Top Russell Wilson Rookie Cards
Largely overlooked in college and at the start of his pro career with the Seattle Seahawks, Russell Wilson made quick believers of NFL fans and collectors. This, in turn, led to a surge in interest for Russell Wilson rookie cards.
Below is a list of the top Russell Wilson cards from 2012, his rookie year. We didn't limit the list to strictly the main rookie cards, though, opting for a mix of base rookie cards, inserts and NCAA cards.
While value certainly comes into play, it's not the only factor. Card quality, secondary market reception and potential were also considered. Extremely limited cards are not included and parallels were avoided.
Regardless of where they might end up on your own list, we think the following cards are awesome additions for anyone considering going big on Russell Wilson rookie cards or those who might just want to pick up a few cool cards.
Those wanting the full rundown can check out the full Russell Wilson NFL rookie card checklist. For a real-time snapshot of his most popular cards at auction, view a guide to the Hottest Russell Wilson Cards.
Top Russell Wilson Rookie Cards
Buy specific cards or track prices using the links below.
10. 2012 Topps Valor Russell Wilson RC #35 #/170
This isn't the most valuable Russell Wilson card, though it does carry significant clout considering it doesn't have an autograph. Numbered to 170, it's an official rookie card, albeit one from a one-and-done standalone brand. It's also a decent card for those who might not be able to afford an autograph or extremely limited parallel.
9. 2012 Topps Triple Threads Russell Wilson RC #131 Autographed Jersey #/99 - 2 versions
The 2012 Topps Triple Threads Russell Wilson rookie card is a bit of a strange beast. It has two different versions, both of which are numbered to 99. The only difference is how the jersey windows are cut. Individually, this makes each card rare. However, if you don't have a preference and aren't going for both, it shouldn't take too much looking to find one. The sticker autograph is something of a turnoff. Base versions also use plain jersey pieces. Both of these factors take it down a notch, especially given Triple Threads' high-end pedigree.
8. 2012 Panini Prime Signatures Russell Wilson RC #269 Autograph #/199 (Redemption)
Prime Signatures wasn't one of Panini's hottest sellers in 2012. However, the rookie cards are certainly worth a look. Hard signed and relatively rare, this Russell Wilson card takes a less is more approach. The look is simple, but it emphasizes the autograph. It's also very reasonably priced considering what you get. It was originally a redemption but is now live on the secondary market.
7. 2012 Panini Black Rookie Signature Materials Prime Russell Wilson #25 #/349
Yes. Panini Black is a brand that borrows very liberally from Upper Deck Black. That said, these cards still look very strong. This Russell Wilson card comes with an on-card autograph that's done in gold on a black background. The result is a striking signature that's about as bold as you're going to find. Combine that with a prime jersey swatch and a relatively rare but not scarce print run and you've got one of the strongest 2012 Russell Wilson cards.
6.2012 Topps Chrome Rookie Autographs Russell Wilson #40 (Redemption)
Topps Chrome has a long history with collectors, offering a nice balance of pop and widespread appeal. Unlike sets like National Treasures and Five Star, Topps Chrome comes with an affordable price tag. Not all cards are huge, but big names are very well received. This autograph was a redemption. Unfortunately, it comes with a sticker, which really stands out with the Chrome stock. Inserted as a redemption, the many Refractor parallels are extremely popular.
5. 2012 Topps Strata Clear Cut Autographed Relic Rookie Russell Wilson #CCAR-RW
Building off of the Shadow Box concept started several years earlier by Upper Deck, the big draw of 2012 Topps Strata Football are the one-per-box Clear Cut Autographs. Featuring a massive player-work jersey or patch swatch, the layered cards have autographed acetate on top. A neat feature of the cards is that they also have a small window so that you can feel the swatch. Basic versions have plain swatches, but once you get into the rarer parallels, there are some very nice Russell Wilson patch pieces to be found.
4. 2012 Topps Five Star Russell Wilson RC #159 Autographed Patch #/50
An on-card autograph, patch swatch and a tiny print run of just 50 copies make this one of the top official Russell Wilson rookie cards. However, the pricey brand has yet to catch on fully like National Treasures and Contenders have. It doesn't help that many of the patch swatches are small and plain. The print run may actually work against it as it's impossible for it to gain widespread appeal. In the long-term, it could also prove to be one of the biggest bargains.
3. 2012 Upper Deck Exquisite Russell Wilson #127 Autographed Patch #/150
When Upper Deck was producing NFL cards, Exquisite was the go-to brand. However, collectors shouldn't overlook their college products as they're still garnering tremendous secondary market attention. The 2012 Exquisite Russell Wilson may not be an official rookie card in the traditional sense, but it still demands a ton of respect. It comes with an on-card autograph and a patch from a player-worn jersey.
2. 2012 Panini Contenders Russell Wilson RC Autograph #225 (Redemption)
Contenders has long been a popular set for rookie collectors. And that's a huge reason why this is the top-selling Russell Wilson rookie card outside of National Treasures. The card is not numbered, but Panini has confirmed the print run at 550 copies.
A variation with Wilson in a white jersey is limited to only 25 copies.
1. 2012 National Treasures Russell Wilson RC #325 Autographed Patch #/99 (Redemption)
The best Russell Wilson rookie card came as a redemption card in the high-end 2012 NT set. As far as value and appeal, it just beats out the Contenders card thanks to the brand power, quality swatch, on-card signature and extreme rarity.
 | Making purchases through affiliate links can earn the site a commission |
JOHN C HUGHS
Panini says there are only 25 copies of the Contenders #225 with the white uniform but PSA has graded (80) 10’s of this card???
Trey Treutel
Yep, that’s odd. Sounds like someone came up with the wrong total.