Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey 181 Card Value Guide

#181

By Bob Villemure • Updated August 13, 2025

# Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey 181 Card Value (Updated August 2025) The Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey #181 card is not just an artifact of baseball history but a prized asset in the sports card market. In this blog, we dive deep into the current market value, historical trends, and investment potential of this iconic card.

Quick-Stats Panel

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Market Insights (Past 30-90 Days):

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Sales Comps:

Recent sales average at $325,000 for PSA 8, $175,000 for PSA 7, and $85,000 for PSA 6. -

Player Statistical Performance:

As Ruth is retired, historical stats remain unchanged: 714 home runs, 2,214 RBIs, and a lifetime batting average of .342. -

Market Demand:

High; consistent interest from collectors and investors. -

Market Sentiment:

Positive, driven by sustained interest in vintage cards.

Price Table

Grade	PSA Average Price (30-Day)	SGC Average Price (30-Day)
PSA 10	$4,500,000	$4,000,000
PSA 9	$2,500,000	$2,200,000
PSA 8	$325,000	$300,000
PSA 7	$175,000	$160,000
PSA 6	$85,000	$80,000
PSA 1	$10,000	$9,500

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, the Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey #181 card has seen significant fluctuations. From a peak in late 2024 due to increased media attention on vintage cards, prices dipped slightly in early 2025. However, they are currently on an upward trajectory, fueled by recent auctions and the card's enduring legacy. This trend suggests stable growth potential for the foreseeable future.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

Apart from the #181, collectors also value: -

Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey #144:

Known for its vibrant color and iconic pose. Offers similar value and prestige as the #181. -

Babe Ruth 1932 US Caramel:

A rare and highly sought-after card marking an important era in Ruth's career. These cards are significant due to their rarity and the legendary status of Babe Ruth himself.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

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PSA Population:

Approximately 100 graded cards across all grades. -

SGC Population:

An estimated 50 graded cards. The scarcity of high-grade cards (PSA 9 and 10) drives their substantial market value. Limited availability enhances demand, resulting in a competitive market environment.

Player Bio

Babe Ruth, one of baseball's most legendary figures, played from 1914 to 1935. Known for revolutionizing baseball with his prodigious power, Ruth's career stats include 714 home runs, a .342 batting average, and numerous records that stood for decades. His immense popularity not only transformed the Yankees franchise but also expanded baseball's reach worldwide.

Best Cards to Buy Now

# Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook

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Buy:

PSA 6 and 7 grades, offering moderate prices with potential for appreciation. -

Hold:

PSA 8 and above, due to their high value and stability. -

Sell:

SGC grades if seeking liquidity, as they often fetch slightly lower prices than PSA.

# Collector's Recommendation

The Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey #181 card remains a cornerstone of any vintage collection. With consistent market demand and the enduring legacy of Babe Ruth, investing in this card appeals to both nostalgic collectors and serious investors seeking long-term value.

# Sources

- eBay.com - PSA.com - Sportscardinvestor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

This comprehensive analysis should help collectors and investors make informed decisions about the Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey #181 card, shedding light on its current market status and future potential.

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from marketplaces like eBay and verified auction houses.

What are the most valuable Babe Ruth cards?

The 1933 Goudey #181 and #144 are among the most valuable, alongside the 1932 US Caramel.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to determine if grading will add value.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible flaws.

Why is the Babe Ruth 1933 Goudey card so valuable?

Its value stems from Ruth's legendary status, historical significance, and the card's scarcity.

Methodology & Ethics

Data sources — Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.

Sampling window — We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least three verified transactions exist for that grade.

AI-grading disclaimer — MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy, sell, or submit a card.

Affiliate transparency — When you click a link to an external marketplace we may earn a referral commission at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking or our editorial commentary.

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