🏅 Top 10 Rookie Cards to Invest In Right Now (2025 Edition)
When it comes to sports card investing, rookie cards are the crown jewels. They represent the beginning of a player’s professional journey and, for many collectors, the most valuable long-term assets in their collection.
Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned investor, here are the top 10 rookie cards to invest in right now — based on potential upside, current demand, and legacy-building performances.
1. Victor Wembanyama – 2023-24 Panini Prizm RC
The most hyped NBA prospect since LeBron James, Wemby is redefining what a 7-footer can do. His rookie cards are already climbing in value, especially PSA 10 Prizm base and color parallels.
🔥 Why invest: Unicorn upside, global market appeal, already producing.
2. CJ Stroud – 2023 Panini Prizm RC
Stroud had a phenomenal rookie season with the Texans, setting rookie QB records and leading a playoff charge. His autographed rookie cards are heating up across all major sets.
🔥 Why invest: Young franchise QB, strong team support, poised for greatness.
3. Elly De La Cruz – 2023 Bowman Chrome RC
A switch-hitting phenom with speed and power, Elly has quickly become a hobby favorite. His Bowman Chrome 1st and auto parallels are already attracting serious attention.
🔥 Why invest: Electric highlight reel player, sky-high ceiling.
4. Connor Bedard – 2023 Upper Deck Young Guns RC
The NHL’s next superstar, Bedard is already lighting up highlight reels. His Young Guns rookie and high-grade parallels are selling fast.
🔥 Why invest: Hockey’s next face of the league, limited supply.
5. Anthony Volpe – 2023 Topps Chrome RC
The Yankees’ promising shortstop had a solid debut season, and being in New York helps boost his long-term hobby value.
🔥 Why invest: Big market, great upside, and long-term potential.
6. Anthony Edwards – 2020 Panini Prizm RC
Still young and rising, Ant-Man’s dynamic play and growing leadership in Minnesota are propelling his stock. PSA 10s and Silvers are undervalued relative to his ceiling.
🔥 Why invest: Star on the rise, playoff performer, fan favorite.
7. Brock Purdy – 2022 Panini Donruss Optic / Prizm RC
A Cinderella story turned Pro Bowl QB, Purdy's cards skyrocketed in 2023 and show no signs of slowing down.
🔥 Why invest: Top-tier team, proven postseason player.
8. Jasson Domínguez – 2020 Bowman Chrome 1st RC
While sidelined by injury, “The Martian” remains a major Yankees prospect with huge potential. Buy low opportunities exist now.
🔥 Why invest: Massive upside, hobby hype favorite.
9. Julio Rodríguez – 2021 Bowman Chrome / 2022 Topps RC
Already an All-Star and face of the Mariners, J-Rod’s rookie cards continue to rise with his stats. Graded autos and refractors are especially in demand.
🔥 Why invest: Superstar personality and performance.
10. Trevor Lawrence – 2021 Panini Prizm RC
After a rocky start, T-Law is becoming the franchise QB Jacksonville hoped for. His cards dipped in 2023, but that means there's buying value heading into a comeback year.
🔥 Why invest: Long-term NFL investment, elite skillset.
🧠 Pro Tip: Focus on PSA/BGS 9.5–10 Grades
If you’re collecting to invest, condition is key. Graded cards in top condition command the best resale prices and hold long-term value better.
🏆 Where to Buy Rookie Cards?
You can shop authentic, PSA-graded rookie cards — including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more — at GametimeVintage.com.
Each card in our collection is verified, authenticated, and packed with care for collectors who value quality and heritage.
