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Tom Brady may be retired from football, but his competitive spirit is alive and well-this time, in the world of sports memorabilia.
In the premiere of Complex's new video series, the NFL icon ed host Joe La Puma, known for his "Sneaker Shopping" show, to embark on a different kind of quest: collecting high-end trading cards.
Brady, now a Fox Sports analyst, strolled through a specialty card shop alongside La Puma, reflecting on his childhood love for collecting.
As he examined cards from various eras and athletes, it became clear that this wasn't just casual browsing-this was a personal trip down memory lane for the seven-time Super Bowl champion.
However, it was a modern card that truly caught his attention.
$7,500 Mahomes Rookie Card grabs Brady's attention
Toward the end of the episode, Brady came across a rare 2017 Donruss Optic Patrick Mahomes autographed rookie card, graded 8.5 and valued at $7,500. The card instantly sparked his interest.
"When did this come in? I haven't seen this one-the Mahomes rookie," Brady said, visibly intrigued.
"I want that in my collection. Save that-make sure you don't sell that one."
That statement didn't go unnoticed. Days later, Mahomes playfully responded in the comments section of Complex's Instagram post featuring the clip.
"Let me get that! @tombrady," the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback wrote, adding a light-hearted twist to what has become a serious business for collectors.
Though fun on the surface, this exchange underscores a deeper truth: both Brady and Mahomes sit at the peak of the booming sports card industry. Their memorabilia doesn't just carry sentimental value-it commands astronomical figures at auction.
In 2021, Mahomes' 2017 National Treasures NFL Shield Autographed Rookie Card shattered records when it sold for 4.3 million dollars, making it the most expensive NFL trading card ever sold.
Not far behind was Brady's 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket autographed rookie card, which fetched 3.1 million dollars. The card received a grade of 9 for condition and a perfect 10 (Gem Mint) for Brady's signature.
These massive sales have helped solidify football cards as major assets in the larger world of collectibles-especially those tied to generational talents like Mahomes and Brady. Collectors and investors alike recognize that cards tied to legacy players or rising stars with MVP pedigrees are more than hobby pieces; they're long-term investments.
With both legends maintaining strong market presence-Brady for his Hall of Fame-caliber legacy, and Mahomes for his current dominance-there's little doubt that their cards will continue to rise in value and allure.