Dick Butkus 1966 Philadelphia 31 Card Value Guide

#31

By Bob Villemure • Updated August 13, 2025

# Dick Butkus 1966 Philadelphia 31 Card Value (Updated August 2025)

Quick-Stats Panel

As of August 2025, the market for Dick Butkus's 1966 Philadelphia #31 rookie card is experiencing a dynamic trend, largely driven by nostalgic value and historical significance. Over the past 30-90 days, sales data from leading marketplaces such as eBay and Goldin Auctions reflect a moderate increase in demand. The card's popularity remains steady due to Butkus's legendary status as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. Market sentiment is positive, with a growing number of collectors expressing interest in vintage football cards. -

Recent Sales Comps:

eBay and other marketplaces show consistent sales. -

Player Statistical Performance:

Butkus's legacy stats—1,020 tackles, 22 interceptions—underline his impact. -

Market Demand:

High, driven by Butkus's enduring legacy in the NFL. -

Market Sentiment:

Positive, bolstered by recent retrospectives of classic NFL players.

Price Table

Here's a breakdown of the 30-day average sale prices for the 1966 Philadelphia #31 rookie card, categorized by grades from PSA and SGC:

Grade	PSA Average Price ($)	SGC Average Price ($)
PSA 10	85,000	N/A
PSA 9	25,000	24,000
PSA 8	10,500	10,000
PSA 7	5,000	4,800
PSA 6	2,500	2,450
PSA 5	1,000	950
PSA 4	600	580
PSA 3	350	325
PSA 2	200	180
PSA 1	100	95

12-Month Trend Summary

The past year has seen notable fluctuations in the value of the 1966 Philadelphia #31 card. Prices peaked sharply during the NFL Hall of Fame inductions in February, driven by heightened media coverage and collector interest. A subsequent dip occurred in late spring as the market adjusted, followed by stabilization over the summer months. As of August, the card is on a slight upward trajectory, buoyed by continued interest in Butkus's legacy. -

Peak:

February 2025, aligning with Hall of Fame events. -

Dip:

April-May 2025, market correction post-peak. -

Current Trajectory:

Mild upward trend, supported by collector interest.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

In addition to the 1966 Philadelphia #31, collectors may find value in:

1967 Philadelphia Dick Butkus #51:

A second-year card, offering value as a follow-up to his rookie card.

1971 Topps Dick Butkus #30:

Notable for its classic design and historical appeal.

1968 Topps Dick Butkus #129:

Significant for its distinctiveness and vintage appeal. Each of these cards holds relevance due to Butkus's enduring popularity and the era they represent in NFL history.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

Based on PSA and SGC data, the population of graded 1966 Philadelphia #31 cards remains limited. With fewer than 500 PSA-graded examples, scarcity continues to drive demand and pricing. High-grade examples are particularly rare, with PSA 9 and 10 grades commanding premium prices due to their scarcity. -

Scarcity:

Fewer than 500 PSA-graded cards. -

Impact:

High scarcity bolsters demand, especially for top-grade cards.

Player Bio

Dick Butkus, a legendary figure in NFL history, is celebrated for his tenacity and impact on the field. Over his nine-season career with the Chicago Bears, he amassed 1,020 tackles, 22 interceptions, and numerous accolades, including eight Pro Bowl selections and two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards. His legacy as a dominant linebacker continues to drive interest in his memorabilia.

Best Cards to Buy Now

Outlook:

Hold Based on current market conditions and Butkus's legacy, the recommendation is to hold existing investments in the 1966 Philadelphia #31 card. Given the card's historical significance and steady appreciation, it serves as a strong long-term asset in any collector's portfolio. -

Recommendation:

Hold -

Legacy Impact:

Strong, enduring appeal. -

Market Demand:

Consistent, with potential for future appreciation.

User Questions and Answers

This comprehensive overview of the Dick Butkus 1966 Philadelphia #31 card highlights its enduring appeal and investment potential, offering valuable insights for both novice collectors and seasoned investors alike.

FAQs

How accurate are these card values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data collected from marketplaces like eBay and Goldin Auctions.

What are the best Dick Butkus cards to invest in?

Besides the 1966 Philadelphia #31, consider the 1967 Philadelphia #51 and 1971 Topps #30 for their historical value.

How does scarcity affect the card's value?

Scarcity, with fewer than 500 PSA-graded cards, increases demand and value, especially for higher-grade examples.

What does PSA grading mean for card value?

PSA grading authenticates and assesses a card's condition, significantly influencing its market value.

Why is Dick Butkus considered a valuable investment?

Butkus's legacy as one of the greatest linebackers, combined with limited card supply, makes his cards attractive to collectors.

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.

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