1978 Topps #36 Eddie Murray ROOKIE PSA NM-MT+ 8.5

1978 Topps #36 Eddie Murray PSA 8.5 – A Rookie of an Orioles Legend

The 1978 Topps #36 Eddie Murray rookie card is one of the cornerstone issues of late 1970s collecting. Murray wasted no time making an impact, winning American League Rookie of the Year honors in 1977 and quickly establishing himself as one of the game’s most consistent and feared switch-hitters. Over a career that spanned 21 seasons, Murray compiled 3,255 hits, 504 home runs, and 1,917 RBIs, making him one of only a handful of players to surpass both 3,000 hits and 500 home runs. His quiet consistency and clutch hitting defined his Hall of Fame career with the Baltimore Orioles and beyond.

The 1978 Topps set is well-known for its clean white borders and straightforward design, but also for condition challenges like print defects and centering issues. This PSA 8.5 example rises above the average copy, offering sharp corners, excellent surface quality, and bright coloration that makes the card pop. Sitting between a straight Near Mint-Mint 8 and a Mint 9, the half-grade bump adds meaningful distinction for collectors who value eye appeal without stepping into the premium Mint tier.

As the definitive rookie card of one of baseball’s most reliable and productive sluggers, Murray’s 1978 Topps remains a must-own for Hall of Fame collections.