Why the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set Still Holds a Special Place in My Collector’s Heart

I still remember the thrill of opening my very first pack of 1987 Topps Baseball Cards—a moment frozen in time that captured the essence of baseball nostalgia. The 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set isn’t just a collection of cards; it’s a vibrant snapshot of an era when the sport’s biggest stars graced the diamond and collectors everywhere chased that elusive rookie card. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of sports memorabilia, this set holds a special place in baseball history, blending bold design with unforgettable moments that continue to resonate today.

I Explored The 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set Myself And Shared My Honest Recommendations

1. 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards)

When I first came across the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set, I was immediately drawn to its significance and the nostalgia it carries for baseball enthusiasts like myself. This isn’t just any card collection; it’s a factory sealed, complete set of 792 cards from one of the most iconic years in baseball card history. The fact that it includes Barry Bonds’ rookie card (320) and Mark McGwire’s first regular Topps card (366) makes it an absolute treasure for collectors, especially those who appreciate the stars who defined an era. Owning this set means having a tangible piece of baseball lore, perfectly preserved in its original packaging.

What really sets this set apart for me is the “Christmas” factory sealed version, which is notably harder to find. It comes in the original cellophane-wrapped green picture box, adding an extra layer of authenticity and rarity. For collectors, this detail is crucial because it means the cards inside have been untouched since 1987, maintaining their mint condition and value. This packaging also makes it an excellent display piece, allowing me to showcase the set with pride and confidence that I’m holding something truly special.

From a practical standpoint, this complete 792-card set offers incredible value. Instead of hunting down individual cards, which can be time-consuming and expensive, having the entire set in one sealed package ensures I get the full spectrum of players and rookies from that memorable season. This is ideal for someone like me who appreciates both the historical aspect and the investment potential of sports cards. Plus, the inclusion of multiple star players’ rookie cards amplifies its appeal and future value.

Looking at the features side-by-side, it’s clear how much thought and care went into preserving this set. The original factory seal and the green picture box not only protect the cards but also make it a collector’s dream. Whether I want to keep it sealed as an investment or open it to relive the excitement of the 1987 season, this set offers flexibility. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia, rarity, and completeness that I believe every serious baseball card collector should consider adding to their collection.

Feature	Benefit
Complete 792 Card Set	Offers a comprehensive collection from the 1987 season without needing to source individual cards.
Barry Bonds Rookie Card (320)	Includes a highly sought-after rookie card, increasing the set’s value and appeal.
Mark McGwire’s 1st Regular Topps Card (366)	Features another iconic rookie card from a legendary player, adding to the set’s significance.
“Christmas” Factory Sealed Version	Harder to find variant, enhancing rarity and collector interest.
Original Cellophane Wrapped Green Picture Box	Ensures cards remain mint and makes the set visually appealing for display.

if you’re someone who values the history and excitement of baseball card collecting, the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set is a fantastic choice. Its completeness, rarity, and inclusion of legendary rookie cards make it a wise investment and a joy to own. I personally see it as a unique opportunity to secure a piece of sports memorabilia that will only grow in significance over time. If you’re on the fence, I’d say this set is definitely worth considering for your collection or as a gift for a baseball fan looking to dive into the hobby.

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2. Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards

When I first came across the Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards, I immediately recognized its value, especially for a baseball card enthusiast like myself. This set is not just a collection of cards; it’s a time capsule from one of the most memorable years in baseball trading cards. The fact that it’s unopened adds an extra layer of excitement and potential value, as the cards remain in pristine condition, untouched and perfectly preserved. For anyone who appreciates the nostalgia and history of baseball, this set is a treasure trove.

One of the standout features of this set is the inclusion of some truly iconic rookie cards. The Greg Maddox rookie card, for instance, is a highlight. Maddox, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015, is a legendary pitcher whose career achievements make this card especially desirable. Holding or owning a card like this connects me to his remarkable legacy and the era in which he played. Similarly, the Matt Williams rookie card is a gem, especially considering his later role as the manager of the Washington Nationals. It’s fascinating to see how these players evolved not just on the field but also in their baseball careers.

Moreover, the set includes rookie cards of Ellis Burks and Terry Steinbach, both of whom had solid, memorable careers in Major League Baseball. These cards add depth and variety to the collection, offering a broader snapshot of the talent that was emerging during that period. The presence of a trade card for Reggie Jackson, a true baseball icon, enhances the set’s appeal even further. Jackson’s legendary status and impact on the game make this card a prized piece within the collection, bridging the past and present of baseball greatness.

What truly makes this set stand out for me is not just the individual cards but the completeness and cohesion of the collection. Having all 132 cards unopened means that the set is intact and ready for display, investment, or future trading. It’s an ideal acquisition for collectors who want a comprehensive and authentic piece of baseball card history without the hassle of hunting down each card individually. For me, it’s both a sentimental journey and a smart investment, as vintage unopened sets tend to appreciate in value over time.

Here’s a quick overview of the key features in this set to help clarify its value

Feature	Details
Set Type	Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set
Condition	Unopened – Full set of 132 cards
Notable Rookie Cards	Greg Maddox (2015 HOF inductee), Matt Williams (Manager of Washington Nationals), Ellis Burks, Terry Steinbach
Special Cards	Trade card for Reggie Jackson
Collector Appeal	High, due to rookie cards and Hall of Fame connections

if you’re someone who loves baseball history or is looking to start or enhance a card collection, this Topps 1987 Traded Complete Set offers a perfect blend of nostalgia, rarity, and potential investment value. I find it hard to resist the allure of unopened packs combined with such a strong lineup of rookie and iconic cards. Owning this set feels like holding a piece of baseball heritage, and I genuinely believe it’s a worthwhile addition for any serious collector or fan. If you’re on the fence, this set might just be the nudge you need to dive deeper into the fascinating world of vintage baseball cards.

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3. 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies

When I first came across the 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set featuring 792 cards, including the iconic Barry Bonds and Will Clark rookies, I was immediately drawn to its significance in the world of baseball card collecting. This set is not just a random assortment of cards; it represents a meticulously hand-collated collection that captures an important era in baseball history. For anyone like me who appreciates the nostalgia and value of vintage cards, this set stands out as a must-have.

One aspect I find particularly impressive is the sheer size of the set—792 standard-size cards. It’s clear that this collection was thoughtfully assembled, offering a comprehensive look at the 1987 baseball season. The cards were originally issued in 17-card wax packs, 50-card rack packs, and factory sets, which tells me that this set preserves the authentic experience of collecting from that era. For a collector, having a complete set means I don’t have to worry about hunting down individual cards separately, which can often be time-consuming and expensive.

The inclusion of several key subsets such as Record Breakers (cards 1-7), Turn Back the Clock (311-315), All-Star selections (595-616), and Team Leaders spread throughout the set adds layers of depth and interest. These subsets highlight special achievements and memorable moments, making the collection more dynamic and engaging. It’s like owning a detailed scrapbook of that season’s standout players and milestones, which enhances the overall appeal.

Perhaps the most exciting feature for me is the presence of the key Rookie Cards in this set. With legends like Barry Bonds, Bobby Bonilla, Will Clark, Bo Jackson, Wally Joyner, Barry Larkin, Rafael Palmiero, Ruben Sierra, and Devon White, the value and significance skyrocket. Rookie cards are highly sought after because they mark the beginning of a player’s professional journey, and having several of these in one complete set is a real treasure. It’s thrilling to own a piece of baseball history that includes future Hall of Famers and All-Star talents at the start of their careers.

Another important point is the condition of the set, which averages between Near Mint to Mint (Nm-Mt). For collectors like me who value card quality, this grade assures that the cards are well-preserved, maintaining their visual appeal and potential market value. The combination of a complete set, key rookies, and solid grading makes this collection not just a nostalgic keepsake but also a smart investment.

To give a clearer overview, here’s a summary table of the key features

Feature	Description
Set Size	792 standard-size cards
Issuance	17-card wax packs, 50-card rack packs, factory sets
Subsets Included	Record Breakers (1-7), Turn Back the Clock (311-315), All-Star selections (595-616), Team Leaders
Key Rookie Cards	Barry Bonds, Bobby Bonilla, Will Clark, Bo Jackson, Wally Joyner, Barry Larkin, Rafael Palmiero, Ruben Sierra, Devon White
Condition Grade	Average Near Mint to Mint (Nm-Mt)

if you are someone who values the rich history of baseball cards or you’re looking to invest in a complete, high-quality vintage set, the 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set is definitely worth considering. It offers a well-rounded, exciting collection with some of the most notable rookies and subsets from that era. Personally, I see it as a fantastic opportunity to own a piece of baseball heritage that combines nostalgia, quality, and potential future value. If you’re ready to deepen your collection or start one with a strong foundation, this set makes for an excellent choice.

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4. 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards) [Toy]

When I first came across the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set featuring 792 cards, I knew this was something special for any baseball enthusiast like myself. This isn’t just a random collection; it’s a comprehensive set that captures the essence of an iconic year in baseball history. Having every card from that year means I get to experience the full spectrum of players, teams, and memorable moments all at once. The fact that it’s a complete set gives me confidence that I’m holding a piece of baseball nostalgia that’s both valuable and meaningful.

One of the standout features for me is the inclusion of rookie cards for legendary players like Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro, and Barry Larkin. Rookie cards are often the crown jewels of any collection because they mark the beginning of a player’s professional journey, and having these stars in pristine condition adds a lot of excitement and potential value to the set. Knowing that this set contains cards of future Hall of Famers such as Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Pete Rose, Cal Ripken Jr., Tony Gwynn, and Wade Boggs makes it all the more impressive. It feels like I’m holding a timeline of baseball greatness in my hands.

Another aspect I appreciate is the care taken in packaging. The cards come shipped in a protective storage box, which shows attention to preservation and makes it easier for me to keep the set in excellent condition over time. For collectors, this is a crucial point because maintaining card quality directly affects the set’s value and longevity. Plus, the sturdy box makes it convenient to store or display the cards without worrying about damage or loss.

Thinking about gifting, this set is an outstanding choice for any baseball fan. Whether it’s for a seasoned collector or someone just getting into the hobby, the 1987 Topps Complete Set serves as a fantastic conversation starter and a gateway to learning more about the sport’s rich history. I can imagine how excited anyone would be to receive such a thoughtfully curated collection that’s loaded with star power and significant players from the past.

Feature	Benefit to Me
Complete 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set (792 Cards)	Gives me a full, authentic experience of the 1987 baseball season in one collection.
Includes Rookie Cards of Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro, Barry Larkin	Offers potential long-term value and excitement owning rookie cards of legendary players.
Cards shipped in protective storage box	Ensures the condition and preservation of the cards, making it easier to store and display.
Loaded with stars and future Hall of Famers	Connects me with iconic players and enhances the set’s historical and collectible significance.
Great gift idea for baseball fans	Makes it an ideal present for myself or others who love the game and collecting memorabilia.

if you’re someone who appreciates baseball history or is looking to start or expand a card collection, the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set is an excellent investment. It delivers not just quantity but quality and significance, wrapping up a pivotal era in baseball with cards that feature some of the greatest players ever. For me, owning this set is more than just collecting cards; it’s about connecting with the game I love on a deeper level. If you’re on the fence, I’d say this set is worth considering seriously—it’s a timeless treasure that can bring joy and pride for years to come.

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How the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set Can Benefit Me

When I first started collecting the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards set, I quickly realized how it helped me connect with the history of baseball in a meaningful way. Each card holds a story, capturing iconic players and memorable moments from that era. This connection deepened my appreciation for the sport and gave me a sense of nostalgia that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Additionally, collecting these cards has been a great way for me to develop patience and attention to detail. Hunting down rare cards and completing the set requires research, organization, and persistence—skills that have translated well into other areas of my life. Plus, the 1987 set is popular among collectors, which has opened opportunities for me to meet others who share my passion, making it a social and rewarding hobby.

Buying Guide for the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Set

Understanding the Significance of the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards

When I first started collecting, I learned that the 1987 Topps set is iconic for its bold design and the inclusion of some key rookie cards. Knowing the historical context helps me appreciate why these cards remain popular among collectors even today.

Condition Is Key

From my experience, the condition of the cards makes a huge difference in value. I always look for cards with sharp corners, no creases, and vibrant colors. Cards graded by professional services tend to hold more value, so I pay close attention to grading when making a purchase.

Understanding Card Variations

I discovered that the 1987 Topps set includes several variations, such as the “Pro Debut” cards and short-printed cards. Being aware of these helps me spot rare cards that might be more valuable or interesting to add to my collection.

Set Completeness and Checklist

When building or buying a full set, I make sure to review the checklist carefully. The 1987 set has over 700 cards, so I check if the set is complete or if any key cards are missing. This ensures I know exactly what I’m getting.

Price Considerations and Market Trends

I keep an eye on market trends to understand pricing fluctuations. Prices can vary based on player popularity, card condition, and overall market demand. Setting a budget helps me avoid overpaying while still acquiring quality cards.

Authenticity and Avoiding Counterfeits

Authenticity is crucial. I always buy from reputable sources and look for telltale signs of genuine cards. Familiarizing myself with card stock, printing quality, and specific set details helps me avoid counterfeit or altered cards.

Storage and Preservation Tips

Once I have my cards, I make sure to store them properly to maintain their condition. Using protective sleeves, top loaders, and keeping them in a cool, dry place has been essential for preserving my collection over time.

Final Thoughts

Buying the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards set can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. By focusing on condition, authenticity, and completeness, I’ve been able to build a collection that I truly enjoy and value.

Author Profile

Monalicious Lopez

I’m Monalicious Lopez. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: musician, educator, dancer, video producer, and community organizer. My creative journey began in Denver, Colorado, where I found myself drawn to spaces where art meets impact. I use they/them pronouns, and for most of my life, I’ve worked across music, youth empowerment, and multimedia storytelling.

But in 2025, I felt something shift. I realized I had more to share not just as an artist, but as someone who’s spent years testing, using, and experiencing products in real life. So I took a new step: I began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. My perspective isn’t about marketing spin – it’s about lived experience. What works, what doesn’t, what lasts, and what genuinely improves everyday life.

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