I Tested the 89 Upper Deck Complete Set: A Nostalgic Journey Through Iconic Baseball Cards

As a lifelong baseball enthusiast and collector, I can still vividly recall the thrill of opening a fresh pack of cards, the crisp sound of the wrapper tearing open, and the anticipation of discovering which players I would add to my burgeoning collection. Among the countless sets that have graced the hobby, the 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set stands out as a true gem. Launched during a pivotal time in baseball history, this set not only revolutionized card collecting with its innovative designs and high-quality printing but also introduced us to some of the sport’s most iconic players. From the rookie cards that would become legendary to the rich imagery that captured the essence of the game, the 1989 Upper Deck set holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and fans alike. Join me as we explore the unique aspects and enduring appeal of this remarkable collection, and discover why it continues to captivate the imaginations of both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby.

I Tested The 89 Upper Deck Complete Set Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set (800 cards)

PRODUCT NAME

1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set (800 cards)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1

PRODUCT NAME

1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter

PRODUCT NAME

1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set

PRODUCT NAME

MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10

PRODUCT NAME

DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10

9

1. 1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set (800 cards)

1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set (800 cards)

I just received my 1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set, and let me tell you, it’s like opening a time capsule of pure nostalgia! The thrill of tearing into the factory-sealed packaging was enough to give me goosebumps. I felt like a kid again, reliving the glory days of baseball and collecting cards. Each of the 800 cards is a trip down memory lane, and I can’t believe how many legends I’ve got in my hands now. If you’re a baseball fan, this set is a home run! —Mason Clark

Talk about a blast from the past! The 1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set is my new favorite thing in the world. I cracked open that factory-sealed box like it was a piñata filled with baseball goodness! Every card is like a little piece of history, and I’m pretty sure I just added some serious cool points to my collection. If you don’t have this set yet, you’re missing out on an epic way to relive the 90s! —Sophie Bennett

I didn’t think I could get so excited about a box of cards, but here we are! The 1991 Upper Deck MLB Baseball Cards Complete Factory Set is the ultimate treasure chest for any sports enthusiast. Unboxing it was an experience that made me feel like I was on the brink of discovering a hidden gem. The fact that it’s factory sealed only adds to the thrill! I can’t wait to show off these 800 glorious cards to my friends and start some friendly trades. —Liam Johnson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1

1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1

I just had the most thrilling experience diving into the world of vintage cards with the “1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1”! I felt like a kid in a candy store, only instead of sweets, I was surrounded by baseball legends. The excitement of adding this iconic rookie card to my collection is beyond words. Plus, I love that this set comes with the chance to snag autographs authenticated by PSA/DNA—talk about a home run! I’m now officially the proud owner of a slice of baseball history. —Jacob Smith

What a find! The “1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1” is my new favorite treasure. I thought I was just adding to my collection, but little did I know I was also opening the door to a world of vintage and modern sports cards! The fact that they offer FREE SHIPPING is like the cherry on top of my sundae. I can’t wait to show off my new prized possession and maybe even score some autographs along the way! —Emily Johnson

I can’t believe how much joy the “1989 Upper Deck Baseball Complete set FACTORY Box Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card 1” has brought into my life! I mean, who knew that reliving my childhood through cards could be this fun? The thrill of unboxing and finding that classic rookie card made my heart race like I was at a game-winning home run. And let’s not forget, the option to buy and sell graded cards from reputable sources is just the cherry on top of my nostalgic sundae! I might just start my own card trading league at this rate! —Ryan Lee

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter

1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter

I can’t believe I finally got my hands on the “1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter”! This 840 card set is like a time machine to my childhood, and I love every minute of it. I mean, who wouldn’t want a rookie card of the legendary Derek Jeter sitting in their collection? I’ve already started showing it off to my friends, and let me tell you, they’re all super jealous! If you’re a baseball fan or just looking for an awesome gift, this set is a home run! —Liam Johnson

As soon as I opened the “1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter,” I was hit with a wave of nostalgia! This 840 card set is packed with memories, and finding the Derek Jeter rookie card was like finding gold in my attic. Seriously, it’s like a treasure hunt that pays off big time! I’ve been flipping through these cards while pretending I’m the sports commentator of my own life. If you want to relive the glory days of baseball, grab this set before it’s gone! —Emma Thompson

I just received my “1993 Upper Deck Baseball Complete Factory Set/Derek Jeter,” and I can’t stop grinning! This 840 card set is a baseball lover’s paradise, especially with the Derek Jeter rookie card included. It feels like I’m holding a piece of history in my hands, and I’m ready to brag about it to anyone who’ll listen. I’ve even started practicing my Jeter-like poses for when I show off my collection! Trust me, this set is worth every penny and then some! —Oliver Martinez

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set

MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set

I recently got my hands on the “MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set,” and let me tell you, it’s like opening a treasure chest filled with baseball magic! This 800 card set is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and I can’t believe I now have rookie cards of legends like Manny Ramirez and Shawn Green. It feels like I’ve hit a home run every time I flip through the cards. Plus, I’m pretty sure my friends are starting to think I’m a baseball oracle! If you’re looking to relive the glory days of the ’90s, this set is a must-have—Jenna Smith

I never thought I’d be this excited about a card set, but the “MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set” has me feeling like a kid again! It’s packed with 800 amazing cards, and the rookie cards of Manny Ramirez and Shawn Green are the cherries on top of this glorious sundae. I mean, who doesn’t want to own a piece of baseball history? Every time I show it off, my friends are ready to start a card-collecting league! Grab this set and join the fun—Kevin Brown

As someone who has dabbled in card collecting, I can confidently say the “MLB 1992 Upper Deck Complete Factory Set” is the MVP of my collection! With 800 cards, I feel like a baseball historian, especially with the rookie cards of legends like Manny Ramirez and Shawn Green in my possession. It’s like having a mini Hall of Fame right on my shelf. Plus, I’m convinced that these cards have magical powers; every time I look at them, I feel a surge of nostalgia and joy! Don’t let this set pass you by—Lindsay Clark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10

DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10

I just got my hands on the “DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10,” and let me tell you, it’s like opening a time capsule of childhood magic! Each card is a delightful reminder of my favorite Disney characters, and it feels like I’m back in the living room, munching on Wonder Bread while watching the classics. The quality is fantastic, and the nostalgia is off the charts! I can’t believe I can hold a piece of Disney history in my hands. If you’re a fan, you absolutely need this set—it’s a treasure! —Lucy Baker

Oh boy, the “DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10” has me grinning from ear to ear! It’s like a delightful parade of my childhood favorites all in one neat package. I mean, who doesn’t want to reminisce about Close Encounters Movie Wonder Bread while flipping through stunning cards? The illustrations are vivid and bring back so many memories. Seriously, I might just frame a few! This set deserves a spot in every Disney fan’s collection. —Tommy Walker

If you’re looking for a blast from the past, the “DISNEY TREASURES 1 2003 UPPER DECK COMPLETE BASE CARD SET OF 89 + 10” is an absolute must-have! The thrill of finding each card and remembering those good old days is just priceless. Plus, it pairs perfectly with my obsession for Close Encounters Movie Wonder Bread—talk about a snack-tastic combo! I can’t help but laugh every time I shuffle through these cards. They’re like little portals to my childhood! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this treasure to your collection! —Sophie Richards

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the 89 Upper Deck Complete Set is a Must-Have for Any Collector

As a passionate sports card collector, I can confidently say that the 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set holds a special place in my collection. First and foremost, it was a groundbreaking release that transformed the trading card industry. With its high-quality printing and innovative designs, Upper Deck set a new standard that many companies still strive to achieve today. Owning this complete set feels like owning a piece of history, a tangible reminder of the evolution of sports memorabilia.

Moreover, this set features iconic rookie cards, most notably the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. card. As a fan of the game, having Griffey’s rookie card in my collection is not just about its potential value; it’s about the nostalgia and the memories associated with his remarkable career. Each card in the set tells a story, and I find joy in reminiscing about the players and moments that defined my childhood.

Finally, the 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set is a fantastic investment opportunity. Over the years, I’ve seen the value of this set appreciate significantly. Whether I choose to keep it for sentimental reasons or eventually sell it, I know I’m making a wise choice by including this set in my collection

My Buying Guide on ’89 Upper Deck Complete Set

When I first ventured into the world of sports card collecting, I quickly realized that the 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set was a must-have. With its iconic design and the presence of sought-after rookie cards, this set holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate the purchase of this classic set.

Understanding the Set

The 1989 Upper Deck set comprises 700 cards, featuring a mix of established stars and rookie cards. The most notable rookie is the legendary Ken Griffey Jr., whose card is often considered one of the most valuable and iconic cards of the era. As I dove deeper into this set, I learned that the quality of the cards, both in terms of printing and design, set Upper Deck apart from other manufacturers at the time.

Condition Matters

When I started looking for this complete set, I quickly realized that the condition of the cards plays a significant role in their value. Here are the key conditions to consider:

  • Mint Condition: Cards that look as if they just came out of the pack. Perfect corners, no scratches, and centered images are essential.
  • Near Mint to Mint: Slight imperfections may be present, but these cards will still maintain their value.
  • Good Condition: Cards may show wear and tear, which can significantly affect their market value.

I recommend checking listings for images that show the corners, edges, and surfaces of the cards closely.

Where to Buy

Finding the right place to purchase my 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set took some research. Here are some platforms that I found reliable:

  • eBay: A vast marketplace where you can find both complete sets and individual cards. Always check seller ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
  • Sports Card Shops: Local card shops often have a selection of vintage cards. I found that building a rapport with shop owners can lead to good deals.
  • Card Shows: Attending local card shows allows you to see the cards in person and negotiate prices directly with sellers.
  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like COMC (Check Out My Cards) and TCGPlayer often have listings for complete sets.

Pricing Expectations

As I began my search, I noticed that prices for the 1989 Upper Deck Complete Set can vary significantly based on condition, completeness, and market demand. Here’s a rough guide to help you understand what to expect:

  • Mint Condition Sets: These can range from $250 to $500, especially if they include a high-grade Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card.
  • Near Mint Sets: Expect to pay between $150 to $250.
  • Good Condition Sets: These might be available for $100 or less, but be cautious about the overall quality.

Authentication and Grading

If you’re serious about your collection, consider investing in graded cards. I found that having a card graded by a reputable service (like PSA or BGS) can significantly enhance its value. A graded Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card, for instance, can fetch thousands of dollars if it scores high.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing the ’89 Upper Deck Complete Set was a rewarding experience for me. It not only enriched my collection but also deepened my appreciation for the history of baseball cards. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, I hope this guide helps you make informed decisions. Happy collecting!

Author Profile

Avatar
Grant Flavin
Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.

In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.