
Barry Sanders
Date of Birth: 7/16/1968
Rookie Card Year: 1989
Investment Rating: 8.5
Overview
Barry Sanders was a rare talent who took the NFL by storm, becoming one of football's greatest running backs of all-time. He then shocked everyone when he walked away from the game at the height of his ability and popularity. Now a Hall of Fame player, Barry Sanders cards and memorabilia remain in high demand.
In spite of Sanders' amazing ability and NFL contributions, his rookie cards are very reasonably priced. All three Barry Sanders football rookie cards are highlighted below. The cards were part of the huge print runs of the late-1980's, so prices are generally cheap outside of Gem Mint copies.
Barry Sanders Rookie Cards Checklist Gallery
1989 Pro Set Barry Sanders RC #494
Another common rookie, the card shows the only action shot of the group and the image is from Sanders' college days. The borderline-obnoxious, orange/red border almost matches the main color of his alma mater, Oklahoma State. The lined sides give the card a choppy look and make it easy to spot the centering issue that a lot of these cards have.
1989 Score Barry Sanders RC #25
Barry Sanders' 1989 Score card is the pinnacle of his rookie cards. The close-up image of Sanders shows a young player who looks more suited for a high school classroom than an NFL field. It would not be long until he was one of the most feared running backs in the NFL. Overall, the card has a classic feel but the green border tends to dominate the card.
1989 Topps Traded Barry Sanders RC #83T
Barry Sanders' Topps Traded card has a nice and simple layout. This card is the only one that shows Sanders in his Lions' uniform and offers collectors the best rookie image of the three.
![]() |
Autograph Guide
Barry Sanders Autographed Memorabilia Buying Guide
Below you will find an example of what Barry Sanders' authentic signature looks like. This can be used as a first point of reference for determining the legitimacy of autograph memorabilia, but is not a substitute for having your items authenticated by a well-respected professional autograph authentication company. Some of the trusted sources within the sports memorabilia market include the following companies: PSA, JSA, Tristar, and Mounted Memories.Â
Barry Sanders Cut Signature Exemplar
Barry Sanders Key Signature Attributes:Â An authentic Barry Sanders signature autograph will exhibit several distinguishing characteristics, depending on when in his career the item was signed. Other characteristics that play into his signature style are the particular item and venue. Look for the following signature features:
- Barry Sanders' signature is not as consistent as other signers. It can vary greatly between legible and messy, but still exhibits the same general look.
- The signature begins with a large "B" that does not connect at the bottom, and loops around back to the remainder of the signature.
- The pen lifts and then starts with the "a" and moves quickly to the "y" with a slight squiggle to imply the "r-r".
- The last name starts with a large "S" that resembles a figure eight.
- Again, the "a" is legible but only the "d" is clear among the remaining letters.
- The signatures ends with an outward line that loops and comes back.
Barry Sanders Signed Football Pricing:
Active Listings for Barry Sanders Signed Footballs
Barry Sanders Signed Jersey Pricing:
Active Listings for Barry Sanders Signed Jerseys
Barry Sanders Signed Helmet Pricing:
Active Listings for Barry Sanders Signed Helmets
Barry Sanders Signed Photograph Pricing:
Active Listings for Barry Sanders Signed Photographs
![]() |
More Info
For general information and player statistics visit: