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1993 SCORE GOLD RUSH BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Score Gold Rush baseball card set was released in 1993 midway through the Major League Baseball season and was unique for focusing exclusively on rare gold foil parallel cards inserted randomly in packs. Score decided to celebrate the gold rush theme in American history by issuing gold parallel versions of regular baseball cards that could be worth significantly more than the base paper cards if pulled from a pack. While not the first brand to issue rare parallel cards, the 1993 Score Gold Rush set helped popularize the concept and added major excitement for collectors searching packs hoping to strike gold.

The 1993 Score Gold Rush set contained all players on Major League rosters at the time of release, so the checklist included over 700 total cards as teams carried larger September expanded rosters. Each traditional base card was printed on standard paper/cardstock and depicted the player along with career statistics and a picture from the current season on the front. The back provided a brief bio. These made up the vast majority of cards in packs but held relatively little value since they were so plentiful.

Score took the novel approach of inserting extremely rare parallel gold foil versions of certain cards randomly in packs sold to retailers. These gold parallels featured the same design and information as the base cards but were printed on a gold metallic foil rather than standard paper/cardstock. They really popped due to the shiny precious metal-like substance used. The exact number of each parallel printed was never revealed by Score, but estimates put each one in the 5-50 copy range, making them hugely scarce collector’s items.

Rumors swirled about bonuses for anyone lucky enough to pull one of the elusive gold parallels. While never officially confirmed, reports indicated anyone finding a gold card could send it back to Score for an additional cash or trade bonus like boxes of extra packs or vintage cards from the company’s archive. The mystery and potential prizes created a fever pitch among collectors desperate to search every pack. Retailers had lines out the door and cases sold out within hours or days as the hunt was on to strike paydirt.

Rookies and young stars held the most coveted gold parallels since they represented potential future Hall of Famers and had strong chances to increase greatly in value over time. Some examples that fetched big money included the Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and Derek Jeter parallels. Even role players and backups gained value simply due to the rarity factor. Anything printed on the precious metal-like foil burst onto the secondary market for huge sums. Stories emerged of parallels selling for thousands within just weeks or months of release.

Overall the 1993 Score Gold Rush set was praised as an innovative and exciting product release that perfectly captured the gold rush fever gripping collectors. The nostalgia of the gold rush theme and allure of potentially striking it rich hitting an ultra-rare parallel in a pack captivated the hobby. While production costs were high due to the scarce parallel printing process, Score saw major profits from increased pack and box sales as everybody wanted in on the action. The gamble paid off tremendously for the brand and established parallel inserts as a must-have collectible element in future releases.

Not all were fans however, as the shortage of parallel cards and perceived “chase for the chase” format upset completionists. The prospect of 7000+ base card issues but literally single digits of many parallels frustrated purists. It created an ultra-elusive subset almost impossible to truly “complete.” Other critiques involved the relative lack of information provided on print runs and insert odds. Without transparency some felt it was akin to a lottery.

Overall the 1993 Score Gold Rush showed the power of inserts, parallels, and scarcity to generate massive collector buzz for a release. By tapping into nostalgia and mining for gold, the set captured imaginations. While not without drawbacks, it established parallels as integral to the modern hobby. Rare and prized parallel cards have since become standard in virtually every sports and non-sports trading card product. The impact of 1993 Score Gold Rush can still be felt innovating the collectibles industry nearly 30 years later. It indeed sparked one of the greatest “gold rushes” in the history of the hobby.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED BOX

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The 1990 Score baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors for its classic design and inclusion of some of the game’s all-time great players. Containing 792 cards in the base set, the 1990 Score issue was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 80s and early 90s. Finding an unopened factory sealed box of 1990 Score cards today in pristine condition is a real treasure that could offer collectors an opportunity to relive the excitement of that era.

The 1990 Score set showcased flashy photography and creative borders around each image that paid tribute to the nostalgia of baseball. Featuring superstars like Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs and others on the cardboard, it captured some of the legends of the game at the peak of their careers. The simple white borders around each photo along with the bold red Score logo at the top made for an eye-catching and timeless aesthetic. While photography and design styles in cards would evolve greatly over the next few decades, the 1990 Score set remains beloved for its classic and understated look.

Inside an unopened wax box of 1990 Score from that year would be 16 factory sealed wax packs with 48 cards each for a total of 768 cards. While the base set had 792 total cards available, the odds of finding every single one in a single unsearched box would be exceedingly rare. Each wax pack from 1990 would have been sealed with a sturdy thin yellowish-orange wax paper that remained intact until carefully open. Nestled inside were the 48 cardboard trading pieces awaiting discovery.

Along with the base cards and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Craig Biggio, Jeff Bagwell, Juan Gonzalez and others, the 1990 Score set also included several exciting insert sets. The ‘Topps Tek’ refractors featured various players photographed with futuristic special effects. ‘Top Score’ paralleled were super short printed chase cards of the game’s biggest stars. Other inserts like ‘Diamond Kings’ highlighted some of the best defensive players with unique photography.

Finding autographed or memorabilia cards in 1990 Score would be like winning the card collecting lotto. Average serial numbered parallels were around 1 per pack or case. Incredibly rare 1/1 hits could provide a lifetime memory. But for most, simply building the base set and enjoying the artwork was gratification enough during the bubble period. The sheer thrill of the card hunt in the pre-internet era added to the magic of the hobby.

Besides its visual aesthetics and Hall of Fame roster, what makes an unsearched wax box of 1990 Score cards so desirable today is its time capsule quality. Sealed in the original shrink wrap for over 30 years, it offers a direct window into the heyday of the junk wax era. The unblemished shrink and pristine sealed wax packs internally freeze the product in the exact state it left the Topps factory during the golden age of baseball cards.

Cellophane wrapped boxes without damage or sticky shelf wear deserve top dollar from collectors seeking to unleash their inner child. Professionally graded high end examples can rival valuable vintage issues in valuation. But for most, simply preserving this snapshot of the past in its original unmolested condition is reward enough. Removing the shrink for the first time in decades to gaze upon the bright Score logo is a true experience money can’t buy.

As the hobby evolved, marketing strategies and production values changed. Inserts, parallels and autographs became the norm. But for one moment in the late 80s and early 90s, the 1990 Score set perfectly captured the raw emotion and history of America’s pastime on cardboard. Finding an unopened factory sealed case box time warped to that golden era three decades ago is like discovering a lost treasure offering a direct connection to the innocence and glory days of the collecting boom. For those who lived through it, a factory sealed 1990 Score wax box evokes a strong sense of nostalgia.

In the secondary market today, the price for an unsearched sealed case of 1990 Score baseball cards depends heavily on several factors. Overall condition with the original sealed shrink wrap still intact in premium condition commands the highest values. The presence of tampering, creases, discoloration or other flaws hurts grade and price. Similar to stocks, supply and demand also influence appreciation. As fewer survivors remain sealed away in attics and basements as the years pass, scarcity increases value. For pristine examples, auctions have seen individual unopened wax boxes from 1990 sell anywhere from $1,000 up to $5,000 depending on those variables. For those seeking an authentic way to travel back in time or add a true piece of card collecting history to their collection, finding an unopened factory sealed box of 1990 Score cards presents a rare and memorable opportunity. They allow you to relive a special moment from the past that still excites card fans of all ages today.

1998 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1998 Score baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable vintage card sets from the 1990s.Released in 1998 by Score Board, Inc., theScore set featured many star players who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. While not the flashiest baseball card release of its time period, the 1998 Score set contains several key cards that have increased dramatically in value over the past two decades. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top cards from this set and analyze what has driven their current worth in the collecting market.

One of the most notable rookies featured in the 1998 Score set is Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter. As arguably the best player of his generation and a surefire first-ballot Hall of Famer, Jeter’s rookie card has unsurprisingly gained immense value over time. In near-mint to mint condition, his 1998 Score RC currently sells for $500-800. What’s impressive is even well-worn copies in poor condition still fetch $100+. The mystique and winning pedigree of Jeter as the longtime Yankees captain is a huge factor in the high demand for this card.

Another massive hitter who shattered records was Cardinals first baseman Mark McGwire. In 1998, he set the single-season home run record with 70 long balls, a mark that wouldn’t be broken until Barry Bonds in 2001. McGwire’s power surge captivated the country and stirred massive interest in collecting his cards from that record-breaking year. His 1998 Score card in top shape will set you back $500 today. Like Jeter, it shows the lasting appeal of historic single-season performances for driving up recognition and value decades later.

Staying in St. Louis, the dominant pitching performance of 1998 was turned in by 23-year-old Matt Morris of the Cardinals. That season, Morris went 18-7 with a 2.47 ERA and finished third in NL Cy Young voting as he established himself as one of baseball’s best young hurlers. His sharp rookie card from Score in top condition eclipses $200 today. Though injuries later derailed his career, collectors still covet cards from Morris’ breakout 1998 season when he looked poised for stardom.

One of the most iconic players of the late 90s/early 2000s was Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa. In 1998, the Dominican outfielder led the NL in home runs with 66 in a huge breakout year. That powerful campaign is reflected in the price of his ’98 Score issue – upwards of $150 in mint condtion. Sosa’s charismatic home run prowess made him one of the most popular players worldwide during baseball’s steroid era. That fan adulation is a big reason why his cards from this pivotal year hold significant collector interest.

No baseball card set from the 1990s would be complete without a mention of Atlanta Braves superstar Chipper Jones. As arguably the greatest switch-hitter in MLB history and a surefire Hall of Famer, Jones’ career arc is one followed closely by collectors. His rookie card from 1998 Score – depicting him as an exciting young talent just starting his journey – has appreciated well and now sells for around $70-80 in top shape. Despite being over 20 years old, Jones’ iconic rookie maintains solid demand as collectors seek out cards chronicling the early stages of his outstanding career.

While star rookies and young breakout players drew plenty of 1998 Score card attention, veteran superstars held cachet as well. For example, a mint Ken Griffey Jr. card can range from $150-200. The Reds legend was still playing at an extremely high level in the late 90s before injuries derailed him. Similarly, a pristine Cal Ripken Jr. card fetches $100-125 based on his certain Hall of Fame status and the cultural impact of breaking Lou Gehrig’s iconic consecutive games played record in the 90s. These cards exemplify how consistent all-time greats maintain long-term worth in the market.

The 1998 Score baseball set endures as a seminal vintage release due to chronicling the stars and performances that defined late 90s MLB. Headlined by rookies like Jeter who became legends and breakouts like McGwire involved in history-making feats, ’98 Score captured lightning in a bottle. Coupled with the set featuring solid designs/photos that have aged quite well, values have trended up considerably since the turn of the century. For savvy collectors, hunting bargains on overlooked but solid veteran cards also creates opportunity. In all, 1998 Score endures as a must-have set for those constructing a portfolio emphasizing the excitement and nostalgia of late 90s baseball.

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1991 SCORE COLLECTOR SET BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Score Collector Set was a major release from Score Board, Inc. during the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Score had gained popularity as an alternative to the two largest producers, Topps and Donruss, with its modern photo style and oddball subsets. The 1991 Collector Set took Score’s formula to another level by combining an expanded 752-card base set with a wide array of special subsets and inserts focusing on milestones, records, and historical themes.

At the time of its release in 1991, the Collector Set represented one of the most ambitious and comprehensive single-season sets ever produced. The base set included all players on major league rosters as well as anyone who saw notable playing time in 1990. Rookies like Gregg Jefferies, Juan Gonzalez, and Fernando Valenzuela received distinctiveBorder colors as did stars like Rickey Henderson, Nolan Ryan, and Cal Ripken Jr. The retro-style design featured team logo borders along with a photo and stats on each 69mm x 93mm card.

Several novel subsets stood out, beginning with the 25-card “Record Breakers” set honoring players who set or were closing in on career and single-season records. Kenny Lofton’s 1990 stolen base total of 66 lands him in the set alongside other card choices like Nolan Ryan’s career strikeouts mark. A “This Year in Baseball” subset revisited wild playoff races and World Series upsets from 1990. Meanwhile, the 36-card “Milestones” subset highlighted major career plateaus like 3000 hits, 500 home runs, and 300 wins.

History was also a big focus, starting with the eye-catching 24-card “Turn Back the Clock” gold foilparallel set. Players like Honus Wagner, Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb received updated stats and career summaries to imagine what they might have achieved in the modern game. There was also a 12-card “Presidents of the Game” set showcasing the managers who embodied their franchise from the early 20th century onward. An “All-Time Teams” insert paid tribute to the best squads across franchise history for clubs like the A’s, Dodgers and Yankees.

Rookies and stars were not left out with several specialty subsets of their own. A “Rookie All-Stars” set honored the most promising first-year players, with cards for Chuck Knoblauch and Todd Zeile. Meanwhile, 36 current stars received silver parallel treatment in the “All-Stars” subset. The most valuable subset for collectors proved to be a mere 12 cards paying homage to the “Legends of the Game,” including immortals like Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio and Stan Musial.

Perhaps the crown jewel among these many inserts was the 24-card 1991 Hall of Fame “Hall of Famers” set. Featuring Roberto Alomar’s stunning rookie card in addition to enshrinees like Hank Aaron and Sandy Koufax, these hologram cards remain highly sought after by collectors today. No Score set would be complete without some lighter retrospective subsets. In 1991, these included 12 “Team Cards” showcasing whole club lineups through the years as well as a 12-card “This Date in Baseball History” chronology.

When put together, the 1991 Score Collector Set comprised a staggering 752 cards that ambitiously captured the past, present and future of America’s national pastime. While the massive size contributed to the set lacking organization at times, it delivered a true feast for any baseball fan or collector. The depth of subsets contributed to the set maintaining popularity and resale value through the 1990s card boom years. Today, a complete set in mint condition can sell forwell over $1000 due to the rarity of securing all the inserts and parallels intact. For historians and researchers as well, the Collector Set acts as a virtual time capsule preserving the state of the game in 1991. As one of Score’s most extensive annual issues ever, the 1991 Collector Set showed how far the company had evolved the modern baseball card.

The 1991 Score Collector Set demonstrated the company’s peak in terms of assembling an all-encompassing single-season release during baseball card’s golden age. By including such a massive base set complemented by diverse retro, milestone and Hall of Fame focused subsets, Score captured the current game while honoring its rich history. The Collector Set endures as one of the most ambitious sports card projects ever due to its encyclopedic scope covering all aspects of America’s pastime. For these reasons, it remains a highly collectible release among nostalgic baseball card aficionados to this day.

1991 SCORE COLLECTOR SET BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Score Collector Set was one of the most popular and valuable sets of baseball cards produced during the late 80s and early 90s boom years. With 792 total cards in the set spanning both the American and National Leagues, it provided collectors with comprehensive coverage of every player during the 1991 MLB season. Over three decades since its original release, the 1991 Score Collector Set still holds significance for collectors and its individual cards command demand on the secondary market.

A major reason for the set’s popularity and longevity is that it captured iconic players from that era who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Stars like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn, and Ken Griffey Jr. all had prominent rookie or early career cards in the 1991 set that are now highly coveted by collectors. Many consider the Griffey Jr. rookie to be the crown jewel of the set and in top-graded Gem Mint condition, examples have sold for over $10,000. Other notables like Bonds, Ripken, and Maddux also command thousands in top grades due to their on-field success and status as legends of the game.

Beyond the star rookie and early career cards, the depth of the 792 card checklist provides values across different player tiers. Stars from the era like Frank Thomas, Jeff Bagwell, Edgar Martinez, and David Justice have mid-range priced cards from $50-$200 depending on condition. Fan favorites and solid contributors from that time also appeal to collectors as lower end value options. Players such as Scott Coolbaugh, Andy Allanson, and Sandy Alomar Jr. can still be acquired in lower grades for $5-10. Even career minor leaguers and one-time sep players have found demand from set collectors looking to complete their sets, with many $1-3 range options available.

The design aesthetics of the 1991 Score set are also a big part of its legacy and enduring collector interest. The clean painted portrait style photos with team logo overlays were a huge change from the previous airbrushed efforts of the late 80s. The modern look captured the players and uniforms very neatly. The addition of copyright and production info on the reverse also added authenticity missing from some earlier issues. These factors made the 1991 set feel very representative of the current players and major league product on the field at that time.

In terms of overall set and product quality, Score was able to achieve higher standards than most other contemporary groups. Most examples retain good centering, with far fewer weakly printed or excessively off-center cards versus competitors. The cardboard stock was of adequate thickness to withstand general wear for decades. The protective plastic coating over the photographs also helped sustain nice gloss and clarity on images over the years. These relative strengths in production standards contribute to the 1991 Score set maintaining strong overall collector interest versus other options from that era.

When it comes to today’s values, the 1991 Score Collector Set still holds significance. Complete sets in average to nice near-mint condition with all inserts can be acquired for $300-500 depending on market conditions. Individual big rookie cards or star cards command far greater sums. A Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 10 can reach over $10,000 and examples of other stars like Maddux or Bonds also perform very well in top grades. For collectors seeking a cohesive product from the peak of the baseball card boom, ’91 Score remains an excellent choice that provides value across different player levels and tastes. Its popularity endures due to a memorable checklist and the quality production that stood out against contemporaries when it was released over 30 years ago.

In summarizing why the 1991 Score Collector Set maintains relevance, it effectively captured the elite talent and personalities of its era in cards that have proven durable both physically and in collector interest. Stars like Griffey Jr., Ripken, Bonds, and Maddux anchor the high-end with some of the most valuable modern-era rookie cards. Depth across the entire 792 card checklist provides mid-range and lower-tier values too. Contemporary collector sentiment also favors the clean painting-style design aesthetics and overall quality production that Score achieved versus other groups. After over three decades, the 1991 Score Set still delivers for collectors seeking a complete encapsulation of that memorable MLB season through the lasting commodity of its baseball cards.

95 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards have been collected by fans for over a century and there is a rich history behind some of the most coveted and valuable cards from the early years of the hobby. While modern cards focus more on flashy designs and autographs, older vintage cards are prized for their historical significance and the players featured. Within the world of vintage baseball cards, few hold as much prestige as those that received a PSA grade of 95.

A PSA 95 grade is the highest a card can achieve without being deemed pristine “gem mint” condition. On the PSA 1-100 grading scale, 95 represents “near mint” status, with a card exhibiting incredibly well-preserved surfaces and sharp corners for its age. Only very minor production flaws or wear may be present to prevent it from earning the perfect 100 grade. Securing a 95 from the industry-leading Professional Sports Authenticator is a major accomplishment for any old card and instantly makes it a highly valuable piece of sports collectibles history.

One of the most iconic and valuable 95 graded cards is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced between 1909-1911 as part of the hugely popular T206 series, the Wagner is arguably the single most sought-after card in the entire hobby. Its rarity and association with one of the earliest baseball superstars has made it the standard against which all other cards are measured. Fewer than 60 high-grade Wagners are known to exist today and a PSA 95 example would be worth well over $1 million, cementing it as one of the most expensive collectibles in the world.

Another extremely rare and desirable 95 graded pre-war card is the 1914 Cracker Jack Lefty Grove. Considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Grove’s rookie card appeared in packs of Cracker Jack and is exceedingly scarce in high grades. The condition sensitive cardboard stock and lack of protective packaging from the era mean most Groves today grade in the PSA 80-85 range. A 95 example would be a true condition census card, with auction prices pushing $200,000.

Moving into the 1930s, the 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth and the 1934 Goudey Lou Gehrig are two of the most iconic cards of the interwar period that command top dollar as 95 grades. As two of the most accomplished sluggers in baseball history and franchise players for the Yankees dynasty, their Goudey cards established the first major modern design language for baseball cards. High grade examples are exceedingly rare, with a PSA 95 Ruth bringing over $500,000 and a 95 Gehrig over $300,000 at auction.

The post-war era saw the advent of the modern mass-produced baseball card with the hugely popular 1952 Topps set. As the first full color cards, the ’52 Topps series featured all the greats of the day and established Topps as the dominant card company. Among the most sought-after 95 graded cards from the set are the Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Ted Williams. As three of the best hitters in baseball history, their rookie or early career cards are exceedingly rare in pristine condition given the fragile high-gloss photo stock Topps used at the time. A PSA 95 of any one of these stars would be worth a minimum of $100,000.

The late 1950s saw Topps begin using a thinner and more durable paper stock for its cards, helping higher grades survive to modern times. The iconic rookie cards of Hank Aaron, Frank Robinson, and Roberto Clemente that appeared in the 1954, 1956, and 1971 Topps sets respectively are among the most coveted 95s from this period. Each established all-time greats as young stars and their rookie cards in near-mint condition represent some of the finest examples known. Prices start at $50,000 for a 95 Clemente and can exceed $150,000 for a 95 Aaron.

By the 1960s, baseball cards had truly become a mainstream hobby for kids and collectors alike. The 1965 Topps set stands out for featuring the true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax, Pete Rose, and Jim Palmer. Their iconic early career images in a PSA 95 grade would be worth $30,000-$75,000 each. The 1969 Topps set is also highly regarded for rookie cards of Reggie Jackson, Tom Seaver, and Rod Carew. Near-mint graded copies of these future all-stars would also bring top dollar.

Obtaining a PSA 95 grade for any vintage baseball card is an incredible feat given the fragility of early production methods and decades of potential wear and tear. Such a high grade instantly places a card among the finest known to the population and makes it a true condition census piece. For the sport’s all-time greats and most iconic rookie cards, a 95 places the card in a very exclusive class and ensures its spot as one of the most valuable collectibles around. With prices reaching hundreds of thousands, PSA 95 graded cards represent the pinnacle of condition for early 20th century baseball memorabilia.

BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE 1990 SCORE

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Introduction
The 1990 Score baseball card set was one of the most popular and valuable releases of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Score was known for its sharp photography, player bios on the back of each card, and inclusion of both major and minor leaguers. The 1990 set in particular featured some of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. Let’s take an in-depth look at the 1990 Score set and get a sense of what key cards from that year have sold for in recent years.

Background on the 1990 Score Set
Score released packs with 11 cards each in 1990. The base set included 792 cards spanning all 26 major league teams at the time. Some of the top rookies featured were Gregg Jefferies, Frank Thomas, and Derek Bell. The set also included “Traded” cards to account for players who were dealt to new teams mid-season. Score paralleled other major brands of the time like Donruss and Fleer in design but stood out for its photography and write-ups. Factors like centering, corners and edges can significantly impact a card’s grade and value. Top-graded PSA 10 examples of stars from this set have sold for thousands.

Key Rosters and Players
The Oakland A’s dynasty of the late 1980s and early 90s was well-represented, with stars like Jose Canseco, Rickey Henderson, and Dave Stewart featured prominently. The Cincinnati Reds’ “Nasty Boys” bullpen of Norm Charlton, Randy Myers, and Rob Dibble also had cards. The Boston Red Sox featured Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, and Oil Can Boyd. And the New York Mets had cards for Dwight Gooden, Darryl Strawberry, and David Cone. Rookies like Ken Griffey Jr., Juan Gonzalez, and Chuck Knoblauch also had their first Score cards in 1990.

High-End Cards and Recent Sale Prices
Here’s a look at some of the most valuable and desirable individual cards from the 1990 Score set and what top-graded examples have sold for in recent years:

Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie – PSA 10s have sold for over $4,000. High-grade examples in the $1,000-2,000 range are more common.

Frank Thomas Rookie – Another hugely popular rookie. PSA 10s have topped $3,000 with most graded 9s selling for $500-1,000.

Nolan Ryan – The all-time strikeout king’s 1990 Score card consistently sells for $100-300 in high grades.

Barry Bonds Rookie – Not technically a true rookie card but one of his earliest. PSA 10s have reached $2,000.

Roger Clemens – Consistently a $100-200 card in top condition for one of the era’s best pitchers.

Rickey Henderson – Another consistent $100-200 card. He holds the single-season stolen base record.

Jose Canseco – As one of the leaders of the “Bash Brothers” A’s, PSA 10s have sold for around $500-800.

Dwight Gooden – “Dr. K” was one of the most dominant pitchers of the mid 80s. PSA 10s reach $300-500.

Ozzie Smith – A defensive wizard at shortstop. Near-mint to gem mint examples sell in the $50-150 range.

Cal Ripken Jr. – Even in the midst of his record consecutive games streak, PSA 10s only reach $150-250.

Tips for Building a 1990 Score Collection
The 1990 Score set had such a strong, star-studded roster that it remains a very collectible vintage release over 30 years later. While PSA 10 gems of top stars can be pricey, there are still many affordable graded and ungraded options available. Minor stars and role players can often be found for $5-10 even in high grades. It’s also a set where you can find bargain bins of commons and fill out your player and team collections with patience. Condition is still very important – aim for at least near-mint copies for long-term appreciation. The 1990 Score set endures as one of the iconic releases that defined the junk wax era boom of the late 80s/early 90s.

In Closing
This overview of the 1990 Score baseball card set highlighted some of its biggest stars, rookies, and teams represented. We took a close look at recent sale prices for PSA-graded gem mint examples of the most valuable individual cards to get a sense of where collector demand and pricing has settled years after the set’s original release. While seven-figure cards are still rare outside of true rookie cards of all-time greats, there remain many affordable graded and ungraded options to build a collection around players, teams or specific years that hold personal significance. The 1990 Score set remains a fun and nostalgic reminder of the hobby’s peak popularity during that era.

1989 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS UNOPENED PACK

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The 1989 Score baseball card set holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors for a variety of reasons. Packaged in redesigned packaging from previous years, the 1989 Score set marked a transition to a modern era in baseball cards while still retaining nostalgia for the past. For those lucky enough to have an unopened 1989 Score wax pack sitting untouched for over 30 years, it represents a time capsule into the late 1980s baseball world as well as a potential gold mine of valuable cards waiting to be discovered.

The 1989 Score set was the 15th edition in the long-running Score brand which began in 1975. By 1989, Score had established itself as one of the most popular mainstream baseball card brands alongside Topps and Donruss. That year, Score graphics and design took a leap forward with colorful horizontal card fronts featuring enlarged player photos. The rectangular shaped cards resembled more closely the photographic baseball cards that would be produced in the 1990s as opposed to the illustrations of the 1970s.

While signaling changes, the 1989 Score set also paid tribute to baseball history. For the first time, Score included Traded sets that highlighted key player transactions from that season. These traded cards, which pictured players in their new uniforms, were inserted randomly in wax packs. Score also produced Studio Portrait cards that revisited classic photos from the 1950s-1970s era. These blasts from the past connected today’s fans to the stars of yesterday.

Perhaps the biggest draw of 1989 Score packs was the return of Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards. After breaking into the majors with Seattle in 1987, Griffey’s powerful playing skills and charisma captured the attention of the sporting public. His rookie cards from 1987 Donruss and Fleer sets remain two of the most iconic and valuable in the modern hobby. The Griffey excitement carried into 1989 Score as collectors scrambled to pull his high-gloss rookie which featured a close-up photo of “The Kid” smiling in a Mariners uniform.

While Griffey led the star power, the rest of the 1989 Score checklist was loaded with future Hall of Famers and all-time greats. Straight out of the pack, collectors could uncover rookie cards of Gary Sheffield, Larry Walker, and Jim Abbott among others. Superstars of the day like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Nolan Ryan, and Roger Clemens dotted the set ready to be discovered. Even role players and backups held nostalgia and hobby value as representations of their respective 1980s franchises.

Beyond the on-field talent, the 1989 Score set showcased unique photography and creative design elements that added to its appeal. Close-up head shots, action scenes, and unique backgrounds took card visuals to another level. Score also tried experimental techniques like holograms, embossed lettering, and uncoated stock on selected cards. While not all of these innovations were a hit with collectors, they showed Score’s willingness to take risks and push the limits of card making technology.

Today, an unopened 1989 Score wax rack pack remains a true collector’s prize. Over three decades of carefully storing these fragile cardboard packs have properly “aged” their contents. With Griffey the obvious headliner, an unopened pack holds potential unclaimed gems from another era. Ripping apart the glue to see what’s inside is akin to unwrapping a time capsule. Will another rookie phenom be hiding there? Or maybe a traded card transitioning a star to a new uniform? The anticipation alone makes an unopened 1989 Score pack among the most thrilling cardboard artifacts to possess in the hobby.

For those who want to properly experience the magic of the 1989 Score set but don’t have an original unopened pack, there are still ways to enjoy it. The cards have maintained popularity in the secondary market where individual commons can be purchased for under $1 while stars range from $5-25 with the Griffey rookies topping $100-200 depending on grade. Replica wax packs are also available containing randomized assortments of cards to simulate that original pack opening experience. Nothing can replace finding treasures from the past still locked away in that three decade old piece of waxed cardboard waiting to be cracked. For 1989 Score collectors, an untouched pack is a small window back to another baseball era that encourages reminiscing about how far the hobby has come.

In summary, 1989 Score baseball cards hold a special nostalgic significance for many collectors and represent a transition point between classic and modern design aesthetics. For those who have avoided tearing into an original unopened wax rack pack from that year, it serves as an irreplaceable time capsule holding the potential for forgotten gems or rediscovered favorites. After over 30 undisturbed years, the magic of what cards may lie in wait still lives on for those original 1989 Score collectors lucky enough to have one of these untouched relics from the past sitting on their shelf.

92 SCORE SELECT BASEBALL CARDS

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In the early 1990s, the baseball card industry was booming with the rise of the junk wax era. Mass produced sets with ultra-low print runs flooded the market, making individual cards fairly worthless. In 1992, Upper Deck sought to change the game and give collectors a higher-end product with their Score Select line.

Score Select cards featured some of the biggest names in baseball captured in crisp, vibrant photography on thick, high-quality stock. Rather than mass producing cards, Upper Deck limited the print run of each Score Select card to only 500 copies. This scarcity gave the line immense cache and prestige among collectors. Each card came individually numbered on the front with a hologram to deter forgeries. While pricier than typical cards of the era, Score Select cards offered a premium collecting experience.

Some of the most coveted Score Select cards from 1992 featured superstars in action shots. For example, the Ken Griffey Jr. card showed him leaping to make an outstanding catch in center field. Griffey was already one of the game’s brightest young stars and his card remains highly sought after by collectors today. Another iconic card was the Barry Bonds card picturing him taking a mighty swing. Bonds was in his prime and on his way to smashing the single season home run record.

Other highly valuable Score Select cards from 1992 focused on rookie sensations. The Chipper Jones rookie card captured him in his Braves uniform during his breakout rookie campaign. Only 500 copies of this card exist and it can sell for thousands in top condition today. The Derek Jeter rookie card is equally scarce and iconic, honoring the future Yankees captain in his debut 1992 season. For White Sox fans, the Robin Ventura rookie remains a true gem considering his success both at the plate and in the field.

Veteran superstars also had highly collectible Score Select cards in 1992. The Nolan Ryan card showed the ageless wonder firing a 100 mph fastball with his classic high leg kick delivery. The Ozzie Smith backflip card honored the wizardly defensive skills of the Cardinals shortstop. The Cal Ripken Jr. card pictured him smashing a home run in tribute to his Iron Man streak. Each of these cards command big money today because of the legends they portray and their extreme rarity.

While players on winning teams received more attention, Score Select also highlighted stars on losing clubs. The Ken Caminiti card stood out even on the last place Padres by capturing his raw power in a batting stance. The Bobby Bonilla card honored his offensive production for the Pirates despite the team’s struggles. The Darren Daulton card paid tribute to the heart and soul catcher of the Phillies franchise. Even on non-contenders, these players were worthy of the elite Score Select treatment.

Beyond the on-field action shots, a few Score Select cards took a more artistic approach in 1992. The Dennis Eckersley card pictured the dominant closer in a painting-like backdrop with his number 43 prominently displayed. The Don Mattingly card honored “Donnie Baseball” with a portrait style photograph against a navy blue background. These unique presentations showed Upper Deck’s willingness to get creative within the confines of the premium Score Select product.

While rarer than most other 1992 releases, Score Select cards were still obtainable in retail packs during the initial product run. As the junk wax era crashed and collectors realized the true scarcity of each Score Select card, prices skyrocketed into the thousands of dollars per card for gems. Even today, with over 30 years of appreciation, pristine Score Select rookie and star cards can sell at auction for five figures. The 1992 Score Select line helped elevate the hobby and create some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever made. For dedicated collectors, finding that one missing piece from the 1992 set is a lifelong quest.

In conclusion, 1992 Upper Deck Score Select baseball cards represented the pinnacle of the card collecting hobby during baseball’s golden age of the early 1990s. By limiting each card’s print run to only 500 copies and using brilliant photography on thick card stock, Score Select offered a premium experience that boosted cards to high-end works of art. Rookie sensations, veteran superstars, and even role players received the Score Select treatment in 1992. While tough to find in gem condition today, pristine Score Select cards remain hugely popular with collectors and consistently set record prices at auction. The 1992 set helped elevate card collecting to new heights and created several all-time classic and valuable baseball cards.

1991 SCORE ALL STAR TEAM BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Score All Star Team baseball card set showcased some of the biggest stars in Major League Baseball at the height of their careers. The 100-card base set featured 10 cards for each position, dividing the spots into American League and National League sections. There were also designated player cards acknowledging the top hitter and pitcher from each league that season.

Score released the All Star Team set during the summer of 1991, right in the middle of a classic baseball season that saw hot divisional races and historical performances. That year’s All-Star Game in Toronto showed the star power and excitement of the sport at the time. The cards captured many players at the absolute peak of their abilities, with most still in their prime or early in acclaimed careers.

For catchers, the AL cards highlighted Boston’s Carlton Fisk, who was still producing despite being in his late 30s, and Milwaukee’s new star catcher, Darren Daulton. The NL side featured the Dodgers’ Mike Scioscia and New York Mets legend Gary Carter. At first base, Cecil Fielder’s monster 51 home run season for Detroit led the AL section alongside Mark McGwire of Oakland, while the NL featured peak seasons from Will Clark of San Francisco and Sid Bream for Pittsburgh.

Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, who was in the midst of a multi-year MVP calibre run for the Chicago Cubs, headlined the NL second base cards along with Jeff Kent of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The AL featured Oakland’s Willie Randolph and Seattle’s Harold Reynolds at the position. At shortstop, Cal Ripken Jr. of the Baltimore Orioles dominated defensively for the AL alongside Boston’s Luis Aparicio, while the NL saw Atlanta’s Rafael Belliard and the Dodgers’ Alfredo Griffin.

Of all the positions, third base featured perhaps the most star power across both leagues. The AL section was led by Wade Boggs of Boston, owning a batting title that year, and Matt Williams of Oakland, who was establishing himself as an elite slugger. The NL options included Cincinnati’s Chris Sabo, fresh off Rookie of the Year honors, and Ken Caminiti of Houston before his peak Padres seasons.

Moving to the outfield, the AL cards highlighted Toronto’s Joe Carter, who muscled his way to 96 RBI that season, and Rookie of the Year runner up Chad Curtis of Oakland alongside Devon White of Toronto and Dan Pasqua of Boston. The NL outfield standouts were Philadelphia’s Lenny Dykstra, San Diego’s Tony Gwynn, and 3-time batting champ Brett Butler of the Dodgers.

On the mound, pitchers who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers like the Blue Jays’ Jack Morris and Tigers’ Frank Tanana headlined the AL along with Oakland’s Dennis Eckersley and Dave Stewart. The NL aces included San Diego’s Bruce Hurst and Chicago’s Mike Bielecki with dominant Atlanta hurlers Tom Glavine and John Smoltz also receiving recognition.

As for the individual awards, the AL featured Baltimore’s Cal Ripken Jr. as the top hitter after a monster .323 average, 34 HR, 114 RBI campaign and Dennis Eckersley’s AL leading 45 saves for Oakland pitching dominance. The NL winner cards highlighted Howard Johnson of the Mets, who led the league with 38 home runs at second base, and Houston’s Bob Knepper for his 21-8 record and 2.18 ERA.

Overall, Score’s 1991 All Star Team set provided a tremendous time capsule of MLB during a special period of the early 1990s. Fans of all ages could enjoy reliving the careers and accomplishments of superstars from the past through these retrospective cardboard collections. While digital platforms have largely replaced physical cards today, sets like this remain cherished nostalgia pieces for baseball aficionados who remember the great players, teams and seasons they represent. The talent level and star power on display in the 1991 Score cards is a true testament to the golden era of baseball they commemorated.

Between the mix of established veteran legends, young rising talents, career years and individual awards, Score selected rosters that perfectly captured the essence of baseball at its highest level during that single memorable season. For collectors and fans alive during 1991, flipping through this 100-card treasure trove of All Star Team cards must have felt like reliving an unforgettable baseball summer in card form. Even decades later, the nostalgia and historical context these cards provide makes the 1991 Score All Star Team set a fun and informative look back at a special time in Major League Baseball history.