Introduction
What a time to be a sports card collector! With MLB playoffs approaching, the NFL and college football in full swing, and the NBA and NHL seasons just around the corner, the sports calendar is packed. This excitement always translates into the trading card market, where savvy collectors and investors track trends, chase rising stars, and look for long-term value plays.
In this week’s Sports Cards Update by Sports Card Investor and Market Movers, we’re diving into the top five cards making the biggest impact. And here’s a twist: our #1 and #2 spots are dominated by players from the same surprising team. Let’s jump in.
Sports Card Market Pulse: A Strong Year for Collectors
Before breaking down the top five cards of the week, let’s check in on the overall market. According to the SCI 500 Index, which tracks 500 of the most prominent sports cards:
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Over the last 7 days: Flat movement.
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Over the last 30 days: Up 4%.
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Year-to-date (since Jan 1): Up a staggering 26%.
It’s clear that 2024 has been a strong year for sports cards, with many sectors of the market showing healthy growth. With major sports seasons aligning, momentum looks set to continue into the final months of the year.
Top 5 Cards of the Week
#5. Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat
Sports card investors can’t ignore the impact of Pokémon in today’s market. The Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat, a 2023 collaboration between Pokémon and the Van Gogh Museum, has exploded in value.
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PSA 10: Up 63% in the last 30 days, now selling around $2,000 (was $1,200 a month ago).
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One-Year Growth: From $267 to $2,000 (+742%).
Despite a huge population count (over 42,000 PSA 10s), demand is outpacing supply, showing Pokémon’s global dominance.
⚠️ Caution: With such explosive growth, corrections are possible. This card could end up on the “cold” list in the future.
#4. Jaxon Smith-Njigba
The Seattle Seahawks’ young wide receiver is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Through four weeks, he’s already posted big numbers and played a key role in Seattle’s success.
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2023 Donruss Downtown PSA 10: Up 24%, now $620.
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Optic Downtown Raw: Up 85%, climbing to $703.
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Prizm Silver Auto Raw: Up 25%, now $75.
Collectors are taking notice, and JSN’s rookie cards are some of the hottest in the NFL market right now.
#3. Jayden Maiava
USC’s starting quarterback is turning heads in college football and in the card market. With nearly 1,600 passing yards and 11 touchdowns already this season, Maiava’s name is buzzing.
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2024 Bowman’s Best University Auto Refractor (Raw): Doubled in 30 days, now $33.
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2024 Bowman Chrome University Auto (Raw): Up from $20 to $37.
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2024 Bowman Chrome University Auto Refractor #/299 (Raw): Jumped from $25 to $50.
As a potential high NFL draft pick, Maiava’s market could keep climbing.
#2. Cameron Skattebo
Yes, the New York Giants crack the list with not one but two players! Running back Cameron Skattebo is building a name for himself with strong early performances.
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2024 Bowman Chrome University Auto (Raw): Up 117%, now $98.
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2025 Elite Base Rookie #/999 (Raw): Up 110%, from $8 to $30.
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2025 Origins Rookie Patch Auto (Raw): Up 150%, from $60 to $175.
Collectors are betting on his role growing with the Giants’ offense.
#1. Jaxson Dart
The top card of the week belongs to New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. His NFL debut upset win over the Chargers turned heads, both on the field and in the card market.
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2022 Bowman Chrome Auto (Raw): Up from ~$100 to $176.
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2024 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto PSA 10: Up 23%, now $383.
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2024 Select XRC Prism (Raw): Up 26%, now $550.
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2025 Elite Variations: Several parallels are up between 38% and 80%.
Collectors love a breakout QB, and Dart’s market is red hot right now.
FAQs: Sports Card Market Pulse
Q1. What is the Sports Card Market Pulse?
It’s a weekly analysis of trends, highlighting which cards and players are moving up or down in value.
Q2. Why are Pokémon cards included in a sports card list?
Because Pokémon has become one of the hottest segments in the trading card market, rivaling traditional sports cards in value and popularity.
Q3. Are Jaxson Dart’s cards a good investment?
Early signs are promising, but like all rookie QBs, his long-term value depends on sustained success.
Q4. Should I buy Cameron Skattebo cards now?
He’s trending upward, but prices have already jumped significantly. Buying now carries some risk of correction.
Q5. Why are PSA 10 cards so valuable?
PSA 10 signifies a gem mint condition card, making it far more desirable to collectors and investors.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Sports Card Market Pulse shows just how diverse the collecting world has become. From Pokémon’s massive surge to young NFL players like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cameron Skattebo, and Jaxson Dart, opportunities are everywhere for collectors and investors.
As we move deeper into the football season, and with basketball and hockey seasons on the horizon, the market looks poised for even more action. Whether you’re collecting for passion, investment, or both, staying on top of these weekly movers is essential.
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