The 1985 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues of all time. While powerhouse rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin and Barry Bonds weren’t included, the 1985 set featured several legendary players who were entering the primes of their careers. The designs and photography of the ’85 Topps cards also represented a transitionary period for the company. With vibrant colors and new photograph styles, the set helped usher in a modern baseball card era. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most noteworthy 1985 Topps cards that still holds value with collectors today.

Ryne Sandberg – Arguably the most coveted card from the 1985 set is Ryne Sandberg’s. As a two-time MVP winner and 10-time All-Star for the Chicago Cubs, Sandberg was emerging as a superstar at the time. His iconic mid-swing card shows “Ryno” unleashing at the plate for the Cubs. In gem mint condition, a Sandberg ’85 Topps regular issue can sell for over $1,000. His update and high series cards from that year also carry high prices.

Ozzie Smith – No other player was more synonymous with defense in the 1980s than “The Wizard” Ozzie Smith. His leaping catch 1985 Topps card captures his elite skill in the field and remains one of the set’s most recognizable visuals. Like Sandberg, a pristine Smith can fetch over $1,000. His wizardry was captivating fans and this issue helps depict why he was already a legend at shortstop.

Wade Boggs – As one of baseball’s premier hitters of the decade, Wade Boggs’ consistency made him a surefire Hall of Famer. His stoic 1985 card shows him squaring to bunt, highlighting his precision at the plate. A near mint Boggs can sell for around $500 given his batting prowess and the Red Sox franchise player status he had achieved by this point.

Kirby Puckett – While still early in his career in 1985, Kirby Puckett was already becoming a fan favorite in Minnesota due to his all-out playing style. His mid-run on the basepaths card foreshadows the thrilling performances that would make him a six-time All-Star and later World Series champion. Mint Puckett rookies can sell in the $400 range.

Don Mattingly – As the freshly crowned 1984 batting champion, Don Mattingly’s star was rapidly rising. His smooth left-handed swing captured on his ’85 issue epitomized his elite talents. Near mint Mattingly’s have sold for over $300 based on his excellence and Yankee pedigree.

Roger Clemens – Few pitchers dominated the1980s mound as Roger Clemens did. His stiff windup 1985 card is a reminder of his blazing fastball that was causing havoc for batters from a young age. Given Clemens’ legendary status, even well-centered examples can sell for $150-$200.

Goose Gossage – Archetype of the late-inning reliever, “Goose” Gossage was still piling up saves in 1985. His intimidating glare down from the mound portrays his closer mentality. Moderately played Gossage cards change hands around the $100 range.

Dennis Eckersley – Like Gossage, Eckersley made his living closing out ballgames during this era. His smooth delivery is captured on his ’85 issue. Given Eck’s Hall of Fame career arc, near mint copies can reach $75.

Bob Gibson – Though past his playing days in 1985, the Cards legend’s card serves as a historic relic of one of history’s most intimidating aces. Even well-used Gibson’s hold intrinsic value at $50-75 due to what he represented on the mound in his prime.

Cal Ripken Jr. – While only 3 years into his epic streak, Ripken’s surehandedness at short here was a sign of things to come. Lightly played ‘85 Ripkens can sell for close to $50 based on his eventualHall of Fame enshrinement and Iron Man status.

So whether you’re looking for the superstars of the day like Sandberg or hoping to find a future Hall of Famer’s rookie, the 1985 Topps set provided a snapshot of baseball at a key transition point. For collectors, these cards remain a link to that era that also hold lasting value in today’s thriving market. The vintage designs and photography combined with the all-time talents featured make the 1985 Topps set one of the most beloved issues in the hobby’s history.