TOP 25 Most Valuable 1989 Topps Baseball Cards
The 1989 Topps Baseball card set is a treasure trove for collectors. This set has several rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and stars who made their mark in baseball history. If you’re a collector or just curious about the value of these cards, this guide will walk you through the top 25 most Valuable 1989 Topps Baseball Cards, giving you detailed insights on their prices, overview, grades, and where you can buy them.
1. Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card (#41)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $1,500
Overview
Ken Griffey Jr.’s rookie card is the crown jewel of the 1989 Topps series. Griffey, known as “The Kid,” had an illustrious career with 13 All-Star appearances, 10 Gold Gloves, and 630 home runs. His rookie card is highly sought after, especially in mint condition.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Can reach up to $1,500
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $700
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $300
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular auctions and Buy It Now listings.
- Heritage Auctions: Known for high-quality collectibles.
- PWCC Marketplace: Specialized in sports cards.
2. Craig Biggio Rookie Card (#48)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $300
Overview
Craig Biggio, a Hall of Famer and a key player for the Houston Astros had an exceptional career, with over 3,000 hits. His rookie card is a valuable piece of the 1989 Topps collection.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued around $300
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $150
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $80
Where to Buy
- COMC (Check Out My Cards): Offers various grades.
- eBay: Auctions and direct purchases.
- Beckett Marketplace: Wide selection of cards.
3. John Smoltz Rookie Card (#382)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $250
Overview
John Smoltz is known for his versatility as both a starter and a closer. His rookie card from the 1989 Topps set is a must-have for collectors, especially those who value pitchers.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Can fetch up to $250
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $120
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $60
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- Sportlots: Offers a range of card grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: High-quality graded cards.
4. Randy Johnson Rookie Card (#647)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $200
Overview
Randy Johnson, known as “The Big Unit,” is one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history. His rookie card is highly collectible, especially among fans of pitchers.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $200
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $100
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $50
Where to Buy
- eBay: Wide selection of graded cards.
- Heritage Auctions: For premium cards.
- COMC: Various conditions available.
5. Gary Sheffield Rookie Card (#343)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $180
Overview
Gary Sheffield, known for his powerful bat, had an impressive career with over 500 home runs. His rookie card is a significant part of the 1989 Topps set.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Can reach $180
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $90
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $45
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular listings.
- PWCC Marketplace: Graded cards available.
- Sportlots: Affordable options.
6. Frank Thomas Rookie Card (#414)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $150
Overview
Frank Thomas, nicknamed “The Big Hurt,” was a fearsome hitter. His rookie card is a prized possession for collectors, representing one of the most dominant hitters of the 1990s.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $150
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $75
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $40
Where to Buy
- eBay: Frequent auctions.
- Heritage Auctions: High-end collectibles.
- Beckett Marketplace: Verified sellers.
7. Sammy Sosa Rookie Card (#548)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $120
Overview
Sammy Sosa, a key player during the home run chase in 1998, has a rookie card that remains popular. Collectors still value his card for its connection to baseball’s home run era.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $120
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $60
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $30
Where to Buy
- eBay: Auctions and Buy It Now options.
- COMC: Wide selection of grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
8. Barry Bonds (#333)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $100
Overview
Barry Bonds, the all-time home run leader, is a controversial figure but his 1989 Topps card is still sought after. Bonds’ card holds value for its significance in baseball history.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Estimated at $100
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $50
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $25
Where to Buy
- eBay: Frequent availability.
- PWCC Marketplace: Quality graded cards.
- Heritage Auctions: For premium purchases.
9. Roger Clemens (#400)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $90
Overview
Roger Clemens, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, has a 1989 Topps card that remains valuable. Despite controversies, Clemens is one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued around $90
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $45
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $25
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular listings.
- COMC: Affordable options.
- Beckett Marketplace: Verified sellers.
10. Mark McGwire Rookie Card (#401)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $80
Overview
Mark McGwire, known for his power-hitting, was a central figure in the home run chase in 1998. His rookie card is a key item for collectors, especially those focusing on the home run era.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Can reach $80
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $40
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $20
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular availability.
- PWCC Marketplace: High-quality graded cards.
- Sportlots: Varied conditions.
Read Also: Own a RARE Burrow Rookie?
11. Cal Ripken Jr. (#300)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $70
Overview
Cal Ripken Jr., known as “The Iron Man” for his record-breaking consecutive games streak, is a beloved figure in baseball. His 1989 Topps card is a collector’s favorite.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Estimated at $70
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $35
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $20
Where to Buy
- eBay: Frequent listings.
- COMC: Affordable options.
- Heritage Auctions: Premium cards available.
12. Wade Boggs (#650)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $60
Overview
Wade Boggs, one of the most consistent hitters in baseball history, has a 1989 Topps card that collectors highly value. His card represents one of the best contact hitters of his era.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $60
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $30
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $15
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular auctions.
- PWCC Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
- Sportlots: Various conditions.
13. Tony Gwynn (#500)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $55
Overview
Tony Gwynn, known for his incredible batting average, is one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. His 1989 Topps card is a must-have for any serious collector.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $55
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $25
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $15
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- COMC: Wide range of grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: Verified sellers.
14. Pedro Martinez Rookie Card (#633)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $50
Overview
Pedro Martinez, a dominant pitcher of his era, has a rookie card in the 1989 Topps set that is highly collectible. Martinez’s card is prized for its connection to one of the most skilled pitchers in baseball history.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $50
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $25
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $15
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular auctions.
- PWCC Marketplace: Graded options.
- Sportlots: Various conditions.
15. Greg Maddux (#363)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $45
Overview
Greg Maddux, known for his pinpoint accuracy and strategic pitching, is a Hall of Famer with a valuable 1989 Topps card. Collectors value Maddux’s card for its connection to one of the smartest pitchers in the game.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $45
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $20
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $10
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- COMC: Various grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: Reliable sellers.
16. Tom Glavine Rookie Card (#445)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $40
Overview
Tom Glavine, another member of the Hall of Fame, was a key part of the Atlanta Braves’ rotation during their dominance in the 1990s. His rookie card is a must-have for collectors of 1989 Topps.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $40
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $20
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $10
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- PWCC Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
- Heritage Auctions: Premium cards available.
17. Alex Fernandez Rookie Card (#643)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $35
Overview
Alex Fernandez was a solid pitcher during his career, and his rookie card is part of the 1989 Topps set. Although not as valuable as others, it’s still a nice addition to a complete collection.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $35
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $18
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $10
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular listings.
- COMC: Wide selection.
- Beckett Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
18. Robin Ventura Rookie Card (#374)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $30
Overview
Robin Ventura, known for his consistency and defensive prowess, has a rookie card that’s part of the 1989 Topps series. Ventura’s card is a must for those focusing on great third basemen.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $30
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $15
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $8
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- PWCC Marketplace: Graded options.
- Sportlots: Affordable grades.
19. Ellis Burks Rookie Card (#466)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $25
Overview
Ellis Burks was a solid all-around player, and his rookie card in the 1989 Topps set is a nice collectible. While not as high in value as others, it remains a valuable piece for those completing the set.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $25
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $12
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $6
Where to Buy
- eBay: Frequent availability.
- COMC: Various grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: Verified sellers.
20. Brady Anderson Rookie Card (#343)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $20
Overview
Brady Anderson, known for his power surge in 1996, has a rookie card that’s part of the 1989 Topps collection. It’s an affordable card for those looking to complete their set.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $20
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $10
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $5
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly listed.
- PWCC Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
- Sportlots: Varied conditions.
21. Marquis Grissom Rookie Card (#655)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $18
Overview
Marquis Grissom was a key player during the 1990s, especially known for his speed and defense. His rookie card is part of the 1989 Topps set, making it a nice addition for fans of that era.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $18
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $9
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $5
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular listings.
- COMC: Various grades.
- Beckett Marketplace: Reliable sellers.
22. Mike Piazza Rookie Card (#692)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $15
Overview
Mike Piazza, one of the greatest hitting catchers of all time, has a rookie card in the 1989 Topps series. Though not as valuable as some others, it’s a must-have for fans of Piazza.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $15
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $8
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $4
Where to Buy
- eBay: Frequently available.
- PWCC Marketplace: Graded options.
- Sportlots: Affordable choices.
23. Jim Abbott Rookie Card (#343)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $12
Overview
Jim Abbott, known for his inspirational career, has a rookie card in the 1989 Topps set. It’s a card that holds sentimental value for many collectors.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $12
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $6
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $3
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly available.
- COMC: Various conditions.
- Beckett Marketplace: Trusted sellers.
24. Omar Vizquel Rookie Card (#648)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $10
Overview
Omar Vizquel, one of the best defensive shortstops in history, has a rookie card in the 1989 Topps set. While not as valuable as some, it’s a great card for fans of defensive wizards.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Around $10
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $5
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $3
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regularly listed.
- PWCC Marketplace: High-quality graded cards.
- Sportlots: Affordable options.
25. Mo Vaughn Rookie Card (#692)
Prices
- Estimated Value: $9
Overview
Mo Vaughn, known for his powerful hitting, has a rookie card in the 1989 Topps set that’s affordable yet significant for collectors focusing on the era.
Grade
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Valued at $9
- PSA 9 (Mint): Around $5
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Around $2
Where to Buy
- eBay: Regular listings.
- COMC: Wide selection.
- Beckett Marketplace: Verified sellers.
Read Also: Ted Williams Card: Diamond or Dud?
Final Words
These top 25 cards from the 1989 Topps set are not only valuable but also represent some of the most iconic players in baseball history. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply admire, understanding the market and the grading process is key to making the most of your collection.