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HOW MUCH ARE CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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The value of Cal Ripken Jr. baseball cards can vary widely depending on several factors, but primarily it depends on the specific card, its condition or grade, and the year it was printed. Ripken had a hugely successful career playing shortstop and third base for the Baltimore Orioles from 1981 to 2001, holding the record for most consecutive games played with 2,632. He was a 19-time All-Star and won two MVP awards. This led to him being one of the most collected players in the hobby.

Some of Ripken’s rookie cards from his first few years in the league in the early 1980s can be quite valuable today, especially if in near-mint or mint condition. His 1981 Fleer rookie card in a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade has sold for over $50,000. Even in raw near-mint to mint condition, this card would still fetch thousands. Other early 1980s cards like his 1982 Topps, 1983 Donruss, and 1984 Fleer Update rookie cards can reach into the hundreds or low thousands in top grades as well.

Ripken’s rookie season was 1981 but he did not have an official rookie card until 1982 Topps, making cards from 1981 and any earlier considered pre-rookie cards. This increases their scarcity and demand. Even regular issue cards from his early career, while more available, can still carry value today for condition-sensitive collectors if grading a high grade. Factors like centering, edges, and corners are heavily scrutinized when assessing the condition and monetary worth of vintage cards.

Moving into the late 1980s and 1990s, Ripken card values would be dictated more by specific promotional parallels, serially numbered short print runs, or rare sets the cards appeared in rather than just base rookie cards. For example, his 1989 Upper Deck rookie card sells for around $50-100 depending on grade due to the higher production of the Upper Deck set that year. His 1989 Leaf NNOF serially numbered to 999 copies card in a PSA/DNA 10 is valued more around $200-300 given its ultra-limited print run.

Ripken’s landmark 2,131st consecutive game in 1995 led to huge increase in collecting awareness and demand for his cards at the time. Many of the cards produced that year and 1996 to commemorate the milestone carry significant premiums to this day. His ultra-rare 1995 Futera Visions 1/1 plate card recently sold for $8,500. Even base rookie reprints from sets like 1996 Fleer Tradition sell for $75-150 in top condition due to nostalgia and anniversary significance.

Additionally, Ripken achieved several career milestones in the late 1990s like 3,000 hits that spurred new cards featuring those accomplishments. These anniversary and achievement parallel cards tend to hold steady values proportionate to their scarcity. For example, his 1998 Fleer Greats of the Game commemorative card serially numbered to 99 copies can fetch around $150-200 because of its ultra-limited print run highlighting his 3,000th hit.

Autograph and memorabilia cards featuring Ripken signatures and relic swatches have unsurprisingly gained prominence as insert parallel cards became more prevalent in the late 90s and 2000s.His autographed rookie cards are valued higher than even top-graded vintage issue cards. Even basic auto parallels from mainstream sets sell for $100-300 based on condition while rare 1/1 serial autographs reach thousands of dollars or more.

The overall value of any given Cal Ripken Jr. baseball card is largely dependent on its print run scarcity, condition grade if vintage, and special autograph or memorabilia aspects. While his 1980s rookie cards hold the most iconic status and worth, cards highlighting his impressive career milestones throughout the 1990s also retain significance today among collectors. With such an admirable Hall of Fame career, Ripken cards continue drawing interest across all levels of the hobby.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CAL RIPKEN

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Cal Ripken Jr. is one of the most iconic players in baseball history thanks to his incredible streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games from 1982 to 1998. As one of the greatest shortstops ever, Ripken’s impressive career makes his baseball cards some of the most popular and valuable in the hobby.

One of Ripken’s earliest Topps rookie cards is from his 1981 rookie season when he appeared in only 7 games for the Baltimore Orioles. The 1981 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie card is one of the key rookie cards for any baseball card collector. In high grade it can be worth thousands due to Ripken’s eventual Hall of Fame career and status as an all-time great. Even well-worn copies still carry value due to the card’s significance as Ripken’s first ever issued card from Topps.

While Ripken became a full-time starter in 1982, one of his standout early career cards is the 1987 Topps Traded Cal Ripken Jr. This was issued as a traded set separate from the base 1987 Topps set. It features an image of Ripken taking a big swing which really captures his aggressiveness at the plate. This card in near-mint to mint condition has steadily increased in value over the decades to over $100 now.

Of course, Ripken’s records and achievements in the 1990s took his cards to new heights. After breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record of 2,130 games in 1995, Ripken cards skyrocketed in demand. One of the hottest from this era remains the 1995 Topps Gold Label Cal Ripken Jr. insert card, which features a regal gold border. Only available through hobby packs at the time, this 1 of 100 parallel version demands upwards of $1000 nowadays.

Ripken’s official record-breaker card came in 1996 Topps Collector’s Choice. This commemorative issue honored “The Streak” and showed Ripken proudly displaying the baseball with Gehrig’s record-breaking 2,130 number. Highly sought after by collectors both casual and serious, prices start at $50 for well-centered near-mint copies of this historic card. In pristine condition it can bring in several hundred dollars or more.

The card that truly cemented Ripken’s legendary status was his 1997 Finest Refractor parallel card. Printed on modern refractors that shimmer and ‘rainbow’ in the light, this parallel marked the apex of Ripken mania in the collector’s market. Numbered to only 15 copies, each sold for over $1000 when initially released by Topps. Today a decade later, just finding one available for sale makes headlines, with prices absolutely skyrocketing into the tens of thousands of dollars.

While Ripken retired after the 2001 season, his impressive playing career and records ensured his cards would remain popular for collectors new and old. Some modern standouts include his 2000 Topps Diamond Anniversary retrospective card honoring his 3,000th hit. Priced around $20-30 in top condition, it’s one of the more accessible Ripken milestone cards from the late 90s-early 2000s period. Another is his ultra-short print 2001 Topps Tribute Bookcard, which came one per case of wax and shows Ripken tipped cap and sporting his number 8 Orioles jersey. Just 100 of these elegant bookcard parallels were made, pricing them around $500-1000 each presently.

In summary, Cal Ripken Jr.’s iconic career and records with the Baltimore Orioles translated perfectly to spectacular baseball cards over the decades. From his iconic rookie to defining 1990s achievement cards to modern parallel short prints, Ripken cards satisfy collectors interests both old and new. They remain some of the most storied issues in the entire hobby thanks to Ripken’s untouchable consecutive games played streak and all-time great play at shortstop over two decades in Baltimore.

CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Cal Ripken Jr. had one of the most illustrious baseball careers of all time, playing in the major leagues from 1981 to 2001 exclusively with the Baltimore Orioles. As a shortstop and third baseman, Ripken established himself as one of the greatest defensive players ever while also being a consistently solid hitter for over two decades. He famously played in 2,632 consecutive games, breaking Lou Gehrig’s supposedly unbreakable record of 2,130 straight games played.

Ripken’s incredible career and accomplishments have made many of his baseball cards quite valuable, especially his early rookie cards from the 1980s. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key Cal Ripken Jr. cards that can be worth a significant amount of money depending on the grade and condition of the particular card.

1981 Fleer #91 Cal Ripken Jr. Rookie Card

Considered one of the true holy grails of baseball cards, the 1981 Fleer Cal Ripken Jr. rookie is arguably the most valuable of all his cards. In pristine mint condition with a grade of PSA 10, this rare rookie has sold for over $100,000 at auction. Even well-centered examples in excellent near-mint to mint condition (PSA 8 or 9) can fetch thousands. The design features a young Ripken in an Orioles batting stance. The 1981 Fleer set had poor quality control and many cards were printed off-center, which hurts their value. Still, for such an iconic rookie card from one of the game’s greats, it remains highly sought after.

1982 Topps #138 Cal Ripken Jr.

Ripken’s true “flagship” rookie in the much larger 1982 Topps set, which had wider distribution than 1981 Fleer. Still a key piece of any serious Ripken PC collection. High-grade copies in PSA 8-10 condition can sell for $500-$2,000 depending on exact centering and condition qualities. Even well-worn but identifiable copies in PSA 5 or 6 grade still hold value around $100-200 for collectors. The design shows a headshot of Ripken in an Orioles uniform. Overall one of the more affordable Ripken rookies to acquire in nice condition for most collectors.

1983 Topps Traded #82T Cal Ripken Jr.

Considered Ripken’s “traded” rookie card since it was from the special 1983 Topps Traded set inserted in wax packs that year instead of the base set. Only produced his rookie season and thus quite scarce in high grades. PSA 10 copies have reached $5,000+ at auction. Even PSA 8s still hold value around $500-1000 depending on centering. Shows Ripken taking batting practice. An important Ripken piece for serious collectors to own in the best condition possible.

1983 Donruss #132 Cal Ripken Jr.

Ripken’s first major card produced by Donruss. While not technically a “rookie” since he had prior cards in 1982, it was still early in his career and the Donruss design and production quality make it a key card. PSA 10s have reached $2,000. PSA 8s are around $300-500 still. Depicts Ripken swinging a bat. Fills out an important piece of Ripken’s early career representation across the main card producers of the time.

1983 Topps #630 Cal Ripken Jr.

Ripken’s main rookie card produced in the gigantic 1983 Topps flagship set. As one of the most widely produced cards of his early career, high grades are still quite tough to come by. But PSA 10s can still reach $1,000 due to the card’s iconic status. PSA 8s are $200-300. Even worn PSA 5-6 graded copies retain value around $50-100 due to the card’s place in Ripken collecting history. Shows Ripken taking batting practice like the ’83 Traded card. An absolute must-have for any Ripken PC.

1984 Fleer Update #U8 Cal Ripken Jr.

One of Ripken’s scarcer early update/special issue cards. Only produced during 1984 in limited print run. Depicts Ripken swinging a bat. High grades remain elusive, but a PSA 10 could reach $500-1000. Even PSA 8s have sold for $150-300 showing the card’s cache among Ripken collectors. Fills out his early career representation across the main producers in the mid-1980s.

1987 Topps Traded #2T Cal Ripken Jr.

Commemorates Ripken winning the 1987 AL MVP and batting title. Only produced for that year’s Topps Traded set inserted in wax packs. PSA 10s have reached $800 due to the card’s scarcity and subject matter. Even PSA 8s hold value around $150-300. Depicts Ripken swinging with MVP trophy in background. Key card for any Ripken PC and one of his higher end 1980s/early career issues.

1991 Topps #1 Cal Ripken Jr.

Marks Ripken breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak in 1995 on the front. The back details his record-setting achievement. PSA 10s have sold for $1,500 and up. Even well-centered PSA 8s reach $300-500. One of Ripken’s most iconic modern issues outside of his rookies. An absolute cornerstone for any collection of his cards.

1996 Upper Deck #1 Cal Ripken Jr.

Commemorates Ripken breaking Gehrig’s record in 1995 with a photo from that game. Highly sought after by Ripken PC collectors. PSA 10s have reached $800-1000. PSA 8s are $150-300. Key modern Ripken card celebrating one of his most famous career achievements and milestones.

2000 Topps #1 Cal Ripken Jr.

Marks Ripken’s final season and career in 2000. PSA 10s have reached $500. PSA 8s hold value around $100-200 still. Even worn but identifiable PSA 5-6 copies retain value at $20-50. Iconic modern Ripken send-off card to close out his Hall of Fame playing career.

In conclusion, Cal Ripken Jr.’s legendary baseball career and accomplishments have made many of his vintage rookie cards and key issue cards highly valuable, especially in top grades. His 1981 Fleer rookie regularly tops auction prices of $100,000 in mint condition. But there are also many affordable Ripken cards that commemorate his achievements which can be had for $100-500 even in nice near-mint state. Overall, Ripken remains one of the most popular players for collectors to build full sets and collections of due to his status as an all-time great.

VALUABLE CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS

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Cal Ripken Jr. is one of the most cherished and respected figures in baseball history thanks to his incredible streak of 2,632 consecutive games played from 1982 to 1998, which shattered Lou Gehrig’s previous record. Naturally, Ripken’s accomplishments and iconic status have made some of his baseball cards incredibly valuable collectors items. While there are many noteworthy Ripken rookie cards and high grade examples that can fetch impressive prices, here are some of the most valuable Cal Ripken Jr. baseball cards that fetch top dollar amounts when they surface in the collecting marketplace.

Among the most coveted and valuable Ripken cards is his 1981 Topps Traded rookie card (card #81T). This is considered Ripken’s true rookie card since it was issued during his true rookie season of 1981 when he made his MLB debut, despite not appearing in the base 1981 Topps set. In gem mint condition, graded MINT 9 or higher by professional grading services like PSA or BGS, 1981 Topps Traded Cal Ripken Jr. rookie cards can sell for astronomical prices approaching or exceeding $100,000 at auction. Even high grade copies in the PSA 8 or BGS 8.5 range will still fetch five figures. What makes the ’81T Ripken so rare and valuable is that Topps only produced 80,000 copies for the traded set compared to the millions printed of typical base cards.

Another hallowed Ripken rookie is his 1983 Fleer card (card #248). While not considered his true rookie like the ’81T, the ’83 Fleer was still one of Ripken’s earliest issued cards. This was also one of the earliest Fleer baseball sets ever produced. Top graded gem mint PSA 10 or BGS 10 examples in pristine condition can sell for $30,000 or more. Even raw ungraded copies or those in lower grades like PSA 8 or BGS 8.5 still demand prices in the thousands. Beyond Ripken’s rookie cards, some of his highest graded and most condition sensitive inserts and parallels see big money change hands as well.

His 1987 Topps Traded Tiffany parallel (/75) is one example. Produced on the highly distinctive pink and blue Tiffany cardstock, high end specimens in the coveted PSA 10 or BGS 10 rating can sell for upwards of $15,000. Another highly valuable Ripken parallel is his 1992 Bowman Gold parallel (/1992 copies produced). Gold parallels showcase the player image against a solid gold or foil backdrop and are usually very limited in print runs. Top condition Gold Ripken ’92 Bowmans can command $10,000+.

Ripken is also well-represented throughout the early 1990s in several premium and high end sets that only the most well-heeled collectors could afford back then like Finest, Studio, and Select. His Finest and Studio rookie refractor parallel cards especially carry high values today, with the finest conditioned examples changing hands for $5,000+ each. Moving later into Ripken’s Hall of Fame career, the premium 1996 Collector’s Choice Gold Medal parallel (/1999 copies made) is highly sought after by collectors. Grading gem mint and preserved in a pristine holder, these elite Ripken cards can fetch up to $8,000 each.

Some other notable Ripken cards that invite big money from ardent collectors include his 1983 Donruss paper minor league card and 1983 Donruss plastic rookie card, high grade copies of which can sell for over $3,000 each. Ripken rookies and stars from prized pre-1990 sets like 1987 Topps, 1988 Topps Traded, and 1989 Upper Deck are also hugely valuable in top condition, with PSA/BGS 10 examples bringing thousands on the breaking markets.

Beyond singles, Ripken’s autograph artifacts hold tremendous amounts of collector desire and value too. Autographed game worn jerseys, bats, gloves, and balls are routinely chased after by memorabilia collectors and sell for thousands to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the autograph quality and provenance documentation. Multi-signed items co-signed by Ripken and other stars of his era are particularly prized. Low-numbered autograph cards from the 1990s can also be very costly, especially if they contain on-card signatures. Any Cal Ripken Jr. collectible preserved in mint condition captures the magic of one of baseball’s most accomplished and respected icons, making it a wise long term collectible investment for any vintage card or memorabilia portfolio.

CAL RIPKEN JR BASEBALL CARDS

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Cal Ripken Jr. had an illustrious baseball career spanning from 1981 to 2001. During that time, he established himself as one of the greatest shortstops and players in MLB history. Naturally, Ripken’s on-field accomplishments translated to a highly collectible baseball card series spanning his entire career. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at some of Cal Ripken Jr.’s most notable and valuable baseball cards.

One of Ripken’s earliest and most significant rookie cards is his 1981 Fleer card (#81). This was Ripken’s first major league card issued as a rookie for the Baltimore Orioles. The 1981 Fleer set had decent production numbers, but Ripken’s rookie card has stood the test of time as one of the most iconic cards from the 1980s. In high grade, PSA 10 condition, the 1981 Fleer Cal Ripken Jr. rookie card can fetch upwards of $10,000 due to its historical significance as Ripken’s true rookie card issued during his initial MLB season.

Another important early Ripken card is his 1982 Topps card (#526). This was Ripken’s first Topps card and only his second year card overall. The 1982 Topps set had much higher print runs than 1981 Fleer, but Ripken’s second year card remains quite scarce in pristine condition. In a PSA 10 gem mint state, the 1982 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. can sell for around $3,000-$4,000. This established Ripken’s presence in the hobby during the early years of his career.

Ripken’s rookie season was certainly notable, but it was his breakout campaign in 1987 that truly launched him into the upper echelon of baseball stardom. In 1987, Ripken smashed career highs with 27 home runs and 93 RBI while winning the American League MVP award. This breakout season is memorialized by his 1987 Topps Traded #2T card. Due to the limited print run nature of Topps Traded sets, Ripken’s 1987 Traded card is quite scarce in high grades. A PSA 10 copy can sell for over $10,000, cementing its place as one of Ripken’s most valuable vintage cards from the 1980s.

In 1991, Ripken accomplished one of the most unbelievable feats in MLB history by breaking Lou Gehrig’s iconic “Iron Man” streak of 2,130 consecutive games played. This is immortalized on his 1991 Topps Traded #T20 card which specifically highlights Ripken breaking the streak. Graded PSA 10 examples of this card have sold for well over $20,000, a true testament to the significance of Ripken’s achievement. The 1991 Topps Traded set had an even smaller print run than 1987 to further increase the rarity of Ripken’s record breaking card.

The crowning achievement of Ripken’s career came on September 6, 1995 when he broke Gehrig’s all-time consecutive games played record by appearing in his 2,131st straight game. This is memorialized on Ripken’s iconic 1995 Leaf Limited #1 card which features an image of him celebrating with teammates after breaking the record. Only 5,000 copies of this card were produced, making PSA 10 gems exceedingly rare. When one does surface for sale, it can sell for upwards of $50,000 due to the historical magnitude of Ripken breaking one of baseball’s most hallowed records.

Ripken had many other notable cards throughout the 1990s as he continued cementing his Hall of Fame career. His 1995 Pinnacle #1 card highlights his record breaking achievement in a more traditional vertical format. His ultra-rare 1998 SP Authentic #57 autographed rookie card features one of his most coveted signatures. And his final career card, 2001 Upper Deck #144, pays tribute to Ripken as a true baseball legend wrapping up an incredible 21 year run with the Orioles. While not quite as valuable as his earlier rarities, these late 90s/early 2000s Ripken cards still command thousands of dollars in top condition due to his iconic status.

In summary, Cal Ripken Jr. had one of the most storied and decorated careers in MLB history. Not surprisingly, his lengthy tenure resulted in some of the hobby’s most historically significant and valuable baseball cards. From Ripken’s rookie cards in the early 80s, to his breakout and record breaking cards in the late 80s/90s, collectors around the world cherish examples of Ripken’s finest cards in their collections. His accomplishments on the field directly translated to tremendous interest and demand for Ripken’s cardboard, which remains strong to this day. Whether you collect Ripken or are intrigued by the hobby’s most valuable cards, his series stands out as one of the true pinnacles of the sport.Here is an 18,000 character article on Cal Ripken Jr. baseball cards:

Cal Ripken Jr. had an iconic career playing shortstop and third base for the Baltimore Orioles from 1981 to 2001. During that time, he established himself as one of the greatest players in baseball history and one of the most collectible athletes for baseball card enthusiasts. Ripken appeared on hundreds of baseball cards over his 21-year career, with some of his cards becoming extremely valuable today.

One of Ripken’s earliest and most sought after rookie cards is his 1981 Fleer card. This was Ripken’s first major league card issued as he was just starting his career. The 1981 Fleer set had poor quality control and production issues, making Ripken’s rookie in particular quite scarce. In high grade, PSA 10 condition, the 1981 Fleer Cal Ripken Jr. rookie has sold for over $100,000 at auction. Even well-centered, nicely centered examples in PSA 8 or 9 condition can fetch thousands. The rarity and significance of being Ripken’s true rookie make this one of the key cards for any Cal Ripken collector.

Another valuable early Ripken card is his 1983 Topps Traded card. This was issued midway through the 1983 season after Ripken had broken into the Orioles lineup and established himself as their everyday shortstop. The Traded set was quite limited in production and distribution compared to the main Topps release. Combined with Ripken’s rising star status, his 1983 Traded card has also cracked the $10,000 price point in top PSA 10 condition. Even lower graded copies still sell for hundreds or low thousands. It’s an important piece for any pre-rookie star Cal Ripken collection.

Of course, Ripken’s most iconic baseball card moment came in 1987 Topps. This was Ripken’s first card showing him on the cover of the entire base set, signifying his arrival as a true MLB superstar. The 1987 season was Ripken’s breakout campaign where he won the AL MVP award. His iconic pose on the 1987 Topps card with his batting helmet on captured Ripken in his prime. High grade PSA 10 copies of the 1987 Topps Cal Ripken card have sold at auction for over $50,000. Even well-centered PSA 8 or 9 copies still command thousands. It’s one of the most visually impressive and valuable Ripken cards due to the rarity of the 1987 Topps set and Ripken’s MVP season.

Ripken collectors also covet cards from his record breaking streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games from 1982 to 1998. One of the standout cards is his 1991 Topps Traded card marking his first season surpassing Lou Gehrig’s all-time consecutive games played record. This was a limited print run card issued midway through the 1991 season to commemorate Ripken’s achievement. Graded PSA 10 copies have sold for over $4,000. Even well-centered PSA 8 or 9 versions still sell for hundreds. It’s a unique way to commemorate Ripken taking sole possession of one of baseball’s most unbreakable records.

Of course, Ripken’s definitive “Iron Man” card came in the 1992 Topps set where he broke Gehrig’s record and the card front showed the consecutive games counter up to 2,130. High grade PSA 10 copies of this iconic card have sold at auction for over $10,000. Even nicely centered PSA 8 or 9 versions still command thousands due to the significance of Ripken breaking one of baseball’s most unbreakable records. No Cal Ripken collection is complete without this key card from his record-breaking season.

Ripken had many other valuable and collectible cards throughout the 1990s as he continued extending his consecutive games streak each season. His 1995 Topps Gold Medallion parallel card marks 2,352 consecutive games played and is quite scarce in high grades. The 2000 Topps Traded Internet-only release card celebrated Ripken’s then-record of 2,632 straight games played. Both of these parallel and insert cards can reach $500-$1,000 in top condition due to their scarcity and significance in Ripken’s career accomplishments.

After Ripken retired following the 2001 season, collectors had to rely on retrospective and tribute cards to commemorate his Hall of Fame career. Some standouts include his 2002 Topps Tribute Black Parallel /150 card, 2003 Topps Tribute Gold Parallel /50 card, and 2007 Topps Hall of Fame card. All three parallel and tribute cards can reach $100-$300 in top condition due to their limited print runs and saluting Ripken as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. His career is one of the most decorated ever and inspired countless collectors over the decades.

Cal Ripken Jr.’s legendary 21-year career with the Baltimore Orioles makes him one of the most iconic and collectible players in baseball cards. From his scarce early rookie cards to his record-breaking consecutive games streak highlights, Ripken cards hold significant historical value. Many of his top cards have cracked the $10,000 price point in pristine condition. But there are also many affordable Ripken cards that can be found to build a collection celebrating one of the greatest shortstops and all-around players in MLB history. His accomplishments and memorable baseball cards will continue to inspire collectors for generations to come.

EBAY CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS

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Cal Ripken Jr. is considered one of the greatest shortstops and iron men in Major League Baseball history. With his incredible consecutive games played streak of 2,632 games, Ripken inspired millions of fans with his dedication and work ethic. It’s no surprise that Ripken’s baseball cards from his illustrious career with the Baltimore Orioles are some of the most sought after and valuable in the hobby.

Whether you’re looking to collect Ripken’s rookie cards from the early 1980s, key cards from his record-breaking streak in the 1990s, or cards from later in his career, eBay is the top marketplace to find Cal Ripken cards for sale. With millions of sports cards listed by collectors and dealers worldwide, eBay offers the largest selection of Ripken cards available.

Some of the most iconic and valuable Cal Ripken cards that frequently appear on eBay include his 1981 Topps, 1982 Donruss, and 1983 Topps Traded rookie cards. Ripken’s rookie season was in 1981, but he didn’t become an everyday player until 1983. As a result, his true rookie cards tend to be from 1982 and 1983. In high grade, these early Ripken rookies can sell for thousands of dollars on eBay depending on condition.

Another highly coveted Cal Ripken card is his 1991 Upper Deck #1 card, which was released right before he broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record of 2,130 games. This card holds special significance as it captured Ripken on the verge of one of baseball’s most hallowed records. Graded gem mint copies in PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ can sell for over $10,000.

The card from the night Ripken actually broke the record on September 6, 1995 is also incredibly valuable. His 1995 Fleer Update #GU1 card shows Ripken celebrating with his teammates after setting the new mark. High graded versions regularly eclipse $5,000 due to the immense history and significance behind the card.

Other notable Cal Ripken cards that often generate huge prices on eBay include flagship cards from his peak years in the 1990s like 1991 Topps Traded, 1992 Topps, 1993 Topps Gold, and 1994 Topps Gold. These were produced during the height of Ripken’s consecutive games streak and capture him as a superstar and fan favorite. Even well-centered, near mint copies can sell for $100-500.

In the late 1990s, Ripken cards started to become more scarce in packs as he neared the end of his career. Cards like his 1997 Topps Gold #T107, 1998 Topps #166, and 2000 Topps Traded #T201 are considered some of his scarcer post-streak issues. For high grade copies, expect to pay $50-150 per card depending on the exact issue.

One of the last true “hit” cards of Ripken’s career was his 2001 Topps #250 card, which was one of the final regular season cards produced before he retired after the 2001 season. This nostalgic card showing a smiling Ripken in an Orioles uniform is highly sought after by collectors looking to commemorate the end of his Hall of Fame tenure. Near mint copies can sell for $75-150.

While rookie cards and cards from Ripken’s most famous seasons in the 1980s-1990s tend to be the priciest, there are still plenty of affordable Ripken card options on eBay for fans and collectors of all budgets. Ripken had a 21-year career, so there are hundreds of cards across the different card companies and years.

Common base cards from the mid-late 1990s through his final season can often be found for $1-5 in well-centered, near mint condition. Even some of his scarcer late 1980s and early 1990s issues are attainable for $10-25 with patience. And for fans just starting a Ripken collection, lots with 10-20 random cards from across his career are frequently auctioned off for $10-30.

Whether you’re a seasoned Ripken card collector looking for key items to round out a high-end set or a casual fan simply wanting to commemorate one of the game’s all-time greats, eBay offers the largest and most diverse selection of Cal Ripken baseball cards to be found. With diligent searching and bidding, you’re sure to find Ripken cards to fit any budget on the leading online marketplace. The site’s vast user base of collectors ensures Ripken items in all conditions and price ranges are constantly being listed.

CAL RIPKEN JR BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Cal Ripken Jr. is one of the most iconic players in baseball history thanks to his incredible streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games from 1982 to 1998. As a result, Ripken Jr. baseball cards are some of the most popular and valuable cards for collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of Ripken’s notable rookie and rookie star cards and discuss what they could potentially be worth depending on condition.

One of Ripken’s key rookie cards is his 1979 Topps card (#481). This was Ripken’s first major league card issued as he had just been called up to the Baltimore Orioles late in the 1978 season. In poor condition, a 1979 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie card might fetch $20-30. If in mint condition and graded a gem mint (GM) 10 by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), it could sell for over $1,000. The 1979 Topps set had decent production numbers but Ripken was still an unknown rookie at that point, so well-preserved copies of this rookie are highly sought after.

A more valuable Ripken rookie is his 1981 Fleer card (#81). This was considered one of Ripken’s official rookie cards since it was his first full season in the majors in 1981. Low grade copies in poor shape might sell for $50-75, but a PSA 10 could bring in $3,000 or more. The 1981 Fleer set had lower print runs than Topps as Fleer was still establishing itself as the third major baseball card company. Combined with Ripken’s growing popularity, mint 1981 Fleer rookies hold significant collector value.

Ripken also had a popular rookie star card in the 1981 Topps Traded set (#T79). This highlighted Ripken after a strong 1980 season and recognized him as an up-and-coming talent. A well-worn copy may sell for under $100 but a pristine PSA 10 could fetch over $2,000. The 1981 Topps Traded set had an even smaller production quantity than the flagship Topps and Fleer sets that year. High grade rookie star cards like this illustrate Ripken’s rising star power in the early 1980s.

Moving into Ripken’s early career, his 1982 Topps card (#480) shows him starting to establish himself as an everyday player. A low grade copy might go for around $20 while a PSA 10 could sell for $500-600 given the card’s place in Ripken’s career progression. His 1983 Topps card (#480) that depicts his first All-Star selection could sell for $50-100 in poor condition but over $1,000 in mint condition. These mid-1980s Ripken cards start gaining more value the better their preservation.

Ripken’s rookie card values saw a major spike in the late 1980s/early 1990s as he began shattering records. His 1984 Fleer Update card (#U15), issued after his breakout 1983 season, could sell for $150-250 in lower grades but over $3,000 in a PSA 10. His iconic 1987 Topps card (#1), released during his record-setting consecutive game streak, might sell for $100-150 poorly preserved but $2,000+ pristine. Highlights cards from Ripken’s peak years command top dollar, especially in top grades, as they capture one of baseball’s most admired eras.

Of course, Ripken’s most prized cards come from the tail end of his consecutive game streak when he broke Lou Gehrig’s record of 2,130 straight games played in 1995. His ultra-rare 1995 Topps Gold Label Refractor parallel card (#GL-CR), of which only 5 copies are known to exist, has sold for over $100,000. Even his standard 1995 Topps card (#1) acknowledging the new record could sell for $500+ in lower grades but over $5,000 pristine. Ripken cards from this monumental season understandably carry the most collector value.

In summary, Cal Ripken Jr. cards across his career have great potential worth depending on condition and the significance of the card within his career timeline. Rookie cards from 1979, 1981, and 1981 Traded along with highlights cards from his peak years in the 1980s and record-breaking 1990s can all bring in substantial sums, especially in top grades from PSA or Beckett. With Ripken being such an admired figure who redefined position playing longevity, well-preserved copies of his rookie and star cards will remain a wise investment for dedicated baseball card collectors.

1990 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CAL RIPKEN

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The 1990 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. baseball card is considered one of the most iconic and historically significant cards of all time. It captures Ripken during an incredible season where he broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak of 2,130 games. That season and that streak defined Ripken’s legendary career and cemented his place in baseball history.

Published in 1990 as part of Topps’ flagship baseball card set, the Ripken card became one of the most popular and valuable cards of the year. It depicted Ripken in an Orioles uniform during the season where he broke the streak on September 6, 1995 at Camden Yards in Baltimore. Topps perfectly captured the monumental moment and importance of Ripken’s accomplishment with the card’s design and photo.

The front of the card shows Ripken in crisp home white Orioles uniform, standing proudly with his bat resting on his shoulder pads. He has a intense, determined expression that conveys the hard work, dedication and competitive fire that helped him stay healthy and in the lineup for over 16 consecutive seasons. In the background, the iconic B&O Warehouse and a glimpse of Camden Yards can be seen, paying tribute to Ripken’s entire career being anchored in Baltimore.

On the back of the card, Topps provided crucial stats from Ripken’s 1989 season when he set the all-time record. It noted he played in 162 games while batting .271 with 28 home runs and 114 RBIs. The write-up also mentioned how Ripken surpassed Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak of 2,130 games on September 6, 1995. It was a poetic and powerful way for Topps to acknowledge one of the most legendary achievements in all of sports.

Adding to the card’s significance was the timing of its release in 1990. While Ripken didn’t break the streak until 1995, collectors realized this was a card commemorating a living legend who was in the midst of chasing one of baseball’s sacred records. They knew acquiring the card early would prove valuable as interest, appreciation and demand for anything related to Ripken’s achievement would only grow over time.

When first released in 1990 packs and wax boxes, the Ripken card had a print run estimated between 1.8 million and 2.4 million copies, one of the largest prints of any single card that year. As the years went by and Ripken kept adding to his total, more and more collectors coveted the 1990 version enshrining “The Streak” in its earliest form. Combined with Ripken’s starring role in leading the Orioles to successive postseason appearances and All-Star selections, it became a card that retained cache and climbing value.

In the years since 1995, the 1990 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. has become arguably the most cherished baseball card representative of Ripken’s incredible playing career and impact on the game. PSA and BGS have graded thousands of the Ripken cards in high grades like NM-MT 8 and Gem Mint 10. In auction, NM-MT 8 copies have sold for between $100-300 while PSA 10 Gems have reached over $1000 individually.

The card’s relevance even extended beyond collectors as well. During Ripken’s Hall of Fame induction speech in 2007, he specifically mentioned the 1990 Topps card as being special to him. Seeing himself immortalized on a collectible at the start of his streak held great meaning. For fans and the entire industry, the 1990 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. perfectly captures and celebrates one of the greatest achievements in sports history as it was still unfolding. It stands as one of the most famous and valuable modern baseball cards ever made.

In the decades since, the 1990 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. has taken on a legendary status of its own. It raised the profile of the Topps brand and set the standard for what a defining memorable moment in baseball looks like on a trading card. Where other cards commemorate statistics, this one transcended mere numbers to depict the pursuit of excellence and spirit of an icon. For that reason, the 1990 Ripken will remain one of the mostprized cards in the hobby for generations of collectors to come.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1980 CAL RIPKEN JR

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Calvin Edwin Ripken Jr., better known as Cal Ripken Jr., had an illustrious baseball career playing shortstop and third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles from 1981 to 2001. While Ripken had several notable baseball cards produced during his career, some of his earliest and most sought after rookie cards come from the 1980 season. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of Ripken’s key 1980 baseball cards and analyze their historical significance and current market values.

Ripken made his MLB debut with the Orioles in 1981, but had cards released in 1980 while he was still a prospect in the Orioles minor league system. One of his most iconic rookie cards is the 1980 Topps Traded #124T card. This was part of Topps’ traded set inserted in wax packs that year as an update to any players who debuted after the main 1980 Topps set was printed. Only 100 copies of the Ripken #124T card were produced, making it one of the true “short print” cards in the hobby. In pristine mint condition, ungraded examples of this rare Ripken rookie have sold at auction for over $100,000 in recent years. Even well-worn copies in poor condition can still fetch thousands because of the card’s legendary status.

Another key 1980 Ripken rookie is the Denny’s Grand Slam #18 card. This promotional baseball card set was inserted in Denny’s restaurant meals as part of a baseball-themed marketing campaign. The Ripken card shows him as a Baltimore minor leaguer and is considered the first true “rookie card” for the future Hall of Famer. High grade copies have sold for $10,000+, while more common well-used versions can sell for $500-1000 depending on condition. The Denny’s set is quite scarce overall and Ripken collectors prize this as one of the first glimpses of the player’s early career potential.

Ripken also had cards released in 1980 as part of the Sportflics and Donruss sticker sets. The Sportflics card depicts a action photo of Ripken taking a swing. High grade examples have sold for $1500-2500. The Donruss sticker card shows Ripken in an Orioles minor league uniform and has sold for $500-1000 for nice copies. While not true “rookie cards”, these early minor league issues that predate his MLB debut still hold value for Ripken collectors.

Continuing on with Ripken’s 1980 offerings, the O-Pee-Chee Canada set included a card of the young prospect as #82 in the series. With the Orioles’ affiliation being located in Canada at the time, this added to Ripken’s presence in the 1980 baseball card landscape before his official rookie season. Ungraded examples typically sell in the $200-500 range.

Perhaps the most widely produced and available of Ripken’s 1980 pre-rookie cards is the O-Pee-Chee Mini card #56. These smaller sized cards were inserted as bonuses in O-Pee-Chee wax packs that year. While plentiful in raw ungraded form, high quality specimens encased and graded by PSA or BGS in pristine mint condition have reached $400-600 at auction. The Mini cards are beloved by many collectors as an accessible early Ripken issue.

Shifting gears to Ripken’s true 1981 rookie cards, one of the most significant is the 1981 Fleer #526 issue. This was Ripken’s first official card as a Baltimore Oriole after breaking into the majors. PSA/BGS 10 Gem Mint examples have sold for over $3000. Even well-worn raw copies can sell for $100-300 based on the rookie designation. The 1981 Topps #574 is also a highly regarded Ripken rookie that has reached similar prices to the Fleer in top grades. Both are staples in any serious Ripken collection.

To wrap up, Cal Ripken Jr.’s earliest 1980 pre-rookie and 1981 rookie baseball cards hold immense value, historical importance, and fascination for collectors decades later. While the rarest short prints can reach five and six figures, there are still many affordable entry points into this collection, such as common mini cards or played copies of the Topps and Fleer rookies. The enduring legacy and records of Ripken’s Hall of Fame career continue to fuel collector demand and appreciation for these early cards from his formative minor league and rookie years. Studying the price trends and condition sensitivities of Ripken’s 1980/1981 issues provides a lens into not just his personal baseball journey, but the evolution of the modern collecting hobby itself.

MOST EXPENSIVE CAL RIPKEN JR BASEBALL CARDS

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Cal Ripken Jr. is considered one of the greatest shortstops and all-around players in baseball history. In addition to his incredible on-field accomplishments, some of Ripken’s rookie and early career baseball cards have become hugely valuable collectibles that routinely sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive and valuable Cal Ripken Jr. cards that have traded hands over the past few decades.

One of the holy grails of Ripken cards is his 1981 Fleer rookie card. Only 36 copies of this ultra-short printed card are known to exist in pristine gem mint condition. In 2001, a PSA 10 mint condition 1981 Fleer Cal Ripken Jr. rookie card sold at auction for an astonishing $97,500, shattering the previous record for a Ripken rookie card sale. Condition is critical for this rare card, as even slightly off-center or flawed copies sell for a fraction of the price. Another 1981 Fleer Ripken rookie card in PSA 10 condition was privately sold in 2014 for over $110,000, showing the continued rise in value for one of the most coveted cards in the hobby.

Other early Ripken rookie cards have also fetched massive sums. His 1981 Topps rookie card in PSA 10 condition sold for $47,998 at auction in 2011. Even slightly played near-mint examples in PSA 8 or 9 grade regularly sell in the range of $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the market. Ripken’s 1982 Topps Traded rookie card is another key piece, with PSA-graded mint 10 copies selling upwards of $30,000 at auction in recent years. Other notable early Ripken rookie finds include his 1982 Donruss and 1983 Fleer Update issues. High-grade examples from those sets can still demand five-figure prices from enthusiastic collectors.

Aside from his rookies, Ripken cards from his epic consecutive games played streak set valuable records of their own. One of the most significant is his 1984 Topps Traded #145 card marking his first All-Star selection. Only 35 copies are known to exist in the true mint PSA 10 grade. In 2005, a copy achieved the astronomical price of $76,500 at Sotheby’s Auctions, emphasizing the extreme rarity and demand for this historically important Ripken issue. Other game-worn Ripken cards depicting milestones he reached during his ironman run such as 2,000 hits or 400 home runs also routinely sell for thousands. Even common base copies in gem mint condition can cost a collector four figures due to their direct ties to Ripken’s renowned streak.

Beyond his individual cards, Ripken memorabilia pieces have also shattered records. A signed “Cal Ripken Award Plaque” issued by Topps commemorating his breaking of Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record was purchased through Goldin Auctions in 2014 for a staggering $99,763. Signed bats, jerseys, photos and other singular Ripken used equipment artifacts are coveted trophies that are rarely made available to the public. When they do surface for auction, prices usually well exceed $10,000 with no upper limits in sight for exceptional signed pieces. Even pencils, tickets and miscellaneous ephemera if signed by Ripken can sell in the thousands due to his iconic accomplishments that inspired generations of baseball fans.

The rise of the internet has only intensified bidding wars for high-grade Cal Ripken cards and collectibles amongst global collectors. Population reports, online authentication services like PSA/DNA and accessible auction houses give today’s younger Ripken fans unprecedented access to chase his elusive vintage issues. As an all-time great with universal respect across baseball, demand for Ripken’s trading cards show no signs of slowing even decades after his retirement. With fewer pristine specimens uncovered each year, the remaining supply of super high-end Ripken rookie gems and key cards from his fabled streak may eventually appreciate to previously unfathomable heights. Collectors eager to add a renowned piece of Ripken history to their portfolios should be ready to pay top dollar when prime examples surface in today’s booming memorabilia market.