Aaron Judge has made a name for himself in Major League Baseball, breaking records and winning numerous awards during his time with the New York Yankees. Collectors have taken notice of his 2017 American League Rookie of the Year and 2022 AL MVP titles, but what are the best Aaron Judge cards to start with? Here are our top picks.
Key Considerations
When it comes to the value of sports cards, factors like condition, print runs, and graded status can all play a role in determining their worth. Other influences include player performance, market trends, and the overall state of the economy. Typically, the offseason is the best time to find deals in the secondary card market. The suggestions shared here are not meant as financial advice, but rather as recommendations for popular and unique cards that are highly regarded by the sports collecting community.
Ultimately, the best cards to collect are the ones that bring you joy, regardless of their monetary value. The recommendations below can serve as a starting point, but part of the thrill of collecting is discovering the cards that resonate with you the most.
Raw vs. Graded Cards
When it comes to buying cards, you can choose between raw cards (unaltered and untouched from the pack) and graded cards (evaluated and sealed in a protective case by a third-party grading company). Graded cards, especially those with high grades like PSA 10, often carry a premium compared to raw cards. While buying raw cards can be more affordable, graded cards offer assurances of authenticity and condition, particularly when purchasing online.
Among Judge’s collection, his 2013 Bowman Chrome #BDPP19 stands out as a valuable option due to its availability and pricing, making it a great starting point for collectors.
Top Low-End (~$1-$99) Aaron Judge Cards
If you’re on a budget or not overly concerned about long-term value, consider cards like Judge’s 2017 Topps #287 rookie card, which offers a good balance of demand and affordability. This card captures Judge’s early career and is a solid entry-level choice for collectors.
For those interested in historical designs, the 2017 Topps Archives #62 rookie card is a tribute to classic card styles and showcases Judge in a unique light.
Top Mid-Range (~$100-$499) Aaron Judge Cards
Entering the mid-range price bracket, cards like Judge’s 2013 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects #BDPP19 offer a blend of scarcity and value, making them attractive options for collectors looking to invest a bit more. This card represents Judge’s earliest days with the Yankees and has limited availability compared to more common retail sets.
Another standout in this range is the 2017 Topps Chrome #169 rookie card, known for its popularity and various parallel versions that can cater to different collector preferences.
Top High-End (~$500+) Aaron Judge Cards
For collectors seeking premium options, cards like the 2017 Topps Heritage Real One Autographs #AJ rookie card present a unique opportunity to own a piece of Judge’s autographed memorabilia. Featuring his signature directly on the card, this autographed card is a coveted item for serious collectors.
Another high-end choice is the 2017 Topps Chrome Sapphire Edition #287 rookie card, noted for its rarity and exclusivity. With only a limited number of copies produced, this card is considered a prized possession among Judge enthusiasts.
Other Standout Aaron Judge Cards
In addition to the main recommendations, two other notable Judge cards include the 2021 and 2022 Panini Absolute Kaboom! inserts, known for their appealing design and unique status. These cards stand out despite Panini’s lack of MLB licensing, showcasing Judge in a visually striking manner.
Another intriguing card is the 2021 Topps Now Field of Dreams Game Autograph and Corn Stalk Relic, which commemorates a special moment in Judge’s career with a unique piece of game-used memorabilia.
Price Considerations
When purchasing trading cards, it’s essential to research recent sales data to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Utilize tools like eBay’s sold items filter and online databases to assess market trends and make informed buying decisions.
Why Trust Us
Our expert, Tyler Holzhammer, brings years of experience as a sports card collector and analyst, offering valuable insights into the hobby. With a passion for collecting and a deep understanding of the market, Tyler provides trusted recommendations for fellow collectors.
Selection Criteria
Our card selections are based on thorough market research, including factors like card values, sales volume, set popularity, and grading population. By combining data-driven analysis with personal expertise, we deliver a curated list of top Aaron Judge cards for collectors of all levels.
When you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, but rest assured that our content is independent and unbiased.
Additional Resources
(Top photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images; all card images: eBay)