Lawrence Taylor 1982 Topps Card Value Guide

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By Bob Villemure • Updated August 13, 2025

# Lawrence Taylor 1982 Topps Card Value (Updated August 2025)

Quick-Stats Panel

Market Insights:

Over the past 30-90 days, the Lawrence Taylor 1982 Topps rookie card has experienced a steady demand among collectors and investors, driven by Taylor's legendary status as one of the best defensive players in NFL history. -

Recent Sales Comps:

Analysis from top marketplaces like eBay.com and Heritage Auctions show consistent interest, with PSA 9 and 10 grades commanding the highest premiums. -

Player Statistical Performance:

While Taylor is retired, his career stats remain impressive—132.5 career sacks, 1,088 tackles, and 9 interceptions. -

Market Sentiment:

Overall sentiment remains bullish with collectors eager to own a piece of NFL history.

Price Table

Grade	PSA	SGC
10	$12,000	$11,500
9	$5,500	$5,200
8	$2,800	$2,600

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, the 1982 Topps Lawrence Taylor rookie card has shown a notable price trend. The card experienced a peak in November 2024, coinciding with Taylor's induction anniversary into the Hall of Fame. Prices dipped slightly in early 2025 due to a brief market correction but have stabilized and are currently on an upward trajectory, fueled by a resurgence of interest in vintage football cards.

Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

Lawrence Taylor 1982 Topps Rookie Card #434 (PSA 10):

The most sought-after card for serious investors looking to capitalize on its rarity and historical significance.

Lawrence Taylor 1986 Topps #180:

While not a rookie card, this card is part of the iconic 1986 set and holds value due to Taylor's MVP season that year.

Lawrence Taylor 1989 Score #258:

Known for its vibrant design and lower print run, this card has gained traction among collectors seeking unique additions to their collection.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

PSA Population:

Approximately 200 PSA 10s, 600 PSA 9s, and 1,000 PSA 8s. -

SGC Population:

Similar distribution with slightly fewer high-grade cards. -

Scarcity Impact:

High-grade cards are rare and command significant premiums, particularly PSA 10s due to their near-perfect condition.

Player Bio

Lawrence Taylor, a cornerstone of the New York Giants' defense, redefined the linebacker position with his aggressive play. His accolades include two-time Super Bowl champion, 10-time Pro Bowler, and 1986 NFL MVP. Taylor was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

Best Cards to Buy Now

Outlook:

Buy/Hold -

Buy:

PSA 8-10 grades of the 1982 Topps rookie card, especially before potential increases in demand as the NFL season ramps up. -

Hold:

Mid to lower-grade cards; with steady market interest, these remain solid investments for long-term value.

Recommendation:

Investing in Lawrence Taylor's 1982 Topps rookie card is a wise choice for collectors seeking historical significance coupled with market potential. With a strong legacy and fan interest, these cards are likely to appreciate over time.

Summary

Lawrence Taylor's 1982 Topps rookie card remains a cornerstone for any serious football card collection. With its combination of rarity, historical value, and continued collector interest, it's a card that offers robust investment potential. Whether you're a casual collector or a seasoned investor, acquiring this card can be a rewarding endeavor.

User Questions and Answers

🕒 Searching sold items…

🔥 Top 6 Auctions by Bids:

SGC 8.5 1982 Topps #434 Lawrence Taylor New York Giants NO RESERVE! HOF ROOKIE
$51.00 · 11 bids · 3 days 8 hours 27 minutes
1982 Topps LAWRENCE TAYLOR RC #434 PSA Grade 8 NMMT-Cond UNDER GRADED No Reserve
$32.00 · 11 bids · 2 days 6 hours 53 minutes
1982 Topps - Lawrence Taylor #434 (RC)
$17.50 · 10 bids · 5 hours 22 minutes
1982 TOPPS ALL-PRO #434 LAWRENCE TAYLOR PSA 10
$131.50 · 10 bids · 5 days 6 hours 40 minutes
1982 Topps Set-Break #434 Lawrence Taylor RC NM OR BETTER VERY WELL CENTERED
$17.50 · 8 bids · 5 days 8 hours 16 minutes
1982 Topps Lawrence Taylor Rookie RC #434 Giants PSA 7
$24.95 · 7 bids · 1 days 5 hours 34 minutes

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from platforms like eBay and Heritage Auctions.

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

Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm are great long-term investments.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to determine if your card is worth grading.

What does PSA 10 mean?

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

Why is Lawrence Taylor's 1982 Topps card so valuable?

It's valuable due to Taylor's legendary NFL career and the card's rarity, especially in high grades.

What influences the price of a sports card?

Factors include player performance, card rarity, grading, and collector 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.

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