Ken Griffey Jr. just reminded the sports card world why he’s still one of the most celebrated figures in the hobby. A PSA 9 copy of his 1998 Skybox E-X Essential Credentials Now card has officially become the most valuable Griffey card ever sold, hammering for $280,600 at Heritage Auctions.
The card — serial numbered 4/10 — hadn’t appeared in a public auction for two decades. With only 10 copies ever produced and just four publicly graded, its rarity is unquestionable. Two have reached a PSA Mint 9, including this one, making it not just rare, but elite.
A New High for a Hobby Icon
Griffey, known as The Kid, has always held a special place in collectors' hearts. His charisma, legendary swing, and era-defining career make his cards some of the most chased in the market. This latest sale just put an exclamation point on that legacy.
Before this, the record belonged to Griffey’s 1998 Upper Deck A Piece of the Action Patch Autograph (BGS 8.5), which brought in $84,000. That card, signed and limited to just 24 copies, was long viewed as his crown jewel — until now.
View BGS 8.5 Patch AutoMarket Momentum for Griffey & Beyond
This milestone sale is already sending shockwaves through the Griffey card market. His iconic 1989 Upper Deck Star Rookie — arguably the most recognizable rookie card of the modern era — is on the move.
- PSA 10 has climbed 8.7% over the last 30 days
- Last sale: $2,880 (May 28)
- Raw copies are up 26% in the same span
It’s not just Griffey’s cards seeing a bump. The broader Skybox Essential Credentials Now insert set is drawing attention, with collectors eyeing other stars from the late 90s:
- Manny Ramirez (/75)
- PSA 8: $720
- BGS 8.5: $593
- Higher-grade examples are rarely seen and could be next to pop.
PSA Cert - Manny Ramirez
- Derek Jeter (/94)
- PSA 9: Sold for $7,030
- BGS 9.5: Sold for $7,800 — both in November 2024
These cards, once considered niche pieces for player collectors, are now being reevaluated as high-end investments — especially when paired with legendary names and pristine grades.
A Swing That Still Delivers
This $280K sale is more than a headline — it’s a statement. It proves that the Griffey market is alive and well, and that true rarity, paired with nostalgia and hobby love, still has immense power.
As more collectors revisit late-90s parallels and low-numbered inserts, don’t be surprised if this Griffey sale sparks a broader wave of appreciation for players from the same era. For now, The Kid is once again the talk of the hobby — just as he should be.