The Top 7 Most Valuable Sports Cards That Have Been Sold On The Open Market

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(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Sports cards have become an essential part of sports memorabilia, capturing the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. These tiny pieces of cardboard carry immense historical significance and can fetch astonishing values on the market. In this article, we delve into the world of sports card collecting and present you with the top 7 most valuable sports cards ever known. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping prices and legendary players!

  1. Honus Wagner, 1909-1911 T206: The Holy Grail Honus Wagner’s T206 card is widely considered the Holy Grail of sports cards. With only about 50 to 200 copies believed to exist, its scarcity drives its value sky-high. In 2016, a Wagner card sold for a mind-boggling $3.12 million. The rarity, coupled with Wagner’s legendary status, makes this card an absolute gem.
  2. Mickey Mantle, 1952 Topps: The Iconic Rookie Card Mickey Mantle’s 1952 Topps rookie card is an iconic piece of baseball history. Its popularity and value stem from Mantle’s legendary career and the significance of this particular release. In 2021, a near-mint condition card was sold for a staggering $5.2 million, solidifying its position among the most valuable sports cards ever.
  3. Babe Ruth, 1916 Sporting News: The Great Bambino Babe Ruth is synonymous with baseball greatness, and his 1916 Sporting News card perfectly captures his larger-than-life persona. Known for its beautiful design and scarcity, this card commands immense value. In 2016, one sold for a remarkable $717,000, establishing its place as a highly sought-after treasure.
  4. LeBron James, 2003 Exquisite Collection Rookie Patch Autograph: The Modern Marvel The 2003 Exquisite Collection Rookie Patch Autograph card featuring LeBron James is a modern-day marvel. Limited to only 23 copies, this card is a favorite among basketball enthusiasts and card collectors. In 2016, one card fetched an astonishing $312,000, reflecting LeBron’s status as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
  5. Wayne Gretzky, 1979 O-Pee-Chee Rookie: The Great One Considered the holy grail of hockey cards, Wayne Gretzky’s 1979 O-Pee-Chee Rookie card is a treasure for any hockey enthusiast. Known for its scarcity and Gretzky’s legendary career, this card has seen record-breaking sales. In 2016, one card sold for an eye-popping $465,000, solidifying Gretzky’s status as “The Great One” on and off the ice.
  6. Tom Brady, 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Rookie Ticket Autograph: The G.O.A.T. Tom Brady’s 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Rookie Ticket Autograph card has skyrocketed in value over the years. As the most iconic football card in recent memory, its limited availability and Brady’s unparalleled success make it highly desirable. In 2021, a pristine example fetched a staggering $2.25 million, emphasizing Brady’s status as the G.O.A.T.
  7. Michael Jordan, 1986 Fleer Rookie: Air Jordan’s Rise Michael Jordan’s 1986 Fleer Rookie card symbolizes the rise of basketball’s most iconic figure. Its aesthetic appeal, combined with Jordan’s unprecedented dominance in the sport, makes it a must-have for collectors. In 2020, a PSA Gem Mint 10 card achieved a remarkable $738,000 at auction, reflecting the timeless popularity of His Airness.