Ken Anderson
Quarterback · Cincinnati Bengals
Topps Football ##2
Year & Era
1982 — Late Vintage/Early Modern Era
Card Type
Base Veteran Card
Grade
6.0 (EX-MT) estimated
Rarity
Common for the era; high total population, though high-grade copies (PSA 9 or 10) are becoming increasingly scarce.
Overall Assessment
A classic early 80s veteran card of a Bengals legend. While not a high-value rarity in this condition, it is a high-quality collector's piece representing an MVP's career peak.
Condition Grade
6.0 (EX-MT) estimated
Centering Assessment
Front centering is slightly shifted to the right, approximately 60/40. Vertical centering is closer to 55/45.
Surface Condition
Appears clean with no major creases visible, though typical light print snow and age-related dulling of the white card stock are present.
Corner Condition
Visible softening on all four corners, particularly noticeable on the bottom right and top left; they lack the razor sharpness required for higher mint grades.
Edge Condition
Slightly rough edges consistent with 1980s Topps factory cuts; minor chipping visible on the right edge.
Print Quality
Average for 1982; the green "pennant" design is well-saturated, but the photo clarity is typical for the era's photography and card stock technology.
Estimated Value
$3.00 - $8.00 (Raw); $30.00 - $50.00 (PSA 8); $150.00+ (PSA 9)
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy has better centering than many 1982 Topps cards, which were notoriously plagued by miscuts, but corner wear puts it in the mid-grade category.
Authentication Tips
Verify the card stock is non-glossy, porous cardboard. Under magnification, the dots in the four-color printing process should be distinct, and the Topps logo should have crisp edges.
Grading Recommendation
SGC for vintage aesthetic appeal, or PSA if it appears to be a 9 or better. In its current condition (EX-MT), grading costs may exceed the card's value increment.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the aging of the card stock and corner wear appear authentic to the 1982 production year.
Provenance Notes
Originally distributed in wax packs, cello packs, and factory sets. This design is iconic for its 'stadium yard marker' and pennant aesthetic.
Historical Context
Following his 1981 NFL MVP season and Super Bowl XVI appearance, this card captures Anderson at the peak of his career as an elite precision passer.
Market Trends
Ken Anderson's market is stable but sees upticks whenever his name is mentioned for Vets Committee Hall of Fame consideration.
Investment Potential
Moderate long-term potential specifically for Bengals team collectors or if Anderson eventually receives a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction.
Similar Cards
1982 Topps Joe Montana (#1), 1982 Topps Lawrence Taylor Rookie (#434), 1982 Topps Ronnie Lott Rookie (#486).
Display & Preservation
Recommend a penny sleeve and a standard 35pt top loader. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the green ink on the borders from fading.
Interesting Facts
Ken Anderson was one of the first true masters of the 'West Coast Offense' under Bill Walsh (his OC in Cincinnati) before Walsh moved to San Francisco.