Football cards are not just collectibles; they are treasures. Some of these cards are worth millions! From rookie cards to championship autographs, these items tell amazing stories. Fans and collectors love them for their rarity and value. The most expensive football cards reflect the passion and history of the game. They connect fans with legendary players and unforgettable moments. In this list, you will discover the top 10 cards that broke records. Each card has its own unique story, making it even more special. Whether you are a football fan or just curious, these cards will amaze you. Let’s dive into the exciting world of the most expensive football cards!
Here are the 10 Most Expensive Football Cards in the history
| Cards | Price |
| 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Patrick Mahomes Autographed Rookie Card #161 | $4,300,000 |
| 2000 Playoff Contenders Tom Brady Championship Ticket Autograph Rookie Card #144 | $3,107,372.40 |
| 1958 Topps Jim Brown Rookie Card #62 | $358,500 |
| 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady Rookie Card #118 | $312,000 |
| 2017 Panini Flawless Patrick Mahomes Rookie Card #4 | $312,000 |
| 1957 Topps Bart Starr Rookie Card #119 | $288,000 |
| 1965 Topps Joe Namath Rookie Card #122 | $264,000 |
| 2000 Bowman Chrome Tom Brady Rookie Card #236 | $233,700 |
| 1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie Card #148 | $228,000 |
| 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski Rookie Card #34 | $174,000 |
1. 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Patrick Mahomes Autographed Rookie Card #161
- Price: $4,300,000
- Year: July 2021
One unique aspect of this card is its one-of-one nature, meaning only one copy exists. It features an NFL Shield logo instead of a traditional patch. Graded NM-MT+ 8.5 by Beckett, it also boasts a perfect 10 for the signature. These rare qualities, along with its elegant design, make it one of the most expensive football cards and highly valuable to collectors.
Patrick Mahomes is not just a football star; he’s a cultural icon. His efforts for social causes and voter rights give this card deeper meaning. His influence in sports and society adds value, making the card more than just a collectible.
The 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield card is incredibly rare because Panini makes these cards in very small quantities. Combined with Mahomes’ star power, its exclusivity makes it a prized treasure in the trading card market.
2. 2000 Playoff Contenders Tom Brady Championship Ticket Autograph Rookie Card #144
- Price: $3,107,372.40
- Year: June 2021
One of the reasons this card stands out is its limited print run of just 100 copies, boosting its exclusivity. Moreover, it includes an on-card autograph from Tom Brady, adding to its appeal for collectors. The Championship Ticket variant, with its rookie card status and sleek design, attracts both new and seasoned enthusiasts.
This card represents Tom Brady’s journey from being a sixth-round draft pick to a seven-time Super Bowl champion. His story inspires fans and collectors, making this item more than just a card—it’s a tribute to hard work and success.
Collectors value its rarity and condition sensitivity. Out of the 71 cards graded by Beckett, only seven hold a BGS 9 rating. Such scarcity makes it highly prized. Due to its growing value, this is among the most expensive football cards and a great investment for fans of the game.
3. 1958 Topps Jim Brown Rookie Card #62
- Price: $358,500
- Year: November 2016
This card stands out for many reasons that add to its appeal. It is the only recognized rookie card of Jim Brown, one of the greatest running backs in football history. The card shows Brown in a powerful pose that highlights his strength, making it a favorite among fans and collectors. Its condition and grading greatly impact its price, with higher-graded cards selling for much more.
Jim Brown was not just a football star; he was a leader in the civil rights movement. His rookie card reminds people of a time when sports and social change went hand in hand. This mix of history and meaning makes it valuable to collectors.
The 1958 Topps Jim Brown Rookie Card #62 is rare, especially in Mint condition. It is one of the most expensive football cards today. Even lower-grade versions stay in demand, proving its lasting appeal.
4. 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady Rookie Card #118
- Price: $312,000
- Year: April 2021
The 2000 SP Authentic Tom Brady Rookie Card #118 stands out for its rarity and premium quality. Made with top-notch cardboard, it feels special to collectors. The card shows an iconic image of Brady at the start of his amazing career with the New England Patriots. It was part of a premium set, which makes it even more valuable and desirable. Variations, like parallels and graded versions, add to its charm and worth.
Tom Brady’s legendary status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history makes this card extra special. It doesn’t just mark the beginning of his career but also captures the spirit of football in America. With Brady’s seven Super Bowl wins, this card became a symbol of success in sports.
Only 1,250 copies exist, making it a rare gem. Its high-grade versions, like PSA 10, are among the most expensive football cards ever!
5. 2017 Panini Flawless Patrick Mahomes Rookie Card #4
- Price: $312,000
- Year: March 2021
This card stands out for its unique features, making it a top choice for collectors. It is a limited edition rookie card that includes an on-card autograph and a jersey patch from Mahomes. These details are key reasons why collectors value it so highly. The Panini Flawless set is also famous for its premium quality. Each card comes in a metal briefcase, adding an extra layer of excitement and luxury to the collecting experience.
Patrick Mahomes is not just an athlete; he’s a superstar. With MVP awards and a Super Bowl win, his career has skyrocketed. Fans love him both on and off the field. His popularity boosts the value of his collectibles, especially this rookie card.
The 2017 Panini Flawless Patrick Mahomes Rookie Card #4 is rare and highly sought after. As one of the most expensive football cards, it’s a prized treasure for collectors.
6. 1957 Topps Bart Starr Rookie Card #119
- Price: $288,000
- Year: February 2017
This card is unique for its design and rarity. The Bart Starr rookie card from the 1957 Topps set measures 2 ½” by 3 ½”. Its sharp edges, bright colors, and dynamic image of Starr in action make it highly appealing. Collectors value its high grades from grading systems, which boost its collectible status.
Bart Starr’s influence reaches beyond football. He led the Packers to two Super Bowl wins and showed great character off the field. His charity work, like helping the Rawhide Boys Ranch, inspires many. This makes his card special for fans and collectors.
The rarity of this card adds to its value. Few 1957 Topps Bart Starr #119 cards remain in great condition due to printing limits from that time. This scarcity increases its worth, making it one of the most expensive football cards today. It’s truly a prized piece of history.
7. 1965 Topps Joe Namath Rookie Card #122
- Price: $264,000
- Year: February 2018
The Joe Namath rookie card stands out with its bright colors and unique design, showing the style of the 1960s. It features Namath in his New York Jets jersey, capturing his early days as a rising football and cultural star. This card is special because it is the only rookie card of Broadway Joe, making it rare and highly valuable.
Namath became a legend in the 1960s with his bold promise of a Super Bowl victory in 1969, which he delivered. This win boosted the AFL’s reputation and led to its merger with the NFL. His card represents not only his football success but also a time when athletes gained celebrity status.
The rarity of the 1965 Topps Joe Namath Rookie Card increases its value. Its large size and delicate borders make it hard to find in perfect condition. No wonder it ranks among the most expensive football cards ever.
8. 2000 Bowman Chrome Tom Brady Rookie Card #236
- Price: $233,700
- Year: March 2021
This card stands out because of its excellent condition, with many graded as PSA 10, boosting its value. The Bowman Chrome series is famous for its glossy finish and sharp photos, making this card special. Its unique design and limited availability make it a must-have for collectors and investors.
Tom Brady’s impact goes beyond football, making this card more than just a collectible. As a seven-time Super Bowl champion, he symbolizes success and inspires millions. Owning this card means owning a piece of his incredible story and his legendary career.
The 2000 Bowman Chrome Tom Brady Rookie Card #236 is rare due to limited print runs, especially in top condition. Its value has risen as sports card investments grow. Its rarity, perfect condition, and Brady’s cultural impact make it one of the most expensive football cards in the world today.
9. 1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie Card #148
- Price: $228,000
- Year: February 2021
This card stands out because it is the only recognized rookie card of Walter Payton. He is one of the greatest NFL running backs of all time. The card’s artwork and print quality from the 1976 Topps set give it a special nostalgic appeal. Both seasoned collectors and new fans admire it. Its design and condition play a big role in its value, especially when graded by PSA.
Walter Payton’s legacy goes beyond football. He was a humanitarian and role model who created the Walter Payton Foundation. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame makes this card even more special. It inspires fans and preserves his story.
The 1976 Topps Walter Payton Rookie Card is rare. Cards in Mint condition (PSA 9 or higher) are hard to find. Collectors see it as a piece of football history and one of the most expensive football cards ever.
10. 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski Rookie Card #34
- Price: $174,000
- Year: August 2019
The 1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski Rookie Card stands out as one of the most expensive football cards. It features a powerful image of Bronko Nagurski, a key figure in football history. The card captures him in action, showcasing his strength during a time when players wore minimal gear. This design, part of the National Chicle set, is highly valued for its artistic style and its connection to early football.
Nagurski’s career with the Chicago Bears (1930-1937) made him an icon. His influence on the game led to the creation of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the best college football defensive player.
This card is rare, especially in high grades like PSA 7 and above. As a result, its price is high, and collectors highly seek it. The card’s historical value and connection to football’s early days make it an essential part of any collection.
Conclusion
The world of the most expensive football cards is truly exciting. These cards show more than value; they hold stories of legends and history. Each card, with its rarity and unique features, tells a tale that inspires collectors and fans. From Patrick Mahomes to Tom Brady, their cards celebrate greatness and passion for the game. These treasures will always connect football lovers and collectors across generations, making them priceless pieces of sports history.
FAQ’s
- What is the football most valuable card?
The 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Patrick Mahomes Autographed Rookie Card is the most valuable football card ever sold.
- How do I sell my football cards?
You can sell football cards by running an Ecwid store on your website, using social media platforms, or listing them on marketplaces like Amazon or eBay.
- Do football cards hold value?
Yes, football cards hold value based on rarity and condition. Rare cards in mint condition are worth more, while worn-out cards are worth less. Football fans often collect cards of players from the most popular football clubs, as these cards tend to hold sentimental and monetary value.
- What is the world’s most expensive sports card?
The 1952 Mickey Mantle baseball card holds the title of the world’s most expensive sports card.
- Are there fake Panini stickers?
Yes, fake Panini stickers exist. Initially, only rare stickers, like the “Iran Bogen” from England and specific France ‘98 series stickers, were counterfeited.
