TOP 8 Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie & Cards
- Paul Seviner
- Jul 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 22
From a young age, Griffey flashed the kind of talent that makes collectors sit up and take notice—big swing, smooth as silk, and an influence that’s still ringing through the hobby. PSA has graded over 800,000 Griffey cards—more than any other player—and when a 1998 E-X 2001 Essential Credentials grade PSA 9 sold for a record $280,600 last May, it proved one thing: the hunger for Griffey keeps burning hot.
Before going through the list, we must first highlight the considered 'true' rookie card of Ken Griffey Jr., the 1989 Upper Deck Star Rookies #1. It undoubtedly holds iconic status in the card-collecting world and, despite its high availability, remains highly sought after.
This set was revolutionary, with glossy, high-quality photos. Griffey’s rookie shot, taken before his MLB debut with the Mariners’ Single-A team, became legendary. PSA 10s now push $3,000, but good deals are out there—lower grades still hold appeal.
Remember, when purchasing sports cards like Griffey's debut, it's wise to consider factors such as card condition, market trends, and timing—prices often drop in the offseason. While raw cards offer potential cost savings, they can be imperfect, making graded cards a safer bet for those seeking quality assurance and peace of mind, especially when buying online.
Here is our list, from the most affordable gems up to some high-end hits:
1989 Topps Traded Ken Giffrey Jr. # 41T — The inaugural Topps Traded Griffey remains accessible. Over 14,000 PSA 10s exist—best of all, you can find raw or minty examples under $25 on eBay. It’s a staple for any Griffey collection that’s budget-friendly.
1989 Fleer Ken Giffrey Jr. # 548 — While Fleer’s known for basketball, those baseball cards from the ‘80s hold a special nostalgic charm. Griffey’s Fleer rookie, with its fun, youthful vibe, still draws interest—PSA 10s sell around $150–$180. Perfect for fans of the junk wax era.
1989 Donruss Rated Rookie Ken Giffrey Jr. # 33 — Recognizable with its distinctive black and purple borders, the Donruss Rated Rookie isn’t as pristine but remains highly sought. With fewer PSA 10s (less than 2,300), recent sales hover in the $500 range.
1989 Bowman Tiffany Ken Giffrey Jr. # 220 — The crown jewel for Griffey high rollers. Limited as all get-out, with fewer than 200 Gem Mint 10s, this Tiffany set card is a true grail—sometimes fetching near $10,000. If you like rarity and prestige, this is it.
1989 Topps Traded Tiffany Ken Giffrey Jr. # 41T — This is the Tiffany version of the Topps Traded card mentioned above, but it features a premium glossy finish. A rare gem in Griffey’s rookie collection, there are fewer than 350 PSA 10s in existence. It has sold for a few thousand dollars, and even lower grades are not cheap, making it pure collector’s gold.
1994 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. & Mickey Mantle Autographed Portrait — For the ultimate fan, this autographed portrait is a timeless treasure. Recently, a dual autographs version was awarded as a reward from the M1NT Quest by Brian Pirrip, founder of M1NT. The card features either one of the legends' signatures or both together. Only 1,000 signed copies of each player exist, and prices are in the thousands. It’s a trophy for the serious collector.
1987 Bellingham Mariners Team Issue Ken Giffrey Jr. — Beat the rush, this tiny team-issued card features Griffey young and fresh. Ken Griffey Jr.’s first collectible card dates back to 1987, when he was a minor leaguer with the Bellingham Mariners. Featured in a 33-card team set, this card shows a young Griffey just out of high school, freshly posed in a fielder’s stance. Raw copies sell for $50 to $150, with unopened sets fetching $150–$200 on eBay. While MLB rookie cards from ’89 steal the spotlight today, this early card represents the start of Griffey’s ascent and remains rarer than his more famous flagship releases.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, these top 8 Griffey cards showcase the best of his legendary career. From iconic rookies to rare gems, each card tells a story of greatness and potential value. Happy hunting, and may your Griffey collection continue to grow! Disclosure: When you click or make a purchase through our links, we may earn a small percentage, which helps us maintain and improve our site.
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