Emmitt Smith, the legendary running back of the Dallas Cowboys and Hall of Famer, has left a lasting impact on the football world. His football cards are highly treasured and hold significant value among the numerous collectibles people seek. The Dallas Cowboys are America’s Team and Emmitt Smith is one of their heroes. It’s no surprise that collectors and fans alike are interested in owning a piece of his legacy.
We will discuss some of the most valuable Emmitt Smith football cards. Smith’s cards can sell from anywhere from a few dollars to just under $50,000 and represent significant milestones in his illustrious career. By understanding the factors contributing to their value, such as rarity, condition, and significance, collectors can make informed decisions when seeking out these prized pieces of sports memorabilia.
From his rookie card to specially autographed editions, each Emmitt Smith football card celebrates an aspect of his incredible journey in the NFL. The cards mentioned in this article have stood the test of time and remain sought after by avid collectors. So, let’s delve into the world of these valuable Emmitt Smith football cards and discover what makes them so unique.
Brief Biography of Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith, born on May 15, 1969, in Pensacola, Florida, is a former professional American football player. He played as a running back for the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). Smith is well known for his impressive records and accomplishments, including being the NFL’s all-time leading rusher and a three-time Super Bowl champion.
After an outstanding college football career at the University of Florida, The Dallas Cowboys drafted Smith in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft. He played for the Cowboys from 1990 to 2002 and later joined the Arizona Cardinals in 2003, where he stayed until his retirement in 2004.
Smith’s football cards have become increasingly valuable over the years due to his on-field achievements and the rarity of some of the cards. Notable cards that have gained significant value include the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems, 1990 Score Supplemental RC, and 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems cards.
9 Most Valuable Emmitt Smith Football Cards
These are the top 9 most sought-after and valuable Emmitt Smith football cards in the market. High-grade examples can command impressive prices, making them desirable additions to any collection.
1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems #126 Emmitt Smith
The 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card is one of the most iconic and valuable cards of Emmitt Smith. Limited to just 15 copies, the Green PMG features a unique design with a stunning green and red foil background.
This is the most expensive Emmitt Smith football card. A card graded PSA 8.5 sold for just under $50,000 in September 2021.
1990 Score Supplemental Emmitt Smith
When it comes to Emmitt Smith rookie cards, this is THE rookie card. A PSA 10 can fetch several thousand dollars while an autographed PSA 10 can approach the $10,000 range.
Emmitt Smith’s 1990 Score Supplemental rookie card is another highly coveted card. The card shows a young Emmitt Smith in his rookie season, and its distinctive design makes it instantly recognizable.
1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems #42 Emmitt Smith
This 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card features Emmitt Smith in a unique cosmic-themed design. Limited to just 50 copies, the card’s rarity, and eye-catching visuals make it a prized possession for collectors.
Precious Metal Gems from Skybox are notoriously tricky to keep in good condition. This makes a highly graded card even rarer and sought after. Skybox Precious Metal Gems are some of the most valuable sports trading cards
1990 Action Packed Rookie Update Emmitt Smith
Another popular Emmitt Smith rookie card is the 1990 Action Packed Rookie Update. This card features a dynamic action shot of Smith on the field and is known for its high-quality printing and embossed details. The card’s popularity and limited availability make it a desirable addition to any collection.
The rounded edges are nice touch that make this card unique.
1990 Pro Set #685 Emmitt Smith
The highest graded versions of the Emmitt Smith Pro Set Rookie Card can go for anywhere from $500 – $1500 making this one of the most valuable Emmitt Smith Rookie Cards.
The 1990 Pro Set Emmitt Smith card is a classic from the early days of football cards. Its simple design and crisp photo make it a popular choice for collectors.
1990 Fleer Update #U40 Emmitt Smith
This 1990 Fleer Update features a young Emmitt Smith during his rookie season. The card’s clean design and high-quality printing make it desirable for collectors. High-grade examples can fetch special prices, mainly if professionally graded.
1990 Upper Deck #SP Emmitt Smith Missing Rookies
As one of the earliest Emmitt Smith cards, the 1990 Upper Deck card captures the excitement of his first season. Collectors prize high-grade examples of this card for their sharp corners, vibrant colors, and crisp images.
While this is a numbered card, it comes from a larger print run, so values do not approach prices similar to other cards on this list. You might fetch 50-60 bucks for a card in top condition.
1991 Stadium Club
The 1991 Stadium Club Emmitt Smith card is known for its action-packed photography and high-quality printing. Collectors appreciate the card’s striking images and bold design. This does not qualify as a rookie card, so its value is lower. Maybe $20-$30.
1991 Wild Card #46 Emmitt Smith
Lastly, the 1991 Wild Card features Emmitt Smith running through a sea of bodies. The aptly named Wild Card features all the colors of the rainbow (at least it seems that way. High-grade examples can go for anywhere from $200-$400.
Factors Affecting Card Value
Several factors come into play when determining the value of Emmitt Smith’s football cards. Some of the most crucial aspects include the condition of the card, its rarity, and the demand among collectors. Here we will briefly discuss each factor and how it impacts the value of the cards, with a focus on the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems, 1990 Score Supplemental RC, and the 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems cards.
Condition
The condition of a football card is a crucial component in assessing its value. Cards in pristine or near-mint condition typically command higher prices than those with visible wear and tear. Corners, edges, surface, and centering are some areas that collectors and graders scrutinize when examining a card’s condition. Flawless cards are highly sought after, hence increasing their value.
Rarity
Rarity also plays a significant role in determining the worth of an Emmitt Smith football card. Cards with lower production runs or limited-edition releases are more valuable, as they are harder to find in the market. For example, the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card is highly prized due to its limited production of just 150 copies.
The 1990 Score Supplemental RC is another sought-after card, as it is Smith’s rookie card and holds special significance for collectors. Similarly, the 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card has a limited print run, making it highly valuable to die-hard fans and collectors.
Demand
Demand among collectors is a driving force behind the value of certain football cards. Famous players like Emmitt Smith tend to have a higher market demand for their cards due to their accomplishments and fan following. When demand outpaces supply, the card’s value can increase substantially.
With Emmitt Smith being an NFL legend and Hall of Famer, owning his cards—such as the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems, 1990 Score Supplemental RC, and 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems—is considered a prestigious addition to any collection, thereby driving up their value in the market.
Tips for Collecting and Investing
When diving into the world of Emmitt Smith football cards, making informed decisions is essential to build a valuable collection.
Pay attention to rarity and condition, as these factors significantly affect a card’s value. Cards from early releases, unique sets, and rare variations generally have higher prices.
Some key Emmitt Smith cards to consider adding to your collection or investment portfolio include:
- 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems: Limited to 150 copies, this card features a desirable green background and is highly sought-after by collectors.
- 1990 Score Supplemental RC: One of Smith’s rookie cards, this set is a must-have for any collection. It showcases a memorable photo of Smith and has solid long-term value.
- 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems: With only 50 copies, this card holds exceptional value. Its distinct red background and scarcity make it a prized collectible.
Remember to store and protect your cards to ensure they maintain their condition. Using proper card sleeves, top loaders, or graded card cases will preserve the card’s integrity and value over time.
Finally, keep an eye on the market trends to strategically buy, sell, or trade cards to optimize your investment. Stay updated on Emmitt Smith’s football cards’ performance and consult reputable price guides to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
In summary, some of the most valuable Emmitt Smith football cards are:
- 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems
- 1990 Score Supplemental RC
- 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems
These cards are highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike, thanks to their rarity and unique features. For example, the 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card is limited to just 50 copies, making it a rare and valuable card.
The 1990 Score Supplemental RC is an iconic card representing Smith’s rookie season, and the 1998 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems card showcases the distinctive designs associated with the Metal Universe sets.
When looking to acquire Emmitt Smith football cards, focusing on these critical cards can help ensure you secure some of the most coveted and valuable pieces in the market.