This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2024
One of the most coveted modern-day rookie cards in the hobby is the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie, and it's not hard to understand why. Putting aside its significance as a debut pasteboard of one of baseball's all-time greats, it's card #1 of Upper Deck's inaugural series; there's no better introduction to the world of modern card collecting. And it just looks so darn good! But while the '89 Upper Deck Griffey is the most recognized card of "Junior", perhaps his most significant card is the 1993 Finest Refractor All-Star card. The 1993 season was a breakout year for Griffey, who had been averaging 22 homers with a .301 batting average to that point. But Griffey exploded in '93 with 45 homers. If not for an injury-shortened season in 1995, that 1993 season would have been the start of what would be eight consecutive 40+ seasons, and maybe another American League home run title to add to the four that he earned over that stretch. First off, the eye appeal is off the scale with Griffey at the forefront of a multi-colored home plate, surrounded by a green backdrop that extends out to the edges and endpoints, making the card very prone to chipping. Not this time though, as this amazing piece remains as fresh as the day it left the pack. The reverse equally stands up to the demands of a GEM MINT assessment, extraordinarily bright and problem-free. If you're a Griffey collector or just have an appreciation for the truly classic issues, this is one magnificent card that needs to be added to your elite collection.