Jerry Rice

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 9/10

Sustained demand for Rice as all-time great, low graded 10 population drives high-end value

Next months. Stable to rising with NFL offseason hype

Long term. Strong appreciation as supply wears and collector interest grows

History

Jerry Rice, born October 13, 1962, is widely considered the NFL's greatest wide receiver, drafted first round by San Francisco 49ers in 1985 from Mississippi Valley State University; set NFL records with 1,549 receptions, 22,895 receiving yards, 197 receiving touchdowns; 13-time Pro Bowler, 3-time Super Bowl champion, Hall of Famer in 2010.

1986 in the United States as part of Topps Football series

• Only recognized rookie card of NFL's greatest WR
• 49ers traded up ahead of Cowboys to draft Rice in 1985
• Rice set single-season TD catch record with 22 in 1987 (12 games)

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

High

First printed in

1986 Topps Football

Demand

Very High

Supply

Medium

• High print run base but gem mint grades scarce (graded 10 pop 63)
• Condition sensitivity due to 1980s card stock
• Most desirable football rookie card

Collector notes

Condition. Check centering, corners for dings, edges for chipping, surface for print defects or scratches; common flaws include off-centering and wax stains from packs

Storage. Store in top-loaders or slabs, away from light/humidity, use card savers for ungraded copies

Authenticity. Verify black borders, sharp registration, no modern printing dots; authenticate via graded/graded population reports (graded 10 pop 63); avoid reprints from later Topps products