The 1970s were a defining decade for baseball cards, as the industry transitioned from the post-war era into a more modernized hobby. This period was marked by simplicity in card design, with a focus on clear player imagery and basic layouts. The familiar look of 1970s baseball cards reflected the straightforward approach of the times. These sets often featuring full-color photographs and minimal graphics.
A major trend in the 1970s was the dominance of a single manufacturer, Topps. They held exclusive rights to produce licensed cards of Major League Baseball players. This monopoly meant that Topps sets became the definitive choice for collectors throughout the decade. The company experimented with different design elements, such as the inclusion of bold team names and unique color schemes. However, overall, the cards remained relatively consistent year to year.
Another significant aspect of 1970s baseball cards was their connection to the sport’s stars and rising talents. Rookie cards became more prominent during this decade, as collectors began recognizing the value of obtaining early cards of potential Hall of Famers. This trend made the 1970s a foundational era for many hobbyists looking to build their collections around key players.
10. 1971 Topps Bert Blyleven #26 (RC)
The 1971 Topps Bert Blyleven #26 (RC) is the official rookie card of Hall of Fame pitcher Bert Blyleven. He was known for his exceptional curveball and long-lasting impact on Major League Baseball, and is a Hall of Famer. This card is part of the 1971 Topps set, which is easily recognizable due to its black-bordered design. The black borders, while visually striking, are notoriously prone to chipping and edge wear. This makes high-grade examples of this card difficult to find and valuable to collectors. There is only one gem-mint 10 reported in PSA’s database, and it sold for a whopping $138,000. Prices in the hundreds and low thousands are more typical.
Blyleven had a remarkable 22-year career, during which he accumulated over 3,700 strikeouts and 287 wins. His rookie card captures him in the early stages of a career that would see him become one of the most dominant pitchers of his era. While the 1971 Topps set is well-known for its challenges in maintaining condition, it remains a favorite among vintage collectors. Blyleven’s rookie card is a key piece in any Hall of Fame collection.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $8-$10
Graded: $200-$600 (PSA 7-8)
9. 1977 Topps Mark Fidrych #265 (RC)
The 1977 Topps Mark Fidrych #265 (RC) captures the rookie card of one of the most colorful and capitvating players of the 1970s. Mark “The Bird” Fidrych burst onto the scene in 1976 with the Tigers and became a national sensation with his dominant pitching and quirky on-field behavior. (He was known for talking to the baseball and grooming the mound, among other antics.) His charismatic personality and stellar performance earned him the AL Rookie of the Year award and a place in the hearts of baseball fans.
The 1977 Topps set has a classic design and Fidrych’s card reflects his youthful exuberance. It shows him in his Tigers uniform during the peak of his popularity. Though injuries ultimately derailed his career, “The Bird” remains an iconic figure from the 1970s. His rookie card is a popular piece among collectors who remember his electrifying impact on the game.
Among the many Hall of Famers and rookies on this list, this is one of the more affordable 1970s baseball cards. Its appeal lies more in the nostalgia and the story of Fidrych’s brief but memorable career. High-grade examples can fetch a premium, particularly among collectors who focus on the quirky and unique characters of baseball history.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $4-$6
Graded: $100-$400 (PSA 8-9)
8. 1971 Topps Thurman Munson #5 (All-Star Rookie)
The 1971 Topps Thurman Munson #5 (All-Star Rookie) card is a standout piece in the iconic 1971 Topps set. It features the emerging New York Yankees star and future team captain, Thurman Munson.
Munson’s rookie card with in the 1970s Topps set, and he shared billing with fellow rookie Dave McDonald. But it’s the 1971 Topps card that shines. It’s significant for showcasing Munson as an All-Star Rookie, highlighting his impressive start in Major League Baseball after winning the 1970 AL Rookie of the Year award. The card shows Munson in a catching stance, reflecting the grit and leadership that defined his career.
Munson was known for his fierce competitiveness and clutch play. He became one of the most beloved Yankees of his era before his tragic death in 1979. His legacy as a leader and key figure in the Yankees’ resurgence during the 1970s makes this card a cherished item.
The 1971 Topps set is famous for its black-bordered design, but this makes it prone to wear and chipping. Therefore, collectors seek out very rare high-grade versions of this card. PSA has never recorded a gem-mint 10 in their database. PSA 9s – of which there are only a few in existence – have sold for between $50,000-$200,000. Like Blyleven earlier on the list, condition is key with this card.
Regardless of the grade, this card holds strong appeal for collectors interested in Munson’s career and legacy.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $10-$15
Graded: $1,000-$4000 (PSA 7-8)
7. 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt #615 (RC)
Many 1970s baseball cards featured dual- or triple-rookies, with Hall of Famers sharing the stage with players who never made it. That’s true here, too; regardless, the 1973 “Rookie Third Basemen” card is one of the most important rookie cards of the 1970s. It features the debut of Mike Schmidt, who shares the card with John Hilton (-2 WAR) and Ron Cey (53.7 WAR). Known for his incredible combination of power and defense, Schmidt won three MVP awards and hit over 500 home runs. He is widely considered one of the best third basemen of all-time.
The 1973 Topps set has a straightforward design. Unfortunately, this is yet another 1970s baseball card with condition issues. The scarcity of high-grade copies is due to centering issues and print quality. According to the PSA database, there are only been five gem-mint 10s in their database, with a top price over $200,000.
Even in lesser conditions, the 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt #615 is one of the most sought-after rookie cards from the decade. Its importance, showing the beginning of Schmidt’s legendary career, ensures that it remains a prized piece in any collection.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $50-$150
Graded: $1,500-$10,000 (PSA 8-9)
6. 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson #10
The 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson #10 cards feature one of baseball’s most electrifying players during a pivotal point in his career. By 1977, Jackson had already established himself as one of the premier power hitters in the game. This card showcases Jackson in his first season with the New York Yankees, where he would become a legend for his World Series heroics that earned him the nickname “Mr. October.”
Jackson’s 1977 Topps card is notable for capturing him on the cusp of joining the Yankees. He would solidify his legacy with his famous three-homer game in the 1977 World Series. As a result, this card represents a significant transition in Jackson’s storied career.
The 1977 Topps Reggie Jackson #10 is moderately priced, though high-grade copies can command a premium, especially among collectors focused on Hall of Fame players or those who collect key moments in baseball history. For fans of Jackson, this card holds historical importance, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of his iconic run with the Yankees.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $5-$10
Graded: $50-$250 (PSA 7-9)
5. 1972 Topps Roberto Clemente #309
Most 1970s baseball cards derive their value from featuring players at the outset of their careers. This card is the sad exception. The 1972 Topps Roberto Clemente #309 is one of the final cards featuring the legendary Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder. The card was released in the spring before his tragic death and has a haunting quality to it.
By 1972, Clemente was already a revered figure in Major League Baseball, known for his exceptional hitting, strong arm, and humanitarian efforts. The card showcases Clemente in his Pirates uniform, celebrating the career of a player who had already reached 3,000 hits and earned multiple Gold Gloves, MVP honors, and World Series titles.
The 1972 Topps set is recognized for its colorful and somewhat psychedelic design, reflecting the era’s aesthetic. Clemente’s card, part of this vibrant set, is a favorite among collectors not just because of its eye-catching look, but also due to the immense respect and admiration Clemente commands as one of the game’s greatest players and an enduring symbol of excellence on and off the field.
Roberto Clemente cards, in general, are valuable due to his legendary status and fans’ interest in the tragic way he died. For collectors, this card represents a piece of baseball history tied to one of the sport’s most beloved and iconic figures, making it a prized addition to any vintage collection.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $25-$50
Graded: $300-$1,300 (PSA 8-9)
4. 1978 Topps Eddie Murray #36 (RC)
The 1978 Topps Eddie Murray #36 (RC) marks the beginning of the Hall of Fame career of one of baseball’s most consistent and productive switch-hitters. This card features a young Murray during his rookie season with the Baltimore Orioles, where he would immediately make an impact, winning the American League Rookie of the Year award. Murray’s career would span over two decades, during which he accumulated over 500 home runs and 3,000 hits, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s elite sluggers.
The 1978 Topps set has a clean white border and bright team colors framing the player’s image. Murray’s rookie card stands out in the set, not only for its significance but also for capturing him at the start of a career that would make him one of the most reliable hitters in baseball. Unlike some rookie cards that feature multiple players, this card showcases Murray solo, adding to its appeal among collectors.
The value of the 1978 Topps Eddie Murray #36 cards remain strong, especially in high-grade condition. Collectors prize this card as a cornerstone rookie from the late 1970s, representing a player whose longevity and excellence made him one of only a handful to reach both 500 home runs and 3,000 hits.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $20-$40
Graded: $150-$1,500 (PSA 8-9)
3. 1975 Topps Robin Yount #223 (RC)
The 1975 Topps Robin Yount #223 (RC) is the rookie card of a future Hall of Famer who became the face of the Milwaukee Brewers franchise for over two decades. Yount debuted in the majors at just 18 years old, and this card captures him in his early years, setting the stage for a career that would see him amass over 3,000 hits and win two MVP awards. His versatility as both a shortstop and center fielder, combined with his consistency at the plate, earned him a reputation as one of the most dependable players of his era.
The 1975 Topps set has dual-tone borders that make these cards instantly recognizable. Yount’s rookie card is part of this vibrant set, and while the bright borders add visual appeal, they also present challenges for collectors seeking high-grade copies due to frequent chipping and edge wear. PSA’s database has only recorded six copies of Yount’s rookie card in a gem-mint 10 grade.
Yount’s rookie card is a key piece from the 1975 Topps set. It’s an essential card for collectors focusing on Hall of Famers and vintage rookies, as it represents the early days of a player who became a Milwaukee icon and one of the best all-around players of his generation.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $15-$25
Graded: $300-$3,000 (PSA 8-9)
2. 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith #116 (RC)
If you remember Ozzie Smith for his backflips in a Cardinals uniform, watch out. The 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith #116 (RC) shows him in his early days with the San Diego Padres, on his way to becoming one of the best defensive shortstops in baseball history. Known for his extraordinary glove work and acrobatic fielding, Ozzie Smith made an immediate impact with the San Diego Padres upon his debut, leading to a career with 13 Gold Gloves and a spot in the Hall of Fame.
The 1979 Topps set features a straightforward design with a simple player portrait, bordered by a small team logo and a clean, white background. Everything about this card, from the brown and yellow jerseys to Smith’s mutton chops, makes this the quintessential of 1970s baseball cards.
Plagued by centering issues, it’s difficult to find this card in a high condition, with only a handful of PSA 10s on the market, selling for over $100,000. While lower grades of Ozzie Smith’s rookie card are relatively affordable compared to other high-profile rookies, high-grade examples are more popular.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $20-$25
Graded: $250-$2,500 (PSA 8-9)
1. 1975 Topps George Brett #228 (RC)
As 1970s baseball cards go, this is the best of the best. The 1975 Topps George Brett rookie card features the future Hall of Famer, who made his Major League debut with the Kansas City Royals in 1973, but he began to play full-time in 1975, setting records for hits and at-bats early on. He went on to achieve a career that includes over 3,000 hits, a .305 lifetime batting average, and three batting titles.
The George Brett #228 card is a key part of the 1975 Topps set that also included rookies Robin Yount and Jim Rice. Aside from being packed with stars, the set is known for its vibrant, multi-colored borders, which were a departure from the more traditional designs of previous years. Despite its appealing design, the card’s bright borders are prone to chipping and edge wear, making high-grade versions particularly desirable.
The 1975 Topps George Brett #228 rookie card represents not just the start of Brett’s Hall of Fame career but also an important piece of 1970s baseball card canon. For those collecting vintage rookie cards or focusing on Hall of Famers, Brett’s rookie card is an essential addition.
Average Prices:
Ungraded: $75-$100
Graded: $500-$5,000 (PSA 8-9)
