Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning is one of the most consistent players in NFL history. His strong play and accomplishments over the years have made him an elite option for collectors and one of the most pursued quarterbacks in the league today. As such, Peyton Manning cards and memorabilia command premium sales prices on the secondary market.

Up until the 2011 season, Peyton Manning cards were one of the safest investments a football collector could make. However, the danger that now faces collectors is the uncertainty of the neck injury he sustained. Based on age, it is likely that Manning has already reached his peak. From here, it is hard to see him retaining his role as the offensive catalyst for the Colts (or another team).

However, even if he has played his final game, he's already earned a spot in the Hall of Fame. As such, Peyton Manning cards are a great investment option for the long haul regardless of if he makes a comeback or is forced to retire.

Top 5 Peyton Manning Cards

1998 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autographs #87 (#/200, autograph)

Although technically not a true rookie card, Manning's Playoff Contenders Ticket autograph is easily his most sought after first-year card thanks to the on-card autograph and low print run. If you are looking for the crown jewel of Peyton Manning cards to add to your collection, look no further. But expect to pay a hefty sum if you are able to find one of these rare gems.

1998 SP Authentic #14 (#/2000)

Showcasing his youthful appearance, Manning's SP Authentic rookie card is a perfect reminder of how long he has been in the league. The portrait shot shows Manning patiently waiting for his chance to take the league by storm. The base card is numbered out of 2000 and there is also a die-cut parallel (pictured) numbered out of 500. This probably the most recognizable of all Peyton Manning cards. And it doesn't hurt that its got the SP Authentic brand name behind it, long considered by many collectors to be the football rookie card equivalent to Bowman's baseball card line (at least until Upper Deck's recent loss of the NFL licensing rights).

1998 SPx Finite #181 (#/1998)

Another one of the most sought after serial numbered Peyton Manning cards, it was made all the more valuable because of how rare serial numbered cards was back in the 90's.. At the time, it naturally helped distinguish the more elite brands. The SPx Finite card portrays a common profile action shot and the glossy finish makes smudges and chipping more obvious.

1998 Bowman Rookie Autographs #A1

If you can't afford the Contenders Auto, this card is a great back up plan. Unfortunately, this card also isn't part of the base set, so it doesn't qualify as a true rookie. This would bother me a lot more if he did have a true rookie auto, as none of Manning's 1998 Auto's are part of a base set.

1998 Topps Autographs #A10B

If the 1998 Bowman Rookie Auto doesn't appeal to you, this is a great alternative. It tends to be a little cheaper.

Best Match Items Ending First Newly-Listed Items First Price + Shipping: Lowest First Price + Shipping: Highest First

2012 PRESS PASS ANDREW LUCK AUTO RED ALL AMERICAN 2 OF 25!! NEXT PEYTON MANNING? $240.00

PEYTON MANNING 07 TOPPS TX PLAYOFF PATCH AUTO S#D 5 5 VERY RARE AUTOGRAPH $$$$ $250.00

2001 Upper Deck Game Gear Peyton Manning autograph $199.99

Brett Favre Peyton Manning Quad AUTO SP MINT #01 10 #1 1 06 Exquisite Packers SP $449.50

1999 Donruss Elite Peyton Manning Johnny Unitas Passing the Torch auto BGS 9 $2,500.00

Peyton Manning 2000 UD Pros and Prospects Autograph J $119.99

Peyton Manning Auto 2002 SPX Upper Deck Colts Broncos Mint $40.00

1998 BOWMAN FOOTBALL RARE HOBBY BOX POSSIBLE PEYTON MANNING RANDY MOSS AUTO RCs $125.00