On September 22, 2025, three Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Upper Deck rookie cards, graded PSA 10, were sold through the prominent seller Probstein for prices of $3,800 each, and $3,950. For many collectors not actively monitoring the market, these numbers might seem perplexing concerning the card’s price history. However, avid Griffey enthusiasts recognize this date as significant; it marked the last instance the card sold for under $4,000.
Since then, the Griffey rookie card has demonstrated resilience, maintaining its price above $4,000. Recent trends indicate that it may be on the verge of reaching the coveted $5,000 mark, also known in collector circles as G5K. Several factors suggest this milestone may be closer than anticipated.
Looking at recent sales data from the card tracking site Card Ladder, the four latest sales of the Griffey card ranged from $4,415 to $4,699, giving a “Card Ladder Value” of $4,550. Although this remains shy of the $5,000 mark, the trajectory clearly points upward, hinting at an atmosphere of increasing demand.
In evaluating current listings, a PSA 10 Griffey card is available on eBay for $4,500 or best offer. However, U.S.-based collectors should be wary of current tariffs that could add a significant markup on any cards shipped from Canada. The lowest U.S. listing sits at $4,750, with other offerings starting at $4,995, showcasing a diminishing availability of cards priced under $5,000. This tightening market environment adds to the anticipation surrounding the card’s potential rise.
Moreover, three ongoing eBay auctions could play a pivotal role in driving the card’s price upward. While these auctions are not yet at the $5,000 mark, the dynamic nature of bidding often results in last-minute spikes as deadlines approach.
Historically, the Griffey card has reached the $5,000 threshold before, notably at a Goldin Auctions event this past September and during the pandemic’s peak buying spree. However, these instances were often followed by a quick reversion in prices, indicating the volatility that can accompany collectible markets.
While it remains uncertain whether the Griffey rookie card will achieve and sustain the $5,000 price point, current market indicators and sale trends underscore that it is a real possibility in the near future. Collectors are watching closely, reflecting the card’s importance not just as a piece of memorabilia but as a symbol of the vibrant card-collecting community. The evolution of this iconic card continues to captivate fans and investors alike, serving as a testament to Griffey’s lasting legacy in the sports world.