2017 Score Football Cards: A Collector's Guide

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey football card fanatics! Let's dive deep into the world of 2017 Score football cards. This set holds a special place in many collectors' hearts, and for good reason. It was a year filled with exciting rookies, established stars, and a design that's both classic and clean. If you're new to the hobby or a seasoned veteran, understanding the 2017 Score set is a must. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from the base cards to the chase cards, and the valuable rookies you should be looking for. So, grab your coffee (or your favorite energy drink), and let's get started. We'll explore the ins and outs, giving you a solid foundation for building your collection or just learning more about this fantastic set. Get ready to level up your football card knowledge! This year’s set is full of great players and is an absolute must-have for all collectors.

The Design and Layout: A Classic Look

One of the first things you'll notice about the 2017 Score football cards is their straightforward and appealing design. Score always had a knack for creating cards that are both aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate, and this set is no exception. The base card design is clean and simple. The player's name, team, and position are clearly displayed, making it easy to identify the player. The card fronts often feature action shots, capturing the excitement of the game. The backs provide basic stats and a short player biography, offering a quick glimpse into the player's career. The overall feel is classic Score, emphasizing the players and the sport. This approach made the cards popular for both kids and adults, and they are still highly sought after even today. The simple designs meant the focus was always on the player. This allowed for an enjoyable experience for the collectors. This design philosophy has always been the cornerstone of the Score brand.

The choice of colors is also noteworthy. The 2017 Score football cards use a vibrant and eye-catching color palette. The cards are not overly cluttered, allowing the player's image to stand out. The fonts are easy to read. This makes it easy for collectors to quickly sort through their cards. This design element ensured that the cards were easy to read and understand. This simple design ensures that the cards are accessible and understandable for collectors of all ages. This simple design means it's still popular today. The layout is perfect for collectors wanting a simple but enjoyable card.

Key Rookies and Their Significance

Now, let's talk about the heart and soul of any modern football card set: the rookies! The 2017 Score football cards feature a fantastic rookie class, making the set highly desirable for collectors. These rookies went on to become stars, and their cards are some of the most valuable in the set. You'll want to keep an eye out for them as you build your collection. The rookies are the cornerstone of any great football card collection, and the rookies in this set make it a must-have.

Key Rookies to Watch:

  • Patrick Mahomes: This guy is the face of the NFL. His rookie cards in this set are highly sought after. Finding a Mahomes rookie in good condition is like striking gold. His cards are highly valuable due to his impact on the game. His presence alone makes this set valuable.
  • Deshaun Watson: A dynamic quarterback who quickly made a name for himself. His rookie cards are also very valuable. Any cards from Watson are highly sought after by collectors.
  • Christian McCaffrey: A versatile running back who can do it all. His rookie cards are also valuable and popular among collectors. The rookie cards are valuable because of how many games he has played.

These players, and many others, had an immediate impact on the NFL. Their rookie cards from the 2017 Score set are a great investment for any collector. These players are the future of the NFL. Their cards are extremely popular and will continue to be. The value of these cards will continue to increase.

Inserts and Parallel Cards: Adding Rarity and Value

Beyond the base cards, the 2017 Score football cards set features a variety of inserts and parallel cards that add extra layers of excitement and value. These special cards are often more challenging to find, making them highly prized by collectors. They are the treasures that make opening packs so much fun. Let’s break down some of the key insert sets and parallel variations you should look for.

Popular Inserts:

  • Rookie of the Year: These cards highlight the top rookies from the 2016 season. They are always popular with collectors. These cards celebrate the impact these rookies had on the sport.
  • All-Pro: Featuring the top players in the league. These cards showcase the best of the best. They are essential for any serious collector of this set.
  • Highlights: Capturing memorable moments from the previous season. These inserts are a visual treat for fans and collectors. These cards showcase the exciting plays from the previous season.

Parallel Cards:

Parallel cards are variations of the base cards with different colors or finishes. They are generally produced in limited quantities, making them more valuable than the base cards. Some of the common parallels include:

  • Gold: A gold-colored version of the base card.
  • Red: A red-colored version of the base card.
  • Blue: A blue-colored version of the base card.

These parallel cards, along with the inserts, add excitement to the set. Finding these cards is part of the thrill of collecting. They are the keys to a truly amazing collection. The rarity of these cards adds significant value to the set. Keep an eye out for these special cards.

Collecting Tips and Strategies

Ready to start building your 2017 Score football cards collection? Here are some tips to help you along the way. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, these strategies will enhance your experience. These tips will help you navigate the world of collecting and make the most of your investment. It’s all about having fun and enjoying the journey of building your collection.

  1. Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend. This will help you avoid overspending. Be realistic about your budget.
  2. Focus on Key Rookies: Prioritize the rookies of star players. Their cards often increase in value over time. They are the keys to a successful collection.
  3. Buy Singles: Buying individual cards can be more cost-effective than buying packs. Especially if you're looking for specific players or inserts. Buying singles gives you the control you need.
  4. Check Card Conditions: Always examine the condition of the cards. Cards in mint condition are more valuable. Card condition is critical to the value.
  5. Use Online Resources: Utilize online price guides and forums. These resources provide valuable information. Use these resources to get the most value for your collection.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to building an amazing 2017 Score football card collection. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process.

Where to Buy 2017 Score Football Cards

So, where do you find these 2017 Score football cards? There are several options available, from local card shops to online marketplaces. Here's a breakdown of the best places to find your cards. This information will help you find the best cards available. Let’s get you started on your collecting journey.

  • Local Card Shops: These shops are a great place to start. They often have a selection of packs, boxes, and single cards. They also provide a sense of community.
  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, COMC, and Sportlots are excellent sources for buying and selling cards. You can find a huge selection of cards from various sellers.
  • Card Shows: Attending card shows can be a great way to find deals and meet other collectors. You can find many rare cards at these shows.
  • Retail Stores: Sometimes, you can find packs or boxes at major retailers. They are available, but their selection is usually limited.

Each option has its pros and cons. It’s up to you to find the best source for your collection. Happy hunting, and enjoy the thrill of the chase!

Grading and Protecting Your Cards

Protecting and grading your 2017 Score football cards is crucial to preserving their value and ensuring their longevity. Grading involves having a professional service assess the condition of your cards. This adds value and authenticity. Proper storage and handling are just as important. Let’s dive into both of these areas.

Grading Your Cards:

Grading services, like PSA and Beckett, evaluate cards based on their condition. The cards are given a grade, which influences their value. A high grade can significantly increase the value of a card. The grading process involves meticulous inspection. Cards are graded based on their centering, corners, edges, and surface. It's a great way to protect your cards.

Protecting Your Cards:

Once graded, cards are placed in protective holders. However, if your cards are not graded, you should still take steps to protect them. Use the following steps to ensure that your cards are always protected:

  1. Penny Sleeves: Place your cards in penny sleeves before placing them in top loaders.
  2. Top Loaders: Use top loaders to provide rigid protection for the cards.
  3. Card Savers: For valuable cards, consider using card savers. Card savers are designed for professional grading.
  4. Storage Boxes: Store your cards in card storage boxes. Protect your cards from dust and sunlight.

These practices will help preserve your cards for years to come. Protecting your investment is essential. Careful handling and storage are crucial to protecting your collection.

The Legacy of 2017 Score: Why It's Still Relevant

The 2017 Score football cards set continues to be popular. This is because of the many factors discussed above. It's a set that offers something for every collector. Here’s why it’s still relevant today.

  • Rookie Class: The strong rookie class ensures the continued interest in the set. The rookies make the set timeless.
  • Design and Nostalgia: The classic Score design appeals to many collectors. It brings back memories of the golden age of football cards.
  • Accessibility: The set is still relatively affordable. This makes it a great choice for new collectors. The cards are reasonably priced.
  • Investment Potential: The value of the key rookie cards will likely continue to grow. This set makes a great investment.

As the players from this set continue to make an impact on the NFL, the value of these cards will remain high. It’s a set that is sure to remain a favorite for many years to come. The 2017 Score football cards set is an excellent example of how a well-designed set can stand the test of time. It's a set that is still very popular among collectors. The set's appeal continues to grow with each passing season. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, the 2017 Score set is a must-have.