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While sports card collectors generally shy away from investing in relief pitchers, Mariano Rivera rookie cards might be an exception.
One of the no brainer selections into the Hall of Fame in 2019, Mariano Rivera has had a stellar career earning his position as one of the best (if not, the best) closers in the game.
The Yankees legend recorded 652 saves (MLB record) and 952 games finished (another MLB record) to go along with his 1,173 strikeouts, 2.21 ERA and 1.00 WHIP.
Here’s a couple of his “rookie” cards worth collecting and/or investing in and a bonus selection (with links to bid/buy on eBay).
1. 1992 Bowman Baseball Mariano Rivera rookie card #302
Considered his only true rookie card, Rivera in his 1992 Bowman Baseball rookie is pretty affordable.
A PSA 10 is currently available for around $300 (although that might change with his induction into the Hall of Fame).
He’s also dressed very casually in the photo making this set particularly memorable.
2. 1990 Diamond Mariano Rivera rookie card #17
For hardcore collectors, this Rivera card, which came out two years before the 1992 Bowman rookie, is more rare and has more monetary value.
It’s his first baseball card featuring the very young-looking reliever and the ones that are graded a PSA 10 is selling for more than $1,000.
BONUS: 1996 Leaf Signature Series Mariano Rivera baseball card
Because Rivera didn’t have many rookie cards like other players did, here’s an extra baseball card collectors can consider addition to their personal collection.
His 1996 Leaf Signature Series card is his first autograph card with Rivera in his pinstripes.
There are three variations of the card indicated by the color of the foil stamp (bronze, silver, gold).
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