The realm of hockey trading cards is always brimming with excitement, and the introduction of the 2016-17 Upper Deck Series 1 Hockey Cards certainly does not disappoint. For avid collectors, enthusiasts, and even casual fans, this series presents a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies of card collecting while potentially enhancing their collections. With each card encapsulating the spirit of the sport, one can’t help but ponder: which cards from this illustrious collection should you keep, and which could become the crown jewels of your collection over time?
As we delve into the highlights of this captivating series, we’ll examine desirable rookie cards, classic hits, and some intriguing inserts that might also require your attention. So, prepare yourself to embark on an adventure through ice and cardboard; what challenges lie ahead in distinguishing just which cards will help you bolster your collection and add value to your investment?
Rookie Cards: The Heartbeat of the Collection
Every serious card collector knows that rookie cards often hold the most potential; they are like seedlings that can blossom into a valuable investment, given the right cultivation. In the 2016-17 Upper Deck Series 1, one can hardly overlook the shimmering presence of Auston Matthews’ rookie card. This dynamic young player quickly became a sensation, making waves within the NHL. Collectors who secured this card early on may find themselves sitting on a small fortune as Matthews continues to impress on the rink.
Adding to the excitement, the series boasts rookie cards for other promising players, including Patrik Laine and Matthew Tkachuk. Each card offers a glimpse into the future of hockey, narrating their journey from the cusp of stardom to potentially becoming legends. The question lingers: will you take the plunge and seek out these rookie treasures? The challenge lies in discerning their potential value as the years progress. Keep these cards safeguarded, for they may symbolize burgeoning careers destined for greatness.
Memorabilia Cards: A Tangible Connection
In the realm of collectible cards, memorabilia cards serve as the bridge connecting collectors to the game itself. The 2016-17 Upper Deck Series 1 features an array of these coveted collectibles, boasting swatches from players’ jerseys stitched into the very fabric of the card. These pieces evoke nostalgia while offering a tangible connection to iconic moments within the sport. Look out for the game-worn jersey cards showcasing prominent players; they can often fetch impressive prices on the secondary market.
Noteworthy figures like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid appear within this collection, providing a sense of exclusivity to those fortunate enough to own these memorabilia cards. Their allure stems not only from the card itself but from the recollections of thrilling games and remarkable achievements. The challenge here is multifaceted: how do you properly preserve these cards while maintaining their market value? Will you take the extra steps to ensure their protection, thereby solidifying their place in the annals of your collection?
Inserts and Variations: The Unexpected Gems
Alongside standard cards, the 2016-17 Upper Deck Series 1 introduces a variety of insert cards that can elevate one’s collection from ordinary to extraordinary. Among these, the Young Guns inserts stand out as cherished additions. These cards often entice collectors, not just for their inherent value but for the thrill of the chase when seeking rare variations. Each Young Guns card encapsulates the vibrant potential of a new era in hockey, inviting enthusiasts to speculate on who among these young players might become the next big star.
Additionally, the series includes inserts such as the Canvas cards, which boast artistic renditions of players in action. These cards combine artistry with nostalgia, enchanting collectors with their visual appeal. Imagine stumbling upon a rare canvas insert of a legendary player, one that could serve as an enticing focal point in your display. Such finds raise exuberant questions: are you prepared for the exhilaration that accompanies the hunt for these insert treasures? Will you be able to resist the temptation of ‘flipping’ them for profit, or will you cherish the magic they bring to your collection?
Collector’s Dilemma: Preservation vs. Play
As exhilarating as this collectible endeavor is, one must navigate a runner’s path fraught with dilemmas. The decision to preserve cards or actively trade them creates an ongoing internal debate for collectors. Should one stash these gems away, hoping their value will appreciate? Or is there merit to showcasing your prized possessions, letting friends and fellow collectors bask in their rarity? Each card holds its own story, each meticulously chosen strategy has its consequences. Your collection is not merely a bank of assets; it reflects your passion and dedication as a hockey aficionado.
Conclusion: The Journey Ahead
As we reflect upon the highlights from the 2016-17 Upper Deck Series 1, it becomes clear that each card holds the potential to tell profound stories—stories of ambition, history, and connection to the sport we love. Whether you decide to keep the rookie cards, invest in memorabilia, or chase elusive inserts, the journey of card collecting promises to be a rewarding experience filled with both challenges and triumphs.
This collection serves not merely as a means to an end but as an avenue for camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, an invitation to share passions and stories. Are you ready to take on this exciting challenge? Can you see the potential in each card, waiting to be discovered in the realm of hockey collectibles? The adventure is yours, full of promise and exhilaration, beckoning you to make your mark in the world of hockey trading cards.
