1989 Bowman Steve Balboni #212
Steve Balboni · Topps · Base
Player
Steve Balboni
Set
1989 Bowman
Year
1989
Card #
#212
Condition Grade
PSA 7 (Near Mint). Reasons: Significant top-to-bottom centering issues (heavy at bottom), visible corner softening on top right and bottom left, and minor edge roughness on the right side.
Category
Base
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Low. Steve Balboni was a popular power hitter but is not a Hall of Famer. This card is from the 'Junk Wax' era with extremely high production numbers.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.10 - $0.50
Graded Value
PSA 8: $5.00 - $10.00, PSA 9: $15.00 - $25.00, PSA 10: $40.00 - $60.00
Comparable Sales
Raw copies typically sell for pennies in bulk lots. Graded PSA 10s have recently sold between $45 and $55, while PSA 9s struggle to reach $20.
Description
This 1989 Bowman card features New York Yankees first baseman Steve Balboni in his classic home pinstripes. The card utilizes the iconic 1989 Bowman design, which was larger than standard cards (measuring 2-11/16 by 3-13/16 inches). It features a multi-colored neon-style border framing an action shot of 'Bye Bye' Balboni completing a swing.
Key Features
Era-specific larger card size; classic New York Yankees pinstripe photography; iconic 1989 Bowman debut set design.
Authenticity Indicators
Confidence: High. The textured card stock, specific oversized dimensions, and era-correct matte printing process are all consistent with original 1989 Bowman production. This card is not commonly counterfeited.
Flaws to Note
The card is significantly off-center top-to-bottom (approx. 80/20). There is visible wear on the corners, particularly the top-right corner, and minor surface dimpling visible under direct light.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as part of a team lot), COMC, or Sportlots. Individually, the shipping cost will likely exceed the card's value.
Selling Tips
Due to the oversized nature of 1989 Bowman, ensure you use a specifically sized 'Vintage' top loader. Grading this card is not financially recommended unless it is a perfect candidate for a PSA 10, as the grading fee far exceeds the market value of a PSA 7 or 8. Best sold as part of a Yankees fan lot or a complete 1989 Bowman set.