Top 30 Babe Ruth Baseball Cards

Few names in sports history carry as much weight as Babe Ruth. The Sultan of Swat, the Great Bambino, the man who changed the game forever—his legacy isn’t just in the record books, but also in some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever produced. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your sports collectibles journey, owning a Babe Ruth baseball card is like holding a piece of history in your hands.

But with so many Babe Ruth baseball cards out there, how do you know which ones truly stand out? From ultra-rare vintage finds to modern collector’s favorites, we’ve put together the Top 30 Babe Ruth baseball cards every collector should know about. These aren’t just cards; they’re investments, treasures, and symbols of baseball greatness.

In this list, we’ll break down each card’s history, value, and significance, along with key details like sale prices, grades, and auction locations. So, whether you're hunting for a Babe Ruth signed baseball card, searching for the cheapest Babe Ruth baseball card, or eyeing a Babe Ruth autograph card, this guide has you covered.

Let’s step up to the plate and check out The Bambino’s greatest cardboard treasures! ⚾🔥

TOP 10 Most Valuable Babe Ruth Cards in History

1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth – $7,200,000 (2023)
1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie #151 – $1,770,000 (2023)
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #149 – $1,620,000 (2024)
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144 – $1,065,000 (2023)
1917 Collins-McCarthy (E135) Babe Ruth #147 – $660,000 (2021)
1933 Sport Kings Signed #2 Babe Ruth – $471,042 (2024)
1932 U.S. Caramel Babe Ruth #32 – $432,000 (2019)
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth AUTO – $288,000 (2022)
1931 W517 #4 Babe Ruth Throwing – $150,000 (2022)
2020 Panini Flawless Dual Cuts #FDC-RG Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig Dual-Signed Card (#1/1) – $127,200 (2023)
2020 Panini Flawless Dual Cuts #FDC-RG Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig Dual-Signed Card (#1/1) – $127,200 (2023)

Most Valuable Babe Ruth Baseball Cards To Collect (TOP PICKS)

1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth – The ultimate Babe Ruth card, widely regarded as his true rookie card. With only about ten known copies, this is one of the rarest and most valuable baseball cards ever.
1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie #151 – The first major league card of Babe Ruth, showing him as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. It’s a must-have for serious collectors due to its historical significance.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144 – Part of one of the most famous vintage baseball card sets, this card features an iconic image of Ruth at the peak of his career with the New York Yankees.
1917 Collins-McCarthy (E135) Babe Ruth #147 – Extremely rare, this card is often overshadowed by the 1916 M101-4, but it is one of the earliest Babe Ruth cards issued. Few high-grade examples exist today.
1932 U.S. Caramel Babe Ruth #32 – A scarce pre-war card with a unique red background, this card gained fame as it was produced right around the time of Ruth’s “Called Shot” in the World Series.

TOP 30 Most Valuable Babe Ruth Cards

30. 1927 W560 Hand Cut Joker Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 30
Sale Price: $20,408
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 10

The 1927 W560 Babe Ruth Joker card is a true collector’s gem, capturing The Bambino at the peak of his dominance with the legendary Murderers' Row Yankees. Unlike traditional trading cards, the W560 series was a deck of playing cards featuring baseball stars, making this Joker card one of the most unique Babe Ruth collectibles out there.

What makes this particular card truly astonishing is its GEM MINT 10 grade from PSA—an almost impossible feat for a hand-cut card from nearly a century ago. Out of only 75 copies recorded in PSA’s census, this is just one of two to achieve this flawless rating. Its razor-sharp edges, crisp borders, and fresh factory-like appearance make it a holy grail for serious collectors.

Beyond its rarity, the card represents Ruth at the height of his career, leading the Yankees to a 1927 World Series victory while crushing 60 home runs—a record that stood for over three decades. This playing card-style oddball is a perfect blend of history, scarcity, and condition, making it a must-have in any serious Babe Ruth collection.

29. 2005 Leaf Limited Lumberjacks Bat Barrel #LJ-4 Babe Ruth Relic Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 29
Sale Price: $20,866
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: BGS 9

This one-of-a-kind Babe Ruth relic card is a true treasure for collectors. The 2005 Leaf Limited Lumberjacks Bat Barrel features an authentic game-used bat piece, with Ruth’s name inscribed on the barrel. It’s a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of baseball history from the Sultan of Swat himself.

Graded Mint 9 by BGS, this card boasts strong centering, crisp edges, and impressive surface quality, preserving its condition despite being a unique relic card. As a serial-numbered 1/1, this is the only card of its kind in existence, making it highly desirable among collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia.

Babe Ruth’s impact on the game is unmatched—his ability to revolutionize baseball with his home runs made him the sport’s first true superstar. A Babe Ruth bat relic is the closest thing to holding history in your hands, and this card is a premium example of sports collectibles at their finest.

28. 2001 Upper Deck Legends Of NY Cut Signature Babe Ruth AUTO

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 28
Sale Price: $21,600
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: PSA 10

Few names are as synonymous with baseball as Babe Ruth, and this 2001 Upper Deck Legends of NY Cut Signature Card is a stunning tribute to his legendary career. Featuring a bold, authentic signature of The Babe, this card captures a piece of baseball history in a way few collectibles can.

Graded PSA 10, this flawless cut signature is among the most coveted autographs in the hobby. Upper Deck's Legends of New York series was designed to celebrate Yankees greats, and Ruth, being the face of the franchise, naturally stands out as the most valuable card in the set.

Ruth’s autographs are among the most sought-after in the entire sports collectibles market, and this pristine, high-grade example is a dream piece for any serious collector. Whether you're a trading card investor or a die-hard Yankees fan, this Babe Ruth auto is the ultimate addition to any collection.

27. 2004 Donruss Timeless Treasures HOF Materials #HOF-2 Babe Ruth Signed Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 27
Sale Price: $22,800
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: BGS 8.5

A true one-of-a-kind masterpiece, this 2004 Donruss Timeless Treasures HOF Materials card features an authentic cut signature of Babe Ruth and a piece of game-used memorabilia. The bold black ink autograph is among the most stunning Ruth signatures found in the modern era of sports trading cards.

Graded BGS 8.5, this high-end collectible is highly sought after for its combination of historic memorabilia and pristine signature quality. Babe Ruth’s influence on baseball remains unparalleled, and owning a signed Babe Ruth baseball card like this is an investment in history.

Collectors continue to chase rare Babe Ruth autographs, making this Donruss Timeless Treasures issue one of the most desirable Babe Ruth memorabilia pieces in the modern collecting world.

26. 2019 Panini Diamond Kings Materials Masterpiece Babe Ruth PATCH AUTO 1/1

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 26
Sale Price: $27,000
Sale Year: 2024
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: BGS 9

A true modern-day masterpiece, this 2019 Panini Diamond Kings Materials Masterpiece Babe Ruth Patch Auto 1/1 is a highly coveted piece among collectors. This one-of-a-kind card not only features a rare Ruth autograph, but also an authentic game-used jersey patch, making it a dual-threat collectible.

The signature on this card is unique, as it features Ruth’s “GH Ruth” autograph, a rarity compared to his traditional signed items. Additionally, the patch comes from the inside of a Babe Ruth uniform, specifically showcasing the “abe” from “Babe”, making it one of the most valuable pieces of memorabilia embedded in a card.

Graded BGS 9, this card is a must-have for any serious collector. Whether you’re chasing signed Babe Ruth cards or looking for modern baseball cards with vintage elements, this Panini Diamond Kings Masterpiece is a collector’s dream.

25. 1919-21 W514 #2 Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 25
Sale Price: $30,292
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 7

This 1919-21 W514 Babe Ruth card is one of the earliest representations of Ruth in a Yankees uniform after his groundbreaking trade from the Boston Red Sox. At the time, Ruth was already revolutionizing baseball by introducing the power-hitting era, and this card captures him in the early years of his dominance in New York.

The W514 series is part of a hand-cut strip card set, making high-grade examples like this PSA 7 extremely rare. The card features a colorful, simple design that was common for strip cards of the time, with Ruth boldly labeled as “Home Run King”—a title he had already earned despite being in the early stages of his Yankees career.

Collectors prize this card for its historical significance, as it represents Ruth’s transition from a star pitcher to the greatest slugger the game had ever seen. The fact that this high-grade example survived over 100 years makes it a standout piece in any Babe Ruth collection.

24. 2003 UD SP Legendary Cuts Green Autograph #BA Babe Ruth Cut Signature Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 24
Sale Price: $32,400
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA/DNA

This 2003 UD SP Legendary Cuts Green Autograph Babe Ruth card is a stunning modern tribute to one of baseball’s greatest icons. Featuring an authentic cut signature of Babe Ruth, this 1/1 card is a true masterpiece for collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia.

Graded Authentic by PSA/DNA, this card captures Ruth’s signature in pencil, a rarity that adds to its historical charm. The SP Legendary Cuts series is known for bringing the game’s greatest players back to life through autographed relics, and this Babe Ruth auto is among the most desirable pieces in the entire series.

With Ruth’s impact on baseball still unmatched, owning a Babe Ruth autograph card like this is a dream for any collector. Whether you're a sports trading card enthusiast or an investor looking for rare memorabilia, this SP Legendary Cuts 1/1 is a true gem.

23. 2004 Playoff Prime Cuts Timeline Material Signature Combo #TL-4 Babe Ruth Signed Relic Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 23
Sale Price: $35,380
Sale Year: 2024
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: BGS 9.5

The 2004 Playoff Prime Cuts Timeline Material Signature Combo featuring Babe Ruth’s autograph and game-worn relics is a dream card for collectors. This 1/1 card contains two pieces of game-worn memorabilia, showcasing Ruth’s career with the Yankees and Red Sox.

Graded BGS 9.5, this card boasts exceptional condition, with crisp edges, a bold signature, and stunning presentation. The Prime Cuts series is well known for its high-end memorabilia cards, and this is one of the most desirable Babe Ruth cards ever produced.

Collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia and serious sports card investors will appreciate the rarity and significance of this signed Babe Ruth baseball card. A true one-of-a-kind piece that celebrates The Babe’s legendary impact on the game.

22. 1922 E120 American Caramel Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 22
Sale Price: $46,260
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 4

This 1922 E120 American Caramel Babe Ruth card is a classic from the early 1920s, capturing Ruth during his prime years with the Yankees. The E120 series was one of the most beautifully designed caramel card sets, featuring high-quality black-and-white player portraits.

Graded PSA 4, this card is among the best surviving examples from the set. The simple yet elegant design makes it a standout piece, and its historical significance—coming just after Ruth’s record-breaking home run seasons—adds even more value. Its strong babe ruth baseball card value makes it a highly sought-after item among collectors who appreciate vintage baseball cards.

Collectors looking for early Babe Ruth baseball cards will find this American Caramel issue to be one of the most sought-after pieces in the hobby. It’s a must-have for fans of vintage baseball cards and those who appreciate the artistry of early trading cards.

21. 1922 E121 American Caramel Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 21
Sale Price: $51,600
Sale Year: 2019
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 9

Another stunning Babe Ruth vintage card, the 1922 E121 American Caramel is one of the most coveted Ruth cards from the pre-war era. Featuring an early photo montage of The Babe, this card is both unique and historically significant.

Graded PSA 9, this is one of the finest examples known to exist, making it an incredible find for collectors. The E121 series was one of the earliest to feature Ruth in his Yankees uniform, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

For collectors of Babe Ruth baseball cards and fans of early sports collectibles, this card represents one of the best investments in the hobby. Its near-mint condition and historical value make it a truly remarkable piece of baseball history.

20. 1929 R316 Kashin Publications Signed Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 20
Sale Price: $56,730
Sale Year: 2024
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 9

This 1929 R316 Kashin Publications Babe Ruth card is an absolute treasure for collectors, featuring a bold black fountain pen signature from The Babe himself. The Kashin series, produced in 1929, was an oversized set featuring baseball's biggest names. Ruth's inclusion is no surprise—by this time, he had already cemented himself as the face of baseball.

This particular card is one of only two PSA-authenticated signed copies, making it one of the rarest Babe Ruth autographed baseball cards in existence. The clarity of the signature is impeccable, grading PSA 9, and it sits beautifully across his pinstriped Yankees uniform.

For fans of Babe Ruth memorabilia, this is one of the most important signed cards ever produced. With its oversized format, rarity, and stunning autograph, it is a centerpiece item in any sports collectibles collection.

19. 1926-29 Exhibits P.C. Babe Ruth Bat Follow Through Blank Back

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 19
Sale Price: $58,800
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 8

This 1926-29 Exhibits Babe Ruth card is a beautiful example of Ruth’s legendary bat follow-through pose, an image that perfectly encapsulates his power-hitting dominance. The Exhibits series was widely distributed in the 1920s and 1930s and featured larger-than-usual cards, making high-grade examples extremely difficult to find.

Graded PSA 8, this card is one of the highest-graded examples in existence. The full-body batting pose captures Ruth in his prime, leading the Yankees through multiple championship runs. These Exhibits cards were often sold in vending machines, making their survival in high condition a rarity.

For Babe Ruth collectors, this card is an absolute gem—a large-format collectible featuring one of baseball’s most iconic swings, preserved in near-mint condition.

18. 2005 SP Legendary Cuts Quad Babe Ruth Mickey Mantle Williams Foxx AUTO 1/1

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 18
Sale Price: $63,000
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: PSA 8

A true dream card for baseball collectors, this 2005 SP Legendary Cuts Quad Autograph card features four of the greatest players ever—Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, and Jimmie Foxx. This one-of-a-kind collectible brings together an unbelievable lineup of legends, each with an authentic cut signature.

Graded PSA 8, this card is a true work of art, perfectly blending sports history and rare autographs. Ruth’s signature alone makes this card valuable, but when combined with the autographs of Mantle, Williams, and Foxx, it becomes one of the most significant signed baseball cards ever produced.

For sports trading card collectors, this SP Legendary Cuts 1/1 is the ultimate fusion of historic greatness and investment-worthy rarity. Simply put—this card is museum-worthy.

17. 1923 W515-1, Hand Cut #47 "Babe" Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 17
Sale Price: $63,600
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 10

This 1923 W515-1 Babe Ruth card is a stunning hand-cut strip card from an era when baseball cards were often distributed in sheets, requiring collectors to cut them out by hand. Amazingly, this PSA 10 Gem Mint example has survived a full century in flawless condition.

The W515 series features a simplistic but bold design, with a cartoon-like color image of Ruth in his Yankees uniform. The fact that a hand-cut strip card received a PSA 10 grade is nearly unheard of, making this a one-of-a-kind piece of history.

Collectors searching for rare Babe Ruth trading cards will appreciate the uniqueness of this issue, its high grade, and its connection to the early days of baseball cards. This is a true historical artifact.

16. 1925 Exhibit Champions Babe Ruth PSA

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 16
Sale Price: $66,000
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 4

This 1925 Exhibit Champions Babe Ruth card is an extremely scarce collectible, featuring Ruth in a striking full-body pose. Produced as part of the Exhibit Supply Company’s multi-sport “World’s Champions” set, this card stands out as one of the hardest-to-find Babe Ruth issues.

Graded PSA 4, this is one of only a handful of known examples. These Exhibit cards were distributed in arcades and vending machines, making their survival in good condition extremely difficult. The fact that only one baseball player—Babe Ruth—was included in the set speaks volumes about his dominance and popularity.

For collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia, this card is an essential addition to any serious collection. It represents not just baseball history but the evolution of sports collectibles.

15. 1922 V89 William Paterson Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 15
Sale Price: $69,000
Sale Year: 2020
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 6

The 1922 V89 William Paterson Babe Ruth card is an incredibly rare Canadian issue, making it a holy grail for collectors. This set, issued by William Paterson Ltd., a Canadian candy company, featured only 50 players, with Ruth being the crown jewel.

Graded PSA 6, this is the highest-graded example known among the only three PSA-graded copies in existence. The photo of a young Babe Ruth makes this card stand out, offering a stunning image of the slugger in his prime.

Because of its rarity, this card ranks among the most valuable Babe Ruth baseball cards, appealing to serious sports card investors and collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia.

14. 1922 E121 American Caramel Babe Ruth (Holding Ball)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 14
Sale Price: $75,000
Sale Year: 2019
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 9

The 1922 E121 American Caramel Babe Ruth (Holding Ball) card is one of the earliest issues to feature Ruth exclusively as a Yankee. It belongs to the E121 caramel card series, which was widely distributed with candy products in the early 1920s.

Graded PSA 9, this is the only known copy at this grade, making it a one-of-a-kind Babe Ruth baseball card. The sharp black-and-white image showcases Ruth’s presence on the field, reflecting his dominance in baseball’s golden age.

For collectors looking for Babe Ruth trading cards worth money, this high-grade caramel issue is one of the most significant pre-war cards still in circulation.

13. 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 13
Sale Price: $90,000
Sale Year: 2020
Sale Location: Robert Edward Auction
Grade: BGS 9

The 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth card is one of the earliest and most sought-after Exhibit cards of The Babe. Issued by the Exhibit Supply Company, these oversized baseball cards were often sold in arcades and vending machines, making them incredibly difficult to find in good condition.

Graded BGS 9, this card is one of the highest-graded examples in existence. The image of Ruth in a fielder’s stance, paired with its rarity, makes this one of the most valuable baseball cards from the early 1920s. Its Babe Ruth card value has continued to rise, making it an essential piece for collectors seeking historic sports memorabilia.

Collectors of sports collectibles and high-value baseball cards will appreciate the significance of this Exhibit series Ruth, as it represents a key moment in trading card history.

12. 1948 Leaf Babe Ruth #3

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 12
Sale Price: $102,000
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: PSA 8

One of the last major cards to feature Babe Ruth, the 1948 Leaf Babe Ruth #3 is a historic piece of post-war sports memorabilia. This was one of the first major baseball card sets produced after World War II, and Ruth’s inclusion was a tribute to his lasting impact on the game.

Graded PSA 8, this card is notoriously difficult to find in high grades due to centering issues and print defects common in the 1948 Leaf set. The bold red background and strong portrait of Ruth make it an eye-catching addition to any collection.

For collectors of Babe Ruth baseball cards, this Leaf issue is considered a must-have due to its historical significance and high demand.

11. 2004 Donruss Timeless Treasures Home Away Gamers Signature #HA-1 Babe Ruth Signed Game-Worn Relic Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 11
Sale Price: $103,200
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: BGS 7.5

A modern masterpiece, this 2004 Donruss Timeless Treasures Home Away Gamers Signature card is a one-of-a-kind 1/1 Babe Ruth relic featuring both a game-worn jersey swatch and his signature. This dual memorabilia card is one of the rarest Babe Ruth autographs ever released in a modern set.

Graded BGS 7.5, the card maintains strong visual appeal, with the signature graded a 9 by Beckett. The dual swatches include both home and away game-worn jerseys, making this one of the most unique Babe Ruth trading cards for sale.

For fans of modern baseball card boxes, sports card investors, and rookie card hunters, this Babe Ruth 1/1 auto is a high-end collector’s dream.

10. 2020 Panini Flawless Dual Cuts #FDC-RG Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig Dual-Signed Card (#1/1)

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 10
Sale Price: $127,200
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: BGS 10

Few cards in sports card history compare to this 2020 Panini Flawless Dual Cuts Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig dual-autograph card. Featuring signatures from two of the most iconic Yankees players of all time, this 1/1 card is among the most coveted modern Babe Ruth cards.

Graded BGS 10, this card is perfect in every way, from its flawless dual signatures to its elegant Panini Flawless design. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig formed one of the greatest duos in MLB history, and their combined autographs make this a truly historic piece.

For collectors of high-end baseball cards, this dual-auto card is among the most valuable and sought-after Panini baseball cards ever produced. Simply put, this is a sports collectibles grail.

9. 1931 W517 #4 Babe Ruth Throwing

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 9
Sale Price: $150,000
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Robert Edward Auction
Grade: PSA/DNA

The 1931 W517 Babe Ruth card is one of the most visually striking Babe Ruth baseball cards from the early 1930s. This hand-cut strip card features Ruth in a rare throwing pose, setting it apart from his more common batting images.

What makes this particular card so extraordinary is that it is autographed by Babe Ruth himself. The signature is certified authentic by PSA/DNA, making it one of the few known signed Babe Ruth baseball cards from this era. The PSA encapsulation ensures the card’s authenticity, adding significant value for serious collectors.

This piece is a true rarity in the world of trading cards, appealing to both sports memorabilia investors and vintage card collectors alike.

8. 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth AUTO

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 8
Sale Price: $288,000
Sale Year: 2022
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: PSA 9

The 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth Autograph card is one of the most desirable Babe Ruth signed cards in existence. While the 1933 Goudey set produced some of the most famous baseball cards ever, finding a Babe Ruth Goudey card with an authentic signature is exceptionally rare.

Graded PSA 9, this autographed Babe Ruth baseball card features one of the boldest and darkest signatures of The Babe ever seen on a card. Unlike many faded Ruth autos, this one has maintained crisp ink clarity, making it one of the best-preserved signed Goudey Ruths known.

For collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia, this card is a true investment piece, representing a perfect blend of vintage charm and autograph rarity.

7. 1932 U.S. Caramel Babe Ruth #32

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 7
Sale Price: $432,000
Sale Year: 2019
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 9

The 1932 U.S. Caramel Babe Ruth card is a highly sought-after pre-war baseball card that showcases The Babe in one of his last playing years. The U.S. Caramel set is notoriously difficult to complete due to its short print runs, and Ruth’s card is one of the most valuable of the entire series.

Graded PSA 9, this is one of only two known examples at this grade, with none graded higher. The deep red background and Ruth’s intense portrait give this card a striking visual appeal.

Collectors of high-value baseball cards and sports trading cards will recognize this as one of the most important Babe Ruth trading cards ever produced.

6. 1933 Sport Kings Signed #2 Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 6
Sale Price: $471,042
Sale Year: 2024
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions
Grade: PSA 9

The 1933 Sport Kings Babe Ruth card is one of the most historic multi-sport trading cards ever made. This card was part of a set featuring legends from multiple sports, but Babe Ruth was the undisputed headliner.

What makes this specific card truly special is that it is one of the only known signed examples. Babe Ruth's signature is graded PSA 9, making it one of the finest autographed Babe Ruth cards in existence.

With only a handful of known signed Sport Kings Babe Ruth cards, this is a museum-worthy piece of sports history. Serious collectors of Babe Ruth memorabilia and rare baseball cards consider this one of the crown jewels of the hobby.

5. 1917 Collins-McCarthy (E135) Babe Ruth #147

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 5
Sale Price: $660,000
Sale Year: 2021
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: SGC 8

The 1917 Collins-McCarthy Babe Ruth card is one of the rarest and most desirable pre-war baseball cards in existence. This card was issued just one year after his official rookie card, making it one of his earliest known trading cards.

Graded SGC 8, this is one of only ten examples known to exist, and no PSA-graded copies have ever reached this high. The Collins-McCarthy series was a regional release, making Ruth’s card incredibly rare compared to other early Babe Ruth baseball cards.

For collectors of high-value sports cards, this is a true investment piece, representing one of the earliest baseball cards of the game’s greatest legend.

4. 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 4
Sale Price: $1,065,000
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: PSA 8.5

The 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144 is one of the most recognizable Babe Ruth baseball cards ever printed. The 1933 Goudey set was the first major bubble gum card set, marking a revolution in sports collectibles. Of the four Ruth cards in the series, #144—often called the "Full Body" Ruth—remains a fan favorite.

This PSA 8.5-graded example is one of the finest known, with only four cards graded higher. The bold colors and sharp details bring The Bambino to life, capturing him at the height of his Yankees career.

If you're looking for a Babe Ruth baseball card worth investing in, this is a hall-of-fame-level choice, blending history, rarity, and timeless design.

3. 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #149

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 3
Sale Price: $1,620,000
Sale Year: 2024
Sale Location: Fanatics Collect
Grade: PSA 8.5

The 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #149 is a true grail of trading cards, featuring a stunning deep red background that makes it one of the most visually striking Babe Ruth baseball cards ever produced. This is one of four Babe Ruth cards in the 1933 Goudey set, each paying tribute to The Babe’s legendary career.

This PSA 8.5 example is an ultra-premium specimen, ranking among the best-graded copies ever sold. The sharp colors, near-perfect centering, and pristine condition add to its legendary appeal. It is one of the hardest-to-find high-grade Babe Ruth baseball cards, which is why it commands such a massive price tag.

The 1933 Goudey set was a game-changer in the trading card world. At a time when the country was recovering from the Great Depression, Goudey introduced colorful, high-quality cards that came with sticks of gum, making them a must-have for young baseball fans. Among the four Ruth cards in the set, #149 stands out due to its bold red background and low population count in high grades.

For collectors hunting for a Babe Ruth card investment, this is one of the best Babe Ruth trading cards you could ever hope to own. Owning this card means holding a piece of trading card history, as it represents Ruth in his prime, just before his retirement in 1935.

2. 1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie #151

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 2
Sale Price: $1,770,000
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions
Grade: SGC 7

This is it—the official Babe Ruth rookie card! The 1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie #151 is one of the most iconic baseball cards ever made, capturing Ruth as a young Boston Red Sox pitcher, long before he became the Yankees' legendary slugger.

Graded SGC 7, this particular card is one of the finest-known copies. Given its over 100-year-old history, finding an early Babe Ruth card in this condition is nearly impossible. This card is often compared to the T206 Honus Wagner, as both are cornerstones of vintage baseball card collecting.

The M101-4 Sporting News set was issued by multiple publishers, making variations of this card available, but they all feature the same legendary image—Babe Ruth in his Boston Red Sox uniform, just before he transitioned into the power-hitting role that would redefine baseball.

During this time, Ruth was still primarily known as a pitcher, having helped the Red Sox win the 1915 World Series. By 1916, he led the league with a 1.75 ERA, proving his dominance on the mound before becoming the slugger who would change baseball forever. This card captures that pivotal moment in Ruth’s career, making it one of the most historically significant Babe Ruth trading cards ever produced.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Babe Ruth rookie card, this is the crown jewel of sports memorabilia. It embodies the start of Ruth’s legendary baseball journey, from Red Sox ace to Yankees slugging icon.

1.1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth

Rank - Best Babe Ruth Baseball Card: 1
Sale Price: $7,200,000
Sale Year: 2023
Sale Location: Robert Edward Auction
Grade: SGC 3

Here it is—the most expensive Babe Ruth baseball card ever sold and one of the rarest trading cards in existence. The 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth is Ruth’s true rookie card, printed when he was just 19 years old, pitching for the Baltimore Orioles (then a minor league team).

This card isn’t just a collectible—it’s baseball history in its purest form. At the time, Babe Ruth was an unknown prospect, playing in the minor leagues before being sold to the Red Sox later that same year. This Baltimore News issue was part of a local newspaper promotion, and only ten copies are known to exist today.

What makes this card even more special is its extreme rarity and fragile nature. These were printed on thin stock paper, making them highly susceptible to wear and tear. The fact that this SGC 3 copy has survived in such good condition for over a century is nothing short of remarkable.

This card shatters records, not just because of its price, but because it represents the earliest known baseball card of The Babe. Unlike his later cards, which depict him as the power-hitting Yankees legend, this one shows him in his humble beginnings, before the world knew his name.

For serious collectors and investors, this Babe Ruth trading card is the Holy Grail—a true piece of baseball history that cements Ruth’s status as the greatest to ever play the game. It’s a card that symbolizes where it all started for baseball’s biggest icon and why The Babe remains larger than life to this day.

If you ever come across a Babe Ruth baseball card for sale, nothing will compare to this one—it’s the ultimate prize in the world of sports collectibles.

FAQS

1. How much is a Babe Ruth baseball card worth?

The value of a Babe Ruth baseball card varies significantly based on factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance. For instance, some of his more common cards can sell for a few hundred dollars, while rare high-grade examples fetch millions. One of the most valuable Babe Ruth baseball cards, the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth, recently sold for $7,200,000, setting a record for Ruth cards. If you're wondering about Babe Ruth card worth, it's essential to check a baseball card price guide and monitor baseball card values to see current market trends.

2. What is the most expensive baseball card ever sold?

As of August 2022, the most expensive baseball card ever sold is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle, which fetched $12.6 million at auction, surpassing previous records for sports collectibles.

3. How many Babe Ruth baseball cards are there?

Babe Ruth appears on numerous baseball cards issued during and after his career. Some of the most notable and valuable Babe Ruth baseball cards include:

1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth Rookie Card – Considered his true rookie card, with only about ten known copies.
1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth Rookie Card – His first major league card, featuring Ruth as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth Set – A four-card set (#53, #144, #149, #181) depicting Ruth in various poses during his time with the New York Yankees.
Babe Ruth Topps Card – While Topps didn't produce cards during Ruth's playing days, there have been Topps Babe Ruth cards released in later years as tributes.

These Babe Ruth trading cards remain among the most collectible baseball cards in history.

4. How much did the Babe Ruth rookie card sell for?

The 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth rookie card is one of the rarest and most valuable baseball cards. In 2023, an SGC 3-graded example of this Babe Ruth rookie card sold for an astounding $7,200,000 at Robert Edward Auctions, making it one of the highest-priced trading cards ever sold.

5. What is the most collectible Babe Ruth card?

The 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth card is widely regarded as the most collectible Babe Ruth baseball card due to its extreme rarity and historical importance. Other highly sought-after cards include the 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144, the 1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth rookie card, and signed Babe Ruth baseball card value continues to rise, especially for high-grade, authenticated autographs.

6. What is Babe Ruth's first card?

Babe Ruth’s first baseball card is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth, which features him as a minor league pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles before he joined the Boston Red Sox. It is the earliest known Babe Ruth card, making it a true Holy Grail in sports collectibles. Finding an original Babe Ruth baseball card in top condition is incredibly rare, making it one of the most sought-after items in the baseball card market.

For serious collectors and investors, Babe Ruth baseball memorabilia continues to be a top-tier choice in the world of sports trading cards. If you’re looking for a Babe Ruth baseball card for sale, be prepared to pay a premium, as his legacy and card values only continue to rise. You can also explore baseball card packs, baseball card boxes, and check out baseball card release dates to discover modern releases featuring tribute Babe Ruth cards.

7. How can I display my Babe Ruth baseball cards?

If you own a high-end Babe Ruth baseball card, a proper display is key. The Vaulted Card Display for SGC is an excellent choice, featuring:

High-density EVA foam with Friction Fit™ for secure slab protection.
Sleek carbon fiber finish for an eye-catching display.
Ultra-lightweight and mountable design for easy wall installation.
Ready to use out of the box—no assembly required.
Available for PSA/CGC, MAG, BGS, and SGC slabs.

Did you know? The SGC version can even fit the $7.2M Baltimore News Babe Ruth card!

For ungraded Babe Ruth cards, the Vaulted Magnetic Card Holder is a top-tier option with:

Magnetic lock for easy access and security.
Ultra-clear, UV-protected materials to prevent fading.
Recessed display window to protect against scratches.

Top 30 Babe Ruth Baseball Cards – The Bambino’s Greatest Collectibles