
Michael Irvin
Date of Birth: 3/5/1966
Rookie Card Year: 1989
Investment Rating: 5.5
Overview
Michael Irvin football cards and autographed memorabilia remain popular for three reasons: his outgoing personality as an analyst for ESPN, his stellar play and lots of championships both in college and with the Dallas Cowboys. Any one of those factors on their can propel the value of an athlete's collectibles. Combine all three and you have something special.
Michael Irvin has three rookie cards, all of which were produced during an era of overproduction. They are found in 1989 Pro Set, 1989 Score and 1989 Topps. As with many rookie cards from this era, the real values are found in higher-grade cards. His Score card is the most popular. Even PSA 10 examples can be purchased for less than $50.
Irvin's first certified autographed card is part of 1991 Pro Line Portraits. He continued to appear on autograph checklists throughout the decade. In 1996, Collector's Edge issued the first Michael Irvin memorabilia card, which included a piece of leather from a game-used Super Bowl football.
Michael Irvin's autographed memorabilia is highly collectible. This not only includes Dallas Cowboys items but University of Miami gear as well. A gregarious personality, he takes the time to interact with fans during in-person signings. His schedule for ESPN keeps him busy but he does occasionally participate at larger events.
Michael Irvin Rookie Card Checklist
1989 Pro Set Michael Irvin RC #89
In their heyday, Pro Set provided collectors with great, albeit sometime blurry, action photos and comprehensive card backs. In comparison to the photos from his other rookie cards, you can see that this one is the best. Unfortunately, the supply far exceeds demand.
1989 Score Michael Irvin RC #18
Produced in smaller quantities than the Topps or Pro Set releases, this is the card collectors gravitate towards as being Irvin's most valuable rookie card. The solid blue borders do make it a slight challenge when submitting for grading in hopes of a 9.5 or 10 and that is part of the appeal of the card.
1989 Topps Michael Irvin RC #383
The framed photograph and designation as Irvin being a "Super Rookie" is pretty cool but the non-action image and obtrusive cloud with his name, team and position leaves a little something to be desired.
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Autograph Guide
Michael Irvin Memorabilia Buying Guide
Below you will find examples of what an authentic Michael Irvin 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, Steiner, Tristar and Mounted Memories. Click on any of the images below to view full size photos.
Michael Irvin Signature Example
Michael Irvin Key Signature Attributes: An authentic Michael Irvin signature autograph will exhibit several distinguishing characteristics. Regardless of the type of item or when it was signed, look for the following signature features:
- Irvin possess a difficult and often changing signature.
- The size and letter formations can vary depending upon the item being signed and the writing implement being used.
- His signature, at the minimum typically looks like the above example.
- The letter "M" is usually discernible as is his jersey "88."
Michael Irvin Signed Football Pricing:
Active Listings for Michael Irvin Signed Footballs
Michael Irvin Signed Jersey Pricing:
Active Listings for Michael Irvin Signed Jerseys
Michael Irvin Signed Helmet Pricing:
Active Listings for Michael Irvin Signed Helmets
Michael Irvin Signed Photograph Pricing:
Active Listings for Michael Irvin Signed Photographs
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More Info
For general information and player statistics for Michael Irvin, visit: