Undervalued Cards from the 90s and Before

While we typically discuss the most relevant and current sports card pickups, today we want to appeal to collectors focusing on everything that isn’t ultra-modern. From old-school refractors to true vintage classics, here’s a look at undervalued cards from the 90s and before.

Michael Jordan 1993 Topps Finest Refractor #1 PSA 9

Kicking off our list is Michael Jordan’s 1993 Topps Finest Refractor, currently selling at $2,350 in PSA 9. While this price may seem steep, it’s important to consider that this card was recently selling at $2,820, meaning value has fallen off at a clip of 17% in just 30 days.

After departing from the Charlotte Hornets organization following a reported $3 billion sale, and with the NBA season approaching, those willing to offer up a chunk of change can always expect long-term value and promising profit potential from a desirable Jordan card like this one.

Sandy Koufax 1956 Topps White Back #79 PSA 7

Next up is Sandy Koufax’s 1955 Topps White Back in PSA 7. After an anomaly sale of $3,100, the price immediately came back down closer to its 365 day average of right around $1,000, meaning collectors can potentially purchase with some meat left on the bone. The current valuation is trending towards a 365-day low, offering both collectors and even flippers prime opportunity to negotiate for their best price. 

Babe Ruth 1948 Leaf Base #3 SGC 1

While a card graded in SGC 1 might not be the most appealing sight for those looking to add expensive pieces to their PC, this Babe Ruth Leaf Base offers an inviting price point, relative to its potential long-term value, to make profitable plays on one of the most highly-recognizable baseball players of all time. This card has fallen 39% in the last 30 days, and is in a prime position in its pricing cycle to make moves on.

Scottie Pippen 1988 Fleer Base #20 PSA 8

Scottie Pippen’s 1988 Fleer Base gives traders an affordable discounted price point, as it’s down 33% over the last 30 days and can now be picked up for just $56. Pair that with a pop count of over 5,000 and it being a heavily traded card (moving 18 times in the last 30 days), and those looking to make bulk plays have both liquidity and an affordable price point to do so.  

Tom Seaver 1973 Topps Base #350 PSA 9

We’re currently seeing a lot of red numbers in regards to some of our favorite baseball legends. Fortunately for buyers, this removes some of the anxiousness associated with trying to ensure you’re picking up the perfect player. You can secure some 1973 Tom Seaver Topps Base cards, with the PSA 9 graded ones down 33% over the last 30 days, while still seeing an increase in trades.

Mickey Mantle 1960 Topps Base #350 PSA 1

Mickey Mantle’s Topps Base is readily available to investors looking to make mid-range pricing plays. Collectors can secure some in PSA 1, as value has dropped $78 over the last 30 days, making this card open for pickup in the $150 price point. While you certainly shouldn’t expect any news-based pricing increases, you’re securing a card that has shown reliable volatility, meaning buying now and keeping an eye on pricing spikes could turn quick profits if listed at the correct times.

Joe Montana 1987 Topps Base #112 PSA 10

As we get closer to rounding off this list, Joe Montana’s 1987 Topps Base in PSA 10 fits perfectly. While some might prefer Montana’s rookie card versions, this option encompasses a wide range of elements discussed with the aforementioned cards, making it the ideal middle ground option for collectors not looking to spend big, but are still wanting to get their hands on a highly graded, high upside card.

Montana’s card is down 21% the last 30 days, and is able to be picked up for $166. This card has a pop count of 165, and is also nearing its 365 day low in terms of pricing. Our charts show us that the card is relatively volatile, meaning if you miss out on one pricing swing and are willing to be patient, another increase is likely to make an appearance.

Julius Erving 1972 Topps Base #195 PSA 8

This card is a great pick for those looking to secure a vintage option who have a niche for basketball history. Erving’s 1972 Topps Base features Dr. J playing for his first ABA team, the Virginia Squires. Options in PSA 8 are going for $1,930, a 23% discount over the last 365 days. The card has been traded 50 times during that time period, a relatively high number for the cards mentioned on this list.

Tony Dorsett 1978 Topps Base #315 PSA 9

Tony Dorsett is one of the most iconic running backs in the history of the NFL, piling up 12,739 rushing yards over his 11 year career. Dorsett’s 1978 Topps Base in PSA 9 is down $400 over the last 365 days, meaning you can pick up this vintage option for around $650.

The card has a pop count of 354 and is the highest graded PSA option currently traded.

Nolan Ryan 1968 Topps Rookie Stars #177 PSA 6

Rounding off our list is Nolan Ryan’s 1968 Topps rookie card. While higher graded Ryan Rookie Stars cards are available, his PSA 6 options provide a more attainable price, as it has a pop count of 2,287 and is currently trading at $1,600.

The card is down 23% in the last 30 days alone, making this a strong buy for vintage baseball lovers. 

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Paul Hickey is a regular contributor to Sports Card Investor, the creator of the Sports Card Investment Report at NoOffseason.com, and the host of the Sports Card Strategy Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube. He can be found on Instagram at @sportscardstrategy and on Twitter @nooffseasoncard.