Topps is known for its top-notch trading cards, but they have truly outdone themselves this time with the release of the 2023-24 Topps Mercury Victor Wembanyama collection. This high-end collection is dedicated entirely to the NBA’s Rookie of the Year, Victor Wembanyama, and is priced at a whopping $8,000 per box. But fear not, because this box is loaded with treasures that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat.
Each box of the Victor Wembanyama collection contains eight cards in total, with two exclusive autographs, game-worn jersey pieces, and a variety of rare chase cards that will leave collectors itching to get their hands on them. This marks the debut of Topps Mercury, a line that is sure to set a new standard in the trading card industry.
Thanks to Topps’ exclusive autograph deal with Wembanyama, collectors can find his signature on select cards in the collection. But that’s not all – the set also includes jersey relics from Wembanyama’s rookie season, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans of the rising star. Each card is meticulously sealed in a magnetic case and wrapped in foil, exuding a sense of luxury and exclusivity.
One of the most sought-after cards in this collection is a dual autograph card featuring Wembanyama alongside none other than NBA legend LeBron James. Both players have exclusive autograph deals with Fanatics, making this card an exceptional find for any basketball card enthusiast. Additionally, collectors can hunt for the ultra-rare red parallels limited to just five copies and the one-of-a-kind SuperFractor, adding to the thrill of the chase.
In addition to the dual autograph with LeBron, the set features ten unique autograph cards, some of which include personal inscriptions from Wembanyama himself. The relic cards in the collection showcase iconic moments from Wembanyama’s rookie season, such as his NBA debut and the game where he reached his 1,000th point, adding sentimental value to these already prized possessions.
Last year, Wembanyama’s debut NBA jersey fetched an astounding $762,000 at auction, setting a precedent for the demand surrounding game-worn relics. This collection allows fans to own a piece of history from the rising star’s early career, making it a truly special investment for avid collectors.
Beyond the individual autographs and relic cards, the set also includes 20 base cards that highlight pivotal moments from Wembanyama’s rookie season. To honor his French heritage, the base short prints are printed in French and limited to just 45 copies each. Fans of Wembanyama will also appreciate the “Specimen” super short print version, limited to 15 copies, which pays homage to his “Alien” nickname. Parallels of all 20 base cards will have serial numbers capped at 99, adding a layer of rarity to these already unique cards.
In addition to the base and autograph cards, collectors can delve into ten insert designs, each offering a different perspective on Wembanyama’s journey. Notable inserts include “Cote to Coast,” a tribute to the Cote d’Azur, as well as designs like 1971 Topps Chrome and Wingspan, some of which will feature autographs for an extra special touch.
While Topps has dabbled in single-athlete sets before, the Victor Wembanyama collection is set to be their “most widely distributed single-athlete set” to date. This release marks the beginning of the Topps Mercury brand, with plans to feature future single-athlete products tied to other rising stars’ inaugural professional seasons.
Collectors can get their hands on these exclusive boxes through Topps.com, select hobby shops, and an exclusive debut on Fanatics Live one day before the official October 9 release date. With the promise of more high-end releases for upcoming star athletes, the Topps Mercury brand is set to become a staple in the world of sports trading cards.
