Top 25 Highest Selling Football Cards from the Junk Wax Era on eBay (June 2023)
Duane Beckett
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These are the highest selling football cards sold on eBay from the Junk Wax era (84-95) from May 16 – June 17, 2023. Ranked from least expensive to most, and covering countless legends of the sport. No error cards, no duplicates, and no autographs. Just great cards that you can still collect today.
25. 1986 McDonald’s Jerry Rice Blue Version RC PSA 8, $500
The 1986 McDonald’s Jerry Rice Blue Version rookie card, graded PSA 8, holds a special place in football card collecting. This card is part of the McDonald’s set, a unique and highly collectible promotion released during the Junk Wax Era. The blue version of Jerry Rice’s rookie card is particularly desirable due to its scarcity and the association with the iconic fast-food chain. With its PSA 8 grade, this card signifies the early days of Rice’s legendary career and remains a valuable piece for collectors who appreciate the combination of sports and unique promotional items. This card sold for $500.
24. 1985 Topps Broncos Team Leaders John Elway PSA 10, $546
The 1985 Topps Broncos Team Leaders card featuring John Elway, graded PSA 10, holds a special place in the hearts of football card collectors. This card is part of the revered Topps set, known for its iconic designs and collectability. As a Team Leaders card, it highlights the key players and statistical achievements of the Denver Broncos during the 1984 season. John Elway, one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, is prominently featured, capturing his dynamic presence on the field. The PSA 10 grade signifies its impeccable condition, adding to its desirability among collectors. With its combination of team significance and the enduring popularity of John Elway, this card is highly valued and serves as a cherished keepsake for football enthusiasts. This card sold for $546.
23. 1994 John Elway Action Packed Gold PSA 10, $650
Another one of the highest selling football cards from the Junk Wax era is the 1994 John Elway Action Packed Gold card, which is graded PSA 10. This card is part of the Action Packed set, which was known for its premium design and high-quality production. The Action Packed series offered collectors a chance to own a piece of football history, and the gold parallel adds an extra layer of exclusivity to the card. With its pristine PSA 10 grade, this John Elway card commands attention from collectors who appreciate the skill and legacy of one of the game’s greatest quarterbacks. This card sold for $650.
22. 1988 Florida Burger King Emmitt Smith RC PSA 10, $710
The 1988 Florida Burger King Emmitt Smith rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a true gem among football collectors. This card is part of the Burger King set, released exclusively in Florida, and features the early career of the legendary running back. The association with a regional fast-food chain adds an intriguing element to the card’s appeal. With its pristine PSA 10 grade, this Emmitt Smith rookie card showcases his talent and sets the foundation for his future success in the NFL. Collectors seeking unique and rare cards from the Junk Wax Era hold this card in high regard. This card sold for $710.
21. 1990 Pro Set Santa Claus Head Coach PSA 10, $712
The 1990 Pro Set Santa Claus Head Coach card, graded PSA 10, is a delightful and highly sought-after collectible from the Junk Wax Era. As part of the Pro Set series, this card introduced a playful and festive element to the football card hobby. The inclusion of Santa Claus as a head coach brings a touch of whimsy to the card and appeals to both football fans and holiday enthusiasts. With its perfect PSA 10 grade, this card represents a unique and cherished addition to any football card collection, reminding collectors of the joyful spirit of the game. This card sold for $712.
20. 1991 Platinum Pro Set Emmitt Smith /650, $750
The 1991 Platinum Pro Set Emmitt Smith card, limited to just 650 copies, is a prized possession for football card enthusiasts. This card is part of the Platinum Pro Set series, which aimed to offer collectors a premium and high-end experience. The limited print run of 650 adds exclusivity and scarcity to the card’s appeal, making it a sought-after gem among collectors. Emmitt Smith’s impressive career and status as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history further contributes to the card’s desirability. Collectors value this card for its rarity and representation of an iconic player from the Junk Wax Era. This card sold for $750.
19. 1986 Topps Bruce Smith RC BGS 9.5, $801
The 1986 Topps Bruce Smith rookie card, graded BGS 9.5, is a highly regarded gem from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has long been synonymous with football card collecting. Bruce Smith, one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history, is featured on this rookie card, capturing his early years in the league. The BGS 9.5 grade confirms the exceptional condition of the card, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate the skill and impact of defensive players. This card holds a special place in the hearts of football card enthusiasts. This card sold for $801.
18. 1984 Topps Howie Long RC PSA 10, $867
The 1984 Topps Howie Long rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a highly prized collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has a rich history and tradition in the world of football cards. Howie Long, a Hall of Fame defensive end, is featured on this rookie card, capturing the early stages of his stellar career. The PSA 10 grade signifies the card’s outstanding condition, making it a top choice for collectors seeking pristine examples of iconic rookie cards. The combination of Howie Long’s legacy and the card’s rarity make it highly valued among enthusiasts. This card sold for $867.
17. 1990 Action Packed Rookie Update Emmitt Smith PSA 10, $945
The 1990 Action Packed Rookie Update Emmitt Smith card, graded PSA 10, is a coveted gem from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Rookie Update set by Action Packed, which aimed to feature standout rookies from the NFL. Emmitt Smith, one of the greatest running backs in history, is showcased on this card, capturing his early career success. The PSA 10 grade signifies the exceptional condition of the card, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors who appreciate the combination of rarity, player significance, and top-grade condition. This card sold for $945.
16. 1995 Taco John’s Kurt Warner RC PSA 9, $999
The 1995 Taco John’s Kurt Warner rookie card, graded PSA 9, holds a special place among football card collectors. This card is part of the Taco John’s set, a unique and limited promotional release during the Junk Wax Era. Kurt Warner, a remarkable underdog story and one of the greatest quarterbacks of his generation, is featured on this rookie card. The PSA 9 grade signifies the excellent condition of the card, making it highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the combination of player talent, scarcity, and overall quality. This card sold for $999.
15. 1989 Score Deion Sanders RC PSA 10, $999
The 1989 Score Deion Sanders rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a highly valued collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Score series, known for its vibrant design and extensive player checklist. Deion Sanders, an electrifying athlete known for his speed and versatility, is featured on this rookie card, capturing his early years in the NFL. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a desirable choice for collectors seeking top-grade examples of iconic rookie cards. Sanders’ impact on the game and the rarity of high-grade versions contribute to its value. This card sold for $999.
14. 1989 Score Troy Aikman RC BGS 10 Pristine, $1,199
The 1989 Score Troy Aikman rookie card is one of the highest selling football cards on eBay as it is graded BGS 10 Pristine. This card is part of the Score series, which gained popularity during the Junk Wax Era. Troy Aikman, a Hall of Fame quarterback and key figure in the Dallas Cowboys’ success, is showcased on this rookie card. The BGS 10 Pristine grade indicates the card’s flawless condition, making it a highly coveted item for collectors seeking top-grade examples. Aikman’s accomplishments on the field and the scarcity of pristine versions make this card a valuable addition to any collection. This card sold for $1,199.
13. 1989 Score Barry Sanders RC PSA 10, $1,299
The 1989 Score Barry Sanders rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a prized possession among football card collectors. This card is part of the Score series, featuring a robust lineup of rookie cards from the Junk Wax Era. Barry Sanders, one of the most electrifying running backs in NFL history, is showcased on this card, capturing his early career brilliance. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s outstanding condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate both the player’s legacy and the rarity of top-grade rookie cards. This card sold for $1,299.
12. 1993 Wild Card Gold 1000 Stripe Jerome Bettis RC PSA 8, $1,300
The 1993 Wild Card Gold 1000 Stripe Jerome Bettis rookie card, graded PSA 8, is a highly coveted card from the Junk Wax Era. As part of the Wild Card set, this card features the powerful running back early in his career. The “1000 Stripe” designation indicates its exclusivity and scarcity, making it even more desirable among collectors. While the PSA 8 grade indicates some minor imperfections, this card still carries immense value due to its association with a popular card set and its representation of Jerome Bettis’ impact on the field. This card sold for $1,300.
11. 1984 Topps John Elway RC BGS 9.5, $1,450
The 1984 Topps John Elway rookie card, graded BGS 9.5, is an iconic piece from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has a rich history in the world of football card collecting. John Elway, a Hall of Fame quarterback and one of the most iconic figures in the game, is featured on this rookie card. The BGS 9.5 grade signifies the exceptional condition of the card, making it highly sought after by collectors who appreciate both Elway’s legendary status and the scarcity of top-grade examples. This card sold for $1,450.
10. 1986 Topps Dan Marino PSA 10, $1,520
The 1986 Topps Dan Marino card, graded PSA 10, is a highly regarded collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has a long-standing tradition in the football card industry. Dan Marino, one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game, is featured on this card, showcasing his unparalleled passing skills. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a desirable choice for collectors seeking top-grade versions. Marino’s impressive career and the scarcity of PSA 10 examples contribute to the card’s value and appeal. This card sold for $1,520.
9. 1988 Topps Bo Jackson RC PSA 10, $1,642
The 1988 Topps Bo Jackson rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a highly coveted piece from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has a strong presence in the football card collecting community. Bo Jackson, a legendary multi-sport athlete, is featured on this rookie card, capturing his remarkable athleticism and impact on the field. The PSA 10 grade indicates the card’s exceptional condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate both Bo Jackson’s legacy and the rarity of top-grade rookie cards. This card sold for $1,642.
8. 1986 McDonald’s Jerry Rice RC Black Version PSA 10, $1,701
The 1986 McDonald’s Jerry Rice rookie card, black version, graded PSA 10, is a highly esteemed collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the McDonald’s set, a promotional release that has gained significant attention among football card enthusiasts. Jerry Rice, widely regarded as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, is featured on this rookie card, showcasing his exceptional skills and game-changing ability. The black version of the card adds a unique element of rarity and distinction. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a prized possession for collectors seeking top-grade examples. This card sold for $1,701.
7. 1985 Topps Box Bottoms Walter Payton PSA 9, $1,795
The 1985 Topps Box Bottoms Walter Payton card, graded PSA 9, is a highly valued collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps Box Bottoms set, which offered a unique way to obtain cards by cutting them out from the bottom of select Topps card boxes. Walter Payton, a legendary running back and one of the game’s all-time greats, is featured on this card, showcasing his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport. The PSA 9 grade confirms the card’s excellent condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate the combination of rarity and player significance. This card sold for $1,795.
6. 1986 Topps Jerry Rice RC PSA 9, $2,500
The 1986 Topps Jerry Rice rookie card, graded PSA 9, is a highly desirable collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, which has a long-standing tradition in football card collecting. Jerry Rice, widely regarded as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, is showcased on this rookie card, capturing his remarkable career. The PSA 9 grade confirms the card’s excellent condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate both Rice’s accomplishments and the scarcity of high-grade examples. This card sold for $2,500.
5. 1985 Topps Dan Marino/Joe Montana PSA 10, $2,575
The 1985 Topps Dan Marino and Joe Montana card, graded PSA 10, is a highly valued collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card features two iconic quarterbacks, Dan Marino and Joe Montana, capturing their dominance on the field. The Topps brand, known for its rich history in football card collecting, adds to the card’s allure. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate the combination of player greatness, historical significance, and rarity in top-grade form. This card sold for $2,575.
4. 1990 Score Emmitt Smith RC PSA 10, $2,695
The 1990 Score Emmitt Smith rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a highly sought-after collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Score set, which gained popularity for its extensive player checklist and vibrant design. Emmitt Smith, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, is showcased on this rookie card, capturing his early career achievements. The PSA 10 grade signifies the card’s outstanding condition, making it a desirable choice for collectors seeking top-grade examples. Smith’s on-field brilliance and the rarity of PSA 10 versions contribute to the card’s value and desirability. This card sold for $2,695.
3. 1985 Topps All Pro Dan Marino PSA 10, $3,045
The 1985 Topps All Pro Dan Marino card, graded PSA 10, is a highly regarded collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps All Pro set, which highlights the league’s best players. Dan Marino, an iconic quarterback known for his precision passing, is featured on this card, showcasing his remarkable skills. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a sought-after item for collectors who appreciate both Marino’s legacy and the rarity of top-grade examples. This card sold for $3,045.
2. 1984 Topps Dan Marino RC PSA 10, $3,563
The 1984 Topps Dan Marino rookie card, graded PSA 10, is a highly prized collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Topps set, known for its longstanding presence in football card collecting. Dan Marino, one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, is featured on this rookie card, capturing his early career promise. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a coveted choice for collectors seeking top-grade examples. Marino’s impact on the game and the scarcity of PSA 10 versions contribute to the card’s value and desirability. This card sold for $3,563.
1. 1994 Miami/Bumble Bee Dwayne Johnson RC PSA 10, $8,300
The 1994 Miami/Bumble Bee Dwayne Johnson rookie card, graded PSA 10, is an exceptional and unique collectible from the Junk Wax Era. This card is part of the Miami/Bumble Bee set, a promotional release that has gained significant attention in the football card-collecting community. Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” began his career as a professional football player before transitioning to become a highly successful actor and entertainer. The PSA 10 grade confirms the card’s pristine condition, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors who appreciate both Johnson’s multifaceted career and the rarity of top-grade examples. This card sold for $8,300.
As we conclude our exploration of the top 25 highest-selling football cards from the Junk Wax Era, we reflect on the significance of these collectibles. These cards represent more than just pieces of cardboard—they encapsulate the achievements and legacies of iconic players, forever etching their names in the annals of football history. From legendary quarterbacks like Dan Marino and Joe Montana to game-changing running backs like Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton, each card tells a story of greatness.
Whether it’s a rare variation, an autographed card, or an error card, these unique characteristics further enhance their desirability among collectors. The prices these cards command on the market attest to the enduring passion for football and the enduring appeal of these valuable pieces.
Also Read: 10 Most Valuable Reggie Jackson Rookie Cards