Learn All About the Rickey Henderson Rookie Cards

By: Marty Beets

Rickey Henderson is the greatest leadoff hitter of all time. He finished his career as the all-time leader in stolen bases and runs scored. Henderson was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2009.

His rookie and early cards are some of the most valuable cards of the 1980s. Let's take a look at some of these vintage Rickey Henderson cards:

1980 Topps

Card #482

This is the most recognized Rickey Henderson rookie card. It is universally considered a rookie.

The 1980 Topps Rickey Henderson rookie card is the first card of Henderson as a Major League player.  An argument can be made it's the most iconic baseball card of the 1980s.

1977 Chong Modesto A’s

This is the first minor league card of Rickey Henderson. It is considered a pre-rookie.

Card #5

The Modesto A's was the single-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics.  This card predates Henderson's 1980 Topps rookie card by three years. 

1978-79 Mexican Pacific League Sticker

This sticker was produced in Mexico for a professional winter league. It is considered a pre-rookie

Card #142

This Mexican sticker was made when Rickey Henderson played in a winter league for the Navojoa Mayos. It is extremely rare.

1979 TCMA Ogden A’s

This card is from a minor league set.   It is considered a pre-rookie

Card #9

The Ogden A's was a triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. This was Henderson's last stop before the Major Leagues.  This card is more common than the previous two pre-rookies.

Rickey Henderson rookies 

1986 Pittsfield Cubs Considered a pre-rookie

1980 Topps Universally considered a rookie

1987 Topps Traded Tiffany Considered a rookie

1987 Fleer Update Considered a rookie