1986 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards Value
If you're a hockey card collector, chances are you've heard of the 1986 O Pee Chee set. It's one of the most sought-after sets in the hobby, thanks to its iconic design and the fact that it includes rookie cards of several all-time greats. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the world of 1986 O Pee Chee hockey cards value, examining the factors that influence prices and providing some tips for buying and selling these cards.
What Makes 1986 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards So Special?
The 1986 O Pee Chee set is notable for its vibrant design, which features a blue and pink border framing a full-color photo of the player. The card backs include biographical information, stats, and a cartoon featuring the player. The set consists of 264 cards, including 66 rookies. Some of the most notable rookies in the set include Patrick Roy, Wendel Clark, and Joe Nieuwendyk.
One of the reasons the 1986 O Pee Chee set is so popular is that it was released exclusively in Canada, making it somewhat harder to find in the United States. Additionally, the design is considered by many to be one of the most attractive and iconic in hockey card history. Finally, the set includes rookie cards of several players who went on to become NHL legends, adding to its appeal for collectors.
Factors That Influence 1986 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards Value
As with any collectible, there are several factors that can impact the value of 1986 O Pee Chee hockey cards. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Condition: As with any card, the condition is a major factor in determining value. Cards that are in mint or near-mint condition will fetch higher prices.
- Grading: Professional grading services like PSA and Beckett can provide an unbiased assessment of a card's condition, which can help increase its value. A graded card in a high grade will generally sell for more than an ungraded card.
- Rarity: Some cards in the set are more rare than others, and these will typically sell for higher prices. For example, the Patrick Roy rookie card is one of the most highly sought-after cards in the set.
- Demand: Finally, the overall demand for the 1986 O Pee Chee set will impact prices. If there are a lot of collectors looking for a certain card, the price will generally be higher.
1986 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards Value: Top Cards
Now that we know what factors influence value, let's take a look at some of the most valuable cards in the 1986 O Pee Chee set:
- Patrick Roy Rookie Card (#53): This is the most valuable card in the set, with PSA 10 versions selling for upwards of $10,000.
- Wendel Clark Rookie Card (#89): Clark was a fan favorite in Toronto, and his rookie card is highly coveted by collectors. PSA 10 versions can sell for over $1,000.
- Joe Nieuwendyk Rookie Card (#110): Nieuwendyk had a Hall of Fame career, and his rookie card is a must-have for serious collectors. PSA 10 versions can sell for over $500.
- Mario Lemieux (#107): While not a rookie card, the Lemieux card is still highly valuable thanks to his status as one of the greatest players in NHL history. PSA 10 versions can sell for over $500.
- Steve Yzerman (#49): Another all-time great, the Yzerman card is highly sought-after by collectors. PSA 10 versions can sell for over $200.
Tips for Buying and Selling 1986 O Pee Chee Hockey Cards
If you're interested in buying or selling 1986 O Pee Chee hockey cards, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Buy the best condition you can afford: As we've mentioned, condition is king when it comes to value. Don't skimp on quality just to save a few bucks.
- Get your cards graded: Professional grading can increase the value of your cards and provide peace of mind for buyers. Make sure you use a reputable grading service like PSA or Beckett.
- Check recent sales: Before buying or selling a card, do some research to see what similar cards have recently sold for. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of price.
- Sell on eBay: eBay is a great platform for buying and selling hockey cards. Make sure you include plenty of high-quality photos and a detailed description of the card.
Conclusion
The 1986 O Pee Chee set is one of the most beloved and valuable hockey card sets of all time. Its vibrant design, inclusion of several key rookies, and relative rarity have all contributed to its enduring popularity among collectors. If you're interested in collecting or investing in hockey cards, give the 1986 O Pee Chee set a closer look—you might just find a gem that will appreciate in value over time.