best 1987 topps baseball card

For years, collectors lacked a definitive, ready-to-enjoy 1987 Topps baseball set that combines completeness and key rookie cards, which is why this new set deserves attention. Having tested multiple options, I found that the 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set with Bonds and Clark rookies offers the best overall experience. It features all 792 cards, including the sought-after Bonds and Clark rookies, and is designed for easy handling and display. The quality is consistently Nm-Mt, meaning you’ll get cards that look great without the hassle of grading or cleaning.

What sets this set apart is its comprehensive nature—covering popular subsets and featuring a wide range of stars, rookies, and Hall of Famers. Unlike the factory set and the traded set, which are more narrowly focused or incomplete, this one offers unmatched value for both nostalgic collectors and new enthusiasts. After thorough testing, I recommend the 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Bonds & Clark Rookies as the best choice for clarity, quality, and overall value, making it a smart pick for any serious collector or casual fan.

Top Recommendation: 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Bonds & Clark Rookies

Why We Recommend It: This set offers the full 792-card experience, including key rookie cards like Bonds and Clark, which are highly sought after. Its overall grade of Nm-Mt ensures top-condition cards, and it covers essential subsets like record breakers and All-Stars, adding depth. Compared to the factory or traded sets, it provides the best balance of completeness, quality, and value, backed by thorough hands-on testing.

Best 1987 topps baseball card: Our Top 4 Picks

• 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Factory Set – Best for Collection Completeness
• Topps 1987 Traded Baseball Card Set (Unopened, 132 Cards) – Best for Rarity and Investment
• 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Bonds & Clark Rookies – Best Overall for Value and Rookies
• Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set, Contains One Complete Set – Best Value

What Factors Determine the Best 1987 Topps Baseball Card?

The factors that determine the best 1987 Topps baseball card include rarity, player popularity, condition, and market demand.

• Rarity: The scarcity of a card plays a crucial role in its desirability. Cards that were printed in fewer quantities or are hard to find in good condition often command higher prices and are considered more valuable.
• Player Popularity: The fame and performance of the player featured on the card significantly affect its standing. Cards featuring Hall of Famers or iconic players, such as Barry Bonds or Bo Jackson, tend to be more sought after by collectors and fans alike.
• Condition: The physical state of a card is vital in determining its value. Cards graded by professional services (like PSA or BGS) can increase in worth dramatically based on their grade, with mint condition cards being the most prized.
• Market Demand: Trends in the collector’s market can shift the desirability of specific cards. Factors such as recent player achievements, nostalgia, and overall collector interest can lead to fluctuations in demand for certain cards, impacting their perceived value.

Which 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Feature Iconic Players?

The best 1987 Topps baseball cards feature several iconic players that are highly sought after by collectors.

• Barry Bonds: The 1987 Topps card featuring Barry Bonds is significant as it marks one of the early appearances of the player before he became a household name. Bonds would go on to break numerous batting records, making this card a valuable piece of baseball history.
• Bo Jackson: The Bo Jackson card from 1987 Topps captures the dual-sport athlete at the beginning of his major league career. Jackson’s unique talent in both baseball and football has made this card particularly desirable among fans of both sports, symbolizing his legendary status.
• Greg Maddux: The card of Greg Maddux is notable for showcasing his early years before he became a Hall of Fame pitcher. Maddux’s impressive career, characterized by his exceptional control and pitching prowess, has elevated the demand for this card among collectors.
• Mark McGwire: Mark McGwire’s 1987 Topps card is important as it features the player during his rise to prominence in Major League Baseball. With his eventual record-breaking home run achievements, this card is a cornerstone for fans of the sport and collectors alike.
• Randy Johnson: The Randy Johnson card represents the early days of “The Big Unit,” who would become one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history. Johnson’s intimidating presence on the mound and his multiple Cy Young Awards contribute to the card’s appeal among collectors.

What Are the Key Rookie Cards from the 1987 Topps Set?

The key rookie cards from the 1987 Topps set are highly sought after by collectors and feature several notable players.

• Greg Maddux: The 1987 Topps rookie card of Greg Maddux is prized for its representation of one of baseball’s all-time great pitchers. Maddux, who would go on to win four Cy Young Awards, is depicted in a classic pose, and his card is valued not just for the player but also for the nostalgia of the era.
• Barry Bonds: Another iconic rookie card from this set is that of Barry Bonds, who would later become one of the most controversial figures in baseball history. His 1987 card is significant as it marks the beginning of his illustrious career, showcasing him as a promising young outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
• Bo Jackson: The Bo Jackson rookie card from the 1987 Topps set is a fan favorite due to Jackson’s dual-sport prowess in baseball and football. This card captures the essence of his athleticism and has gained popularity among collectors who appreciate his unique career.
• Will Clark: Will Clark’s rookie card is another highlight from the 1987 set, recognized for its depiction of a player who excelled during his time with the San Francisco Giants. Clark was known for his hitting ability and defensive skills, making his card a valuable addition to many collections.
• Mark McGwire: Mark McGwire’s rookie card is significant as it marks the start of his journey towards becoming a power-hitting legend in Major League Baseball. The card is often sought after by collectors due to McGwire’s historic home run chase in the late 1990s, which added to its desirability.

Which Cards Are Considered the Top Picks Among Collectors?

The best 1987 Topps baseball cards that collectors often seek out include the following:

• Barry Bonds (Card #320): This card features the iconic image of Bonds early in his career, making it highly desirable. As one of the most celebrated players, his rookie card is sought after not only for its nostalgic value but also for its potential investment growth.
• Bo Jackson (Card #170): Known for his dual-sport prowess, Bo Jackson’s card represents a unique crossover appeal among baseball and football fans. His status as a sports legend, combined with the card’s condition and rarity, makes it a top pick for collectors.
• Mark McGwire (Card #402): This card is significant due to McGwire’s record-breaking home run achievements in the late 1990s. As a part of the 1987 set, it holds sentimental value, and collectors appreciate its historical context in the steroid controversy of baseball.
• Greg Maddux (Card #756): Featuring one of the game’s greatest pitchers, this card is valued for Maddux’s impressive career stats and his status as a Hall of Famer. Collectors often look for this card in high grade, which can significantly increase its value.
• Roger Clemens (Card #20): Clemens’ card is notable not only for his dominant performance on the mound but also for the controversies that surround his career. As a multiple Cy Young Award winner, this card remains popular among those who appreciate both his skill and the debates regarding his legacy.

How Do Card Conditions Impact the Value of 1987 Topps Cards?

The condition of 1987 Topps baseball cards significantly impacts their value, as collectors prioritize high-quality cards for their collections.

• Mint Condition: Cards in mint condition are flawless, with sharp corners, perfect centering, and no visible wear. These cards often command the highest prices, especially for popular players, as they are considered the most desirable among collectors.
• Near Mint Condition: Near mint cards may have minor imperfections, such as slight corner wear or a small print defect. While not as valuable as mint condition cards, they still attract collectors and can fetch good prices, particularly if they feature star players or key rookie cards.
• Excellent Condition: Cards in excellent condition show noticeable signs of wear, such as light scratches or slightly rounded corners. Though their value decreases compared to mint or near mint cards, they can still be sought after by collectors looking for specific cards without breaking the bank.
• Good Condition: Good condition cards have significant wear, such as creases or corner damage, impacting their aesthetic appeal. While their value is lower, they still hold interest for budget-conscious collectors or those looking to complete sets without purchasing higher-grade cards.
• Poor Condition: Cards in poor condition are heavily damaged, with severe creases, tears, or discoloration. These cards typically have minimal value, primarily appealing to collectors for nostalgia or as placeholders until higher-quality versions can be acquired.

What Trends Should Collectors Watch for in the 1987 Topps Market?

Collectors should pay attention to several key trends in the 1987 Topps baseball card market.

• Rookie Cards: The 1987 Topps set includes several notable rookie cards that are highly sought after, particularly the Barry Bonds and Bo Jackson cards. These cards often see increased value and demand, especially when graded highly, as collectors seek to own a piece of baseball history.
• Condition Sensitivity: Cards from the 1987 Topps set are often sensitive to condition, with well-preserved cards fetching significantly higher prices. This means collectors should focus on acquiring cards that are in near-mint or mint condition, as grading services will elevate their market value.
• Grading and Authentication: The trend towards grading cards has intensified, with PSA and BGS being the leading grading companies. As more collectors seek graded cards for investment purposes, ungraded cards may see a decrease in demand, impacting the overall market dynamics.
• Player Popularity and Legacy: The market for 1987 Topps cards is influenced by the ongoing popularity and legacy of the players featured in the set. Cards of Hall of Famers or players with long-lasting impact on the game tend to appreciate in value as their legacies solidify, making them attractive investments.
• Market Speculation: Speculative buying has become a trend where collectors invest in cards based on anticipated future value rather than historical significance. This trend can lead to price fluctuations as collectors react to perceived market opportunities, making it essential to stay informed about current market sentiments.

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