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As legendary soccer stars go, Diego Maradona (1968-2020) was arguably only rivaled by the likes of Pele in terms of talent and worldwide acclaim.
Buy Diego Maradona Rookie Cards on eBay
He won the World Cup in 1986 and spent most of his career with Argentinos Juniors and Napoli.
Here’s a rundown with three of the best Diego Maradona rookie cards that money can buy and investment advice for the long-term.
Maradona’s earliest options were released in the late 1970s, so you’re not spoiled for choice if you’re looking for RC options.
Related: Best Lionel Messi Rookie Cards To Buy Now
However, three items of memorabilia from the era do manage to stand out from the crowd.
1978 Diego Maradona Crack Campeonato Mundial #24
Despite missing out on a spot in the 1978 World Cup Finals squad, Maradona was included in the Figurita Crack Mundial sticker set from that year.
(He only just missed out as their chain-smoking coach Cesar Luis Menotti cited his lack of international experience, despite having already played two full seasons with Argentinos Juniors.)
Given that it’s an Argentinean version of a sticker released in the late 1970s, it’s exceptionally tough to find in the present day.
It shows the player in a profile shot that is skewed sideways, set against a bright pink background.
His name and an Argentina flag fill the space at the bottom.
1979 Diego Maradona Panini Calciatori Soccer #312
The 1979-80 Panini Calciatori release also focuses on Maradona’s international exploits.
It’s another sticker, which has a simple profile image of the young superstar forward.
He opted for a serious expression for this photo, and he’s pictured in a vintage blue and white Argentina kit.
[irp posts=”19896″ name=”Best 7 Soccer Cards to Invest in 2021 (Insane ROI)”]As an Italian release, it’s more plentiful than the sticker seen above and is often easier to find at higher grades.
Regardless, there’s only one gem mint version according to the PSA Registry, which sold for a fee of $555,960 in April 2021.
As you may have guessed, that’s a new record for a soccer card.
1977 Diego Maradona Futbol RC #11
Lastly, his 1977 Futbol Discs collectible is seen as an RC, and will sell for exceptionally high prices if you manage to snag one of the few versions that are still in decent shape.
As the name implies, it comes in a circle rather than the traditional rectangle cards we’re used to.
Maradona is pictured in an Argentinos Juniors kit on the front, while the reverse has been left blank.
“He was the youngest player in the history of the Argentine Primera División when he made his debut at the age of 15 in October 1976.”
This is the closest you’ll get in terms of early Maradona merch.
Values
The most expensive Diego Maradona rookie card is the 1979 Panini Calciatori Stickers Diego Maradona Rookie Card #312.
If you are looking to purchase a Diego Maradona soccer card and want help please email advice@goldcardauctions.com and we will be more than happy to chat.
Checklist
- 1977 Futbol Diego Maradona RC #11
- 1978 Crack Campeonato Mundial Diego Maradona RC #24
- 1978 Argentina Campeon Libro De Estampas Diego Maradona RC
- 1979 Panini Calciatori Soccer Diego Maradona RC #312
- 1979 Industria Argentina Super Futbol Diego Maradona RC #1
- 1979 Argentina Industria Diego Maradona RC #58
- 1979 Industria Argentina Super Futbol Diego Maradona RC #22
- 1979 Panini Calciatori Paper Pack Diego Maradona RC
Buyers Rating and Investment Outlook
Before Lionel Messi, there was Maradona. A footballing wizard with unparalleled talent, but one who leaned towards the dark arts.
Maradona Rookie Card Investment Rating: Buy (4.6 out of 5)
Ownership Disclosure: None
Best Maradona Rookie Card: 1979 Diego Maradona Panini Calciatori Soccer RC #312 (Buy on eBay)
His battle with drug abuse was well-publicized, with everything from links to organized crime to narrowly avoiding a prison sentence in 1998.
Despite his difficulties, Maradona is well remembered for his exploits, both on and off the pitch.
A pair of stickers and a ‘Futbol Disc’ might not seem like the most incredible collection, but it’s worth noticing when a copy sells for half a million.
Given his tragic passing in 2020, the market would always readjust to the news.
Few expected prices to explode in the manner that they have, but it shows that Maradona’s legacy will continue to live on in the future.