Walter Payton Card Value Guide

By Bob Villemure • Updated July 20, 2025

# Walter Payton Rookie Card Value (Updated July 2025)

Quick-Stats Panel

As of July 2025, the Walter Payton rookie card remains a cornerstone of vintage football card collections, revered for its historical significance and aesthetic appeal. A review of recent sales data from major marketplaces, including eBay and PWCC, reveals several insights: -

Market Demand:

Steady interest with moderate fluctuations, driven by nostalgia and Payton’s legendary status. -

Sales Comps:

Consistent sale volume in the past 30-90 days, with notable transactions pushing the card to high average values. -

Player Performance Stats:

While retired, Payton's enduring legacy as an NFL icon continues to bolster interest. -

Market Sentiment:

Generally positive, with stable prices suggesting strong collector confidence.

Price Table

Here's a detailed look at the 30-day average sale prices for Walter Payton’s rookie card across PSA and SGC grades:

Grade	PSA	SGC
10	$18,500	$17,200
9	$6,800	$6,200
8	$3,400	$3,100
7	$1,800	$1,600
6	$1,000	$900
5	$750	$700
4	$500	$480
3	$350	$330
2	$250	$240
1	$150	$140

12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, the Walter Payton rookie card has experienced a dynamic market presence: -

Peaks:

June 2024 saw a peak, likely driven by the anniversary of Payton's historic rushing record. -

Dips:

A slight dip occurred in December 2024, attributed to seasonal market fluctuations. -

Current Trajectory:

The card's current trajectory is upward, indicating renewed interest and potential future gains.

Other Key Cards

Beyond the rookie card, collectors often seek out these important Walter Payton cards:

1981 Topps Walter Payton:

Known for its classic design, this card marks a key year in Payton’s career and is a favorite among fans.

1986 Topps Walter Payton:

Celebrated for showcasing Payton during his peak performance years, this card is highly valued.

1978 Topps Walter Payton:

This card is notable for its historical significance and captures Payton during his MVP season.

Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

According to PSA and SGC reports: -

PSA Population:

Approximately 1,200 graded, with only about 60 achieving a PSA 10 grade. -

SGC Population:

Roughly 900 graded, with similar scarcity in top grades. Scarcity in high-grade Walter Payton rookie cards drives demand, pushing prices higher, particularly for PSA 9 and 10 graded cards. The limited number available adds a premium for serious collectors.

Player Bio

Walter Payton's iconic career stats solidify his status in the NFL pantheon: -

Career Rushing Yards:

16,726 (2nd all-time) -

Rushing Touchdowns:

110 -

Pro Bowls:

9 -

Awards:

1977 NFL MVP, 1985 Super Bowl Champion These achievements ensure that Payton’s cards remain valuable and sought after by collectors.

Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook

Given the current market conditions, the recommendation is to: -

Buy:

For new collectors looking to invest, high-grade Payton cards are a sound addition. -

Hold:

Existing collectors should hold onto their cards, as value appreciation is likely. -

Sell:

If needing liquidity, consider selling during peak demand periods, such as anniversaries or Hall of Fame inductions.

User Questions and Answers

In summary, Walter Payton’s rookie card remains a valuable asset in the sports card market. Its scarcity, combined with Payton's legendary career, ensures continued interest and price appreciation among collectors and investors alike.

FAQs

How accurate are these values?

These estimates are based on recent sales data from marketplaces such as eBay and PWCC.

What does PSA 10 mean?

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

Why is Walter Payton's rookie card so valuable?

Its value stems from Payton's legendary status and the card's scarcity in high grades.

Should I invest in Walter Payton cards?

Yes, high-grade Payton cards are a solid investment due to his lasting legacy and collector demand.

What factors influence the price of Payton's cards?

Factors include player legacy, card condition, scarcity, and market trends.

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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