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Sports CardsCommon

Rickey Henderson— Value & Price Guide

Topps1981Topps#261

Market Valuation

HOLD

Fair Market Value

$4.00

Based on 20 verified comparable sales

Low
$3.00
Median
$4.00
High
$6.00
+11.6%recent sales
AI Confidence: 93%

Expert Analysis

While the card's value is relatively modest, it features a Hall of Famer and shows a positive market trend. Holding this card is advisable as its value is stable with potential for minor appreciation, especially for a well-conditioned raw copy or if graded. Given the recent upward trend, selling now might miss out on further gains, but the card is not significantly undervalued to warrant an aggressive 'buy' recommendation.

Market Analysis & Price Trends

Based on 20 verified recent sales on eBay, the Rickey Henderson has a current fair market value of $4.00 with prices ranging from $3.00 to $6.00. The most recent recorded sale was $3.00.

Market trends show upward movement over the past recent sales, with a +11.6% price change. Recent sales data indicates a slight upward trend in value for this card, with the average price of recent sales being 11.6% higher than older sales.

Our AI analysis rates this card as a HOLD. While the card's value is relatively modest, it features a Hall of Famer and shows a positive market trend. Holding this card is advisable as its value is stable with potential for minor appreciation, especially for a well-conditioned raw copy or if graded. Given the recent upward trend, selling now might miss out on further gains, but the card is not significantly undervalued to warrant an aggressive 'buy' recommendation.

Collecting Insights

This card is a Common rarity, Base variant, from the Topps set, released in 1981. Collectors value this card for its unique attributes and market positioning.

Notable features include: Hall of Fame player Rickey Henderson, Vintage 1981 Topps set, Second year card of a baseball legend, Affordable entry point for HOF collector. These characteristics contribute to the card's collectibility and market demand.

Rickey Henderson's cards are highly sought after due to his status as a Hall of Famer, his iconic MLB records in stolen bases and runs, and his reputation as one of baseball's most exciting and innovative players.

Key Features

  • Hall of Fame player Rickey Henderson
  • Vintage 1981 Topps set
  • Second year card of a baseball legend
  • Affordable entry point for HOF collector

Quick Facts

  • Rickey Henderson holds the MLB career records for stolen bases (1,406) and runs scored (2,295), making him an undisputed legend of the game.
  • His 1981 Topps card is a second-year card, often a desirable collectible for Hall of Fame players.
  • Henderson was known for his unique batting crouch and his 'snatch catches' in the outfield, adding to his charismatic persona.
  • He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 2009, a testament to his undeniable impact on baseball.
  • This card represents an affordable entry point for collectors to own a piece of 'Man of Steal' history, especially with its recent positive market trend.

Recent eBay Sold Listings

1981 Topps - Rickey Henderson #261 - Oakland A's - Hall of Fame - (NMT+/MNT)$3.00
1981 Topps #261 Rickey Henderson$3.00
1981 Topps - Rickey Henderson #261$4.00
1981 Topps Rickey Henderson #261 Oakland Athletics HOF 2nd Yr Very Clean Card$5.00
1981 Topps Baseball Card #261 Rickey Henderson Oakland Athletics - NrMt-Mt$4.00
1981 Topps - Rickey Henderson #261 Athletics EX-NM HOF$8.00
1981 Topps Rickey Henderson #261$3.00
1981 Topps Rickey Henderson #261 HOF EX+$4.00

Grading ROI Estimate

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Estimated value after professional grading, based on typical grade multipliers for this price range.

GradeEst. ValueCostNet Profit
PSA 10$14.00$25.00-$15.00
PSA 9$7.20$25.00-$21.80
BGS 9.5$10.00$30.00-$24.00
CGC 9.8$8.00$22.00-$18.00

Estimates based on typical grade multipliers. Actual values vary by card popularity, scarcity, and market conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Based on 20 verified eBay sold listings, the Rickey Henderson has a fair market value of $4.00. Prices range from $3.00 to $6.00 depending on condition and seller. Values are updated regularly based on real transaction data.

Rickey Henderson Base - Trading Card Image

Image from verified eBay sold listing

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About the Rickey Henderson

Rickey Henderson's 1981 Topps card captures the "Man of Steal" early in his unparalleled career. While not his rookie, this card is a significant piece for collectors documenting the ascent of baseball's all-time stolen base and leadoff home run king. Henderson's impact on the game, redefining the leadoff hitter role, makes any of his early issues highly desirable. This 1981 Topps offering provides an accessible entry point into collecting one of the sport's most electrifying Hall of Famers. Its value, around $4.00, reflects its common availability but solidifies its place as a foundational card for any serious Rickey Henderson or Oakland Athletics collection. It's a steady hold for its historical significance.

Career Highlights

  • Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (2009)
  • MLB career record holder for stolen bases (1,406)
  • MLB career record holder for runs scored (2,295)
  • MLB career record holder for leadoff home runs
  • 1990 AL MVP
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