Nolan Ryan 1968 Topps Card Value Guide
#177
By Bob Villemure • Updated September 24, 2025
Quick-Stats Panel
The 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card has experienced notable fluctuations in the market over the past 12 months. High-grade versions, particularly those with exceptional centering, have commanded significant premiums. For instance, a
PSA 9 graded card sold for $85,000 in May 2025, highlighting the premium associated with well-centered examples. (
ebay.com)
Price Table
Below is a table summarizing the 30-day average sale prices for the 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card across various grades:
Grade | 30-Day Average Price |
---|
PSA 10 | — |
PSA 9 | $85,000 |
PSA 8 | $8,600 |
PSA 7 | — |
PSA 6 | — |
PSA 5 | $1,450 |
PSA 4 | — |
PSA 3 | — |
SGC 10 | — |
SGC 9 | — |
SGC 8 | — |
SGC 7 | — |
SGC 6 | $2,000 |
SGC 5 | — |
SGC 4 | — |
SGC 3 | — |
*Note: Data for certain grades is unavailable due to limited sales or listings.*
12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past year, the market for the 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card has seen significant volatility. High-grade versions, especially those with superior centering, have experienced substantial appreciation. For example, a
PSA 9 graded card sold for $85,000 in May 2025, indicating a strong demand for well-centered copies. In contrast, lower-grade versions have seen more modest price movements, with a PSA 5 graded card selling for $1,450 in August 2025. (
ebay.com)
Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
PSA 9 Graded Card:
A
PSA 9 graded 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card sold for $85,000 in May 2025, underscoring the premium for high-quality, well-centered examples. (
ebay.com)
PSA 8 Graded Card:
A
PSA 8 graded card sold for $8,600 in May 2025, reflecting strong demand for high-grade versions. (
sportscardinvestor.com)
PSA 5 Graded Card:
A PSA 5 graded card sold for $1,450 in August 2025, indicating steady interest in mid-grade examples. (
ebay.com)
Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
The scarcity of the 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card is evident in its population reports:
-
PSA Population:
As of the latest data, there are 68
PSA 9 graded cards and 5
PSA 10 graded cards.
-
SGC Population:
There are 57 SGC 8.5 graded cards and 1 SGC 10 graded card.
The limited number of high-grade cards, especially those with exceptional centering, contributes to their outsized premiums in the market.
Upcoming Competition or Player Bio
Nolan Ryan, a Hall of Fame pitcher, played 27 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Mets, California Angels, Houston Astros, and Texas Rangers. He is renowned for his seven no-hitters and 5,714 career strikeouts, both MLB records. Ryan retired in 1993 and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999.
Buy / Sell / Hold Outlook
Given the current market trends and the premium associated with high-grade, well-centered versions of the 1968 Topps #177 Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card, collectors should consider the following:
-
Buy:
Investing in high-grade, well-centered cards may yield significant returns due to their rarity and demand.
-
Sell:
If holding lower-grade versions, consider selling during periods of market appreciation.
-
Hold:
Mid-grade cards may appreciate over time, but returns may be more modest compared to high-grade examples.
*Note: Market conditions can change; it's advisable to consult with a professional before making investment decisions.*
🛒 Top Buy It Now (Filtered):
🕒 Searching sold items…
FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from reputable sources, including eBay and Sports Card Investor.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Topps and Bowman cards, especially those featuring rookie players, are generally considered strong investments due to their historical significance and collector demand.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Examine the card for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality. Cards with minimal imperfections and good centering are prime candidates for grading.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible imperfections, sharp corners, and perfect centering.
Why do some cards have refractor or parallel versions?
Refractors and parallels are special print variations—often shinier or colored—that are produced in smaller quantities, making them more collectible and valuable.
How often should I check card prices?
Markets shift quickly, especially during player call-ups, hot streaks, or playoff runs. Checking weekly—or even daily for prospects and stars—helps you stay on top of trends.
🔥 Top Auctions (Ending ≤ 24h):
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.
Copyright © 2018–2025 MarketSnap. All rights reserved.