In a surprising turn of events in the sports memorabilia market, the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card has recently surpassed the $5,000 mark. An auction on eBay, which concluded on October 26, 2025, saw the card sell for an impressive $5,300.
Significance of the Sale
This transaction marks a new milestone in the hobby, introducing the notion of a “G5K era” for Griffey cards. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are keenly observing how this development will influence the market.
Grading of the Card
It’s important to note that this record-setting card was graded as a gem mint by PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator). This grading is particularly desirable, yet it’s not as rare as one might think. PSA has assigned the grade of 10 to over 4,000 Griffey cards.
Despite this abundance, achieving a gem mint status remains challenging. For every PSA 10 graded card, there are about eight that earn a grade of 9 and ten receiving a grade of 8. Even cards that appear pristine may require detailed inspection to assess their true grade.
Market Trends
The recent sale indicates a significant upward trend in the card’s value. The final price of $5,300 was notably more than $700 above the previous day’s sale price of $4,535. This increase raises questions about the sustainability of this price point.
Current Auction Activity
- Only two PSA 10 Griffey cards are currently listed for auction.
- One is priced at $4,000, while another sits at $4,500.
This limited auction activity will provide insight into whether the G5K benchmark is here to stay. Collectors are closely watching these bids as they may indicate future market trends.
Available Cards and Pricing
In the current inventory, there are two PSA 10 Griffey rookies listed for less than $5,000. These include:
- One with a steep tariff for U.S. buyers.
- Another priced below $5,000 and open to best offers.
Future price adjustments from sellers are likely, especially in light of the recent sale.
Conclusion
The sale of the $5,300 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card marks a pivotal moment in sports memorabilia. It reflects the increasing interest and financial investment in collectible cards. As the market continues to evolve, collectors eagerly await the next developments in valuation and demand.
