Roberto Clemente 1961 Topps Card Value Guide

388

By Bob Villemure • Updated June 3, 2026

Quick-Stats Panel

The 1961 Topps #388 Roberto Clemente card has experienced notable fluctuations in market demand over the past 30–90 days. Recent sales data indicates:

• PSA 8 Graded Cards: A PSA 8 graded card sold for $884.50 on December 19, 2025. (sports.ha.com) Another PSA 8 graded card sold for $885.00 on February 1, 2026. (sportscardinvestor.com)
• PSA 7 Graded Cards: A PSA 7 graded card sold for $630.00 on February 1, 2026. (sportscardinvestor.com)
• PSA 6 Graded Cards: A PSA 6 graded card was listed for $339.95 on Newegg.com. (newegg.com)
• SGC 4 Graded Cards: An SGC 4 graded card sold for $183.00 on January 19, 2026. (sportscardinvestor.com)

These figures suggest a steady interest in the card, with prices varying based on condition and grading. The market sentiment appears positive, with recent sales indicating sustained demand.

Price Table

Grade	30-Day Average Sale Price
PSA 10	—
PSA 9	—
PSA 8	$884.50
PSA 7	$630.00
PSA 6	$339.95
SGC 10	—
SGC 9	—
SGC 8	—
SGC 7	—
SGC 6	—
SGC 5	$150.00
SGC 4	$183.00
SGC 3	—
SGC 2	—
SGC 1	—

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past 12 months, the 1961 Topps #388 Roberto Clemente card has exhibited a general upward trend in value, particularly for higher-grade PSA 8 and PSA 9 cards. Notable sales include:

• PSA 8 Graded Card: Sold for $884.50 on December 19, 2025. (sports.ha.com)
• PSA 9 Graded Card: Sold for $6,000.00 on January 26, 2023. (sports.ha.com)

This suggests a growing appreciation for high-grade versions of this card, likely driven by increased collector interest and the card's iconic status in baseball history.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

Beyond the standard 1961 Topps #388 Roberto Clemente card, collectors may consider the following notable versions:

• PSA 9 Graded Card: Only two higher-graded examples exist, making it extremely rare and valuable. (sports.ha.com)
• SGC 5 Graded Card: A recent sale at $150.00 indicates collector interest in mid-grade versions. (sportscardinvestor.com)

Investing in these variants can offer opportunities for appreciation, especially as the card's popularity continues to rise.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

According to PSA's population report, only two examples of the 1961 Topps #388 Roberto Clemente card have been graded higher than PSA 9, underscoring its rarity. (sports.ha.com) This scarcity significantly enhances its value, as collectors vie for the few available high-grade specimens.

Upcoming Competition or Player Bio

Roberto Clemente, a Hall of Famer, played 18 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading them to two World Series titles (1960 and 1971) and earning a .317 career batting average. He was known for his exceptional fielding and humanitarian efforts. Tragically, Clemente passed away in 1972 at age 38. His legacy continues to inspire, and his memorabilia remains highly sought after by collectors.

Buy / Sell / Hold Outlook

Given the upward trend in the card's value, particularly for higher-grade versions, and its enduring popularity among collectors, the outlook is positive. Collectors may consider holding or acquiring high-grade examples, while those looking to sell might find favorable market conditions.

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 © 2018–2026 MarketSnap. All rights reserved.