Top 50 Football Rookie Cards – NFL Rookie Cards Worth Money

Top 50 Football Rookie Cards

Get ready to dive into the world of football rookie cards and the legendary players who have cemented themselves in history as icons of the game. From Johnny Unitas to Walter Payton, these players have paved the way for today’s stars, and their rookie cards continue to hold immense value for collectors.

As we look closer at the top 50 most valuable football rookie cards, we’ll explore the stories behind these players, their rise to fame, and how they forever changed the sport. So buckle up and prepare for a journey through football history, one card at a time.

Disclaimer

This list is exclusive to Hall of Fame players and retired players only. No modern-day players like Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, or Joe Burrow cards are on here. Those cards will be on a different list. Also, the values of sports cards are constantly changing due to the market’s volatility. Please, pay attention to the dates on here and do your own research before spending money on a card.

#50
1982 Topps
Anthony Munoz RC #51
PSA 10 sold for $1,020

Check the value of the 1982 Topps Anthony Munoz Rookie Card on eBay

• Year: 1982
• Set: Topps
• Player: Anthony Munoz RC #51
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: June 2023
• Sale Price: $1,020
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Population: 41

Anthony Munoz, hailed as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history, solidified his reputation through a career replete with stellar and consistent play, safeguarding his quarterbacks and creating opportunities for his running backs. His formidable presence on the Cincinnati Bengals’ line and his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame underscore a legacy of skill, determination, and leadership.

A PSA 10 graded 1982 Topps Rookie Card (#51) of Munoz, symbolic of his unwavering performance and enduring legacy, commanded $1,020 at a PWCC Auctions sale in June 2023, demonstrating the sustained appreciation and value collectors find in this steadfast athlete.

#49
1982 Topps
Ronnie Lott RC #486
PSA 10 sold for $1,590

Check the value of the 1982 Topps Ronnie Lott Rookie Card on eBay

• Year: 1982
• Set: Topps
• Player: Ronnie Lott RC #486
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: July 2023
• Sale Price: $1,590
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Population: 102

Ronnie Lott, famed for his fearless and aggressive defensive play, indelibly stamped his legacy on the NFL, proving instrumental in leading the San Francisco 49ers to multiple Super Bowl titles during the 1980s. His willingness to lay everything on the line on the gridiron both inspired teammates and awed spectators.

In recognition of his stalwart defense and consequential NFL impact, a PSA 10 graded example of his 1982 Topps Rookie Card (#486) was secured for $1,590 in a PWCC Auctions sale in July 2023, spotlighting the enduring financial and nostalgic value encapsulated in memorabilia of this football titan.

#48
1973 Topps
Franco Harris RC #89
PSA 9 sold for $1,920

Check the value of the 1973 Topps Franco Harris Rookie Card on eBay

• Year: 1973
• Set: Topps
• Player: Franco Harris RC #89
• Graded: PSA 9
• Sale Date: July 2023
• Sale Price: $1,920
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Population: 119

Franco Harris, celebrated for the “Immaculate Reception” and his pivotal role in steering the Pittsburgh Steelers to multiple Super Bowl victories, has been immortalized in the annals of NFL history. His formidable, yet graceful, playing style made him not just a player, but an era-defining athlete who significantly impacted the league.

This is exemplified in the collector’s world where a PSA 9 graded 1973 Topps Rookie Card (#89) of Harris was procured for $1,920 in a PWCC Auctions sale in July 2023, a testament to the unwavering value and admiration fans and collectors alike hold for this legendary fullback.

#47
1998 Topps Chrome
Randy Moss Refractor RC #35
PSA 10 sold for $2,533

Check the value of the 1998 Topps Chrome Randy Moss Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1998
• Set: Topps Chrome
• Player: Randy Moss Refractor RC #35
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: September 2022
• Auction House: Goldin Auctions
• Sale Price: $2,533
• Population: 159

Randy Moss, a wide receiver who redefined the position with his electrifying speed and stunning vertical ability, perpetually left defensive backs in awe and fans on their feet throughout his NFL career. Known for his exceptional talent to “Moss” defenders—making seemingly impossible catches over them—his impact has left a tangible mark in the hobby world.

Commemorating his rookie season, a 1998 Topps Chrome Refractor Rookie Card (#35) of Moss, graded PSA 10, was snatched up for $2,533 at Goldin Auctions in September 2022. This sale underscored his lasting legacy and the high regard with which collectors hold his contributions to the sport.

#46
1984 Topps
Eric Dickerson RC #280
PSA 10 sold for $2,760

Check the value of the 1984 Topps Eric Dickerson Rookie Card on eBay

• Year: 1984
• Set: Topps
• Player: Eric Dickerson RC #280
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: November 2022
• Sale Price: $2,760
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Population: 131

Eric Dickerson, synonymous with deft agility and explosive speed, left an indelible mark on the NFL, notably for his record-breaking rookie season in 1983. His stellar performance on the field, especially his unmatched ability to find and exploit gaps in the defense, solidified his legacy and set a new paradigm for the running back position.

This reputation illuminates the collectibles market, where a PSA 10 graded example of his 1984 Topps Rookie Card (#280) fetched a commendable $2,760 at a PWCC Auctions event in November 2022, revealing a steadfast appreciation for this dynamic and record-setting athlete.

#45
1975 Topps
Mel Blount RC #12
PSA 10 sold for $3,480

Check the value of the 1975 Topps Mel Blount Rookie Card on eBay

• Year: 1975
• Set: Topps
• Player: Mel Blount RC #12
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2022
• Sale Price: $3,480
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Population: 31

Mel Blount, a cornerstone in the iconic “Steel Curtain” defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s, was not merely a player but a phenomenon on the gridiron. With his towering presence and a knack for making game-altering plays, Blount redefined the cornerback position, meriting him a respected spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

His influence on and off the field was monumental, mirroring the demand for his memorabilia in the collectors’ market. Consequently, a PSA 10 graded example of his 1975 Topps Rookie Card (#12) was snapped up for $3,480 in a PWCC Auctions sale in April 2022, underscoring the perpetual value attributed to this stalwart defender.

#44
1963 Topps
Deacon Jones RC #44
PSA 9 sold for $3,562

Check the value of the 1963 Topps Deacon Jones Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1963
• Set: Topps
• Player: Deacon Jones RC #44
• Graded: PSA 9
• Sale Date: December 2016
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions
• Sale Price: $3,562
• Population: 11 (with no PSA 10s)

The 1963 Topps Deacon Jones rookie card, graded at an elusive PSA 9, stands out as a key rookie card from the issue and is notably challenging to find. It’s one of only eleven to attain this PSA grade, presenting an unimprovable collectible item.

The card boasts impeccable centering, sharp corners, and pristine surfaces, complemented by crisp edges and sturdy MINT card stock, meriting collector attention.

#43
1963 Topps
Ray Nitschke RC #96
PSA 9 sold for $4,079

Check the value of the 1963 Topps Ray Nitschke Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1963
• Set: Topps
• Player: Ray Nitschke RC #96
• Graded: PSA 9
• Sale Date: September 2019
• Sale Price: $4,079
• Population: 13 (with no PSA 10s)

A standout Ray Nitschke rookie card sold for $4,079, in September 2019. Graded PSA 9, it is one of just thirteen to secure this elite ranking. The card dazzles with its freshly-pulled appearance and uncirculated features.

Notably, it displays perfect centering, sharp corners, and robust card stock, along with bright, flawless surfaces. Without a single blemish, it honors Nitschke, a celebrated Packer and iconic early linebacker, making it a notable and valuable collector’s item.

#42
1970 Topps
O.J. Simpson RC #90
PSA 9 sold for $4,250

Check the value of the 1970 Topps O.J. Simpson Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1970
• Set: Topps
• Player: O.J. Simpson RC #90
• Graded: PSA 9
• Sale Date: January 2023
• Auction House: eBay
• Sale Price: $4,250
• Population: 116 (with 1 PSA 10)

O.J. Simpson, famously known as “The Juice,” revolutionized the NFL with his unparalleled speed, agility, and powerful running back performance. Not only did his strategic mastery and capability to navigate through defensive gaps lead him to be the first to exceed 2,000 rushing yards within a 14-game season.

Simpson also transformed into an on-field spectacle, blending sheer force with finesse and establishing himself as a pivotal and transformative figure in football. Thus, it’s unsurprising that a PSA 9 mint condition example of his rookie card commanded $4,250 in a recent eBay auction.

#41
1986 Topps
Bruce RC #389
PSA 10 sold for $4,320

Check the value of the 1986 Topps Bruce Smith Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1986
• Set: Topps
• Player: Bruce Smith RC #389
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: January 2022
• Auction House: Heritage Auctions
• Sale Price: $4,320
• Population: 37

Bruce Smith, an embodiment of defensive prowess in the NFL, made an everlasting imprint on the sport with his remarkable ability to dismantle offensive lines and neutralize quarterbacks, amassing a record 200 career sacks. His formidable play, combined with his leadership, powered the Buffalo Bills through a historic run, resulting in four consecutive Super Bowl appearances.

A tribute to his unparalleled skill and significant impact on the league, a PSA 10 graded 1986 Topps Rookie Card (#389) of Smith was sold for $4,320 at Heritage Auctions in January 2022, reflecting the enduring admiration and value collectors and fans alike place on this defensive titan.

#40
1976 Topps
Jack Lambert RC #220
PSA 10 sold for $4,500

Check the value of the 1976 Topps Jack Lambert Rookie Cards on eBay

• Year: 1976
• Set: Topps
• Player: Jack Lambert RC #220
• Graded: PSA 10
• Sale Date: October 2022
• Auction House: Goldin Auctions
• Sale Price: $4,500
• Population: 28

Jack Lambert, synonymous with a steel-willed leadership and an unforgiving style of play, etched his name into NFL history as the menacing force behind the Pittsburgh Steelers’ legendary “Steel Curtain” defense. Anchoring the team as a middle linebacker, Lambert not only secured NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1974 and Defensive Player of the Year in 1976 but also propelled the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories.

A PSA 10 graded rookie card from the 1976 Topps set (#220), symbolizing his storied career and undeniable impact on the game, fetched $4,500 in an October 2022 sale through Goldin Auctions, underscoring the sustained collectible allure held by this indomitable football icon.

#15
1998 Playoff Contender
Peyton Manning RC Auto #87
PSA 10 sold for $53,000

1998 Playoff Contender Peyton Manning football rookie card

The 1998 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autograph of Peyton Manning is regarded as the “Holy Grail” of Manning rookie cards. Collectors highly covet this card for several reasons. Firstly, the autograph on the card is on-card, which is rare for modern products. Additionally, the Rookie Ticket Autographs were some of the earliest pack-pulled autographed cards in the industry.

➡️ Ultimate Peyton Manning Rookie Card List

The Playoff Contenders set was a premium set in the late 90s, and collectors have always competed for the finest examples. This set also includes numerous Hall of Fame players with Rookie Ticket Autographs, such as Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger, Eli Manning, and Kurt Warner. This feature adds to the collectability of the card.

Moreover, 1998 is the first year of the Rookie Ticket Auto, and since then, this card has held the top spot for the most valuable rookie cards. It is considered a must-have for any serious collector of football cards, and its value has continued to rise over the years.

The most recent PSA 10 example was sold in January 2020 by eBay seller Probstein123 for $53,000.

#14
1981 Topps
Joe Montana RC #216
PSA 10 sold for $54,000

1981 Topps Joe Montana football rookie card

Four Super Bowl championships and three Super Bowl M.V.P. awards are just a few accomplishments that cement Joe Montana in the G.O.A.T. conversation. Some collectors even argue that Montana is the greatest quarterback of all time, and it’s hard to disagree when you look at his impressive statistics.

➡️ Top 10 Joe Montana football cards!

Montana’s on-field performance is unlike any quarterback of the time. Under pressure, Montana’s cool and collected demeanor earned him the nickname “Joe Cool.” His leadership on and off the field inspired countless athletes. So it’s no surprise that a PSA 10 example of his rookie card recently sold for an impressive $54,000. The 1981 Topps Montana rookie is not just a piece of cardboard; it’s a symbol of Joe Montana’s greatness during his legendary career.

Pick up a lower-grade example on eBay and add this iconic rookie card to your collection today!

#13
1986 Topps
Jerry Rice RC #161
PSA 10 sold for $57,000

1986 Topps Jerry Rice football rookie card

The 1986 Topps Jerry Rice rookie card is possibly the most iconic football rookie card ever. Not only is it a rookie card of arguably the best NFL player to ever grace the field, but it is part of a set with an iconic design and loaded with Hall of Famers. For collectors of the ’80s and ’90s, the green borders with white horizontal stripes are likely engrained in your head. It’s an image that never fades and is a testament to Rice’s legacy.

For any true football card collector, the ’86 Topps Jerry Rice rookie is a must-have, and getting a gem mint example is proving more difficult. As of writing this article, PSA has graded 31,064 of the 1986 Jerry Rice rookie card. Of those examples, just 60 are in gem mint condition, and 1,060 are in mint 9. Proving just how difficult this set is to grade.

The highest sale of a PSA 10 example was in February 2021 by PWCC Auctions for $125,655. However, the value has come down, selling between $57,000 – $75,000.

#12
1966 Philadelphia
Gale Sayers RC #38
PSA 9 sold for $58,800

1966 Philadelphia Gale Sayers football rookie card

The 1966 Philadelphia football set is widely considered the crown jewel of the Philadelphia Gum Company’s four-year run of producing sets that exclusively feature National Football League players. With 27 Hall of Famers and 22 rookie cards, the set boasts an impressive collection of football legends. Notably, the set includes the key rookie cards of Dick Butkus, Gale Sayers, Bob Hayes, and Bob Brown, all of whom had successful careers and cemented their place in football history.

Alongside these iconic rookies, the set also features legends such as Johnny Unitas, Bart Starr, and Jim Brown, who retired before the 1966 season. Collectors and football enthusiasts recognize the 1966 Philadelphia football set as one of the most significant and valuable football card sets ever.

PSA graded 3,033 of the 1066 Philadelphia Gale Sayers rookies, with none grading 10, 35 grading mint 9, and 352 nm-mt 8. One of the 35 PSA 9 examples sold at auction in May 2022 for $58,800.

#11
1948 Leaf
Sammy Baugh RC (Red Shirt) #34
PSA 8.5 sold for $75,000

1948 Leaf Sammy Baugh football rookie card

Sammy Baugh’s legacy in the NFL is nothing short of extraordinary. Baugh set 13 records throughout his career in three distinct player positions: quarterback, punter, and defensive back. Moreover, he revolutionized the quarterback position by transforming the forward pass from an “act of desperation” into a lethal weapon on the field.

Even after retiring, Baugh’s influence on the game was evident through the two quarterback records he still holds – most seasons leading the league in passing and most seasons leading the league with the lowest interception percentage. However, his accomplishments extend beyond his quarterback skills. He also holds records for the highest single-season completion percentage and, most seasons leading the league in yards gained and completion percentage.

The Leaf 1948 Football set is a true gem for collectors of vintage football cards. This classic set boasts 98 cards spread across two series, each featuring a striking black-and-white portrait of players with a vibrant colorized jersey against a bold backdrop. The set includes both professional and collegiate athletes. A 1948 Sammy Baugh rookie card graded PSA 8.5 (Red Shirt Variation) was sold at auction in February 20221 by Heritage Auctions for $75,000.

#10
1933 Goudey Sport Kings
Red Grange RC #4
PSA 9 sold for $81,000

1933 Goudey Sport Kings Red Grange football rookie card

The 1933 Sport Kings R333 set, brought to the world by the Goudey Gum Company, is a collection of 48 cards, each measuring 2-3/8″ by 2-7/8″. The set’s card fronts showcase legends from various sports, including baseball, football, hockey, tennis, horse racing, dog-sled racing, and pilots. One of the unique features of the set is the inclusion of female sports icons from the era.

The card design is simple yet striking. The solid color background complements the colorized image of the respective sports hero. The set’s name, “Sport Kings Gum,” is printed in white lettering within a red rectangle at the top of the card. Meanwhile, the individual’s name is elegantly displayed in white lettering within a black rectangle at the bottom edge.

The card backs provide additional information, including the featured athlete’s name, sport, and a brief biography. The most sought-after football rookie cards in the set are Red Grange (#4), Jim Thorpe (#6), and Knute Rockne (#35). A PSA 9 example of Red Grange’s rookie card was sold at auction in July 2020 for $81,000.

#9
1962 Topps
Mike Ditka RC #17
PSA 9 sold for $94,710

1962 Topps Mike Ditka football rookie card

The 1962 Topps Football set was a hit with collectors and fans alike due to its captivating design and inclusion of noteworthy players. The set’s rookie cards of football legends such as Mike Ditka and Fran Tarkenton have become highly sought-after by collectors and continue to hold significant value. A PSA 9 Mike Ditka rookie card sold recently for $94,710 by Heritage Auctions.

However, the black borders of the cards were known to be susceptible to chipping, making it challenging to obtain high-quality specimens. As a result, finding a gem mint condition 1962 Football card has become a difficult task for collectors. There is only one PSA 10 example from the entire 176-card set, which is the Bears Team card #25.

In addition to the 176-card set, Topps released a 48-card “Football Bucks” insert set featuring images of football players and denominations ranging from $1 to $10. The “Football Bucks” set provided a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire something different from the standard card format.

#8
1976 Topps
Walter Payton RC #148
PSA 10 sold for $97,200

1976 Topps Walter Payton football rookie card

For numerous reasons, the 1976 Topps Walter Payton rookie card is a coveted item among football collectors. Payton’s impressive career stats include 16,726 rushing yards (2nd all-time), 110 rushing touchdowns (5th all-time), 3,838 rushing attempts (2nd all-time), 1977 MVP, and 9 Pro Bowls, secures his position as one of the greatest running backs in history. Moreover, his ability to excel in a more physically demanding and aggressive era of football makes his accomplishments even more remarkable.

Additionally, Payton’s philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted off the field, further contributing to his legacy. The NFL and NCAA continue to honor Payton’s memory through the annual “Walter Payton Man of the Year Award” and “Walter Payton Award,” respectively. These factors make the 1976 Topps Walter Payton rookie card a valuable and sought-after addition to any football memorabilia collection.

PSA graded 12,711 of the 1976 Topps Walter Payton rookie card. Of those examples, 54 are graded gem mint 10, with 692 in mint 9. Goldin Auctions sold one of the 54 PSA 10 examples at auction in March 2022 for $97,200.

#7
1935 National Chicle
Bronko Nagurski RC #34
PSA 7 sold for $97,200

1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski football rookie card

National Chicle Co. made a name for themselves with their 1935 “Football Stars” set, which features 36 cards measuring 2-3/8″ by 2-7/8″. The set’s distinctiveness lies in the beautifully rendered Deco-style patterns surrounding artistically depicted player likenesses.

The collection includes some of the era’s biggest names, such as Bronko Nagurski, Notre Dame Coach Knute Rockne (in a tribute card), Cliff Battles, Dutch Clark, and Ken Strong. Turk Edwards, Shipwreck Kelly, and Beattie Feathers are also highly sought after by collectors.

Originally released as a set of 24, Chicle added another 12, with card #34 featuring Nagurski, the most valuable and desirable football card of all, given its scarcity. Heritage Auctions sold a PSA 7 near mint example in May 2022 for $97,200.

Clark’s #1 card and #36 Bernie Masterson are other notable cards in the set. However, due to the rubber banding and light exposure, the opening and concluding cards are often found in lower grades than the others. Although the entire set is rare, the Nagurski card remains the collection’s crown jewel. PSA graded 199 examples to date with none grading gem mint 10, one mint 9, six nm-mt 8’s, and seventeen 7s.

#6
1933 Goudey Sport Kings
Jim Thorpe RC #6
PSA 9 sold for $138,000

1933 Goudey Sport Kings Jim Thorpe football rookie card

Jim Thorpe was a Native American athlete widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around athletes in history. Born in 1887 in Oklahoma, Thorpe excelled in football, baseball, and track and field. He won two gold medals in the 1912 Olympics, setting world records in the pentathlon and decathlon. Thorpe also played professional football and baseball and is considered one of the early pioneers of both sports.

He was inducted into numerous halls of fame and is synonymous with excellence in athletics. Thorpe’s legacy continues to inspire athletes today. His 1933 Goudey Sport Kings rookie card is one of the earliest football rookie cards ever produced and of the most iconic. PSA graded 383 examples, with none grading gem mint 10 and just four grading mint 9. Heritage Auctions sold the most recent PSA 9 example at auction in July 2020 for $138,000.

#5
1957 Topps
Johnny Unitas RC #138
PSA 9 sold for $144,000

1957 Topps Johnny Unitas football rookie card

The 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas football rookie card is a highly prized possession for football card collectors. Unitas is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His rookie card is an iconic representation of his legendary career. Furthermore, the card is part of the 1957 Topps set, known for its bright colors and sharp designs. Unitas’ image is captured in a classic quarterback pose, wearing his iconic high-top cleats and black high-top socks.

The card’s value has remained consistently high, even as the sports card industry has undergone various ups and downs. Moreover, the scarcity of high-grade examples has only increased its value. PSA has graded 3,986 of the 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas rookie cards, with only 8 examples graded as PSA 9 and none graded as PSA 10. In 2019, a PSA 9 Unitas rookie card sold for $144,000 at auction by Heritage Auctions.

Overall, the 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas rookie card is a valuable and highly sought-after collectible that represents the greatness of one of football’s most iconic players.

#4
1965 Topps
Joe Namath RC #122
PSA 9 sold for $264,000

1965 Topps Joe Namath football rookie card

Joe Namath’s 1965 Topps rookie card is one of the hobby’s most sought-after rookie football cards. Nicknamed “Broadway Joe,” Namath is a legendary quarterback who led the New York Jets to their first and only Super Bowl victory in 1969.

➡️ Top 9 Most Valuable Joe Namath football cards.

The card features a classic design, with Namath’s image prominently on the front against a colorful yellow background. It also includes his name, team, and position at the bottom. On the back, fans can find statistics from his college career at Alabama and a brief bio.

The value of a 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card can vary significantly based on its condition. PSA has graded 1,921, with only five in PSA 9 conditions and none grading gem mint 10. Heritage Auctions auctioned one of the five PSA 9s in February 2018 for $264,000.

Overall, the 1965 Topps Joe Namath rookie card is a highly collectible and valuable piece of football history, beloved by fans and collectors alike.

#3
1957 Topps
Bart Starr RC #119
PSA 9 sold for $288,000

1957 Topps Bart Starr football rookie card

Another iconic football rookie card deserving to be on the holy grail list of football rookie cards is Bart Starr’s 1957 Topps rookie. Starr is one of the greatest quarterbacks and Green Bay Packers ever. He won the first two Super Bowls and was named the MVP of both. His legacy with the Green Bay Packers is one of the best of any player associated with any team ever.

Simply put, Bart Starr is a legend and will always be remembered as such. His 1957 Topps rookie card is highly sought after and rare in high grades. PSA graded 2,171 with none grading gem mint 10 and only three grading mint 9. One of the three mint 9s sold at auction by Heritage Auction in February 2017 for a jaw-dropping $288,000.

#2
1958 Topps
Jim Brown RC #62
PSA 9 sold for $336,000

1958 Topps Jim Brown football rookie card

Jim Brown’s 1958 Topps rookie card is undoubtedly one of the most iconic football cards ever produced. Coveted by collectors worldwide. Its desirability is because Jim Brown is arguably the greatest running back in NFL history. Furthermore, the 1958 Topps set is one of the most significant vintage football card sets, further increasing the card’s appeal.

➡️ Top 10 Most Valuable Jim Brown Football Cards

The rarity of high-grade Jim Brown rookie cards only adds to their allure. Of the 4,814 cards submitted to PSA, none are graded gem mint 10, and just six are in PSA 9 conditions. These limited high-grade examples have fetched staggering prices at auction, including a record-setting $336,000 for one of the six PSA 9 examples sold by Heritage Auctions in February 2017.

If one of these six PSA 9 Jim Brown rookie cards were to hit the auction block today, it would undoubtedly command an even higher price. With its unmatched historical significance, rare high-grade availability, and the enduring legacy of Jim Brown, the 1958 Topps Jim Brown rookie card is an investment that collectors and football fans alike cannot afford to pass up.

#1
1971 Topps
Terry Bradshaw RC #156
PSA 10 sold for $430,500

1971 Topps Terry Bradshaw football rookie card

Terry Bradshaw’s 1971 Topps football rookie card in PSA 10 gem mint condition holds the record for the highest-selling football rookie card of a Hall of Fame player. Only three known PSA 10 examples and 21 PSA 9 graded cards exist, demonstrating the difficulty of obtaining these top grades.

The card’s high value is attributed to Bradshaw’s illustrious Hall of Fame career and the demanding grading criteria of even borders on the front and back, sharp corners, and crisp edges. It could command a substantial price if you are lucky enough to get your hands on one of these near-perfect condition specimens.