There’s just something special about 1970s baseball cards, and for collectors who grew up in that era—or those who just appreciate its cardboard charm—there’s no shortage of legendary rookie cards from the decade.
While the 1980s saw a boom in production and popularity, the ‘70s laid the groundwork for the modern hobby.
It was an era that gave us some of the game’s all-time greats, immortalized on cardboard during their earliest days in the majors.
Here are 8 iconic, must-have rookie cards from the 1970s that remain popular and in demand today.
8 Classic ‘70s Rookie Cards
*Cards are listed in chronological order
1970 Topps Thurman Munson, Dave McDonald #189
This dual-player rookie card from the 1970 Topps set is all about one of the most beloved Yankees of the era: Thurman Munson.
Paired with Dave McDonald, it’s not the flashiest layout, but Munson’s confident pose—complete with catcher’s gear—is one of the defining rookie cards of the decade.
Unusually, Muson’s second-year 1971 Topps card, featuring the iconic action shot, is more sought-after and collectible than his rookie, but this one still remains very popular.
The gray borders of the card are notorious for showing wear, and centering can be a challenge. Copies in the highest grades are tough to find, but that only adds to the appeal for collectors.
1971 Topps Bert Blyleven #26
Bert Blyleven might not have had the flashiest career, but his numbers—and that legendary curveball—earned him a spot in Cooperstown.
His 1971 Topps rookie card shares all the same condition headaches as others from the set, with those easily chipped black borders and print defects—copies in the highest grade are almost impossible to find.
Still, for collectors who appreciate the art of pitching, Blyleven’s rookie is a hidden gem and probably the standout rookie from the set. He quietly piled up 3,701 strikeouts across 22 seasons and picked up two World Series rings along the way. A true workhorse and one of the more underrated HOF rookie cards of the ‘70s.
1973 Topps Ron Cey, John Hilton, Mike Schmidt #615
This 1973 Topps card is most notable for being the rookie card of Mike Schmidt—shared with Ron Cey and John Hilton.
Again, like the Munson rookie above, the multi-player card might not have the flashiest design, but there’s no denying its historical weight. Schmidt went on to become one of the greatest third basemen of all time, racking up 548 home runs and three MVP awards with the Phillies.
Collectors of the ‘70s will remember how this card didn’t stand out much at the time. But hindsight has a funny way of rewriting the story. Today, it’s one of the cornerstone rookie cards of the decade—and one that has only continued to rise in value as new generations of collectors discover Schmidt’s legacy.
Copies in the highest grade are hard to find, and they carry a big premium—it’s one of the most valuable cards of its time.
1974 Topps Dave Winfield #456
Big bat. Bigger personality. Dave Winfield had all the tools—and his 1974 Topps rookie card captures him before all the headlines and Hall of Fame accolades.
The value of this one doesn’t get near some on this list, but still, it’s a sought-after card and one of the 1970s’ most notable rookies.
Winfield would go on to notch over 3,000 hits, earn 12 All-Star selections, and even get drafted by multiple pro sports leagues (including the NFL and NBA).
1975 Topps Robin Yount #223
The 1975 Topps set is one of the most popular and recognizable in hobby history, thanks to its bright, two-tone borders and vibrant colors.
Sitting near the top, in terms of significance, of that unforgettable checklist is Robin Yount’s rookie card.
Yount spent his entire 20-year career with the Milwaukee Brewers, collecting over 3,000 hits and two MVP awards.
His rookie card is tough in high grade due to print defects and centering issues, but it’s a must-own for any collector who appreciates loyalty and longevity in a player.
1975 Topps George Brett #228
Another standout from the colorful 1975 Topps set, George Brett’s rookie card captures a young slugger who would go on to the HoF and define Kansas City Royals baseball.
With over 3,000 hits and a batting title in three different decades, Brett’s resume speaks for itself, and his rookie is undoubtedly one of the key baseball cards of the decade.
This card, like the Yount rookie, suffers from print issues and centering woes, so finding one in top shape is no easy task.
But even well-loved, mid-grade copies have tons of eye appeal and nostalgia for anyone who watched Brett tear it up in the ‘70s and ‘80s.
1978 Topps Eddie Murray #36
The 1978 Topps Eddie Murray rookie card is a must for any fan of classic Orioles baseball.
Murray was a model of consistency and power, finishing his career with 504 home runs and over 3,200 hits.
His rookie card has quietly become one of the better long-term investments from the era.
It’s still relatively accessible in mid-grade, but highest-grade copies continue to command strong prices due to their scarcity.
It’s a clean, classic card that hits all the right notes.
1979 Topps Ozzie Smith #116
Ozzie Smith’s 1979 Topps rookie card doesn’t scream superstar at first glance—it’s a pretty simple headshot—but its importance can’t be overstated.
Known more for his glove than his bat, Ozzie Smith became one of the most beloved shortstops in the game.
Ozzie brought flash and flair to the field, literally doing backflips during player introductions. He won 13 Gold Gloves and became the face of the St. Louis Cardinals through the 1980s.
The 1979 Topps set is relatively affordable, but The Wizard’s rookie card remains the gem of the bunch and a must-have among ‘70s baseball cards.
