The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has grown immensely over the years, and its trading card market has mirrored that growth. The UFC Round 1 collection, released in 2009, holds a special place in the hearts of many fans and collectors. Not only was this the first UFC card set, but it also included some iconic fighters, making it a valuable asset in the trading card world.
As of 2023, some cards in the 2009 UFC Round 1 set have appreciated significantly. Based on sales data, the following are some of the standout cards from this set.
The Best 2009 Topps UFC Round 1 Cards
Here is the criteria we used to come up with our list:
- Values: We’ve factored in for some of the most valuable 2009 Topps UFC Round 1 cards on the market
- Rarity: Rarity will always have a role to play in terms of interest and pricing
- Popularity and branding: How popular is the brand, or the set itself?
- Rookie cards: UFC rookie cards are always going to sell for a premium, as the first ever cards to feature a fighter
- Potential ROI: Arguably most important, can you expect a decent potential ROI if it’s a long-term hold?
1. 2009 UFC Round 1 Georges St-Pierre #17 (eBay)
Georges St-Pierre, also known as GSP, is a UFC legend. His card from the 2009 set has seen consistent price increases since its release. In 2022, a PSA 10 version of this card sold for over $400, more than quadrupling its original value. You’ll also be able to find a signed version in the set, using the same image of GSP vs Parisyan.
Check prices of 2009 UFC Round 1 Georges St-Pierre card on eBay
2. 2009 UFC Round 1 Anderson Silva #46 (eBay)
The Spider’s card is one of the most sought after in the UFC Round 1 collection. Silva was nearly at the peak of his career in 2009, and collectors recognize the value this card holds. A PSA 10 version recently fetched upwards of $500 at auction.
Check prices of 2009 UFC Round 1 Anderson Silva card on eBay
3. 2009 UFC Round 1 Brock Lesnar #81 (eBay)
Brock Lesnar’s card is another standout from the 2009 UFC Round 1 set. He has an enormous fan base, not only from his UFC career but also from his wrestling days. This crossover appeal has driven the price of his card up, with a PSA 10 version selling for around $350 in 2022.
Check prices of 2009 UFC Round 1 Brock Lesnar card on eBay
4. 2009 UFC Round 1 Nate Diaz #66 (eBay)
Nate Diaz, another iconic UFC fighter, has a card that collectors highly value in the collection. His contributions to the UFC and his popularity in the sport make his card a significant part of this set. A PSA 10 card sold for about $300 in 2022.
Check prices of 2009 UFC Round 1 Nate Diaz card on eBay
Card Aesthetics and Quality
Another notable aspect of the 2009 UFC Round 1 set that contributes to its popularity among collectors is the card aesthetics and quality. This set is well-known for its solid build and striking visual design. The cards feature a full-color action shot of the fighter set against a unique, refracted background that highlights the fighter’s dynamic motion. This design choice helped distinguish UFC cards from others in the sports card market, attracting a new audience to the hobby.
Each card also includes a comprehensive biography and career stats on the reverse side. These details offer fans and collectors a deeper insight into each fighter’s career trajectory, adding a layer of context and narrative that enhances the card’s overall appeal. The quality and attention to detail in these cards are reflected in their market value. Collectors have shown a willingness to pay premium prices for cards in mint condition that embody these high aesthetic and manufacturing standards.
The Impact of Market Trends and Future Outlook
Market trends also play a significant role in the value of the 2009 UFC Round 1 cards. Over the last decade, there has been a significant increase in the interest and value of sports cards in general. This surge has been driven by a number of factors, including nostalgia, the increased visibility of sports celebrities, and the overall growth in the sports industry. In the case of UFC, its rise in mainstream popularity and increasing global fan base have directly impacted the value of UFC trading cards.
Moving forward, it’s expected that the interest in UFC and its trading cards will continue to rise. As the sport becomes more global, and as new stars emerge, collectors will likely continue to seek out cards from the inaugural 2009 UFC Round 1 set. It represents not only a piece of UFC history but also a sound investment opportunity. These factors contribute to the sustained demand and high market prices for these cards.
It’s also worth noting the “Autograph” and “Fight Mat Relic” subsets within the 2009 UFC Round 1 set. These subsets included autographs and pieces of the mat from specific fights, which adds an extra layer of desirability and value for collectors. Top-tier cards from these subsets, particularly those from fighters like GSP, Silva, and Jones, can sell for several times the price of their base counterparts.
In conclusion, the 2009 UFC Round 1 trading card set is a treasure trove for collectors, particularly those who appreciate the history and evolution of UFC. Its significance as the first UFC card set and the high-profile fighters it features make it a standout. As the UFC continues to grow in popularity, it’s reasonable to expect that these cards will maintain or potentially increase in value over time.
For further information, card reviews, and detailed analysis of the UFC card market, continue following Card Review Club. We provide comprehensive insights that help both seasoned collectors and newcomers navigate the fascinating world of card collecting.