John Riggins 1973 Topps 245 Card Value Guide

#245

By Bob Villemure • Updated August 13, 2025

# John Riggins 1973 Topps 245 Card Value (Updated August 2025) A revered figure in the history of American football, John Riggins' legacy transcends his on-field accomplishments. The 1973 Topps #245 rookie card is an iconic piece for any collector, reflecting not only Riggins' prowess but also the era he dominated. Here's an in-depth analysis of the current market value and investment potential of this treasured card.

Quick-Stats Panel

Market Insights (Past 30-90 Days):

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Sales Comps Data:

Recent sales on platforms such as eBay and Heritage Auctions indicate a stable demand for the John Riggins 1973 Topps #245 card, with slight fluctuations in pricing due to market sentiment. -

Player Statistical Performance:

Riggins' illustrious career highlights include over 11,000 rushing yards and 104 touchdowns, making his cards highly desirable. -

Market Demand:

Steady interest primarily from vintage card collectors and Washington Commanders fans. -

Market Sentiment:

Positive, as vintage cards continue to enjoy a resurgence in interest, partially driven by nostalgia and a growing interest in the sport's history.

Price Table

Below is a 30-day average sale price table for the John Riggins 1973 Topps #245 card across various PSA and SGC grades.

Grade	PSA	SGC
10 (Gem Mint)	$6,500	$6,200
9 (Mint)	$1,800	$1,700
8 (NM-MT)	$750	$700
7 (Near Mint)	$400	$380
6 (Excellent)	$180	$170

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, the John Riggins 1973 Topps #245 card has experienced notable pricing movements: -

Peaks:

Hit a high point in November 2024, fueled by a documentary release on his career, sparking renewed interest. -

Dips:

Slight drop in prices during January 2025, typically a slow season for card sales. -

Current Trajectory:

Prices are trending upwards, buoyed by the overall growth in vintage card markets and consistent demand from collectors.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

Beyond the 1973 Topps #245 card, collectors should also consider: -

1978 Topps #300:

Known for a classic action shot, this card is another must-have for Riggins fans and exemplifies his years with the Washington team. -

1985 Topps #1:

Commemorating his Super Bowl MVP performance, this card is cherished for its historical significance.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

The PSA and SGC population reports indicate a moderate scarcity for high-grade John Riggins 1973 Topps #245 cards: -

PSA Population:

Approximately 300 in PSA 9 or higher. -

SGC Population:

Roughly 200 in SGC 9 or higher. -

Scarcity Influence:

The limited number of high-grade cards drives up demand and prices, making them valuable assets for serious investors.

Player Bio

John Riggins, known as "The Diesel," was a powerhouse running back whose career spanned from 1971 to 1985. His accolades include: -

Career Rushing Yards:

11,352 -

Total Touchdowns:

116 -

Super Bowl XVII MVP

-

Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee:

1992 Riggins' legacy and continued fan admiration keep his cards in high demand.

Best Cards to Buy Now

Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook:

-

Buy:

Now is a great time to invest in PSA 8 and above, as they are expected to appreciate with increasing interest in vintage football cards. -

Sell:

Consider selling lower-grade cards if the market value meets your expectations. -

Hold:

If you're in possession of a PSA 9 or 10, holding may yield significant long-term returns.

Collector’s Recommendation:

The John Riggins 1973 Topps #245 card remains a top choice for both nostalgic value and investment potential. Its iconic status and limited high-grade availability make it a solid addition to any collection.

User Questions and Answers

Sources: eBay.com, PSA.com, sportscardinvestor.com

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from marketplaces like eBay and verified by grading reports from PSA and SGC.

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

Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm for basketball and football.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality; consider grading if it's in excellent condition.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible flaws.

Why is John Riggins' card valuable?

Riggins' storied career, including his Super Bowl MVP, makes his rookie card a prized collectible.

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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