1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards
If you're a collector of hockey cards, chances are you've come across Upper Deck cards at some point. Known for their high-quality cards and attention to detail, Upper Deck has produced some of the most sought-after cards in the industry. And one set that stands out from the rest is the 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards.
History of 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards
The Upper Deck Company was founded in 1988 and made an immediate impact on the sports card industry. Their first set, the 1989 Upper Deck Baseball Cards, were a game-changer in the industry, featuring high-quality cardstock, glossy images, and anti-counterfeit holograms. The success of the baseball cards led Upper Deck to create sets for other sports, including hockey.
The 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards set consisted of 550 cards, featuring players from all 21 NHL teams at the time. Each pack contained 15 cards and had a suggested retail price of $1.49. The set was a hit with collectors, with many considering it one of the best hockey sets ever produced.
Card Design
The design of the 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards set was ahead of its time. The cards featured a white border with a blue and red stripe at the top and bottom. The player's name and team were printed in red at the top of the card, while the team logo was featured in the upper-left corner. The card's image was glossy and featured a close-up of the player, making the cards stand out from other sets at the time.
One design element that collectors love about this set is the inclusion of a French-language translation on the back of each card. This was a nod to the large number of French-speaking players in the NHL at the time.
Key Cards in the Set
Like any card set, there are certain cards in the 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards set that are considered more valuable or desirable than others. Here are a few of the key cards to look out for:
- Wayne Gretzky (#46) - The Great One's card is always a must-have for collectors.
- Patrick Roy (#120) - One of the greatest goalies of all time, Roy's card is highly sought-after.
- Steve Yzerman (#53) - The longtime Detroit Red Wings captain is a fan favorite.
- Brett Hull (#123) - One of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history, Hull's card is highly valued.
- Brian Leetch (#95) - The New York Rangers defenseman won the Norris Trophy as the league's best defenseman in 1992.
Value of 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards
The value of 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards can vary greatly depending on the card's condition and rarity. As with any collectible, the value is determined by supply and demand. Some of the key cards in the set can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars if they're in pristine condition.
A quick search on eBay shows that a complete set of 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards in near-mint condition can sell for around $500. Individual cards can range from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on the player and condition.
Conclusion
Whether you're a fan of hockey or just a collector of sports cards, the 1989-90 Upper Deck Hockey Cards set is a must-have. With its high-quality design, inclusion of French-language translations, and selection of key players, this set is a true gem for collectors. And with some cards fetching high prices, it can be a valuable investment for those looking to buy or sell.
