BaseballRookieKey Card
1989 Score Ken Griffey Jr #30
AI confidence: high
Rookie status
This is one of Ken Griffey Jr's official rookie cards from his 1989 debut season. Along with the 1989 Topps Traded #41T and 1989 Upper Deck #1, the 1989 Score #30 is considered one of the key Griffey rookie cards. It was produced in the same year he was drafted and made his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners.
Why this card matters
Ken Griffey Jr is a Hall of Famer (inducted 2016) and one of the most beloved players in baseball history. His rookie cards are iconic collectibles. The 1989 Score rookie, while more widely produced than the 1989 Upper Deck #1, remains a highly sought-after card. It features a classic posed photo of a young Griffey in his Mariners uniform.
Parallels & Print Runs
Glossy/Collector's Edition
Limited collector's set distribution
Score produced a limited glossy parallel version as part of a factory/collector's set. These have a slightly shinier surface compared to the standard version and are somewhat scarcer.
Notable Variants
- ◆ Standard base card
- ◆ Score Glossy/Collector's Edition parallel (shinier surface, collector set exclusive)
- ◆ Error/variation differences in photo or stats — some print runs show minor back variations
Population Context
This is an extremely commonly submitted card to PSA and BGS. PSA has graded tens of thousands of copies. The vast majority grade in the PSA 7-8 range due to the card stock and printing quality of the era. PSA 9s are attainable but represent perhaps 10-15% of submissions. PSA 10s are rare due to centering and surface issues common to this print run. BGS 9.5 Gem Mint copies are scarce. The glossy parallel is far less frequently submitted but can also grade well.
Value Context
Raw ungraded copies in well-loved condition typically sell for $1–$5. Raw Near Mint copies can fetch $5–$15. PSA 7 copies generally sell in the $10–$20 range. PSA 8 copies typically bring $20–$40. PSA 9 copies can sell for $50–$150 depending on market conditions. PSA 10 copies, being rare, can sell for $500–$2,000+ depending on market demand. The glossy parallel commands a modest premium over the base card in equivalent grades.
Collector Notes
Centering is the primary challenge with this card — many copies are off-center left-to-right or top-to-bottom, which kills the grade. Collectors should look for sharp corners, clean white borders, and well-centered cards. Surface scratches and print spots are also common issues. The card back can show print defects and chipping on corners. When buying raw, inspect under good lighting for surface scratches. The 1989 Score Griffey is more affordable than the Upper Deck #1 counterpart, making it a popular entry point for Griffey collectors. The glossy version can be identified by its noticeably shinier front surface.
PSA Population Report
Population data not yet available for this card.
Price trend
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AI-generated information based on training data. Population data and values are estimates — verify with PSA, BGS, or recent eBay sold listings before making financial decisions.