Ken Griffey Jr.
Modern Classic · 1980s–1990s
An essential Diamond & Cardboard guide to Ken Griffey Jr.’s defining rookie cards, important early issues, condition considerations and long-term collector appeal.
PLAYER LEGACY
MLB Debut
1989
Hall of Fame Induction
2016
Career Highlights
630 home runs; 13 All-Star selections; 10 Gold Gloves; 1997 AL MVP
THE SIGNATURE ROOKIE
Primary Collector Chase
1989 Upper Deck #1
Other Rookie-Year / Issue Alternatives
1989 Topps Traded #41T; 1989 Donruss #33; 1989 Fleer #548; 1989 Score Traded #100T
Important Early Cards
1990 Topps #336; 1990 Upper Deck #156; 1990 Leaf #245
COLLECTOR’S ANALYSIS
Why Collectors Care
Iconic flagship debut, cross-generational nostalgia, Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds collectors.
Condition & Grading
The 1989 Upper Deck #1 is a hobby landmark, but its fame should not be confused with low print-run scarcity. Centering, surface, hologram integrity, and grade matter; compare the same issue and grade.
Market Risk
Large surviving supply of many late-1980s cards limits the assumption that every rookie appreciates.
HOW TO EVALUATE VALUE
Completed Sales
Compare authenticated completed sales for the exact set, card number, variation and grade. Do not treat asking prices as realized market values.
Grading Populations
Review PSA, SGC or Beckett population reports for the exact issue and grade; account for possible resubmissions.
Historical Sales
A highest-reported sale is not supplied here without a dated, independently verifiable transaction and source. Add a documented record after verification.
HIGHEST PUBLIC CARD SALE LOCATED
Sale Price
$280,600
Card
1998 SkyBox E-X2001 Essential Credentials Now #10, numbered /10
Grade
PSA 9
Auction House
Heritage Auctions
Sale Date
March 1, 2026 (ties May 18, 2025 sale)
Verification
Auction-house verified; highest public card sale located.
Diamond & Cardboard | Hobby Stars: Vintage & Modern Classics. Historical card identification and career facts are starting points; pricing, grading populations and auction records require current verification.
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