Market outlook
Stable Outlook 5/10
Consistent low prices reflect abundant supply; recent sales show minimal fluctuation with graded 8 at $23.
Next months. Stable with ungraded under $5 and graded 8 around $20-25.
Long term. Stable to slight rise for gem mint and error copies due to Hall of Famer status.
History
Ken Griffey Jr., nicknamed 'The Kid,' is a Hall of Fame baseball player renowned for his exceptional athleticism, power hitting, and defensive prowess in center field for the Seattle Mariners. Debuting in 1989, he became one of the most celebrated players of his era, winning 10 Gold Gloves and hitting 630 career home runs, though this 1990 Topps #336 card is his second-year issue, not a true rookie.
First released in 1990 as part of the Topps Baseball base set in the United States.
- Features the 'Topps All-Star Rookie' trophy logo, often mistaken for a rookie card despite true Topps rookie being 1989 Topps Traded.
- Known error variant called 'Bloody Scar' or 'Bloody Arm' with a red printing flaw on the arm.
- 1990 Topps Tiffany version is a premium glossy parallel with higher value.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Common
- Print run
- Very High
- First printed in
- 1990 Topps Baseball
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- Abundant
- Mass-produced base set from wax packs with no stated print run.
- Error 'Bloody Arm' variant slightly scarcer but still common.
- Tiffany parallel much rarer due to limited hobby pack distribution.
Collector notes
Condition. Check for the 'Bloody Scar' error (red ink blemish on arm), centering issues common in Topps wax packs, edge wear from cuts, surface scratches on borders, and print defects; corners prone to dings.
Storage. Store in semi-rigid holders or top loaders with sleeves in cool, dry environment away from light; use card savers for ungraded copies and professional slabs for high grades.
Authenticity. Examine Topps hologram if graded; verify 'All-Star Rookie' trophy alignment and font; beware reprints lacking era-specific stock thickness or UV-reactive inks; graded/graded grading recommended for high value.