Step into the electrifying world of football card collecting, where history, sport, and investment collide. From the gridiron legends of yesteryear to today’s superstar quarterbacks, football cards are more than just collectibles – they’re tangible pieces of sports history and, for many, valuable assets. Join us on an exciting journey as we explore the most sought-after and Football Cards Worth Money, revealing the stories behind these prized pieces of cardboard and the factors that drive their value sky-high. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, prepare to be amazed by the incredible world of high-value football cards.
Top Football Cards Worth Money: Collectibles & Fun Facts
- The undisputed king of football cards worth money is the 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Patrick Mahomes Autographed Rookie Card #161, which fetched a record-breaking $4.3 million in 2021.
- For sheer rarity, the 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 takes the crown, with a mere 36 copies believed to exist, making it exceptionally valuable.
- The fascinating history of football cards worth money begins in the 1880s, when they were first included in cigarette packs as a promotional tactic. These early cards featured player illustrations and were designed to boost cigarette sales.
- Topps, a giant in the sports card industry, entered the football card arena in 1956 and has remained a dominant force ever since, producing iconic sets that collectors covet.
- The value of football cards worth money is determined by a complex interplay of factors: player popularity, card condition, scarcity, professional grading, market demand, the sport itself, the brand, historical significance, and current market trends. Rookie cards and cards featuring star players, especially in pristine condition, command premium prices. Limited edition and autographed cards are also highly sought after.
- Professional grading by reputable companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or Beckett Grading Services (BGS) can significantly enhance the perceived value and market price of a football card.
- Market demand and current trends play a crucial role in the fluctuating values of football cards worth money. Cards associated with iconic sports moments or featuring currently trending players can experience surges in value.
The Definitive Top 10 Most Valuable Football Cards Ever Sold
- 2017 National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #161 – $4,300,000: The ultimate grail for collectors, this card represents the pinnacle of football cards worth money.
- 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Tom Brady Autograph #144 – $3,107,372: A legendary rookie card of the GOAT, cementing its place among the most valuable sports cards ever.
- 2020 National Treasures Platinum NFL Shield Justin Herbert Autograph #158 – $1,800,000: A modern marvel, showcasing the rising star power of Justin Herbert in a highly sought-after shield autograph format.
- 2017 Panini National Treasure Patrick Mahomes II PAT. Autograph – Stars and Stripes – $720,000: Another Mahomes masterpiece, highlighting the early collecting frenzy around this generational talent.
- 2017 Panini Prizm Gold Vinyl Patrick Mahomes II Gold Vinyl #269 – $570,000: Limited edition rarity meets star power, driving the value of this Mahomes Prizm card to incredible heights.
- 1958 Topps Jim Brown #62 – $358,500: A vintage classic featuring one of football’s all-time greats, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Hall of Fame legends.
- 2020 National Treasures Joe Burrow Patch Autographs- RED 1 – $336,000: Burrow’s star power is reflected in this high-value rookie patch autograph, showcasing his impact on the modern NFL.
- 2017 Panini Contenders Super Bowl Ticket Patrick Mahomes II Auto – $324,000: Connecting Mahomes to the Super Bowl stage early in his career adds significant value to this autograph.
- 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady #118 – $312,000: Another key Brady rookie card, emphasizing the depth of the market for his early collectibles.
- 2017 Panini Flawless Shield Signatures Patrick Mahomes II #4 – $312,000: Shield autographs continue to be a premium segment within football cards worth money, as evidenced by this Mahomes card.
The Top 30 Most Valuable Football Cards Ever Created
30. 1888 Goodwin Champions N162 Beecher
1888 Goodwin Champions N162 Beecher
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 30
- Sale price: $30,000
- Sale year: 2017
- Sale location: Robert Edward Auctions
- Grade: SGC 7
This 1888 Goodwin Champions N162 Beecher card marks the genesis of football cards worth money. As one of the earliest football cards ever produced, it represents a significant piece of sports and hobby history. The card showcases Harry Beecher in a seated pose, ball in hand, with his red hat and fiery red hair vividly contrasting against the orange backdrop. Its rarity is amplified by its condition; this SGC 7 grade is unique among the 48 examples scrutinized by SGC, with the next highest grade being an EX+ 70. Collectors who prize the early days of football and tangible links to the sport’s pioneers would find this card an exceptional treasure.
29. 1971 Topps Terry Bradshaw #156
1971 Topps Terry Bradshaw #156
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 29
- Sale price: $43,200
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: PWCC Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1971 Topps Terry Bradshaw #156 rookie card captures the early career of a Steelers legend, making it a desirable entry in the list of football cards worth money. Set against a blue backdrop, the card features a portrait of Bradshaw, highlighting his early prominence. Bradshaw’s rookie season was the start of a Hall of Fame career that included four Super Bowl victories. This particular card, graded PSA 9, is a near-perfect example and one of only 29 at this grade or higher, adding to its exclusivity and value for discerning collectors.
28. 1984 Topps John Elway #63
1984 Topps John Elway #63
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 28
- Sale price: $50,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: PWCC Auctions
- Grade: BGS 10
This 1984 Topps John Elway #63 rookie card marks the beginning of a Broncos icon’s journey, firmly placing it among football cards worth money. The card showcases Elway in his Broncos jersey with the number 7, capturing his poised demeanor early in his career. Drafted by Denver, Elway’s rookie season was the foundation for a Hall of Fame career. This BGS 10 graded example represents the highest possible condition, making it a rare and valuable tribute to Elway’s legendary status.
27. 1966 Philadelphia Gale Sayers #38
1966 Philadelphia Gale Sayers #38
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 27
- Sale price: $58,800
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1966 Philadelphia Gale Sayers #38 card immortalizes “The Kansas Comet,” solidifying its place as one of the significant football cards worth money. The card captures Sayers in dynamic motion, showcasing his signature grace and athleticism. Sayers, known for his speed and elusiveness, earned NFL Rookie of the Year in 1965 and was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This PSA 9 graded card is a testament to his short but brilliant career and a prized collectible for fans of the game’s most electrifying players.
26. 1986 Topps Jerry Rice #161
1986 Topps Jerry Rice #161
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 26
- Sale price: $63,000
- Sale year: 2023
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 10
The 1986 Topps Jerry Rice #161 rookie card is a visual cornerstone for collectors seeking football cards worth money, representing the start of a legendary career. The card depicts Rice in his iconic #80 jersey, gazing over his shoulder, capturing his focus and game awareness. Jerry Rice, widely considered the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, holds numerous league records. This PSA 10 Gem Mint graded card is a top-tier example and a must-have for any serious football card collection, marking the genesis of an unparalleled career.
25. 1962 Topps Mike Ditka #17
1962 Topps Mike Ditka #17
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 25
- Sale price: $72,000
- Sale year: 2017
- Sale location: Robert Edward Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
This 1962 Topps Mike Ditka #17 rookie card stands out as an exceptional high-grade example, making it a valuable addition to any collection of football cards worth money. It represents Ditka’s entry into the NFL and is remarkably well-preserved within the notoriously condition-sensitive 1962 Topps set. This PSA 9 graded card is one of only four at this level, with none graded higher, out of over 670 submissions to PSA. Its rarity and pristine condition, defying the typical wear of the 1962 set, make it a coveted piece for collectors of Hall of Fame rookies and vintage football cards.
24. 1948 Leaf Sammy Baugh Red Jersey #34
1948 Leaf Sammy Baugh Red Jersey #34
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 24
- Sale price: $75,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 8.5
The 1948 Leaf Sammy Baugh Red Jersey #34 is a highly sought-after rookie card and a cornerstone among football cards worth money, celebrating a true pioneer of the game. This card features Sammy Baugh, a Hall of Famer who revolutionized passing in football. His innovative approach to the forward pass transformed offensive strategy. This PSA 8.5 example is a rare find from the early post-war era of card production, making it historically significant and valuable for collectors interested in the roots of modern football.
23. 1981 Topps Joe Montana #216
1981 Topps Joe Montana #216
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 23
- Sale price: $87,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Robert Edward Auctions
- Grade: PSA 10
The 1981 Topps Joe Montana #216 rookie card is a cornerstone of any collection focused on football cards worth money, representing the debut of a quarterbacking legend. Recognized in PSA’s “Top 250 Sportscards in the Hobby,” this card’s historical significance is undeniable. Joe Montana led the San Francisco 49ers to multiple Super Bowl victories, becoming one of the most iconic players in NFL history. This PSA 10 Gem Mint graded card is a top-tier example of his highly coveted rookie and a valuable investment in sports memorabilia.
22. 1959 Topps Jim Brown #10
1959 Topps Jim Brown #10
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 22
- Sale price: $91,200
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: PSA 10
The 1959 Topps Jim Brown #10 card is a prized piece among football cards worth money, showcasing the second-year card of a legendary fullback in exceptional condition. Jim Brown, often cited as the greatest football player of all time, dominated the NFL in the late 1950s and 1960s. Despite over 2,350 examples graded by PSA, only three have achieved a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade. This offered card is one of those rare specimens, exhibiting virtually perfect centering and vibrant colors, defying typical condition issues found in the 1959 Topps set.
21. 2019 National Treasures Crossover Rookie Patch Autos NFL Shield Kyler Murray #1
2019 National Treasures Crossover Rookie Patch Autos NFL Shield Kyler Murray #1
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 21
- Sale price: $96,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 8
The 2019 National Treasures Crossover Rookie Patch Auto of Kyler Murray is a modern example of football cards worth money, highlighting the appeal of contemporary stars. This card features Murray’s autograph in blue ink and an NFL Shield patch, signifying premium rarity and collectibility. As the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Murray quickly established himself as a dynamic quarterback. This BGS 8 graded card captures his rookie year excitement and potential, making it a valuable piece for collectors focused on current NFL stars.
20. 2020 Donruss Optic Downtown Gold Vinyl Joe Burrow #40
2020 Donruss Optic Downtown Gold Vinyl Joe Burrow #40
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 20
- Sale price: $108,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 7.5
The 2020 Donruss Optic Downtown Gold Vinyl #40 Joe Burrow is a unique, one-of-a-kind card that exemplifies the ultra-rare segment of football cards worth money. This rookie card features a distinctive “Downtown” design with Burrow in his Bengals uniform, surrounded by tiger imagery. Limited to just 1 copy, this card represents peak scarcity and celebrates Burrow’s arrival as a franchise quarterback. Its artistic design and limited edition status make it a highly desirable and valuable modern collectible.
19. 1933 Sport Kings Jim Thorpe Football #6
1933 Sport Kings Jim Thorpe Football #6
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 19
- Sale price: $138,000
- Sale year: 2020
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1933 Sport Kings Jim Thorpe Football #6 card is a historical gem among football cards worth money, honoring one of the greatest all-around athletes of the 20th century. Jim Thorpe was a football pioneer and the first president of the NFL. This card, part of the iconic Sport Kings set, is a tribute to his legendary status and impact on the sport. This PSA 9 graded example is a rare and well-preserved piece of sports history, appealing to collectors who value both athletic achievement and vintage card aesthetics.
18. 1957 Topps John Unitas #138
1957 Topps John Unitas #138
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 18
- Sale price: $167,300
- Sale year: 2016
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1957 Topps John Unitas #138 rookie card is an iconic entry in the realm of football cards worth money, celebrating a quarterback who redefined the position. John Unitas led the Baltimore Colts to victory in the “Greatest Game Ever Played” in 1958 and continued to dominate the league. This PSA 9 graded card captures the beginning of his Hall of Fame career and represents a key vintage rookie card for serious football card collectors and investors.
17. 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34
1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 17
- Sale price: $174,000
- Sale year: 2019
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 8.5
The 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 card is renowned for its extreme rarity, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after football cards worth money. With only 36 copies estimated to exist, this card is a true grail for vintage collectors. Bronko Nagurski was a dominant two-way player for the Chicago Bears in the 1930s and a Hall of Fame inductee. This PSA 8.5 graded example is an exceptional survivor from a very limited and historically significant set, representing the pinnacle of vintage football card collecting.
16. 2021 Panini Absolute Tom Brady KABOOM – GREEN 1/1 #K24
2021 Panini Absolute Tom Brady KABOOM – GREEN 1/1 #K24
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 16
- Sale price: $188,400
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: PSA 8
The 2021 Panini Absolute Tom Brady KABOOM – GREEN 1/1 #K24 card is a modern ultra-rare collectible that commands high value among football cards worth money. Featuring Tom Brady, arguably the greatest quarterback of all time, in a vibrant “KABOOM!” design, this card is limited to a single copy. The green parallel and “1/1” designation amplify its scarcity and desirability. This PSA 8 graded example offers collectors a chance to own a unique piece of Brady memorabilia from his legendary career.
15. 1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie #148
1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie #148
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 15
- Sale price: $228,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: SGC Pristine
The 1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie #148 card is a highly coveted rookie card and a significant entry in the list of football cards worth money, celebrating “Sweetness.” Walter Payton, the legendary Chicago Bears running back, is considered one of the greatest players in NFL history. This SGC Pristine 10 graded example represents the highest possible condition for this iconic rookie, making it exceptionally rare and valuable for collectors of Hall of Fame players and top-tier condition cards.
14. 2021 National Treasures Platinum Trevor Lawrence Autograph #156
2021 National Treasures Platinum Trevor Lawrence Autograph #156
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 14
- Sale price: $264,000
- Sale year: 2023
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 8
The 2021 National Treasures Platinum Trevor Lawrence Autograph #156 card highlights the modern market for football cards worth money, featuring a top contemporary quarterback. Trevor Lawrence, the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, represents the future of the quarterback position. This card features his autograph and an NFL Shield patch. This BGS 8 graded example captures the early excitement surrounding Lawrence’s career and serves as a valuable piece for collectors focused on rising stars and modern high-end cards.
13. 1965 Topps Joe Namath #122
1965 Topps Joe Namath #122
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 13
- Sale price: $264,000
- Sale year: 2018
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1965 Topps Joe Namath #122 rookie card is an iconic and valuable entry among football cards worth money, representing “Broadway Joe” Namath’s debut. Namath, known for his charisma and Super Bowl III guarantee, is a legendary figure in football history. This PSA 9 graded card is remarkable for its condition, given the oversized nature of the 1965 Topps set, which makes high-grade examples exceptionally rare. This card is a prized possession for collectors of vintage Hall of Fame rookies and culturally significant sports memorabilia.
12. 2000 Bowman Gold Tom Brady (#12/99) #236
2000 Bowman Gold Tom Brady (#12/99) #236
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 12
- Sale price: $288,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: BGS 9
The 2000 Bowman Gold Tom Brady (#12/99) #236 rookie card is a limited edition gem and a highly valuable example of football cards worth money, featuring the iconic quarterback. Numbered to only 99 copies, this gold variant is exceptionally scarce. This particular card is numbered “12,” matching Brady’s jersey number, adding further significance. This BGS 9 graded example is a crucial piece for Brady collectors and represents a highly sought-after rookie from the beginning of his legendary career.
11. 1957 Topps Bart Starr #119
1957 Topps Bart Starr #119
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 11
- Sale price: $288,000
- Sale year: 2017
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1957 Topps Bart Starr #119 rookie card is a historically significant and valuable card among football cards worth money, honoring a Green Bay Packers legend. Bart Starr led the Packers to five NFL championships and victories in the first two Super Bowls. This PSA 9 graded card is a tribute to his Hall of Fame career and represents a key vintage rookie card from a pivotal era in football history, making it highly desirable for collectors of vintage sports memorabilia.
10. 2017 Panini Flawless Shield Signatures Patrick Mahomes II #4
2017 Panini Flawless Shield Signatures Patrick Mahomes II #4
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 9
- Sale price: $312,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 7.5
The 2017 Panini Flawless Shield Signatures Patrick Mahomes II #4 card is a premium example of football cards worth money, showcasing a shield patch autograph of the modern superstar. This card features Mahomes’ autograph in blue ink and an NFL shield patch, signifying top-tier collectibility. As the 2018 NFL MVP and a Super Bowl champion, Mahomes quickly became a hobby icon. This BGS 7.5 graded card represents the high-value segment of shield autographs and the strong demand for Mahomes rookie memorabilia.
9. 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady #118
2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady #118
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 10
- Sale price: $312,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 10
The 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady #118 rookie card is a cornerstone Brady rookie and a highly valuable piece among football cards worth money. This card captures the early days of Brady’s career before he became a global icon. This BGS 10 Pristine graded example represents the highest possible condition, making it exceptionally rare and desirable for collectors seeking top-tier Brady rookies and investment-grade sports cards.
8. 2017 Panini Contenders Super Bowl Ticket Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #303
2017 Panini Contenders Super Bowl Ticket Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #303
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 8
- Sale price: $324,000
- Sale year: 2023
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: BGS 9
The 2017 Panini Contenders Super Bowl Ticket Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #303 card links Mahomes to the Super Bowl early in his career, adding to its value among football cards worth money. This card connects Mahomes’ rookie season to the sport’s biggest stage. This BGS 9 graded example is a well-preserved and highly desirable Mahomes rookie autograph, appealing to collectors who appreciate cards with thematic connections to significant career moments.
7. 2020 National Treasures Joe Burrow Patch Autographs- RED 1 (#1/1) #156
2020 National Treasures Joe Burrow Patch Autographs- RED 1 (#1/1) #156
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 7
- Sale price: $336,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: PSA 8
The 2020 National Treasures Joe Burrow Patch Autographs- RED 1 (#1/1) #156 card is a unique, one-of-a-kind rookie card and a top example of football cards worth money in the modern era. This card features Burrow’s autograph and a vibrant memorabilia patch, limited to just a single copy. This PSA 8 graded example represents peak scarcity and celebrates Burrow’s emergence as a top NFL quarterback, making it a highly coveted and valuable modern collectible.
6. 1958 Topps Jim Brown #62
1958 Topps Jim Brown #62
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 6
- Sale price: $358,500
- Sale year: 2016
- Sale location: Heritage Auctions
- Grade: PSA 9
The 1958 Topps Jim Brown #62 card is a highly valuable second-year card and a key piece among football cards worth money, featuring the legendary running back. Jim Brown’s dominance in the NFL is legendary, and this card captures him early in his career. This PSA 9 graded example is a well-preserved vintage card of a Hall of Famer, making it a prized possession for collectors who appreciate the history of the game and its greatest players.
5. 2017 Panini Prizm Gold Vinyl Patrick Mahomes II #269
1958 Topps Jim Brown #62
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 5
- Sale price: $570,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: PSA 10
The 2017 Panini Prizm Gold Vinyl Patrick Mahomes II #269 card is an ultra-rare parallel and a top-tier example of football cards worth money, highlighting Mahomes’ rookie year in the popular Prizm set. Limited to only 5 copies, the Gold Vinyl parallel is exceptionally scarce. This PSA 10 Gem Mint graded example represents the highest possible condition and peak rarity, making it a highly sought-after and valuable Mahomes rookie card for discerning collectors.
4. 2017 Panini National Treasure Patrick Mahomes II Patch Autograph – Stars and Stripes #161
2017 Panini National Treasure Patrick Mahomes II Patch Autograph – Stars and Stripes #161
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 4
- Sale price: $720,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: PSA 10
The 2017 Panini National Treasures “Stars & Stripes Patch Autographs” Patrick Mahomes II RPA is a premium rookie patch autograph and a top-tier example of football cards worth money. Limited to only 13 copies, the “Stars & Stripes” variant adds a patriotic flair to this already desirable rookie patch autograph. This PSA 10 Gem Mint graded example represents the highest possible condition and limited edition rarity, making it an exceptionally valuable Mahomes rookie card for serious collectors and investors.
3. 2020 National Treasures Platinum NFL Shield Justin Herbert Autograph (#1/1) #158
2020 National Treasures Platinum NFL Shield Justin Herbert Autograph (#1/1) #158
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 3
- Sale price: $1,800,000
- Sale year: 2022
- Sale location: Goldin Auctions
- Grade: BGS 8.5
The 2020 National Treasures Platinum NFL Shield Justin Herbert Autograph (#1/1) #158 card is an ultra-rare, one-of-a-kind rookie card and a prime example of modern football cards worth money reaching record prices. Featuring Justin Herbert’s autograph and an NFL shield patch, this card is limited to a single copy. This BGS 8.5 graded example represents peak scarcity and the high demand for top rookie cards of emerging NFL superstars, making it an exceptionally valuable modern collectible.
2. 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Tom Brady Autograph #144
2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Tom Brady Autograph #144
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 2
- Sale price: $3,107,372
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: Lelands Auctions
- Grade: BGS 9
The 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Tom Brady Autograph #144 card is a legendary rookie card and one of the most valuable football cards worth money, featuring the autograph of the greatest of all time. Limited to just 100 copies and featuring a “Championship Ticket” design, this card is exceptionally scarce in high grade. This BGS 9 Mint graded example is one of only seven at this grade, making it a true grail for Brady collectors and a blue-chip investment in the sports card hobby.
1. 2017 National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #161
2017 National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #161
- Rank – Most Expensive Football Card: 1
- Sale price: $4,300,000
- Sale year: 2021
- Sale location: PWCC Auctions
- Grade: BGS 8.5
The 2017 National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #161 card holds the title of the most expensive football card worth money ever sold, and the most expensive rookie card across all sports. This card features Mahomes’ autograph and an NFL shield patch, representing the ultimate combination of player, rarity, and desirability. This BGS 8.5 graded example set a record price of $4.3 million in 2021, solidifying its place as the pinnacle of football card collecting and a symbol of the hobby’s investment potential.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Cards, They’re Investments
Our journey through the realm of football cards worth money reveals more than just collectibles; we’ve explored tangible pieces of sports history, cultural artifacts, and valuable investment assets. From the vintage charm of the 1888 N162 Goodwin Champions Beecher to the modern marvel of the 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Patrick Mahomes, each card tells a unique story of athletic achievement and collectible desire. These aren’t just ink on cardboard; they are gateways to the passion, legacy, and enduring magic of football. Are football cards worth money? The answer is a resounding yes. They represent a dynamic market where history, rarity, and fan enthusiasm converge to create significant value. The story of football cards worth money is ongoing, with new heroes emerging and vintage legends continuing to captivate collectors for generations to come.
FAQs
What is the most valuable football card in the world?
The title of the most valuable football card worth money belongs to the 2017 Panini National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes NFL Shield Rookie Autograph. This card set a record in a private sale in July 2021, fetching an astounding $4.3 million. This sale cemented its status as the most expensive football card ever and highlighted Patrick Mahomes’ immense popularity and the high-value potential within the football card market. For collectors seeking the pinnacle of football cards worth money, this Mahomes rookie stands as the ultimate example. To protect your own valuable collection, consider using a trade card case to ensure their long-term preservation.
Which Joe Montana football cards are worth money?
Joe Montana cards are consistently sought after by collectors, making many of them valuable football cards worth money. Here are some examples of Joe Montana cards and their approximate value ranges:
-
1981 Topps Joe Montana Rookie Card #216:
- Price Range: $50 to $74,000 (depending on grade)
- Highest Sale Price: $87,000 (PSA 10 Gem Mint)
-
1986 Topps Joe Montana #156:
- Price Range: $1 to $3,650 (depending on grade)
- Highest Sale Price: $6,000 (PSA 10 Gem Mint)
-
1985 Topps Joe Montana #157:
- Price Range: $10 to $1,350 (depending on grade)
- Highest Sale Price: $3,500 (PSA 10 Gem Mint)
These examples illustrate the wide range of values within football cards worth money, with rookie cards and high-grade examples commanding significant premiums.
What was the very first football card ever produced?
The first recognized American football card is the 1888 N162 Goodwin Champions Beecher. This card, featuring Yale player Henry W. Beecher, was part of a 50-card set included in “Old Judge” and “Gypsy Queen” cigarette packs. This historic card marks the very beginning of football cards worth money and the hobby itself. Following this pioneering card, the Mayo Cut Plug Tobacco Company released the first set dedicated entirely to American football players in 1894, featuring 35 cards of Ivy League players. These early cards laid the foundation for the rich history of football card collecting.
