Top 25 Highest-Selling Baseball Cards from the Junk Wax Era on eBay (May 2023)
Duane Beckett
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During the Junk Wax Era (84-95), several baseball cards emerged as highly sought-after collectibles. These cards not only showcase the talent and impact of legendary players but also possess unique qualities and intriguing stories that make them even more desirable to collectors.
Let’s explore some of these remarkable cards, providing additional insights and interesting facts about each one, ranked in order of what these baseball cards sold for on eBay in May 2023:
25. Double Misprint Jose Canseco 1989 TOPPS #500, $1,300
The Jose Canseco’s 1989 Topps #500 Double Misprint Error card stands out for its intriguing printing errors. This card features two notable mistakes: a double misprint and an error in the player’s name.
Collectors are often fascinated by such anomalies, as they represent deviations from the intended production process. The combination of these errors and the card’s perfect centering adds to its rarity and desirability among collectors seeking unique and unusual variations. This card sold for $1,300 on May 27th.
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24. 1986 Barry Bonds Rookie Pirates BECKETT 9.5 GEM MINT T0PPS TIFFANY # 11T, $1,492
The 1986 Barry Bonds Rookie Pirates Beckett 9.5 Gem Mint Topps Tiffany #11T card is a true gem in the world of baseball card collecting. Graded Beckett 9.5 Gem Mint, this card represents the emergence of one of the game’s most iconic players.
Bonds’ remarkable career and impressive achievements make this card a valuable piece of baseball history. The “Tiffany” designation signifies a premium edition, further enhancing its desirability among collectors. Owning this card allows fans and collectors to own a top-quality version of Bonds’ rookie card. This card sold for $1,492 on May 27th.
23. 1982 Topps – Future Stars #21 Cal Ripken, Jr., Schneider, Bonner (RC) PSA 10, $1,615
The 1982 Topps – Future Stars #21 Cal Ripken Jr., Schneider, Bonner (RC) card represents an important moment in baseball history. This card features Cal Ripken Jr., who would go on to become one of the game’s greatest shortstops and an icon for the Baltimore Orioles.
Graded PSA 10, this rookie card captures Ripken Jr.’s early career alongside his fellow future stars, Schneider and Bonner. The card’s significance lies in Ripken Jr.’s impact on the game, his record-setting consecutive games played streak, and his status as a beloved figure in Orioles’ history. This card sold for $1,615 on May 11th.
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22. 1987 Leaf #36 Greg Maddux Chicago Cubs RC Rookie HOF Gem Mint PSA 10, $1,725
Greg Maddux, one of the most dominant pitchers of his era, is honored with the 1987 Leaf #36 Greg Maddux Chicago Cubs RC Rookie card. Graded PSA 10 Gem Mint, this card signifies Maddux’s rookie season and showcases his talent on the mound.
Maddux’s ability to control the game and his exceptional command of pitching earned him multiple Cy Young Awards and a place in the Hall of Fame. The card’s perfect grade further adds to its desirability among collectors, who recognize Maddux’s contributions to the sport and seek to preserve his legacy. This card sold for $1,725 on May 27th.
21. 1983 TOPPS #498 Wade Boggs *Rookie PSA 10 GEM MINT, $1,999
Wade Boggs, a Hall of Fame third baseman, is celebrated with the 1983 Topps #498 Wade Boggs Rookie card. Graded PSA 10 Gem Mint, this card represents Boggs’ entry into the major leagues and the beginning of a remarkable career.
Boggs was known for his exceptional hitting ability, consistently posting high batting averages and earning multiple batting titles. The card’s rarity in gem mint condition and its centered alignment make it highly sought after among collectors who admire Boggs’ skill and appreciate the opportunity to own a top-quality rookie card. This card sold for $1,999 on May 11th.
20. 1984 Don Mattingly RC PSA 10 POP 1 GEM MINT Rare, $2,000
The 1984 Don Mattingly RC PSA 10 POP 1 card holds a special place in collectors’ hearts. As a POP 1, it signifies the only existing card of its kind to receive a perfect grade from PSA.
The significance of this card lies not only in its pristine condition but also in its association with the All-Star Game, denoted by the “A.S. Game Rookie” inscription. This rare combination of perfection and historical context makes the card a true holy grail for collectors, representing the pinnacle of Mattingly’s rookie cards. This card sold for $2,000 on May 19th. This baseball card has been relisted for $3,895 here.
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19. 1980 TOPPS #482 Rickey Henderson RC Athletics HoF PSA 9, $2,155
The 1980 Topps #482 Rickey Henderson RC Athletics HOF card is a highly sought-after gem for collectors. Graded PSA 9, this card showcases the rookie season of the legendary Rickey Henderson.
Henderson’s impact on the game, combined with the card’s high grade, adds to its value and desirability. As a member of the Hall of Fame, Henderson’s card holds a special place in the hearts of fans and collectors, making it a prized possession in any collection. This card sold for $2,155 on May 7th.
18. 1982 Topps #551 Reggie Jackson New York Yankees HOF PSA 10 GEM MINT, $2,187
Reggie Jackson, known as Mr. October for his clutch performances in postseason play, is commemorated with the 1982 Topps #551 Reggie Jackson card. This card, graded PSA 10 Gem Mint, captures Jackson’s tenure with the New York Yankees, where he achieved great success and won multiple World Series championships.
Jackson’s powerful swing and his ability to rise to the occasion in big moments have made him a beloved figure in baseball history. The card’s perfect condition further enhances its appeal and establishes it as a prized possession for collectors. This card sold for $2,187 on May 18th.
17. 1982 TOPPS #668 Dale Murphy Braves PSA 10, $2,225
Dale Murphy, a standout player for the Atlanta Braves, is honored with the 1982 Topps #668 Dale Murphy card. Graded PSA 10, this card represents Murphy’s emergence as a star player and showcases his accomplishments on the field.
Murphy’s exceptional skills and his contributions to the Braves’ success during the 1980s have solidified his place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats. The card’s perfect grade adds to its desirability among collectors, who appreciate the opportunity to own a pristine representation of Murphy’s card and celebrate his impact on the game. This card sold for $2,225 on May 11th.
16. 1989 Fleer #616 Bill Ripken Orioles FF Error PSA 10 DNA AUTO 10, $2,625
The 1989 Fleer #616 Bill Ripken Orioles FF Error card represents a fascinating chapter in baseball card history. This particular variation of the card features unintentional profanity in the background, making it a controversial and highly sought-after item among collectors.
Graded PSA 10 with DNA authentication and an autograph, this card holds a unique place in the hobby. Its notoriety and scarcity contribute to its value and make it a must-have for collectors intrigued by the unconventional and the unexpected. This card sold for $2,625 on May 14th.
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15. 1989 Topps Traded Tiffany Ken Griffey Jr #41T Rookie RC PSA 10, $2,750
Ken Griffey Jr. makes two appearances on this list with the 1989 Topps Traded Tiffany Ken Griffey Jr #41T Rookie RC card. Graded PSA 10, this card represents Griffey Jr.’s transition from prospect to major league player. The “Tiffany” designation signifies a premium edition of the card, printed on high-quality stock with a glossy finish.
This variant adds to the card’s desirability among collectors, who appreciate the chance to own a top-quality version of Griffey Jr.’s rookie card. With his charismatic playing style and prodigious talent, Griffey Jr. has captured the hearts of baseball fans and collectors alike. This card sold for $2,750 on May 7th.
14. 1985 Topps Olympic Team #401 Mark McGwire RC Rookie Perfect GEM MINT PSA 10, $2,899
The 1985 Topps Olympic Team #401 Mark McGwire RC Rookie card showcases the early career of a player who would go on to become one of baseball’s most iconic sluggers. Graded PSA 10 in perfect gem mint condition, this card captures McGwire’s participation in the 1984 Olympic Games, representing a significant moment in his journey to the major leagues.
The card’s connection to the Olympic Team and its flawless condition make it a prized possession for collectors who admire McGwire’s power-hitting prowess and his impact on the game. This card sold for $2,899 on May 26th.
13. Tony Gwynn Rookie Card – 1983 Topps #482 – Graded PSA 10 – GEM MINT, $2,900
Tony Gwynn’s impact on the game is celebrated twice on this list, with the 1983 Topps #482 Tony Gwynn Rookie card. Graded PSA 10 Gem Mint, this card represents the emergence of a future Hall of Famer. Gwynn’s exceptional hitting ability and his mastery of the craft have solidified his place as one of the game’s greatest pure hitters.
The card’s rarity in gem mint condition, along with its centered alignment, adds to its desirability among collectors. Owning this card allows fans and collectors to appreciate Gwynn’s greatness and honor his contributions to the game. This card sold for $2,900 on May 14th.
12. 1983 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 1952 Repint *PSA /DNA 10 Auto* Gem Mint Signed, $3,000
The 1983 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 1952 Reprint card holds a special significance in the world of baseball card collecting. This card is a reprint of the iconic 1952 Mickey Mantle card, one of the most sought-after and valuable cards in the hobby. Graded PSA 10 with DNA authentication and an autograph, this gem mint reprint is a perfect homage to Mantle’s legendary career.
The card’s connection to the original 1952 set and the inclusion of Mantle’s signature further enhance its appeal, allowing collectors to own a piece of the Mantle legacy at a fraction of the price of the original card. This card sold for $3,000 on May 14th.
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11. 1985 Donruss Leaf Roger Clemens RC #99 PSA 10 POP 47!, $3,000
Roger Clemens, a dominant pitcher of his era, is honored with the 1985 Donruss Leaf Roger Clemens RC card. Graded PSA 10 with a population of only 47, this card represents a rare gem among collectors. Clemens’s exceptional pitching prowess and his multiple Cy Young Awards have solidified his status as one of the game’s greatest pitchers.
The scarcity of this card, combined with its pristine condition, adds a layer of exclusivity and value to this already highly regarded collectible. This card sold for $3,000 on May 27th.
10. 1984 TOPPS #8 Don Mattingly RC Yankees PSA 10 DNA AUTO 10, $3,050
The 1984 Topps #8 Don Mattingly RC card represents another significant milestone in the career of the New York Yankees’ first baseman. Graded PSA 10 with DNA authentication and an autograph, this card encapsulates Mattingly’s rookie status and his impact on the game.
Don Mattingly’s popularity and success as a player, combined with the card’s perfect grade and additional authentication, make it a true gem for collectors. The autograph adds a personal touch, connecting fans and collectors to Mattingly himself and making this card a prized possession in any collection. This card sold for $3,050 on May 14th.
9. 1982 K-Mart Mickey Mantle #1 PSA 10 GEM MINT, $3,100
Mickey Mantle, a legend in the world of baseball, is honored with the 1982 K-Mart Mickey Mantle #1 card. This card holds a special place in collectors’ hearts due to its association with a limited edition set released by K-Mart.
The exclusivity of the card, combined with its pristine condition (graded PSA 10 Gem Mint), makes it highly sought after by enthusiasts. Mantle’s enduring legacy and immense popularity contribute to the card’s desirability, allowing collectors to own a piece of history associated with one of the game’s all-time greats. This card sold for $3,100 on May 26th.
8. 1983 Topps Tony Gwynn #482 RC Rookie PSA 10, $3,300
Tony Gwynn, known for his exceptional hitting skills and his loyalty to the San Diego Padres, is represented by his 1983 Topps Tony Gwynn #482 RC Rookie card. Graded PSA 10, this card captures Gwynn’s rookie season and highlights his talent as one of the game’s greatest contact hitters.
Gwynn’s commitment to the Padres throughout his entire career and his impressive batting statistics have endeared him to fans and collectors alike. The pristine condition of this rookie card adds to its allure and establishes it as a valuable addition to any collection. This card sold for $3,300 on May 16th.
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7. 1981 Topps Set-Break #261 Rickey Henderson PSA 10 GEM MINT, $3,383
Rickey Henderson’s impact on the game is further exemplified by the 1981 Topps Set-Break #261 Rickey Henderson card. Graded PSA 10 Gem Mint, this card showcases Henderson’s skill as a base stealer, breaking records and setting a new standard for speed on the basepaths.
The Gem Mint grade, denoting its exceptional condition, enhances the card’s desirability among collectors. Henderson’s electrifying playing style and his ability to change the course of a game with his speed have made this card a cherished item in the baseball card collecting community. This card sold for $3,383 on May 18th.
6. 1984 Donruss Don Mattingly HOF Rookie Baseball RC Card # 248 GEM MT PSA 10, $4,000
Don Mattingly, a standout first baseman for the New York Yankees, is immortalized with his 1984 Donruss Don Mattingly HOF Rookie Baseball RC card. This particular card, graded GEM MT PSA 10, holds a special distinction as a POP 1, meaning it is the only card of its kind to receive a perfect grade from PSA.
Mattingly’s rookie card represents his emergence as a star player and his impact on the game. The combination of its rarity, Mattingly’s significance as a player, and the card’s pristine condition make it a highly sought-after treasure for collectors. This card sold for $4,000 on May 15th.
5. 1985 Topps Tiffany #536 Kirby Puckett RC Rookie PSA 10 HOF Twins Centered, $4,084
Kirby Puckett, a beloved Hall of Fame outfielder for the Minnesota Twins, is honored with the 1985 Topps Tiffany #536 Kirby Puckett RC Rookie card. This card, graded PSA 10, signifies Puckett’s entry into the major leagues and his subsequent rise to greatness.
The “Tiffany” designation indicates a premium edition of the card, printed on high-quality stock with a glossy finish, making it even more desirable among collectors. Puckett’s enshrinement in the Hall of Fame and his contributions to the Twins’ success further enhance the card’s appeal, solidifying its place as a prized possession. This card sold for $4,084 on May 18th.
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4. 1982 TOPPS #21 Cal Ripken Jr. RC Orioles HoF PSA 10 DNA AUTO 10, $4,966
Cal Ripken Jr., often referred to as the Iron Man of baseball, is another notable player from the Junk Wax Era. The 1982 Topps #21 Cal Ripken Jr. RC card, graded PSA 10 with DNA authentication and an autograph, represents Ripken Jr.’s rookie card and symbolizes his remarkable durability and consistent play.
Ripken Jr.’s consecutive games played streak and his status as an Orioles icon have solidified his place in baseball history, making this card highly coveted among collectors who appreciate his enduring legacy. This card sold for $4,966 on May 7th.
3. 1980 TOPPS #482 Rickey Henderson RC Athletics HoF PSA 9 DNA AUTO 10, $5,378
Rickey Henderson, known for his exceptional speed and base-stealing prowess, is celebrated with his 1980 Topps #482 Rickey Henderson RC card. Graded PSA 9 with DNA authentication and an autograph, this card encapsulates Henderson’s rookie status and his impact on the game. As one of the greatest leadoff hitters in baseball history,
Henderson’s rookie card holds immense appeal for collectors who appreciate his extraordinary career. The combination of the card’s condition, authentication, and autograph elevates its value and makes it an attractive addition to any collection. This card sold for $5,378 on May 21st.
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2. 1990 Topps Frank Thomas NNOF Error rookie RC BGS 8, $9,300
The 1990 Topps Frank Thomas NNOF Error rookie card presents an interesting anomaly. “NNOF” stands for “No Name on Front,” signifying the absence of Frank Thomas’s name on the front of the card. This printing error occurred during the card’s production and has made it a coveted item among collectors.
Despite the error, the card captures Thomas’s rookie year, representing an important milestone in his career. The unique variation, combined with Thomas’s significance as a player, adds a layer of exclusivity to this particular card. This card sold for $9,300 on May 8th.
1. 1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken GRIFFEY Jr – PSA 10 DNA RC Mariners Auto, $14,000
Ken Griffey Jr., one of the most iconic players of his generation, is represented by the 1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card. This particular card, graded PSA 10 with DNA authentication and featuring an autograph, holds immense value for collectors.
Griffey Jr.’s incredible talent and widespread popularity have elevated his rookie card to extraordinary heights. The inclusion of DNA authentication and the autograph further enhance the card’s desirability, making it a true gem in any collection. This card sold for $14,000 on May 27th.
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These baseball cards from the Junk Wax Era hold special significance for collectors. Whether it’s the exceptional talent of players like Ken Griffey Jr., the allure of rare variations and printing errors, or the historical milestones captured by these cards, each one contributes to the rich tapestry of baseball card collecting.
Collectors continue to seek out and appreciate these cards, cherishing them as valuable pieces of baseball history and as tangible connections to the game’s greatest players.