for the popular early 90s rookie. Alou established himself as a legitimate middle-of-the-order threat during over a decade in the big leagues maintaining some collector reverence for his beautiful first bow card from the historic ’91 Upper Deck set.

1992 Leaf Ivan Rodriguez Rookie Card

“Pudge” Rodriguez went on to establish himself as perhaps the greatest defensive catcher in MLB history. Collectors were well aware of his dynamite talents coming up through the minors as well in the early 90s. His1992 Leaf rookie is among the most iconic issues from that period. PSA 10 condition Pudge rookies have sold for $6,000-8,000 recently. Even in a lower PSA 9 grade, the 1992 LeafRodriguez still achieves $1500-$3000 prices. I-Rod’s elite skills behind the plate and prolific career makes his rookie a prized piece for both Rangers and Tigers collector fans from the junk wax period.

While the glut of product from 1988-1992 lead to an oversupply of common cards, many rookies and stars from the time have proven to maintain great long term value–particularly when preserved in high grades. The players, designs, and nostalgia combined keep these classic cards as some of the most sought after investments and collecting pieces for enthusiasts from the late 80s/early 90s era or before. With the continued high prices commanded by icons like Bonds, Griffey Jr., Jeter and McGwire, it’s clear these cards remain vital to the hobby’s history.

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