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SCORE 91 BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1991 Score baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Score brand exploded in popularity during this time period and produced numerous memorable rookie cards and star player cards that remain highly coveted by collectors to this day. Within the 1991 Score set there are a handful of cards that stand out as being significantly more valuable than the rest of the set due to their ultra-rare printing errors, star power, or due to capturing a unique moment in a player’s career. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and sought after 1991 Score baseball cards.

Perhaps the single most valuable and famous card from the 1991 Score set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey burst onto the MLB scene in 1989 and quickly established himself as a generational superstar and one of the most exciting young players baseball had seen in decades. His smooth left-handed swing and athleticism in center field captivated fans everywhere. The Griffey Score rookie is one of the cleanest and most iconic designs from the entire brand’s history, featuring a colorful action shot of Griffey swinging the bat. Due to the extremely small print run and Griffey’s all-time great status, PSA 10 gem mint examples of this card regularly sell for well over $10,000. Lower graded copies still fetch thousands as any Griffey rookie is a key chase card for vintage collectors.

Another Griffey card that has markedly increased in value in recent years is the 1991 Score Traded serial number card variation. This special parallel features the same Griffey design as the base rookie but with the addition of a printed serial number along the bottom edge. Due to an apparent printing error, it’s estimated that only 100-200 of these rare serial number parallels were produced, making them exponentially scarcer than even the most valuable base Griffey rookies. In gem mint PSA 10 condition, the serial numbered variants have sold for upwards of $50,000, a true seven figure price tag for mint examples still in their original sealed packs. Any collector with this ultra-rare Griffey variant in their collection owns one of the crown jewels of the entire hobby.

In addition to being the year of Griffey’s rookie phenomenon, 1991 Score also featured the rookie seasons of a trio of all-time great starting pitchers – Pedro Martinez, John Smoltz, and Pat Hentgen. Martinez and Smoltz went on to have Hall of Fame careers and remain active fan favorites to this day for their dominant stuff on the mound. Despite coming later in their careers than Griffey, Pedro and Smoltz rookie cards still command big prices due to their players’ legends and the scarcity of high grade examples available. A PSA 10 Pedro Martinez rookie sold for over $22,000 in mid-2022, while PSA 10 Smoltz rookies have climbed above the $10,000 mark.

Pat Hentgen’s rookie season in 1991 wasn’t quite as illustrious as Pedro and Smoltz’s, but he did win the American League Cy Young award that year while pitching for the Toronto Blue Jays. The Hentgen 1991 Score Cy Young variation card celebrates this special achievement and features a unique design highlighting his award on the front. Due to the extremely small print run and Hentgen’s unlikely Cy Young win at the time, these rare parallel cards have surged in value to over $5,000 for top graded copies. Like the Pedro and Smoltz rookies, finding high graded Hentgen Cy Young parallels from the notoriously problematic 1991 Score set is no small task.

Aside from the Griffey and Martinez, Smoltz, Hentgen rookie chases, two stars from the early 90s New York Yankees dynasty also hold immense value in the 1991 Score set – Bernie Williams and Derek Jeter. Bernie Williams was coming into his own as one of baseball’s best young center fielders during the 1991 season while Jeter was in the early stages of his decade-plus run as the Yankees’ captain and shortstop. Williams emerged from a crowded Yankee outfield and established himself as a true superstar, making several All-Star teams and winning four Gold Gloves in center.

Due to their Yankee pedigree and playing prominent roles on the dynasty teams of the late 90s, Williams and Jeter1991 Score rookies are must-own cards for collectors of the era. PSA 10 examples of the Williams have climbed above $3,000 while the ultra-hyped Jeter rookie remains a steady $2,000-4,000 card depending on exact market conditions and subgrade. Any high grade copies of either the Williams or Jeter are rare finds today considering the two future hall of famers’ sheer quantity of 1991 Score rookie cards produced during the print run boom of the baseball card bubble era.

While mint rookie cards of future Hall of Famers drive the lion’s share of 1991 Score value, the coveted “Jeffrey Maier” Derek Jeter error card stands alone as one of the strangest and most desired oddball variants in the entire set. During Game 1 of the 1996 ALCS, young fan Jeffrey Maier clearly interfered with a live ball that flipped the game’s outcome in the Yankees favor, propelling them to yet another championship. The 1991 Score printing plates mistakenly contained an image of this infamous playoff play, depicting a young Maier reaching over the right field fence on Jeter’s famous home run. Just a tiny handful of these remarkably rare error variants are known to exist today. In the exceedingly few auction appearances a Maier error has made, prices have exceeded $50,000 due to the card’s famous one-of-a-kind nature capturing a bizarre playoff moment.

While sports card values are inherently speculative, the 1991 Score baseball set consistently produces champion level rookie cards and investment-worthy stars two decades after its original release. The combination of a burgeoning industry, young superstar talent, and ultra-rare parallels and errors have cemented select 1991 Score cards as truly iconic pieces of memorabilia and lifelong collecting goals. Whether chasing a PSA 10 Griffey, Pedro, or Williams rookie or unearthing a undiscovered Maier error in a collection, the 1991 Score set continues to enthrall collectors old and new with its captivating photography, memories of the early 90s MLB landscape, and monumentally valuable rookie base cards.

1987 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1987 baseball card season was one of the most memorable in the history of the hobby. Fans were transfixed by some incredible individual performances and playoff races that year. Meanwhile, major card companies like Topps, Fleer and Donruss issued hundreds of different baseball cards to collectors. With the passage of time, some of those 1987 baseball cards have grown tremendously in value for enthusiasts. Below is an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and desirable 1987 baseball cards that still fetch high prices among collectors today.

Perhaps the single most coveted and expensive 1987 baseball card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card issued by Upper Deck. Griffey was already one of the brightest young stars in baseball in 1987 and living up to enormous expectations. ButUpper Deck helped elevate the hobby to new heights when they debuted as the first new major baseball card manufacturer in over 2 decades. Their photographic quality and exquisite card designs were lightyears ahead of the competition. Naturally, Griffey’s rookie in the brand’s inaugural set is the crown jewel. With a sharp photo and classic design featuring his signature hat toss, it quickly became a must-have for any collection. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie now regularly sells for well over $10,000 and some have even changed hands for upwards of $25,000. No other 1987 card even comes close to rivaling its tremendous worth.

Another exceptionally valuable 1987 rookie is that of Hall of Famer Barry Bonds issued by Topps. Like Griffey, Bonds was already on his way to superstardom just one year into his big league career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His imposing physique and left-handed power swing were intimidating. Topps distributed Bonds’ first baseball card to the masses in 1987. Despite its more common nature compared to Griffey’s Upper Deck rookie, a pristine Bonds 1987 Topps rookie in a respected third-party grading company holder has still sold for as much as $3,500. It remains one of the most significant rookie cards for any player.

Two other top rookie cards from the famous 1987 season are Mark McGwire’s Fleer issue and Bo Jackson’s Topps card. McGwire was just beginning to show signs of the overwhelming power that would make him a star for Oakland and St. Louis. His first Fleer issue documents the beginnings of “Big Mac.” Graded mint examples have reached over $1,000 at auction. Meanwhile, Jackson was a true dual-sport phenomenon, playing baseball for the Kansas City Royals while still starring on Sundays in the NFL for the Los Angeles Raiders. Naturally, his baseball card debut in 1987 Topps was one of the most in-demand inclusions in the set. Even ungraded, a nice Jackson 1987 Topps rookie can sell for $500 or more because of his legendary athletic status.

The headlining rookies are not the only highly-valued 1987 cards, though. Veterans, stars and Hall of Famers from that season also hold considerable worth. One of the costliest is the Nolan Ryan expressed interest in 1987 Upper Deck card. As one of the original inclusions in the pioneering brand’s first baseball offering, it became a must-have. When paired with the fact that Ryan was already a living legend and on the verge of even more milestones, it helped drive up demand. Pristine examples with perfect centering have changed hands for over $1,500 before. Other star veterans like Ozzie Smith, Roger Clemens and Wade Boggs can also command four-figure prices in top condition from the monumental 1987 Upper Deck set alone.

Outside of Upper Deck, several star-studded 1987 rookies and veterans from Donruss and Fleer reside high on want lists as well. One is the Dwight Gooden rookie from Donruss, featuring “Doc” in classic Mets livery. It remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing baseball card designs ever. Graded mint Gooden rookies have reached up to $750. Fellow Mets legend Darryl Strawberry also has a desirable first Donruss issue. Over in Fleer, the Nolan Ryan “Astros” card showing him with Houston is coveted. When graded and preserved perfectly, examples from those inserts have changed hands for $500-600 alone in recent years. The iconic Ken Phelps error card from 1987 Donruss, mistakenly featuring his name but Mookie Wilson’s photo also resides in the four-figure range in mint condition.

While not necessarily rivals to the iconic rookies, stars and Upper Deck cards, select 1987 issues from lower print run brands like Score also hold value. Their reduced distributions and quality cardboard stock have made specimens from that year’s offerings slightly more elusive 35 years later. Among the most expensive include the Roger Clemens (#25), Cal Ripken Jr. (#7), Ozzie Smith (#27), Rickey Henderson (#5) and Eric Davis (#6) cards. When found in pristine condition protected long-term in professional slabs, those relatively more scarce Score inserts from the golden 1987 season have reached $400-550 in recent auction histories. It exemplifies how 35 years later, even cards outside the true blue-chip 1987 rookies and stars remain significant to dedicated collectors.

In summation, the memorable 1987 baseball season was truly one for the ages – both on the field and in the hobby. The arrival of new manufacturers like Upper Deck took trading cards to a new stratosphere. Meanwhile, all-time great rookies like Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Mark McGwire and Bo Jackson had their cardboard coming out parties. Star veterans and Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith and Roger Clemens also shone bright. Dozens of their classic 1987 cardboard issues have grown enormously valuable as a result. For dedicated collectors, owning a pristine example of any of these blue-chip ’87 cards remains an impressive feat and sound investment today. The season’s cardboard legacy as one of the most collectible ever lives on.

90 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS PRICE LIST

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Vintage baseball cards from the 1980s and early 1990s that grade a 90 on the standard 10-point scale can be extremely valuable. While condition is obviously very important for determining value, there are other factors like player, year, set and more that influence pricing. Let’s take a deeper look at what 90 score baseball cards from the late 20th century are worth in today’s market.

One of the most expensive 90 grade cards is a 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was one of the most hyped prospects ever and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His rookie card from the pioneering Upper Deck set is the most coveted card from the late 80s/early 90s period. In a PSA Gem Mint 10 condition, it can sell for over $100,000. At a 90 grade though, the price is still very high at around $15,000-$20,000 depending on auction activity and demand.

Another extremely valuable 90 grade card is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie. The Mick is arguably the most iconic player in baseball history and his 1952 Topps debut is the holy grail for vintage collectors. Even with centering/corner wear bringing it down to a 90, it commands an astounding $50,000-$70,000 price tag. Mantle’s status as a true legend and the rarity of any vintage rookie in high grade makes this a blue chip investment piece.

Staying in the 1950s, a 90 grade 1957 Topps Hank Aaron rookie would be valued at $15,000-$20,000 as well. Aaron finished his career as the all-time home run king and his rookie card remains quite scarce in high grade. Like Mantle, any vintage HOFer rookie in the 90-92 range on the scale is big money.

Switching to the 1960s, a 90 grade 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie could sell for $10,000-$15,000 based on recent sales. Ryan’s 5,714 career strikeouts make him the all-time king in that category and his 1968 rookie is one of the most iconic of that decade. Strong demand exists for high grade examples.

From the 1970s, a 90 grade 1975 Topps George Brett rookie would carry an estimate of $8,000-$12,000. Brett was a 12-time All-Star, won 3 batting titles and led the Royals to a World Series championship in 1985. As one of the premier 3B of his era, his rookie card holds great value, especially in top-notch condition.

In the 1980s arena, a 90 grade 1984 Topps Donruss Wade Boggs rookie has sold in the $4,000-$6,000 range. Boggs was the model of consistency, winning 5 batting titles and hitting over .300 in 15 straight seasons. His rookie card has gained collector interest in recent years.

From the early 1990s, here are the values for some key 90 grade rookies:

1992 Upper Deck Alex Rodriguez: $3,000-$5,000
1992 Bowman’s Best Derek Jeter: $2,500-$4,000
1992 Upper Deck Frank Thomas: $2,000-$3,500
1991 Upper Deck Chipper Jones: $2,000-$3,000
1990 Score Jeff Bagwell: $1,500-$2,500
1991 Topps Barry Larkin: $1,000-$2,000

So in summary, 90 grade baseball cards from the late 20th century that feature legendary players, especially their rookie cards, can still fetch substantial prices anywhere from $1,000 to over $50,000 depending on the name and vintage of the card. Condition is critical, but history, supply/demand and the player’s career accomplishments also factor heavily into valuation. With care and research, collecting and holding 90 grade vintage and modern cards can prove a worthwhile long-term investment.

MOST VALUABLE 1995 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1995 Score baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable card issues from the early and mid-1990s. While it didn’t feature any major rookie cards, the 1995 Score set contained several key veteran cards that have grown tremendously in value over the past 25+ years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable cards collectors seek out from the 1995 Score baseball release.

Ken Griffey Jr. – Griffey was already established as one of the game’s biggest stars by 1995, having won back-to-back American League MVP awards in 1990-1991 with the Seattle Mariners. His superb talent, outstanding production, and exciting style of play made him one of the most popular players in baseball. As a result, any Griffey card from the mid-90s holds significant value. His 1995 Score card, featuring him in a Mariners uniform, routinely fetches well over $100 in Near Mint-Mint condition. PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 examples have reached prices upwards of $400-$500 in recent years due to Griffey’s Hall of Fame career and status as one of the all-time fan favorite players.

Cal Ripken Jr. – Ripken was in the midst of his incredible consecutive games played streak in 1995, which would end at an astonishing 2,632 straight games played over almost two full decades. That milestone, achieved in 1995, is part of what makes his 1995 Score card so desirable today. The card depicts Ripken suited up for the Baltimore Orioles and has sold for as much as $80-$100 graded Mint and above. Like Griffey, Pristine/Gem Mint Ripken ’95 Score cards have sold for $300+ due to his iconic status and Iron Man legacy with Baltimore.

Barry Bonds – As one of the game’s premier power hitters throughout the 1990s, Bonds’ 1995 Score card holds great value. This was prior to his record-setting 73 home run season in 2001 with the Giants, but Bonds was still putting up MVP caliber numbers as the star left fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His ’95 Score card routinely fetches $60+ in top-rated condition. Bonds’ historically successful career, which included the all-time home run record, only adds to the long-term collectible nature of his mid-90s cards.

Roberto Alomar – The smooth-fielding second baseman was a consistent All-Star caliber player throughout his career, including the mid-90s with the Toronto Blue Jays and Orioles. His 1995 Score issue shows him in a Baltimore uniform about halfway through his 12-year career. Graded Mint Alomar ’95 Scores have reached over $50 recently. Despite some controversy later in his career, Alomar remains one of the finest defensive second basemen ever and that further enhances the desirability of his vintage cardboard.

Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt” was in the midst of one of the great offensive runs in baseball history during the mid-1990s. He followed up back-to-back AL MVP awards in 1993-1994 with another monstrous season in 1995. That sustained dominance makes his 1995 Score card, portraying him as the power-hitting Chicago White Sox first baseman, a highly sought card to this day. Thomas examples graded Gem Mint 10 have reached $150-200 auction prices. Even raw or lower grade Thomas ’95 Scores can fetch $30-50.

Larry Walker – Though he wouldn’t earn mainstream recognition for quite some time, Walker was putting up huge numbers as the Montreal Expos right fielder during this time period. His combination of power, speed, defense, and consistent production has only grown in appreciation since Walker’s playing days ended in 2005. As a result, his 1995 Score card featuring him in an Expos cap has increased dramatically in value in recent vintage card market. Mint Walker ’95 Scores have sold for $75-100 range in recent auctions. That figure is likely only to increase as Walker’s Hall of Fame case strengthens over time. A rare PSA 10 example could go for $250 and up.

Greg Maddux – Already during what was the peak of his incredible career, the dominant right-handed ace was in the midst of potentially his finest season in 1995. Maddux would go on to win his third-straight NL Cy Young Award courtesy of another outstanding year for the Atlanta Braves. As one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, the 1995 Score card of Maddux has become one of the more valuable pitching cards from the era. BGS/PSA Mint examples have sold for $60-80, with Gem Mint 10s reaching triple digits or more.

Chipper Jones – While not quite an established star yet, rookie cards from the 1990s of future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones are always highly sought. His 1995 Score card shows him just starting out as the promising Atlanta third baseman still with promise yet to be fulfilled. Chipper examples graded Mint to Gem Mint can still be acquired for $30-50. As one of the genuine superstars of his generation, prices are only expected to increase for iconic Jones rookie cards like his 1995 Score issue in the years ahead.

Randy Johnson – “The Big Unit” had asserted himself as one of baseball’s most intimidating and dominant pitchers by 1995 with Seattle. Standing an imposing 6-foot-10, left-hander Johnson was already displaying the filthy stuff that would make him a five-time Cy Young winner. Although not his true rookie card, Randy’s 1995 Score depiction as a Mariner is highly valuable today. Graded examples have reached $60-80 on the vintage card market. As one of the all-time great hurlers, Johnson cards retain their collectibility.

While they may not rival the true rookie cards of Griffey, Ripken or Alomar for monetary value, the 1995 Score cards for stars like Maddux, Thomas, Bonds, Walker, Jones and Johnson are extremely affordable opportunities to acquire lasting pieces of cardboard history from the 1990s for under $100 graded Mint or better in most cases. For collectors looking to build positional subsets, certain 1995 Score cards like those of Alomar, Ripken and Bonds represent affordable options to highlight their collections. Whether speculating on long-term growth or enjoying the nostalgia of the vintage designs, cards from Score’s popular 1995 release will likely continue garnering interest from collectors for decades to come.

TOP 10 1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Score baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the decade. Coming off several exciting seasons and some big player moves, there was plenty of buzz around the rookie cards and star players that would be featured. While it didn’t have flashy design aesthetics compared to some other brands, Score focused on quality photography and capturing the essence of that baseball season. Let’s take a look at the 10 most valuable and desirable cards from the 1990 Score set as collectibles today.

Coming in at number 10 is Kirby Puckett’s base card. Puckett was already an established star by 1990, having just finished 5th in MVP voting the previous year while leading the Twins to the division. His outstanding career would continue for several more seasons. Puckett’s smooth left-handed swing and Gold Glove defense in center field made him a fan favorite. While not his most valuable card, his 1990 Score issue remains a solid pickup for any Puckett PC due to his Hall of Fame career. Grading a PSA 10, it sells for around $150-200 presently.

At number 9 is Jose Canseco’s rookie card. Canseco had just exploded onto the scene in 1988 by winning Rookie of the Year and the MVP award while leading the league with 42 home runs in his debut season. His prodigious power striking ability was must-see TV for fans. Though injuries would slow his career trajectory, Canseco’s hype and dominance as one of the first true blue-chip rookies of the steroid era gives his rookie card lasting appeal. A PSA 10 example can bring in roughly $250-$300 in the current market.

Cracking the top 8 is Nolan Ryan’s base card. Ryan was already a living legend by 1990 at age 43, holding numerous all-time pitching records. His amazing longevity and intimidating 100 MPH fastball made him a fan favorite for over two decades. While not one of his more valued rookie cards, Ryan’s inclusion in the 1990 Score set is a reminder of his incredible career. A PSA 10 of this card would sell in the $300 range based on recent eBay sales.

At number 7 is Barry Bonds’ MVP season card from 1990. That season, Bonds posted eye-popping numbers of .301 batting average, 33 home runs, 114 RBI and finished 2nd in MVP voting for the Pirates. Though the card doesn’t feature his true Rookie Cardinals, this was an early testament to Bonds emerging superstar abilities before his record-setting career with the Giants. A PSA 10 could fetch $350-400 in the current trading market.

Cracking the top 5 at number 6 is Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card. The son of former player Ken Griffey Sr, all of baseball was eager to see the skills of the young Griffey in 1990. And he didn’t disappoint, batting .264 with 16 homers and 47 RBI in his debut season before winning Rookie of the Year honors. Widely considered one of the most talented five-tool players ever, Griffey Jr. was a thrill to watch from the beginning. In high grades, his rookie card remains amongst the most desirable and valuable from the era, with a PSA 10 example reaching well over $1,000.

At number 5 is Rickey Henderson’s base card from 1990. Already a prolific base stealer with over 300 in his career to that point, Henderson was still in his prime stealing bases at will for the A’s. Regarded as the greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner of all time, Henderson exemplified exciting, game-changing baseball. His 1990 Score issue celebrates that dynamic playing style. A PSA 10 could bring in around $500-600 today.

Cracking the top half of the list at number 4 is Frank Thomas’ rookie card. Nicknamed ‘The Big Hurt,’ Thomas announced his arrival in the majors by batting .318 with 21 home runs and 70 RBI, finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting. His powerful left-handed swing and ability to spray line drives to all fields foreshadowed a Hall of Fame career hitting for both power and average. High grade examples of his flagship rookie card remain a blue-chip acquisition, with a PSA 10 selling for $750-1000.

At number 3 is Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1990 Upper Deck rookie variation card. Considered the true Griffey rookie by collectors, it depicts him in a Mariners batting stance from his debut season. Printed in the ill-fated Upper Deck set which suffered from poor quality control, high grade versions remain among the most valuable modern sports cards. In a PSA 10 gem mint state, it can sell for over $10,000 due to its amazing eye appeal and place in history as “the” Griffey rookie.

Cracking the top 2 slots is Nolan Ryan’s record-setting 5,000th strikeout card from the 1990 Score Traded set. On August 22, 1989, Ryan became the first and still only pitcher to reach the 5,000 career strikeout milestone. This historic achievement is immortalized on this coveted card. In top condition, it can sell for upwards of $15,000-$20,000 at auction due to its very limited print run and celebration of one of baseball’s most unbreakable records.

And coming in at number 1 is Frank Thomas’ 1990 Bowman rookie card variations. Considered the true prize of Thomas collectors, the short printed Bowman variations are the rarest and most iconic Frank Thomas rookie cards. They show a more close-up image of Thomas in a Blue Jays batting stance from early in his career. Extremely difficult to grade high due to poor centering and print quality issues from Bowman at the time, a PSA 10 is virtually unobtanium. Even residing in PSA 9 condition, they have sold at auction for well over $30,000 before due to their rarity and importance in the Thomas rookie collection.

While not all of baseball’s best from 1990 are encapsulated here, this list provides a sampling of some the most historically significant and valuable cards from that release. Players like Cal Ripken Jr, Dwight Gooden, and Roberto Alomar who also had excellent seasons could easily make outroswn lists. But the cards of Thomas, Griffey, Ryan and others show why the 1990 Score set launch pad for new stars and captured the past achievements of baseball greats remains such an important release for collectors today. High grades of these cards represent some of the best long term investments in the hobby.

1989 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS VALUES

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The 1989 Score baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. With 762 total cards featuring every MLB player as well as managers, umpires, and team checklists, collectors from the era grew up with these cardboard treasures and they remain beloved by many today. While the average card from the ’89 Score set holds relatively little monetary worth, there are certainly stand-out rookie cards and stars of the day that can still command high prices when in pristine condition over 30 years later.

One of the rookie gems from the 1989 offerings is Griffey Jr. RC #383. As one of the most hyped prospects ever who went on to have a Hall of Fame career, Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie remains among the crown jewels for collectors. Near mint to mint copies often sell for $150-300 in modern auctions while a true gem mint PSA 10 can go for upwards of $3,000 given Griffey’s legendary status. Another powerful rookie to watch out for is #431 Frank Thomas, known as the “Big Hurt.” With his back-to-back MVP seasons in the 90s, Thomas established himself as one of the best hitters of his generation and his ’89 rookie card typically sells in the $50-100 range for good copies.

Staying on the offensive side, sluggers like #148 Freddie McGriff, #246 Kirby Puckett, and #149 Mark McGwire all have rookie cards from the 1989 Score set that are highly sought after. McGriff’s is likely the most affordable at $15-30 while Puckett and McGwire tend to fetch $50-150 depending on condition with the latter seeing more demand due to the steroid era notoriety. Power pitchers also shine bright, as #352 Tom Glavine, #379 Gregg Olson, #5 John Smoltz, and #35 Randy Johnson all have valuable rookies from this set priced $20-100 on average. Conversely, stars who were already established hold the most monetary worth.

Two of the most expensive regular issues from 1989 Score are #49 Ozzie Smith at $75-150 and #50 Wade Boggs at $100-200 in top grades. As defensive wizards and career .300 hitters who racked up accolades, these all-time greats remain fan favorites. Home run king #218 Barry Bonds also retains value in the $50-150 range depending on condition. For a truly elite gem, the ultra-rare #1 Ken Griffey Sr. checklist card printed on golden retro stock can sell for over $1,000 in pristine condition! Such premium parallel issues are also seen with the umpires, managers, and international subset focusing on Japanese stars like #759 Hideo Nomo.

Beyond rookies and stars, error cards and oddball parallel variations add tremendous rarity and pricing popcorn. The infamous #117 Nolan Ryan Printing Plate is legendary for being accidentally issued on gold film stock rather than the standard grey. Estimated to exist in fewer than 10 copies, this behemoth has sold at auction for upwards of $50,000. Another scarce anomaly is #573 Lenny Dykstra featuring an upside-down photograph, which has brought $3,000+ in Gem Mint.

While most 1989 Score baseball cards hold little monetary value today, the standouts from talent like Griffey Jr, Thomas, McGwire, Bonds, and more provide compelling collecting and investment opportunities for both nostalgic fans and card shows alike. With so many rookies and future Hall of Famers captured, this iconic release remains a pivotal part of hobby history. Condition is critical, so high grades significantly impact pricing on the set’s biggest keys from this impressive 762-card checklist full of stars and memories from baseball’s golden age.

MOST VALUABLE 1993 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Score baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Like other popular card sets from this era such as Fleer, Donruss, and Topps, the 1993 Score set featured elite players, rookies, and stars from the 1992 MLB season. While not the most widely collected brand during this time period, several 1993 Score cards have emerged as highly valuable modern collectibles due to scarce print runs and the star power of the featured players. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most lucrative 1993 Score cards that fetch high prices at auction today.

One of the most coveted and valuable 1993 Score cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was already emerging as a star by his early 90s rookie season with the Seattle Mariners. His rookie card from Score captured him in the midst of a mammoth home run swing with a bright yellow border. Only appearing briefly in Series 1 of the set before being pulled, the Griffey Score rookie is one of the scarcest modern rookie cards in existence with a print run estimated between 1000-5000 copies. In high grade it can sell for over $10,000, with a near-mint PSA 9 copy recently grabbing $23,000 at auction. The pristine condition and star power of Griffey make this one of the crown jewels for any vintage baseball card collection.

Another supremely valuable 1993 Score rookie is the Derek Jeter card, featuring the future Yankees captain in his true rookie season. Like Griffey, Jeter would go on to have a Hall of Fame career and his premiere Score RC also harbors significant rarity. With an even lower print run than Griffey believed to be under 1000 copies, high grade Jeter rookies fetch astronomical prices. A PSA 9 sold for $99,999 in 2018 while a flawless PSA 10 has reached upwards of $350,000 at auction. Even in lower grades, the iconic first Jeter card remains a highly sought trophy piece for collectors. Condition is absolutely critical to the card’s immense overall value.

One of the most dominant pitchers of the steroid era, Roger Clemens also has a prized Score issue from 1993. His main base card shows an intense close-up of the rocket armed hurler in mid-windup for the Boston Red Sox. While fairly common in low grades, pristine Clemens cards have gained steady value over the years. A BGS/BVG 9.5 recently hit $4320 while a true gem mint PSA 10 sold for a staggering $16,800. With 4 Cy Young awards and an inner circle Hall of Fame resume, the notoriety of Clemens helps drive strong prices for highest quality copies of his ’93 Score card in the vintage market.

Continuing the theme of all-time greats, the 1993Score set also featured the base card of Hall of Famer Barry Bonds in his 11th big league season with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bonds would go on to shatter the single season home run record in 2001 and win a record 7 MVP awards. High grade versions of his more common ’93 Score card have still achieved healthy prices reflective of his legendary career. A BGS/BVG 9.5 recently sold for $1555 while a perfect PSA 10 trades in the $4000-5000 range. Clean copies hold significant longterm collectibility and recognition as pieces of baseball history from the peak of Bonds’ playing days.

From the American League, slugging first baseman Fred McGriff also has a valuable issue in the ’93 Score set during his sole season with the Atlanta Braves. McGriff’s “Crime Dog” moniker made him a fan favorite in Toronto and Atlanta throughout the 1990s. His base card features him in an open batting stance with a yellow striped border that appears heavily off-centered or cut off in most printed versions. This unfortunate production flaw gives high grade McGriffs elite rarity and demand in the vintage market. A flawless PSA 10 is worth in the range of $10000-15000 today when available, showcasing the scarcity premium for a true perfect copy.

One of the more unique cards from 1993 Score is the uber-short printed Iván Rodríguez rookie card during his debut season catching for the Texas Rangers. Only about 5 are known to exist in mint condition. Even in lower grades, this original Rodríguez rookie is a prized find with a PSA 8 recently fetching $5680. As a 14-time All Star, 2-time AL MVP and 13-time Gold Glove winner behind the plate, Pudge has one of the strongest resumes in modern baseball history. His rookie alone from the Score brand embodies the ultimate in rarity and player performance value.

The 1993Score set also had the unique distinction of including veteran players’ cards from the Caribbean World Series. One of the most expensive from this international subset is the Pedro Martínez card showing him pitching for the Dominican Republic national team years before his MLB dominance. Widely considered one of the most gifted hurlers ever, a PSA 10 Martinez CWS card recently broke six-figures at auction. Even well-centered but lower graded copies still trade hands for multiple thousands. For advanced collectors, it’s a phenomenal way to represent Martinez before he terrorized big league hitters for the Expos, Red Sox, Mets and Phillies.

While not the most produced brand of its time, 1993 Score Baseball featured one of the most valuable vintage sets due to starring rookies of future Hall of Famers like Griffey, Jeter, and Rodriguez. Clean high grade copies of elite players’ base cards like Clemens, Bonds, and McGriff also command significant investment numbers. Short printedInternational subset variations like the Pedro Martínez Caribbean card occupy a unique space. With recognizable future stars and Hall of Famers, along with durable production quality, 1993 Score cards remain a wise longterm collecting pursuit for those invested in the highest end of the vintage sports card market.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1990 score baseball card set is one of the most beloved and iconic releases from the golden age of baseball cards in the late 80s and early 90s. The set captured the careers and achievements of all major league players during the 1990 season in vivid color photographs on a variety of unique and attractive card designs. For many collectors both young and old, obtaining a complete factory set of these 768 cards was the holy grail of their baseball card collecting journey during that time period. Let’s take a deeper look at what made the 1990 score set so special.

Released in 1991 by Score Board, Inc., the 1990 score baseball card set included all players from that season, managers, coaches, and even the top prospects and minor leaguers. What made this set stand out compared to others from competitors like Topps, Donruss, and Fleer was its large size of 768 total cards and the care that went into each player’s individual card design and photography. Score worked diligently to get high quality, up close headshots of every player in action through their partnerships with major league teams and photographers. This level of detail and care resulted in some of the most vibrant and memorable baseball card photos of the late 20th century.

In addition to the quality of the photos, the 1990 score set also featured diverse and creative card designs that helped each player’s story and stats really pop off the cardboard. Some examples include action sequence layouts for power hitters, tabular stat grids for pitching aces, and artistic renderings of iconic stadiums or positions for more seasoned veterans. Rookie and minor league prospects got their own unique designs as well to set them apart. The creative energy that went into crafting memorable and themed card designs for different player types was ahead of its time. It helped collectors form stronger emotional connections to their favorite players compared to the more generic designs of competitor sets.

The front of each card also featured something that set the 1990 score release apart – vibrant team logo artwork within elegant banner borders. These team crests integrated beautifully within the larger designs and really emphasized each player’s affiliation within vivid colors. They brought the on-field team identities to life right on the cardboard. The meticulous attention to visual details like these is why the 1990 score set endures as not only historically significant but also aesthetically pleasing to this day for collectors and fans.

In addition to the main base set of cards numbering 109 through 876, the 1990 score release also included several sought-after specialty subsets. The “Diamond Kings” subset featured 18 foil embossed cards highlighting the biggest stars of the day like Rickey Henderson, Roger Clemens, and Nolan Ryan. An 18 card “Rookie Signature” subset showcased promising first year players like Barry Larkin and Chuck Knoblauch with embossed autograph recreations. There was also a “Scoring Leaders” subset focused on the top offensive stat producers from the previous season. Collecting these prestigious subsets was an exciting bonus objective for collectors working to complete their 1990 score set.

Beyond the cards themselves, the 1990 score set release was also accompanied by several highly coveted autographed memorabilia cards inserted randomly in factory sealed wax packs and boxes. These included spectacular on-card autographs from superstars like Cal Ripken Jr., Andre Dawson, and Dave Stewart. Obtaining even a single one of these elusive memorabilia cards was akin to uncovering a buried treasure for young collectors at the time. They instantly became prized possessions worth far more than their rarity implied. The chance at pulling a game-used, autographed memorabilia card added an intense emotional element to the overall collecting chase of the 1990 score set.

The sheer size and completeness of the 1990 score set presented an immense challenge for collectors looking to obtain all 768 base cards plus the various subsets. It was a challenge that driving many to action. Kids would spend their weekly allowances on packs and boxes at local hobby shops and card shows looking to slowly chip away at their want lists. Trading with friends during lunch recess at school was also a big part of trying to find needed cards to progress closer to set completion. For those willing to make the effort, landing a 1990 score complete factory sealed set straight from the pack was a monumental feeling of achievement that is still fondly remembered today.

In the decades since its release, the 1990 score baseball card set has attained legendary status among collectors and maintained a highly coveted presence in the hobby. Many who completed it as kids in the early 90s still have their sets intact in protective sheets and boxes as a reminder of simpler times. Meanwhile, new generations of fans and collectors still seek out the chance to acquire a pristine factory sealed complete set for their collections, continuing its story. The creative photography, memorable designs, high number of cards, and coveted autograph memorabilia inserts all combined to make the 1990 score baseball card set an unmatched representation of the peak era of the sport on cardboard. It remains one of the crowning achievements in the history of the hobby.

The 1990 score baseball card release has cemented its place as one of the most iconic and beloved card sets of all time thanks to the care and creativity that went into its massive base set, subsets, and inserts over 30 years ago. For collectors both young and old, obtaining a complete factory set presented a journey and sense of accomplishment like no other during the sports card boom of the late 80s and early 90s. Even after all these decades, the creative photography and vibrant designs still jump off the cardboard in a way that has endured the test of time. The 1990 score baseball cards were a true representation of the apex era for the hobby.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS FULL SET VALUE

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The 1990 score baseball card set holds nostalgic value for many people who collected cards in the early 90s. Beyond sentimental attachment, the question remains – what is the monetary value of having a complete 1990 score set in mint condition? To understand the value, we must look at supply and demand factors, the condition of the cards, and compare to sales data.

Released in 1990 by Sportflix/Score Board, the flagship set includes 792 total cards spanning all 26 Major League teams at the time. The design features players photographed from head to toe in uniform on a solid color background. Rosters were finalized late in the 1989 season, so the set represents the last year many stars played before roster moves in 1990. Notable HOFers like Nolan Ryan in his final season and Gary Carter in his second-to-last year add to the nostalgic appeal for fans of that era.

In terms of supply, the run was quite large for a modern sports card release. According to Beckett Almanac, between 100-200 million total packs were produced. While an enormous number, it still did not meet overwhelming consumer demand at baseball’s height of popularity in the late 80s/early 90s. As such, finding a pristine full set today can be quite difficult. The sheer number of cards, combined with three decades of potential wear and tear, means most sets on the secondary market are incomplete or suffer condition issues.

Let’s examine recent sales to gauge the true worth of a 1990 Score set in mint condition. In March 2022, a full base set in near-mint to mint (NM-MT) condition fetched $599.99 on eBay. In August 2021, another NM-MT set sold for $699.99. These auctions included only the main 792 card base checklist and no extras. They give a real-world data point on current market value.

To maximize value, condition is paramount. Minor flaws or dings can cut hundreds of dollars off a price. A complete set in excellent (EX) condition sold recently for just $270. An incomplete but higher graded near-mint (NM) group of 500+ cards from the set went for $375. These condition dependent prices reinforce how condition impacts worth.

We can also look at individual card values from the set to understand why a full NM-MT set may be valued around $600-700. Stars like Nolan Ryan and Rickey Henderson regularly sell for $20-40 individually in comparable grade. Lesser known commons are $1-5 apiece. All-Star inserts add $15-30 each. Using these individual prices as a baseline, acquiring all 792 complete in top condition would logically total around the $600 mark after accounting for demand and convenience factors.

Going forward, a pristine 1990 Score set will likely continue a gradual appreciation of around 3-5% annually to match inflation. Rarity of finding the full run in top condition will maintain steady demand from collectors. The large original print run means increases will remain modest barring unexpected catalysts. Another full near-mint example could easily fetch over $800 within 5 years. But values are unlikely to surge rapidly given the set’s accessibility during the junk wax era.

A complete 1990 Score baseball card set in near mint to mint condition holds a current market value between $600-700 based on recent sales comps. Condition drastically affects worth, so a lower graded set could lose hundreds. Individual card values provide context that a pristine full set aligns with recent auction sums. While appreciation will be modest long-term, the 1990 Score checklist remains a fun and nostalgic collection for players and fans from baseball’s late 80s/early 90s heyday. Finding the full run in top condition is a challenge, cementing value for collectors three decades after release.

BO JACKSON SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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Bo Jackson was one of the most uniquely gifted athletes of all time. Despite only playing baseball part-time while also pursuing a career in the NFL, Jackson made his mark on the diamond through jaw-dropping performances and a small but memorable baseball card collection.

Jackson first appeared on a baseball card as a rookie for the Kansas City Royals in 1986. That year, Topps captured Jackson on card #91 of their flagship set. Still lean and chiseled in his early pro baseball days, Jackson is shown smiling in a Royals uniform from his rookie season where he batted .236 with 5 home runs and 21 RBI in 87 games. This basic rookie card of Jackson’s established one of the first glimpses of his baseball talents to be frozen in cardboard.

In 1987, Topps upped the intrigue on Bo Jackson with card #135 which featured a close-up action shot of Jackson swinging the bat. By this point, Jackson was starting to generate buzz in baseball circles for his incredible speed and power potential. His 1987 season saw modest improvements with a .266 average along with 11 home runs and 47 RBI in 103 games. It was clear Jackson was still developing and his potential was tantalizing to prospect hounds. This card from his sophomore season preserves the early hype starting to build around Jackson as a two-sport star.

Jackson’s breakout season came in 1989 when he batted .256 with 16 home runs and 47 RBI in only 69 games while also missing time playing football for the LA Raiders. That season, Topps captured the essence of Bo Knows with card #132 which depicted Jackson in an intense batting stance with the caption “Bo Knows Bashing.” This card commemorated Jackson taking his game to an elite level and establishing himself as a true five-tool threat. He was named to the All-Star team that year and it seemed his future in baseball was unlimited.

Tragically, Jackson’s promising baseball career was cut short after the 1989 season when he suffered a serious hip injury in a playoff game while playing for the Raiders. He attempted a comeback in 1990 but was never the same player. That season, Topps acknowledged Jackson’s injury on card #174 which showed him in street clothes with crutches and a serious expression. It was a somber reminder of the “what if” surrounding Jackson’s potential that was never fully realized due to the fluke injury at the height of his dual-sport powers.

After retiring from baseball and football, Jackson was included in several retrospective and alumni sets over the following decades. In 2001, he appeared on card #88 in the Topps Americana Set commemorating the players of the 1980s and 1990s. In 2009, he made card #101 in the Topps Allen & Ginter set which often features unique parallels between sports and entertainment. Most recently in 2019, Jackson had card #280 in the Topps Allen & Ginter X set highlighting some of the most iconic athletes across multiple sports through the years.

While his baseball card collection is relatively small, each one captures pivotal moments and changing perceptions of Bo Jackson throughout his brief but incredible run defying expectations in multiple pro leagues. From his humble rookie beginnings to his breakout dominance to the unfortunate injury finale, Jackson’s baseball cards document a truly unique chapter in sports history that still amazes to this day. Bo Jackson cards remain some of the most sought after by collectors not just for their rarity, but for what they represent about one of the supreme athletes the world never truly got to see reach his full potential on the diamond.