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CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Cal Ripken Jr. is undoubtedly one of the greatest shortstops and players in Major League Baseball history. Over his 21-year career spent entirely with the Baltimore Orioles, Ripken established himself as an iron man with his record streak of 2,632 consecutive games played. He was a two-time American League MVP, 19-time All-Star, and key member of the Orioles’ 1983 World Series championship team. Given his iconic status, it’s no surprise that Cal Ripken Jr. baseball cards are highly coveted by collectors.

On the modern online marketplace of eBay, there is no shortage of Ripken cards available for collectors trying to add pieces of his career to their collections. Some of his most common and affordable rookie and early career cards include his 1983 Topps, 1984 Topps, 1985 Topps, and 1986 Topps base cards. These can often be found in raw, ungraded condition anywhere from $5-20 depending on the specific card and its condition. For those looking to acquire Ripken’s true rookie card from his partial 1982 season call-up, his 1982 Fleer card is considered the rarest of his early issues. In low grade conditions, expect to pay at least $50-75 but upwards of several hundred for high grade copies.

For collectors seeking Ripken’s defining playing years during Baltimore’s pennant races and World Series appearances in the late 1980s and 1990s, his 1987-1995 Topps issues are plentiful on eBay in prices ranging from under $10 up to $50-100 for nicely centered near-mint copies. Ripken mania reached its peak during his record-breaking streak, making his 1991-2001 Topps and other brand cards the most common on the market. Pristine, high graded 10s of these can still fetch $100-300 each due to the nostalgia and history behind Ripken’s iconic streak.

Upper-tier collectors may have their sights set on some of Ripken’s scarcer and more valuable vintage issues. His 1984 Fleer Update card, which was one of the first Update Set cards ever issued, can be a big ticket item grading a 9+ with prices eclipsing $500. Other notable scarce Ripken cards include his 1984 Fleer Sticker card, 1986 Fleer Update card, and 1992 Leaf Best card, all of which can reach $200-500 in top condition. Perhaps the true holy grail of Ripken’s early collecting period is his ultra-rare 1984 Fleer Sticker Refractor parallel. Only about 10 are known to exist, and pristine PSA/BGS 10 examples have sold at auction for astronomical sums approaching $20,000.

Nostalgia for Ripken’s playing days remains strong, as evidenced by some modern parallel and insert cards continuing to hold value. His 1991-1998 Ultra, Finest, and other premium parallel issues from the late 90s boom period can be found grading 9s for $50-150 depending on the specific parallel and year. Collector interest has also driven up prices on Ripken’s rare serially numbered refractors, printing plates, and 1/1 game-used memorabilia cards from the 2000s and 2010s. For example, his 2001 Topps Chrome Refractor /150 recently sold for over $1,000 in BGS 9.5 condition. Even base rookies and early commons from Ripken’s post-playing career products like Upper Deck Retired collection and Topps Tribute continue to sell in the $5-20 range.

When it comes to the condition and quality of Ripken cards on eBay, there is a wide range but savvy collectors know to focus on centering, corners and edges above all else for this demanding hobby. Ripken rookies and vintage issues especially are prone to poor centering challenges straight from the pack. As such, examples grading high 9s or pristine 10s from services like PSA, BGS, SGC command big premiums over raw copies or lower graded counterparts. It’s also wise to scrutinize scans and descriptions closely for issues like creases, stains or print defects that could diminish a card’s eye appeal and value. As with collecting any star from Ripken’s era, authenticity is paramount – reputable eBay sellers with positive feedback are highly recommended.

For the true Cal Ripken Jr. superfan, there are also one-of-a-kind game used memorabilia cards available through online auctions. Examples would include his autographed and inscription cards from sets like 2002 Topps Tribute, 2007 Topps Triple Threads, and 2016 Topps Archives Signature Series. The crown jewels though are undoubtedly Ripken’s game-used bat, glove, or jersey relic cards. Recently a one-of-one 2007 Topps Triple Threads patch card featuring a swatch from Ripken’s final MLB at-bat sold for over $4,000. And in 2020, his 2000 Upper Deck Game Jersey relic fetched nearly $10,000. While out of reach for most collectors, such truly unique pieces show that Ripken mania is as strong as ever among the most dedicated fans and investors.

eBay provides a lively marketplace for Cal Ripken Jr. collectors of all levels to pursue their favorite pieces from a truly legendary career. With patience and diligence, affordable copies of Ripken rookies and commons can still be found. But for those seeking condition-graded gems or one-of-a-kind game-used artifacts, deep pockets are usually required. No matter the budget though, eBay allows Ripken fans worldwide to grow their collections and reminisce about the accomplishments of baseball’s “Iron Man.” His iconic status ensures strong demand and appreciation for Ripken cards for generations to come.

CAL RIPKEN JR BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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Cal Ripken Jr. had one of the most impressive baseball careers of all time. From 1981 to 2001, Ripken played his entire career with the Baltimore Orioles and established himself as one of the greatest shortstops and iron men in MLB history. With such an outstanding career on the field, it’s no surprise that many of Ripken’s baseball cards from over the years have gained significant value in the collectibles market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the key Cal Ripken Jr. cards that are worth money for collectors.

One of the most valuable Ripken rookie cards is his 1981 Fleer card. This was Ripken’s first ever major league card issued as he was just starting out his career. The condition of the card plays a huge role in its value, but gem mint condition 1981 Fleer Ripken rookies in a PSA 10 grade have sold for over $100,000. Even well-centered and sharp examples in PSA 8 or 9 condition can fetch thousands. The 1981 Fleer set had a small print run and Ripken went on to have a Hall of Fame career, so his rookie card remains highly sought after.

Another prized early Ripken card is his 1983 Topps Traded card. This was issued midway through Ripken’s sophomore season and captured him on the rise as an everyday player. High grade ’83 Topps Traded Ripkens in PSA 10 can sell for around $15,000-$20,000. Like the ’81 Fleer, the condition is critical – but overall the ’83 Traded has proven to be one of Ripken’s most valuable pre-rookie cards. The set’s short print run of only 100 cards enhances its collectibility.

Ripken’s true rookie card debut came in 1983 Topps, and gems of this card can also hold substantial value. A PSA 10 ’83 Topps Ripken rookie recently sold for over $12,000. Most grade between $500-$2,000 depending on condition. This was Ripken’s first “official” rookie as recognized by the major sportscard companies. The ’83 Topps set had much higher print numbers than Ripken’s earlier cards, but it remains a key piece for any Ripken collector.

Moving into Ripken’s breakout seasons, his 1984 Fleer Update card stands out. This captured Ripken winning the AL Rookie of the Year award and was one of the first cards to highlight his rising star power. High grade ’84 Fleer Updates have sold in the $4,000 range. Even well-centered near-mint copies can sell for $1,000 or more. The card’s rarity and Ripken’s rookie success make it a valuable part of his early collection.

Ripken’s 1987 Topps Traded card is another major key card as it commemorated his first All-Star selection. PSA 10 copies have sold for around $3,000, with most others in the $500-$1,000 range depending on condition. This was one of the earliest Traded cards to feature Ripken and highlight his ascension among the game’s elite. It remains a cornerstone in any Ripken collection.

Jumping to Ripken’s peak years, his 1991 Topps Traded card stands out tremendously. This was issued during Ripken’s record-breaking consecutive games streak and captured him on the cusp of baseball immortality. High grade ’91 Topps Traded Ripkens in a PSA 10 grade have sold for over $10,000. Even well-centered PSA 8 or 9 copies can bring $2,000-$4,000. This is widely considered one of Ripken’s most iconic and valuable modern cards.

Ripken’s 1993 Topps Finest Refractor parallel stands alongside his ’91 Traded as one of his true holy grail cards. The ’93 Finest set introduced refractor parallel versions that were one-in-every-two packs and captured the early-90s refractor craze. High grade Ripken refractors have sold in excess of $20,000. Even well-centered near-mint copies can sell for $5,000-$10,000 due to the card’s rarity, condition challenges, and capturing Ripken at the height of his powers. This remains the crown jewel for many serious Ripken collectors.

Shifting to Ripken’s post-streak years, his 1996 Topps Gold Label parallel remains a highly sought-after modern Ripken card. The Gold Label parallels featured an attractive gold foil treatment and were one-in-every-72 packs. High grade ’96 Gold Label Ripkens have sold for over $3,000. Even well-centered near-mint copies typically sell for $1,000-$2,000. This was one of Ripken’s last major modern parallels before retirement and has proven to hold strong collector demand.

In summarizing, the holy grails for any Cal Ripken Jr. card collection would have to include a high grade ’81 Fleer rookie, ’83 Topps Traded, ’91 Topps Traded, and ’93 Finest Refractor. There are many other Ripken cards throughout his career that can hold significant value depending on the grade, including his other early 1980s/rookie cards, milestone/award cards, and select parallel and insert cards capturing Ripken during his peak years and record-breaking consecutive games streak. With such an incredible career spanning over two decades, Ripken has left behind one of the most valuable modern baseball card portfolios. His cards continue to be highly sought after by collectors appreciating all Ripken accomplished on the diamond.

CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS WORTH

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Cal Ripken Jr. had one of the most impressive baseball careers of all time. As a shortstop and third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles from 1981 to 2001, Ripken established himself as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. He holds the record for consecutive games played with 2,632 straight games played over 16 full seasons. Ripken’s legendary streak and accomplishments made him one of the most popular and recognizable players of the late 20th century. As a result, Ripken’s rookie cards and other notable baseball cards from his career are among the most valuable in the hobby.

One of Ripken’s flagship rookie cards is his 1983 Fleer card. As one of Ripken’s earliest baseball cards issued when he broke into the majors as a prospect for the Orioles, the 1983 Fleer card is a key piece for any Ripken or Orioles collection. In high grade, mint condition examples of Ripken’s 1983 Fleer rookie card can sell for thousands of dollars. A PSA 10 Gem Mint example of this card recently sold for over $8,000. Even well-centered, sharp copies in Excellent-Mint (EX-MT) condition with a grade of PSA 8 or BGS 8.5 can command prices of $500-1000. The 1983 Fleer card is Ripken’s lone rookie issued by Fleer that year and captures him at the beginning of his Hall of Fame career.

Another highly valuable Ripken rookie is his colorful 1983 Topps card. Like the Fleer issue, the ’83 Topps is one of Ripken’s first baseball cards as a big leaguer. High grade PSA 10 copies of this card have sold for over $4,000. PSA 9 Near Mint-Mint and BGS 9 examples typically sell in the $1000-2000 range. Even well-preserved PSA 8 EX-MT or BGS 8 copies can sell for $300-500. The ’83 Topps was Ripken’s true rookie card issued by the card industry’s flagship brand. As such, it remains one of the most iconic and widely collected Ripken cards from his early career.

While not technically a rookie card, Ripken’s 1984 Topps card is also very significant as it captured him after winning the 1983 AL Rookie of the Year award. This card marks Ripken’s first major baseball card issued after winning ROY honors. High grade PSA 10 versions have reached over $1000 at auction. PSA 9/BGS 9 copies usually sell in the $300-500 range. Even mid-grade PSA 8 EX-MT examples can sell for $100-200. The 1984 Topps is a key card to have for any Ripken collector chronicling his early career success and rise to stardom with the Orioles.

Ripken’s record-breaking performance and consecutive games streak in the late 1980s and 1990s made him one of the most popular players in baseball. His 1991 Topps Traded baseball card, issued while he was closing in on Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record, is highly coveted by collectors. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of this card have sold for over $1500. Near-Mint PSA 9 copies typically sell for $500-1000. Even well-preserved PSA 8s can reach $200-300. The 1991 Topps Traded captured Ripken during one of the biggest moments of his career as he was about to surpass one of baseball’s most unbreakable records.

The culmination of Ripken’s consecutive games streak came on September 6, 1995 when he broke Gehrig’s mark of 2,130 straight games played. His 1995 Upper Deck #156 Captures the Moment parallel card commemorates this historic achievement. Only 5,000 of these parallel cards were inserted into 1995 Upper Deck packs to mark the occasion. High grade PSA 10 Gems of this rare parallel have sold for over $5000. Even PSA 9/BGS 9 copies can reach $1000-2000. The 1995 Upper Deck #156 is truly a one-of-a-kind card capturing one of the most iconic moments in baseball history.

Ripken’s career came to an end after the 2001 season having established himself as not just one of the best shortstops ever, but one of the best all-around players of his generation. His final baseball card was issued in the 2001 Topps baseball card set. High grade PSA 10 and BGS 10 copies of this farewell card have reached $400-500. PSA 9/BGS 9 versions typically sell in the $150-250 range. Even well-preserved PSA 8 copies can sell for $50-100. Ripken’s 2001 Topps card serves as a fitting bookend to one of the truly great careers in MLB history.

In summary, Cal Ripken Jr.’s legendary career and record-breaking consecutive games streak made him one of the most collectible players in baseball cards. His rookie cards from 1983 along with notable cards from the 1984, 1991, 1995 and 2001 seasons marking major achievements are highly valued in the hobby. In top grades of Gem Mint PSA 10 or BGS 10, Ripken’s key cards can sell for thousands. But there is also strong demand for high-end Near Mint and lower grade copies as well that still command prices of hundreds due to Ripken’s iconic status in the game. His baseball cards serve as an affordable way for fans to own tangible pieces of one of baseball’s all-time greats.

CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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Cal Ripken Jr. had one of the most impressive baseball careers of all time. As a shortstop and third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles from 1981 to 2001, Ripken established himself as one of the greatest defensive players ever while also being an offensive force for nearly two decades. His incredible streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games is a record that may never be broken. Not only was Ripken a legend on the field, but his baseball cards have become some of the most valuable and sought after in the entire hobby.

Some key factors that make Ripken’s rookie and early career cards so desirable among collectors include his iconic status, the rarity of some of the earlier print runs, and milestones reached on his baseball card journey. Ripken’s rookie card came in the 1981 Topps set. While it saw wide distribution at the time as Ripken was still establishing himself, the 1981 Topps Ripken rookie in pristine near-mint to mint condition can now sell for over $10,000 and grades of gem mint 10 can reach astronomical prices upwards of $50,000.

The scarcity of high graded 1981 Ripken rookies has driven prices up significantly in recent years. Another factor is that Ripken went on to have a Hall of Fame career, making cards from his early years that much more desirable in retrospect. The 1981 Topps Cal Ripken rookie established him as one to watch, but few could predict he’d have a career as great as the one he ended up having. Holding a rookie card of a player who goes on to superstardom and records is part of what makes the hobby so exciting.

A few other notable early Ripken cards that can be worth big money include his 1982 Topps, 1983 Topps Traded, and 1984 Topps Traded cards. The 1982 Topps Ripken is his first base card as an Oriole after breaking into the league with Baltimore the previous season. In gem mint 10 condition, the ’82 Ripken can sell for over $2,000. His 1983 Topps Traded and 1984 Topps Traded cards are more scarce, as they were inserted at lower ratios in the Traded sets. High grades of these cards have sold for $4,000-$6,000 depending on condition.

While Ripken had established himself as an All-Star caliber player by the mid-1980s, one of his most iconic baseball cards came in 1987 Topps. This was the year Ripken broke Lou Gehrig’s consecutive game streak of 2,130 games played. Topps recognized the milestone on Ripken’s 1987 baseball card, making it highly sought after by collectors. In gem mint 10 condition, the 1987 Topps Cal Ripken that acknowledges his breaking of Gehrig’s streak has sold for over $15,000. The rarity and historical significance of this card make it one of the premier Ripken pieces in any collection.

As Ripken’s consecutive games played streak continued growing, so did the attention given to him on his baseball cards. His 1989 Upper Deck RC is a standout, as Upper Deck was a revolutionary new brand that debuted highly designed and photographed cards. The ’89 UD RC features a crisp action shot of Ripken and carries premiums over similar year Topps cards. High grade ’89 UD Ripken RCs have sold in the $4,000 range. His 1990 Score card is also very popular, as it depicts Ripken passing the 2,000 consecutive games played mark with a classy image. In gem mint 10, the 1990 Score Ripken has sold for over $3,000.

By the time Ripken broke Lou Gehrig’s all-time consecutive games record in 1995, he had become a true baseball icon and household name. His 1995 Upper Deck MVP baseball card is one of the most significant in the hobby, as it portrays Ripken holding the record-breaking bat used on September 6, 1995. This coveted card has sold for upwards of $10,000 in pristine condition. Other 1995 Ripken cards like Topps, Fleer, and Score also feature the “Iron Man” breaking the record and hold premium value for collectors. But the 1995 Upper Deck MVP stands out as one of the defining cards from Ripken’s historic career.

As Ripken entered the later stages of his playing days in the late 1990s, the attention on his baseball cards began to shift more toward retrospective appreciation of his amazing consecutive games streak. His final career stats also make for compelling collector pieces. Ripken’s 1997 Upper Deck MVP card sold for over $5,000 in gem mint 10 after he surpassed Lou Gehrig’s all-time record for games played at shortstop in 1996. His 2001 Topps career retrospective sells for $1,000+ in high grades, capping off a Hall of Fame run.

Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie cards, milestone achievements, and career-defining baseball cards hold tremendous value in the hobby. As one of the true iron men of baseball who played more games than anyone ever, Ripken’s on-field greatness is matched by the collecting significance of his early and serially numbered cards. Whether it’s his rookie, milestone markers, or record-breaking issues – Ripken cards remain some of the most sought after and valuable in the hobby. His legacy and consecutive games streak may never be duplicated, further securing Ripken’s place among the all-time greats of both baseball and the collecting world.

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VALUE OF CAL RIPKEN JR BASEBALL CARDS

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Cal Ripken Jr. is undoubtedly one of the most beloved baseball players of all time thanks to his incredible playing career longevity and consistency. As a shortstop and third baseman who played his entire 21-year career with the Baltimore Orioles, Ripken set the Major League record for most consecutive games played with 2,632 straight games played between May 30, 1982 and September 19, 1998. This iconic “Iron Man” streak cemented Ripken’s place in baseball history and made him one of the most collectible players ever on baseball cards.

Even before the consecutive games streak, Ripken rookie cards in the early 1980s held significant value due to his All-Star caliber play and fame as the son of former MLB player and Orioles coach Cal Ripken Sr. One of Ripken’s most valuable early cards is his 1981 Fleer #166 rookie card. In Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition, this Ripken rookie has sold for over $6,000 in recent years. The 1981 Topps #138 Ripken rookie is also highly coveted, with NM-MT examples changing hands for $4,000 or more.

Ripken really began gaining mainstream celebrity status in the late 1980s as baseball card popularity boomed and collectors started to take notice of his incredible ironman streak. His 1986 Topps Traded #76T card, which shows Ripken in an Orioles uniform with the text “1,000 games at shortstop without an error,” can be worth $150+ in good condition today as one of his more distinctive mid-career pieces.

Of course, Ripken’s most iconic and valuable baseball cards come from the early-to-mid 1990s as “The Streak” gained more and more notoriety with each passing game. His 1991 Topps #1 card, 1993 Topps #1 card, and especially his 1995 Topps #1 card highlighting Ripken breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games record are considered true modern hobby grails. Near perfect PSA/BGS 10 examples of these flagship Ripken parallel #1 cards routinely sell for $5,000+ each.

In addition to his standard Topps and Fleer issue cards, several Ripken insert and parallel cards produced in the 1990s hold tremendous value today. The 1992 Topps Gold Cup #R10 card in a PSA/BGS 10 grade has sold for over $8,000 while a 1992 Topps Diamond Kings #DK2 in the same grade traded hands for $6,000. His 1996 Topps Chrome Refractors #213 and #260 are worth $800-1,000 per copy in good condition as well.

Ripken’s last great rookie card came in 1997 Upper Deck, with the #1 card again depicting Ripken prominently as he neared the end of his career. High grade 1997 UD Ripken rookies crack five figures, and even well-centered Near Mint copies can sell for $500-1,000. And for his final season in 2001, collectors sought out Ripken’s cards like crazy to commemorate “The Hammer’s” retirement – his 2001 Topps Traded #TT6 sells for over $100 PSA 10.

As Ripken collectors approach the 21st century, finding high grade copies of his most iconic cards becomes increasingly difficult. As a result, the prices continue to rise for Ripken’s best cards in top condition. A PSA/BGS 10 1995 Topps Ripken parallel #1 recently sold for a staggering $20,000 at auction, while Mint 9 copies trade hands for $5,000-7,000 range. Even more affordable Ripken cardboard from the 1980s and early 1990s that grades excellently can yield four-figure returns.

In the secondary Pop Culture Memorabilia market, game-used, autographed Ripken cards also bring big money. A 1995 Topps Ripken autograph patch card redeemed from an autographed baseball sold for $9,500 in 2019. And a Ripken-signed full baseball jersey card from 1996 Upper Deck sold for $15,000 the same year. With Ripken’s popularity and legend sure to endure for generations, it’s safe to assume demand and values will remain strong on his entire collecting portfolio for years to come. Whether it’s an affordable starting piece or a true condition census card, Cal Ripken Jr.’s accomplishments on and influence off the field make his baseball cards a vital part of the hobby.

As one of the most accomplished and beloved players in MLB history, Cal Ripken Jr. cards hold incredible value – especially his rookie cards from 1981 and parallels from the 1980s/1990s highlighting his consecutive games streak. Flagship Ripken cards grade PSA/BGS 10 continue climbing significantly in price due to rarity, but there are still affordable collecting and investment opportunities to be found across his entire 21-year MLB career if condition and authenticity can be guaranteed. The “Iron Man’s” legendary consistency and longevity helped make him a favorite of collectors worldwide, and that collecting passion endures to this day in the burgeoning market for Ripken’s classic baseball cards.