The 1989 Fleer Baseball set consists of 660 standard-sized cards. It was distributed in wax packs, cello packs, rack packs, and factory sets. Fleer’s 1989 release is widely recognized for its sharp photography and clean design, but its market value centers around a small selection of highly sought-after cards. These cards gain value based on print defects, player legacy, and collector demand. While the majority of the set holds minimal monetary value, several specific issues are consistently graded, traded, and tracked.
What Makes a 1989 Fleer Card Valuable?
Print variations, rookies of Hall of Famers, and error cards are the primary drivers of value in the 1989 Fleer set. Cards with manufacturing errors corrected mid-print run tend to have both the error and corrected versions, each with their own niche demand. Player performance and Hall of Fame induction also play key roles in long-term value. PSA, BGS, and SGC graded cards, especially at a Gem Mint 10, hold premiums over raw cards.
50 Most Valuable 1989 Fleer Baseball Cards
1. Billy Ripken FF Error Card – $400 to $1,000
The 1989 Fleer Billy Ripken “FF” error card ranges in value from $400 to over $1,000 depending on condition and version. This card became infamous due to a vulgar phrase printed on the bat knob, which escaped Fleer’s quality control during initial distribution.
Several versions of this card exist. The original error shows the full obscenity and is the most valuable. Fleer released corrected editions with a black box, white out, and scribble to obscure the phrase. Each variant has its own market value, but the uncorrected error consistently commands the highest prices, particularly in PSA 9 or PSA 10 condition. It is not a rookie card and Ripken was not a star player, but its notoriety has turned it into a key collectible from the 1989 Fleer set.
The card’s appeal is driven by the combination of a printing mishap, rapid corrections, and media attention over the years. Despite not being tied to Ripken’s career performance, it remains a centerpiece in error card collecting circles. Unopened packs from 1989 Fleer still sell today primarily due to the chance of pulling this single card.
2. Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card – $100 to $600
The Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card from 1989 Fleer ranges between $100 and $600 depending on grading. It is one of several rookie cards of Griffey released that year, alongside those from Upper Deck and Donruss, but it is consistently among the most traded cards in the hobby.
Griffey’s early success, eventual Hall of Fame career, and broad popularity have kept demand for this card high. PSA 10 versions are limited and always command premium pricing. Compared to the more iconic 1989 Upper Deck version, the Fleer release has more modest design elements, but it’s appreciated for its clean look and balanced layout.
Collectors value this card not just for Griffey’s accomplishments but also because of its accessibility and consistency. It is a staple for collectors completing 1989 rookie sets or focusing on Hall of Fame players. The card has no variations or known print errors, which adds to its appeal as a stable long-term collectible.
3. Randy Johnson Marlboro Error – $75 to $350
The Randy Johnson Marlboro error card varies from $75 to $350 depending on version and grade. In this card, a Marlboro cigarette advertisement appears in the background, which Fleer later obscured in various print runs.
There are three primary variations: the original with a visible Marlboro sign, the partially obscured version, and the completely blacked-out version. The card with the visible ad is the most valuable, due to its rarity and legal sensitivities. Johnson’s Hall of Fame career also supports its market value, making it both a rookie card and an error card, a rare combination.
The Marlboro variant has grown in reputation due to the intersection of sports, corporate branding, and censorship. Few cards illustrate this dynamic as clearly. It remains highly sought after by both Johnson collectors and those focusing on card censorship and advertising history in the hobby.
4. Gary Sheffield Rookie Card – $15 to $90
Gary Sheffield’s 1989 Fleer rookie card holds a market value between $15 and $90. The price is primarily influenced by grading and whether the card is centered, as the Fleer print run suffered from alignment issues.
Sheffield had a long and productive MLB career, finishing with over 500 home runs. Although not in the Hall of Fame, he remains a prominent figure from his era. This card does not feature any errors or variations, but its simple design and clean headshot make it visually distinct within the set.
Collectors appreciate the card for its historical context. While it doesn’t achieve the heights of Griffey or Johnson rookies, it remains an affordable and meaningful addition to a 1989 rookie collection. High-grade versions, especially PSA 10, are harder to find due to centering problems.
5. Craig Biggio Rookie Card – $25 to $150
Craig Biggio’s rookie card in the 1989 Fleer set sells for between $25 and $150. As a Hall of Famer with over 3,000 hits, Biggio’s presence elevates this card beyond average rookies from the set.
The card features Biggio in catcher gear, highlighting his early MLB position before switching to second base. There are no known errors or variations for this card, and it maintains steady demand from Hall of Fame collectors and Astros fans alike.
High-grade copies remain the key to investment value. Fleer’s card stock and printing in 1989 were susceptible to edge wear and corner damage, making PSA 10 versions significantly more valuable. It’s not rare, but condition scarcity drives top-end pricing.
6. John Smoltz Rookie Card – $20 to $110
The John Smoltz rookie card in the 1989 Fleer set ranges from $20 to $110 depending on grade. Smoltz was a cornerstone of the Atlanta Braves rotation during the 1990s and later transitioned to a successful closer role.
As a Hall of Famer and Cy Young Award winner, Smoltz’s card benefits from a strong career resume. It does not have any notable print variations or errors, which means value is based strictly on condition and player significance.
Collectors focused on Braves history or Hall of Fame pitchers often include this card as part of core collections. While not as flashy as the Ripken or Johnson cards, it is consistently valued in the 1989 Fleer market.
7. Nolan Ryan Card – $10 to $90
The Nolan Ryan card in this set ranges from $10 to $90. It is not a rookie or an error card, but Ryan’s historic career and popularity keep his cards in demand across all sets and years.
Fleer featured Ryan during his time with the Houston Astros. The card showcases Ryan in mid-pitch, highlighting his durability and power even in the later stages of his career. Graded PSA 10 versions are harder to find and hold most of the value.
Collectors often pursue this card as part of full Ryan player runs or as a way to add affordable Hall of Fame content to their collections. The price remains stable and is supported by Ryan’s long-standing appeal among collectors.
8. Rickey Henderson Card – $5 to $60
Rickey Henderson’s 1989 Fleer card ranges from $5 to $60, with pricing influenced by centering and surface wear. Henderson was in his prime during this era and remains the all-time leader in stolen bases.
The card captures Henderson’s intensity and base-running posture, aligning well with his playing style. There are no errors or variations in this issue, but Henderson’s consistent popularity maintains interest in his cards across all sets.
While not a high-dollar card, this is a frequent inclusion in player collections and is often graded by enthusiasts seeking mint versions from the late 1980s. Henderson’s legacy helps even mid-tier cards retain moderate value.
9. Cal Ripken Jr. Card – $8 to $70
Cal Ripken Jr.’s 1989 Fleer card trades between $8 and $70. It features the Iron Man in a clean portrait-style photo and is one of several cards released that year featuring Ripken.
Though not rare, the card holds collector value due to Ripken’s consistent performance and popularity. High-grade examples, especially with strong centering, push into higher price ranges. There are no major print issues known for this card.
Collectors often seek this card as part of Ripken-focused collections or team sets from the Orioles. It’s one of the steadier performers in terms of long-term interest from fans and hobbyists alike.
10. Bo Jackson Card – $12 to $85
The 1989 Fleer Bo Jackson card ranges from $12 to $85 depending on condition. Jackson’s dual-sport fame continues to bolster interest in all of his cards from the late 1980s.
Fleer’s depiction shows Jackson in a focused batting pose, reflecting his explosive talent during his MLB prime. This card has no error versions, but suffers from typical 1989 Fleer issues like soft corners and poor centering.
The card benefits from Jackson’s continued cultural relevance. While not a rookie or particularly rare, it remains one of the more desired non-rookie cards in the set due to Jackson’s iconic status.
11. Barry Bonds Card – $10 to $65
Barry Bonds’ 1989 Fleer card is valued between $10 and $65, depending on condition and centering. It is not a rookie card, but Bonds was gaining attention as one of the league’s emerging stars.
The card features Bonds in his early Pittsburgh Pirates uniform. It does not include any print variations or errors. Demand stems primarily from Bonds’ status as the all-time home run leader, despite his Hall of Fame status being contentious due to PED allegations.
Collectors include this card in player-specific sets and late-’80s slugger runs. PSA 10 versions sell at the higher end of the price range, but mid-grade versions are abundant due to high production numbers.
12. Ozzie Smith Card – $5 to $50
Ozzie Smith’s card in the 1989 Fleer set ranges from $5 to $50. Known for his defensive excellence, Smith was already an established star by 1989.
The card captures Smith in a typical fielding stance, emphasizing his reputation as a Gold Glove shortstop. It has no known errors or rare versions, and its value is driven purely by player legacy and card condition.
Collectors who focus on Hall of Fame infielders or 1980s Cardinals memorabilia typically include this card. High grades remain relatively affordable due to stable supply.
13. Tony Gwynn Card – $5 to $45
Tony Gwynn’s 1989 Fleer card is valued between $5 and $45. The card presents Gwynn during the peak of his career, known for consistent batting averages and a contact-first approach.
The issue is clean, with no print variations or significant distribution anomalies. While not a rare card, Gwynn’s Hall of Fame status and iconic status among Padres fans maintain consistent interest.
Collectors seeking player runs or complete sets often target PSA 9 or 10 versions for investment or preservation. Ungraded versions are plentiful.
14. Wade Boggs Card – $5 to $40
The 1989 Fleer Wade Boggs card sells for $5 to $40 depending on grade. Boggs was among the best hitters in baseball at the time, known for his batting average and on-base skills.
This card is straightforward in design, showcasing a portrait shot without any error variants. Fleer’s print quality issues in 1989 make centered, sharp-cornered copies more difficult to find in top condition.
Boggs’ appeal continues due to his Hall of Fame career, and collectors value this card as part of broader late-’80s hitter collections.
15. Ryne Sandberg Card – $6 to $45
Ryne Sandberg’s card from the set trades between $6 and $45. Sandberg was a dominant second baseman for the Cubs and already had multiple All-Star selections by 1989.
The card shows Sandberg mid-swing and suffers from standard Fleer issues like centering and print marks. There are no error versions.
Collectors who focus on Cubs history or 1980s All-Stars typically include this card in PSA-graded form. It’s common in raw condition but more valuable when professionally preserved.
16. Don Mattingly Card – $5 to $50
Don Mattingly’s 1989 Fleer card typically sells between $5 and $50. Although not a Hall of Famer, Mattingly was extremely popular in the 1980s and remains a favorite among Yankees fans.
The card design is minimalistic and lacks any known errors or production anomalies. Its value is sustained by nostalgia and team-specific demand.
Collectors often include this card in Yankees-themed sets or 1980s All-Star rosters. PSA 10 examples sell at a premium due to condition rarity, not card scarcity.
17. Roger Clemens Card – $5 to $45
Roger Clemens’ card in this set ranges from $5 to $45. Despite not being in the Hall of Fame due to PED controversies, Clemens’ career statistics make him one of the most significant pitchers of the modern era.
The card features Clemens during his dominant years with the Red Sox. It has no variations or known misprints.
Collectors focused on dominant pitchers or Red Sox players include this in their rotation of late-’80s must-haves. Graded versions hold more long-term potential.
18. Jose Canseco Card – $5 to $40
Jose Canseco’s 1989 Fleer card is worth between $5 and $40. Canseco was coming off a 40-40 season, and his popularity was peaking at the time of release.
The card shows Canseco in an action pose with clean design and no notable errors. It is readily available in raw form.
Collectors interested in 1980s power hitters or the Oakland A’s championship teams often include this card, especially in PSA 9 or higher grades.
19. Mark McGwire Card – $5 to $45
Mark McGwire’s card is priced between $5 and $45. McGwire was establishing himself as a premier slugger by 1989, and this card reflects his early rise.
There are no errors or variations in this issue. High-quality examples with strong centering and sharp corners are more desirable due to typical print flaws.
Collectors focused on home run hitters or A’s legends often add this card to their sets, even with McGwire’s later controversies.
20. Rickey Henderson Team Leaders Card – $8 to $60
This card features Henderson as part of the Oakland A’s Team Leaders subset. Its value is boosted by Henderson’s central role and the team’s 1989 championship context.
The card sells for $8 to $60 depending on condition. It has no notable errors or variations.
Unlike his base card, this insert holds niche demand from collectors assembling complete subset or team sets. PSA 10 versions are less common due to subset print volumes.
21. Kirby Puckett Card – $5 to $40
Kirby Puckett’s 1989 Fleer card is valued between $5 and $40. By 1989, Puckett was already a World Series champion and a perennial All-Star.
The card design is consistent with Fleer’s 1989 layout, featuring Puckett in a batting stance. There are no errors or variations known for this issue.
Collectors value this card due to Puckett’s Hall of Fame status and short but impactful career. High-grade versions maintain value due to the difficulty in finding centered, clean copies from this print run.
22. Alan Trammell Card – $3 to $30
Alan Trammell’s card sells for $3 to $30. As a respected shortstop and later Hall of Famer, Trammell’s cards from this era remain relevant.
The 1989 Fleer issue is straightforward and lacks printing variations. Condition is the primary determinant of value.
Collectors of 1980s Tigers rosters or Hall of Fame infielders often include this card. While not rare, high-quality submissions in PSA slabs are modestly priced additions to player runs.
23. Dennis Eckersley Card – $4 to $35
Dennis Eckersley’s 1989 Fleer card is valued between $4 and $35. At the time, Eckersley was entering the most dominant phase of his relief pitching career with Oakland.
The card shows Eckersley in a mid-delivery pose. There are no notable production errors. His Hall of Fame induction and role in the A’s championship seasons support collector interest.
It holds strong appeal for those assembling Oakland A’s collections or focusing on Hall of Fame closers. The scarcity lies in PSA 10 examples due to edge and surface issues in Fleer’s 1989 stock.
24. Dwight Gooden Card – $4 to $35
Dwight “Doc” Gooden’s 1989 Fleer card ranges from $4 to $35. Though past his peak, Gooden remained a popular figure in baseball at the time.
The card presents Gooden in a pitching pose with no known variations. Its value is tied more to nostalgia and Mets team collecting than career achievements.
Collectors interested in the Mets’ 1980s era or former Rookie of the Year winners often include this card, though market demand is limited outside those circles.
25. Darryl Strawberry Card – $4 to $35
Darryl Strawberry’s card also ranges between $4 and $35. Like Gooden, his popularity was at its height in 1989 despite a career that would later decline.
The card features Strawberry in an offensive stance. It has no major print flaws or variations.
Collectors interested in 1980s Mets teams, or who focus on players who were culturally significant beyond the sport, often pursue Strawberry’s Fleer cards. PSA 10s are more collectible due to standard print issues like centering.
26. Tom Glavine Rookie Card – $10 to $60
Tom Glavine’s 1989 Fleer rookie card sells for $10 to $60. As a future Hall of Famer and key part of the Braves dynasty, Glavine’s rookie cards are important long-term holds.
This card is his Fleer rookie and features no variations. Grading significantly impacts price due to production flaws typical of the era.
Collectors interested in Hall of Fame pitchers or Braves history prioritize this card. It performs steadily in value but lacks the volatility of error or ultra-scarce rookies.
27. Harold Baines Card – $3 to $25
Harold Baines’ 1989 Fleer card is priced between $3 and $25. Baines’ Hall of Fame induction in 2019 elevated interest in his career cards, including mid-career issues like this one.
The card shows Baines in a hitting pose and lacks error variations. Its value is modest but stable.
Collectors of White Sox players or Hall of Fame inductees on the edge of eligibility often seek Baines’ cards. This issue remains widely available in raw condition.
28. Paul Molitor Card – $4 to $30
Paul Molitor’s card ranges from $4 to $30. Molitor was a respected hitter with a long, productive career that earned him a Hall of Fame spot.
The 1989 Fleer version captures his hitting stance without variation or known error. Demand comes from collectors of Brewers legends and all-time hitters.
PSA 9 and 10 examples are harder to source cleanly due to typical surface and edge issues from Fleer’s production. It is a common card elevated by player reputation.
29. Robin Yount Card – $4 to $30
Robin Yount’s card trades at $4 to $30 depending on condition. By 1989, Yount was a two-time MVP and established leader with the Milwaukee Brewers.
The design is consistent with the rest of the set, and no variants exist. His Hall of Fame status ensures long-term collector interest, especially among team-specific collections.
The card is typically found in good condition, but mint copies command premiums due to the difficulty of locating flawless examples from this print year.
30. Jack Morris Card – $3 to $25
Jack Morris’ 1989 Fleer card sells for $3 to $25. As a workhorse pitcher with multiple World Series championships, Morris was eventually inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018.
The card features a standard pose and has no notable print issues. Its market interest spiked briefly after Hall of Fame induction but has since stabilized.
Collectors of 1980s Tigers or postseason standouts often include Morris in their set lists. The card holds value mostly in graded condition.
31. Joe Carter Card – $3 to $20
Joe Carter’s 1989 Fleer card is priced between $3 and $20. Carter was a consistent power hitter during the late 1980s and early 1990s, though his most iconic moment came in the 1993 World Series.
This card depicts Carter during his Cleveland Indians tenure. It is a standard issue with no known errors or printing variations.
Collectors interested in World Series history or prominent 1980s sluggers often add this card, but it is not highly sought after outside specific niches. Graded mint examples maintain modest value.
32. Dave Winfield Card – $4 to $28
Dave Winfield’s Fleer card from 1989 trades between $4 and $28. Winfield was already a future Hall of Famer by this point, recognized for his power and longevity.
The card presents a typical action shot, free from variations or misprints. As a multi-decade All-Star, Winfield’s base cards retain consistent collector interest.
Collectors pursuing Yankees stars or building Hall of Fame sets typically include this issue. Condition remains the primary price factor.
33. Eddie Murray Card – $4 to $30
Eddie Murray’s card in this set is valued between $4 and $30. Murray’s switch-hitting ability and over 500 career home runs earned him Hall of Fame induction in 2003.
The 1989 Fleer card shows Murray with the Dodgers and has no known errors. It is widely available in ungraded form.
Collectors focused on power hitters or Hall of Fame first basemen often pursue this card in PSA 9 or PSA 10 grade. It holds consistent but modest value.
34. Andre Dawson Card – $4 to $30
Andre Dawson’s card from this set sells for $4 to $30. The 1987 NL MVP remained a major presence in the Cubs lineup in 1989.
The card image features Dawson at bat, with no known print errors. Like many in the set, it suffers from frequent centering issues.
Collectors pursuing Dawson player sets or 1980s Cubs stars frequently seek this card in high grade. Value increases substantially with PSA certification.
35. George Brett Card – $5 to $35
George Brett’s 1989 Fleer card ranges from $5 to $35. Brett was a lifelong Royal and already a batting champion across three decades by 1989.
The card is clean, featuring Brett in a hitting stance. It lacks printing errors, and supply remains strong.
Collectors value the card for Brett’s Hall of Fame career and historical significance. PSA 10 examples carry a noticeable premium due to condition scarcity, not card rarity.
36. Reggie Jackson Card (Yankees Heroes) – $10 to $50
Reggie Jackson appears in the special “Yankees Heroes” subset. This subset card sells for $10 to $50, higher than many base cards due to limited distribution.
It features Jackson in a retrospective design, celebrating his legacy with the Yankees. There are no error versions.
Collectors of subset themes or Yankees legends often target this card specifically, as it is one of the few tribute-style cards in the 1989 Fleer base release.
37. Carlton Fisk Card – $3 to $25
Carlton Fisk’s card from this set is priced at $3 to $25. By 1989, Fisk was already a veteran and known for one of the most memorable home runs in postseason history.
This card shows Fisk during his White Sox tenure. There are no error versions or alternate prints.
Collectors focused on catchers or long-tenured MLB veterans frequently include this card, with PSA-graded versions adding value based on preservation quality.
38. Tony Fernandez Card – $3 to $20
Tony Fernandez’s 1989 Fleer card sells between $3 and $20. A four-time Gold Glove winner, Fernandez was a respected shortstop during the late 1980s.
The card depicts Fernandez in a defensive pose. There are no known production errors.
Collectors interested in Blue Jays players or All-Star infielders from the era may include this card in themed sets, though general market demand remains limited.
39. Vince Coleman Card – $3 to $22
Vince Coleman’s card holds a value between $3 and $22. Known for his speed and base-stealing, Coleman was among the most disruptive leadoff hitters of his era.
The card features an action shot and contains no variations. Market demand is niche, tied to speed-focused player collections.
High-grade versions are less common due to Fleer’s print issues, making PSA 10s the only format with significant premium.
40. Ellis Burks Card – $3 to $20
Ellis Burks’ 1989 Fleer card is worth $3 to $20. Burks was considered a strong young outfielder at the time, with moderate long-term impact.
This is not a rookie card and features no print anomalies. It retains mild interest among Red Sox fans and those completing 1989 base sets.
Graded versions are inexpensive and mainly collected for condition-based completeness, not speculative value.
41. Mike Schmidt Card – $5 to $35
Mike Schmidt’s 1989 Fleer card is valued between $5 and $35. Although nearing retirement, Schmidt remained a respected Hall of Fame third baseman with over 500 home runs.
The card features Schmidt during his final playing years with the Phillies. It contains no known error or variant versions.
Collectors pursue this issue as part of Schmidt’s full career run. High-grade PSA examples hold most of the value, especially among those focused on Hall of Fame power hitters.
42. Bret Saberhagen Card – $3 to $20
Bret Saberhagen’s card trades between $3 and $20. He was a former Cy Young Award winner and remained a top-tier pitcher for the Royals in 1989.
This card shows Saberhagen in a pitching pose, with no variations or print defects. His cards do not command high premiums due to limited long-term popularity.
Collectors interested in Royals players or award winners may include it in themed sets, but broad demand is low.
43. Tim Raines Card – $4 to $30
Tim Raines’ 1989 Fleer card is priced at $4 to $30. Raines was an elite base stealer and on-base machine, eventually inducted into the Hall of Fame.
The card features Raines in his Expos uniform. It has no known production errors.
Collectors of Expos legends or focusing on underrepresented Hall of Famers often include this card. Value is condition-driven and consistent over time.
44. Harold Reynolds Card – $3 to $18
Harold Reynolds’ card ranges from $3 to $18. While never a superstar, Reynolds was a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner for the Mariners.
The card is straightforward in design and lacks print variations. It holds niche value among Mariners collectors.
Graded versions are rarely submitted, and the card’s value remains mostly tied to nostalgia and set completion.
45. Kevin McReynolds Card – $2 to $15
Kevin McReynolds’ 1989 Fleer card is valued between $2 and $15. As a solid contributor on the Mets, McReynolds had respectable seasons in the late ’80s.
The card is basic and free from variations. It is not a key investment card but serves as a filler for team or set completion.
Collectors rarely grade this issue, and raw versions are widely available.
46. Bobby Bonilla Card – $3 to $22
Bobby Bonilla’s card trades between $3 and $22. Despite average performance, Bonilla remains notable for his long-term deferred payments from the Mets.
The 1989 Fleer card is clean with no known print errors. It retains minor interest due to Bonilla’s financial legacy and team relevance.
Collectors with an interest in player contracts or Pittsburgh Pirates history occasionally target this card, especially in PSA 9 or 10.
47. Andy Van Slyke Card – $3 to $20
Andy Van Slyke’s card is valued at $3 to $20. A Gold Glove-winning outfielder, Van Slyke was a reliable player for the Pirates during the late 1980s.
This card features him in mid-action and contains no error versions. It has stable but limited demand.
Collectors seeking team completeness or focusing on outfield defense sometimes include this issue.
48. Mark Grace Card – $5 to $25
Mark Grace’s card trades between $5 and $25. Though not in the Hall of Fame, Grace led the 1990s in hits and remained a fan favorite for the Cubs.
The card depicts Grace in a batting stance and has no variations. It remains popular with Cubs collectors and fans of contact hitters.
High-grade copies carry mild premiums, particularly those in PSA 10 condition due to centering challenges.
49. Sid Fernandez Card – $2 to $15
Sid Fernandez’s 1989 Fleer card is valued at $2 to $15. A left-handed starter for the Mets, Fernandez was known for his strikeout ability and effectiveness at Shea Stadium.
There are no known errors or rare versions of this issue. It is mostly collected for set completion or team-based builds.
Market demand is low, and value is primarily condition-driven for this card.
50. Steve Sax Card – $3 to $18
Steve Sax’s card rounds out the top 50 with values between $3 and $18. Sax was a solid infielder and former Rookie of the Year.
The card design is clean and error-free. It holds minor value, largely driven by nostalgia and inclusion in Dodgers or Yankees-themed sets.
Collectors pursuing late-1980s All-Star rosters sometimes include this card in broader player collections.