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Collectibles

The 10 Most Expensive Comic Books Ever Sold

Much like trading cards and sneakers, comics are indelible collectibles in American pop culture, but what are the most expensive comic books ever sold? With their immense popularity during the 20th century, comic books have emerged as a viable alternative asset, much like fine art and rare wristwatches.

Comics also serve as the inspiration for the massive superhero film industry we see today. Countless box office hits and television shows have kept these heroes relevant across generations. As time has passed, the generation that grew up reading these comics now looks to purchase them for their rarity and nostalgia factor. In turn, some of these have gone from newsstands to auction houses, with many claiming a seven-figure price tag.

Today, instead of focusing on trading cards of our favorite characters, we will be counting down the 10 most expensive comic books ever sold. You’ll notice that all of these comics were graded by CGC, the top grading service for comic books. To keep the list fresh, we are only allowing each individual comic to appear once. Let’s jump right in and highlight some familiar pop culture faces.

RELATED: The Top 15 Marvel Rookie Cards to Scoop Up on eBay

10. 1939 Marvel Comics #1 “The Human Torch” CGC 9.4 – $1,260,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 11/21/19 via Heritage Auctions

To begin this list, we have a comic whose title has now grown synonymous with the superhero industry as a whole. This is Marvel Comics #1, which is graced by The Human Torch on the cover. While the branding looks a little different in 2024, there is no shortage of movies and series that come to mind when a name like Marvel pops up. Though this isn’t the same Marvel that Stan Lee would revitalize in the 1960s, this is still an immensely valuable comic. In 2019, it sold for $1.26 million through Heritage Auctions.

9. 1963 Marvel “The Amazing Spider-Man” #1 CGC 9.8 – $1,380,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 1/11/24 via Heritage Auctions

While this isn’t Peter Parker’s first comic-book appearance, it is the first issue of a series dedicated entirely to Spider-Man. Interestingly enough, several members of the Fantastic Four can be seen on the cover, which showcases an early crossover. Less than 40 years later, Spidey would get his own feature film in 2002, sparking the start of Marvel’s 21st-century dominance. This is the highest-graded copy on the entire list, notching a remarkable CGC 9.8 grade. It recently sold in January 2024 for just shy of $1.4 million.

8. 1961 Marvel Fantastic Four #1 CGC 9.2 – $1,500,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 4/7/22 via Heritage Auctions

With the recent casting announcement of the next installment of the Fantastic Four, some serious hype is building for the classic franchise. Even still, the franchise has been a mainstay in superhero lore since its first printing in 1961. With some subtle trailer drops, it will be interesting to see if the newest reboot adapts the classic logo and colors you see here. Regardless, this is a grail for any longtime comic collector, and it boasts an all-time high sale price of $1.5 million.

7. 1942 DC All-Star Comics #8 CGC 9.4 – $1,620,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 6/16/22 via Heritage Auctions

Many of the faces on this cover aren’t entirely recognizable today. But this All-Star cast actually features the first appearance of Wonder Woman in one of its pages, as well as glimpses into other beloved characters in the DC universe. When you think about how often these were flipped through and torn apart, a CGC 9.4 truly is an incredible grade. In 2022, this copy sold for over $1.6 million, nearly doubling the previous sale in 2017.

6. 1939 Detective Comics #27 “Batman” CGC 6.5 – $1,740,000
Golden Auctions

Date Sold: 5/21/22 via Goldin Auctions

While a later entry on the list will show Batman’s solo comic, Detective Comics #27 gives us our first glimpse at the Caped Crusader. As is the case with most pre-war memorabilia and collectibles, condition is instrumental to an item’s value. This comic dates all the way back to 1939, but its vibrant coloring is partly why it’s such a valuable piece today. This is the most valuable comic to sell through Goldin Auctions, finishing at $1.74 million.

5. 1940 DC Batman #1 CGC 9.4 – $2,220,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 1/14/21 via Heritage Auctions

For our money, this is the most aesthetically pleasing comic book ever created. Batman #1 sports the first appearance of The Joker and Catwoman, two DC characters with a massive modern fanbase. Additionally, this comic launched the Caped Crusader into immense popularity that has sustained all the way up to the present day. With a new Batman film slated for next year, it’s incredible to see Bruce Wayne’s 84-year run. This copy, graded a CGC 9.4 closed at well over $2 million in 2021.

4. 1941 Captain America Comics #1 CGC 9.4 – $3,120,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 4/7/22 via Heritage Auctions

Captain America’s creation coincided with the rise of fascism in Europe. It’s only fitting that we see Steve Rogers literally fighting Nazis in the first issue. Much like a Rosie the Riveter or Uncle Sam character, Captain America evoked a sense of patriotism during a perilous time. Over 80 years later, he’s an iconic character in the MCU, and his first issue is worth over $3 million. 

3. 1938 Action Comics #1 “Superman” CGC 8.5 – $3,250,000
ComicConnect

Date Sold: 4/6/21 via ComicConnect

Superman’s first comic book appearance dates back all the way to 1938’s Action Comics #1. The copy features Clark Kent heroically lifting up an old green Ford, and it gave young fans an early look at a beloved character. There has only been one copy graded higher, as a CGC 9.0 sold way back in 2011. With that one likely stowed away in a pristine collection, this 8.5 was the most recent chance for investors to own a piece of history like this. This one sold for an all-time high of $3.25 million in 2021.

2. 1962 Marvel Amazing Fantasy #15 “Spider-Man” CGC 9.6 – $3,600,000
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 9/9/21 via Heritage Auctions

Here we have the first appearance of your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. With an extensive lineage of comics, movies, video games, trading cards and more, Peter Parker is one of the most collectible and marketable names in all of popular culture. While it is still somewhat possible to find this Amazing Fantasy #15 out in the wild, it’s highly unlikely that we will see one in better condition. Graded a CGC 9.6, this one popped for $3.6 million during a 2021 Heritage auction.

1. 1939 DC Superman #1 CGC 8.0 – $5,300,000
CGC Comics

Date Sold: 2022 via Private Sale

At our top spot, we have the first solo appearance of Superman. This is actually the first comic solely dedicated to one character, and it’s fitting that the Man of Steel gets this honor. While the Krypton native may have taken a backseat to the limelight in the last decade, he is still a key fixture in Americana. This crisp copy of Superman #1 still has vibrant reds and blues nearly a century later, and it sold privately for over $5 million in 2022.

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Collectibles

The 15 Most Expensive Funko Pops! Ever Sold

Today, there is no figurine company as prominent as Funko, but what are the most expensive Funko Pops! ever sold? Initially founded in 1998, Funko Pops! are now the premier way to show fandom for an athlete, musical artist, superhero, or even a franchise altogether. 

Blending a compact but aesthetically pleasing design with undying nostalgia, Funko Pops! have become highly sought-after across generations. They are great gifts for everyone from Star Wars to Marvel fans, and they display very well for a serious collector. With the limited releases stemming from each year’s San Diego Comic Con, many of these early Pops! have skyrocketed in value. And with their timeless design, it’s not crazy to think that they haven’t reached their peak.

Now, we are going to show off the rarest of the rare. Let’s take a look at the 15 most expensive Funko Pops! ever sold. To keep the list organic, we are excluding any Pops! with autographs or second-hand additions. Without further ado, let’s dive right in and see the best of pop culture.

RELATED: The 82 Most Expensive Trading Cards Ever Sold

15. 2014 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “JOKER” – $15,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/the-joker-the-dark-knight-glow-in-the-dark-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Starting off the list, we have one of the most recognizable villains in all of fiction, the Joker. It is worth noting that many of these Comic Con exclusives are actually Pops! of the brand’s mascot, Freddy Funko. But in true SDCC fashion, Freddy is cosplaying as one of the more marketable characters in the DC universe. This glow in the dark variation peaked with an all-time sale price of $15,000. 

14. 2013 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “BATMAN” – $17,500
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/batman-black-suit-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Very fitting that the Joker is followed by his foil, Batman. With countless movie franchises and television series, the Caped Crusader is a household name. This limited edition release came in 2013, as the character was on the heels of its Dark Knight Trilogy. This one reached an all-time high of $17,500 in February 2022, which was around the same time of a new Batman movie debut. If you want to read about some more Caped Crusader collectibles, check out our article on the most expensive Batman trading cards ever sold!

13. 2012 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “BUMBLE” – $18,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/bumble-glow-in-the-dark-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Interestingly enough, the beloved Bumble from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer finds a spot on this list. These are another Comic Con exclusive with a rumored production run of just 12. With an $18,000 sale price, it becomes very evident why people hold these figures with such reverence. 

12. 2014 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “BOBA FETT” – $20,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/boba-fett-red-hair-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

With the recently revamped Disney+ show, Boba Fett is as relevant as ever. Here Freddy Funko is in the bounty hunter’s gadget-filled suit. Designs like these show the intricate detail of these Pops! Receive despite their small stature. There are 24 of these in existence, and one reached an all-time high of $20,000 last year.

11. 2013 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “JAIME LANNISTER” – $23,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/jaime-lannister-bloody-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Date Sold: 5/30/22

Jaime Lannister is an iconic character in the Game of Thrones anthology. While the show may not be at the forefront of pop culture these days, it was must-see TV for its eight running seasons. This “bloodied” variation pays homage to Lannister in an epic battle scene, and it sold for as high as $23,000.

10. 2012 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “V” – $24,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/v-for-vendetta-metallic-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Despite just one solo film. 2005’s V for Vendetta has developed a prominent following in the years since its release. Case in point: this rare special edition release from 2022 SDCC went for well over $20,000. With there only being 12 copies in existence, it will be interesting to see if a new sale could top this price in the coming years.

9. 2019 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “VENOM” – $30,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/freddy-funko-as-venom
HobbyDB.com

With two standalone films now, Venom has been a fixture in popular culture for decades. This SDCC drop debuted ahead of Tom Hardy’s first appearance as the alien symbiote and sold for a whopping $30,000 in June of 2023. Do you think Venom deserves another feature film in the near future?

T-7. 2013 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “GHOST RIDER” – $32,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/ghost-rider-metallic-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Ghost Rider may not have ever garnered the fandom of some of his Marvel counterparts, but he is still a deeply prolific comic book character. Portrayed by Nicolas Cage in the 2007 standalone film, Johnny Blaze may be in need of a modern reboot. Even still, this extremely rare piece from 2013 Comic Con is the most expensive Ghost Rider collectible ever, ending at an impressive $32,000.

T-7. 2011 GENERAL MILLS BOO BERRY – $32,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/boo-berry-glow-in-the-dark
HobbyDB.com

Date Sold: 10/24/23

Here is the first Pop! That wasn’t a rare Comic Con release. While most of the featured Pops! can be found on the silver screen, Boo Berry can be found in a supermarket aisle. Even still, the character’s glow in the dark capabilities make this one a sought-after piece. Boasting a production run of only 24, this one sold for an all-time high of $32,000 in 2023.

T-5. 2011 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “BUZZ LIGHTYEAR” (GLOW IN THE DARK AND METALLIC) – $35,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/buzz-lightyear-glow-in-the-dark-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Both the glow in the dark and metallic variations of Buzz Lightyear have sold for right at $35,000. These were an exclusive drop way back at the 2011 SDCC, one year after the box-office smash, Toy Story 3. From a collector’s standpoint, it seems as if both of these variations are worthwhile, and they are ones that likely won’t be selling again anytime soon.

4. 2012 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “TONY STARK” (METALLIC) – $43,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/tony-stark-metallic-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Perhaps no superhero has been as idolized as Iron Man in the 21st century. Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of the billionaire mogul brought fresh life into MCU, which culminated in an awe-inspiring performance in Avengers: Endgame. This metallic Iron Man Pop! was released in 2012, the same year as the first installment of the Avengers series. A $43,000 sale price secures it as the fourth-most expensive Funko of all time.

3. 2012 SDCC FREDDY FUNKO “CLONE TROOPER” – $45,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/clone-trooper-blue-hair-freddy-funko
HobbyDB.com

Funko and Star Wars collaborations are commonplace now; chances are, you may even have a Darth Vader Pop! sitting on your shelf. However, this iteration is anything but common. This blue-haired Freddy Funko sold for $45,000 in 2023, marking a $43,000 increase from its initial sale price of $2,025 in 2014.

2. 2013 CLOCKWORK ORANGE GLOW IN THE DARK – $60,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/clockwork-orange-glow-in-the-dark
HobbyDB.com

These Pops!, based on the 1971 film, were never supposed to become as rare as they are. But when A Clockwork Orange’s parent company filed a cease and desist, these were immediately halted and scrapped from production. As a result, few remain, and there are even fewer of the glow in the dark variations. It has been confirmed that one sold for as high as $60,000 in 2022.

1. 2016 SDCC WILLY WONKA AND OOMPA LOOMPA GOLDEN TICKET 2 PACK – $210,000
https://www.hobbydb.com/marketplaces/hobbydb/catalog_items/willy-wonka-oompa-loompa-gold-2-pack
HobbyDB.com

Willy Wonka is undoubtedly one of the most expansive and marketable cinematic universes to date. This “Golden Ticket” themed 2 pack is believed to be only one of 10 in existence, with four of them distributed during the 2016 Comic Con. With a clever play on the Golden Ticket’s rarity, it makes sense why this is the most valuable Funko Pop! in the world. While you’re not going to find these at GameStop, it’s hard not to appreciate just how collectible these figures have become.

Do you collect any Funko Pops? Let us know @CardTalkPod on Instagram and Twitter! 

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Collectibles

The 12 Most Expensive Tom Brady Cards of All Time

After 23 unparalleled years of greatness, the NFL’s all-time greatest quarterback finally decided to hang up the cleats last year. Tom Brady led some of the most remarkable comebacks and playoff efforts in the history of professional sports. The sixth-round draft pick was never the fastest, strongest or biggest gunslinger in the game. He did have one uncoachable x-factor in his arsenal: the guy just won. The result? Some of the most expensive Tom Brady cards have become some of the most valuable sports cards around.

Brady has become one of the most recognizable names in sports, alongside greats—who also boast crazy card prices—like Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky and Tiger Woods. TB12 also developed a massive fanbase during his tenure with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, bringing each of those franchises Super Bowl glory and winning an NFL record 5 Super Bowl MVP’s in the process. 

Today, we are highlighting the best of Tom Brady’s trading card market with his 12 most expensive cards ever. To keep the list fresh, we are only allowing each card to appear once. Let’s jump right in and showcase the most collectible football player of all time.  

RELATED: The Most Expensive Joe Montana Cards of All-Time

12. Tom Brady 2000 Upper Deck SPx Spectrum Rookie /25 – $194,400
https://goldin.co/item/2000-upper-deck-spx-spectrum-130-tom-brady-rookie-card-20-25-psa-gem-m1nk7m
Goldin

Date Sold: 8/6/22 (via Goldin Auctions

• Grade: PSA 10 

Kicking this list off, we have a rookie of Brady that you just don’t see pop up very often. This copy from 2000 Upper Deck SPx is limited to just 25 on the print. There’s no telling how many of these got tossed or put in a shoebox back in 2000. Who would have known the impact this guy would have on the game decades later? 

11. Tom Brady 2014 Panini Flawless Emerald Patch Autograph /5 – $198,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/4154
PWCC

Date Sold: 8/18/22 (via PWCC

• Grade: BGS 9.5 

Panini Flawless is one of the better card sets ever designed, and this card shows why. It features a three-color logo patch from Brady’s jersey and a bold on-card signature. With TB12 now only signing in Fanatics exclusive products, it may be a while before we see an auto as stunning as this one. It sold for as high as $198,000 in 2022. 

10. Tom Brady 2000 Fleer Autographics Rookie Gold /50 – $210,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/452
PWCC

• Date Sold: 9/19/21 (via PWCC

• Grade: PSA 10 

Here we have another numbered rookie autograph of the Michigan alum. This is the only Brady on the list that showcases him in his college uniform, and it’s paired with a bolded signature from the heralded Autographics set. While pro uniform cards typically hold a higher value, this is still an extremely rare card of Michigan’s most famous QB. 

9. Tom Brady 2014 Topps Chrome Superfractor 1/1 – $216,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/1445
PWCC

Date Sold: 12/19/21 (via PWCC

• Grade: BGS 9.5 

The shine and allure of Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome Superfractors will never get old in this hobby. This card sold at the peak of Brady’s market, so it may not be worth the same amount today. Regardless, this is a 1/1, so it’s always a card that the buyer gets to set their price. 

8. Tom Brady 2016 Panini Prizm Black Finite 1/1 – $240,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/2182
PWCC

Date Sold: 2/20/22 (via PWCC

Grade: BGS 9.5 

Only a handful of TB12’s Black Finite Prizms have hit the market, with the highest sale being this 2016 copy. This was also the year of the Patriots’ notorious 28-3 comeback in Super Bowl LI, a game that gave Brady his fifth ring. We don’t know if that ties into the final sale price, but this is still his best card from that historic season. It last sold for $240,000 during a February 2022 PWCC Premier auction. 

7. Tom Brady 2012 Panini Prizm Gold /10 – $264,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/4438
PWCC

Date Sold: 7/22/22 (via PWCC

Grade: BGS 9.5 

We cannot overstate the influence that the 2012 Panini Prizm set had on the hobby. For many (including myself), this set was an introduction into sports cards. The football and basketball products from 2012 are loaded with rookies, vets and HOFers, but this may be the best card of them all. Graded a BGS 9.5, this Gold Prizm has unparalleled eye appeal and grail potential for modern collectors. 

6. Tom Brady 2000 Bowman Gold #12/99 Rookie – $288,000
https://sports.ha.com/itm/football-cards/singles-1970-now-/2000-bowman-tom-brady-gold-rookie-236-bgs-mint-9-12-99-brady-s-jersey-number-/a/50049-57708.s?type=DA-DMC-CardLadder-Sports-50049-11182021
Heritage

Date Sold: 12/18/21 (via Heritage Auctions

• Grade: BGS 9 

With the black bordering and gold foil of this numbered Bowman rookie, a BGS 9 is a remarkable grade. Not to mention that this is #12/99 in the print run, which matches Brady’s jersey. Jersey matches bring a nice boost to numbered cards in the hobby, oftentimes 2-3x the value. This is a one-of-a-kind rookie that sold in 2021 and hasn’t hit an auction house since. 

5. Tom Brady 2000 SP Authentic Rookie Autograph /1250 – $360,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/755
PWCC

Date Sold: 10/23/21 (via PWCC

• Grade: PSA 10 / Auto 10 

While this autograph isn’t pack-issued, it still brought quite the premium at auction. In fact, TB12 doesn’t have a signature in the 2000 SP Authentic series; regardless, aftermarket autos have maintained a solid market throughout the hobby. This particular John Hancock features a 7x Super Bowl champ, so that helps too. Graded a PSA 10/10, you won’t find many better-looking Tom Brady cards. 

4. Tom Brady 2000 Fleer Showcase Masterpieces 1/1 Rookie – $396,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/3252
PWCC

Date Sold: 5/20/22 (via PWCC

• Grade: BGS 8.5 

The GOAT doesn’t have many rookie 1/1s at all, so this Fleer Showcases Masterpieces is in a class of its own. The old-school Beckett label shows that this stunner has likely passed from Brady collector to Brady collector. Additionally, the silhouette and design of this one make it one of the GOAT’s more aesthetically pleasing cards. In May 2022, it found a new home during a PWCC Premier auction for just shy of $400,000. 

3. Tom Brady 2000 Bowman Chrome Rookie Refractor – $498,000
https://goldin.co/item/2000-bowman-chrome-refractor-236-tom-brady-rookie-card-psa-gem-mt-10mv8kz
Goldin

• Date Sold: 10/22/22 (via Goldin Auctions

• Grade: PSA 10 

The New England quarterback didn’t appear in 2000 Topps or Topps Chrome, so this Bowman Chrome copy became the de facto flagship rookie card. In a PSA 10, this is only a POP 7, so you won’t find too many of these on the open market anytime soon. It last sold for just shy of half a million dollars in 2022. 

2. Tom Brady 2000 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autograph – $2,800,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/268
PWCC

• Date Sold: 10/22/21 (via PWCC

Grade: PSA 10 / Auto 10 

The foiling, rarity and neglect of this card make this PSA 10/10 even more impressive. Just think about how many of these were tossed into dollar bins in 2000. While this gem doesn’t bring the premium it brought in 2021, it’s still a worthwhile card to own, and it’s a grail for just about any serious football collector. 

1. Tom Brady 2000 Playoff Contenders Rookie Championship Ticket Autograph /100 – $3,107,372
https://auction.lelands.com/bids/bidplace?itemid=104093
Lelands

• Date Sold: 6/4/21 (via Lelands Auctions

• Grade: BGS 9 / 10 Auto

And in the top spot, we head back to 2000, when the Michigan QB was selected in the 6th round of the NFL Draft. Since he was not a top pick, this championship ticket was certainly not a chaser at its release. Fast forward two decades, and this card in a BGS 9 grade sells at Lelands Auctions for $3.1 million, and then again (according to CardLadder) on February 17, 2022, privately for $3.8 million. Since we can’t technically verify that sale, even though CardLadder is fantastic at vetting things before they go live on their site, we decided to use the one that sold via Lelands as Brady’s top sale.

Cards like these make you want to check the attic at Mom and Dad’s house to see if you pulled one and forgot about it. With TB12’s legacy cemented, this 2000 Contenders Auto is the most iconic football card in existence.  

Which of these on this list of most expensive Tom Brady cards of all-time would you most like to own? Let us know on Twitter @cardtalkpod

Categories
Collectibles

The 10 Most Expensive Sports Illustrated Magazines of All Time

Since 1954, S.I. has become an iconic brand in American popular culture, but what were the most expensive Sports Illustrated magazines of all time? It was recently announced that nearly all employees of Sports Illustrated would be laid off. While the decline of print media is undoubtedly noticeable, it was still a shock to see an icon of American media first go from publishing weekly to bi-weekly in 2018, then monthly in 2020, and in 2024, the publishing license has now been revoked by current owner, Authentic Brands while they navigate how to proceed with licensee, the Arena Group. 

Current negotiations aside, the millions of circulated copies left an indelible imprint on both sports media and American popular culture. While this might mark the end of an era, we believe that no matter how it plays out, S.I. will have an undying nostalgic impact for years to come. Physical media is being graded more and more by licensed companies who look to evaluate condition, as illustrated by our list of the most expensive trading cards ever sold. Because of this, many magazines, including S.I., have garnered immense popularity and secondary market value. 

In honor of Sports Illustrated’s legacy, we are counting down the 10 most valuable copies of all time. Without further ado, let’s dive right in and take a glimpse through the last 70 years of sports! 

Related: Top 20 Most Expensive Basketball Cards Ever Sold

10. 1983, #V59 #23, “Jordan’s First Appearance” – $11,400
https://goldin.co/item/1983-sports-illustrated-v59-college-basketball-preview-featuring-michac1o73?queryId=eyJxdWVyeUlkIjoiNWQ3ZGNhYTkxZjljZWY2NWNjYjFlNzI0NTMyZGRlYmQiLCJjYXJkSW5kZXgiOjF9
Goldin

Sold on: 1/09/22 (via Goldin Auctions

Grade: CGC 8.5

This is Michael Jordan’s first (but certainly not last) appearance on an S.I. cover, and it shows him during his time as a North Carolina Tar Heel. Jordan played a pivotal role in the ‘82 title run, knocking down a last-second jumper in the championship game against Georgetown. It was then that he and Coach Dean Smith knew he would be a star, which is why people are paying five figures for this magazine 40 years later. 

9. 1963, #V18 #23, Muhammad Ali – $13,200
https://sports.ha.com/itm/boxing-collectibles/memorabilia/1963-cassius-clay-muhammad-ali-first-sports-illustrated-magazine-cgc-92-pop-1-2-with-4-higher/a/50058-53537.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

• Sold on: 8/28/22 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.2

You’ll quickly notice a common theme on this list: many of the covers will be graced by American sports legends. This incredible shot of Muhammad Ali is a great example, as a looming view of London’s Big Ben rests in the background. Ali, then Cassius Clay, would go on to defeat Henry Cooper in a bout inside of Wembley Stadium. 

8. 2002, Tom Brady “Super Bowl Champions” – $13,800
https://sports.ha.com/itm/football-collectibles/publications/2002-tom-brady-sports-illustrated-presents-super-bowl-champions-magazine-cgc-98-highest-graded/a/60018-60092.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: 3/26/22 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.8

As the only copy on this from the 21st century, there’s only a couple of names that would fit the bill for it. This guy certainly meets the criteria. With seven Super Bowl rings and just about every QB statistical record, Tom Brady is a highly collected name in memorabilia who may have just sniffed the surface of his long-term market. 

7. 1967, #V27 #1, Roberto Clemente – $19,078
https://catalog.scpauctions.com/JULY_3__1967_SPORTS_ILLUSTRATED_ROBERTO_CLEMENTE_F-LOT52033.aspx
SCP Auctions

• Sold on: 9/10/22 (SCP Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.0

Roberto Clemente’s impact on the lineage of baseball cannot be overstated. He’s an all-time great who is widely collected by fans of the game.This 1967 copy is very emblematic of its era, as it’s draped with an array of patterns and a unique color palette. It graded a CGC 9.0 and sold for nearly $20,000 in 2022. 

6. 1980, #V52 #9, “Miracle on Ice” – $25,000
https://sports.ha.com/itm/hockey-collectibles/publications/1980-miracle-on-ice-sports-illustrated-magazine-cgc-96-pop-one-one-higher/a/50063-80718.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: 8/20/23 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.6

You can make the case for some other features on this list, but no cover is more recognizable than Team USA’s historic victory over the Soviet Union in the 1980 Winter Olympics. This photo will forever immortalize that moment, and it is encapsulated with a nearly flawless 9.6 grade. 

5. 1956, #V4 #25, Mickey Mantle – $27,600
https://sports.ha.com/itm/baseball-collectibles/publications/1956-mickey-mantle-rookie-sports-illustrated-magazine-cgc-90/a/50058-53465.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: 8/28/22 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.0

When it comes to trading card collecting, no name rings out louder than Mickey Mantle. While not quite as prolific in the magazine market, the Mick is still deeply treasured as a Yankee and a definite contributor to Americana. This piece, which displays an impeccable close-up shot, sold at Heritage Auctions in 2022. 

4. 1981, #V55 #16, Wayne Gretzky – $30,000
https://sports.ha.com/itm/hockey-collectibles/publications/1981-wayne-gretzky-sports-illustrated-first-cover-cgc-94-with-one-higher/a/50052-81135.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: 2/27/22 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.4

Iconic Oilers uniform. Immaculate coloring. The Great One. This one checks all the boxes, and it is remarkable to see the oranges and blues pop out so well 40 years later. Gretzky is grouped with those names like Jordan, Tiger, and Brady, and for good reason. The guy just won games, so it’s no wonder why a collector was willing to pay up to $30,000 for this copy in 2022. 

3. 1964, #V20 #15, Sandy Koufax – $32,400
https://sports.ha.com/itm/baseball-collectibles/publications/1964-sandy-koufax-sports-illustrated-magazine-4-13-cgc-98-pop-one-none-superior/a/50061-81058.s?ic4=GalleryView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: 2/26/23 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.8

This canvassed portrait of HOF’er Sandy Koufax epitomizes S.I. as a crossroads between sports and art. The southpaw’s iconic wind-up is in full display, and it is covers like these that make the Dodger as memorable as he is 60 years later. In February of last year, this 9.8-graded copy sold for north of $32,000. 

2. 1961, #V15 #18, Wilt Chamberlain – $60,000
https://twitter.com/crackerjack1915/status/1650997366441357316?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
Rally

Sold on: 4/25/23 (via Rally

Grade: CGC 9.4

In this shot, basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain stands in the background behind his coach, Frank McGuire. Yet, his 7’1” frame juts through half the page. Wilt was a budding star, and here he is only a few months removed from scoring 100 points in a single game. That’s a record likely never to be broken, and we will also likely never see a higher-graded copy of this $60,000 magazine. 

1. 1984, #V61 #26, Michael Jordan “A Star is Born” – $126,000
https://sports.ha.com/itm/basketball-collectibles/publications/1984-sports-illustrated-magazine-michael-jordan-a-star-is-born-newsstand-edition-cgc-98-highest-graded-exemplar-/a/50063-80666.s?ic4=ListView-ShortDescription-071515
Heritage Auctions

Date Sold: 8/20/23 (via Heritage Auctions

Grade: CGC 9.8

For us, it makes total sense to see His Airness landing at the number one spot on this list. Jordan’s high-flying playstyle and bold university red uniform made nearly every picture of him look iconic. Case in point: this snapshot from MJ’s rookie year has an almost prophetic tagline. 15 years after this issue, #23 would solidify himself as the game’s best player. This incredible copy, graded a CGC 9.8, recently sold for $126,000. 

Did you grow up on Sports Illustrated? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter @CardTalkPod! 

Categories
Collectibles

The 20 Most Valuable Baseball Cards of the 1980s

You may have a stash of old baseball cards from the 1980’s laying around in your childhood closet, but do any of them have any real value? You should probably track them down and see if any of the cards on this list of most valuable baseball cards of the 1980’s pop up. If you do find a few and they are in good condition, make sure you check out our article on where and how to get them graded!

Most of the cards from this time are associated with the “Junk Wax Era,” where overproduction and poor card quality resulted in most people’s collections barely being worth the price of the cardboard they are printed on. However, as illustrated on this list, it is possible to uncover a diamond in the rough.

Related: The 20 Most Valuable Baseball Cards of All-Time

Players like Bo Jackson, Rickey Henderson, Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken, Mark McGwire and Tony Gwynn have remained popular in the hobby. Collectors of these legends grew up and allowed nostalgia to kick in, spending big on their best cards. Over time, some of these pieces became immensely popular and valuable, with thousands of collectors chasing after them.

Today, we will be taking a look at the 20 most valuable baseball cards of the 1980s. To keep the list fresh, we are only allowing each individual card to appear once. Let’s jump right in and take a trip down memory lane!

Sales data courtesy of CardLadder

20. Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Fleer Glossy Rookie PSA 10 – $8,595
PWCC

Sold on: eBay (2/7/2021)

To start the list off, we have the most collected name from the junk wax era. Ken Griffey Jr. is still a highly celebrated and beloved athlete today, and his on-field achievements make him one of the best hitters of all time. The glossy variation from 1989 Fleer is highly sought-after, reaching an all-time high of $8,595 in early 2021.

*Note: the card shown above is from a PWCC sale in May 2021

19. Ryne Sandberg 1983 Topps Rookie Autograph PSA 10 Auto 10 – $9,150
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (3/16/2021)

Although Sandberg was never able to bring a ring back to Wrigleyville, he is a fan-favorite for the Cubs. An MVP winner, “Ryno” posted a career batting average of .285. This 1983 Topps rookie features an on-card signature with an inscription, and it sold for over $9,000 at a PWCC Weekly Auction.

18. Kirk Gibson 1981 Topps Rookie PSA 10 – $9,900
Heritage Auctions

Sold on: Heritage Auctions (8/29/2022)

Kirk Gibson was not the best player of his era in any statistical category. He had a more important skill set: the clutch gene. Gibson’s heroic walk-off homer in the 1988 World Series immortalized him in the lore of America’s pastime, and many fans collect his trading cards today. This 1981 Topps rookie sold for just shy of $10,000 in late 2022.

17. Nolan Ryan 1980 Topps PSA 10 – $10,700
eBay

Sold on: eBay (8/16/2022)

The right-handed flamethrower played in 4 different decades of the MLB, so this 1980 Topps copy is far from Ryan’s rookie card. Even still, the sensitive condition of the set makes it a rarity in that coveted PSA 10 grade. It has sold for right around $10,000 multiple times, with an all-time high of $10,700 in 2022.

16. Barry Bonds 1987 Fleer Rookie BGS 10 – $11,000
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Vault (5/16/2021)

Now, this may be a card you have in a shoebox somewhere. However, chances are it is not in the pristine condition like the copy shown above. With a prominent blue border, securing one of these in a perfect grade is no easy task. Despite Bonds’ steroid usage, MLB’s home run leader is still a collected and beloved player to this day.

15. Kirby Puckett 1984 Fleer Update Rookie Autograph PSA Authentic – $13,200
Robert Edward Auctions

Sold on: Robert Edward Auctions (10/28/2018)

With Puckett’s unfortunate passing in 2006, there are very few hard-signed autographed copies of his rookie card. It’s even rarer to see one authenticated by PSA, which is why this is undoubtedly Puckett’s most valuable card. It sold for as high as $13,200 way back in 2018.

14. Ken Griffey Jr. 1988 Best Platinum Rookie PSA 10 – $13,762
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (7/16/2021)

The Kid’s 1989 Star Rookie is the most recognizable card of its era. However, many have never seen this early XRC from 1988 that shows Griffey in his San Bernardino Spirit uniform. Thankfully for baseball fans, Junior’s stint in the minors was short, and he would make his professional debut later that year.

13. Bo Jackson 1986 Topps Traded Tiffany Rookie PSA 10 – $14,000
eBay

Sold on: eBay (5/7/2022)

While his professional career was cut short due to injury, many regard Bo Jackson as the greatest athlete in American sports history. The man flew up outfield walls and made warning track throws look like a game of catch. 1986 Tiffany has a print run of around 5,000, and there are only 37 known PSA 10s of this card. Jackson’s ‘86 Tiffany has sold for as high as $14,000, but newer sales range from $10,000-12,000.

12. Tony Gwynn 1983 O-Pee-Chee Rookie PSA 10 – $17,500
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Vault (8/10/2023)

Tony Gwynn is likely the best pure hitter baseball has ever seen, yet he doesn’t get as much love in the hobby as he probably should. However, we’ve seen the legendary Padre have many new all-time high sales, including this O-Pee-Chee PSA 10 rookie. Interestingly enough, some of the card’s text is written in French, as O-Pee-Chee had a strong foothold in Canada at the time.

11. Cal Ripken Jr. 1982 Topps Traded Rookie PSA 10 – $20,101
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (2/25/2021)

Ripken, like many stars of his time, has a Topps rookie card that he shares with fellow Oriole teammates. However, #8 got his standalone card in the ‘82 traded set, which has proved to be more desirable over time. The small packaging of the early Topps Traded sets made them susceptible to wear and tear, so finding a gem mint 10 was not easy. This stunner sold for an all-time high of $20,101 in February 2021.

10. Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Bowman Tiffany Rookie PSA 10 – $21,000
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (3/16/2021)

While 1989 Bowman may be notoriously oversized, it is still one of the most iconic sets of the junk wax era. This Griffey rookie was also reimagined during Topps’ Project 2020, and several other iterations have found their way into products since. This Tiffany PSA 10 currently stands as a POP 157, and it makes for a great addition to any Griffey collection.

9. Roger Clemens 1985 Topps Tiffany Rookie PSA 10 – $22,600
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (3/16/2021)

While much of Roger Clemens’ career was marred by steroid allegations, the Ohio-born pitcher was dominant on the mound throughout his time in the Majors. His ‘85 Topps copy is considered by most to be his true rookie card. When you can find it in the elusive Tiffany set, it can be worth upwards of $20,000. This PSA copy closed at just under $23,000 back in 2021.

8. Cal Ripken Jr. 1980 Charlotte O’s Police Team Issue (Orange Border) Rookie PSA 6 – $24,401
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (7/16/2021)

We’ve spoken before about the rise of alternative rookie cards, which are often rarer than a player’s flagship RC. This comes when a smaller company (who are oftentimes unaffiliated with the hobby) produces a set of trading cards. Some, like the Charlotte Police Department’s team issue set, end up having future Hall of Famers in the checklist. This PSA 6 copy of the Iron Man sold for as high as $24,401 during a 2021 auction.

7. Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Donruss Rated Rookie Auto PSA 10 Auto 10 – $25,101
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (2/25/2021)

This is The Kid’s first Donruss Rated Rookie, and it received a perfect 10 grade on the card and the autograph. While Griffey still signs in many modern high-end releases like Topps Dynasty and Panini Flawless, there is something special about getting ink on his iconic rookies. 

6. Mark McGwire 1985 Topps Tiffany Rookie #401 PSA 10 – $30,000
PWCC

Sold on: eBay (3/24/2021)

Here we have the quintessential Mark McGwire grail. This 1985 Topps Tiffany rookie takes up seven of the eight highest Big Mac sales ever, and it’s one of the most coveted cards from the junk wax era. Topps Tiffany cards have a notoriously lower print run than regular sets from the time, and they were printed on a higher-quality cardstock.

The photo shows a then 21-year-old McGwire when he was on the U.S.A. national team, long before his tenured stays in Oakland and St. Louis. There are only 35 PSA 10s of this card, and it has sold for as high as $30,000 from a 2021 eBay best offer.

**Note: the card photographed above is from an April 2021 PWCC auction, which sold for $27,800.

5. Barry Bonds 1987 O-Pee-Chee Rookie MBA Certified PSA 10 – $31,200
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (5/20/2022)

In the late 50s, Canadian-based company O-Pee-Chee launched a joint campaign with Topps to produce hockey and baseball sets in Canada. While the name is still used for hockey products, O-Pee-Chee last released an MLB product in 1994. 

This ‘87 O-Pee-Chee is valued similarly to Bonds’s 1986 and 1987 Topps Tiffany, for both sets were hard to come by. This particular copy received both a PSA 10 grade and an MBA certification, and it last sold for $31,200 in May 2022.

4. Barry Bonds 1987 Donruss Opening Day Rookie (Johnny Ray Error) BGS 10 – $33,000
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (5/21/2021)

While the junk wax era may not have produced the most aesthetically pleasing trading cards, they did inadvertently create several crown jewels for collectors. Error cards have always existed in the hobby, but some during the 1980s/1990s have reached an unrivaled level of infamy.

Case in point: this 1987 Donruss Opening Day rookie mistakenly features a picture of veteran Johnny Ray instead of a young Bonds. The error was quickly patched in the other Donruss sets from that year, but many Johnny Ray errors were still in circulation. The one shown above also achieved a BGS 10 grade, selling for $33,000 in May 2021.

3. Barry Bonds 1986 Topps Traded Tiffany Rookie BGS 10 – $40,800
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (9/19/2021)

At the #3 spot, we have the undeniable Barry Bonds grail. 1986 Tiffany has a print run of around 5,000; if you’ve seen one of these in person, you know just how much they pop out in a showcase.

This particular copy is graded a BGS 10 (Pristine), which is typically more coveted and harder to achieve than a PSA 10. On a card with black borders and lettering, getting this grade is nearly impossible. So it’s no surprise that this one went as high as $40,800 during a September 2021 auction.

2. Ken Griffey Jr. 1989 Upper Deck Star Rookie Auto PSA 10 Auto 10 – $55,201
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (3/16/2021)

It’s not often that this card receives both a PSA 10 card and autograph grade. As we mentioned earlier, pack-issued autographs did not really exist in 1989. There is an intrinsic value to junk wax era cards that have been autographed and slabbed, which is evident in this stunner. Griffey’s Upper Deck ‘89 Auto has sold for as high as $55,000, and this is still a big chase for any high-end collector.

1. Rickey Henderson 1980 Topps Rookie PSA 10 – $180,100
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Weekly Auction (2/15/2021)

Finally, we have an iconic rookie card of one of the coolest players to ever do it. Rickey Henderson’s career spanned 25 seasons, and he is the game’s all-time stolen bases leader. With Rickey’s body of work, that is a record likely to stand the test of time. Despite this 1980 copy not being a particularly rare rookie, there are only 26 PSA 10s in existence. For many, this is a grail piece, and it’s by far the most valuable card of the 1980s.

Categories
Collectibles

The 10 Most Valuable Marvel Trading Cards Ever Sold

So you’re wondering what the most valuable Marvel trading cards ever sold were? Let’s talk about it!

It is no secret that the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its subsidiaries have dominated pop culture in the 21st century. Stan Lee’s beloved characters have graced posters, Halloween costumes and the big screen for decades. In turn, heroes like Spider-Man and Captain America have become as collectible as real-life athletes.

Related: The Most Valuable Trading Cards Ever Sold

In 2022, we witnessed the meteoric rise of Marvel cards, with many all-time highs being posted in auction houses. This included a Precious Metal Gems Spider-Man card that sold for nearly $200,000. But we’ll get to that a little later.

We are going to analyze the evident volatility of the Marvel market, as well as some of the best sets and cards you can pick up. If you’re a hardcore MCU fan who is just getting into the Hobby, this could be your niche. There is no shortage of comic book cards with brilliant artwork and stunning eye appeal. 

Let’s break down the market as a whole and showcase some very valuable cards along the way!

Where It Began: 1990 Impel Marvel Universe Series I
eBay

When you search eBay for “Marvel rookie PSA” cards, you might be as surprised as I was to discover that most of the popular cards that come up are all from the very same set.

I did some digging, and as it turns out, the first of four sets from Impel (and SkyBox as they later became), happens to contain the inaugural “rookie” cards of all your favorite Marvel superheroes and villains. That should make things easy, right? Let’s get into it.

The 1990 set has a 162-card checklist. The first half is dedicated to individual hero cards, while the second half includes several subsets. There are even six cards labeled “rookies” that could prove to be a play if you’re a Ghost Rider or Guardians of the Galaxy fan.

You could flip a high-grade version of pretty much any card from this set because they’re all quite rare. And since it’s the de facto Marvel rookie release, you can bet there are a lot of collectors out there trying to piece together the whole thing.

Let’s showcase some of the better cards you can find in the set and their value:

Captain America – $125
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/items/2603619
PWCC

Two years ago, at the height of the card market boom, this card sold for well over $4,000 at PWCC. Today, you can buy it for $100-150. While that drop in value is jarring, it does make this visually striking card much more affordable. Furthermore, the Cap has cemented himself as one of the most iconic superheroes in film history, so this is an easy add to the personal collection if you ask us.

Spider-Man: $550
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/vault-marketplace/551368?srsltid=AfmBOoqB5imwKJ8rH7KHFR_BtdmpAGJ0ckjKHYVkSXIJAG0Jt56YRs7mg-Q
PWCC

With the box office success of Spider-Man: No Way Home and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, everyone’s favorite web-slinger grows even more notorious. Spidey has definitely remained the most valuable card from this set, as PSA 10s still trade steadily above $500 on eBay with asking prices all over the place, including this one for $1250 on PWCC. We see this as a blue chip addition in the realm of card collecting since Spider-Man is one of the most recognizable figures in the world.

Thanos – $150
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/items/3921642
PWCC

We’d be remiss to not mention a villain or two while we were at it. Thanos has emerged as the most infamous film antagonist of the 21st century, aside from maybe The Joker. His quotes and calmness as a villain stunned viewers, and we all remember how we felt leaving the theater after Infinity War. If you want a cool PSA 10 with unparalleled artwork, look no further. Plus, you can pick up this Thanos “rookie” for under $150 like the example in the above photo from PWCC.

The Precious Metal Gem Rush
Goldin

Many niche markets were explored (and sometimes exploited) during the Hobby’s pandemic boom. In certain areas, Marvel was subject to astonishing price rises. This was most evident with the Precious Metal Gems (PMG) sets, which are some of the most desired paralleled cards in the world. We’ve talked extensively about the impact of PMGs in the basketball and football market, with players like Kobe and Jordan each having a seven-figure PMG sale. However, your friendly neighborhood superheroes are worth a pretty penny too.

With that being said, let’s break down the top 10 most expensive Marvel cards ever sold. As you will see, many of the aforementioned PMGs will crack the list.

10. Morbius 2017 Fleer Ultra Marvel PMG Gold 1/1 BGS 9 – $50,400
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/2643
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (3/22/2022)

To start the list off, we have an elusive gold 1/1 PMG. Morbius finally got a standalone film in 2022, bringing the character into the mainstream. For a hardcore Marvel collector, this is by far the best Morbius card you’ll find. It sold for over $50,000 in March of 2022.

9. Doctor Strange 2013 Fleer Retro Marvel PMG Blue /50 BGS 8.5 – $52,806
https://goldin.co/item/2013-marvel-fleer-retro-pmg-blue-13-doctor-strange-25-50-bgs-nm-mt-8-5f4cu1
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (2/24/2022)

Played on the silver screen by Benedict Cumberbatch, Doctor Strange became a fan-favorite of the MCU. With eye-popping artwork, we can see why this 2017 Fleer Ultra PMG is so highly coveted. Graded a Beckett 8.5, this copy sold for $52,806 in February of 2022.

8. Hulk 2015 Fleer Retro Marvel PMG Blue /50 PSA 10 – $57,720
https://goldin.co/item/2015-fleer-retro-marvel-pmg-blue-20-hulk-44-50-psa-gem-mt-10c5k8z
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (2/24/2022)

With a final price of over $57,000, this marks the most expensive card of the Hulk to sell in a public auction. Unlike any other copy on this list, this blue PMG secured an extremely rare PSA 10 grade, which is almost unheard of for a metal trading card. Long term, we could see these low pop copies become highly sought-after.

7. Wolverine 2013 Fleer Retro Green /10 BGS 8.5 – $73,200
https://goldin.co/item/2013-fleer-retro-marvel-metal-precious-metal-gems-green-16-wolverine-0khwc7
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (5/21/2022)

While not found in the traditional MCU timeline, Wolverine has an undeniable fan base from the extensive comic series, TV shows and X-Men franchise. He’s also one of the more nuanced and complex heroes on the list, which may be why he still collected to this day. This green PMG sold for over $70,000, marking the most expensive Wolverine sale of all time.

6. Spider-Man 2013 Fleer Retro PMG Red /100 PSA 9 – $78,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/2176
PWCC

Sold on: PWCC Premier Auction (2/20/2022)

Just like Michael Jordan’s iconic Chicago Bulls red, this Spider-Man card is a sharp PMG color match. While many of these stunners have taken a hit over the last few years, we’d challenge you to find a more aesthetically pleasing trading card. This POP 6 gem sold for an all-time high of $78,000 in early 2022.

5. Spider-Man 2017 Fleer Ultra PMG Blue /49 PSA 9 – $82,800
https://goldin.co/item/2017-fleer-ultra-marvel-metal-pmg-blue-mm1-spider-man-16-49-psa-mint-9ycd2b
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (2/24/2022)

By the looks of it, several PMG blues closed on the same Goldin auction. Few were as crisp as this 2017 Spider-Man PSA 9, which shows Spidey in his iconic red and royal blue look. With new projects of the webslinger planned down the road, it will be interesting to see how these cards resell over time.

4. Captain America 2013 Fleer Retro PMG Blue /50 PSA 8 – $88,806
https://goldin.co/item/2013-marvel-fleer-retro-pmg-blue-9-captain-america-09-50-psa-nm-mt-892s0n
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (2/24/2022)

You will never be able to knock these cards for their visual beauty. The Fleer Retro set utilized a blue parallel, which is not found in the earlier basketball cards they are modeled after. When you have an All-American hero like Cap, the blue background just makes this card even more aesthetically pleasing.

3. Spider-Man 2017 Fleer Ultra PMG Green /10 BGS 9 – $99,600
https://goldin.co/item/2017-fleer-ultra-marvel-metal-precious-metal-gems-pmg-green-mm1-spider8nex4
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (12/28/2022)

If anything, this list shows just how collectible Stan Lee’s Spider-Man really is. From movie franchises to video games, people cannot get enough of Peter Parker. Case in point, this PMG green sold for just shy of six figures at the end of 2022.

2. Spider-Man 2013 Fleer Retro Blue PMG /50 BGS 9 – $132,000
https://goldin.co/item/2013-fleer-retro-marvel-precious-metal-metal-gems-blue-5-spider-man-21xh0vy
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (1/8/2022)

At the #2 spot, we have another Spidey PMG. This one, just like the 2017 Fleer Ultra shown earlier, contrasts the iconic red get-up with a sharp blue parallel. With a final price dating back to January 2022, this sale arguably catapulted the Marvel market into its sharp rise.

1. Spider-Man 2013 Fleer Retro Green PMG /10 BGS 9 – $168,000
https://goldin.co/item/2013-fleer-retro-marvel-metal-precious-metal-gems-green-5-spider-man-0o2exj
Goldin

Sold on: Goldin Auctions (5/21/2022)

Peter Parker’s first PMG is one of the highest-selling non-sport cards ever, and it is limited to just 10 copies. The sensitive foil on these cards makes them subject to relatively low grades, so a BGS 9 is more than impressive. While this piece may not be worth $168,000 today, it is still the crown jewel of any Marvel/DC trading card collection.

Marvel Today?

As it stands now, you can pick up many of these formerly skyrocketed PMG cards for a fraction of the price. This makes it unfortunate for investors who bought in at the peak, but it becomes a viable option for die-hard collectors. Regardless, there’s no shortage of impressive cards under the Marvel umbrella, and you should see if any of them are for you.

Do you collect Marvel cards? Let us know @CardTalkPod on Instagram and Twitter.

Categories
Collectibles

The 20 Most Expensive Magic The Gathering Cards of All-Time

Are you wondering what the most expensive Magic The Gathering cards of all-time are? Let’s get in to it!

Magic The Gathering, created by mathematician Richard Garfield and published by Wizards of the Coast, has redefined the landscape of collectible card games since its inception in 1993. With its rich lore and strategic gameplay, MTG has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide. But it’s not just the gameplay that draws us in; it’s the allure of rare and valuable cards that hold immense worth in the MTG community.

Related: The 31 Most Expensive Pokemon Cards of All-Time

There are dozens of beloved TCGs worldwide; however, Magic The Gathering stands alone in many regards.

For starters, Magic institutes a Reserved List, which is an officially sanctioned list of cards that can never be reprinted. This is a unique concept that we rarely see in the sports card hobby or in other popular trading card games.

Consequently, what sets these cards apart is their rarity. Some cards are so scarce that their prices skyrocket, turning them into coveted artifacts for collectors and players seeking an edge in their decks.

Today, we delve into the realm of the most valuable MTG cards ever printed. After we are done, you may want to go check the attic and see if you have any of these iconic gems in a shoebox or a binder.

For the sake of this list, we are only allowing each individual card to appear once. Without further ado, let’s dive right in and highlight the 15 most expensive Magic The Gathering cards of all time!

(All sales taken from and verified by CardLadder)

20. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Copy Artifact BGS 9.5 – $29,400
CardLadder

• Sold Date: Feb 17, 2023

• Where sold: PWCC Premier Auction

To kick the list off, we have a very useful piece from the original Alpha set. Copy Artifact was drawn by artist Amy Weber, and you can read more about its significance in competitive play here. This copy sold for nearly three stacks of high society in February of 2023.

19. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Dual Land Taiga BGS 9.5 – $30,000
PWCC

• Sold Date: May 17, 2023

• Where sold: PWCC

This Taiga iteration counts as both forest and mountains. This gives it immense value in a deck, and its heavy usage makes a BGS 9.5-graded copy even more improbable. This one sold as high as $30,000 from a PWCC Vault.

18. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Mox Pearl PSA 10 – $34,800
PWCC

• Where sold: PWCC

Here we have our first Power Nine copy and the first Mox gem, the pearl. The pearl is used to add white mana, and this PSA 10 copy is one of six in existence. Its all time high sale came during a PWCC Premier auction in March of 2023.

17. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Dual Land Underground Sea BGS 9.5 – $36,100
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/items/1738406
PWCC

• Where sold: PWCC

Next, we have a very important piece used in many tournament decks. The Underground Sea/Land dual belongs to the blue and black color combination, allowing players to tap it for either blue or black mana. This gives it unparalleled value and usage for gameplay purposes, but it is also a great collector’s piece in a higher grade like this BGS 9.5.

T-15. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Mox Emerald PSA 10 – $37,200
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7312
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

The Mox Emerald marks the penultimate member of the Power Nine and penultimate Mox Cycle piece on this list. This green mana-producing card is one of five known PSA 10s, and it last sold for $37,200 during a PWCC auction.

T-15. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Ancestral Recall PSA 10 – $37,200
https://app.cardladder.com/sales-history?saleId=pwcc-premier-7309
CardLadder

• Date Sold: March 17, 2023

• Where Sold: PWCC Premier Auction

According to the MTG Wiki, Ancestral Recall “allows the player to use one card to draw three more at an extremely low mana cost.It originated as part of the “booncycle, one of each color, which gave three of something (e.g. mana, life, damage) for the cost of one mana.” Interestingly enough, this is the only card of the original Power Nine to never be reprinted in any fashion, making it one of the rarest TCG cards you’ll ever come across.

14. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Birds of Paradise BGS 9.5 – $37,877
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/items/1902277
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

Birds of Paradise is another MTG card that has become revered based on gameplay usage and striking visual appeal. Mark Poole illustrated the vibrant birds shown above, and this card is pivotal in many deck strategies. Additionally, it is a grail for many MTG enthusiasts, earning a $37,877 price tag during a 2019 auction.

13. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Mox Ruby PSA 10 – $39,600
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7314
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

Here we have another piece of the Mox cycle, the Ruby. This is the only gem on the list that notched a PSA 10 grade, selling in March 2023 for nearly $40,000. Mox Ruby also belongs to the Power Nine, so it will always be one of the more heralded artifact cards in MTG.

12. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Nightmare BGS 9.5 – $42,877
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/items/2891288
PWCC

Where Sold: PWCC

This is a dark and haunting card, so it remains very popular for those who revel in the darker aesthetic of MTG. Nightmare is a powerful addition to any deck, but it’s unlikely that you’ll find it in as flawless condition as this one. The BGS 9.5 copy shown above recently closed at just shy of $43,000, so you may want to check your childhood binders and try to find this one.

T-10. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Chaos Orb PSA 10 – $44,400
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7316
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

With artwork reminiscent of Goosebumps’ The Blob That Ate Everyone, Chaos Orb is threatening both visually and in battle. By flipping the Chaos Orb into the air and letting it fall onto the playing surface, players can destroy any non-token permanent it touches. The affected cards are removed from the game, providing a powerful and unpredictable tool for strategic maneuvering. This makes it banned in most competitive formats, yet it is still a very valuable and sought-after piece in the MTG lore.

T-10. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Shivan Dragon BGS 9.5 – $44,400
https://app.cardladder.com/sales-history?saleId=pwcc-premier-6654
CardLadder

• Date Sold: Nov 18, 2022

• Where Sold: PWCC

When it comes to TCGs, this may not be the first dragon creature that comes to mind. Pokémon’s Charizard and Yu-Gi-Oh!’s Blue Eyes White Dragon are both highly collectible in their respective franchises, but this Shivan Dragon BGS 9.5 Gem Mint is a stunner. It has sold for as high as $44,400 during a November 2022 PWCC auction.

9. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Mox Sapphire PSA 9 – $46,800
https://app.cardladder.com/sales-history?saleId=pwcc-premier-7323
CardLadder

• Date Sold: April 21, 2023

• Where Sold: PWCC

At #9, we have another Power Nine member and a wildly rare component of the original Alpha set. Mox Sapphire performs similarly to the Mox Jet, and both subsequently became highly contentious in competition. Many collectors try to assemble all three of the gems together, but that comes at the wallet’s expense.

8. 1993 Magic the Gathering Beta Volcanic Island BGS 9.5 – $50,100
Probstein123

• Date Sold: Sep 7, 2022

• Where Sold: eBay

One of the few entries from the Beta printing, Volcanic Island is a highly sought-after piece from the “dual lands”. While the majority of our list is a part of the original Alpha set, we will be on the lookout for more record-breaking sales from MTG’s second printing. Case in point, this BGS 9.5 copy sold in 2022 for just over $50,000.

T-6. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Vesuvan Doppelganger BGS 9.5 – $63,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7346
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

Illustrated by Quinton Hoover, the Vesuvan Doppelganger card is another rare piece from the 1993 Alpha set. On a card like this (or any TCG for that matter), you have to examine centering, surface, edges, and corners when grading. The fact that this rare shapeshifter obtained a 9.5 grade 30 years after printing is truly astounding, so it’s no wonder why it reached a sale price of over $60,000.

T-6. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Time Walk PSA 10 – $63,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7315
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

Another Power Nine member, Time Walk grants the player an additional turn during a match. And just like pretty much all of the Power Nine, this high-octane MTG card is banned in most formats. Time Walk features both remarkable artwork and stunning coloration, yet this is one of only ten PSA 10s ever cataloged. 

5. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Mox Jet BGS 9.5 – $65,100
https://app.cardladder.com/sales-history?saleId=pwcc-ebay-1701529
CardLadder

• Date Sold: July 26, 2018

• Where Sold: PWCC

The MTG Mox gems are instrumental cards in a player’s deck, and it just so happens that three of the original Mox cards belong to the Power Nine. Consequently, they provide immense power in a game and real monetary value to collectors. This Mox Jet is overwhelmingly pivotal in a match because it adds more mana for a player and provides a loophole for the “one land per turn” rule. This card is valuable in a Gem Mint condition like this one, yet it is banned in most competition formats.

4. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Timetwister PSA 10 – $84,000
https://app.cardladder.com/sales-history?saleId=pwcc-premier-7310
CardLadder

• Date Sold: April 21, 2023

• Where Sold: PWCC

The impeccable artwork on this Timetwister Alpha card is second to none. Illustrator Mark Tedin weaved an intricate picture that visually highlights the immense power that the Timetwister possesses. Timetwister belongs to the original limited edition “Power Nine,” and many of the others appear on this list as well. This gem sits as one of three PSA 10s in existence, with one recently selling for $84,000. 

3. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Alpha Lord of the Pit BGS 10 – $105,000
https://www.pwccmarketplace.com/premier-auction/7087
PWCC

• Where Sold: PWCC

It is estimated that just over 1,000 of these copies exist, making it one of the rarest MTG cards in existence. Furthermore, it achieved a BGS 10 Pristine grade, which is one of the most exclusive grades in all of trading cards. The artwork on this card is some of Mark Tedin’s best, and the black bordering gives this one even more visual appeal. It last sold for $105,000 during a January 2023 PWCC auction.

2. 1993 Magic: The Gathering Black Lotus Limited Edition Artist Proof Autograph CGC 8.5 – $616,000
https://comics.ha.com/itm/memorabilia/magic-the-gathering-artist-proof-black-lotus-limited-edition-beta-cgc-trading-card-game-nm-mint-85-wizards-of-the-coast-/a/7323-36014.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515
Heritage Auction

• Date Sold: March 24, 2023

• Where Sold: Heritage Auction

Moving on to #2, we have one of the most iconic TCG cards in existence. There are several iterations of the Black Lotus, but this white back, artist proof arguably takes the cake as the rarest. This particular Black Lotus doesn’t even stem from the original Alpha set, but rather a later LImited Edition Beta set. However, it contains a crisp autograph of the illustrator’s autograph at the bottom of the copy. This MTG holy grail recently closed at $616,000 during a Heritage auction in March.

1. 2023 Magic: The Gathering / Lord of the Rings “The One Ring” 1/1 PSA 9 – $2,000,000
CardLadder

• Date Sold: August 2, 2023

• Where Sold: Private Sale to Post Malone

Both MTG collectors and Tolkien fans united in 2023 to chase “The One Ring,” a creative collaboration that paid homage to the iconic Lord of the Rings trilogy. Many variations of the card emerged in both retail and booster sets, and a bounty was quickly placed on the 1/1 parallel. The card ended up in the collection of rapper Post Malone, who paid $2,000,000 for this one-of-a-kind piece in August.

Do you have any Magic: The Gathering cards? Let us know @CardTalkPod on Instagram and Twitter!

Categories
Collectibles

The Top Sports Card Grading Companies

What are the top sports card grading companies?

Card collecting is in perhaps its most eventful and promising era to date. With Fanatics acquiring the rights to all three major American sports – football, basketball and baseball – our favorite hobby could be heading to new heights. Keeping that in mind, it’s important to analyze the companies and industry leaders that keep cards thriving. 

RELATED: The Most Valuable Sports Cards Ever Sold

In the last 20 years, the hobby has become increasingly more centered towards grading and its benefits. The premise is simple: you send your card(s) to a nationally recognized company, they examine the card for its authenticity and condition, they secure it into a plastic holder, and they assign it a grade (typically 1-10). When a higher grade is issued on a card, its value can grow exponentially, as illustrated on our list of most expensive cards ever sold.

There is no shortage of companies that offer this service. However, we will be breaking down the best of the best when it comes to grading. We will showcase the pros of each company, whether it be from a price, aesthetics, or resell value standpoint.

Without further ado, let’s begin: here are the top trading card grading companies you should know about!

1. Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA)
PSA

In the current state of the hobby, PSA is undoubtedly the king of grading. They slabbed over 13 million cards in 2023, which is more than any other company. Furthermore, when the three Gem Mint grades (PSA 10, BGS 9.5, and SGC 9.5) of a given card are compared, the PSA 10 is consistently traded at a higher value.

Founded in 1991, Professional Sports Authority was one of the earliest groups to grade sports cards. Although it faced some strenuous years in the mid 1990s, the company has since evolved into a household name. 

Now owned by Collectors Universe Incorporated, PSA offers services at the $18, $30, $50, $100, $150, $300 and $600 levels. These newly refreshed levels are promising to see in the hobby, especially when grading had been halted for almost 18 months. The group also offers special discounts to its Collectors Club members. This includes value submissions for both sports cards and TCGs.

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2. Beckett Grading Service (BGS)
BGS

Beckett Grading Services (BGS) is another prominent name in card grading. Unlike PSA, Beckett uses intervals of .5 to pinpoint a card’s condition. Furthermore, BGS is the first grading company to integrate subgrades – centering, edges, corners, and surface – onto their label. This offers an additional level of transparency and objectivity for the buyer.

Beckett is also among the first to offer an autograph grade on the card as well. This provides an aesthetically pleasing look for signed cards like Bowman 1st Autos and National Treasures RPAs.

Lastly, Beckett is widely known for their BGS 10 “Black Label,” which occurs when all four subgrades receive a perfect 10 grade. This will make a card’s value jump astronomically, as they are seldom seen out in the wild.

While Beckett may not have the ubiquity of PSA right now, they are still a viable and reliable option in the grading world. 

<code><p class = "twitter-tweet">https://twitter.com/PSAcard/status/1597739588554207233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw</p></code>

3. Sportscard Guaranty Corporation (SGC)
SGC

To round off the Big 3, we have SGC, a group that has shown significant growth in the last 3 years. In addition to implementing affordable pricing during the pandemic, SGC’s label can be seen on the two most valuable cards ever sold. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle SGC 9.5 and the 1909 Sweet Caporal T206 Honus Wagner SGC 3 are worth $12 million and $7 million respectively. 

Part of SGC’s success can be attributed to the rebranding of their slabs. Dubbed the “Black Tuxedo,” these new holders are much more sleek and modern than their previous ones. In turn, we have seen an influx of vintage and modern cards being graded by SGC.

SGC has also seen growth through their rapid turnaround times. The group offered a 7-day turnaround after the release of 2023 Topps Series 1. This enabled collectors to slab up their cards and have them on the market at a remarkable and affordable pace.

<code><p class = "twitter-tweet">https://twitter.com/PSAcard/status/1597739588554207233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw</p></code>

Other Names to Keep an Eye On

While PSA, BGS, and SGC are definitely the big players in grading, there are some other names worth mentioning. They are as follows:

4. Arena Club
Arena Club

A group partially founded by Derek Jeter will always be one to have on your radar. The Captain partnered with Brian Lee to create an all-in-one grading service and showroom. Their goal to digitize an all-encompassing card show, where collectors can buy, sell, trade, and grade their pieces. They offer a $15 grading service with the option to vault your card in the Arena Club showroom. As the hobby grows more and more mobile, Arena Club provides a multifaceted value.

5. TAG
TAG Grading

TAG, which stands for Technical Authentication & Grading, brand itself as the future of trading card grading. The group offers a plethora of innovative services, such as submission kits and digital reports. The slab’s QR code actually shows the potential defects of a card, which is a very transparent and technologically-forward move. By using AI to analyze a card, TAG is able to take human error out of the grading equation. We will be following to see how the market responds to these new slabs.

6. CSG
CSG

While relatively new to sports card grading, CSG is part of a conglomerate that has been pivotal in alternative asset certification. Certified Collectibles Group currently grades video games, coins, paper money, comics, stamps, and of course, cards. 

The current CSG slab is an improved model of the first holder, and it utilizes rigid plastic to secure the card inside. They also integrate AI technology into their grading system, which takes human error and subjectivity out of the equation. While they may not have the prowess of the Big 3 quite yet, it will be interesting to see if they catch up in the future.

7. HGA
HGA

Hybrid Grading Approach (HGA) is another relative newcomer onto the grading scene, but they’ve introduced some unique concepts already. The group offers a level of personalization with each slab, as many of the labels are printed on a colorful and intricate background. They also tested a horizontal slab to accompany horizontal patch autographs. We will be on the lookout for more creativity from them in the coming years.

8. ISA
ISA

Next is ISA, a group that specializes in quick and efficient turnaround times. They also work to offer affordable rates for grading, which is a practical option for those looking to get a card slabbed without hurting their wallet.

9. GMA
GMA

Finally, we have GMA, another inexpensive alternative in the grading market. They offer fast turnaround times and substantial bulk rates, so it’s a useful option if you want to get your cards slabbed for cheap.

Which grading company is your go-to? Let us know @CardTalkPod on Instagram and Twitter!

Categories
Collectibles

35 Gifts For LEGO Lovers: The Best Sets and Accessories To Buy Right Now!

The holidays are here, and we all know we’ll be shopping for gifts for LEGO lovers in the coming weeks! Whether it’s Indiana Jones, Guardians of the Galaxy, Batman, or a fun Dr. Strange set, the one thing you can be sure of is that LEGO has a set for everyone!

RELATED: LEGO Black Panther: Every Set Ranked!

With hundreds of sets and accessories to choose from, I’ve narrowed down some of my holiday picks for the season to make your shopping as easy as it’s ever been. Below, you will find my top gifts for LEGO lovers, for all levels of builders!

Gifts for Advanced Builders
1. Disney Castle
LEGO

First up on our list of gifts for LEGO lovers is the Disney Castle. This is a revamp of the previous castle, but a major improvement in nearly every way. The Minifigure selection is unmatched, and the colors on this will pop as the centerpiece of whatever room you place it in!

buy now at lego, $399.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fdisney-castle-43222%3Fef_id%3DCj0KCQiAj_CrBhD-ARIsAIiMxT_dKK1Z1Fjo4w39rzzlts0N9JPXkzvA9WadiHBhBX0C4SMWNmORu9caApJREALw_wcB%253AG%253As%26s_kwcid%3DAL%2521790%25213%2521%2521%2521%2521x%2521%2521%252119930801640%2521%26cmp%3DKAC-INI-GOOGUS-GO-US-EN-RE-SP-BUY-CREATE-PLA-SHOP-BP-SP-RN-PMAX_HIGH_PRIORITY%26gad_source%3D1%26gbraid%3D0AAAAADESMXLlf-D5hkGBy-fn6fphEw2O5
2. Indiana Jones Temple of the Golden Idol
LEGO

At $150, I think this is in the running for the best LEGO set of the year. The play value, display options, and complexity of the build are all among some of the best I’ve ever built, and trust me, you’re gonna love this one! 

buy now at lego, $149.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Ftemple-of-the-golden-idol-77015
3. Lord of the Rings: Rivendell
LEGO

This was one of my favorite sets of the entire year to build; from the tranquil gazebo to Bilbo’s private writing room, this set is jam packed with Middle Earth awesomeness that is a must have for any Lord of the Rings fanatics on your holiday list.  

buy now at lego, $499.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fthe-lord-of-the-rings-rivendell-10316
4. Gringotts Wizarding Bank – Collectors’ Edition
LEGO

The tallest, and perhaps most impressive, LEGO Harry Potter set to date! Gringotts Bank includes a massive brick-built display stand with a mine cart track, a giant Ukrainian Ironbelly Dragon, and a detailed interior to make for awesome play or display capabilities. 

buy now at lego, $429.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fgringotts-wizarding-bank–collectors-edition-76417
5. Eiffel Tower
LEGO

Not a build for the faint of heart, this massive Lego architecture beauty has 10,001 pieces making it the tallest Lego set ever and one of the most intensive piece counts in history. It’s a beautiful model, and if you’ve got space for it, a worthy addition to any collection.

buy now at lego, $629.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Feiffel-tower-10307
6. Star Wars Venator – Class Republic Attack Cruiser
LEGO

This Clone Wars-era behemoth was one of my favorite builds of 2023. It was daunting, yes, but never too challenging. It was the perfect balance of complex yet soothing, not to mention how wonderful the final model displays. It requires more shelf space than usual since the majority of the ship will hang over 

buy now at lego, $649.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Ftdb-lsw-2023-24-75367
7. Concorde
LEGO

New for 2023, the LEGO Concorde is a massive jet build that comes on a balanced stand so this icon of the skies can soar over your office or bedroom. The build experience is so innovative from start to finish, and it even has a workable “droop snoot” cockpit, just like the real Concorde did back in the day!

buy now at lego, $199.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fconcorde-10318
8. Natural History Museum
LEGO

This 4,014 piece modular building was just released by LEGO in time for the holidays, and it’s a real showstopper! This is the first-ever modular museum, complete with tons of references and easter eggs to past LEGO themes, storylines, and characters that any longtime LEGO fan will recognize and enjoy. 

buy now at lego, $299.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fnatural-history-museum-10326
9. Avengers Tower
LEGO

The biggest, tallest, and most epic LEGO Marvel set of all-time is finally here, and fans of all ages are loving it! Get ready, though, because there are over 200 window pieces that will need to be assembled individually, but hopefully the assortment of 30+ Avengers minifigures will help reel you back in. This set is a behemoth, and a must-have for superhero fans!

buy now at lego, $499.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Favengers-tower-76269
10. The Titanic
LEGO

One of the largest LEGO sets ever in both piece count and length, this over 9,000 piece ship is going to take some serious building power to accomplish. It’s broken up into sections so that multiple builders can collaborate on it at once, and the final model is a true masterpiece once assembled and displayed. 

buy now at lego, $679.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-titanic-10294
Gifts for Intermediate Builders:
11. Spider-Man Final Battle
LEGO

No worries… gifts for LEGO lovers guide includes suggestions for intermediate builders! First up, this was the Spider-Man: No Way Home set we were all waiting for, and the end result is glorious! It depicts the final battle from the latest Spider-Man adventure and comes with Tom Holland, Andrew Garfield, and Tobey Maguire Spider-Man minifigs – what’s not to love?

buy now at lego, $109.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fspider-man-final-battle-76261
12. Flower Bouquet
LEGO

Truly any of the Botanical Collection sets from LEGO will make that flower enthusiast happy, but this one is the best of all worlds offering a wide array of flower shapes and colors that are simple, fun builds for any skill set. 

buy now at lego, $59.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fflower-bouquet-10280
13. Chevrolet Corvette 1961
LEGO

A true American classic, nothing revs up quite like little red corvette! Take this one across the finish line and enjoy a build of an icon in automotive history, and one of the better LEGO car models of recent years. 

buy now at lego, $149.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fchevrolet-corvette-1961-10321
14. Alpine Lodge
LEGO

The latest addition to LEGO’s annual Winter Village Collection, the Alpine Lodge is a homey set that embodies the cozy feelings of wintertime. It’s a great value for the price, and the only downside is most people who get one Winter Village set end up wanting them all…

buy now at lego, $99.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Falpine-lodge-10325
15. The Insect Collection
LEGO

This is one of the latest LEGO Ideas products to launch, which means it was designed by a LEGO fan and garnered over 10,000 supporters online. At this point, LEGO explores making the idea into a real LEGO set, and for this lucky fan, his project was selected and is now available! As if that’s not cool enough, the bug models look great and this will be a fun, innovative build experience. 

buy now at lego, $79.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fthe-insect-collection-21342
16. Viking Village
LEGO

Another LEGO Ideas creation, this 2,103 piece diorama is the perfect blend of playability for kids and display value for adults. Sadly, we don’t get a ton of Castle or Viking sets in the modern landscape of LEGO, but this beautiful set sort of makes up for it with a g rest build, fun minifigures, and an impressive use of pieces. 

buy now at lego, $129.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fviking-village-21343
17. Tranquil Garden
LEGO

To me, this is the perfect set to get a more mature builder who might just be getting back into the hobby, or perhaps is entering the LEGO world for the first time. The final model can be displayed perfectly anywhere, but more importantly, the build uses a lot of unique techniques that will help pave the way for future builds using the same skills and techniques. Win-win!

buy now at lego, $109.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Ftranquil-garden-10315
18. Hokusai – The Great Wave
LEGO

This one is a bit of a tricky build, but a good challenge for builders of any level. This one may not be as exciting for kids, but for builders of all other age groups this provides a great experience and a beautiful piece of LEGO artwork once completed. 

buy now at lego, $99.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fhokusai-the-great-wave-31208
19. The Office
LEGO

Dunder Mifflin has been LEGO-ized, and it’s literally perfect. This includes almost the entire staff of the Scranton branch and includes dozens of easter eggs from the show that die hard fans will love to build (and show their friends!) This was also a LEGO Ideas project, and perhaps my favorite of the ones released in the 2020s so far.

buy now at lego, $119.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fthe-office-21336
20. Back to the Future Delorean
LEGO

When this baby hits 88-miles per hour, you’re gonna see some serious BRICK! This build is an absolute blast, and it includes spare parts (and instructions!) to transform it to match the Delorean’s look from all three Back to the Future movies. No matter which version is your favorite, this innovative set offers it all!

buy now at lego, $199.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fback-to-the-future-time-machine-10300
Gifts for Young Builders
21. Birdhouse
LEGO

You know we couldn’t leave our young builders off of our “Gifts for LEGO Lovers” guide! This comes from the always-innovative Creator 3-in-1 line, and truthfully it was one of my favorite “simple” builds of the year. The little birds are adorable, and I love how well it fits into my LEGO display shelves, too!

buy now at lego, $29.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fbirdhouse-31143
22. Wall-e and Eve
LEGO

This is a fun, small build that includes 155 pieces and is split up into two separate builds, making it perfect for couples, siblings, friends, or family to each have a building experience of their own.

buy now at lego, $14.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Feve-wall-e-40619
23. Hogwarts Castle and Grounds
LEGO

There’s a GIANT Hogwarts Castle available in LEGO form, but for those of us that are struggling with LEGO space as it is, this offers the perfect solution; 2,660 pieces of mini Hogwarts awesomeness, and a great display piece to boot!

buy now at lego, $169.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fhogwarts-castle-and-grounds-76419
24. Botanical Garden
LEGO

From the LEGO Friends line of sets, this botanical garden is a beautiful model that will fit on your LEGO shelf perfectly, or can be played with and added right into a LEGO city with ease. It’s not every day that these sets aimed at kids work so well for adults, too, but when it does, it deserves a spot on the list!

buy now at lego, $79.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fbotanical-garden-41757
25. The Fox Lodge
LEGO

For the Minecraft fans, this is a great inexpensive set that offers a lot of unique colors and brick sizes to add to your collection. Is it the most innovative set ever? Certainly not, but not ever set needs to be big or expensive to be awesome! 

buy now at lego, $19.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fthe-fox-lodge-21178
26. LEGO Marvel Minifigures Series 2 (6-pack)
LEGO

LEGO offers a line called Collectible Minifigures, where 12 brand new minifigures are introduced into blind packaging so you don’t know who you’re going to get. The current series is based on the Marvel Studios Disney+ shows, but the CMF series are always top notch and great choices for gifts (or stocking stuffers!)

buy now at lego, $4.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-minifigures-marvel-series-2-71039
27. Yoda’s Jedi Starfighter
LEGO

Everyone loves Yoda. Everyone loves R2-D2. Everyone loves a sub $40 LEGO Star Wars set that can be swooshed around. Need I say more?

buy now at lego, $34.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fyoda-s-jedi-starfighter-75360%3Fef_id%3DCj0KCQiAj_CrBhD-ARIsAIiMxT-KGP3kEpbhkLiTHQwrRW2VNWq-mdTRoaMzChjvsB0-drOOYQjrjpEaAu3AEALw_wcB%3AG%3As%26s_kwcid%3DAL!790!3!674854183806!!!g!!!20573417025!154225782415%26cmp%3DKAC-INI-GOOGUS-GO-US_GL-EN-RE-PS-BUY-EXPLORE-STAR_WARS_TM-SHOP-BP-MM-ALL-CIDNA00000-NOVELTIES_STAR_WARS_TM%26gad_source%3D1%26gbraid%3D0AAAAADESMXKgfH301gO8XDF4xCOHUuJDN
28. Walt Disney Tribute Camera
LEGO

This is a bit more complex than the other sets in this section, but it’s a great set to honor the legacy of Walt Disney and to obtain some great, exclusive minifigures along the way!

buy now at lego, $99.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fwalt-disney-tribute-camera-43230
29. Land Rover Classic Defender
LEGO

This set may not look like much at only 150 pieces, but believe me, this is one of the most fun, compact builds you can have in the $15 range. I was blown away with this, and cannot recommend it enough as a first set (or 1,000th set in my case.)

buy now at lego, $14.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fland-rover-classic-defender-40650
30. Beach Camper Van
LEGO

This set is great because you get two minifigs, a sweet camper van, some cabanas and chairs to chill out with, and an open road full of adventure. Not a fan of the camper van? No worries! This is a Creator 3-in-1 set that can be rebuilt into an ice cream stand with a convertible car, or even an oceanfront beach house!

buy now at lego, $49.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Fbeach-camper-van-31138
Accessories for All Builders
31. LEGO Backpacks
LEGO

LEGO has gotten into the accessory game and offers some amazing brick-shaped backpacks that are perfect for taking bricks to friends’ houses, school books, or even office and travel use. There are tons of size and color options to choose from depending on your (or your loved one’s) needs, which makes these even more versatile.

buy now at lego, $14.99 – 80
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dbackpacks%26sort.key%3DPRICE%26sort.direction%3DDESC%26filters.i0.key%3Dcategories.id%26filters.i0.values.i0%3Dfcc2cb35-e4b5-4303-92bb-cb1edc809965
32. LEGO Plushies
LEGO

Where were these when I was a kid?! LEGO offers so many variations, themes, and styles of these minifigure plushes, it’s hard not to give into temptation and want to collect them all. The Star Wars and Ninjago ones are the most popular, but there are so many options you’re sure to find a few that fit your collection perfectly.

buy now at lego, $26.99 – 38.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dplushies%26sort.key%3DRELEVANCE%26sort.direction%3DDESC%26filters.i0.key%3Dcategories.id%26filters.i0.values.i0%3D2e1e03ce-c2b8-421f-81ea-a69f50d934c4
33. Minifigure Display Case
LEGO

This is a must-have for the avid LEGO minifig collector. It’s the perfect way to show off your best minifigs in style, and keep them safe from siblings, vacuums, and even dust!

buy now at lego, $34.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-minifigure-display-case-16-5005375
34. 3-Piece Organizer Cubes
LEGO

When I was a kid, traveling with LEGO was always a hassle. I never wanted to leave home without it, yet, there wasn’t really a way to do so without losing pieces or getting them all jumbled up. LEGO has evolved, and that’s no longer a problem with these awesome, stylish organize cubes! 

buy now at lego, $19.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-storage-3-piece-organizer-cubes-5006260
35. 4-Stud Desk Drawer
LEGO

These handy dest drawers are available in tons of color variations and make for a great, stylish way to display your fandom in an office setting, or even on your nightstand. You could organize your belongings by color if you got multiple drawers, or it could be a great place to keep your emergency stash of LEGO on your desk at work. Endless options! 

buy now at lego, $15.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-4-stud-blue-desk-drawer-5005889
36. Iconic 4-piece Organizer Tote and Playmat
LEGO

The main selling point here is the playmat, where you can dump all your loose LEGO bricks, and when it’s time to go, simply close up the playmat and all your bricks will be scooped up inside this one bag. This is literally genius, and again, it makes me question where a product like this was when I was a kid…

buy now at lego, $49.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fproduct%2Flego-iconic-4-piece-organizer-tote-and-playmat-5005538
37. Keychains
LEGO

The LEGO minifigure is an iconic piece of history, and thanks to LEGO introducing keychains, you can now take your favorite Minifigure(s) on the go with you! They offer selections from Marvel, DC, Star Wars, and just about every other LEGO theme imaginable, so while your options may be overwhelming, at least you’ll be able to find something for anyone on your list, no matter what their favorite theme is!

buy now at lego, $4.79 – 14.99
https://go.skimresources.com?id=27667X1584577&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lego.com%2Fen-us%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dkeychains%26sort.key%3DPRICE%26sort.direction%3DASC%26filters.i0.key%3Dcategories.id%26filters.i0.values.i0%3D0b05a003-1702-40e9-8f65-185dcfc640ed

No matter which set(s) you choose from our “Gifts for LEGO Lovers” guide, I hope you have a great time making memories with those you love most around the hobby that we all love.

Categories
Collectibles

The Biggest Card in VeeFriends History is Pulled Live on Community Stream

While many make the conscious effort to avoid black cats, the VeeFriends community has been searching for a special one for the last twenty months.

RELATED: VeeFriends Cards: The Ultimate Guide

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After being very, very, very, very patient, on November 10, 2023, the search for the first 1/1 spectacular card of the most sought-after character came to a celebratory end live on video stream. 

With a chat flooded with the VeeFriends community including President, Andy Krainak, and Creator, Gary Vaynerchuk, a 1/1 Bubble Gum Spectacular Very, Very, Very, Very Lucky Black card was pulled live during a To the Moon Twitch stream on November 10, 2023.

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“Oh my f****** god, it’s been pulled…I am freaking out,” exclaimed Gary Vaynerchuk in his video tweeted out shortly after the card was revealed by Chels on the stream.

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“This is a hugely coveted card (and the) best card ever to come out of a VeeFriends box,” stated Adam Ripps, Head of Collectibles at VeeFriends, in a recent video posted from the official VeeFriends Cards account.

What is the Very, Very, Very, Very Lucky Black Cat?

The VVVLBC is the logo and widely referred to as the mascot of VeeFriends. Its card has been one of the most sought-after cards in the exclusive VeeFriends x zerocool Series 1 Premium Trading Card set. This is the first time any of the six spectacular 1/1 black cat cards were seen in public. 

“For me, this is the biggest moment in VeeFriends cards. It’s the treasure we’ve all been hunting for two years and to have pulled it on our live show with Gary and the team in the chat was a dream come true,” said Tom “TGer,” co-owner of To The Moon Cards & Collectibles.

What are VeeFriends Series 1 Cards?

In March 2022, VeeFriends collaborated with the Fanatics collectibles brand, zerocool, to launch the VeeFriends x zerocool Series 1 Premium Trading Cards. 800 boxes of 10 cards each were released and sold via blind dutch auction. While 1,000 boxes were made in total, 800 boxes of 10 cards each were released and sold via blind dutch auction, with a closing price of $2,150 per box. The cards in the set featured all 268 original characters in hand drawn form. These sketches mirror the images on the original VeeFriends NFTs launched in 2021 and are the first-ever cards created for every character. As of late, boxes are selling for roughly $6000.

<code><p class = "twitter-tweet">https://twitter.com/ericwhiteback/status/1724174016301121539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw</p></code>
What is this card worth?

The appearance of the card has naturally stirred up valuation conversations on X and the VeeFriends discord. In a tweet, the Collectibles Guru, Eric Whiteback put a likely value of “25k+.” To the Moon Cards founder and VeeFriends card collector, “JayRob,” noted, “without a grade, it’s hard to put a value on it just yet but I can assure you it’s a five figure value.”

<code><p class = "twitter-tweet">https://twitter.com/SaugyWaffles3/status/1721907201735119217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw</p></code>
Who was the Very, Very, Very, Very Lucky Recipient of the Card?

VeeFriends community member, SaugyWaffles went all-in on his first box break and purchased all of the spots of the now, historic break. “When it happened I didn’t have words and it didn’t really hit me until later on in the stream… I had the biggest pull in VeeFriends history,” explained “Saugy.”

What are the plans for the card?

“I honestly don’t know if I am selling right now. I’ve had an offer but my gut tells me that I’m going to wait,” noted Saugy. “I need to hold and cherish it. I want to put it on my mantle and enjoy it for now.”

For more information on the VeeFriends Cards collections and how to start collecting, follow the official VeeFriends Cards account and visit the official site. For more information on community breaks visit the To The Moon Cards Official Site.