Darren Woodson
Safety (Strong Safety). Woodson was a converted linebacker who became the backbone of the Cowboys defense, a role that traditionally has lower collectibility than offensive skill positions but high respect among hardcore fans. · Dallas Cowboys
1994 Upper Deck Collector's Choice ##210
Year & Era
1994 — Junk Wax Era (Transition years). This era is marked by high production volumes, but the mid-90s saw a shift toward higher-end photography and premium stock like the Collector's Choice brand.
Card Type
Base Veteran Card
Grade
Raw — appears Excellent (EX) 5 to 6. Visual inspection shows significant top-to-bottom centering issues and likely surface wear consistent with age.
Rarity
Common. This card was mass-produced in both retail and hobby formats. It is widely available on the secondary market with a high population of surviving copies.
Overall Assessment
A clean, authentic example of a Cowboys legend from a classic mid-90s set. While it holds more sentimental and historical value than monetary value, it represents a golden era of Dallas Cowboys football.
Condition Grade
Raw — appears Excellent (EX) 5 to 6. Visual inspection shows significant top-to-bottom centering issues and likely surface wear consistent with age.
Centering Assessment
Front: Poorly centered top-to-bottom. The bottom white border is significantly thicker than the top border (approx. 70/30). Left-to-right looks relatively stable (55/45).
Surface Condition
Near Mint. The gloss on 1994 Collector's Choice is prone to minor surface scratches and dimples, though none are aggressively visible in this light. The dark background often hides minor defects.
Corner Condition
Excellent. The bottom-left and bottom-right corners show slight softening/rounding. They lack the needle-sharp points required for a Gem Mint grade.
Edge Condition
Near Mint. The edges appear relatively clean without significant chipping, which is common for white-bordered cards of this era compared to colored borders.
Print Quality
Standard for 1994. The Upper Deck logo and metallic-style 'Collector's Choice' sidebar are crisp, but the vertical centering is a known production flaw in this specific set.
Estimated Value
$0.25 - $1.00 USD. This is a common base card from a high-print era. Even in high grade (PSA 10), the value rarely exceeds $15-$20 due to the lack of scarcity.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is below average for centering compared to many known examples which, while often off-center, usually maintain better top-to-bottom balance.
Authentication Tips
Authenticity is rarely an issue for this specific card due to its low value. Check for the Upper Deck hologram on the reverse (if applicable) and ensure the card stock is white and crisp, not grainy.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading fee far exceeds the market value of the card. Only grade if for a high-end personal 'Project 10' collection.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The card appears to be an authentic, untouched original from a base set collection.
Provenance Notes
Likely sourced from a 1994 Upper Deck Collector's Choice Wax Box or Factory Set. This product was sold in major retail stores like Walmart and Target during the 1990s.
Historical Context
Darren Woodson is the Dallas Cowboys' all-time leading tackler and a 3-time Super Bowl champion. He was a cornerstone of the '90s dynasty defensive unit.
Market Trends
Stable. Darren Woodson collector interest remains steady but niche. He is often discussed as a Hall of Fame snub, and interest occasionally spikes when his name appears on HOF finalist lists.
Investment Potential
Low. As a base card from the junk wax transition era, there is no significant growth potential. It is a 'set filler' or a nostalgia piece for Cowboys fans.
Similar Cards
1992 Upper Deck Darren Woodson Rookie Card (#22), 1994 Upper Deck Base, 1994 Pinnacle Darren Woodson.
Display & Preservation
Standard penny sleeve and top loader. Ensure it is stored away from direct sunlight to prevent the dark ink on the card front from fading.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an elite safety, Woodson began his career as a linebacker at Arizona State. He is a member of the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor.