Market outlook
Stable Outlook 7/10
Demand remains steady due to Herbert's continued NFL success, but the card's abundant supply prevents significant price increases. The market is balanced between collectors seeking affordable rookies and investors watching graded copies.
Next months. Next 3–6 months: Prices likely to remain stable with minor fluctuations based on graded copy availability and seasonal collector demand.
Long term. 1–3 years: Expect gradual appreciation for graded 9–10 copies if Herbert maintains elite status. Base copies will remain low-value due to abundance.
History
Justin Herbert is a highly talented NFL quarterback who was selected as the 6th overall pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2020 NFL Draft. He became the Chargers' starting quarterback in his rookie season and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional size, arm strength, and playmaking ability, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
This card was first released in October 2020 as part of the 2020 Panini Donruss Optic football set, distributed nationwide through hobby shops and mass retailers in the United States.
- Justin Herbert won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2020.
- He was selected 6th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers.
- The specific card #153 in the Optic line is his official Rated Rookie card, marking his first widely distributed trading card appearance.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Common
- Print run
- Very High
- First printed in
- 2020 Panini Donruss Optic
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- Abundant
- Mass-produced base and holo versions are widely available.
- Autographed serial-numbered versions (e.g., #25/75) are scarce but not extremely rare.
- The card's high print run limits scarcity for standard versions.
Collector notes
Condition. Key flaws to check include centering, corner sharpness, edge wear, and surface gloss. The card's holographic elements (especially in Holo versions) can show scratches or clouding. Autographed versions (like #25/75) require examining ink clarity and potential smudging. Common flaws include dinged corners, especially on ungraded copies, and printing defects on the holographic layer.
Storage. Store in a rigid, non-PVC plastic sleeve (toploader) immediately after acquisition. Keep in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and hazing of holographic elements. For high-value copies, consider graded or Beckett grading and store in a climate-controlled safe or fireproof lockbox.
Authenticity. Fakes are rare for this widely distributed card but can be spotted by checking for inconsistent holographic patterns, poor print quality, or misaligned text. Authentication tips: Verify the card's serial number (if autographed) matches the official Donruss Optic checklist. Use a UV light to check for proper ink response on autographs. Reprints are uncommon but may lack the correct holographic depth or have blurry text. Always compare with verified examples from graded-graded inventory.
Sources: pristineauction.com, sportscardinvestor.com, cardladder.com, sportscardspro.com, beckett.com
