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About This Card
Explore the 1990-91 Upper Deck Christian Ruuttu #170 hockey card, featuring the Buffalo Sabres defenseman during Upper Deck's historic first NHL season.
Christian Ruuttu
1990-91 • Upper Deck
National Hockey League • Buffalo Sabres
Seller Offer
1 available$3.19
Raw/Ungraded Market: $0.25
Stale · as of 10/19/2026Condition
Near Mint
Card Number
170
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Primary Seller
New
Shipping Calculated at Checkout
Arrives in 5-7 daysEstimated delivery November 19, 2026 - November 21, 2026
30-day ReturnsMarket & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
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$0.25As of 10/19/2026 | Guide Estimate | 0% | ||
- $0.25As of 10/19/2026
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- Guide Estimate
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30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
PriceCharting Price Guide · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 20, 2026
Product Overview
Description
The 1990-91 Upper Deck Christian Ruuttu #170 hockey card marks a significant moment in sports collectibles history as part of Upper Deck's inaugural NHL trading card release. This era is widely recognized for introducing high-quality photography and premium production values to the market, setting a new standard for hockey cards that collectors still value today. Christian Ruuttu, a defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres, appears on card number 170, offering enthusiasts a tangible connection to the team's roster during a pivotal transition period in the early 1990s. Collecting cards from the 1990-91 Upper Deck set often appeals to those interested in the evolution of hockey card design. The brand's debut year is particularly notable for its glossy finish and vibrant color reproduction, which differed sharply from the matte textures prevalent in previous years. For collectors focusing on the Buffalo Sabres, Ruuttu’s inclusion provides a complete record of the team’s lineup during a time when the franchise was navigating changes in its defensive corps. The card serves as a historical document of Ruuttu’s tenure, capturing his presence in the NHL before his career concluded. The 1990-91 Upper Deck series remains a staple for hobbyists who appreciate the craftsmanship of early 90s production. Whether you are looking to complete a Buffalo Sabres collection or focus on the broader history of NHL trading cards, this card represents a foundational piece of that legacy. Its status within the set is defined by its place in one of the most influential releases in modern hockey card history. For investors and long-term holders, cards from this year and brand combination are often viewed as blue-chip items due to their enduring popularity and the brand's reputation for quality. The intersection of Ruuttu’s career and Upper Deck’s market entry makes this card a unique artifact for dedicated hobbyists. Exploring the nuances of early 90s hockey cards reveals why this release continues to command attention in the secondary market.
Last Listing Activity
11/1/26
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Product Specs
Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Print Details
Production details and format-specific attributes.
Material
Card Stock
Language
English
Available Offers
Available Offer for This Card (1)
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Featured Offer
New
Condition
Near Mint
Seller PriceShipping Extra
$3.19
Arrives in 5-7 days
Estimated delivery November 19, 2026 - November 21, 2026Collector Ownership
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0 collectors have this card
SuperCatch Expert Analysis
Market Value Insight
This 1990-91 Upper Deck card of Christian Ruuttu represents a budget-tier entry point within the Buffalo Sabres' historical roster, reflecting his role as a depth player rather than a franchise cornerstone. The current pricing indicates it trades significantly below the premium commanded by top-line stars or high-profile rookies from the same era, positioning it as an accessible asset for casual collectors. Its value is primarily driven by the nostalgia of the early 90s Upper Deck release rather than individual player acclaim.
Rarity Breakdown
The card lacks any noted special attributes such as serial numbering, short-print designations, or parallel variations, meaning it is a standard base card from the original print run. This absence of scarcity mechanics implies that supply is relatively abundant compared to autographed or limited-edition counterparts in the same set. Consequently, the item does not possess unique scarcity drivers that typically elevate a card's value beyond its base status.
Investment Outlook
As a non-rookie card of a player who did not achieve long-term stardom, this item offers limited appreciation potential compared to rookie cards of Hall of Fame-caliber peers from the same season. The demand is likely sustained by specialized Buffalo Sabres collectors seeking to complete base sets from the early 90s rather than by speculative investment interest. Future value stability will depend on the broader nostalgia market for Upper Deck hockey rather than individual player performance metrics.
AI-Generated Editorial Analysis
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 1990-91 Upper Deck set significant in hockey collecting?
The 1990-91 Upper Deck set is historically significant because it was the first NHL trading card set produced by the Upper Deck company, introducing higher-quality photography and glossy finishes that changed industry standards. It is often considered a key release for collectors who appreciate the shift toward premium production values in the early 1990s.
Who is Christian Ruuttu and what team did he play for in 1990-91?
Christian Ruuttu was a defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres during the 1990-91 NHL season. His appearance on card #170 in the Upper Deck set documents his role on the Sabres' blue line during a period where the team was actively developing its roster.
Why do collectors focus on 1990-91 Upper Deck hockey cards today?
Collectors focus on the 1990-91 Upper Deck hockey cards because they represent a pivotal year in the hobby, marking the entry of a major manufacturer known for quality.
