Market outlook
Stable Outlook 7/10
The base card has high supply and moderate demand, keeping prices flat. However, the red parallel and high-grade copies show slow appreciation due to scarcity and collector interest in premium NFL rookies.
Next months. Next 3–6 months: Base prices remain stable at $1.27–$5.01; red parallel may see slight increase to $40–$55 if NFL performance improves.
Long term. 1–3 years: Base card likely stable; red parallel and high-grade copies could rise to $60–$80 if Jones establishes himself as a franchise QB or wins awards.
History
Mac Jones is a professional American football quarterback who was selected by the New England Patriots in the first round (24th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Alabama, where he won the 2020 National Championship and was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year. His rookie card (#109) in the 2021 Panini Absolute set marks his entry into the NFL and is significant for collectors as it represents the start of his professional career with a historically successful franchise.
This card was first released in late 2021 as part of the 2021 Panini Absolute Football set, distributed by Panini America across hobby and retail markets in the United States.
- Mac Jones was the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, chosen by the New England Patriots.
- The card is his official rookie card (RC) in the Panini Absolute set, a premium product known for high-quality inserts and parallels.
- A red foil parallel of this card (#109 Red) is a limited SSP (Short Printed) variant with higher collector value, as seen in recent sales up to $49.99 for graded 10 copies.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Rare
- Print run
- High
- First printed in
- 2021 Panini Absolute Football
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- High
- Base card is high-print, but the red foil parallel is SSP (Short Printed), limited to ~100–200 copies.
- High-grade (graded 10) copies are scarce due to the card's glossy finish and fragility, reducing the number of perfect examples.
- Base retail version is abundant, while hobby spectrum is moderately limited.
Collector notes
Condition. Key flaws include off-centering (common in rookie cards), edge wear, and surface scratches. The red foil parallel is particularly prone to creasing and color fading. Check for print lines and gloss consistency, especially on the holographic kaleidoscope elements.
Storage. Store in a rigid top loader with a penny sleeve, kept in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight. For graded copies, use protective display cases with UV protection. Avoid humidity and temperature extremes to prevent warping or discoloration.
Authenticity. Fakes often have incorrect print lines, low-quality holography, or inconsistent border colors. Authentic cards from Panini Absolute have a distinct glossy finish and precise laser-cut edges. Verify the card number (#109) and set logo against official Panini references. Use third-party authentication (graded, graded, graded) for high-value copies.
Sources: sportscardspro.com, sportscardinvestor.com, poshmark.com, sportlots.com, sportsmemorabilia.com