If you’re diving into the world of vintage sports card collecting or aiming to enrich your existing collection, there’s an abundance of iconic cards waiting for you—all priced under $1,000. From baseball heroes to basketball and football icons, these cards resonate with history and allure, making them an excellent foundation for any collector. Here’s a compilation of ten diverse vintage sports cards spanning multiple sports that will undoubtedly kickstart your collection with style.

1. 1953 Topps Satchel Paige (Baseball)

The 1953 Topps card of Satchel Paige stands as a testament to one of the most legendary pitchers in baseball history. Making his MLB debut in his 40s after a spectacular career in the Negro Leagues, Paige’s impact on the sport was profound. A PSA 1 or SGC 1 graded version of this card can be acquired for approximately $600.

2. 1956 Topps Jackie Robinson (Baseball)

Jackie Robinson, a pioneer in baseball and society, is immortalized in his 1956 Topps card. Featuring a dynamic action shot, this card in a PSA 2 condition can be found for under $500, presenting an affordable homage to a groundbreaking player.

3. 1955 Topps Sandy Koufax Rookie Card (Baseball)

Renowned for his unparalleled pitching prowess, Sandy Koufax’s 1955 Topps rookie card is a must-have for collectors. You can add a low-grade version of this card to your collection for under $500, encapsulated by PSA or SGC.

4. 1954 Topps Ernie Banks Rookie Card (Baseball)

Nicknamed “Mr. Cub,” Ernie Banks was a beloved player of his era. His 1954 Topps rookie card serves as a cornerstone in vintage baseball collections, available in low-grade condition for around $700.

5. 1980 Topps Larry Bird/Magic Johnson Rookie Card (Basketball)

Featuring basketball legends Larry Bird and Magic Johnson alongside Julius Erving, this iconic card is a piece of NBA history. Low-grade copies can be easily found for under $1,000, making it a valuable addition to any basketball card collection.

6. 1971 Topps Terry Bradshaw Rookie Card (Football)

Terry Bradshaw, a four-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Fame quarterback, is a legend in the NFL. His 1971 Topps rookie card is an affordable vintage football collectible, typically priced around $800 for PSA grades 5 or 6.

7. 1965 Topps Joe Namath Rookie Card (Football)

The charismatic “Broadway Joe” Namath remains a prominent figure in NFL history. His 1965 Topps rookie card, renowned for its oversized design, is highly sought after by collectors. Low-grade examples can be acquired for around $900.

8. 1961 Fleer Wilt Chamberlain Rookie Card (Basketball)

Wilt Chamberlain’s rookie card is a gem in any basketball collection. While higher-grade versions come with a hefty price tag, lower-grade examples from PSA or SGC can still be obtained for under $1,000, offering a chance to own a piece of basketball history.

9. 1953 Bowman Color Mickey Mantle (Baseball)

The captivating design of the 1953 Bowman Color card captures Mickey Mantle during the early stages of his illustrious career. Graded at PSA 1 or 2, this card is one of the pricier entries on our list, but still attainable at around $900.

10. 1969 Topps Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) Rookie Card (Basketball)

Before he adopted the name Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lew Alcindor was already a standout in college and the NBA. His 1969 Topps rookie card, featuring a distinctive tall-boy design, is a staple for basketball collectors. Low-grade examples can be purchased for $800 to $1,000.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or embarking on your collecting journey, these ten cards symbolize a blend of iconic players and historical significance spanning various sports. The increasing interest in vintage sports cards presents an exciting chance to own a piece of sports history at an affordable price point.

via Sports Card News