Top-100 Most Valuable Baseball Cards of All Time

The Most Valuable Baseball Cards of All Time

Have you ever wondered how much the most valuable baseball cards of all time are worth?

The idea that a vast sum of money, enough to buy stunning houses in an upscale urban area, is rolled out on an old piece of cardboard may seem unfathomable. 

Sports enthusiasts like yourself can relate to the euphoria that baseball cards from some of the notable players in baseball, especially rookie cards, bring.

The popularity of baseball cards, which has seen humongous sums rolled out to purchase them, began in the 1980s when an increase in baseball cards led to a corresponding increase in baseball card collectors and this mere product.

That increment led baseball cards down the path of increased demand and supply, thereby significantly shooting up their value.

BiglySports brings the top 100 most valuable baseball cards. 

Before we delve into that, let’s review some questions, which probably may have crossed your mind regarding baseball cards’ high value.

Contents show

How are Baseball Cards of Value?

It may be heartbreaking to you, but about 99% of baseball cards are worthless. 

Yes!

Despite the level of success or popularity of the player whose card you own, your card may be worthless. 

As earlier stated, the only factor that plays a significant role in determining a baseball card’s value is the logical and straightforward economics of demand and supply. 

Due to the fact that there is a high demand for limited types of baseball cards, some of which are pre-War and post-War vintage cards, the value of such cards skyrocket.

As a result, it becomes necessary for baseball cards, especially those with high value, to be authenticated and valued. 

This is where PSAcard.com comes into the picture.

PSAcard.com, the official grading site of the Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA), authenticates, grades, and values sports cards. 

Take, for instance, you have two cards of the same type, and one gets authenticated and valued by the PSA. 

In that case, the authenticated card will be more valuable than the unauthenticated one, as buyers will have confidence that your authenticated card is the real deal. 

At this point, you may have wondered what factors the PSA takes in determining the value of a card. 

Ideally, the older a card is, the more valuable it is, but this is not always the case. 

The most valuable baseball cards are not the oldest baseball cards. That is as a result of the demand and supply factor which influences the value of a card. 

A card from 2010 could be more valuable than a card from the 1900s, as long as the card’s demand is incredibly high. 

A card’s demand is further influenced by factors such as limited availability and controversies. 

Also, a player’s relevance plays a not too important but considerable role in a card’s value.

How do I know if my baseball cards are worth anything?

For you to get an idea of the worth of your baseball card, you must follow these eight steps.

1. Examine the condition of your card

Vintage cards are often held to lower standards, so creases and bent corners would not affect their value than non-vintage cards.

2. Check the card date

Cards from the 1980s and 1990s are not worth much today. Cards from the pre-1980s are considered very valuable. 

But remember that demand for the card is the superior factor in deciding the card’s value.

3. Check for autographs

Autographs can boost a card’s value. 

But, be wary of autographed cards from decades before 2000, as autographed cards are a recent development.

4. Check for Multicolor or older memorabilia cards

Cards that feature pieces of jerseys with players are quite valuable. 

But recently released cards have flooded the market with memorabilia cards with single color jerseys. 

Cards from 1990–2000, which features multicolor jerseys, are often valuable, as that was when the introduction of multicolor jerseys cards began.

5. Check for rookie cards

Rookie cards are among the most valuable cards. In fact, they form the basis of the card collecting hobby. 

It’s best to identity such cards with price guides, as it’ll help you know if you have the real deal.

Rookie cards are valuable, as they are from a player’s rookie season. 

A player can be a rookie once, thereby making such cards limited, and limited supply translates to high demand.

6. Check for low print runs

Cards with low print runs are often valuable, as they are in limited supply. Cards with serial numbers have print runs stamped on them.

7. Check Which athlete is on the card?

Cards from the biggest stars are considered valuable. Even if they were not valuable at the moment, with time, that value would increase. 

So don’t let go of that Babe Ruth card for next to nothing.

8. Check Price Guides

Another option to know if your baseball card is worth anything is to check price guides such as cardmavin.com

You may not have the exact value of your card, but the value of similar cards would show, and the average value of these cards can be considered your card’s value.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s get down to the top 100 most valuable baseball cards ever.

The Most Valuable Baseball Cards Ever – Ultimate List

1. 1909-11 T206 White Border Honus Wagner

T206 Honus Wagner Baseball Card

Value (PSA 4 Estimate): $4,000,000 

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

This card is the most popular pre-War card of the T206 set. It is widely considered to be the holy grail of baseball cards. 

T206 Honus Wagner card, manufactured by the American Tobacco Company, sells for as low as $1 million in poor condition.

The high value of the T206 Honus Wagner card has to do with the card’s limited supply.

This card was withdrawn from production after Wagner’s dispute with the American Tobacco company. 

About 50–75 of the T206 Honus Wagner card exists, and the race to complete the T206 Series shot up the card’s value.

Many fake T206 Honus Wagner baseball cards are available, so do well to grade the card with PSA before buying.

2. 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle

1952 Topps 311 Mickey Mantle Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $2,500,000 

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The most popular post-War baseball card, the 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle baseball card, is seen as a card that indicates the sports card market’s health. 

Though the card is not the official card of Mickey Mantle, it is of value for various reasons.

The card is a high number card (cards 311 – 407 in the set), which means there are few numbers of Mickey Mantle rookie cards when you compare the average 1952 Topps baseball card.

Topps entered the sports card industry in 1952, so the 1952 set is trendy, and even common cards of the set are sold for $1000.

Just a few high number cards are in existence today because several cards of high number were dumped in the ocean.

3. 1916 M101-5 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie Card 

1916 M101 5 Sporting News Babe Ruth rookie card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $1,350,000 

Measurements: 1-5/8 in by 3 in

For baseball fans, the value of this card comes as no surprise. The card is a rookie card of one of the greatest baseball players of all time. 

His is one of the few occasions where a player’s relevance and success jerks up the price of a card. 

The player factor is further bolstered by the fact that the card is a rookie card, among the most valuable cards in sports. 

The card shows Babe Ruth in a Boston Red Six jersey before trading to the New York Yankees. 

It is among the most important cards in the M101-5 200-card set, with several types featuring an advertising back, though several of the cards have blank backs.

The card is very rare, thus making it worth a fortune. In PSA 8 NM-MT condition, the card sells for as low as $1 million.

4. 1916 M101-4 Sporting News #151 Babe Ruth Rookie Card

1916 M101 4 Sporting News 151 Babe Ruth rookie card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $1,350,000 

Measurements: 1-5/8 in by 3 in

The 1916 M101-4 Sporting News #151 Babe Ruth Rookie Card is an essential piece in the 1916 M101-4 Sporting News set.

It is another card that features one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen, 

The 1916 M101-4 Sporting News set came into circulation shortly after the M101-5. 

Though the M101-5 is harder to find than the M101-4, the card still fetches about $1,000,000 in PSA 8 NM-MT condition. 

It’s hard to tell the difference between the #151 card in the M101-5, and M101-4 set, except the back of the card, shows an ad that is unique to a particular collection. 

The easiest way to tell the M101-4 Babe Ruth Rookie card from an M101-5 Babe Ruth Rookie Card is by checking if a Sporting News ad is on the M101-4 card ad is unique to the M101-4 set.

5. 1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Tobacco (Ty Cobb Back)

1909 11 T206 Ty Cobb baseball card Ty Cobb back

Value (PSA 4.5 Estimate): $1,100,000 

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

The famous T206 set is valuable for so several reasons, but the several brand adverts on the back of the card, which totals 16, is one of the primary reasons it’s unique. 

The Ty Cobb card in the T206 set is one of the set’s rarest cards, as only 22 of the cards are in circulation.

In 2016, the T206 Ty Cobb was at the center of the “The Lucky 7” find, after 7 of the cards were found in a paper bag.

The card, which is the most expensive of all Ty Cobb cards, can be sold for $1 million in PSA 4.5 condition.

6. 1914 Baltimore News #9 Babe Ruth

1914 Baltimore News 9 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 4 Estimate): $925,000 

Measurements: 4-1/2 in x 6 in

This card is one of the rarest sports cards available, and the fact that it’s a “pre-rookie” baseball card of one of the greatest baseball players in history.

Only 10 of the cards can be found, and they are in blue and red colors.

The card’s story has to do with Babe Ruth signing with Jack Dunn’s minor-league Baltimore Orioles.

Due to financial issues, Dunn soon had to sell the then-rising star’s contract to the Boston Red Sox.

The incredibly rare card conditions are often terrible, but the fact that it’s rare and highly demanded makes it value for about $900,000 in a PSA 4.

7. 1909-11 T206 White Border Eddie Plank

T206 Eddie Plank Baseball Card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $850,000 

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

Every card in the famous T206 set sparks every enthusiastic sports card collector’s interest. 

Still, the 1909-11 T206 White Border Eddie Plank card brings about a new level of excitement in all card collectors.

Aside from the 1909-11 T206 White Border Honus Wagner (our number one pick), no other card in the T206 set is more desirable.

This card is the only one of the famed Hall of Fame pitchers, Eddie Plank. 

That and the fact that the card is extremely rare, it comes as no surprise it’s widely sought.

Regarding the extreme rarity of the card, lots of speculations have been made. 

The most popular of the speculations was that the card had a poor printing plate, and as a result, several of the kind were destroyed as they did not meet the standard of quality control.

The few 909-11 T206 White Border Eddie Plank cards currently in circulation have poor centering from the top of the card to the bottom. 

Sometimes, the poor centering cut into the text of the card.

8. 1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie Card

1951 Bowman 253 Mickey Mantle rookie card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $700,000 

Measurements: 2-1/16 in by 3-1/8 in

Though the 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle card is more popular and costs more than this card, it’s still considered a gem.

That is because the 1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie Card is the only well known Mantle Rookie card.

It is only natural that this card’s value is incredibly high, as it’s the only recognized rookie card from one of the greatest players baseball has ever seen.

The card’s design is attractive and shows Mickey Mantle’s pose with the bat like he’s about to strike a ball.

The card suffers common shortcomings common to the high number of cards in the card set.

There are stains on the back, print lines, and poor centering.

9. 1909-11 T206 White Border Sherry Magie Error Card

T206 Sherry Magie Error Baseball Card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $660,000 

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

When you pair this card with the 1909-11 T206 White Border Honus Wagner and the 1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Tobacco (Ty Cobb Back), you’ll have the rarest cards of the famous T206 set.

This card is among the most famous error cards in sports card history.

It is called an error card because Sherry Maher, the famed left fielder, was spelled as Magie.

Few of the cards are in existence, thus driving up their value.

10. 1909-11 American Caramel E90-1 Joe Jackson Rookie Card

1909 11 American Caramel E90 1 Joe Jackson baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $600,000 

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

Due to a ban from playing baseball professionally by the MLB first commissioner for his involvement in the Black Sox scandal, Joe Jackson’s baseball career’s abrupt end caused only a few of this card to be produced.

In fact, just a few Joe Jackson cards exist.

Due to their limited availability, Joe Jackson’s card became sought after, thus driving up the value of the 1909-11 American Caramel E90-1 Joe Jackson Rookie Card.

Though famous players Honus Wagner and Ty Cobbs have their cards in the set, Joe Jackson’s card is the most important card in the collection.

11. 1910 T210 Old Mill Joe Jackson

1910 T210 Old Mill Joe Jackson baseball card

Value (PSA 3.5 Estimate): $600,000 

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-5/8 in

Joe Jackson’s card is instantly recognized in the T210 Old Mill set, which features several minor league players. 

Jackson’s performance around the time the card was designed is a clear indication of why it’s valuable.

The card shows Joe as a player of the New Orleans Pelicans, Cleveland Naps’ minor league team. 

Before becoming a Cleveland Naps’ player, Jackson had played in the 1908 and 1909 season for the Philadelphia Athletics.

The Philadelphia Athletics felt Jackson was not adding value to the team, and he was sold to the Naps’ in the 1910 season.

Before going on to the majors, he dominated in the minors, where he made a name for himself.

Like all Joe cards, this card is scarce. The few card available conditions are sensitive, as the card’s red borders are vulnerable to wear.

12. 1933 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth

1933 Goudey 53 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $600,000 

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

The 1933 Goudey set features four-card of one of baseball’s greatest players, Babe Ruth, #s 53, 144, 149, and 181.

All of which made this list, which speaks volumes about their importance, value, and desirability.

The “Yellow Ruth” card, #53 on the set, is regarded as the toughest and the most valuable Babe Ruth card in the set. 

#149 card comes in second place in terms of toughness. The  #144 “Full Body Ruth” card is not as rare as the others, but finding it in high grade is difficult.

Since the card is not the legendary Slugger’s rookie card, it’s not the most expensive Babe Ruth card, but it’s among the most attractive.

13. 1909-11 T206 White Border Joe Doyle (N.Y. Natl.)

T206 Joe Doyle Error Baseball Card

Value (PSA 3 Estimate): $550,000 

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

It may seem like a mystery that this card from the famous T206 set is worth this much. 

That mystery is fuelled by the fact that Joe Doyle isn’t a widely known player as such. The popularity of the card comes down to an error in the card.

Joe Doyle was playing for the New York Highlander in the American League when the card was made. But the card was produced with “N.Y. Nat’l.”

The error could be attributed to the fact that Larry Doyle, another player, was playing as a second baseman for the New York Giants in the National League.

A few of the cards showed the “N.Y. Nat’l” error, and thus it became popular.

14. 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays Rookie Card

1951 Bowman 305 Willie Mays rookie card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $500,000 

Measurements: 2-1/16 in by 3-1/8 in

Some will say “The Say Hey” center fielder is the greatest baseball player in history, which is a testament to the fact that Willie Mays was an exceptional all-rounder player.

His 1951 Bowman rookie card and Mickey Mantle’s rookie card from the set are the keys to the 1951 Bowman set’s entire card.

The fact that the card is the only recognized rookie card of Mays, who ties for the most appearance in All-star games with Stan Musial and Hank Aaron, makes it no surprise that the card is valuable.

His pitch accomplishments made him among the most collected players in sports card collection history. 

This rookie card is the most important of all Willie Mays cards.

15. 1948 Leaf #8 Satchel Paige Rookie Card

1948 Leaf 8 Satchel Paige rookie card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $400,000 

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

Post-war cards are hard to collect, but the 1948 Leaf #8 Satchel Paige Rookie Card is even harder to collect.

The card is regarded as one of the hardest post-war cards to collect. 

In the 1948 Leaf set, no card aside from Stan Musial and Jackie Robinson rookie cards hold the keys to the entire set.

When he got his shot into the Major League, Satchel Paige, who was 42 years old, established himself as a dominant five in the league and was named to the All-star team twice.

It’s very hard to find a high-grade card of this sort due to poor print quality and focus.

16. 1915 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson

1915 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $350,000 

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

One of the rare Joe Jackson cards in circulation, this card is considered to be among the most attractive Joe Cards. 

In the card, Joe Has a similar picture as in the 1914 cracker set. Most high-end examples of the 1915 and 1914 Joe Cards are from 1915.

The 1914 Joe Issue of the cracker card had caramel stains on them, and the 1915 issue rolled out as a redemption campaign, thus the reason why the 1915 issue is high-quality.

17. 1915 Cracker Jack Ty Cobb

1915 Cracker Jack Ty Cobb Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $350,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The game and accomplishments of Ty Cobb in baseball make it no surprise that his 1915 cracker issue is worth this much.

Cobb’s exploits saw him record mind-blowing stats and incredible achievements that no one could deny his ingenuity.

He consistently put up an incredible performance over the years, which made him one of the first five to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Though this card is not Ty Cobb’s most expensive card, it is one of his most popular cards.

18. 1933 Goudey #144 Babe Ruth

1933 Goudey 144 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $350,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

This card is the last of Babe Ruth’s 1933 Goudey cards, which features on our list.

A good number of these cards are double printed, thus making them more in circulation, but finding high-grade types of these cards is difficult.

Though there may be a disparity in the quality and focus in double prints of this card, the card can still be sold for huge sums despite the shortcoming.

19. 1933 Goudey Sport Kings #2 Babe Ruth

1933 Goudey Sport Kings 2 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $350,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

Of all the sets of cards released in the 1930s, the 1933 Goudey Sport Kings R333 set is among the most popular. 

The set features cards from several athletes from football, swimming, horse racing, boxing, tennis, golf, and dog sled racing.

The first card that would generate interest from an avid card collector is the Great Bambino’s card.

The highly desired card cannot be found in high-grade form as a result of angular cuts and centering that aligns to the bottom.

20. 1948 Leaf #79 Jackie Robinson Rookie Card

1948 Leaf 79 Jackie Robinson Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $350,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

Jackie Robinson isn’t just considered one of the greatest baseball players in history. 

He is considered an iconic figure in American sports, which largely had to do with him breaking the baseball color barrier.

Due to his relevance in American sports, the 1948 Leaf rookie card is highly sought.

In the entire 1948 Leaf set, Jackie Robinson’s card and cards, Stan Musial and Satchel Paige, are considered the key to the collection.

The card suffers from coloration and substandard print quality. 

But whatever form it is found, the card can be sold for a huge sum.

21. 1953 Topps #82 Mickey Mantle

1953 Topps 82 Mickey Mantle Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $325,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The 1953 Topps #82 card is arguably Mickey Mantle’s finest card.

While that may be contested, one thing that cannot be contested is the card’s importance. It is said to be Mickey Mantle’s most important card.

It’s often difficult to find a high-grade version of this card, as chipping and centering affect its red bottom. 

The card sometimes has print defects on Mickey Mantle’s face, which something’s turnoff collectors.

It is the key to the whole 1953 Topps collection, alongside Jackie Robinson and Willie May’s cards.

22. 1955 Topps #164 Roberto Clemente Rookie Card

1955 Topps 164 Roberto Clemente Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $325,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The demand for this card has been on the rise over the years. 

In 2012, a PSA 10 copy of the card was sold for $432,690, and in 2016, a PSA copy of the card fetched 478,000.

It comes as no surprise that Roberto Clemente’s card cost this much, as he was an accomplishment during his career, making him one of baseball’s beloved icons.

The baseball icon, known for his benevolence, died in a plane crash on December 31, 1972, en route to Nicaragua to deliver aid to earthquake victims.

In the 1955 Topps rookie card set, Roberto Clemente and Killebrew and Koufax cards are the most important cards, with Clemente’s card ranking as the most important.

23. 1909-11 T206 White Border Ty Cobb “Bat Off Shoulder”

T206 Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $315,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

In the famous T206 series, the four Ty Cobb cards hold as much importance to the sports card collection hobby as the 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth quartet.

The four cards in the T206 set differ in popularity, scarcity, and design. 

This card, which shows Ty Cobb’s green portrait, is probably the most preferred of the quartet in terms of appearance.

Though the card is not as desired as the other Ty Cobb cards in the set, the “Bat Off Shoulder” appears further on this list because it can be found in a PSA 9 mint condition.

24. 1902-1911 W600 Sporting Life Cabinets Ty Cobb

1902 W600 Sporting Life Cabinets Ty Cobb Rookie

Value (PSA 2 Estimate): $300,000

Measurements: 5 in by 7.5 in

25. 1932 U.S. Caramel #32 Babe Ruth

1932 U.S. Caramel 32 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $300,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in by 3 in

Of all the pre-war card sets, the 1932 U.S. Caramel is the most desired and challenging card set.

The card set consists of 32 cards, and Babe Ruth’s card in the set is regarded as the key to the set. 

The fact that the card was released in the same year where Babe Ruth made his famous “Called Shot” in Game 3 of the 1932 World Series against the Chicago Bulls makes it very valuable.

The card shows Babe Ruth wearing a Yankees cap atop a red background.

26. 1933 Goudey #160 Lou Gehrig

1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig 160 baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $300,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

The late baseball star famously known as “the Iron Horse” has two of his cards in the 1933 Goudey card set. 

The card that features the #92 and #160 slots in the set features the same image on both cards.

But, the #160 card is very scarce because it’s difficult to find a high-grade card of its type, and as a result, it fetches a higher price.

Though the card is not just one of the keys to the 1933 Goudey set, but one of Lou Gehrig’s most popular cards, it still ranks below in popularity and demand than the Babe Ruth quartet in the set. 

27. 1933 Goudey #181 Babe Ruth

1933 Goudey 181 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $300,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

In the 1933 Goudey set, the #181 Babe Ruth card, known as the “Green Rush,” is the last of the Sultan of Seat quartet in the set.

The card shows Babe Ruth in pinstripes looking over his right shoulder behind a green background.

Though it costs less than notable Babe Ruth cards, it’s still considered one of his most expensive cards.

28. 1909-11 T206 White Border Ty Cobb (Green Portrait)

T206 Ty Cobb Green Portrait Baseball Card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $275,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

Of the Ty Cobb quartet in the T206 set, the Green Portrait is the toughest to find. 

It’s no news that collectors go for the portrait versions of Ty Cobb cards, but the “Green Portrait” is seen as a must-have, which has jacked up its value.

Aside from the “Red Portrait,” no portrait Ty Cobb card is highly sought than the “Green Portrait.” 

Though subtle in design and imagery, collectors would go the extra mile to get this card.

29. 1914 Cracker Jack Christy Mathewson

1914 Cracker Jack Christy Mathewson baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $250,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

In the 1914 Cracker card set, no card is more difficult to find than the 1914 Cracker Jack Christy Matthewson.

As revealed earlier, the 1914 and 1915 Cracker Jack sets hold not much difference, aside from the fact that the 1915 set is often found in better conditions.

But the 1914 and 1915 Matthewson cards in the Cracker Jack sets have considerable differences from the above. 

Christy Matthewson is the only player in the 1914 and 1915 Cracker Jack set who has different poses, and also his 1914 card is the only key player car that has a horizontal layer.

Though collectors may prefer the 1915 cards because of its quality, the 1914 card value remains uncompromised thanks to its rarity.

30. 1948 Leaf #4 Stan Musial Rookie Card

1948 Leaf 4 Stan Musial rookie card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $250,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

In this list, most players have one recognizable rookie card, but Stan Musial had two. 

Though his 1948 Bowman rookie card is more popular than this card, his 1948 Leaf rookie card is the toughest of the two cards.

The 1948 Leaf card, which uses bright colors, seems more attractive than its Bowman counterpart, but the card’s distracting print lines make finding high-grade cards difficult.

Stan Musial was an exceptional player with incredible achievements playing an essential role in his popularity among collectors.

31. 1952 Topps #261 Willie Mays

1952 Topps 261 Willie Mays Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $250,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

This card is very important because it’s the first-ever Topps card to feature baseball legend, Willie Mays.

The same mistake of assuming that this card is Mays’ rookie card, just like it’s done with the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, is also made with 1952 Topps #261 Willie Mays.

The card that’s #261 in the set is not in the realm of high number cards (311–407), so it’s not as important as the Mickey Mantle card in the set.

But unlike Mickey Mantle’s 1952 Topps card, which costs more than his 1951 Bowman card, Willie Mays’s 1952 Topps card cost considerably less than his 1951 Bowman card.

The major reason for this is the scarcity and quality of both cards. 

The 1952 Willie Mays Topps card suffers the same centering and tilts plague common to all 1952 Topps cards.

32. 1909-11 T206 White Border Cy Young (Portrait)

T206 Cy Young Green Portrait Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $225,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

A notable baseball pitcher, Cy Young amassed 511 wins in his career, a record that can be said most likely would never be broken.

Despite those accomplishments and several more, Young is not regarded as the greatest pitcher in baseball. 

But the MLB has sought to immortalize and honor him by naming the annual pitcher award after him. 

In the T206 set, the Cy Young card appears three times, with this card being the most expensive and toughest of them all.

33. 1911 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Ty Cobb

1911 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Ty Cobb baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $220,000

Measurements: 5-3/4 in by 8 in

This card and the entire cards in this set were among a redemption scheme in which collectors could get a card by sending in coupons. 

To earn at least one card, collectors had to send 25 Old Mill or Fez Cigarette coupons or 10 Turkey Red Cigarette coupon cards.

The set has cards from notable players such as Cy Young, Walther Johnson, and Christy Mathewson. 

But, Ty Cobb cards are the most important card of all the cards in the set.

The card shows Cobb with a bat in his hands, ready to swing, with an intense stare.

The card has two variants, one which features a checklist and the other, a tobacco variant. 

But the variant of the cards still fetches the same price.

34. 1914 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson

1914 Cracker Jack Joe Jackson baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $200,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

This card has the same image as the 1915 Cracker Jack set. 

But, it’s hard to find this card, like every other card in the 1914 Cracker Jack set in good condition. 

This is because the card was packaged directly in the box.

It also gets easily stained by caramel, which is a huge turnoff to collectors.

35. 1917 Collins-McCarthy Babe Ruth

1917 Collins McCarthy 147 Babe Ruth Baseball Card

Value (PSA 5 Estimate): $200,000

Measurements: 2 in x 3-1/4 in

One of the few cards to be printed in its era, the importance of the 1917 Collins-McCarthy Babe Ruth card is widely thought to be underrated.

The card which shows Babe Ruth in a Boston Red Sox uniform is very rare to find.

36. 1933 Goudey #106 Napoleon Lajoie

1933 Goudey 106 Napoleon Lajoie baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $200,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

All cards on this list are rare, but the 1933 Goudey #106 Napoleon Lajoie is even rarer than most of the cards on this list.

The card was not part of the 1933 Goudey set but was set in a year after by collectors who wasted no time to complete the 1933 Goudey set.

However, Goudey set the card with a paper clip, which left permanent indentations on the card. Despite that, it’s still highly sought, as the man featured on the card, Napoleon Lajoie, is one of baseball’s greatest stars.

37. 1933 Goudey #149 Babe Ruth

1933 Goudey 149 Babe Ruth baseball card

Value (PSA 8.5 Estimate): $200,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

Famously known as the “Red Ruth,” the card is regarded as the second toughest card of the 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth quartet.

Though the card is as appealing as the “Yellow Ruth,” it cannot be found in high grade, which is the major difference in the value between it and the “Yellow Ruth.”

38. 1938 Goudey #274 Joe DiMaggio

1938 Goudey 274 Joe Dimaggio Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $200,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in by 3 in

In the 1938 Goudey set, Joe DiMaggio appears twice, but the #274 card is the most valuable of the duo. 

The card’s both feature caricature of the baseball legend, but the difference between both cards is the fact that one has small cartons and information in its background, while the other is blank.

39. 1902-1911 W600 Sporting Life Cabinets Honus Wagner

1902 W600 Sporting Life Cabinets Honus Wagner Rookie Street Clothes Variation

Value: $195,000 (PSA 3.5 Estimate)

Measurements: 5 in by 7.5 in

40. 1909-11 T206 White Border Christy Mathewson (Portrait)

T206 Christy Mathewson Portrait Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $185,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

In the T206 set, Christy Matthewson made three appearances, namely, in the “White Cap,” “Dark Cap,” and “the Portrait.”

Though the “White Cap” is regarded as the trio’s toughest, “the Portrait” is the most popular.

Matthewson’s portrait card is seen as one of Hall of Famers portraits’ toughest cards in the set. 

The fact that Christy Matthewson was an incredible player further drives up the value of the card.

41. 1933 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig

1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig 92 baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $175,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in x 3-3/8 in

This card looks similar to the 1933 Goudey #140 card features on our list. 

Compared to its #140 counterpart, this card has a blue background and white border.

The card of who is considered one of the greatest New York Yankees players has a good level of demand in the sports collection hobby, and you bet the accomplishments of Lou Gehrig had a fabulous role in its demand.

Lou Gehrig held on to to the record of most games played in a season for decades until the record was shattered in 1995 by Cal Ripken. Jr. when he played in his 2,131st consecutive game.

42. 1952 Topps #407 Eddie Mathews Rookie Card

1952 Topps 407 Eddie Mathews Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $175,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The only rookie card of baseball icon Eddie Matthews is sure to worth a lot no matter where it appears on the 1952 Topps card set.

That, along with the fact that his card is the last card in the famous 1952 Topps set, further elevates its value and the need to collect the card.

This is because all cards in the collection are rare to collect, not to talk of high number cards, specifically the last card in the set.

The card, which is positioned in the bottom corner of print sheets and is often found off-center, is one of the toughest cards to collect in the 1952 Topps set.

Eddie Matthews would always be remembered for his formidable partnership with Hank Aaron, which produces amazing results, making them one of MLB’s greatest home runs duo.

43. 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron Rookie Card

1954 Topps 128 Hank Aaron Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $165,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

In baseball, the icon, Hank Aaron, needs not to be introduced.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Aaron was named to the All-Star game on 24 occasions, a record Musial and Mays also hold.

Aaron, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1982, was renowned for his powerful hands, which produced some of the fastest bat speed, the MLB has ever seen.

As a result of this and many of his accomplishments, it’s not surprising that Aaron’s only rookie card would make this list.

The card, which is the most important of all Hank Aaron baseball cards, has a good printing quality compared to previously released card qualities.

As a result, high-end copies of the card are not challenging to find, but the centering is an issue with the card.

In 2012, a PSA Gem Mint 10 copy of the 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron Rookie Card was sold for $357,594.

44. 1914 Cracker Jack Ty Cobb

1914 Cracker Jack Ty Cobb baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

The distinctive feature of this Ty Cobb’s card is the fact that it’s among the most popular cards of the famed baseball icon. 

Like all 1914 Cracker Jack cards, this card design is attractive.

The card is similar to its 1915 Cracker Jack counterpart, except that the 1915 issue is printer on thicker paper and is turned upside down.

The card is one of the key cards in the set.

45. 1939 Play Ball #92 Ted Williams Rookie Card

1939 Play Ball 92 Ted Williams rookie card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in by 2-7/8 in

We can only wonder what impressive records Ted Williams would have set had he not gone into military service for five years. 

Despite that, Williams proved to be one of the greatest hitters of all time, which is evidenced by his career stats.

The argument that if he had those five years he lost to military service, he could pull up enough to challenge Babe Ruth’s career home run cannot be dismissed.

The 1939 Play Ball #92 Rookie card is one of the baseball stars is his only recognized rookie card. 

The card shows Williams in black and white with a classic swing pose.

46. 1952 Topps #1 Andy Pafko

1952 Topps 1 Andy Pafko Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

Earlier, we stated that being a star has little influence on how much a card is demanded. This card is a classic example of such. 

The 1952 Topps #1 card is made this list not because Andy Pafko was a widely celebrated baseball legend or as a result of card error, but because it’s the first card of the most important post-war card set to be released.

After buying an unopened five-card pack of Topps Baseball cards, a collector once got the only 1952 Topps #1 Andy Pafko card to be graded a PSA Gem Mint 1, which fetched $250,000.

47. 1954 Wilson Franks #20 Ted Williams

1954 Wilson Franks 20 Ted Williams baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

In the history of regional baseball card importance, the 1954 Wilson Franks #20 Ted Williams would also be at the top.

The card was distributed in hot dogs, and as a result, it’s very hard to find in high grade.

Few of the very sensitive cards can be seen in high grade, and this one is said to have never been packaged and have left the factory by hand.

Of all the Ted Williams cards produced, this is the most desirable.

48. 1961 Topps Dice Game Mickey Mantle

1961 Topps Dice Game Mickey Mantle Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in x 3-1/2 in

49. 1909 Ramly Cigarettes T204 Walter Johnson

1909 Ramly Cigarettes T204 Walter Johnson baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $130,000

Measurements: 2 in x 2-1/2 in

The 1909 Ramly Cigarette T204 Card set is one of the card sets that feature the most elaborate decorative feature.

One of the card’s eye-catching features is the golf border surrounding Walter Johnson’s black and white portrait. 

But, that affects its quality. The card is vulnerable to wear and chipping.

The card is one of the most challenging cards to find in the set and is considered the key to the set.

The high demand for the card has to do with Walter Johnson’s accomplishments, who is considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time.

50. 1887 N172 Old Judge Cap Anson (In Uniform)

1887 N172 Old Judge Cap Anson In Uniform

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $150,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in x 2-1/2 in

The 1887 N172 Old Judge is seen as the most popular set of cards produced in the 19th century. 

It features such as 12 variations of players, which makes the card boast as many as 3000 cards.

Cap Anson appears on two cards in the 1887 N172 Old Judge set, but the uniform version is the rarest of the two.

The card is so rare that a handful is in circulation, and few sports card collectors have seen the card.

51. 1934 Goudey #37 Lou Gehrig

1934 Goudey 37 Lou Gehrig baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $130,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

In the 1934 Goudey card set, Lou Gehrig appears on two cards, #37 and #61. 

Both cards are classics, but #37 is the most popular of the two.

The card shows Gehrig smiling on a yellow background, making a visually appealing card.

52. 1953 Topps #244 Willie Mays

1953 Topps 244 Willie Mays Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $130,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

Among the most important cards in the 1953 Topps card set, the #244 Willie Mays card, shows young Willie Mays in New York Giants uniform fielding a baseball.

The card is highly sought as Mays only appeared in the Topps card in the issue of the card in 1953.

However, it’s hard to find the card in high grade. It is considered the most attractive Willie Mays card.

53. 1909-11 T206 White Border Christy Mathewson (Dark Cap)

T206 Christy Mathewson Dark Cap Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $125,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

54. 1909-11 T206 White Border Cy Young (Bare Hand)

T206 Cy Young Bare Hand Showing Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $125,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

55. 1911 T205 Gold Border Ty Cobb

T205 Gold Border Ty Cobb Baseball Card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $125,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

Another Ty Cobb card that has a great visual appearance.

The card has gold borders, and as a result, it is susceptible to chipping and wears.

This card is special as it was released in the 1911 season when Cobb recorded career highs in slugging hits (248), percentage (.621), batting (.420), triples (24), runs (147), doubles (47), and RBI (127).

The 1911 T205 Gold Border Ty Cobb’s card is considered the most important card in the 1911 T205 Gold Border card set.

56. 1912 Plow’s Candy E300 Ty Cobb

1912 Plows Candy E300 Ty Cobb baseball card

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $125,000

Measurements: 3 in by 4 in

The 1912 Plow’s Boy Candy set is one of the rarest pre-WWI Plow’s Candy cards to be released.

The card contains 69 baseball players, but only seven, which feature Ty Cobb, have been submitted to the PSA for grading.

Like almost all candy and tobacco cards set, the card that shows Ty Cobb ready to swing is the most sought after and valuable card.

In the hobby of card collection, the card is considered a true gem.

57. 1925 Exhibits Lou Gehrig Rookie Card

1925 Exhibits 37 Lou Gehrig rookie card

Value (PSA 6 Estimate): $125,000

Measurements: 3-3/8 in x 5-3/8 in

58. 1911 George Close Candy Co. E94 Ty Cobb

1911 George Close Candy Co. E94 Ty Cobb baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $120,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

Though the 1911 George Close Candy Co. E94 set may not be as popular as many other cards in the sports card collection hobby, it’s still considered valuable.

The unnumbered card features players atop color backgrounds. The Ty Cobb card in the set is the heart of the set. 

About 11 backside variations of the card have “The George Close Co.” printed in them.

59. 1915 American Caramel E106 Ty Cobb (Facing Front With Bat)

1915 American Caramel E106 Ty Cobb with Bat Facing Front baseball card 1

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $120,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

The E106 set was produced by the American Caramel Company of York, Pennsylvania in 1915, and featured 48 cards, with two varieties of Ty Cobb cards.

The set is among the most condition-sensitive cards of all the “E” cards released. 

The card shows Ty Cobb leaning on a baseball bat while wearing a Detroit Tigers uniform. 

The card has the same design as cards from other eras.

60. 1909 Nadja Caramel E92 Ty Cobb

1909 Nadja Caramel E92 Ty Cobb baseball card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $115,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

When the set was produced, Nadja was the name of Blake-Wenneker Candy Co. of St Louis. 

The set includes 62 cards, and the cards among the rarest in the sports card collection hobby because they were sold to children instead of adults. 

As a result, finding high-grade versions of the card may be challenging.

The card does not have a unique design, just like the American Caramel set, but it’s still valuable.

61. 1938 Goudey #250 Joe DiMaggio

1938 Goudey 250 Joe DiMaggio Baseball Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $115,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in by 3 in

This card is the less expensive Joe DiMaggio card in the 1938 Goudey set.

Other cards often feature cartoons in the background, but this shows DiMaggio on a blank background.

The card is very unusual and attracts huge sums in high-grade.

62. 1954 Bowman #65 Mickey Mantle

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $115,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in by 3-3/4 in

In 1954 and 1955, Mickey Mantle was signed exclusively with Bowman, and as a result, the baseball star cannot be found on any other baseball cards except Bowman’s.

The card shows young Mick with a beautiful smile atop a natural background. It lived up to the expectation of eye appeal of every Bowman card.

63. 1912 Plow’s Candy E300 Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $113,000

Measurements: 3 in by 4 in

The 1912 Plow’s Candy E300 set is one of the rarest pre-war card set in history. 

The set was unknown to the public until the 1960s.

In the set, the card, which features Christy Matthewson, the renowned baseball legend of the Dead Ball Era, goes along with two texts, which reads “Plow’s Candy Collection” and “Mathewson, New York Nationals.” 

This card, which is among the most important cards in the set, is very rare to collect.

In fact, all cards in the 1912 Plow’s Candy E300 set are so rare to collect that no collector has ever completed the set.

As a result of this, the joy of any avid sports card collector who comes across this card can only be imagined.

64. 1909-11 T206 White Border Walter Johnson Rookie Card (Portrait)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $110,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

In the 1909-11 T206 White Border set, four baseball legend Walther Johnson appears twice. He appears in a portrait pose and a pitching pose. 

Of the two Walter Johnson cards in the set, the Portrait version is the most desired and most expensive. 

One thing that makes the 1909-11 T206 White Border set desirable is that five Hall of Famers made their debut in the rookie card.

The sight of the Big Train atop a yellow background makes the card desirable to own.

65. 1915 American Caramel E106 Ty Cobb (Facing To Side With Bat)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $110,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in x 2-3/4

Few pre-war sets have an artistic rendering of baseball players from the American, National, and Federal leagues other than the 1915 American Caramel E106.

The card though terrific has a glossy coating, which makes them susceptible to cracking. 

The card also battles with centering issue. Like most cards in which the Georgia Peach is featured, his card is the most important in the set.

66. 1911 Brunners Bread Ty Cobb

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $100,000

Measurements: 1-3/4 in by 2-1/2 in

67. 1911 George Close Candy Co. E94 Honus Wagner

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $100,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

Most pre-war card sets are rare, and one of those sets is the 1911 George Close Candy Co. E94 set. 

In the set, the Honus Wagner card is widely seen as one of the key cards. 

The set has a total of 30 cards, with the cards featuring seven different colors back.

The card shows the famous shortstop of the Pittsburgh Pirate poses with a baseball bat, with his name written below.

Though Ty Cobb’s card is seen as the most desired card in the set, the Honus Wagner card is also desired. 

68. 1911 T205 Gold Border Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $100,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

One of Christy Matthewson’s most popular cards, the card is easy to recognize, but it’s hard to find. 

It shows a close-up view of the top baseball player surrounded by the distinctive T205 gold borders.

Matthew recorded amazing stats in his career, which shot up his popularity, which invariably influences this card’s demand.

69. 1915 American Caramel E106 Honus Wagner (Batting)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $100,000 

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

Though not the most expensive Honus Wagner card, the 1915 American Caramel E106 Honus Wagner (Batting) remains one of the baseball legend’s scarcest cards.

The card, which was produced by American Caramel Co. of York, Pa, is rarely seen at auctions.

It has a glossy obverse surface, making it susceptible to cracking and creasing, making it hard to see a high-grade version of the card.

Despite how obscure the card is, its value remains intact. 

70. 1915 American Caramel E106 Honus Wagner (Throwing)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $100,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

Just like it’s “batting” counterpart above, this  1915 American Caramel E106 is a classic and is obscure and rare. 

The card has the same artwork on its front, just like the E90-1 and E92 caramel issues.

It also suffers from cracking and creasing on the glossy surface, just like the “batting” version.

71. 1933 Goudey #1 Benny Bengough

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $100,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

72. 1909-11 T206 White Border Christy Mathewson (White Cap)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $95,000

Measurements: 1-7/16 in by 2-5/8 in

73. 1895 Mayo’s Cut Plug Cap Anson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $92,500

Measurements: 1-5/8″ by 2-7/8 in

Few cards from the 19th century show the players in their prime. Anson was one of the greatest of his era, but sadly very few cards feature him.

The 1895 Mayo’s Cut Plug Cap set was manufactured by the Mayo and Brother Tobacco Works of Richmond, VA; the set is one of the few cards that show the top baseball star. 

Of all the 48 cards in the issue, Anson’s card is the most desired. The card has black borders, which are vulnerable to chipping and wears. 

However, finding any 19th century baseball card in high grade is almost impossible. No matter the condition of the card, it’s still desired by collectors.

74. 1955 Topps #123 Sandy Koufax Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $92,500

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

For being the only recognized rookie card of one of the greatest lefty in baseball, the 1955 Topps #123 Sandy Koufax Rookie Card is heavily coveted.

Though he had his career cut short by arthritis, his impact in the short span he had in the league made Sandy Koufax the youngest star to be elected to the Hall of Fame.

Popularly known as the “The Left Arm of God,” Sandy Koufax had a left hand that recorded incredible strikeouts, which earned him as much as 382 batters in a season. 

Sandy Koufax also received the MVP award twice in his career.

His card has black botches in the yellow background and also faces centering issues.

75. 1909 Nadja Caramel E92 Honus Wagner (Throwing)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $90,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

76. 1934 Goudey #61 Lou Gehrig

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $85,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

77. 1940 Play Ball #1 Joe DiMaggio

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $85,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in x 3-1/8″

78. 1948 Leaf #4 Babe Ruth

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $85,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

79. 1953 Stahl-Meyer Franks Mickey Mantle

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $85,000

Measurements: 3-1/4″ x 4-1/2″

80. 1909 American Caramel Ty Cobb

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

81. 1909 Nadja Caramel Honus Wagner (Batting)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

82. 1915 American Caramel E106 Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

83. 1909 American Caramel Honus Wagner (Throwing)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

84. 1910 Mello Mint Ty Cobb

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 1-3/8 in by 2-5/8 in

85. 1948 Leaf #1 Joe DiMaggio

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 2-3/8 in by 2-7/8 in

86. 1951 Bowman #1 Whitey Ford Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 2-1/16 in by 3-1/8 in

87. 1954 Topps #94 Ernie Banks Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $75,000

Measurements: 2-5/8 in by 3-3/4 in

This card is the only recognized rookie card of Ernie Banks.

In the 1954 Topps set, this card, along with Al Kaline and Hank Aaron cards set, remain the key to the set.

The beautifully designed card is so different from other cards from the 1950s that it cannot be mistaken for any other card from the era.

The card shows two images of Banks atop a white background with print defects and centering errors.

88. 1888 N162 Goodwin Champions Cap Anson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-5 in by 2-5/8 in

89. 1895 Mayo’s Cut Plug Ed Delahanty

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-5/8″ x 2

90. 1909 Nadja Caramel E92 Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

91. 1909 American Caramel Honus Wagner (Batting)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

92. 1910 Mello Mint Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-3/8 in by 2-5/8 in

93. 1910 Mello Mint Honus Wagner (Throwing)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-3/8 in by 2-5/8 in

94. 1912 T207 Brown Background Irving Lewis (No Emblem)

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $70,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-5/8 in

95. 1909 Philadelphia Caramel E92 Honus Wagner

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $58,000

Measurements: 1-1/2 in by 2-3/4 in

96. 1916 M101-4 Sporting News Joe Jackson

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $55,000

Measurements: 1-5/8 in by 3 in

97. 1916 M101-5 Sporting News Joe Jackson

Value (PSA 8 Estimate): $55,000

Measurements: 1-5/8 in by 3 in

98. 1963 Topps #537 Pete Rose Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $47,500

Measurements: 2-1/2 in x 3-1/2 in

The 1963 Topps Pete Rose rookie card boldly shows the picture of 1963 baseball’s most promising stars Ken McMullen, Pedro Gonzalez, Al Weis, and Pete Ross.

The card fetches a reasonable amount of money for a rare sports card, even in a bad condition.

But if you manage to get your hand on a PSA 10 Gem Mint condition of this card, you’re Bond to earn more than $47,500.

Only one PSA 10 Gem Mint copy of the card is in circulation.

That speaks volumes of how much collectors would be willing to pay to own this classic card.

99: 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan Rookie Card

Value (PSA 9 Estimate): $25,000

Measurements: 2-1/2 in x 3-1/2 in

Though Nolan Ryan appears on other 1968 Rookie cards, it’s the 1968 Topps rookie card that stands apart from the rest. 

In August 2016, a PSA 10 Gem Mint condition copy of this card was sold for $612,359 by Heritage Auctions. 

Avid collectors on the sports card collection hobby would be willing to pay more for this card, as only one PSA 10 Gem Mint condition copy of the card is available.

100. 1909 E95 Philadelphia Caramel Christy Mathewson

Value (PSA 7 Estimate): $13,800

Measurements:  1-1/2 in by 2-5/8 in

In 2019, a PSA 7 NM copy of this card sold for $13,800.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the top 100 most expensive baseball cards feature several copies of some of the greatest baseball players on the planet, such as Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, and several others.

These extremely rare cards’ popularity continues to grow by the day, thus pushing up their value. 

Since only a limited number of these cards are in circulation and baseball will continue to remain among the most popular sports in the world, it’ll come as no surprise if collectors spend more than $4 million to get their hands on a copy of any of these cards.

Recall that the most valuable sports card on this list cost $4 million.

So, the next time you come across a sports card, hold on dearly to it, as you may be holding on to an enormous amount of money.

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