The Most Valuable 1982 Topps Baseball Cards: PSA 10 Prices and the Significance of Each Card
The 1982 Topps baseball card set is a treasure trove for collectors, featuring some of the most iconic cards and legendary players from the golden era of baseball. As the hobby continues to thrive, certain cards within this set have risen in value, especially those graded in pristine PSA 10 condition. In this article, we delve into the most valuable cards from the 1982 Topps set, exploring the estimated PSA 10 values and the significance of each card.
1. Reggie Jackson #300
Most Recent PSA 10 Sale: $3,350 (December, 2024)
Significance: This card captures Reggie Jackson during his final season with the New York Yankees, marking the end of his memorable stint in the Bronx. This card holds strong value as it represents a key transition point in Jackson’s storied career."
2. Lee Smith #452 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,800–$2,200
Significance: Lee Smith’s rookie card is a must-have for collectors, as he went on to become one of the most dominant closers in MLB history. With 478 career saves and induction into the Hall of Fame in 2019, this card captures the beginning of a legendary career.
3. Tom Seaver #30
Most Recent PSA 10 Sale: $2,100 (May, 2022)
Significance: As one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history, Tom Seaver’s 1982 Topps card continues to captivate collectors. Seaver’s legacy as a three-time Cy Young Award winner and Hall of Famer ensures this card’s enduring value.
4. Orioles Future Stars #21 (Bonner/Ripken/Schneider)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,600–$2,000
Significance: This card features the rookie appearance of Cal Ripken Jr., a future Hall of Famer who became the epitome of consistency and excellence. Although neither Bob Bonner nor Jeff Schneider had anywhere near the career that Ripken had, this trio is immortalized in one of the most iconic multi-player rookie cards of the era.
5. George Brett #200
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,200–$1,400
Significance: George Brett, a 13-time All-Star and a key figure in the Kansas City Royals’ history, is prominently featured in this card. A .305 career hitter with over 3,000 hits, Brett's card remains highly sought after by fans and collectors alike.
6. Rickey Henderson #610
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,200–$1,400
Significance: The 'Man of Steal' continues to captivate the collecting world with his speed and charisma. Henderson’s 1982 Topps card is a testament to his MVP-caliber season and his status as MLB’s all-time stolen base leader.
7. Nolan Ryan #90
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,100–$1,300
Significance: Nolan Ryan's 1982 Topps card is another iconic piece, showcasing the 'Ryan Express' during his remarkable career. With a career spanning 27 seasons and a record 5,714 strikeouts, Ryan’s cards remain evergreen in value and popularity.
8. Reggie Jackson #551
Most Recent PSA 10 Sale: $1,267.97 (August, 2023)
Significance: As Mr. October, Reggie Jackson’s flair for the dramatic and postseason heroics make his cards perennial favorites. This 1982 card highlights Jackson with the New York Yankees, maintaining strong value in the hobby.
9. Robin Yount #435
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $1,000
Significance: A two-time MVP and Hall of Famer, Robin Yount was a cornerstone of the Milwaukee Brewers’ lineup. His 1982 Topps card represents a pivotal point in his career as he led the Brewers to the World Series that year.
10. Ozzie Smith #95
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $800–$900
Significance: The 'Wizard of Oz' dazzled fans with his defensive brilliance and acrobatic plays at shortstop. Smith’s 1982 Topps card is a snapshot of his prime years, making it a coveted addition for any collection.
11. Johnny Bench #400
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $700–$850
12. Dale Murphy #668
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $800
13. Nolan Ryan #5
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $500–$650
14. Astros Leaders (Nolan Ryan) #66
Most Recent PSA 10 Sale: $581 (October, 2024)
15. Fernando Valenzuela #510
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $400
16. Pete Rose #780
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $400
17. Mike Schmidt #100
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $400
18. Carl Yastrzemski #650
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $250–$400
19. Eddie Murray #390
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $350
20. Willie Stargell #715
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $350
21. Gary Carter #730
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $300–$350
22. Paul Molitor #195
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $250–$300
23. Alan Trammell #475
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $225–$275
24. Steve Garvey #179
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $200–$250
25. Stolen Base Leaders (T. Raines, R. Henderson) #164
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $175–$250
26. Pete Rose #4
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $200
27. Twins Future Stars (Faedo, Hrbek, Laudner) #766
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $200
28. Lou Whitaker #39
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $200
29. Dave Parker #40
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $200
30. Carlton Fisk #110
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $175–$200
31. A's Leaders (Rickey Henderson) #156
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $175–$200
32. Pete Rose #337
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $125–$175
33. Pete Rose (In Action) #781
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $150
34. Jim Palmer #80
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $125–$150
35. ERA Leaders (N. Ryan, S. McCatty) #167
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $125
36. Dave Stewart #213 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $100–$125
37. Mike Schmidt #339
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $100–$125
Final Thoughts
The 1982 Topps baseball set is a nostalgic time capsule filled with iconic Hall of Fame legends. From Cal Ripken Jr.’s debut to Reggie Jackson’s later-career appearances, these cards continue to captivate collectors, maintaining strong values in the PSA 10 grade. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a new hobbyist, the 1982 Topps set offers a wealth of historic gems that stand the test of time.
