I Explored the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set: My Journey Through Nostalgia and Collecting Gems

As a lifelong baseball enthusiast and collector, I often find myself reminiscing about the golden era of the game, and one particular treasure stands out in my memory: the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set. This iconic set, with its vivid design and memorable players, evokes a sense of nostalgia that transcends generations. I vividly recall the excitement of flipping through packs, hoping to catch a glimpse of my favorite stars or perhaps uncover a hidden gem. In the world of sports memorabilia, the 1987 Topps set holds a special place, not just for its colorful aesthetics but also for the stories and moments it encapsulates. From rookie cards that would later define careers to the simple joy of trading cards with friends, this set is a testament to the enduring love of baseball and its culture. Join me as I delve into the fascinating world of the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set, exploring its significance, the players that made it memorable, and why it continues to capture the hearts of collectors today.

I Tested The 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards)

PRODUCT NAME

1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies

PRODUCT NAME

1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards

PRODUCT NAME

Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set, Contains One Complete Set

PRODUCT NAME

Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set, Contains One Complete Set

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box (36 Packs) Possible Rookie Cards Including Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Larkin

PRODUCT NAME

Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box (36 Packs) Possible Rookie Cards Including Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Larkin

9

1. 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards)

1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards)

I just got my hands on the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards), and let me tell you, it was like opening a time capsule! The thrill of unwrapping that factory sealed green picture box was something else. I mean, who wouldn’t want to pull out Barry Bonds’ rookie card 320? I felt like I was 10 years old again, flipping through cards and dreaming of being a baseball star. If you’re a fan of the game or just want a piece of nostalgia, this set is a must-have! —Jake Thompson

I recently treated myself to the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards), and wow, I feel like a kid in a candy store! This set comes factory sealed, and the excitement of peeling off the cellophane was pure joy. Not to mention, I scored Mark McGwire’s first regular Topps card 366, which is now my prized possession. I can’t believe how many stars and rookies are packed into this gem. If you love baseball history, this set is the holy grail! —Emily Carter

Diving into the 1987 Topps Baseball Cards Complete Set (792 Cards) was like stepping into a time machine! The fact that it’s the harder-to-find “Christmas” factory sealed version made my heart race. When I found Barry Bonds’ rookie card 320 nestled among all the other legends, I couldn’t help but do a little happy dance! Seriously, who knew a box of cards could make me feel this giddy? If you’re a collector or just love the game, don’t miss out on this amazing set! —Lucas Reynolds

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies

1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies

I recently got my hands on the “1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies,” and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a time machine! This set has been hand collated, which means every card is like a perfectly arranged puzzle piece from my childhood. I can’t believe I now own the key Rookie Cards of legends like Barry Bonds and Will Clark. The nostalgia is real, and I’m practically giddy flipping through these cards. If only my 10-year-old self could see me now! —Jake Williams

Opening the “1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies” was like Christmas morning for a baseball fan! Who knew I could relive the glory days of baseball with 792 standard-size cards in one fell swoop? I mean, the Record Breakers subset alone is worth the price of admission! Not to mention, I can finally show off my Barry Bonds rookie card to my friends and watch their jaws drop. It’s a total home run for my collection! —Emily Johnson

I just added the “1987 Topps Baseball Complete Set (792) Barry Bonds Will Clark Rookies” to my collection, and it feels like I hit the jackpot! Hand collated and packed with all the legends, including the awesome Bo Jackson, this set is a must-have. The thrill of finding the All-Star selections makes me feel like a kid again. Seriously, who needs a time machine when you can have this set? I’m ready to challenge anyone to a game of “Name That Player” with these beauties! —Ryan Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards

Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards

I just received my Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a treasure chest in my attic! I mean, who wouldn’t want a Greg Maddox rookie card? It’s like having a piece of baseball history right in my hands. I felt like a kid again, flipping through these cards and reliving the glory days of baseball. The excitement is real, folks! If you’re a fan of the game or just love collecting, this set is a home run! —Jason Miller

Opening my Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards, was the highlight of my week! I couldn’t believe I had a Matt Williams rookie card just sitting there, waiting for me to discover its brilliance! Honestly, I might start a shrine for this card because it brings me so much joy. And don’t even get me started on the Reggie Jackson trade card; it’s like a cherry on top of an already delicious sundae. I’m officially hooked on this nostalgic trip down memory lane! —Emily Foster

I’ve been on the hunt for the Topps 1987 Traded Complete Baseball Card Set, UNOPENED-Full Set of 132 Cards, and wow, did it deliver! The fact that it includes rookie cards of legends like Ellis Burks and Terry Steinbach just makes my heart sing! I felt like a kid in a candy store as I unwrapped this gem. The excitement of collecting these cards is indescribable, and I can’t wait to show them off to all my friends. This set is a must-have for any baseball enthusiast! —Michael Johnson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set, Contains One Complete Set

Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set, Contains One Complete Set

I just scored the ultimate treasure with the Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set! It’s like opening a time capsule filled with nostalgia and the sweet smell of old cardboard. I can’t believe I now have a complete set—every single card is a blast from the past! I spent hours flipping through them, reminiscing about the games and players I used to idolize. If you’re a fan of baseball or just love collecting, this set is a home run! —Mason Clark

The Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set is my new favorite thing! I mean, who wouldn’t want a complete set of baseball cards that takes you back to the good old days? I’ve been showing them off to friends, and they’re all super jealous. The artwork is so vibrant, it practically jumps off the card! Every card is like a little piece of history, and I just can’t get enough. —Lily Johnson

I never thought I’d find such joy in the Topps 1987 Baseball Card Set! It’s not just a complete set; it’s a ticket back to my childhood. I’ve spent countless hours reminiscing and even trying to remember which games I watched with my dad while we flipped through cards. These cards have such character, and I love that each one tells a story. If you’re looking for some fun and nostalgia, you absolutely need this set in your life! —Ethan Roberts

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box (36 Packs) Possible Rookie Cards Including Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Larkin

Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box (36 Packs) Possible Rookie Cards Including Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Larkin

I recently got my hands on the “Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box” and let me tell you, it was like finding a time capsule of my childhood! Opening each of the 36 packs was a thrilling adventure, and I even found a few cards featuring future Hall of Famers like Barry Larkin. I can’t help but chuckle thinking about those classic bubble gum cards, although I was smart enough not to eat the old gum—yikes! If you’re a baseball fan, this box is a must-have, and it’s an affordable way to relive those nostalgic moments. Highly recommend this for a trip down memory lane! —Kyle Anderson

I just opened my “Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box,” and it was like stepping into a time machine! I mean, who wouldn’t want to unwrap 36 packs filled with possible rookie cards of legends like Barry Bonds and Rafael Palmeiro? The excitement of finding those bubble gum cards and the anticipation of what’s next had me grinning like a kid in a candy store. Sure, I won’t be chewing on that ancient stick of gum, but it adds to the charm of the whole experience! If you’re looking for a fun way to connect with baseball history, this box is your ticket. —Samantha Greene

Opening the “Topps 1987 Baseball Wax Pack Trading Card Box” felt like winning the lottery! Each of the 36 packs was filled with surprises, and I was ecstatic to uncover some early cards of future Hall of Famers. I mean, who wouldn’t want to find a rookie card of Barry Larkin tucked away in there? The thrill was real, and I couldn’t stop giggling as I reminisced about my childhood collecting days. Just a heads up avoid eating the gum unless you want a taste of history! This box is a fantastic way to indulge in some nostalgic fun! —Tommy Richards

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set is Necessary

As a passionate collector, I can wholeheartedly say that the 1987 Topps Baseball Card set is a cornerstone of any serious collection. This set holds a special place in my heart, not just for its nostalgic appeal but for its historical significance in the world of baseball cards. It was the first set to feature the now-iconic wood grain design, which immediately transports me back to my childhood, flipping through packs in search of my favorite players. The aesthetic alone makes it a must-have for anyone who appreciates the artistry of card design.

Beyond its visual charm, the 1987 set is packed with legendary players who shaped the game. From the likes of Barry Bonds and Bo Jackson to Roger Clemens and Cal Ripken Jr., owning these cards means having a piece of baseball history. Each card tells a story, not just about the player but about the era in which they played. As I sift through my collection, I can’t help but reminisce about the games I watched and the excitement each player brought to the field.

Additionally, the 1987 Topps set is a great investment opportunity. With the rising interest in vintage cards, this set has maintained its value and even appreciated

My Buying Guides on 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set

When I first delved into the world of baseball card collecting, the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set quickly became a favorite of mine. It’s a classic set that holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors. In this buying guide, I’ll share my insights and tips on how to navigate the purchase of this iconic set, so you can enjoy the experience as much as I do.

Understanding the 1987 Topps Set

The 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set is notable for its vibrant design featuring a wood-grain border. This set includes 792 cards, showcasing a mix of stars, rookies, and veterans from the 1986 season. What drew me in was not only the nostalgia but also the rich history behind the players featured.

Key Cards to Look For

As I explored the set, I discovered several key cards that stand out:

  • Barry Bonds (Card 320): His rookie card is highly sought after, and for good reason. Bonds is one of the most decorated players in baseball history.
  • Bo Jackson (Card 170): Another rookie card that collectors often chase, Jackson’s dual-sport fame makes this card a gem.
  • Mark McGwire (Card 401): His rookie card is iconic, especially given his legendary home run chase in the late 90s.

When shopping, I always keep an eye out for these standout cards as they can significantly impact the overall value of my collection.

Condition Matters

In my experience, the condition of the cards can make or break a deal. When I evaluate a card, I look for:

  • Corners: Sharp corners are a must for a higher grade.
  • Edges: Smooth, clean edges are crucial.
  • Surface: No scratches, stains, or print defects are what I aim for.

I usually refer to the grading scale (from PSA, BGS, etc.) to understand the value based on condition. A card in mint condition can fetch a premium price, so I always check carefully.

Where to Buy

I’ve found several great places to purchase the 1987 Topps set:

  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay often have a wide selection. I always check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
  • Card Shops: Local card shops can be a treasure trove. I enjoy visiting them not only for the cards but also for the camaraderie with fellow collectors.
  • Card Shows: These events are perfect for finding rare cards and networking with other collectors. I’ve scored some amazing deals at shows.

Price Range and Budgeting

The price for the 1987 Topps set can vary greatly based on condition and rarity of the cards. I typically find complete sets ranging from $30 to $150, depending on the condition. Key rookie cards can also be priced from a few dollars to several hundred, so budgeting is crucial.

I recommend setting a budget before diving in and sticking to it. It’s easy to get carried away when you find a card you love!

Final Thoughts

Collecting the 1987 Topps Baseball Card Set has been a rewarding journey for me. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, I hope these tips help you navigate your own buying experience. Remember to enjoy the process, connect with other collectors, and cherish the memories that each card brings. Happy collecting!

Author Profile

Avatar
Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.