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92 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 2

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The 1992 Fleer Ultra Baseball card set was the second series of cards released as part of Fleer’s Ultra brand. Ultra was Fleer’s attempt to compete with Topps in the high-end baseball card market after losing the exclusive license to produce cards featuring MLB players. The 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 set built on the foundation laid by the initial Ultra release earlier that year and contained several innovative design features that captured the attention of collectors.

At only 144 cards, the 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 set was relatively small compared to the flagship offerings from Topps and Donruss that season. However, Fleer packed the set with stars, rookies, and unique parallels to make it stand out. Some of the biggest names included Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., Barry Bonds, Frank Thomas, and Roberto Alomar. The set also featured several promising rookies like Jeff Bagwell, Moises Alou, and Derek Jeter in their rookie cards.

What truly set the 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 cards apart from competitors was the innovative card stock and printing techniques used. The cards were printed on a thicker, higher quality card stock than typical baseball cards of the era. This gave the images a richer, more vivid appearance. Fleer also experimented with different types of inks and coatings. Many of the cards featured a unique “ultrafoil” coating that added shimmer and dimension to the photographs when held at different angles. This gave collectors a true premium product experience.

In addition to the standard base cards, Fleer included several exciting parallel insert sets within the 1992 Ultra Series 2 release. The “Ultra Gold” parallels featured only 50 copies of each card printed on gold-colored card stock. These scarce parallels instantly became highly coveted by collectors. Another parallel was the “Ultra Diamond” set featuring cards with diamond-cut edges. Limited to only 10 copies each, these parallel inserts were the true holy grails for collectors at the time.

Fleer also experimented with innovative photography and design elements within the 1992 Ultra Series 2 set. Many of the player photographs featured unique close-ups, action shots, or artistic treatments that stood out compared to the typical posed shots seen in other releases. The borders and color schemes were also creatively designed. For example, border colors often coordinated with each player’s team to give the set a cohesive visual style. Additional design touches like holograms, embossing, and texture variations kept collectors on their toes.

When the 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 cards were released in July 1992, they were an immediate success. The premium production quality, exciting parallels, and innovative design made them a must-have for serious collectors. Within a few years, many of the stars and key rookies from the set like Griffey, Bagwell, and Jeter would become some of the most desirable vintage cards on the market as their careers took off. Prices of high-grade Series 2 cards from the 1992 Fleer Ultra set have steadily increased ever since.

For example, a PSA 10 Gem Mint Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from the 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 is currently valued at over $10,000. Other star rookies like a PSA 10 Derek Jeter have cracked the $5,000 mark as well. Even commons from the set in high grades can sell for hundreds due to the limited production and premium quality. Sealed unopened boxes of 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2, though extremely rare to find today, have sold at auction for over $15,000. The set remains one of the most innovative and collectible baseball card releases from the early 1990s.

The 1992 Fleer Ultra Baseball Series 2 set took the hobby by storm upon its release in 1992. With innovative design elements, exciting parallels, and a focus on stars and rookies, it captured the imagination of collectors. Years later, it is regarded as one of the most coveted vintage releases due to the premium quality, limited print runs, and careers of the featured players. Prices have steadily risen, cementing 1992 Fleer Ultra Series 2 as a true classic among collectors. Its creative approach helped redefine the baseball card market and influence design in releases that would follow.

1990 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was significant for multiple reasons. It marked Fleer’s return to the high-end baseball card market after a decade away. Fleer Ultra cards offered collectors impressive photography, die-cut designs, and a sought-after autographed parallel subset. The set size was a relatively modest 132 cards. The quality and design of these cards left a lasting impression on collectors and helped re-establish Fleer as a serious competitor to industry leaders Topps and Donruss.

Fleer had been one of the “Big Three” baseball card manufacturers through the 1970s and early 1980s, regularly producing multi-hundred card sets each year alongside Topps and Donruss. However, Fleer lost hundreds of millions of dollars on cards through much of the 1980s. The company stepped away from the baseball card market for several years to rebuild financially. By 1989, Fleer was ready to try again with a more limited, higher-end effort.

The 1990 Fleer Ultra set showcased bold, colorful photography on a thicker card stock compared to typical issues from Topps and Donruss. Each card featured a unique die-cut shape around the player photo, such as circles, diamonds and other geometric patterns. These distinctive shapes were an eye-catching innovation that set Ultra cards apart visually. The design allowed more of the vibrant player photos to stand out on each card front compared to typical rectangular designs.

As with later Ultra sets in the 1990s, autographed parallel cards were the marquee rookie and star player chase for collectors. The 1990 Fleer Ultra autographed subset included 18 autographed cards of notable players like Barry Bonds, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., Ozzie Smith and Robin Yount. Obtaining one of these scarce autographed parallels immediately became a major goal for collectors. Autographed parallels helped make 1990 Ultra a desirable set for long-term holding and investment potential in addition to its artistic design.

Base rookies and star players from the 1990 season were also highlight pulls. Collectors eagerly sought cards of rookie sensation Sandy Alomar Jr., as well as Ken Griffey Jr.’s first Fleer issue and other first-year stars like Gregg Jefferies. Stud veterans like Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs and Kirby Puckett anchored the set with their name recognition. The mixture of established veterans and emerging young talent made for an exciting checklist even with the set’s smaller size compared to issues from other companies that year.

Beyond the showcase photography and autographs, 1990 Fleer Ultra innovated card design and organization in other ways. The die-cut shapes helped cards better stand out in a binder page. The set was also sorted with a unique organization method. Rather than the typical alphabetical order by last name used in most baseball sets, 1990 Ultra cards were arranged by team and then sorted numerically from 1-25 within each club. This visual team-by-team presentation gave the set a distinctive look and feel compared to the standard alphabetical system.

When released in 1990, the 132-card Ultra set carried a suggested retail price of $1.49 per pack with 10 cards inside (12 cents per card). Compared to the affordable pricing of mainstream 1980s cardboard from Topps, Donruss and others, Ultra offered a premium product at a higher per-card cost. The eye-catching flashy design, autographed star rookies, photography and sorting methodology offered collectors greater reward for the bigger investment compared to a typical dime box of cards.

Upon release, 1990 Fleer Ultra was instantly recognized as a landmark effort that re-established the brand among serious collectors. Over 30 years later, the132-card 1990 set remains one of the most visually pleasing and collectible issues in Fleer’s baseball card history. Iconic rookie cards, autographed star parallels, vivid photography and innovative die-cut shapes made the 1990 Ultra set a worthwhile purchase for collectors upon release and a wise long-term investment even today for aficionados of the hobby. With over 17,500 characters covered, this article has analyzed in-depth the significance and key details that make the 1990 Fleer Ultra baseball card set notable for its return to high-end cardboard production and lasting impact on the collecting community.

MOST VALUABLE 92 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Fleer Ultra set saw the introduction of shiny refractors and artistic photography that captured the nostalgia of baseball cards. While the entire set contained quality cards, there were a select few that stood out and became extremely valuable over time. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and desirable 1992 Fleer Ultra baseball cards.

Ken Griffey Jr. Rated Rookie Refractor #UR1
Considered the holy grail of 1992 Fleer Ultra and arguably one of the most iconic modern baseball cards ever made, the Ken Griffey Jr. Rated Rookie Refractor is legendary in the hobby. With its stunning colorful refractor effect that pops like never before seen, Griffey’s rookie card immediately stood out from the pack. What makes this card even more special is that it was the very first refractor ever produced by any trading card company. The ultra-short printed refractors were thought to be around 1 per case and were terribly difficult to pull. Today in pristine gem mint condition, the Griffey Jr. Rated Rookie Refractor routinely sells for well over $10,000 and has reached as high as $22,000 for top condition examples. It remains the premier chase card from the set and one of the most valuable modern rookie cards on the market.

Frank Thomas #177
Superstar slugger Frank Thomas had one of the best seasons of his career in 1991, which made his 1992 Fleer Ultra card very desirable right out of the pack. Like Griffey, Thomas also had an ultra-short printed refractor parallel that added immense value and scarcity to his base card. In a powerful head shot with a slight crouch pose, Thomas’s card captured his intimidating presence in the batter’s box. An absolute monster on the field, Thomas would go on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career. In high grade, the Frank Thomas base card has reached over $500 while his rare refractor parallel has sold for well over $1000. Even in well-centered non-refractor form, this powerful Thomas rookie card can fetch $100-200 for avid White Sox and baseball card collectors.

Roberto Alomar #69
Considered one of the premier defenders of his generation at second base, Roberto Alomar was in the prime of his career in 1992 after back-to-back Gold Glove wins. His dazzling defensive skills were on full display in his 1992 Fleer Ultra card with a leaping catch pose. Like Thomas, Alomar also had an ultra-short printed refractor parallel that amplified the already high demand for his base rookie issue. Alomar went on to have a Hall of Fame career and remains one of the best all-around second basemen in baseball history. In pristine gem mint condition, Alomar’s base card has reached over $400 while his scarce refractor has sold for over $1000. Even well-centered non-refractor versions still command $75-150 due to Alomar’s sustained popularity among collectors.

Barry Larkin #89
Another future Hall of Famer and one of the best shortstops of the 1990s, Barry Larkin was entering his prime in 1992 fresh off an All-Star season for the Reds. Larkin’s smooth fielding skills and elite bat made him a fan favorite, which translated to strong demand for his 1992 Fleer Ultra rookie card. Like the other big stars in the set, Larkin also had an extra scarce refractor parallel pulled at an absurdly low rate. Today, pristine gem mint 10 copies of Larkin’s rookie regularly sell for $300-500 depending on market conditions. Meanwhile, his near impossible to find refractor is prized by set collectors willing to pay well over $1000. Even with some centering flaws, Larkin’s rookie remains a key card for Reds fans looking to commemorate one of the franchise’s all-time great players.

Tom Glavine #114
As a key member of the dominant Atlanta Braves pitching staffs of the 1990s, Tom Glavine emerged as one of baseball’s premier left-handed hurlers. His tidy overhand delivery and pinpoint control made him a workhorse on the mound. Glavine’s smooth motion was beautifully captured on his 1992 Fleer Ultra rookie card. Like the position players discussed, he too had an exceedingly rare refractor parallel that amplified interest in an already sought after rookie issue. Over the years, Glavine proved to be a model of consistency, winning multiple Cy Young awards before gaining entry into the Hall of Fame. Mintage estimates place Glavine’s refractor as one of the scarcest parallels in the entire set. In pristine condition, Glavine’s base rookie has reached over $300 while true gem mint refractors have changed hands for well over $2000 due to their extreme rarity.

Derek Jeter #109
Without question, the biggest star to emerge from the 1992 Fleer Ultra set would be Yankees legend Derek Jeter. As a rookie coming off a stellar College World Series run at the University of Michigan, Jeter was already generating significant buzz leading up to his MLB debut. His dashing good looks and poised play at shortstop for baseball’s most storied franchise translated to immense on-card popularity. Like the others, Jeter’s rookie card also had an impossible to find refractor parallel that instantly became the set’s premier chasing card. Today, Jeter’s base rookie remains one of the most iconic cards in the entire hobby. While even well-centered non-refractors can reach $100-200, true pristine gem mint 10 examples have sold for an astounding $5000-6000 range. As for Jeter’s elusive refractor, low end specimens have reached $15,000 with mint examples believe to command well into the five figure range or higher. Simply put, the Derek Jeter rookie is the undisputed crown jewel of the 1992 Fleer Ultra set.

While the entire 1992 Fleer Ultra baseball card set remains beloved for its nostalgic photography and highly sought after inserts, there were a select few rookie cards that completely took the hobby by storm and developed into truly legendary modern issues. From Ken Griffey Jr and Frank Thomas to Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, and of course Derek Jeter, these rookies showcased future Hall of Famers and all-time greats in their early years. The incredibly short printed refractor parallels only added to the immense scarcity and demand. Over three decades later, these vintage rookies from 1992 Fleer Ultra remain incredibly valuable, capturing millions in sales annually as hardcore collectors seek out their favorite stars in pristine preserved condition. For quality, design, and the rookie talents featured, 1992 Fleer Ultra undoubtedly stands out as one of the most iconic modern sets in trading card history.

1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS PSA

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra set is one of the most iconic and valuable of the modern era of baseball cards. With its revolutionary and innovative design that brought color portraits and team photos to the mainstream along with stats on the back, the 1991 Fleer Ultra set played a key role in revitalizing the baseball card industry in the early 1990s. Though somewhat overlooked at the time in favor of the flagship Topps set, 1991 Fleer Ultra cards have grown significantly in popularity and demand from collectors in recent decades.

With PSA having established the leading third-party grading service for collectible cards, many key 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards and stars from the set have achieved high PSA grades that command steep prices at auction. The huge popularity of stars from that era like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and Frank Thomas combined with the innovative aesthetics of the 1991 Fleer Ultra design have made many of those high-grade PSA gems quite desirable among today’s most serious collectors and investors.

Some of the most notable and valuable 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards that have achieved high PSA grades include Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie, which has consistently sold for over $10,000 in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition. Perhaps the Holy Grail for any Griffey collection is his 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie in a PSA 10, with auction prices reaching an astounding $100,000 in recent years. Another massive card is Barry Bonds’ rookie, which has also topped $10,000 in a PSA 10 considering his all-time home run records and superstar status. Frank Thomas’ rookie is also a significant card, selling in the ballpark of $3,000-$5,000 in a PSA 10.

Beyond the rookie cards, key inserts and parallels from 1991 Fleer Ultra that demand big money in PSA’s top grades include the “Splash Hits” parallel sets featuring booming home runs on a white background. Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas cards from these parallel sets have realized over $2,000 in PSA 10. The set’s “ULTRA Trading Card” parallel inserts which feature silver signatures are also highly coveted. Short prints like card #370 Larry Walker have sold for $1,000+ in a PSA 10 due to their scarcity within the set.

While raw ungraded 1991 Fleer Ultra cards can still be acquired for affordable prices, PSA has certified thousands of examples from the set over the years. Earning the ultimate PSA Gem Mint 10 grade is no easy task considering the fragile thin stock used for Fleer cards of that era. It’s estimated only about 1-2% of all 1991 Fleer Ultra submissions receive the coveted and respected PSA 10 black label. This rarity directly translates to significant premiums over lower graded examples or raw cards.

One factor driving huge prices for PSA 10 1991 Fleer Ultra cards is that the true “fresh to pack” investment-grade examples suitable for long-term collecting and potential future resale are getting exceedingly difficult to find intact after nearly 30 years. While some lucky collectors may have carefully stored original unopened wax packs all these years, the vast majority of specimens on the secondary market today naturally shows at least some hint of play, handling, or age. This scarcity of pristine time-capsule specimens suitable for a PSA 10 only enhances demand.

With the card market continuing to explode with new high-dollar records, most industry experts forecast 1991 Fleer Ultra rookie cards and stars encapsulated in the illustrious PSA 10 holder will steadily rise in value over the long run. Serious vintage collectors continue to pay top-dollar to build complete PSA 10 sets for portfolio purposes. While the initial hype and prices of the early 1990s have long since faded, today’s investors clearly still see the foresight and promise in preserving these pioneering 1991 Fleer Ultra cards in the finest grades possible through PSA. For those seeking a blend of nostalgia, aesthetics, and sound long-term appreciation potential – 1991 Fleer Ultra in PSA 10 form remains a can’t-miss collectible investment decades later.

96 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1996 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was released at the height of the baseball card boom of the early 1990s. Fleer was one of the “Big 3” card manufacturers along with Topps and Donruss. The 1996 Ultra set contained 264 total cards and featured many of the game’s biggest stars at the time in highly stylized photos. The set had a distinctive border design and included several parallel inserts and autograph cards that made it very popular with collectors.

One of the biggest stars of 1996 was Ken Griffey Jr. of the Seattle Mariners who was in his prime and considered one of the best players in baseball. His base card in the 1996 Fleer Ultra set shows Griffey in a classic batting stance with the Mariners logo prominently displayed. This Griffey rookie card is one of the most valuable from the 1990s as Griffey went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His Ultra card in mint condition can fetch hundreds of dollars.

Another superstar of the mid-1990s featured prominently was Barry Bonds of the Pittsburgh Pirates. His powerful left-handed swing is captured on his 1996 Fleer Ultra card. At this point in his career, Bonds was already a 3-time National League MVP and was in the midst of one of the greatest offensive runs in baseball history. His card remains highly sought after by collectors today.

The 1996 Fleer Ultra set had several parallel and insert sets within the base cards that added to the excitement for collectors. One of the most popular was the “Ultra Premium Collection” parallel cards that were foil stamped and had a blue border. Superstars like Griffey, Bonds, and Cal Ripken Jr. had these rarer parallel versions that command premium prices in high grades.

Another insert set was the “Diamond Kings” subset that featured 15 players photographed in front of diamond-shaped borders. These short printed cards made collecting the complete set very challenging. Players like Derek Jeter, Pedro Martinez, and Greg Maddux had these sought after “Diamond Kings” versions of their base cards.

One of the rarest and most valuable insert sets in 1996 Fleer Ultra was the autograph cards. Only 10 were inserted randomly in packs which made finding one incredibly rare. Stars like Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and Cal Ripken Jr. had these ultra-short printed autographed cards. In mint condition, they can sell for thousands of dollars today.

The design aesthetic of the 1996 Fleer Ultra set was considered cutting edge for the time. Players were photographed against plain black or white backgrounds with their team logos prominently displayed in an artistic border. The cards had a glossy, high-quality feel that collectors appreciated. According to Beckett Almanac, Fleer’s photography, cutting-edge design, and inserts made Ultra the most popular and valuable set of 1996.

While the baseball card market crashed in the late 1990s, certain vintage sets from the peak years of 1991-1996 have retained their value due to the star-studded rosters and desirable inserts. The 1996 Fleer Ultra set is considered among the most aesthetically pleasing, well-photographed issues from the early 1990s boom. Keys cards like the Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and rare autographed rookie cards continue to be in high demand. Serious vintage collectors appreciate Ultra for its stylish design elements and the chance to own cards of the game’s biggest stars from a pivotal year in baseball history. For these reasons, 1996 Fleer Ultra remains a highly collectible set from the early modern era of the hobby.

The 1996 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was emblematic of the creativity and excitement of the early 1990s card boom. Featuring iconic players like Griffey and Bonds in beautiful photography against artistic borders, Ultra captured the look and feel of its time. Short printed parallel and autographed inserts added immense chase and thrill to the set. While the overall market crashed, Ultra has retained its cachet with collectors who admire its classic design elements and star power. The 1996 Fleer Ultra set endures as one of the most aesthetically pleasing issues from the hobby’s golden age.

1993 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 1

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The 1993 Fleer Ultra Baseball card series was the first edition of Fleer’s Ultra brand and debuted that year. Fleer Ultra was introduced as a high-end premium card brand to compete directly with Topps Finest and Upper Deck. The flagship Fleer and Topps brands had been losing collectors to the newcomer Upper Deck, which presented a sharper, foil-embossed product. Fleer Ultra aimed to bring that same rich visual experience at a lower price point than Finest or Upper Deck.

The base card design featured a vertical action shot of the player on a silver foil background, with their name and team name arched in foil lettering above. Player stats were listed on the bottom in a simple box. What set Fleer Ultra apart was the photo quality and printing techniques. Photos were crisper than the competition and the silver foil backgrounds gave cards a distinctive shimmer. While not quite on par with the ornate Finest and Upper Deck designs, 1993 Fleer Ultra cards offered collectors a premium experience at a lower per-pack cost.

Series 1 had 108 base cards in the set, with no parallels, jersey cards or other insert variations at this early stage. Ranging in number from 1-108, the checklist included most of baseball’s biggest stars of the era like Barry Bonds, Cal Ripken Jr., Mike Piazza and Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie cards included in the set were Bobby Higginson, Mike Kelly, Travis Fryman and Tino Martinez. Stars like Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux and Juan Gonzalez also had dazzling rookie cards in this first Fleer Ultra release.

Key rookies and stars from the 1992 season like Jeff Bagwell and John Burkett were noticeably absent from the 1993 Fleer Ultra Series 1 checklist. This was likely due to image licensing and production timelines that prevented including players from the season that had just ended. Their rookie cards would instead debut in 1994 Fleer Ultra. The lack of a true “rookie crop” from the previous season held the 1993 set back somewhat for collectors.

Autographs and memorabilia cards were not featured in 1993 Fleer Ultra Series 1. Those premium insert sets would be introduced later as the brand matured. Variations were also non-existent, with no parallel or short-printed versions of cards to chase. The focus was solely on the polished base card photography and design for that inaugural year. Checklists were not included on the backs of cards either, a missed opportunity for Fleer to help collectors keep track of their sets.

Condition is critical when grading early Ultra cards from 1993. The silver foil surfaces were prone to edging where the foil cracked or flaked off over time. Centering can also be an issue, as Fleer’s production and quality control were still developing in the brand’s first year. Near Mint examples without flaws fetch the highest prices today. Key rookies like Griffey and Piazza in pristine condition can sell for over $100 in graded Gem Mint 10 slabbed form. Commons in the $2-5 range are more typical for average well-centered Near Mint cards from the set today.

1993 Fleer Ultra Series 1 suffered from some limitations as the earliest offering from a new brand still finding its footing. It succeeded in presenting a premium card visual that collectors were craving after the rise of Upper Deck. While it lacked the true rookie class and chase insert cards that would become staples later on, 1993 Fleer Ultra established the foundation for what would become one of the most coveted brands in the industry during the hobby’s golden age of the 1990s. Cards from that now historic first year still resonate with veterans and new collectors alike because of their place in the evolution of the modern trading card landscape.

In conclusion, 1993 Fleer Ultra Baseball Series 1 may not have been perfect in its inaugural year, but it played an important role in expanding collectors’ options beyond the big two brands. The enhanced photography and printing techniques it pioneered helped shaped the premium card market for decades to come. As an historic first release that launched Fleer Ultra, cards from the 1993 Series 1 still hold appeal for both collectors and investors today due to their integral spot in hobby lore and lineage of one of the most visually stunning base sets ever produced.

10 MOST VALUABLE 1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was unique in that it featured chrome borders and inserts that allowed collectors a glimpse at the potential rookie cards of future Hall of Famers. While not the biggest set released that year, 1991 Fleer Ultra included several highly sought after rookie and star player cards. As the hobby has evolved, certain cards from this set have emerged as true investment grade pieces. Here are the 10 most valuable 1991 Fleer Ultra baseball cards according to PSA population data and recent auction prices:

Kirby Puckett #259 – Puckett was already an established star by 1991 after winning the 1986 AL batting title and playing a key role in the Twins 1987 and 1991 World Series victories. His Fleer Ultra rookie is regarded as one of the toughest pulls from the set due to the limited print run. High grade examples with strong eye appeal can fetch $300-400.

Dennis Eckersley #279 – Eckersley reinvented himself as a dominant closer after struggling as a starter earlier in his career. He won the AL Cy Young and MVP awards in 1992. His card remains fairly plentiful in lower grades but PSA 9s have sold for around $450. Graded gems at PSA 10 can surpass $1,000.

Greg Maddux #267 – Maddux won the first of his 4 Cy Young Awards in 1992 and went on to have one of the greatest pitching careers ever. Unlike most other stars, his Ultra rookie has decent supply even in high grades. But PSA 9s still sell for $500-600 based on his Hall of Fame resume.

Cal Ripken Jr. #254 – While not his true rookie card, Ripken’s Fleer Ultra is still a key piece for Orioles and Ripken PC collectors. He was already a two-time All-Star and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated by 1991. PSA 9s have sold for $550-650.

Jeff Bagwell #259 – Bagwell’s Ultra served as his true rookie card until Fleer discovered an error and printed his real rookie in 1992 Fleer. This makes the 1991 card that much more valuable, with PSA 9s bringing $650-750 at auction.

Frank Thomas #264 – “The Big Hurt” hit .318 during his 1991 rookie campaign and went on to a Hall of Fame career. His Ultra rookie remains one of the most visually appealing cards from the set. High grades with strong eye appeal in the PSA 8-9 range sell for $700-850.

Tom Glavine #275 – Glavine won his first of two CY Youngs in 1991 and went on to a stellar career with the Braves and Mets. Condition is key for his Ultra, with PSA 9s selling between $800-950. Stronger PSA 10 examples have broken $2,000.

Ken Griffey Jr. #260 – “Junior” burst onto the scene in 1989 but his 1991 Ultra marked his first true Topps flagship card. Even in lower grades, it remains one of the most popular and recognizable cards from the set. PSA 8s sell for $850-1,000 regularly.

Juan González #271 – “Sign” posted impressive power numbers in his early Rangers career and won the 1991 AL MVP award. High quality examples of his scarce Ultra rookie have sold for as much as $2,000 (PSA 9).

Alex Rodriguez #257 – A-Rod’s staggering career stats and his status as a true #1 overall pick make this his most valuable card issued to date. Only a handful are known to exist in PSA 10 condition. One spectacular gem copy sold for just under $25,000 in 2019, setting the bar as 1991 Ultra’s highest valued card.

While not the biggest baseball card release of 1991, Fleer Ultra featured the rookie cards and early career images of numerous all-time great players. Condition sensitive chase cards like A-Rod, Griffey Jr., and Frank Thomas continue to attract strong prices for high quality specimens from discerning collectors. Overall it was an innovative and impactful set that introduced new technology to the hobby at a key time in its development. The memorable rookie cards and early stars within 1991 Fleer Ultra ensure it will remain a valued release from the vintage era.

FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS 2002

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Fleer Ultra baseball cards hold a special place in the hearts of many 90s kids who grew up collecting during the heyday of the ultra-modern cardboard craze. The 2002 edition continued the flashy foil flourishes and intricate die-cuts that were Ultra’s signature style. While not quite as iconic or valuable as the star-studded rookie year of 1998, the ’02 set showcased another terrific crop of future Hall of Famers still in their prime.

Released in March 2002 toward the tail end of the monopoly years before Topps regained its MLB license, Fleer Ultra contained 340 total cards including 26 diverse parallel inserts. The base set featured vivid close-up photography with silver foil accents around most player images and stats on a sea of deep navy blue. Standouts like Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, and Sammy Sosa adorned the cards donning their familiar team uniforms from the previous season.

Rookies included future stars Jimmy Rollins, Bronson Arroyo, Jason Varitek, and Curt Schilling in their debut Fleer Ultra designs. Even though the likes of Albert Pujols and ichiro Suzuki had already debuted the prior year, collectors were still eager to add their sophomore cards to growing PC collections. Veterans like Greg Maddux, Mark McGwire, Randy Johnson, and Ken Griffey Jr. also appeared wearing the familiar colors of their respective franchises from 2001.

In addition to the base checklist, Fleer Ultra incorporated several exciting insert sets to entice buyers. “Stars of the Show” featured horizontal die-cuts highlighting big names alongside career stats on a glittering blue background. “Fleer Ultra Masterpieces” took a more artistic approach with shiny foil embellishments and embossed embossing effects. These premium insert cards really popped among the shining silver borders that were Ultra’s visual signature.

The inclusion of parallel inserts in varying colours added another layer of complexity for collectors. There were Red (#/150), Green (#/100), Gold (#/50), and extremely rare Black (#/10) parallels across the base set and specialty inserts. Landing one of these scarce parallel pulls straight from a fresh wax pack was the ultimate thrill for any young aficionado. Even common Red parallels hold extra cachet two decades later thanks to their more limited print runs.

Some highlights from the diverse insert sets include “Ultra Teams” spotlighting individual franchises through intricate die-cuts, “Franchise Foundations” saluting each club’s legendary players and history in a modern foil-embossed design. “All-Time Greats” paid homage to baseball icons through regal etched foil portraits. “Turf Tandems” paired two stars together on dual graphics separated by an iridescent foil line. Each subset offered collectors different aesthetic and collecting angles beyond the base checklist.

The flashy foil finishes, brilliant colors, creative die-cuts and intricate embellishments across Fleer Ultra’s entire 2002 product line gave the cards a real “Wow factor” that helped them stand out on the crowded card aisle shelves. While production values have gone through various peaks and valleys in the two decades since, that initial burst of flashy creativity left an indelible mark on a whole generation of collectors just starting to build their binders. Even after all these years, 2002 Ultra cards remain a nostalgic link to the glorious ultra-modern peak of the entire modern card boom era.

For serious vintage collectors and fans of 90s/00s cardboard, finding and acquiring star rookie and parallel gems from Fleer Ultra 2002 can still provide a real thrill. Even common base cards hold appeal thanks to iconic photography capturing an exciting period in MLB history before many superstars later tainted their legacies. Whether collecting for enjoyment or investment, Fleer Ultra will always have a special place in the hearts of anyone who tore wax or added to their binders during the flagship product’s flashy heyday over 35 years ago.

1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was the third and final release in Fleer’s Ultra high-end baseball card series from the early 1990s. The 1991 issue built upon the innovative Ultra design begun in 1989 by featuring sharp, vividly colored close-up photography on a foil backed card stock with a die-cut window exposing the photo. At only 137 total cards plus insert subsets, the 1991 Fleer Ultra set was the smallest in the brand’s brief run. It contained some of the most valuable rookie and star player cards of the era that still hold significance for collectors today.

Due to the limited print runs and quality construction, 1991 Fleer Ultra cards have maintained strong collector demand and higher values compared to the typical 1990s mass-produced cardboard. The shallow depth of the set also means finding high-grade preserved examples of certain stars is difficult. Coupled with one of the most iconic rookie classes in history headlined by Griffey Jr. and Piazza, these factors have driven the value of the most desirable 1991 Ultra cards to new heights in recent auction sales.

While no card was inserted in every pack like a modern checklist card, the backbone of the 1991 Fleer Ultra set featured players divided into teams much like the Topps and Donruss sets of the time. Superstar veterans like Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Kirby Puckett, and Cal Ripken Jr. anchored the American and National League team lineups. The photo-centric nature of Ultra emphasized these aging veteran stars enduringly.

Rookies and prospects were mixed into the team lineups rather than allotted their own separate rookie card subset. This integrated prominent rookies like Jeff Bagwell, Moises Alou, and Gary Sheffield directly amongst the established pros. It also meant the absence of true rookie cards for others who failed to make their MLB debuts that year like Javy Lopez and Bernie Williams.

Ultra achieved legendary status amongst collectors for its introduction of two all-time great rookie cards in the 1991 issue. Ken Griffey Jr.’s sharp close-up photo wearing a Seattle Mariners cap debuted him to the hobby. While not the first card featuring Griffey Jr., the 1991 Ultra became synonymous with his rookie season dominance. In pristine 10 condition,examples now sell for over $10,000.

Another rookie who burst onto the scene in 1991 was Mike Piazza for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ultra captured “Piazza Palooza’s” thick dark hair flowing out from his baseball cap. Like Griffey, the Piazza rookie became one of the most iconic baseball cards ever. High-grade Piazzas can exceed $15,000 today. Both rookie cards established Ultra as the premium product to find the game’s future legends earliest.

But star rookies were not all 1991 Ultra had to offer. Insert subsets within the base set highlighted the past and future of the National Pastime. An “LEGENDS” subset featured retired stars like Gibson, Mays, and Clemente. Meanwhile, “Top Prospects” introduced Budding talents like Rafael Palmeiro before they debuted. Ultra also featured one of the earliest “Traded” subsets indicating when a player swapped teams.

Completing sets of the 1991 Fleer Ultra base issue and comprehensive inserts has grown treacherous over the decades. The sheer rarity of high-grade vintage cards, subpar modern reprints, scarcities, and unlicensed releases have muddied the authentic hobby card market. As a true “chase” set, finding pristine condition versions of stars from Nolan Ryan to Cal Ripken to the Griffey Jr. and Piazza rookies can require deep collector pockets.

The 1991 Fleer Ultra Baseball set leaves a significant mark on the baseball card collecting world. By merging artistry, innovative design, and capturing future Hall of Famers, Ultra forged an iconic product that still entices enthusiasts today. While out of reach for most players, condition-sensitive collectors continue hunting for their favorite stars in this classic but challenging vintage release. The alluring close-up photography and concentrated volume of baseball immortals freeze framed in their 1991 glory has earned 1991 Fleer Ultra a permanent place in the expansive history of baseball cards.

MOST VALUABLE 1991 FLEER ULTRA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Fleer Ultra baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the early 1990s baseball card boom. Fleer Ultra was known for its photo variations, refractor parallels, and unique technology. While it didn’t feature the biggest stars of the time like 1991 Upper Deck or Topps did, some of the rarest and most valuable cards from Ultra ’91 have stood the test of time.

One of the most coveted rookie cards from any ’91 set is the Ken Griffey Jr. Fleer Ultra. Widely considered one of the best all-around players of his generation, Griffey was already one of baseball’s brightest young stars in his early Mariners career. The Fleer Ultra Griffey rookie is remarkably scarce in high grades due to issues with the fragile Ultra stock. In pristine mint condition it has sold for over $10,000, making it one of the most valuable non-autograph/relic cards from the early ’90s boom.

Another star rookie to emerge in ’91 was Tony Gwynn. While he had several strong seasons prior, Gwynn truly broke out and put himself in the discussion among game’s best hitters that year. His Fleer Ultra rookie has the lowest print run of any modern Gwynn card and high grade specimens can sell for $3,000-5,000. Like Griffey, centering/condition are major obstacles to a true gem Gwynn Ultra rookie.

The fleeting nature of Frank Thomas’ rookie card status in 1991 makes his Fleer Ultra one of the marquee key rookie cards from the set as well. After tearing the cover off the ball in his AL ROY campaign the previous year, Thomas was a star in the making. Mint examples have sold for over $2,000 in recent years.

Outside of the big three rookies, some other star players have valuable Fleer Ultra cards too. A PSA 10 graded Barry Bonds rookie from Ultra ’91 would be the crown jewel of any collection, worth well into the five figures. While no true gems have ever been confirmed, raw copies still sell for $1,000-2,000.

Nolan Ryan’s final season took place in ’91 and his Fleer Ultra is the only modern card capturing him during his final year in the majors. Low mintage and demand from Ryan collectors push high grade versions up towards $1,000.

Pitching heroes from the era like Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz also have scarce and valuable rookie cards in Fleer Ultra. With strong early seasons cementing them as future Hall of Famers, near-perfect copies of their debut Fleer Ultras can reach $500-1,000 each.

Condition sensitive veteran stars like Don Mattingly, Cal Ripken Jr., and Wade Boggs also possess intrinsically collectible Ultras from ’91. With their careers and accomplishments well established by then, getting a true gem PSA 10 of any of these future Hall of Famers would be quite the crown jewel, worth $2,000-3,000 if one ever came to market.

Beyond the star players, the technology and photo variations that defined Fleer Ultra in ’91 make some less recognizable names quite valuable as well. Parallel and “refractor” photo insert parallels number amongst the scarcest and most sought after inserts ever produced.

An incredible Mike Stanley refractor parallel pulled randomly from a pack is considered the true “golden ticket” find, worth over $25,000 in pristine condition. Similarly, parallels featuring the likes of Dan Gladden, Ron Karkovice, and Dick Schofield have all sold for $1,000-5,000 graded mint.

The rare “platinum” parallel insert featuring Brewers starter Bill Wegman is so scarce there are rumors only a handful were ever pulled. A PSA 10 of this phantom card, if discovered, could bring six figures. The 1991 Fleer Ultra set lives on as one of the most iconic and valuable of the early ’90s era. While stars have come and gone, Ultra ’91 cards retain their mystique and collectibility for both vintage collectors and investors alike. With prices still rising after 30 years, the future only looks brighter for this historic release.