Cris Carter
Wide Receiver · Minnesota Vikings
Score (produced by Panini/Donruss at the time) ##147
Year & Era
2001 — Modern Era (Post-Junk Wax)
Card Type
Base Veteran Card
Grade
7.5 - 8.0 (Near Mint) estimated
Rarity
Common; high production volume typical of retail Score sets from the early 2000s.
Overall Assessment
A clean, attractive base card of a Hall of Fame legend. While not high in monetary value, it is a great piece of Vikings history for a team or player collector.
Condition Grade
7.5 - 8.0 (Near Mint) estimated
Centering Assessment
Front centering appears slightly heavy on the right border (approx. 40/60) and slightly bottom-heavy.
Surface Condition
Near Mint; the high-gloss finish shows some light surface dimpling and minor scratches visible under the light source.
Corner Condition
Top right corner shows slight rounding/whitening. Bottom corners appear relatively sharp for a paper-stock card.
Edge Condition
Left vertical edge shows minor white chipping typical of colored border cards from this era.
Print Quality
Standard for 2001 Score; features a high-gloss finish with the iconic purple Vikings color palette. Image focus is sharp.
Estimated Value
$1.00 - $3.00 (Raw); Graded PSA 10 copies may reach $20-$30, but grading costs usually exceed card value.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is above average for a raw card of this age, though the right-side centering is a common flaw in this specific print run.
Authentication Tips
Check for the Score logo's foil-like texture and verify card stock thickness. This card is rarely counterfeited due to its common status.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal sentimental value, as market value is low.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; card appears authentic and unaltered.
Provenance Notes
Likely sourced from a 2001 Score hobby or retail pack. These were widely distributed in big-box retailers.
Historical Context
Cris Carter is one of the greatest receivers in NFL history, known for his 'all he does is catch touchdowns' reputation. 2001 was his final season with the Vikings.
Market Trends
Stable; Cris Carter is a Hall of Famer, but his non-rookie base cards remain at price floors due to high supply.
Investment Potential
Low; this is a collector's item for fans rather than a financial investment vehicle.
Similar Cards
2001 Topps Cris Carter, 2001 Upper Deck Cris Carter, Randy Moss 2001 Score base cards.
Display & Preservation
Recommend a standard penny sleeve and top-loader to prevent further edge chipping and surface scratching.
Interesting Facts
The photo captures Carter in the classic Reebok-era Vikings uniform. By 2002, Carter would briefly join the Miami Dolphins before retiring.