Steve Garvey Card Value Guide

1971 Topps #341

By Bob Villemure • Updated July 20, 2025

# Steve Garvey Rookie Card Value (Updated July 2025) Collecting sports cards is both an art and a science, one that involves understanding market trends, player performance, and the intrinsic value of the cards themselves. Today, we're diving into Steve Garvey's rookie card and its value in the current market.

Quick-Stats Panel

# Market Insights (Past 30-90 Days)

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Sales Comps:

Recent sales data from eBay, PWCC, and Heritage Auctions show a steady demand for Steve Garvey's rookie cards, with a consistent number of transactions occurring weekly. -

Player Stats:

Although Garvey retired, his career stats continue to impress: a .294 batting average, 272 home runs, and 1,308 RBIs. -

Market Demand:

Garvey's rookie card is experiencing moderate demand, primarily driven by nostalgia and the enduring legacy of his time with the Dodgers and Padres. -

Market Sentiment:

Generally positive due to Garvey's contributions to the game and his recognizability among collectors.

Price Table

Below is a 30-day average sale price table for Steve Garvey's rookie card (#1971 Topps #341), across various PSA and SGC grades.

Grade	PSA Price	SGC Price
PSA 10	$8,500	$7,800
PSA 9	$3,500	$3,200
PSA 8	$1,200	$1,100
PSA 7	$600	$550
PSA 6	$400	$375
PSA 5	$250	$225
PSA 4	$150	$140
PSA 3	$100	$90
PSA 2	$75	$70
PSA 1	$50	$45

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, Steve Garvey's rookie card has seen some interesting fluctuations: -

Peaks:

In December 2024, there was a surge in interest due to a documentary on MLB Network about the Dodgers' championship years, causing prices to spike by 20%. -

Dips:

A minor dip occurred in March 2025 as offseason trading and new player trades drew attention away from vintage cards. -

Current Trajectory:

As of July 2025, prices are stabilizing with a slight upward trend due to increased collector interest in vintage cards.

Other Key Cards

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1974 Topps #80:

Known for its iconic design and part of the year Garvey won the National League MVP. -

1978 Topps #400:

This card marks Garvey's third consecutive Gold Glove year and is a fan favorite. -

1981 Fleer #340:

Celebrates his standout performance in the World Series with the Dodgers.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

As of the latest reports (sourced from PSA.com): -

PSA Population:

Approximately 1,200 cards graded PSA 8 or higher. -

SGC Population:

About 800 cards graded SGC 8 or higher. -

Scarcity Influence:

Higher-grade cards are relatively scarce, which drives their value. Lower-grade cards are more prevalent, thus less expensive but still valuable to budget-conscious collectors.

Player Bio

Steve Garvey was a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Dodgers during the 1970s and early 1980s. Known for his consistent play, Garvey was a ten-time All-Star and the 1974 National League MVP. His accolades include four Gold Glove Awards and participation in five World Series, winning one with the Dodgers in 1981.

Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook

Based on Steve Garvey's enduring legacy, steady market demand, and the current fan interest, our recommendation: -

Buy:

If you're a fan of vintage cards and appreciate player legacies. -

Hold:

For existing owners, holding could see gains as vintage interest grows. -

Sell:

Only if you're targeting other investments, as the current market presents stable values.

# Summary

Steve Garvey's rookie card remains a cherished collectible, embodying his storied career and the era he played in. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer, understanding market trends, scarcity, and player history will inform your investment strategy.

# User Questions and Answers

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from platforms like eBay.com and PSA.com, providing a snapshot of current market trends.

What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?

Vintage cards like Topps for established players, and Bowman Chrome 1st autos for prospects, are generally good long-term investments.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality, as these are key factors in grading.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with sharp corners, no visible flaws, and perfectly centered.

Is investing in vintage cards like Garvey's a good idea?

Yes, investing in vintage cards can be rewarding, especially if the player has a strong legacy and the card is in good condition.

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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