When it comes to collectible sports cards, conversations can take unexpected turns. While rare Pokémon cards often dominate the spotlight—like the 1998 “Presentation Blastoise” that fetched an astonishing $360,000 in 2021—sports cards have their own fascinating allure. The world of sports memorabilia goes well beyond the baseball diamond, encompassing various sports and eras.

The Allure of Sports Cards

Baseball cards were the pioneers of this collectible craze, but today, memorabilia from every major sport is highly sought after. What makes these cards particularly interesting is that the most valuable ones often feature players in their early careers, typically after they have achieved legendary status. A prime example is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, which changed hands for a staggering $12.6 million, making it the most valuable sports card ever sold.

While it’s unlikely you’ll find a Mantle or a Babe Ruth card tucked away in your closet, you might be surprised by the gems that could be hiding there. Here are five sports cards that might be worth much more than you expect:

1. 1963 Pete Rose ‘Split’ Rookie Card

One unique card from the 1963 rookie collection features baseball legend Pete Rose among three other rookies, though only Rose has truly made a name for himself in the sport. Known as “Charlie Hustle,” Rose holds the record for the most career hits in Major League Baseball. Despite his on-field success, his gambling controversies have kept him out of the Hall of Fame.

A mint condition version of this card sold for over $700,000 in 2016. Currently, a listing on eBay has already received multiple bids, surpassing $1,350. Collectors from the 60s might just uncover this iconic card while sifting through their memorabilia.

2. 1999 Sports Illustrated for Kids Serena Williams Card

Shifting gears from baseball, the Serena Williams card from the 1999 edition of Sports Illustrated for Kids is a standout. This publication began in 1989 and included collectible cards featuring budding athletes. Williams’ rookie card has seen auction prices soar to $117,000, making it a valuable find for those who subscribed in the late 90s.

If you were a kid during this era, chances are you might have this card tucked away in a box of old magazines. The card’s accessibility means many young fans could have a potential treasure waiting to be rediscovered.

3. 2000 Tom Brady Rookie Card

Tom Brady’s rookie card is a no-brainer for collectors. Given his dramatic rise from a sixth-round draft pick to a seven-time Super Bowl champion, many Brady rookie cards are likely lingering in collections. With various card brands like Leaf, Fleer, and Topps producing Brady cards, it’s relatively easy for collectors to find them, especially those who followed the NFL in the early 2000s.

Today, Brady cards are frequently listed on eBay, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on quality. The variety of cards featuring him in different uniforms adds to the excitement for potential sellers.

4. 1996 Sports Illustrated for Kids Tiger Woods Card

Another major player in the collectible card arena is Tiger Woods, whose first card appeared in the same SI for Kids series as Serena Williams’. His 1996 card captures him in the early stages of what would become a legendary career, and copies have sold for over $41,000 at auction.

The debate continues among collectors as to whether this card or a later 2001 Upper Deck version should be considered his true rookie card—adding an intriguing layer to its value.

5. 1982 Topps Traded Cal Ripken Jr. Card

Known as “The Iron Man,” Cal Ripken Jr. is a monumental figure in baseball history, holding the record for consecutive games played. His 1982 Topps Traded card, while not a traditional rookie card, remains a collector’s item. A card in perfect condition can sell for around $5,000, while signed versions can command prices upwards of $2,500, especially if obtained at a game.

For those who grew up watching Ripken play, finding this card could be a delightful surprise, especially given its historical significance and the player’s legendary status.

As you dig through old boxes or revisit your childhood collections, keep an eye out for these valuable sports cards. You may just uncover a piece of sports history with significant worth.