Panini, the renowned Italian company, has been producing some of the most sought-after sports cards for decades, particularly in the realm of American football. Their innovative designs, limited editions, and strong partnerships with the NFL have helped elevate their cards to the upper echelons of the collectibles market. Over the years, some Panini football cards have sold for staggering amounts, breaking records and setting new standards for the sports card industry. This article delves into the highest-priced Panini football cards ever sold, shedding light on the players, the cards, and what makes them so valuable.

2017 Panini National Treasures Patrick Mahomes RPA (Autographed Patch Card) – $4.3 Million

Without a doubt, one of the most iconic and expensive Panini football cards to date is the 2017 Panini National Treasures Patrick Mahomes Rookie Patch Autograph (RPA) card. Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star quarterback, has become one of the most dynamic and successful players in the NFL. As of 2025, this card holds the record for the highest-priced Panini football card ever sold, fetching a mind-blowing $4.3 million in a private sale.

The Mahomes RPA features a patch from his rookie jersey, paired with an on-card autograph. The card is numbered to just 99, making it a rare and highly coveted piece. What makes this card even more special is Mahome’s incredible performance on the field, including a Super Bowl MVP award and an NFL MVP title. As he continues to break records and lead his team to victory, the value of this card is likely to keep climbing.

2017 Panini National Treasures Patrick Mahomes Shield 1/1 RPA – $4.8 Million

Patrick Mahomes dominates the upper echelons of Panini football card sales, with another one-of-a-kind card-breaking record. This card, the 2017 Panini National Treasures Mahomes Rookie Shield Patch Autograph (RPA) 1/1, was sold for an astounding $4.8 million. What makes this card even more special than the previously mentioned RPA is its status as a “1/1” – a one-of-one card, meaning no other version of this card exists.

The unique design includes a patch from Mahomes’ rookie jersey and his signature, but the most important aspect is the “shield” – an exclusive piece of memorabilia from the NFL shield logo itself, adding another layer of rarity. This card became a symbol of the intersection between sports and high-end collectibles, cementing its place as a prized item for both investors and fans alike.

2010 Panini National Treasures Tom Brady 1/1 Patch Autograph – $2.25 Million

One of the most coveted Panini football cards in the world is the 2010 National Treasures Tom Brady 1/1 Patch Autograph. Tom Brady, widely considered the greatest quarterback of all time, has always been a dominant figure in the sports card market. His 1/1 National Treasures patch autograph card sold for an impressive $2.25 million in 2021, reflecting both his legendary career and the rarity of the card.

The card showcases an exquisite patch from Brady’s game-worn jersey, paired with an autograph. The fact that it is a 1/1 makes it highly exclusive, as only one version of the card exists in the world. Brady’s seven Super Bowl titles and unmatched consistency on the field have undoubtedly contributed to the card’s sky-high price tag. As Brady’s legacy continues to grow, so too does the value of his memorabilia.

2020 Panini Prizm Joe Burrow Gold Vinyl 1/1 Rookie Card – $1.5 Million

Rookie cards are often among the most valuable in the sports card market, and Joe Burrow’s 2020 Panini Prizm Gold Vinyl 1/1 Rookie Card is no exception. This card sold for a remarkable $1.5 million in a private sale in 2021. Burrow, the quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, showed immense potential during his first season, and his card quickly became a highly sought-after collectible.

2017 Panini National Treasures Patrick Mahomes / Deshaun Watson Dual Auto 1/1 – $1.2 Million

While Mahomes is the focal point of several high-priced sales, another unique Panini football card featuring him and fellow quarterback Deshaun Watson also made waves in the collectibles market. The 2017 Panini National Treasures Dual Auto 1/1, featuring autographs from both Mahomes and Watson, sold for $1.2 million in a high-profile auction in 2021.

2013 Panini National Treasures LeBron James / Michael Jordan Dual Autograph Patch 1/1 – $900,000

While primarily known for their NFL cards, Panini also produces some basketball cards, and this 2013 National Treasures LeBron James and Michael Jordan Dual Autograph Patch 1/1 card made headlines in the world of sports collectibles. Though this card features basketball legends, its sale still represents the pinnacle of Panini’s impact on high-end sports card sales.