The Definitive Guide to Emmitt Smith Rookie Cards
Readers,
Greetings from the world of sports memorabilia! Today, we embark on an exciting journey to explore the coveted Emmitt Smith rookie card. For those unfamiliar with this iconic piece of sports history, Emmitt Smith is a legendary running back who left an indelible mark on the NFL during his illustrious career. His rookie card, issued in 1990, has become a highly sought-after collectible among football enthusiasts and investors alike.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the fascinating world of Emmitt Smith rookie cards, examining their significance, value, and key factors that influence their desirability. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate this captivating realm.
Historical Significance of the Emmitt Smith Rookie Card
- Emmitt Smith burst onto the NFL scene in 1990, joining the Dallas Cowboys as the 17th overall draft pick.
- The same year, his much-anticipated rookie card was released as part of the Pro Set Football card series.
- This card instantly became a highly coveted item among collectors, marking the beginning of Emmitt Smith’s legendary career.
Value and Factors Affecting Desirability
- Emmitt Smith rookie cards have consistently commanded high values in the collectibles market.
- The card’s value is primarily determined by its condition, with pristine or graded cards fetching significantly higher prices.
- Other factors influencing desirability include the card’s rarity, serial number, and any special features or autographs.
Variations and Subsets of Emmitt Smith Rookie Cards
- The 1990 Emmitt Smith rookie card has several variations and subsets to be aware of:
- The standard Pro Set card, the most widely distributed version.
- The rarer Pro Set Platinum card, featuring a distinctive silver border.
- The limited-edition Pro Set Diamond card, with only 100 copies produced.
- Each variation and subset carries unique characteristics and value.
Grading and Authentication of Emmitt Smith Rookie Cards
- Grading services, such as PSA or Beckett, provide impartial assessments of a card’s condition.
- Graded cards are assigned a numerical grade based on their overall quality and preservation.
- Authentication ensures the card’s authenticity and protects collectors from counterfeits.
- Professionally graded and authenticated cards can significantly enhance their value.
Key Features and Identifiers of the Emmitt Smith Rookie Card
- The Emmitt Smith rookie card is easily recognizable by its iconic design:
- A full-color action shot of Smith in his Dallas Cowboys uniform.
- The Pro Set logo and the 1990 copyright information.
- The player’s name and team are prominently displayed on the card’s front.
- Understanding these key features helps collectors identify and authenticate genuine cards.
Detailed Price and Value Breakdown of Emmitt Smith Rookie Cards
| Card Variation | Condition | Recent Auction Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Set | Mint (PSA 10) | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Pro Set | Near Mint-Mint (PSA 9) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Pro Set Platinum | Mint (PSA 10) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Pro Set Platinum | Near Mint-Mint (PSA 9) | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Pro Set Diamond | Mint (PSA 10) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
Conclusion
Readers, thank you for joining us on this exciting exploration of the Emmitt Smith rookie card. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights into this iconic piece of sports memorabilia.
If you’re eager to delve deeper into the world of collectibles, be sure to check out our other articles covering various sports, trading cards, and memorabilia. Until next time, happy collecting!
FAQs about Emmitt Smith Rookie Card
What is an Emmitt Smith rookie card?
An Emmitt Smith rookie card is the first commercially produced trading card featuring the NFL running back.
When was Emmitt Smith’s rookie card released?
His rookie card was released in 1989 as part of the Topps Traded set.
What is the value of an Emmitt Smith rookie card?
The value of an Emmitt Smith rookie card varies depending on its condition, rarity, and grading. Average value: around $50-$200. Gem Mint condition: $1,000+.
How can I identify an Emmitt Smith rookie card?
Look for a 1989 Topps Traded card (#160) featuring a photo of a young Emmitt Smith in a Dallas Cowboys uniform, with his name and position printed below the image.
What are the different types of Emmitt Smith rookie card variations?
There are several variations of the 1989 Topps Traded Emmitt Smith rookie card, including:
- Red-bordered "Tiffany" variation
- Gold-bordered variation
- Embossed variation
Is Emmitt Smith’s rookie card a good investment?
Emmitt Smith is a Hall of Fame running back and his rookie card is considered by many to be a valuable collectible. However, the market for sports cards can be volatile, so it’s important to do your research and invest wisely.
Where can I buy an Emmitt Smith rookie card?
Emmitt Smith rookie cards can be purchased from reputable dealers, online auction sites, and hobby shops.
How can I authenticate an Emmitt Smith rookie card?
To ensure the authenticity of an Emmitt Smith rookie card, it can be submitted for grading and authentication by reputable companies like PSA or Beckett.
Are there any counterfeits or reprints of Emmitt Smith’s rookie card?
Yes. It’s important to be aware of potential counterfeits and reprints of Emmitt Smith rookie cards. Carefully examine the card and compare it to known authentic versions.
What is the most valuable Emmitt Smith rookie card variation?
The most valuable Emmitt Smith rookie card variation is the PSA 10 Topps Traded Red Bordered "Tiffany" variation.
