Ken Griffey Jr.
Baseball (Upper Deck) • 1989 Upper Deck Star Rookie
Card Type
Star Rookie Card
Set & Number
1989 Upper Deck Star Rookie - 1
Rarity
Base (Star Rookie Subset)
Edition & Language
Standard / High-Print Run Junk Wax Era • English
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Grade
Moderately Played (MP) / Built-in Scratching
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $40.00 | PSA 10: $1,500+ | PSA 8: $75.00 - $100.00
Recent Sales
Raw copies in average condition consistently sell for $30-$50. High-grade (PSA 9/10) examples fluctuate significantly based on auction timing.
Condition Details
The image shows significant surface scratching across the face of the card, particularly over the player's nose and mouth. The edges show minor chipping and corner softening. Top-to-bottom centering appears slightly shifted toward the bottom.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading in its current state. The visible surface scratches and edge wear would likely result in a grade of 5 or 6, where the grading fees would outweigh the value increase.
Card Description
Features a portrait of Ken Griffey Jr. in a Seattle Mariners uniform with a blue cap and gold 'S'. A 'Star Rookie' logo is positioned in the bottom right corner above the name.
Notable Features
This is arguably the most iconic baseball card of the 1980s. A notable feature to check for is the hologram on the back; original print runs have a specific 'diamond' hologram pattern.
Authentication Notes
Due to high value in Gem Mint condition, this card is heavily counterfeited. Authentic cards have a crisp Upper Deck logo in the corner and a distinct hologram on the reverse. The card shown appears authentic but heavily worn.
Scanned: 2026-07-11T04:32:43.242461