Willie Mays 1951 Bowman Card Value Guide
#305
Quick-Stats Panel
The 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card remains a highly sought-after collectible, with recent sales indicating sustained demand: -PSA 8:
Last sold for $213,500 on August 25, 2025. (sportscardinvestor.com) -PSA 6:
Last sold for $31,200 on August 28, 2025. (cardladder.com) -PSA 3:
Last sold for $5,355 on August 25, 2025. (cardladder.com) These figures reflect a stable market for this iconic card, with prices holding steady over the past few months.Price Table
Below is a table summarizing the 30-day average sale prices for the 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card across various grades:| Grade | 30-Day Average Sale Price |
|---|---|
| PSA 10 | — |
| PSA 9 | — |
| PSA 8 | $213,500 |
| PSA 7 | — |
| PSA 6 | $31,200 |
| PSA 5 | — |
| PSA 4 | — |
| PSA 3 | $5,355 |
| PSA 2 | — |
| PSA 1 | — |
| SGC 10 | — |
| SGC 9 | — |
| SGC 8 | — |
| SGC 7 | — |
| SGC 6 | — |
| SGC 5 | — |
| SGC 4 | — |
| SGC 3 | — |
| SGC 2 | — |
| SGC 1 | — |
12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past year, the 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card has exhibited price stability, with notable sales: -August 25, 2025:
PSA 8 sold for $213,500. -May 31, 2025:
PSA 6 sold for $23,790. (cardladder.com) -March 29, 2025:
PSA 7 sold for an undisclosed amount. (sports.ha.com) These transactions suggest a consistent market demand for this card, with prices holding steady over the past year.Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
The 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card is the most valuable in the set. Its significance is underscored by its status as Mays' true rookie card, featuring vivid artwork that appeals to collectors. Centered copies command higher premiums due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal.Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
The PSA population report indicates the following distribution for the 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card: -PSA 8:
116 copies graded higher. (sports.ha.com) This distribution highlights the card's scarcity in higher grades, contributing to its elevated value.Upcoming Competition or Player Bio
Willie Mays, known as "The Say Hey Kid," is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. His illustrious career includes: -1954:
Led the New York Giants to a World Series title. -1954 & 1965:
Awarded the National League MVP. -1979:
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Mays' enduring legacy continues to influence the sport, and his rookie card remains a prized possession among collectors.Buy / Sell / Hold Outlook
Given the card's consistent market performance and Mays' enduring legacy, the 1951 Bowman #305 rookie card is a strong hold for collectors. Its value is expected to remain stable, with potential for appreciation over time due to its historical significance and scarcity in higher grades.-
-
-
1951 Bowman WILLIE MAYS RC Rookie Card #305 SGC Authentic Altered ICONIC HOF’er
$3,400.00 · Buy It Now
-
-
-
FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from reputable sources, reflecting current market trends.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm (parallels) are popular choices.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality; higher-quality cards are more likely to receive higher grades.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect condition with no visible imperfections.
Why do some cards have refractor or parallel versions?
Refractors and parallels are special print variations—often shinier or colored—that are produced in smaller quantities, making them more collectible and valuable.
How often should I check card prices?
Markets shift quickly, especially during player call-ups, hot streaks, or playoff runs. Checking weekly—or even daily for prospects and stars—helps you stay on top of trends.
What’s the difference between raw and graded cards?
Raw cards are ungraded, straight from packs or collections. Graded cards are authenticated and condition-rated by companies like PSA, BGS, or SGC—often commanding higher resale value.
Do rookie cards always hold the most value?
Rookie cards are typically the most sought-after, but rare inserts, autographs, or limited parallels from later years can also surpass rookie values depending on demand.
Methodology & Ethics
Data sources — Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.
Sampling window — We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least three verified transactions exist for that grade.
AI-grading disclaimer — MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy, sell, or submit a card.
Affiliate transparency — When you click a link to an external marketplace we may earn a referral commission at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking or our editorial commentary.
Copyright © 2018–2025 MarketSnap. All rights reserved.