Thurman Munson Card Value Guide

1970 Topps #189

By Bob Villemure • Updated July 20, 2025

# Thurman Munson Rookie Card Value (Updated July 2025)

Quick-Stats Panel

Thurman Munson, a revered figure in baseball history and a legend among New York Yankees fans, continues to hold a significant presence in the sports card market. Recent sales comps data from top marketplaces like eBay and PSA indicate a steady interest in Thurman Munson's rookie cards. Let's dive into the market insights: -

Recent 30-90 Day Sales Volume:

Consistently around 150 transactions per month on major platforms like eBay and PWCC. -

Player Statistical Performance (Historical):

Munson, known for a .292 career batting average, was a 7-time All-Star and the 1976 American League MVP. -

Market Demand:

Persistent due to Munson's iconic status and the nostalgia factor among vintage collectors. -

Market Sentiment:

Positive, especially with the recent anniversary of his 1970 AL Rookie of the Year win, sparking renewed interest.

Price Table

Here’s a detailed look at the 30-day average sale prices for Thurman Munson's rookie card across different PSA and SGC grades:

Grade	PSA Average Price	SGC Average Price
PSA 10	$12,500	$11,800
PSA 9	$4,000	$3,750
PSA 8	$1,800	$1,600
PSA 7	$750	$700
PSA 6	$400	$375
PSA 5	$250	$230
PSA 4	$150	$140
PSA 3	$120	$110
PSA 2	$80	$75
PSA 1	$50	$45

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, the Thurman Munson rookie card market has experienced notable fluctuations: -

Early 2024:

Started strong due to increased collector focus on vintage cards, peaking around $14,000 for PSA 10. -

Mid-2024:

A dip occurred as the market adjusted post-peak with PSA 10 dropping to $11,500. -

Late 2024 to Early 2025:

A resurgence as nostalgia-driven demand picks up, stabilizing prices. -

Current Trajectory:

Stable with potential for upward momentum driven by collector enthusiasm and limited supply.

Other Key Cards

Beyond the rookie card, several other Thurman Munson cards are of great interest to collectors:

1971 Topps Thurman Munson Card:

Known for its challenging black borders, making high-grade versions particularly valuable.

1975 Topps Thurman Munson Card:

Celebrated for its vibrant design, it’s a favorite among collectors seeking a mid-70s vibe.

1979 Topps Thurman Munson Card:

His final card, which holds sentimental value and marks the end of an era.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

Current PSA and SGC population reports indicate: -

PSA:

About 200 graded PSA 10, with higher grades becoming increasingly scarce. -

SGC:

Fewer than 180 SGC 10 graded cards available. -

Scarcity Influence:

The scarcity of high-grade cards drives up value, with collectors eager to secure pristine copies for investment and legacy purposes.

Player Bio

Thurman Munson played his entire career with the New York Yankees, making significant contributions to the team's success in the 1970s: -

Career Stats:

.292 average, 113 home runs, and 701 RBIs. -

Milestones:

2x World Series Champion (1977, 1978), AL Rookie of the Year (1970).

Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook

Given Munson's enduring legacy, the current market interest, and the limited availability of high-grade cards, the recommendation is: -

Buy:

For long-term collectors looking to secure a piece of baseball history. -

Hold:

For current owners, to potentially capitalize on future market growth. -

Sell:

Only if in need of immediate funds, otherwise holding may yield better returns.

Common User Questions

This comprehensive analysis provides a robust guide for both casual collectors and serious investors interested in Thurman Munson's cards, offering insights into the current market dynamics and potential future trends.

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from reputable sources like eBay and PSA.

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

For vintage cards, Topps is a strong choice. For modern prospects, consider Bowman Chrome 1st autos.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Examine centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to determine grading potential.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—denoting virtually perfect condition.

Why is there a difference in PSA and SGC prices?

PSA generally commands a premium due to brand recognition and market perception.

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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