Most Valuable 1989 Donruss Baseball Cards (With PSA 10 Prices)
The 1989 Donruss baseball card set is often remembered as part of the overproduced "junk wax" era. But for collectors, certain cards from this release continue to carry both sentimental and monetary value—especially in pristine PSA 10 condition. Despite the set's abundance, high-grade examples of key rookie cards and legendary players remain highly desirable.
Below are the most valuable cards from the 1989 Donruss set, along with their estimated PSA 10 values and why they matter to collectors today.
1. Ken Griffey Jr. #33 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $400–$600
Significance: One of the most iconic rookie cards of the late 1980s, this card launched the cardboard legacy of "The Kid." Ken Griffey Jr.'s swing, smile, and Hall of Fame career made him a generation-defining player. Its black-bordered design is prone to chipping, making PSA 10s especially rare.
2. Ryne Sandberg #105
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $120–$160
Significance: A cornerstone of the Cubs in the '80s and early '90s, Sandberg’s combination of power and Gold Glove defense made him one of the game’s elite second basemen.
3. Kirk Gibson #132
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $100
Significance: Immortalized by his dramatic pinch-hit World Series homer in 1988, Gibson's toughness and clutch legacy make this card a nostalgic fan favorite.
4. Nolan Ryan #154
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $70–$100
Significance: Ryan is a legend—holding the all-time strikeout record and throwing seven no-hitters. This card, featuring him with the Texas Rangers, is a collector favorite that highlights his career longevity and dominance.
5. Mark Grace #255
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $70–$80
Significance: Grace led the 1990s in hits and was a model of consistency at first base. A Cubs icon, his cards remain popular with collectors in Chicago and beyond.
6. Darryl Strawberry #147
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $60–$70
Significance: A towering slugger with enormous potential, Strawberry’s stardom in the 1980s made him a hobby darling—despite an up-and-down career.
7. Randy Johnson #42 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $60
Significance: "The Big Unit" was one of the most feared pitchers of all time. This rookie card captures Johnson in the early stages of his incredible career, which included over 4,800 strikeouts and five Cy Young Awards.
8. Bo Jackson #208
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $50–$60
Significance: A two-sport marvel, Bo Jackson was a cultural icon. His raw power, speed, and highlight-reel moments made him a fan favorite, and this card captures him during the peak of his baseball fame.
9. Rickey Henderson #245
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $50
Significance: The greatest leadoff hitter of all time. Henderson’s speed, swagger, and record-breaking stolen base totals make any of his cards a hot commodity—especially in top grade.
10. Curt Schilling #635 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $40–$50
Significance: Schilling was a postseason ace who delivered in some of the game’s biggest moments, including helping break the Red Sox's championship curse in 2004. His rookie card has gained appreciation in recent years.
11. Mike Schmidt #193
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35–$50
12. Greg Maddux #373
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35–$45
13. Craig Biggio #561 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $30–$45
14. John Smoltz #642 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35–$40
15. Jose Canseco #643
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35–$40
16. Don Mattingly #74
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35
17. Dale Murphy #104
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35
18. Jose Canseco #91
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $35
19. Gary Sheffield #31 (Rookie)
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $30–$35
20. Tony Gwynn #128
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $30–$35
21. George Brett #204
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $25–$35
22. Kirby Puckett #182
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $30
23. Cal Ripken Jr. #51
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $25
24. Barry Bonds #92
Estimated PSA 10 Value: $20–$30
Final Thoughts
While the 1989 Donruss set was heavily printed, these cards prove that scarcity in condition and player significance still drive value. For collectors looking to invest in pieces of baseball history, PSA 10 versions of these cards remain worthy targets. Whether it’s the allure of a Griffey rookie or the dominance of a Randy Johnson, this set still offers nostalgic and financial value—especially when slabbed in gem mint condition.