The most coveted NFL football cards from legendary MVP winners

Football cards have long been a prized possession for sports card collectors, preserving memories, career-defining moments and the appeal of the sport's greatest legends. Some of the most valuable cards are those of NFL players who have achieved unprecedented greatness, such as winning the league's MVP title multiple times. Six of those players have won the prestigious MVP award at least three times: Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Jim Brown and Johnny Unitas. Their rookie cards, autographs and rare variations are among the most sought-after treasures in the sports card market today.

Let's take a look at the most coveted football cards for each of these legends and explore why these pieces of cardboard have such immense value.

1. Peyton Manning – The masterful offensive maestro

Peyton Manning's legacy in football is undeniable and his cards are equally legendary. Manning, a five-time MVP winner, revolutionized the quarterback position with his mental acumen and pinpoint accuracy.

His 1998 Topps Chrome #165 Rookie Card is one of this NFL star's most iconic cards. Known for its glossy finish and flawless design, it is a card that commands respect in the hobby world. In fine or pristine condition, this card can fetch a high price, especially since Manning remains a popular figure in the football world even after his retirement.

But perhaps the crown jewel of Manning cards is the 1998 Playoff Contenders Ticket Autograph #87. This signed rookie card has it all: rarity, an on-card signature, and the prestige of coming from one of the most prestigious sets in football card history . Because there are only a limited number available, this is a card that top collectors dream of owning.

2. Aaron Rodgers – The precision passer

Four-time MVP winner Aaron Rodgers continues to delight football fans with his ability to make impossible throws seem routine. As his legacy grows, so does the value of his rookie cards.

His 2005 Topps Chrome #190 Rookie Card is a favorite among collectors. Like Manning's Topps Chrome, Rodgers' card from this set has an elegant design and is highly sought after in mint condition.

Even more prestigious is the 2005 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autograph #101. One of the most valuable Rodgers cards, this signed rookie card is a key highlight of his early career. Its rarity and the fact that it bears Rodgers' authentic signature make it a true collector's item, especially for fans who have followed Rodgers' journey from backup to legend.

3. Tom Brady – The Greatest of All Time

Tom Brady's dominance on the football field is also reflected in the world of sports cards, where his most famous cards have broken records. Brady, a three-time MVP and seven-time Super Bowl champion, has some of the most expensive cards in the history of the hobby.

The holy grail of football cards is Brady's 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Autograph #144. This card is as rare as it gets, with only a handful of them available in high quality. The combination of rarity, an autograph on the card and the fact that it is Brady's rookie card has made it one of the most valuable football cards ever sold, with some reaching seven figures at auction .

For those who can't quite match the astronomical prices of the championship ticket, Brady's 2000 Bowman Chrome #236 Rookie Card offers another opportunity to own a valuable piece. Known for its beautiful chrome finish, this card has become an essential for serious Brady collectors.

4. Brett Favre – The Iron Man

Brett Favre's rugged style of play and gunslinger mentality made him a fan favorite during his 20-year career, which included three consecutive MVP awards from 1995 to 1997.

The 1991 Stadium Club #94 Rookie Card is one of Favre's most iconic cards. It captures the early days of his career before he became a legend in Green Bay. While not as rare as some others, it remains one of his most popular rookie cards, especially for collectors who appreciate the nostalgic feel of the early '90s cards.

One more elusive Favre card is the 1991 Wild Card 1000 Stripe Rookie. The Wild Card series introduced a unique “stripe” system, with the 1000 stripe cards being extremely rare. Due to its rarity and association with Favre's debut year, this card is of great value.

5. Jim Brown – The Powerhouse Running Back

Jim Brown, a three-time MVP and arguably the greatest running back of all time, is a legend whose influence extends beyond football. His rookie card is equally legendary.

The 1958 Topps #62 Rookie Card is Jim Brown's only recognized rookie card and one of the most valuable vintage football cards of all time. The map's historical significance, coupled with Brown's enduring legacy, makes it a must-have for vintage collectors. Cards in mint condition command significant premiums due to the age and rarity of well-preserved examples.

6. Johnny Unitas – The original quarterback star

Johnny Unitas is widely considered one of the pioneers of the modern quarterback position. His career, which spanned three decades, left an indelible mark on the NFL.

Unitas' most sought-after card is his 1957 Topps #138 rookie card. One of the earliest and most iconic football cards, this vintage card symbolizes the golden age of the sport. Collectors value them not only for their historical value, but also for the challenge of finding them in good condition due to the age of the map and the quality of printing from the period.

Football cards of legends like Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Jim Brown and Johnny Unitas are more than just pieces of cardboard. They represent the careers of some of the greatest players to ever take the field. As the sports card market continues to evolve, these cards will remain valuable assets in any collection for years to come, retaining both notional and monetary value.