[pnut22]

She points out that 1980’s doesn’t need the comma. I was taught to write the nineteen eighties. Rule may have changed.. I am no youngster.

[aspasia]

1980’s doesn’t need the comma

That's how I failed my National Spelling Bee contest in fifth grade, trying to spell couldn't with a comma.

[blu]

She points out that 1980’s doesn’t need the comma.

She is correct. The apostrophe indicates possession. The "1980s" are not possessing anything in this sentence.

If she were talking about the 1980's fashions or the 1980's undercurrent vs the 90's discontent, that would be correct.