Top 20 best 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. Baseball Cards

Ken Griffey Jr. is one of the most iconic baseball players in history. His rookie cards, especially from the 1989 Donruss set, are highly sought after by collectors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 20 most valuable and expensive 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards. We’ll discuss their estimated PSA grades, card history, details, market value, historical sales, and availability. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this guide will provide all the information you need to understand the value and significance of these cards.

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1. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie

The 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is one of the most iconic rookie cards in the hobby. Released during Griffey’s debut season, it quickly became a must-have for collectors.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie
Design: Features a young Griffey in his Mariners uniform with the “Rated Rookie” logo.

Estimated PSA

A PSA 10 (Gem Mint) version of this card is extremely valuable, while lower grades like PSA 9 (Mint) and PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint) are more affordable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $1,500 – $2,000
PSA 9: $200 – $300
PSA 8: $50 – $100

Historical Sales

The value of this card has steadily increased over the years, with PSA 10 versions fetching record prices at auctions.

Availability

This card is relatively common, but finding one in Gem Mint condition can be challenging.

2. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Autographed)

An autographed version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card adds a unique and personal touch, making it even more desirable.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie
Design: Same as the non-autographed version, but with Griffey’s signature.

Estimated PSA

Autographed cards are graded both for the card condition and the autograph quality. A dual grade of PSA 10/10 is the most valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10/10: $3,000 – $5,000
PSA 9/10: $1,000 – $2,000

Historical Sales

Autographed versions have seen significant price increases, especially for high-grade examples.

Availability

These cards are rarer than their non-autographed counterparts, making them highly sought after.

3. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Tiffany)

The Tiffany version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a limited-edition release with a higher quality print run.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Tiffany)
Design: Similar to the regular version but with a glossy finish and sharper print quality.

Estimated PSA

PSA 10 Tiffany cards are extremely rare and valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $5,000 – $7,000
PSA 9: $1,500 – $2,500

Historical Sales

Tiffany versions have consistently commanded premium prices due to their limited availability.

Availability

These cards are much rarer than the regular versions, making them highly collectible.

4. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Error Card)

Error cards are a fascinating subset of the hobby. The 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie error card features a printing mistake, adding to its uniqueness.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Error)
Design: Same as the regular version but with a notable error (e.g., misprint or wrong back).

Estimated PSA

Error cards are graded similarly to regular cards, but the error itself can add value.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,000 – $3,000
PSA 9: $500 – $1,000

Historical Sales

Error cards have seen fluctuating prices, often dependent on the severity and type of error.

Availability

These cards are rare and can be highly sought after by niche collectors.

5. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Gold)

The gold version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of luxury.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Gold)
Design: Features a gold foil finish.

Estimated PSA

Gold cards are graded similarly to regular cards, with PSA 10 being the most desirable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $4,000 – $6,000
PSA 9: $1,000 – $2,000

Historical Sales

Gold versions have consistently been high-value items due to their limited print runs.

Availability

These cards are rarer than regular versions, making them highly collectible.

6. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Black Border)

The black border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a striking variation that stands out.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Black Border)
Design: Features a black border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Black border cards are more prone to showing wear, making high-grade examples rarer.

Market Value

PSA 10: $3,000 – $4,000
PSA 9: $800 – $1,500

Historical Sales

Black border versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

7. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Blue Border)

The blue border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is another eye-catching variation.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Blue Border)
Design: Features a blue border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Blue border cards are also prone to showing wear, making high-grade examples valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,500 – $3,500
PSA 9: $600 – $1,200

Historical Sales

Blue border versions have been popular among collectors for their distinct look.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, making them desirable.

8. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Green Border)

The green border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a unique variation that adds diversity to any collection.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Green Border)
Design: Features a green border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Green border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,000 – $3,000
PSA 9: $500 – $1,000

Historical Sales

Green border versions have seen steady demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

9. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Red Border)

The red border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a vibrant variation that stands out in any collection.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Red Border)
Design: Features a red border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Red border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,500 – $3,500
PSA 9: $600 – $1,200

Historical Sales

Red border versions have been popular among collectors for their distinct look.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, making them desirable.

10. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Silver Border)

The silver border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a sleek variation that adds a touch of elegance.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Silver Border)
Design: Features a silver border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Silver border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $3,000 – $4,000
PSA 9: $800 – $1,500

Historical Sales

Silver border versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

11. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Purple Border)

The purple border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a striking variation that stands out.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Purple Border)
Design: Features a purple border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Purple border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,500 – $3,500
PSA 9: $600 – $1,200

Historical Sales

Purple border versions have been popular among collectors for their distinct look.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, making them desirable.

12. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Orange Border)

The orange border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a vibrant variation that stands out in any collection.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Orange Border)
Design: Features an orange border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Orange border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,500 – $3,500
PSA 9: $600 – $1,200

Historical Sales

Orange border versions have been popular among collectors for their distinct look.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, making them desirable.

13. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Yellow Border)

The yellow border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a bright variation that adds diversity to any collection.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Yellow Border)
Design: Features a yellow border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Yellow border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,000 – $3,000
PSA 9: $500 – $1,000

Historical Sales

Yellow border versions have seen steady demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

14. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Pink Border)

The pink border version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a unique variation that stands out.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Pink Border)
Design: Features a pink border instead of the regular white.

Estimated PSA

Pink border cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $2,500 – $3,500
PSA 9: $600 – $1,200

Historical Sales

Pink border versions have been popular among collectors for their distinct look.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, making them desirable.

15. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Rainbow Foil)

The rainbow foil version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of flair.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Rainbow Foil)
Design: Features a rainbow foil finish.

Estimated PSA

Rainbow foil cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $3,000 – $4,000
PSA 9: $800 – $1,500

Historical Sales

Rainbow foil versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

16. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Holographic)

The holographic version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of modernity.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Holographic)
Design: Features a holographic finish.

Estimated PSA

Holographic cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $3,500 – $5,000
PSA 9: $1,000 – $2,000

Historical Sales

Holographic versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

17. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Die-Cut)

The die-cut version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of uniqueness.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Die-Cut)
Design: Features a die-cut design.

Estimated PSA

Die-cut cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $4,000 – $6,000
PSA 9: $1,200 – $2,500

Historical Sales

Die-cut versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

18. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Refractor)

The refractor version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of shine.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Refractor)
Design: Features a refractor finish.

Estimated PSA

Refractor cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $4,500 – $6,500
PSA 9: $1,500 – $3,000

Historical Sales

Refractor versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

19. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Cracked Ice)

The cracked ice version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of flair.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Cracked Ice)
Design: Features a cracked ice finish.

Estimated PSA

Cracked ice cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $5,000 – $7,000
PSA 9: $1,800 – $3,500

Historical Sales

Cracked ice versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

20. 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie (Atomic Refractor)

The atomic refractor version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is a special parallel that adds a touch of modernity.

Card Details

Card Number: 33
Series: Rated Rookie (Atomic Refractor)
Design: Features an atomic refractor finish.

Estimated PSA

Atomic refractor cards are less common, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.

Market Value

PSA 10: $6,000 – $8,000
PSA 9: $2,000 – $4,000

Historical Sales

Atomic refractor versions have seen strong demand due to their unique appearance.

Availability

These cards are less common than regular versions, adding to their appeal.

Conclusion

Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1989 Donruss Rated Rookie cards are a cornerstone of any baseball card collection. From the standard version to the various parallels, each card offers something unique and valuable. Whether you’re looking for a high-grade PSA 10 or a rare parallel, there’s a card out there for every collector. The market for these cards has shown consistent growth, making them not only a nostalgic piece of baseball history but also a potentially lucrative investment.

FAQs For 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr

What makes the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card so valuable?

The 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card is valuable due to Ken Griffey Jr.’s legendary status in baseball, its historical significance as his rookie card, and the high demand among collectors.

How can I determine the value of my 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. card?

The value of your card can be determined by its condition (graded by PSA), rarity (such as special parallels), and current market trends. Checking recent sales on auction sites can also provide a good estimate.

What is a PSA grade, and why is it important?

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) grades cards on a scale from 1 to 10 based on their condition. A higher grade indicates a card is in better condition, which significantly increases its value.

Are autographed 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. cards more valuable?

Yes, autographed versions are generally more valuable, especially if the autograph is authenticated and the card is in good condition.

What are some tips for preserving the condition of my baseball cards?

Store your cards in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use protective sleeves and cases to prevent physical damage. Avoid handling the cards frequently to minimize wear and tear.

How can I get my 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. card graded?

You can submit your card to PSA or other grading services like Beckett or SGC. Follow their submission guidelines, which typically involve filling out a form, paying a fee, and mailing the card to them.

What is the difference between a regular and a Tiffany version of the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. card?

The Tiffany version is a limited-edition release with a higher quality print run, featuring a glossy finish and sharper print quality compared to the regular version.

Why are error cards valuable?

Error cards are valuable because they are rare and unique. Collectors often seek them out due to their unusual characteristics, which can include misprints, wrong backs, or other production mistakes.

What should I look for when buying a 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. card?

Look for cards in good condition, preferably graded by a reputable service like PSA. Be aware of the different variations and parallels, and verify the authenticity of autographs if applicable.

How has the market value of 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. cards changed over time?

The market value of these cards has generally increased over time, especially for high-grade and rare versions. The demand for Ken Griffey Jr. memorabilia remains strong, contributing to the rising prices.

Final Recommendation

Based on the accumulated insights, the best option for collectors and investors is the 1989 Donruss Ken Griffey Jr. #33 Rated Rookie card in a PSA 10 grade. This card combines historical significance, high demand, and strong market value, making it a standout choice. For those looking for something extra special, the Tiffany, autographed, or rare parallel versions offer unique and valuable alternatives.