The 1990 Donruss set is considered one of the classic and iconic baseball card releases of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While it may not contain the very highest priced rookie cards or singles, there are several cards from the 1990 Donruss set that are quite valuable and attractive to serious collectors and investors. Here is a more in-depth look at some of the most valuable 1990 Donruss cards:
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (1986 Topps) – Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card from Donruss in 1990 is one of the most coveted and valuable modern rookie cards in the hobby. Griffey was already establishing himself as a superstar by 1990 and his rookie card captured the attention of the collecting world. PSA 10 gem mint examples of his 1990 Donruss rookie card in recent years have sold for upwards of $2,000. Even low-grade copies in PSA 8 Fair condition can sell for $300-400. The Griffey rookie is truly the crown jewel of the 1990 Donruss set and holds immense long term value and desirability.
Nolan Ryan – Nolan Ryan cards from the late stages of his incredible career are quite collectible and his 1990 Donruss card is no exception. Often regarded as the greatest power pitcher of all-time, Ryan’s expressive and intimidating on-field presence translated perfectly to his baseball cards. PSA 10 examples of his 1990 Donruss card have reached over $500 in sales. Low-population PSA 9 Near Mint copies can sell for $200-300 still making it among the most valuable base cards from the set.
Ryne Sandberg – Sandberg was a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate during his playing days with the Chicago Cubs. His 1990 Donruss card captures him during what was arguably his peak seasons from 1987-1990. PSA 10 mint copies have recently sold in the $350 range. PSA 9 NM examples hold value around $150-250 still. The Sandberg retains strong demand as one of the premier second baseman of his generation.
Ozzie Smith – Considered the greatest defensive shortstop of all-time, Ozzie Smith’s 1990 Donruss is an iconic card for his signature wizardry in the field. High grades examples in PSA 10 have reached up to $250. Even PSA 9 NM condition copies can approach $100 valuation given Smith’s Hall of Fame caliber career and the eye-catching action photo on this particular issue.
Barry Bonds – Arguably the greatest all-around player of the 1990s, Bonds’ 1990 Donruss was an early indication of his ascent among the game’s elite. PSA 10 grades have sold for over $150 in recent times with most PSA 9s in the $75-100 range still. The collector demand for Bonds remains very strong even after his controversial post-playing career.
Frank Thomas – “The Big Hurt” was just breaking in with the Chicago White Sox in 1990 but was already showing superstar caliber performance. This Donruss issue serves as an important pre-rookie card for Thomas. High grades have reached $100+ recently with most PSA 9s holding steady between $60-80. Thomas would go on to establish himself as one of the best right-handed hitters of all-time making this an historic early card.
Ken Caminiti – Caminiti’s 1990 Donruss served as his true rookie card since his brief call-up in 1989 did not qualify. He would not rise to stardom until a few years later but this remains an important early issue for the 1996 NL MVP. PSA 10s have sold for $125+ with most PSA 9s in the $50-75 range still. His career arc and award winning ’96 season add unique value and appeal.
Cal Ripken Jr. – Often overlooked among Ripken’s massive catalog of cards is his 1990 Donruss issue. This was from Ripken’s age 29 season where was already a perennial All-Star and Gold Glover. PSA 10 examples have reached up to $125 with most Mint 9s holding $50-75 value still. Ripken is a fan favorite and Iron Man accomplishments create lasting collector demand.
Sandy Koufax – Koufax’s legendary career in the 1950/60s is captured through vintage and high-end commemorative issues but his 1990 Donruss as a Brooklyn Dodger remains popular. Scarce PSA 10s have sold over $125 with most top-graded 9s reaching $75-100 range valuations on the secondary market. The Hall of Fame lefty remains among the most storied players and this later issue performs very well.
While player performance and career arcs effect longer term collector valuations, the 1990 Donruss set itself maintains a classic appeal among both vintage enthusiasts as well as modern investors. Through star rookies, active legends and retired greats – this release consistently produces significant rarities and gems across the entire checklist when found in high state of preservation. As one of the seminal baseball card sets of the late 20th century, examples like the Griffey, Ripken, Ryan, Sandberg and others secure the 1990 Donruss among the most Fundamentally sound investments in the greater hobby.
