For hockey card collectors, one of the most sought-after cards is the 1985 O-Pee-Chee Mario Lemieux rookie card. This card—which features the Hall of Fame center in his Pittsburgh Penguins uniform—represents an iconic moment in both hockey and sports memorabilia history. In this blog, we will explore why this particular card is so valuable and what you should look for when evaluating its condition.
The Rarity Factor - The 1985 OPC Mario Lemieux rookie card was released as part of a 132-card set that was printed by the Canadian company, O-Pee-Chee. Of these 132 cards, only 66 featured NHL players—making them relatively rare compared to other hockey cards produced during this era. This rarity factor has played a large role in driving up the value of these cards over time.
Condition - As with any collectible item, condition plays a major role in determining its value. When evaluating the condition of your 1985 OPC Mario Lemieux rookie card, here are some key factors to consider:
• Does the card have any creases or bends? Cards that are free from any signs of wear or damage will generally be worth more than those with visible imperfections.
• Are there any signs that it has been tampered with or altered? If so, then its value could be significantly diminished as it would no longer be considered “original” or “authentic” by collectors and dealers alike.
• Is there any evidence that it has been professionally graded by an authentic third party? Professional grading can help to ensure that your card is not only authentic but also correctly identified and valued based on its condition and other relevant factors.
The 1985 OPC Mario Lemieux rookie card is one of the most coveted hockey cards on the market today. Its rarity combined with its timeless design has made it a must-have for many serious collectors around the world. When evaluating your own copy of this collectible item, make sure to take into account factors like condition and professional grading in order to get an accurate assessment of its true value. With careful consideration, you can determine if you’ve got a real treasure on your hands – or just another piece of cardboard!
