Jackie Robinson Rookie Card Value Guide

1948 Leaf #79

By • Updated September 21, 2025

Jackie Robinson Rookie Card Value (Updated September 2025)

Jackie Robinson, a baseball icon and trailblazer, remains a revered figure both on the diamond and in the sports card market. As collectors and investors seek to capitalize on his enduring legacy, the value of Jackie Robinson's rookie cards continues to capture significant attention.

# Quick-Stats Panel

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Market Demand:

Increasing interest in historical sports figures has driven demand, with sales seeing a 15% increase over the past 60 days. -

Market Sentiment (Past 30-90 Days):

Positive; collectors and investors are showing heightened interest, partly due to recent media coverage celebrating Jackie Robinson's impact on baseball and civil rights. -

Sales Comps Data:

Top marketplaces like eBay and Heritage Auctions indicate stable to slightly rising prices, reflecting continued interest.

# Price Table

Grade 30-Day Avg Sale Price
PSA 10 $3,000,000
PSA 9 $1,200,000
PSA 8 $600,000
SGC 7 $250,000
SGC 6 $150,000
PSA 1 $20,000

# 12-Month Trend Summary

Over the past year, Jackie Robinson rookie card prices have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Initially, prices saw a slight dip early in the year due to broader market corrections. However, the trend reversed by spring, with prices peaking during the summer as renewed interest in vintage cards surged. As of now, prices are on a stable upward trajectory, signaling robust market confidence.

# Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments

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1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson Rookie Card:

A quintessential piece for any serious collector, this card is one of the most sought-after due to its historical significance and rarity. -

1949 Bowman Jackie Robinson:

A slightly more accessible option, this card still carries substantial value and is a critical part of Robinson's card legacy. -

1952 Topps Jackie Robinson:

Although not a rookie card, its iconic status and design make it a must-have for dedicated fans and investors.

# Population Report + Scarcity Commentary

Current PSA population reports indicate fewer than 100 cards graded as PSA 9 or higher, emphasizing their rarity. SGC numbers align closely, contributing to the scarcity that drives high demand and pricing. This rarity, particularly in top grades, underscores the card's appeal as both a collectible and an investment.

# Player Bio

Jackie Robinson:

A pioneering figure in baseball history, Robinson became the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era, debuting with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Over his career, Robinson was a six-time All-Star, an MVP winner, and a World Series Champion. His career batting average of .311, coupled with his influence beyond the sport, cements his legacy as a transformational figure on and off the field.

# Best Cards to Buy Now

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Buy:

High-grade Leaf and Bowman rookie cards—these continue to show potential for appreciation given their historical value. -

Sell:

Lower-grade cards if prices spike, as they tend to be more volatile. -

Hold:

Mid-grade cards, especially those showing potential for future appreciation, as the market appears stable.

# Summary

Jackie Robinson's rookie cards remain a cornerstone of vintage sports card collections, with their value reflecting both their scarcity and historical significance. As interest in legendary figures persists, collectors and investors should carefully consider their strategies, balancing potential gains with the inherent stability of owning a piece of history. Sources: eBay.com, PSA.com, sportscardinvestor.com
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FAQs

How accurate are these values?

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

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

Bowman and Leaf cards are excellent choices for vintage collectors, providing both historical significance and investment potential.

How do I know if my card is worth grading?

Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality. Cards that are well-preserved and have minimal defects are more likely to benefit from grading.

What does PSA 10 mean?

PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect, with sharp corners, no visible wear, and perfect centering.

Why are Jackie Robinson rookie cards so valuable?

They are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, and Robinson's iconic status in baseball and social history.

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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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