Steve Young

Market outlook

Stable Outlook 8/10

Raw prices declining recently (down 28.9% in 30 days to $7.58), but high-grade examples hold strong value with GEM MT sales over $14K; steady HOF demand offsets abundant base supply.

Next months. Stable with raw affordable under $10, high-grades firm.

Long term. Rising for graded 9/10 due to scarcity and Young's legacy.

History

Steve Young, born October 11, 1961, is a Hall of Fame quarterback who began his pro career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after starring in the USFL with the Los Angeles Express, where he became the first QB to pass for 300+ yards and rush for 100+ in a single game. He later led the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl win and multiple NFL records.

1986 Topps Football set, released in 1986 as his official NFL rookie card depicting him with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

• This is Steve Young's true NFL rookie card from his Buccaneers days.
• Young is a Pro Football Hall of Famer known for his time with the 49ers.
• The 1986 Topps set features other HOFers like Walter Payton and Steve Largent.

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

Very High

First printed in

1986 Topps Football

Demand

High

Supply

High

• Low population of high grades: graded 10 only 8 copies, graded GEM 10 only 3.
• Prone to condition issues like centering, chipping, and print defects.
• Copyright sheet variations C/D but equal print quantities.

Collector notes

Condition. Check for centering issues, print quality defects, corner and edge chipping which are common flaws in the 1986 Topps Football set; superb examples show sharp corners, excellent centering, and clean reverses.

Storage. Store in protective top loaders or slabs, away from light and humidity to prevent edge wear and centering shifts.

Authenticity. Verify copyright line variations (C or D on reverse, printed in equal quantities); check for proper card stock, print quality, and grading service holograms; avoid reprints by confirming set-specific details like Buccaneers uniform.