2020 Panini Select Football: Your Ultimate Checklist!

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey football card fanatics! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of the 2020 Panini Select Football release? This year's set was a hot commodity, and for good reason! Packed with stunning designs, incredible parallels, and the always-coveted Rookie Cards, 2020 Select is a must-have for any collector. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know: the base set, the different levels of parallels, the popular inserts, and, most importantly, the checklist! So, grab your coffee, your favorite trading card sleeves, and let's get started!

Why 2020 Panini Select Football Still Matters

Why should you even care about a set from 2020, you ask? Well, 2020 Panini Select Football was a significant release for several key reasons. Firstly, it featured a dynamite rookie class, including names like Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and Tua Tagovailoa. These players have become franchise cornerstones, making their rookie cards highly sought after. Secondly, the Select brand is known for its premium feel and unique design. The vibrant colors, the on-card autographs (in some cases), and the different tiers of cards all contribute to its appeal. Finally, the availability of these cards, especially the lower-tier parallels, offers great potential for collectors of all budgets. The different levels of parallels, from the base set to the ultra-rare Gold Prizm and Black Prizm versions, provide collectors with a wide range of options to chase. The set's value and collectibility continue to hold strong even years after its release, with certain cards, especially those of the top rookies, commanding considerable prices on the secondary market. If you are into making money and like trading cards then this is a good product to pick up. For those looking to invest in cards then it is also important.

The Allure of Rookie Cards and the 2020 Class

The 2020 rookie class was loaded with talent, making the rookie cards in 2020 Panini Select Football some of the most desirable cards of the year. The anticipation surrounding players like Joe Burrow, the Heisman Trophy winner who was drafted first overall, and Justin Herbert, who had an outstanding rookie season, drove collectors wild. Besides, Tua Tagovailoa, CeeDee Lamb, and Jonathan Taylor added even more star power to the class. The prices on the rookie cards of these players have fluctuated based on their on-field performance and overall popularity, making it a dynamic market for collectors. The rookie cards are a must-have for any serious collector of the 2020 Panini Select set. They are the heart of the set, representing the future stars of the NFL. Their popularity drives demand, and the availability of rookie cards in various parallels means collectors have many options to collect their favorite players.

Beyond Rookies: Veteran Players and Inserts

While the rookie cards are the main attraction, 2020 Panini Select Football also features a strong selection of veteran players. The base set includes established stars and key players across all the NFL teams, offering collectors the chance to find cards of their favorite veterans. Furthermore, the set includes several insert sets, such as Field Level, Concourse, and Premier Level, which add variety and collectability. These inserts showcase different aspects of the players, from action shots to unique designs. The Field Level inserts are particularly attractive due to their unique design and scarcity. The presence of these insert sets elevates the overall appeal of the set, offering collectors more to chase. Veteran cards and inserts provide a well-rounded collecting experience, balancing the excitement of rookie chases with the familiar faces of established stars.

Navigating the 2020 Panini Select Football Checklist

Alright, guys, now comes the good part – the checklist! Knowing what's in the set is crucial for any collector. The base set of the 2020 Panini Select Football release is spread across three different levels: Concourse, Premier Level, and Field Level. Each level has its own unique design, and the rarity increases as you go up. Beyond the base cards, the parallels are where things get really interesting. There is a huge range of parallels in 2020 Panini Select Football, each with a different print run and value. The most common parallels include Silver Prizm and the various levels of Prizm parallels, which include a rainbow of colors, with the rarer ones being more desirable. Knowing the print runs and rarity of each parallel is key for collectors looking to complete the set or invest in specific cards. The checklist is your map to navigating this exciting set, so let's dig into it!

Base Set Breakdown

The base set includes the following:

  • Concourse: This is the most common level, with a wider distribution, making it the most affordable. It still has an awesome design and showcases a range of players.
  • Premier Level: A step up in rarity and design compared to Concourse. These cards are slightly more difficult to find and often feature premium photographs.
  • Field Level: This is the highest level of the base set, meaning these cards are the hardest to find. The designs are unique, and these cards are highly coveted by collectors. The print run is much lower compared to the Concourse and Premier levels.

Parallels Galore!

The parallels are where 2020 Panini Select Football really shines. Here's a breakdown of the most common and sought-after parallels:

  • Silver Prizm: This is the most common parallel and the easiest to find. Still a great-looking card, with a shiny silver finish.
  • Various Prizm Colors: You'll find a rainbow of Prizm parallels, including Blue, Red, Orange, and many more. The rarer colors (like Gold, Black, and Tie-Dye) are the ones that command the highest prices.
  • Die-Cut Parallels: These parallels have unique die-cut designs, adding another level of complexity and collectability. They are often more difficult to find than standard parallels. The die-cut variations can come in many colors, so keep your eyes peeled.

Insert Sets to Watch Out For

2020 Panini Select Football also features a variety of insert sets. Here are the most popular ones:

  • Field Level: These inserts have a distinct design that sets them apart from the base cards, making them attractive to collectors.
  • Concourse: Another great set with a unique visual appeal. These inserts give collectors more cards to chase.
  • Premier Level: These inserts are usually more difficult to find compared to other levels, which makes them worth the hunt.

Building Your 2020 Panini Select Collection: Tips and Strategies

So, you've got the checklist, you know what to look for, but how do you actually build your 2020 Panini Select Football collection? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Set a Budget: Collecting can get expensive. Decide how much you're willing to spend. This will help you make informed decisions when buying packs, boxes, or singles.
  • Focus on Your Favorite Players: Don't feel like you need to collect every single card. Focus on your favorite players or teams. This makes the collecting process more enjoyable.
  • Buy Singles Wisely: Buying singles of specific cards you want can be more cost-effective than chasing them in packs. Use online marketplaces like eBay and COMC to find the cards you need.
  • Trade with Other Collectors: Trading is a great way to expand your collection without spending any money. Join online trading groups or attend local card shows to find trading partners.
  • Protect Your Cards: Invest in card sleeves, top loaders, and a binder to protect your valuable cards. This will keep them in mint condition and preserve their value.

Understanding the Grading Process

If you want to maximize the value of your cards, consider getting them graded by a professional grading service. Grading services like PSA and BGS assess the condition of your cards and assign them a grade. Higher-graded cards are more valuable. This process involves a careful inspection of the card's condition, including centering, corners, edges, and surface. A card's grade significantly impacts its value, so grading is a vital step for collectors looking to sell or invest in cards.

The Importance of Community

Collecting is more fun when you're part of a community. Join online forums, social media groups, and local card clubs to connect with other collectors. Sharing your collection, trading cards, and discussing the hobby with others can enhance your overall experience. The community is a great source of information, advice, and camaraderie. Attend card shows to meet other collectors and see the cards in person.

2020 Panini Select Football: Checklist Resources and Where to Find Cards

Okay, now that you're armed with the knowledge of how to collect 2020 Panini Select Football, let's talk about resources. Several websites and online tools can help you track your progress and find the cards you need. You can find detailed checklists, pricing guides, and market data, all essential for successful collecting. Staying updated with the latest news, releases, and trends in the hobby will ensure you don't miss out on any valuable finds.

Checklist Websites and Tools

Here are some websites you can use to stay organized and informed:

  • Beckett: A well-known resource for checklists, pricing guides, and player information. They also offer grading services.
  • TCDB (Trading Card Database): A community-driven database with checklists, images, and pricing information.
  • Cardboard Connection: Provides checklists, news, and release information for various trading card products.

Where to Buy 2020 Panini Select Football Cards

Now, where can you actually find these cards? Here are the best places to buy:

  • Local Card Shops: Support your local card shop! They often have a selection of packs, boxes, and singles.
  • Online Marketplaces: eBay, COMC (Check Out My Cards), and other online marketplaces are great for finding specific cards.
  • Trading Card Conventions: Card shows and conventions are a great place to buy, sell, and trade cards.
  • Retail Stores: Keep an eye out at retail stores such as Target and Walmart. The availability of these stores can be a hit or miss.

Final Thoughts: Happy Collecting!

2020 Panini Select Football is a fantastic set, full of amazing cards, great rookies, and a premium feel. Whether you are chasing the top rookie cards of Justin Herbert, Joe Burrow, and Tua Tagovailoa, or just looking to enjoy the hobby, this set has something for everyone. Remember to be patient, do your research, and most importantly, have fun! Happy collecting, guys! I hope you all find those elusive Gold Prizms!