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1992 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 2

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The 1992 Score Baseball card set was one of the most popular and highly regarded issues of the early 1990s. Series 2, which was released in packs later in the summer of 1992 following Series 1, continued Score’s tradition of creative and eye-catching visual designs along with providing plenty of statistical and biographical information on the sport’s top stars and prospects. The 272-card Series 2 set showcased cards for many of baseball’s biggest names at the time along with several rising young players who would go on to have stellar careers.

Some of the biggest stars featured in prominent places in the set included Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., Kirby Puckett, and Tom Glavine. Bonds’ card highlighted his dominance as a power hitter in the early 1990s while Ryan’s focused on his legendary longevity still pitching effectively well into his 40s. Ripken and Puckett maintained their status as perennial All-Stars and continued rewriting the record books with Ripken’s incredible consecutive games played streak. Glavine fresh off winning the 1991 Cy Young Award as the NL’s top pitcher. Each of these superstar cards included colorful graphical designs along with in-depth stats and career highlights writing, underscoring their place among the game’s elites.

Beyond the true superstars, Series 2 offered a deep look at rising talents who would emerge as future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and John Smoltz. Griffey’s rookie card in 1989 Upper Deck is one of the most iconic in the hobby’s history and his 1992 Score issue reflects his breakout All-Star 1991 season. Thomas’ mammoth power numbers that would lead to back-to-back MVP wins were on full display. Smoltz meanwhile was in the midst of his evolution from an ace starter to a legendary closer. Each had all the markings of future greatness coming into focus.

The set also highlighted several promising young pitchers who were putting it all together like Doug Drabek, Kevin Appier, and Jimmy Key. Drabek fresh off winning the 1990 NL Cy Young and All-Star honors. Appier was establishing himself as the rock in the Kansas City rotation while Key provided steady, overlooked brilliance for Toronto. Even role players found a place with unique niche cards for defensive wizards like Ozzie Smith, Lenny Dykstra, and Mitch Williams. Score made the effort to cast a wide net and credit contributions both tangible and intangible across the game.

In addition to current stars, Score maintained its tradition of honoring the legends of the sport with memorable “Then and Now” cards comparing players in their prime to later in their careers after retiring. Icons like Nolan Ryan, Hank Aaron, and Reggie Jackson remained hugely popular draws for collectors. Each of their cards provided statistical comparisons between their career peaks and later milestones which maintained nostalgia for the past while educating newer fans.

Score took card designs and stats to new heights with innovations like “Hit Tracker” cards breaking down remarkable single-game offensive outbursts pitch-by-pitch. “Fielding Fact” cards zeroed in on impressive defensive plays. “Series Stars” cards highlighted top performers in that year’s League Championship and World Series. Innovations like these kept Score on the cutting edge of marrying entertaining visuals with hardcore baseball data appeal to both casual fans and serious collectors.

While stars drove much of the value, less heralded players found representation with distinctive photographs featuring unique stances, between-pitches motions, and interactions with teammates. Creative “Traded” cards noted midseason deals while “Rookies & Rookies” spotlighted top prospects. Rookie cards for future stars like Jeff Bagwell, John Burkett, and Jason Bere in their first MLB action added to their long-term appeal among investors.

The 272 cards of Score’s 1992 Series 2 set accomplished the challenge of being simultaneously entertaining, informative, and nostalgic. Between the superstars, rising talents, defensive specialists, legends, and prospects across a wide array of visually striking designs, there was truly something for fans and collector of every inclination. Score’s creative presentation and research established it as the seminal baseball card producer of the early 1990s and Series 2 remains one of the most beloved issues from that golden era. Both novice and seasoned collectors found endless rewards in continuously exploring the rich stories and statistical riches within the pages of every 1992 Score Series 2 pack.

10 MOST VALUABLE 1992 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Score baseball card set marked the start of the ‘Junk Wax’ era coming to an end. While production numbers were still quite high for most cards, the quality and designs had improved over the previous few years. Several young star rookies also debuted in the set that would go on to have Hall of Fame caliber careers. All of these factors have led to strong secondary market values for many of the top cards from the 1992 Score checklist nearly 30 years later. Here are the 10 most valuable from the set based on PSA 10 Gem Mint condition prices:

Kirby Puckett (Card #179)

One of the best center fielders of his generation, Kirby Puckett was in the midst of his prime when featured on this card. He would go on to win six straight Gold Gloves and lead the Twins to two World Series titles. While not quite as valuable as his 1985 Donruss rookie card, Puckett remained a fan favorite in Minnesota throughout his career. In pristine PSA 10 condition, his 1992 Score card has sold for around $40-50 in recent years.

Barry Larkin (Card #181)

The smooth-fielding shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds, Barry Larkin earned his 12th and final All-Star selection in 1992. That year he won the Silver Slugger Award while batting .302 and hitting 16 home runs. Larkin’s career would culminate with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2012. His rookie card from this set has a PSA 10 value of $50-60.

Jeff Bagwell (Card #193)

One of the premier power hitters of the 1990s, Jeff Bagwell smashed 449 career home runs despite playing his home games in the pitcher-friendly Astrodome. In 1992 he batted .294 with 15 homers and 76 RBI in his rookie season in Houston. Bagwell’s memorable 1992 Score rookie card has demand from Astros fans and 90s collectors alike, yielding $60-70 in pristine condition.

Tom Glavine (Card #233)

The ace lefty of the Atlanta Braves pitching staff, Tom Glavine won 305 games and two Cy Young Awards over his Hall of Fame career. He captured his first Cy Young in 1991 when featured on this rookie card. Glavine helped lead the Braves franchise to 15 division titles between 1991-2005. High-grade examples of his valuable rookie card from 1992 Score sell in the $70-80 range.

John Smoltz (Card #253)

Another key pitcher for those dominant Atlanta Braves teams was John Smoltz. In 1992 he went 15-11 with a 2.94 ERA and 173 strikeouts, starting to showcase his dominance on the mound before moving to the bullpen later in his career. Smoltz’s Hall of Fame resume and Atlanta fandom drive strong prices for his rookie card from this set, with a PSA 10 valued at $80-90.

Derek Jeter (Card #284)

One of the best shortstops in MLB history and face of the Yankees franchise for two decades, Derek Jeter was just beginning his career in 1992. He made his memorable debut in 1995 and would go on to win 5 World Series championships. As one of the most recognizable players from the 1990s, Jeter’s rookie card from Score is a must-have for collectors. In pristine condition it has sold for as much as $100-120 in recent auctions.

Craig Biggio (Card #287)

While primarily known for his time as an Astro, Craig Biggio was still with the Yankees organization when featured on this rookie card in 1992. He broke into the majors in 1988 but was included in Score’s rookie section that year based on official at-bats thresholds. Biggio went on to record 3,060 hits and became only the second player ever to record at least 1,000 runs, RBIs, and extra-base hits. The Houston legend’s rookie has an established PSA 10 value of $125-150.

Frank Thomas (Card #319)

Nicknamed “The Big Hurt”, Frank Thomas was the face of the Chicago White Sox franchise in the 1990s while producing one of the best all-around offensive careers for a hitter in MLB history. In 1992 he set a new rookie record by hitting .271 with 31 home runs and 94 RBI, finishing third in MVP voting. High-grade copies of his debut card have sold for up to $175-200 showing its enduring popularity.

Ken Griffey Jr. (Card #360)

One of the most anticipated and hyped rookie cards of the early 1990s was Ken Griffey Jr. He delivered on the promise by becoming a 13-time All-Star with 630 career home runs. The smooth-swinging center fielder was incredibly popular even as a rookie in 1989. His 1992 Score issue is among the most iconic cards from the set. PSA 10 examples routinely sell for over $250 online.

Chipper Jones (Card #368)

The clear number one most valuable card from the 1992 Score set is the rookie of Atlanta Braves legend Chipper Jones. He enjoyed a Hall of Fame career playing exclusively for the Braves from 1995-2012, winning the 1999 NL MVP. Jones was an eight-time All-Star and fan favorite in Atlanta. As one of the last true superstar rookies from the early ’90s, his vibrant rookie card holds immense nostalgia and demand. In near-mint to mint condition, examples have sold at auction for as much as $350-450.

While production numbers remain high for most cards in the 1992 Score baseball set, strong secondary prices have emerged for the rookie and star issues of players that became major stars and Hall of Famers. For key rookies of Chipper Jones, Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, and others, their introductory Score cards remain some of the most classic and valuable from the entire 1990s era. Graded examples in top grades continue to excite collectors nearly 30 years later.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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1990 Score Baseball Card Price Guide

The 1990 Score baseball card set featured 762 total cards and included rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas, Gregg Maddux, and Jeff Bagwell. While not as iconic as sets from the late 1980s, 1990 Score cards remain popular with collectors today due to the star talent featured. This comprehensive price guide will break down the most valuable and sought after cards from the 1990 Score set as well as provide context around card conditions and factors affecting price.

The true stars of the 1990 Score set are the rookie cards for future star players who had Hall of Fame caliber careers. Often topping list of most valuable 1990 Score cards are the rookie cards of Frank Thomas, Jeff Bagwell, and Gregg Maddux. In pristine near-mint to mint condition (graded 9-10 on the 1-10 BGS/PSA grading scale), these rookie cards can fetch big money from avid collectors.

Frank Thomas #642 RC – In a PSA 10 gem mint, this coveted rookie card has sold for over $2,000. Even in an unlabeled PSA 9 near-mint, it can sell for $500-800 depending on the auction. Widely considered one of the best power hitters of the 1990s and 2000s, Thomas’ career .301 batting average and 521 home runs make this one of the most sought after rookie cards from the set.

Jeff Bagwell #470 RC – Another premier power hitter enshrined in Cooperstown, Bagwell’s 1990 Score rookie card graded PSA/BGS 10 is valued around $1,000-1,500. In a PSA 9 it still commands $400-700. A consistently clutch slugger for the Astros for over 15 seasons, Bagwell’s career numbers and Hall of Fame induction add to the interest in his rookie card.

Gregg Maddux #488 RC – While not as well known for mammoth home run totals, Maddux’s pinpoint control and four Cy Young awards as one of baseball’s best pitchers ever make his 1990 Score rookie a top valued card. A PSA/BGS 10 grades around $800-1,200 with a PSA 9 reaching $300-500 prices currently.

Beyond the valuable rookie cards, other premium veterans from the 1990 season that command higher prices include #422 Nolan Ryan, #633 Ken Griffey Jr., #5 Barry Bonds, and #637 Cal Ripken Jr. Graded gems of these star players can reach hundreds of dollars depending on the player pedigree and card condition. Some key price points for notable veterans include:

Nolan Ryan PSA 10 – $600-800
Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 10 – $400-600
Barry Bonds PSA 10 – $300-500
Cal Ripken Jr. PSA 10 – $250-350

For rookie cards of stars who had solid careers but didn’t reach Hall of Fame level of play, prices tend to range from $50-150 for top grades. Players in this category could include #562 Moises Alou, #645 Juan Gonzalez, #486 Dave Martinez, #631 Larry Walker. More common but still sought rookie cards in the $10-50 range for gems might be players like Jeff Reardon, Dennis Martinez, or Pat Listach.

While rookie cards and star players dominate 1990 Score value, there are also opportunities to find hidden gems. Parallel printings like “black border” variations, possible printing errors, numbered or stamped cards, and promotional inserts can sometimes create unexpected rarities. Carefully checking serial numbers, autographs, or unusual mistakes can uncover unique cards in any given vintage set that may hold special significance.

Just as valuable as the card itself is the condition or grade. Lower grades of even top cards will lose tremendous value. Being able to verify authenticity and assess condition accurately is vital for collectors. That is why third party certification from leading companies like PSA or BGS provides confidence for buyers and informs realistic sale expectations. Factors like centering, corners, edges and surface all impact condition and are professionally analyzed through comprehensive grading standards.

The 1990 Score baseball set launched the careers of all-time great players still popular with collectors today. While supply may be plentiful compared to the scarcity of 1980s sets, demand remains high for well-preserved rookie cards and star veterans from this vintage era. With Hall of Fame talent and proven track records of growth over time, premium 1990 Score cards graded pristinely always seem poised to retain value as a sound long term hobby investment. Being aware of condition impacts and discerning genuine collectibles from damaged or counterfeit cards helps serious investors successfully target and acquire key pieces from this evergreen set.

SCORE ALL STAR BASEBALL CARDS

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Score was a trading card company that produced baseball cards from 1986 to 1993. Their core set was called Score All-Star baseball and they produced high quality cards during the height of the baseball card boom in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Let’s take a deeper look at the history and traits of Score All-Star baseball cards.

Score was founded in 1986 by Louis Manna and was headquartered in New Rochelle, New York. Their first baseball card set that year was called “Score ’86” and it had 396 total cards. It was their 1987 set branded as “Score All-Star baseball” that really put them on the map and launched their successful run producing baseball cards through the early 90s.

The 1987 Score All-Star set had 528 total cards and featured a clean and classic design that collectors loved. The photography was sharp and high quality. Each card had a white border surrounding the image with the team name and player info below in text. Above the image was the “Score” logo printed in classic baseball script font. The cards had terrific gloss and were quite thick, giving them a very premium feel in the hand compared to some other brands at the time.

In terms of player content, the ’87 Score set was the first to include all active major leaguers at the time of production. This made for a very complete rookie class as well as inclusion of lesser known depth players that added to the authentic baseball experience for collectors. Score also featured short bios of players on the rear of some cards that provided interesting facts and stats to learn more about them. The set had a fairly normal statistical distribution with the usual rookie and star player short prints scattered throughout boxes.

The success of the 1987 Score All-Star cards led the company to produce the set again with minor tweaks and enhancements in 1988, 1989, 1990 and 1991. Some notable improvements over the years included better photography with some action shots added, additional stats and career highlights featured on the back, and bigger rookie classes as new players entered the majors each season. One downside was that starting in 1989, Score increased the printed run of each consecutive year, decreasing scarcity.

From 1992-1993, Score made some poor business decisions that ultimately led to their demise. They printed extremely high numbers in 1992 which flooded the market. They also created confusing variations and inserted autograph and logo patch cards in ways that angered collectors. Perhaps most damaging was the introduction of “Score Traded” in 1993 which copied the design of the base set but included traded players in their new team’s uniforms, contradicting the stated release timeline of the original base cards. These factors eroded collector confidence in the brand.

In terms of the actual physical cards themselves, Score All-Stars from the late 80s golden era are known for their exceptional quality control. The centering, cuts and composition of the cardboard stock were meticulously maintained by Score. This is evidenced by the extremely high percentages of these cards that still grade professionally as Mint condition today, a testament to how well they were produced and have held up over 30+ years. The luxurious gloss also helped keep the images sharp.

When it comes to the value of Score All-Star baseball cards in the current vintage market, there is a lot of variability depending on specific years, players and production factors:

1987 Score All-Star cards have held their value very well and grades examples of stars from that pioneering set can sell for hundreds of dollars. Top rookies like Mark McGwire are particularly desirable.

1988-1991 Score All-Stars also remain quite collectible and grades stars and key rookies can be worth $50-100+. Solid condition common cards can often sell in the $5-10 range.

The overproduction issues of 1992 caused a market crash where once $20+ cards lost most value. Grades examples of stars have rebounded some to $10-20 today.

1993 Score Traded variants are quite unpopular with collectors and have not increased in value like other year’s sets. Base set cards hold little value as well.

In conclusion, Score All-Star baseball cards from the late 80s established the brand as a premier producer known for top quality photography, design and construction. While earlier sets from 1986-1991 are most coveted, properly graded examples from the height of their run continue to be appreciated by vintage collectors. The dominance ofScore in those boom years truly cemented them as all-star performers in the baseball card industry.

SCORE BASEBALL CARDS 2022

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Scoring and organizing baseball cards is a beloved hobby for many collectors. With the 2022 season well underway, now is an ideal time to look over your baseball card collection and start a scoring system to better catalog and appreciate the players and cards in your collection. Here are some tips for implementing an effective scoring system for your baseball cards in the modern era.

To start, you’ll need supplies like toploaders, sleeves, binders or boxes to safely store your cards. It’s also a good idea to have scoring sheets or a spreadsheet to record your scores. Some people score on the actual cards using soft-tipped pencils, while others prefer keeping scores separate. There is no right or wrong way, so use a method that works best for your collection and preferences.

When it comes to what to score, the most common areas are the card front and back, corners, edges and surface/appearance. These are scored individually on a scale, with 10 being perfect condition and 1 being poor. Other areas you could also consider scoring are the centering of any photos on the card as well as any autographs or memorabilia pieces included.

For the card front, look for things like scratches, dents, stains or worn edges that could detract from the visual appeal. The same inspection applies to the back of the card. Corners are especially vulnerable to damage from repeated handling, so check for bends, nicks or folds there. Edges can develop “whitening” over time which also affects the grade. Surface refers to the overall gloss and texture – is it still smooth or developing a dull or worn appearance?

Condition alone does not determine a card’s total value, so you’ll also want to consider other key factors in your scoring. These include the specific player, their tenure, team, stats, awards and notoriety. Rookie cards and particularly rare serial numbered parallel versions can score higher. Autographs, patches or relic cards from star players are also more desirable. Vintage cards from the early decades of the sport tend to appraise for more due to their scarcity and history.

You can assign point values individually to these other categories like Player/Stats (10 max), Rarity (10), Autograph/Memorabilia (10) and add them all up with your Condition score (which has a max of 40) for a final total out of 100. This gives you an easy at-a-glance way to compare cards in your collection based on their comprehensive score. Of course, true monetary value is determined by ever-changing market forces as well.

Spending time carefully examining, photographing and recording scores for your cards is a fun process that can teach you things you may not know about the players, designs and production years of various sets. This level of documentation also makes your collection more organized and valuable if you ever want to sell individual cards in the future. Many experienced collectors enjoy breaking their whole collections into subsets based on team, year or player to better appreciate different aspects.

Tracking player stats and career milestones as the 2022 season progresses is another way your scoring system stays relevant. Cards of breakout rookies or veterans enjoying career years may warrant score adjustments up as their notoriety and legacy grows. Conversely, injury-plagued or underperforming players may see lower scores over time.

Keeping your collection fresh with newly scored modern rookie cards is also half the fun. Top prospects like Bobby Witt Jr., Julio Rodriguez and Spencer Torkelson have cards collecting interest in 2022 and beyond as their careers develop. Vintage sets can be supplemented with recent releases to represent the entire span of baseball history in your organized scoring system.

In today’s digital era, some collectors enjoy taking photos of their scored cards to compile virtual binders or use apps to remotely manage their collections. This allows appreciated your treasured cards anywhere without risk of damage during transport. Paper scoring sheets still have their place for many as a more tactile analog experience closer to the actual cardboard. Find an organizational style that suits you as a collector in 2022 and beyond.

Taking the time to implement an extensive scoring system can be a hugely rewarding process for any baseball card enthusiast. It helps you better appreciate the nuances, stories and evolving value embedded in the pieces of your collection. With care and attention to detail, your scored cards will provide many years of memories and enjoyment to come as both their real world condition and historical significance continue developing.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1989 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Topps baseball card set saw the emergence of some of the greatest players of all time as rookies. Players like Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, and Kirby Puckett made their Topps debuts that year. While not the most valuable set overall, it contains some extremely rare and coveted rookie cards that have sold for astronomical prices in mint condition. Because the 1989 Topps set is relatively small at just 379 cards, it also saw fewer print runs than other years. This scarcity has greatly driven up values for the elite rookie cards over the past few decades.

Without question, the single most expensive 1989 Topps card is the Barry Bonds rookie PSA 10 Gem Mint. Widely considered one of if not the greatest player of all time, Bonds’ marketability and on-field dominance have fueled record sales for his rookie cards across brands. His Topps debut is no different, and examples that grade mint or near-mint easily clear six-figure prices. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Bonds rookie from 1989 recently sold for an astonishing $396,000 through auction, making it the priciest card from the set by a huge margin. The 10 NM-MT+ specimens fetch around $80,000 as well. Bonds’ powerful physical abilities and prodigious home run totals have cemented his status as an all-time icon and increased appeal to collectors.

While no other 1989 rookie comes close to Bonds’ value, several others have achieved five and low six-figure valuations for top condition cards as well. Chief among them is Greg Maddux’s rookie, which is considered among the rarest in the entire set due to its placement at a very backend spot of card #368. PSA 10 Gems have gone for over $100,000 before, with high-grade examples between $25,000-40,000 depending on the day. Maddux became one of the greatest pitchers ever despite humble beginnings, winning four Cy Young Awards during his dominant peak. His pinpoint control and astounding command made “Mad Dog” a sensation.

Another star who broke out in tremendous fashion was Minnesota Twins star Kirby Puckett. His bubbly personality and gritty play made him a fan favorite for over a decade in Minnesota. Puckett’s debut at card #207 has also become quite collectible within the set. High Mint Puckett rookies have sold in the $50,000 range. While not on Bonds’ level, Puckett’s impact as a perennial all-star and World Series hero for the Twins has maintained strong demand. His untimely passing in 2006 at just 45 years old due to glaucoma has enhanced his legacy within the collecting community as well over the years.

A handful of other rookies have achieved five-figure sums in pristine condition too. Seattle Mariners slugger Ken Griffey Jr. exploded onto the scene with impressive power and defense right away. His Topps debut is exceptionally rare to find high graded and has sold for $9,000 PSA 10. Cincinnati Reds flamethrower Todd Benzinger had a cup of coffee in the bigs but his #93 rookie holds appeal due to the difficulty in locating pristine samples. One PSA 10 sold for $12,600 in August 2010. Craig Biggio, who would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Houston Astros, debuted at #159 in the 1989 set. An SGC 98 Gem Mint specimen sold for $15,000 as one of the highest graded known.

In addition to star rookies, key Hall of Fame veterans featured prominently as well. Nolan Ryan’s iconic image on the 1989 set checklist (#210) regularly brings mid-four figures for top graded copies. Carlton Fisk’s final Topps card (#333) before retiring also draws interest. One PSA 9 copy sold for just under $5,000 in 2021. Ozzie Smith’s slick defense at shortstop made him a fan favorite, and his 1989 issue has values around $3,000 PSA 10. Lower numbered cards like Series 1 #1 Wally Joyner and #10 Mark McGwire always pique collector interest too despite modest stats. Top condition examples might hit $1,500-2,000 with patience.

The 1989 Topps baseball set saw the arrival of future superstars like Barry Bonds and Greg Maddux. As the flagship release from Topps that year, it has developed significant cache among both vintage investors and baseball aficionados. While large print runs make high grades elusive, the creme of the crop examples — principally Bonds, Maddux, and Puckett rookies in PSA 10 — have achieved jaw-dropping prices that few predicted years ago. For containing so many budding legends in one release, the 1989 set remains one of the era’s most iconic and collectible in the hobby despite its relatively small size. Condition-sensitive vintage investors continue hunting pristine specimens to this day.

1989 SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1989 Score Rising Stars baseball card set was unique in that it celebrated some of baseball’s top prospects and young talents who had yet to establish themselves as full-time major leaguers. While many rookie cards at the time featured recently debuted players, the Score Rising Stars set took a look ahead at the future of baseball by highlighting some of the most promising minor leaguers in the game. Several of the players featured went on to have tremendous big league careers, making some of the cards quite valuable today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most notable rising stars from the 1989 set and what their cards can be worth to collectors over 30 years later.

One of the biggest stars and most valuable cards from the 1989 Score Rising Stars set is Ken Griffey Jr. As the highly touted son of longtime major leaguer Ken Griffey Sr., Junior lived up to the hype by establishing himself as one of the greatest outfielders and players in baseball history. In his rookie Rising Stars card at age 19, Griffey’s 5-tool talents and glorious left-handed swing were already evident. He would debut in the majors later that year and go on to win 10 Gold Gloves and be selected to 13 All-Star games over a 22-year Hall of Fame career. No surprise then that Griffey’s rookie Rising Stars card is one of the most coveted from the set. In near mint to mint condition, it can fetch upwards of $500-$1000 or more depending on factors like centering and corners. The Griffey is truly a trophy piece for any baseball card collection.

Another superstar player featured as one of Score’s rising talents was Frank Thomas, who was selected by the Chicago White Sox in 1989 after winning back-to-back College Player of the Year awards at Auburn. “The Big Hurt” more than lived up to expectations with 521 career home runs, two MVP awards and a .301 batting average over 19 big league campaigns. His powerful left-handed swing and intimidating presence in the batter’s box made Thomas one of the most feared sluggers of the steroid era. Like Griffey, his ’89 Rising Stars rookie card is a prized possession for collectors, with graded mint condition copies going for $300-$500 or higher. Even in raw near mint, a Thomas Rising Stars can still sell in the $100-$200 range depending on qualities like centering and corners.

While Griffey and Thomas topped expectations and had Hall of Fame careers, a few other big names highlighted as prospects in ’89 struggled with injuries or took longer to develop than expected. Such was the case for Bobby Witt and Ben McDonald, both number one overall picks from the 1988 draft. Witt showed five-tool promise but battled elbow issues, though still managed to play parts of 11 MLB seasons. McDonald was a hard-throwing righty who made two All-Star appearances but never really put it all together consistently due to health. Both of their Rising Stars rookie cards have since gained value as two of the bigger baseball stars of the late ’80s/early ’90s. Near mint Witt and McDonald cards can sell for $50-$100 depending on condition specifics.

In addition to superstars and top prospects, the ’89 Score Rising Stars set also highlighted some promising young talents who went on to have really solid big league careers, even if they didn’t achieve superstardom. Pitchers like Orel Hershiser (already an All-Star in 1988 when featured), Jack McDowell and John Smoltz all developed into reliable starters who pitched well into the 1990s and beyond. Second baseman Quilvio Veras (pictured diving for a ball on his card) carved out a 12-year MLB career, and catcher Charles Johnson was a reliable backstop for over a decade. Their Rising Stars cards have gradually increased in value to the $10-30 range depending on condition for Veras and Smoltz, while Hershiser and McDowell can fetch $20-50 due to their success as pitchers.

The ’89 Score Rising Stars set also highlighted some prospects that never quite panned out or had brief MLB cameos. Pitchers like Bill Kruger, Jimmy Key and Gregg Olson had some big league time but didn’t sustain success. Infielders Mike Lansing and Tim Naehring each got a cup of coffee in the show. Outfielder Gary Roenicke played 6 seasons. Their Rising Stars rookie cards are still collector favorites for fans of ’80s/’90s baseball, but realistically sell for $5-15 depending on the name and condition of the specific card.

While not all of the prospects featured came to fruition like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas, the 1989 Score Rising Stars set provided an early peek at some talented young players who would eventually impact the game. Cards of stars like Griffey, Thomas, Bobby Witt and Ben McDonald have grown to six-figure values in mint condition over the decades. But cards of solid big leaguers like Hershiser, McDowell, Veras and Smoltz also appeal to collectors. Even those of pitchers who flamed out hold nostalgia value. The ’89 Score Rising Stars was a unique and prophetic glimpse at baseball’s future.

1992 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE LIST

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The 1992 Score baseball card set was issued at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Score released large sets each year with over 700 cards in 1992. While not the most popular or valuable set of that time period, the 1992 Score cards provide an interesting snapshot of the players and teams from that season over 25 years ago. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards and players from the 1992 Score baseball card set that still hold value for collectors today.

One of the most valuable and sought after rookie cards from the 1992 Score set is that of Mike Piazza. Piazza had a stellar rookie season with the Dodgers in 1992, batting .318 with 35 home runs and 112 RBIs. His rookie card remains one of the iconic cards from the early 1990s. In near mint to mint condition, an ungraded Piazza rookie will fetch $80-150. Higher grades of Piazza’s rookie, such as a PSA 10, have sold for over $1,000 showing the card still holds strong nostalgic value for collectors.

Another Dodgers rookie to watch from the 1992 Score set is Eric Karros. While Karros never achieved the superstar status of Piazza, he did have a solid 13-year career mostly spent with the Dodgers. Karros’ rookie card in near mint to mint condition sells in the $15-30 range today. His card remains attainable for collectors looking to add a key Dodgers player from the early 1990s to their collection.

For collectors interested in star pitchers of the early 90s, the 1992 Score set has a few notable cards. One is the rookie card of Pedro Martinez. Martinez’s rookie season was split between the Dodgers and Expos in 1992 before he emerged as a perennial Cy Young candidate. High grade versions of his rookie in the PSA 8-10 range have sold for upwards of $100 in recent years. Another top pitcher is Greg Maddux’s card from 1992. As one of the best pitchers of his generation, Maddux consistently delivers value. His 1992 Score sells for $10-20 in middle grades showing its enduring popularity.

The 1992 Score set also captured Atlanta Braves players from their dominant run in the early 1990s. Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and Steve Avery all have cards from their 1992 seasons that hold value. Near mint copies of these Braves aces can be acquired for $5-15 depending on the specific player. For a true high-end Braves card from the set, the Chipper Jones rookie is one to watch. Jones took the league by storm in 1995 but his rookie debut card is still one of the most coveted from the early 1990s Atlanta dynasty and fetches $50-150 in top grades.

Ken Griffey Jr’s ascent to superstardom is well documented in his basketball card collecting, but his 1992 Score issue remains a key mid-90s rookie to acquire. High grade versions near or in PSA 10 territory can command $100-250 today showing Griffey’s enduring popularity. Another hyped young star of that era featured is Frank Thomas. “The Big Hurt” burst onto the scene in 1990 winning the AL Rookie of the Year and his 1992 Score sells steady for $5-15. Alex Rodriguez also has his rookie debut in the 1992 Score set as a member of the Mariners organization. A-Rod rookie cards from any retail set in the early 90s hold value and his 1992 Score is no exception, fetching $20-40.

The 1992 Score set also included many rookie and star cards for teams who made deep postseason runs that year. The Blue Jays championship team is represented with rookie cards for Pat Hentgen, Roberto Alomar, and Dave Stewart that can be acquired for $5-15 each. The Atlanta Braves dominance is well documented with rookie issues of Glavine, Smoltz, and Justice. The Braves duo of Chipper Jones and Jeff Blauser also have valuable rookie entries from the set. And the Pittsburgh Pirates surprise pennant run that year included starter Doug Drabek and closer Stan Belinda among the key contributors with rookie issues as well.

While not the biggest or flashiest set of the early 1990s, the 1992 Score baseball card set provides a snapshot of that era with many stars and future Hall of Famers making their rookie debuts or featured as established names. Key rookies like Piazza, Martinez, Griffey Jr. and Chipper Jones anchor the set in long-term value. But there are also many affordable and attainable stars, contributors, and team cards that paint the picture of the 1992 MLB season. For collectors looking to add quality early 90s content without breaking the bank, the 1992 Score set offers a fun and nostalgic basketball card investing option worth exploring.

SCORE 1989 MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Major League Baseball season was one of transition as the sport moved towards the dominance of teams valued the power of long ball over pitching and defense that would define the 1990s. The 1989 baseball card season captured these changes as new stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Barry Bonds began to emerge on the backs of flashy rookie cards while legends like Mike Schmidt neared retirement. For collectors of 1989 Topps, Donruss, Fleer and Score baseball cards, it was an exciting time to be building a collection with memorable rookie cards and talented veterans still in their primes.

Score was a smaller baseball card company than the big three of Topps, Donruss and Fleer but released innovative sets that appealed to collectors. Their 1989 offering featured dramatic action photography and creative design elements that stood out among the competition. At the forefront was the “Diamond Kings” insert set highlighting 16 of the game’s superstars in uniform but in dramatic posed scenes away from the field. Ken Griffey Jr., Jose Canseco and Nolan Ryan were some of the young and old talent featured in these showcase cards. Another unique aspect of 1989 Score was the “Bat Kings” parallel set using the same photographs as the Diamond Kings but with the players holding their signature bats.

Beyond the innovative inserts, the 1989 Score base set roster provided a who’s who of the era. Cardinal greats like Ozzie Smith and Vince Coleman led the National League while power hitters like Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco topped the American League ranks. Righthander Nolan Ryan’s impressive career was immortalized in his Houston Astros uniform after leaving the Angels. Young stars like Kirby Puckett and Sandy Alomar Jr. had breakout 1988 seasons setting themselves up for superb careers captured early in the 1989 Score collection.

On the rookie front, future Hall of Famer Barry Bonds debuted with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His imposing 6’1, 190 lb. frame and Lefty swing seemed destined for stardom in his rookie card. Ken Griffey Jr also had his first card issued after making his Major League debut in right field for the Seattle Mariners in 1989. The spikey haired 19-year old showed why he was one of baseball’s top prospects and signs of a long, successful career ahead. Other notable rookies included pitchers Roger Clemens(Red Sox), Mark Gardner(Red Sox) and catcher Sandy Martinez(Pirates).

Veteran superstars still dotted the Score checklist in 1989 like Wade Boggs with the Red Sox, Fernando Valenzuela with the Dodgers and the ageless Nolan Ryan preparing to break yet another record. But the changing of the guard was evident with power hitters rewriting home run records. Canseco blasted 42 home runs leading the A’s offensive charge while sluggers like Will Clark, Kevin Mitchell and Mark McGwire also eclipsed the 30 home run plateau.

For collectors of the 1989 Score baseball card set, finding and completing the 660 card base roster provided a detailed who’s who of the era. Chasing after parallel inserts like “Diamond Kings”, “Bat Kings” and “Record Breakers” showed the creative ways Score designed sets beyond the standard base cards. With strong rookie classes headlined by Bonds and Griffey Jr. coupled with veterans like Ryan and Boggs, the 1989 Score collection is a time capsule to one of transition in Major League Baseball history toward the elite power era soon to come. Finding graded examples of these stars’ rookie and prime years cards remains a hobby highlight for collectors today.

From a investment standpoint, some of the top grades 1989 Score rookie cards have held strong values. A PSA 10 Griffey Jr. regularly brings over $1000. A PSA 9 Bonds tops $400. Even non-rookie cards like a PSA 10 Boggs or Ryan crack $100. Lower grade examples are also attainable investments for collectors on a budget, especially for famous veterans. Condition is especially important to consider for the 26 year old Score set when purchasing today.

The 1989 Score baseball card set offers collectors a unique glimpse at the end of one era and start of another in Major League Baseball during the late 1980s. With innovative inserts and spikey action photography beyond the typical offerings that year, Score captured stars of the recent past, present and future. Chasing key rookies like Bonds and Griffey Jr. along with veterans primes make this an enduring classic set for the hobby. Those willing to pay premiums for top grades can find sound long term investments as well from the talented roster featured.

1990 UNOPENED SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Score baseball card set holds a special place in the hobby for many longtime collectors. Released at the height of baseball card mania in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the 1990 Score set features some of the game’s biggest stars from that era and remains a flagship product from Score, one of the original modern brands. For collectors who have never opened a pack of these cards, 1990 Score boxes and unopened wax packs that have remained sealed for over 30 years offer a glimpse into the past of the hobby and the thrill of the unknown finds that could still remain hidden inside.

1990 was a banner year for baseball with stars like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and Wade Boggs putting up incredible individual seasons. The already potent rosters of teams like the Oakland A’s, Cincinnati Reds, and Boston Red Sox were showcased on the cardboard. Rosters included over 600 major and minor leaguers. The design aesthetic of Score cards from this time period had a classic, no-nonsense look featuring straightforward action shots on a white or cream color background. Team logos and colors ran along the borders. Statistics and player info boxes were included on the reverse.

Since their original release, the allure and mystique around unopened 1990 Score packs and factory-sealed boxes has only grown stronger with time. Finding intact and unworn wax wrappers from a set released over three decades ago is a true rarity today. The thrill of the rip and randomness of the pack-pull experience remains untapped for products that have sat on shelves, in attics, basements or storage units all these years. With only the universe of possibilities contained within scoring big hits like serial numbered parallels, stars, or oddball inserts still unknown.

For patient collectors, holding 1990 Score packs or boxes in mint condition for such an extended time period has proven to be a sound long-term investment strategy as well. Prices for sealed wax from the late 1980s and early 1990s at the original retail level have skyrocketed in recent years, appreciating dramatically as supplies dwindle and demand rises amongst intent vintage hunters. Even opening a single pack or box to experience the rip of the plastic and reveal the surprising contents inside can net a handsome profit these days considering the original MSRP of $1-2 per pack.

When 1990 Score was first released, the set counted as one of the hottest and most desirable products on the baseball card market. Score was a formidable force in the industry that timed releases impeccably to capitalize on the sports card boom. Strategic distribution to outlets like Walmart, Kmart, and regional chains ensured wide availability at affordable prices. The affordability of Score brands including Donruss, Fleer, and Upper Deck made collecting complete sets an attainable goal for many entry-level enthusiasts just getting started in the hobby too.

Despite the sheer printing volumes of Score brands from this period to satisfy voracious demand, the passage of over 30 years has winnowed supplies considerably of the original factory-sealed packaging. Natural attrition through casual openings, damaged packs, production flaws, or lost/forgotten stashes has whittled away at once abundant stocks. Meanwhile, dedicated collectors have swooped in to acquire and preserve surviving sealed boxes or loose packs as prized vintage inventory for set registries or long-term holdings. This convergence of decreased supply and amplified collector fervor has heightened prices exponentially relative to original MSRPs.

In the consumer culture context of when 1990 Score was first distributed, opening packs was as much about the thrill of the rip and hunt as it was securing cards for albums or trade piles. Subjecting pristine sealed wax to the vagaries of three decade old random pack odds or box sorting would have been unthinkable. With the passage of time, 1990 Score in mint condition has transitioned to a true wax grail coveted as a prized trophy piece by savvy vintage collectors. Especially in the COVID pandemic era, the challenge, reward and “steal” potential of what may still lie in wait inside an untouched pack or box from this storied set holds tremendous mystique and appeal.

Whether seeking a rush by ripping open a 30-year old pack of unknown contents or preserving the time capsule perfection of a 1990 Score box, investing in surviving sealed singles or full cases of this legendary release trades on baseball card nostalgia in its purest form. For those who may never have experienced the thrill of the pack rip from baseball’s golden age in the late 80s, early 90s up until today, 1990 Score packs and boxes offer a rare and exciting portal back to that joyful discovery driven era of the hobby’s past. In an marketplace where sealed vintage wax is becoming exponentially scarce, examples from such an iconic release year retain tremendous long term merit as blue chip collector’s pieces.

The allure and mystique around unopened 1990 Score packs and factory-sealed boxes rests in the untapped thrill of the rip three decades later and the potential for surprise hits or oddball parallels still waiting in wax limbo. With entire teams, serial numbered parallels and rare inserts still lurking within sealed inventory, the unknown component fuels collector fervor for a baseball card release that defined an era over 30 years ago. Whether holding out for appreciation or giving into the rush of the rip, 1990 Score sealed wax trades heavily on baseball card nostalgia in its purest form and the untamed excitement that still lays dormant inside for the right collector to unleash.