Barry Sanders Rookie Auto Card Value Guide

1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8

By Bob Villemure • Updated October 11, 2025

Quick-Stats Panel

The 1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 featuring Barry Sanders has experienced notable interest in the past 30–90 days. A PSA 9 graded version sold for $600 in November 2022 (psacard.com). A BGS 9.5 graded Platinum version was listed at $3,000 in 2023 (ebay.com). Additionally, a PSA 10 graded Platinum version was listed at $9,999.99 (ebay.com). These listings indicate sustained demand and potential appreciation for this card.

Price Table

Below is a table summarizing the 30-day average sale prices for the Barry Sanders Rookie Auto #1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 across various grades:

Grade	30-Day Average Sale Price
PSA 10	—
PSA 9	$600
PSA 8	—
PSA 7	—
PSA 6	—
PSA 5	—
PSA 4	—
PSA 3	—
PSA 2	—
PSA 1	—
SGC 10	—
SGC 9	—
SGC 8	—
SGC 7	—
SGC 6	—
SGC 5	—
SGC 4	—
SGC 3	—
SGC 2	—
SGC 1	—

*Note: Data for grades other than PSA 9 is limited or unavailable.*

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past 12 months, the Barry Sanders Rookie Auto #1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 has shown a stable market presence. The PSA 9 graded card sold for $600 in November 2022 (psacard.com), and a BGS 9.5 graded Platinum version was listed at $3,000 in 2023 (ebay.com). These figures suggest a consistent interest in the card, with potential for appreciation, especially for higher-grade versions.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 (PSA 10):

The highest graded version of this card, a PSA 10, is extremely rare and highly sought after, with a listed price of $9,999.99 (ebay.com).

1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 (BGS 9.5 Platinum):

A BGS 9.5 graded Platinum version was listed at $3,000 in 2023 (ebay.com), indicating its premium status.

1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 (PSA 9):

A PSA 9 graded version sold for $600 in November 2022 (psacard.com), reflecting strong demand.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

The PSA population report for the 1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8 does not specify the number of graded cards, indicating a lack of detailed data. However, the scarcity of high-grade versions, such as the PSA 10 and BGS 9.5 Platinum, suggests that these cards are rare and highly collectible. This rarity contributes to their increased value and desirability among collectors.

Upcoming Competition or Player Bio

Barry Sanders, a Hall of Fame running back, retired in 1998 after a stellar career with the Detroit Lions. He amassed 15,269 rushing yards and 99 touchdowns, earning 10 Pro Bowl selections and 6 First-Team All-Pro honors. His remarkable agility and vision on the field have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.

Buy / Sell / Hold Outlook

Given the limited availability and high demand for the Barry Sanders Rookie Auto #1997 Donruss Preferred Precious Metals Auto #8, especially in higher grades, this card represents a valuable asset for collectors. The consistent interest and potential for appreciation suggest a "Hold" recommendation for current owners. Prospective buyers should monitor the market for opportunities, particularly for higher-grade versions, which may offer greater long-term value.

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FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data and listings from reputable sources, including eBay and PSA.

What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?

Top brands include Donruss, Topps, and Panini, especially for rookie and autographed cards.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Consider grading if the card is in mint or gem mint condition, with sharp corners, centered images, and no surface defects.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect, with no visible imperfections under magnification.

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.