Investing in 1970s Topps Rookie Cards: The 20 Most Valuable Picks
These 1970s Topps rookie cards aren’t just vintage icons — they’re smart long-term investments. Includes PSA pop, pricing, and collector insight.
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The 1970s marked a turning point for the baseball card hobby. While Topps remained the sole licensed producer, interest shifted from bubblegum-chomping kids to serious adult collectors. And as a result, many of the decade’s rookie cards have become blue-chip assets in today’s vintage card market.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the 20 most valuable 1970s Topps rookie cards worth investing in, including iconic first-year issues of George Brett, Mike Schmidt, and Dave Winfield.
The list is ranked by recent PSA 9 sales, with insights into each card’s population data, condition sensitivity, and long-term appeal.
While mint copies continue to rise in value, many of these cards remain affordable in lower grades, offering a great entry point for collectors and investors alike.
👉 Looking for a quick summary? Jump to the full 1970s rookie card investment table.
1. 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt Rookie Card
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $6,500
PSA 9 Population: ~250
Total PSA Graded: ~12,000
Mike Schmidt’s 1973 Topps rookie card stands at the top of the 1970s heap — both in value and historical importance. Schmidt is regarded as one of the greatest third basemen of all time, slugging 548 home runs and winning three MVP awards.
What makes this card even more appealing is the inclusion of Ron Cey, another longtime standout with over 300 career homers and six All-Star selections. While not a Hall of Famer, Cey adds depth to the card’s appeal.
Collector Insight:
This card has long been a staple in vintage collections, but condition is everything — the 1973 set is prone to centering and surface issues. High-grade examples are scarce. Out of nearly 12,000 PSA-graded copies, only about 250 have earned a PSA 9 grade — and those mint examples regularly fetch $6,500 or more at auction.
Investment Outlook:
If you’re buying for long-term value, PSA 9 is the benchmark. It’s pricey, but supply is limited, and demand is steady. Lower-graded examples (PSA 4–6) are much more affordable and can still be had for a few hundred dollars, making them a decent entry point for budget-minded collectors.
2. 1975 Topps George Brett Rookie Card #228
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $5,500
PSA 9 Population: ~350
Total PSA Graded: ~17,500
George Brett was one of the purest hitters of his generation — a career .305 batter with over 3,000 hits, an MVP award, and All-Star appearances at three different positions. His consistent production and fiery competitiveness made him a Kansas City Royals legend.
His 1975 Topps rookie card is not only the most valuable in the iconic 1975 Topps set, but one of the most visually striking rookie cards of the decade. The bold, colorful design has made this card a collector’s favorite. However, centering issues and print defects plague the set, making high-grade copies more challenging to find.
Collector Insight
The 1975 Topps set is a cornerstone of 1970s collecting. Brett’s card is a must-have, but eye appeal and centering vary significantly — be selective, even in lower grades. Out of over 17,500 graded copies, fewer than 400 have earned a PSA 9, and these tend to sell for around $5,500.
Investment Outlook
High-grade Brett rookies (PSA 9) offer strong long-term potential due to scarcity in mint condition.
The sheer volume of graded examples means that lower and mid-grade copies are unlikely to see significant appreciation. However, they remain a great entry point for vintage collectors on a budget.
3. 1971 Topps Ted Simmons Rookie Card #117
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $3,750
PSA 9 Population: 22
Total PSA Graded: ~2,800
Like Blyleven’s card from the same set, Ted Simmons’ 1971 Topps rookie card commands premium value, not because Simmons was an elite-tier Hall of Famer but because of the brutal condition sensitivity of the 1971 Topps release.
Simmons had a long, productive career as a switch-hitting catcher and was arguably the best in the National League for several seasons. While he didn’t reach the iconic status of Johnny Bench or Carlton Fisk, his stats and longevity eventually earned him a Hall of Fame nod via the Veterans Committee.
Collector Insight
Centered, clean Simmons rookies are tough to find in any grade due to edge wear and surface issues. Even PSA 7 copies can look sharp and are much more attainable.
Investment Outlook
While Simmons may not have the Hall of Fame name power of others on this list, the set rarity and extreme pop scarcity for PSA 9s give this card long-term upside. For investors who understand condition-driven markets, this is a strong under-the-radar play.
4. 1975 Topps Robin Yount Rookie Card #223
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $3,500
PSA 9 Population: ~300
Total PSA Graded: ~14,000
While George Brett often takes the spotlight in the 1975 Topps set, Robin Yount’s rookie card is not far behind in collector demand. Featuring a young Yount in a relaxed batting pose surrounded by the iconic, funky colors of the ’75 design, this card is one of the most recognizable rookie issues of the decade.
Yount was a two-time MVP who shined at shortstop and centerfield — a rare combination of elite glove work and offensive production. Though Brett may have had the edge as a pure hitter, Yount’s versatility and longevity make him a Hall of Fame cornerstone.
Of the over 14,000 Yount rookie cards graded by PSA, only 300 have received a PSA 9 grade. That scarcity drives average sales of mint copies to about $3500.
Collector Insight
Like other 1975 Topps cards, Yount’s rookie suffers frequent centering issues and soft corners. Eye appeal varies widely, even within the same grade, so examine the card closely if you’re buying raw or low-graded examples.
Investment Outlook
PSA 9 copies offer strong long-term upside due to relative scarcity. Lower grades (PSA 4–7) are much more affordable, and while they may not see explosive growth, they’re a great value play for collectors who want a true 1970s icon in their collection.
5. 1971 Topps Bert Blyleven Rookie Card #26
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $3,500
PSA 9 Population: 21
Total PSA Graded: ~4,000
While Bert Blyleven might not top the list of Hall of Fame pitchers based on accolades alone, his 1971 Topps rookie card is one of the most valuable pitcher rookies of the decade, not because of his stats, but because of the set it belongs to.
The 1971 Topps set is notorious for its black-bordered design, which chips and flakes easily. This makes it one of the most condition-sensitive sets ever produced. High-grade cards from this set are incredibly difficult to find, and Blyleven’s rookie is no exception.
Despite more than 4,000 graded copies, only 21 have received a PSA 9, and just one has ever earned a PSA 10. That level of scarcity has pushed PSA 9 values to between $3,500 and $4,000 at auction.
Collector Insight
Even PSA 7 or 8 copies of 1971 Topps cards can be considered premium-condition due to the edge wear issues. A centered, clean PSA 7 Blyleven can still carry strong eye appeal at a fraction of the price.
Investment Outlook:
This is a classic case of set rarity driving card value. For long-term investors, a PSA 9 Blyleven is not just a card — it’s a trophy. With so few in top condition, this one should remain in strong demand regardless of Blyleven’s standing in the HOF pecking order.
6. 1971 Topps Dusty Baker/Don Baylor Rookie Card #709
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $3,000
PSA 9 Population: 10
Total PSA Graded: ~2,000
The 1971 Topps Dusty Baker / Don Baylor rookie card is one of the decade’s most interesting multi-player rookie cards — and one of the short prints from the already condition-sensitive 1971 Topps set. It’s become a collector favorite with two longtime MLB fixtures on one card and the added challenge of black-bordered edges.
Baylor was a feared slugger and MVP winner, while Dusty Baker, already a well-respected player, has since become one of the most successful and beloved managers in modern baseball. His World Series win with the Astros has renewed interest in this card, especially in higher grades.
PSA has graded just over 2,000 copies, but only 10 have earned a PSA 9. That extreme scarcity has pushed PSA 9 values to around $3,000–$4,000, though auction data is limited due to how rarely they come up for sale.
Collector Insight
Beyond scarcity, this card has a real “story” factor — two high-character, high-achievement players on one short-printed rookie in a famously tough set. It’s a standout piece in any 1970s rookie card collection.
Investment Outlook
This is a low-pop, high-upside play, especially if Dusty Baker’s managerial legacy continues to grow. PSA 9 copies are extremely tough, and even mid-grades (PSA 6–7) have started to creep up in price as collectors chase this under-the-radar gem.
7. 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith Rookie Card #36
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $2,750
PSA 9 Population: ~420
Total PSA Graded: ~15,000
Ozzie Smith, affectionately known as “The Wizard,” was the premier defensive shortstop of his era. With 13 consecutive Gold Gloves and 15 All-Star appearances, Smith helped define the St. Louis Cardinals’ success throughout the 1980s with his highlight-reel plays and electric presence on the field.
His 1979 Topps rookie card captures a young Ozzie during his early Padres days, before his iconic run in St. Louis. Among 1970s rookie cards, Ozzie’s is among the most sought-after, thanks to his Hall of Fame legacy, charisma, and all-time status as the best glove-first shortstop.
Despite over 15,000 graded examples, only 420 have achieved a PSA 9. These mint copies typically sell for $2,500 to $3,000 at auction.
Collector Insight
The 1979 Topps set tends to have decent card stock and printing, but many Ozzie rookies suffer from centering issues. Look for clean borders and good color registration — even in PSA 8s, those features can boost appeal.
Investment Outlook
This card is priced attractively given Ozzie’s iconic status and fan base. While PSA 9s aren’t ultra-rare, they’re in strong demand and represent a relatively affordable Hall of Fame rookie with long-term value.
8. 1970 Topps Thurman Munson Rookie Card #189
Estimated PSA 9 Value: ~$2,500
PSA 9 Population: ~88
Total PSA Graded: ~7,550
Thurman Munson was the emotional and physical leader of the 1970s Yankees — a gritty, clutch-hitting catcher who won AL Rookie of the Year in 1970, captured two World Series titles, and was named the Yankees’ first team captain since Lou Gehrig.
His tragic death in a plane crash at just 32 cut short a career that many believe was on a Hall of Fame trajectory. While Munson has not yet been inducted, his 1970 Topps rookie card remains one of the most beloved cards of the era — and the clear standout rookie in the 1970 Topps set.
Out of 5,500+ graded examples, just over 100 have earned a PSA 9 grade, and those mint copies regularly sell for around $3,000.
Collector Insight
This card captures a young Munson during his rise to prominence. The sepia-toned 1970 Topps design pairs well with his stoic expression, and many collectors view it as one of the most emotionally resonant rookie cards of the decade.
Investment Outlook
A PSA 9 Munson rookie offers strong long-term potential, especially if he’s ever voted into the Hall of Fame via the Modern Era committee. Even without enshrinement, the limited PSA 9 population and deep emotional connection to fans give this card lasting appeal.
9. 1971 Topps Steve Garvey Rookie Card #341
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $3,500
PSA 9 Population: 40
Total PSA Graded: ~3,000
Steve Garvey might not be in the Hall of Fame — yet — but his playing career makes a strong case. The longtime Dodgers and Padres first baseman was a 10-time All-Star, 4-time Gold Glove winner, and 1974 NL MVP. He also helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series title in 1981.
Garvey’s 1971 Topps rookie card is one of the most condition-sensitive cards of the decade. Thanks to the infamous black-bordered design, which chips with even minor handling, finding a clean, high-grade Garvey rookie card is especially difficult.
Out of 3,000+ graded examples, only 40 have earned a PSA 9, and just two PSA 10s exist. That extreme scarcity in high grades has pushed PSA 9 values to $3,000–$4,000 in recent sales.
Collector Insight
Garvey’s popularity remains strong among Dodgers fans, and his consistent play during the 1970s made him one of the most visible stars of the decade. A nicely centered PSA 7 or 8 can still be a beautiful and affordable addition to any vintage collection.
Investment Outlook
If Garvey eventually makes it into the Hall of Fame, expect a spike in demand. But even without that boost, this card’s low PSA 9 pop combined with set difficulty gives it strong long-term appeal for serious condition-sensitive collectors.
10. 1976 Topps Dennis Eckersley Rookie Card #98
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,700
PSA 9 Population: ~190
Total PSA Graded: ~5,700
Dennis “Eck” Eckersley had one of the most fascinating career arcs in baseball history, starting as a successful starting pitcher with the Indians and Red Sox before transforming into one of the most dominant closers the game has ever seen.
His career reached legend status in Oakland, where he became the face of the shutdown closer, winning the AL MVP and Cy Young in 1992 and helping lead the A’s to a World Series title in 1989. Along with John Smoltz, he’s one of just two pitchers in MLB history to notch both a 20-win and a 50-save season.
Eckersley’s 1976 Topps rookie card is the key card in the set and one of the decade’s more undervalued Hall of Fame rookie cards. Out of 4,500+ graded examples, only around 200 have received a PSA 9, and fewer than 10 PSA 10s exist. PSA 9 copies typically sell for $1,700 or more.
Collector Insight
This card tends to be well-printed but suffers from centering issues and rough edges. That makes finding a clean, well-centered copy, especially in PSA 8 or higher, more difficult than population numbers might suggest.
Investment Outlook
The Eckersley rookie card has good long-term upside, especially in PSA 8 or better, given his dual-role pitching legacy and extremely low PSA high-grade supply. But collectors can scoop up a PSA 5–7 copy for under $100, offering an affordable entry point for one of the game’s most versatile Hall of Famers.
11. 1970 Topps Vida Blue Rookie Card #21
Estimated PSA 9 Value: ~$1,500
PSA 9 Population: 20
Total PSA Graded: ~1150
Vida Blue was one of the most electric pitchers of the 1970s. Armed with a blazing fastball, he earned six All-Star selections, three World Series rings, and in 1971, swept both the AL MVP and Cy Young awards with a 24–8 record and a 1.82 ERA — one of the most dominant seasons in modern pitching history.
His 1970 Topps rookie card, shared with future World Series hero Gene Tenace, is the second most valuable rookie in the set, behind only Thurman Munson. It’s a key card for collectors who appreciate the dominant players of the early 70s, even if they didn’t make it to Cooperstown.
About 1150 total copies have been graded by PSA, with just 20 PSA 9s and no known PSA 10s. The gray borders of the 1970 Topps set are notoriously condition-sensitive, often revealing even the slightest edge wear or chipping.
Collector Insight
This dual-player rookie card doesn’t get the same spotlight as Munson’s, but it’s an excellent piece of 1970s baseball history. Gene Tenace also had a highly respectable career, including a standout World Series performance in 1972.
Investment Outlook
This card is a classic high-scarcity, low-attention play. The PSA 9 population is razor-thin, and even lower-grade examples are trending up as more collectors look to complete their 1970 Topps rookie collections. While Hall of Fame enshrinement isn’t likely, the card’s condition scarcity makes it a worthy long-term hold.
12. 1974 Topps Dave Winfield Rookie Card #456
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,500
PSA 9 Population: ~480
Total PSA Graded: ~10,000
Dave Winfield was one of the most complete athletes ever to play the game — a 12-time All-Star, 7-time Gold Glove winner, and 6-time Silver Slugger who finished his Hall of Fame career with over 3,000 hits and 465 home runs. He’s also one of only a few players drafted by four professional leagues (MLB, NBA, ABA, and NFL).
Winfield’s 1974 Topps rookie card is a vintage Hall of Fame collection staple. The clean, simple design of the ’74 set allows the photo of a young, confident Winfield in his Padres uniform to stand out. It’s the most desirable rookie card from the set and one of the decade’s most iconic.
Of the roughly 10,000 PSA-graded copies, about 680 have earned a PSA 9 grade. Those mint copies sell for $1,500 at auction, though values can trend higher for well-centered examples.
Collector Insight
Centering is the main issue with this card — left-to-right misalignment is common. If you’re hunting for raw copies or lower grades, focus on visual appeal and color strength.
Investment Outlook:
Winfield is one of the few 1970s rookies with cross-era collecting appeal. He is respected by vintage collectors and still admired by modern fans. PSA 9 copies offer solid long-term value, especially considering his broad legacy and relatively modest population compared to other HOF hitters from the decade.
13. 1972 Topps Carlton Fisk Rookie Card #79
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,500
PSA 9 Population: ~240
Total PSA Graded: ~9,000
Carlton Fisk is one of the most iconic catchers in baseball history — a Hall of Famer, 11-time All-Star, and a cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox franchises. While he spent significant time with both teams, Fisk is most remembered for his dramatic walk-off home run in the 1975 World Series and his gritty leadership behind the plate.
His 1972 Topps rookie card, shared with slugger Cecil Cooper, is one of the most recognizable cards of the decade. The retro, almost psychedelic design of the 1972 Topps set makes it stand out visually, while the card’s dual-rookie format adds historical interest.
Of the 9,000+ PSA-graded copies, about 240 have earned a PSA 9. Recent PSA 9 sales typically land between $1,500 and $2,000 at auction.
Collector Insight
The 1972 Topps set is known for centering issues and chipping along the edges, especially with the colorful borders. If you’re eyeing mid-grade copies, look closely at border wear and registration.
Investment Outlook
Fisk is one of the few Hall of Fame catchers with multi-generational name recognition, and this card remains a hobby staple. PSA 9s have held steady over time, and demand should remain strong, especially among Red Sox collectors and fans of 1970s baseball history.
14. 1978 Topps Paul Molitor/Trammell Rookie Card #707
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,400
PSA 9 Population: ~455
Total PSA Graded: ~10,000
It’s rare enough to get a Hall of Famer on a rookie card, but even rarer to get two. The 1978 Topps rookie card of Paul Molitor and Alan Trammell delivers precisely that.
Both Molitor and Trammell had long, productive careers. Molitor racked up 3,319 hits and a .306 batting average, while Trammell was a six-time All-Star, World Series MVP, and elite shortstop. The other two players on the card faded into obscurity, but the star power of Molitor and Trammell keeps this rookie in high demand.
Over 10,000 copies have been graded by PSA, and around 450 have earned a PSA 9. PSA 9 copies typically sell for $1,250 to $1,500, while PSA 7 and lower grades often go for under $100, offering great value for collectors on a budget.
Investment Outlook:
While it doesn’t have extreme scarcity, this card’s appeal lies in its dual-Hall-of-Famer status, affordability, and broad fan base. PSA 9s are solid mid-tier investments, and lower grades remain an excellent entry point for vintage collectors seeking bang for their buck.
15. 1978 Topps Eddie Murray Rookie Card #36
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1000
PSA 9 Population: ~710
Total PSA Graded: ~15,000+
Eddie Murray was one of his era’s most consistent and respected hitters — a seven-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove winner, and the 1977 AL Rookie of the Year. He’s one of only five players in MLB history with both 3,000 hits and 500 home runs, earning him first-ballot entry into the Hall of Fame.
His 1978 Topps rookie card is a collector favorite, known for its clean layout and the iconic ‘Topps All-Star Rookie’ trophy. PSA has graded over 15,000 copies, but just over 700 have received a PSA 9. Mint copies typically sell for $1,000 to $1,300, while lower grades (PSA 6–7) can be picked up for under $100, making it an accessible card across all budgets.
16. 1975 Topps Gary Carter Rookie Card #620
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,000
PSA 9 Population: ~240
Total PSA Graded: ~5,700
The 1975 Topps set is known for its bold, colorful design and for featuring some of the best four-player rookie cards of the 1970s. The Gary Carter rookie card is the most valuable.
Carter, nicknamed “The Kid,” was an 11-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove catcher, and key contributor to the Mets’ 1986 World Series championship. He’s widely considered one of the best catchers of his generation — and the only one from the ’75 set to reach the Hall of Fame.
While the card also features three lesser-known players, Carter’s prominence has kept it near the top of 1970s rookie card rankings. Fewer than 250 PSA 9s exist, and fewer than 20 PSA 10s have ever been graded, making high-grade examples particularly tough.
Collector Insight
The 1975 Topps set suffers from notoriously poor centering and print registration, especially on multi-player cards like this one. Eye appeal can vary dramatically across grades, so be selective when buying.
Investment Outlook
PSA 9 copies hover around $1,100, with plenty of upside given the low pop and Carter’s Hall of Fame legacy. Lower-grade copies (PSA 6–7) are affordable, often under $100, and make for a great entry-level buy for collectors chasing key Hall of Fame rookies from the 70s.
17. 1971 Topps Jim Rice Rookie Card #616
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1,000
PSA 9 Population: ~290
Total PSA Graded: ~3,500
Jim Rice was a fearsome hitter and longtime cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox. A career .298 hitter, 8-time All-Star, and 1978 AL MVP, Rice was one of the most dominant offensive players in the American League throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. He spent his 16-year career in Boston and remains one of the franchise’s most beloved stars.
His 1975 Topps rookie card is part of the iconic four-player card format, sharing space with three lesser-known players. It’s among the most valuable multi-player cards in the set, along with Gary Carter’s rookie.
PSA has graded around 3,500 copies, with just under 300 earning a PSA 9. A mint-condition PSA 9 example sells for around $1,000, while nice PSA 7 or raw copies can still be picked up for under $100.
Collector Insight
Centering is a common issue on Rice’s card, like many from the 1975 Topps release. Still, the bright red border and bold team name make it a visually striking card, especially when well-centered.
Investment Outlook
Rice doesn’t always get the hobby love he deserves, but PSA 9s remain relatively affordable considering his Hall of Fame career. With a moderate population and continued collector demand among Red Sox fans, this card has steady long-term appeal, especially in higher grades.
18. 1977 Topps Andre Dawson Rookie Card #473
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $900
PSA 9 Population: ~590
Total PSA Graded: ~6,500
Andre Dawson was known as “The Hawk” because of his ability to track down fly balls in the outfield. Dawson was an excellent defensive outfielder known for his strong arm, quick reactions, and excellent range.
He won eight Gold Glove awards during his career, which is given to the best defensive player at each position in each league. But Dawson wasn’t just an incredible outfielder; he had tremendous power and was considered one of the best sluggers of the 1980s.
Dawson’s 77 Topps rookie card is a popular choice among collectors building top rookie card sets from the 70s, but it was also produced in generous quantities. PSA has graded over 6,500 copies, nearly 600 at a PSA 9, and 58 earning a perfect Gem-Mint PSA 10 grade.
19. 1973 Topps Goose Gossage Rookie Card #174
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $700
PSA 9 Population: ~220
Total PSA Graded: ~3,500
“Goose” Gossage was a hard thrower and one of the first traditional closers in major league baseball. He was one of the most feared pitchers of his day, and averaged nearly eight strikeouts per 9 innings throughout his career.
His 1973 Topps rookie card is a must-have rookie card of the 1970s, and it’s very affordable. Lower to mid-grade copies can be snapped up for less than $50, although higher-grade copies in PSA 9 condition can run up to near $800 at auction.
20. 1974 Topps Dave Parker Rookie Card #252
Estimated PSA 9 Value: $1500
PSA 9 Population: ~240
Total PSA Graded: ~4000
Dave Parker, nicknamed “The Cobra,” was among the most feared hitters of the late 1970s and early 1980s. A two-time batting champion, 1978 NL MVP, and seven-time All-Star, Parker earned three Gold Gloves and helped power the Pirates and later the Reds with his thunderous bat and cannon arm.
After many years of exclusion, Parker was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2024.
His 1974 Topps rookie card is among the most affordable on this list, which has made it a popular target for collectors who want a piece of a potential future HOFer. With about 4,000 PSA-graded copies and around 240 PSA 9s, this card is widely accessible. PSA 9 copies hover around $1500, and PSA 7s can often be picked up for under $50.
📊 Summary of the Top 20 1970s Topps Rookie Cards (With Prices, PSA Pop)
| Year | Player | Card # | PSA 9 Value | PSA Pop 9 | Pop Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1973 | Mike Schmidt | 615 | $6,500 | 252 | 🟡 Med | Hall of Famer; most valuable 70s rookie |
| 1975 | George Brett | 228 | $5,500 | 330 | 🟢 High | Iconic card from colorful 1975 set |
| 1971 | Ted Simmons | 117 | $3,750 | 22 | 🔴 Low | HOF Catcher, Hard To Find in High Grade |
| 1975 | Robin Yount | 223 | $3,500 | 277 | 🟡 Med | Condition sensitive set; HOF shortstop |
| 1971 | Bert Blyleven | 26 | $3,500 | 20 | 🔴 Low | HOF pitcher; tough black-border rookie |
| 1971 | Dusty Baker | 709 | $3,000 | 10 | 🔴 Low | Double Duty – rookie of Baker and Don Baylor |
| 1979 | Ozzie Smith | 116 | $2,600 | 415 | 🟢 High | The Wizard; legendary glove at shortstop |
| 1970 | Thurman Munson | 189 | $2,500 | 88 | 🔴 Low | Beloved Yankees captain died way too soon, cutting short his career. |
| 1971 | Steve Garvey | 341 | $2,000 | 39 | 🔴 Low | Low pop due to black borders |
| 1976 | Dennis Eckersley | 98 | $1,700 | 188 | 🟡 Med | Low pop HOF closer card |
| 1974 | Dave Parker | 252 | $1,500 | 245 | 🟡 Med | Multiple-time batting champ |
| 1970 | Vida Blue | 21 | $1,500 | 20 | 🔴 Low | A’s Pitching Legend, Low Pop In High Grade |
| 1974 | Dave Winfield | 456 | $1,500 | 485 | 🟢 High | Hall of Fame slugger; undervalued in lower grades |
| 1972 | Carlton Fisk | 79 | $1,500 | 242 | 🟡 Med | HOF Catching Legend Red Sox/White Sox |
| 1978 | Molitor/Trammell | 707 | $1,200 | 455 | 🟢 High | Dual HOF RC of Molitor and Trammell |
| 1978 | Eddie Murray | 36 | $1,000 | 711 | 🟢 High | Classic rookie of the Orioles legend |
| 1975 | Gary Carter | 620 | $1,000 | 240 | 🟡 Med | Popular catcher; colorful 1975 design |
| 1975 | Jim Rice | 616 | $850 | 230 | 🟡 Med | Beloved Yankees captain died way too soon, cutting short his career. |
| 1977 | Andre Dawson | 473 | $400 | 600 | 🟢 High | HOF outfielder with power and speed |
| 1973 | Goose Gossage | 174 | $575 | 226 | 🟡 Med | Revolutionized the closer role |
