“The 1980 Topps baseball card set was one of the most sought after and valuable sets from the early years of the modern baseball card era. The set featured 712 total cards that showcased every Major League player as well as manager and coach cards. While there were no true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers in the set, it did include stars who were entering their primes in the early 1980s. Here’s a look at the top 10 most valuable and desirable cards from the 1980 Topps set according to pricing guides and collector demand:

#10 – Nolan Ryan (#1) – One of the most feared and dominant pitchers of all time, Nolan Ryan had established himself as a strikeout king by 1980 with over 3,000 Ks to his name. His intimidating windup and 100+ mph fastball made him box office. This card shows him in an Astros uniform, one of the teams he pitched for during his 27-year career. In gem mint condition, it sells for around $75-100.

#9 – George Brett (#166) – Brett was already a 3-time batting champion and the heart and soul of the Royals by 1980. This card captures him mid-swing, showing off his slick left-handed stroke that was a nightmare for opposing pitchers. Brett would go on to be recognized as one of the best third basemen in baseball history. Priced around $80-125 in top shape.

#8 – Mike Schmidt (#254) – Following his 1980 NL MVP and World Series win, “Schmitty” was well on his way to a Hall of Fame career and cemented as the best third baseman of his generation. This card presents him in traditional Phillies red pinstripes. Near mint examples command $90-150.

#7 – Dave Parker (#316) – “The Cobra” was in his prime during this era, coming off a 1978 NL MVP and helping lead the Pirates to a World Series title. His smooth, graceful left-handed swing yielded prolific power and production. This card showcases his athletic physique and skills. In pristine condition, it values at $100-175.

#6 – Reggie Jackson (#453) – “Mr. October” had already cemented postseason folklore status with his 3 HR performance in the 1977 World Series. By 1980, he was still raking for the Yankees and among the most feared sluggers in baseball. This card is highly sought after by collectors due to Jackson’s iconic status. Near mint copies sell between $125-200.

#5 – Steve Garvey (#473) – As the heart of the Dodgers for over a decade, “Mr. Clean” represented consistency and leadership on some of LA’s great 1970s-80s teams. This card is especially coveted since it was during Garvey’s peak years in Dodger blue. Near mint condition fetches $150-250 depending on market.

#4 – Willie Stargell (#508) – “Pops” was on the back end of his Hall of Fame career but still a clubhouse leader on the “We Are Family” 1979 World Champion Pirates. This card commemorates Stargell’s enduring career and intimidating bat. Near mint versions change hands for $200-300 among dedicated collectors.

#3 – Ozzie Smith (#676) – While just a rookie in 1980 with the Padres, “The Wizard” was already displaying the magical defense that would make him a 13-time Gold Glover. This serves as one of the key early Ozzie Smith rookie cards. Near mint grades command $250-400.

#2 – Fernando Valenzuela (#653) – “Fernandomania” took Los Angeles by storm in 1981, but this 1980 card hints at what was to come for the 21-year old phenom lefty. His rookie season dominance made him an international celebrity. High grade versions are valued from $350-600.

#1 – Mike Schmidt (#616) – Update card – Following his epic 1980 season and being named NL MVP, Topps rushed out this update card featuring Schmidt holding his MVP trophy. Only 50 are believed to exist in pristine condition. It’s among the rarest cards in the set and can sell for upwards of $1,000 in gem mint 10 grade.

While it lacked true star rookie cards, the 1980 Topps set commemorated some of the biggest name players who were at the peaks of their careers during baseball’s late 1970s-early 1980s renaissance. Cards of superstars like Ryan, Brett, Schmidt, Parker, Jackson and others continue to be highly desired by collectors decades later.”