1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set Value
When it comes to collecting sports memorabilia, hockey cards are a favorite among enthusiasts. Among the many card sets of the past decades, the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set stands out as one of the most popular. This card set was initially produced by Bowman Inc. and released in 1990, consisting of 264 hockey cards featuring players from different teams in the National Hockey League (NHL).
This article will delve into the value of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set, provide insights on what makes it special, and offer tips on how to properly care for it. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, this guide will provide valuable information to help you understand the value of this iconic card set.
The Significance of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set
The 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set holds tremendous significance for several reasons. Firstly, it was one of the last few card sets produced by Bowman Inc., a company that had been in existence since the 1950s. In 1991, the company was bought out by Topps, and the Bowman brand was subsequently phased out. This makes the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set one of the last sets produced under the original Bowman brand.
Additionally, it was the first time Bowman had produced a hockey card set since 1954. This added a sense of novelty to the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set, as fans were eager to see what the company had in store. Finally, the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set is notable for having an attractive design and featuring top NHL players of the time.
By virtue of all these factors, the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set has become an iconic piece of hockey memorabilia. It's highly sought after by collectors, and its rarity has driven up its value over the years.
Factors Affecting the Value of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set
Several factors affect the value of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set. These include:
Rarity
As previously mentioned, the rarity of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set is a significant factor in its value. While the exact number of sets produced is unknown, it's believed to be lower than other hockey card sets of the time. This is because Bowman Inc. was scaling down its operations prior to being bought out by Topps, meaning fewer sets were produced. Additionally, the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set was only released in Canada, making it harder to come by in other parts of the world.
Condition
The condition of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set is another major factor that affects its value. Cards that are in mint condition, with no visible defects or wear, are worth much more than cards that have been damaged or show signs of wear and tear. When evaluating the condition of a card, factors like corners, edges, and centering are all taken into consideration.
Player Significance
Finally, the significance of the players featured in the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set is another factor that affects its value. Cards featuring top NHL players like Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Jaromir Jagr are worth more than those featuring lesser-known players. Similarly, cards featuring rookie players are often more valuable than those featuring established players.
Current Value of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set
As with any collectible item, the value of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set varies depending on the factors mentioned above. According to recent sales data, a complete set of the 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set in mint condition can sell for anywhere between $500 and $1,000 USD. Individual cards featuring top players can sell for even higher prices, with some Wayne Gretzky cards selling for upwards of $100 USD.
Caring for Your 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set
If you're lucky enough to own a 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set, proper care is important to ensure its longevity and maintain its value. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Store cards in protective sleeves
Protective sleeves are a must-have for any card collector. These plastic sleeves keep cards safe from dust, dirt, and other elements that can damage them over time. Make sure to use high-quality sleeves that fit the cards properly, as ill-fitting sleeves can cause damage.
Avoid exposure to sunlight
Sunlight can cause cards to fade and lose their color over time. Make sure to store your 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Handle cards with care
When handling cards, make sure to use clean hands and avoid touching the surface of the card. Fingerprints and oils can damage cards over time, so it's best to handle them as little as possible.
Conclusion
The 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set is a rare and highly sought-after piece of hockey memorabilia. Its rarity, attractive design, and the significance of the players it features have made it a popular item among collectors. If you own a 1990 Bowman Hockey Card Set, proper care is important to maintain its value over time. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your card set remains in excellent condition for years to come.
