The 1987 Topps baseball card set was one of the most iconic releases of the late 1980s. While not as valuable as some predecessor sets today, the ’87 Topps cards featured many future Hall of Famers and star players from that era. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable cards and storylines from the 1987 Topps baseball card series.
Perhaps the most well-known card from the 1987 set is the Ryan Sandberg rookie card (#486). As one of the premiere second basemen of his generation, Sandberg became a star for the Chicago Cubs throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. His rookie card from the ‘87 Topps set remains a desirable piece for Cubs and Sandberg collectors alike. While it doesn’t command four-figure prices like some other elite rookies, condition-graded Sandberg rookie cards can still sell for several hundred dollars.
Another rookie card that became extremely valuable with time was that of catcher Benito Santiago (#402). Santiago enjoyed a fine career that saw him play until 2007, winning a World Series with the Florida Marlins in 1997. His rookie card was somewhat lost amongst the others in the 1987 Topps set during the junk wax era. That changed when the 1990s nostalgia wave took hold. Now, a PSA 10 Santiago rookie in pristine condition can sell for well over $1,000.
The 1987 Topps set is also renowned for featuring elite players who were entering or in the midst of Hall of Fame careers. For example, the cards of Wade Boggs (#13), Roger Clemens (#188), and Kirby Puckett (#457) are always in high demand from collectors. All three were superstars in the late 1980s and regarded as icons of the era. Their ‘87 Topps cards remain widely collected and can carry valuations of $50-200+ in high grade.
Two other stars with evergreen 1987 Topps cards include Ozzie Smith (#235) and Tim Raines (#538). As one of the greatest defensive shortstops ever and a member of the 30-30 club, respectively, Smith and Raines are fan favorites who had legendary careers. Raines’ speedy flair made him a perfect player for the 1980s, while Smith brought wizardry at shortstop that is still spoken of today. Both of their ’87 issues remain key pieces for completionists and specialists.
Aside from future greats, the 1987 Topps set also featured numerous active stars at the time like Don Mattingly (#213), Kevin Mitchell (#479), and Mark McGwire (#496). Mattingly and McGwire in particular were on the rise as elite sluggers for the Yankees and A’s. Mitchell would win the National League MVP that year. All 3 players produced memorable seasons and had iconic cards in the 1987 checklist that collectors seek out to this day.
Perhaps the most visually striking card from the 1987 Topps set belonged to Nolan Ryan (#491). As one of the most intimidating pitchers who ever lived, “The Ryan Express” stares down from the card with his intense, steely-eyed gaze. By 1987, Ryan was already a living legend with a record seven no-hitters to his name. His iconic Topps card from that year remains a standout in the set and for collectors of the Texas Rangers’ all-time great.
While not as valuable in today’s market as some more premium sets, the 1987 Topps baseball card series really captured stars of that era who made lasting impacts. Cards like the rookies of Sandberg, Santiago and McGwire as well as the elite veterans Boggs, Puckett, Clemens and more create a set that any collector can appreciate. Condition-graded gems as well as raw copies of these players continue to hold meaning for those who enjoyed 80s baseball. The 1987 Topps release immortalized that exciting time in card form.
