Michael Irvin
Wide Receiver · Dallas Cowboys
Playoff First & Ten ##10
Year & Era
1997 — Junk Wax / Early Modern Era
Card Type
Base Card
Grade
Raw — appears Good (around 3 to 4)
Rarity
Common; part of a high-production retail/hobby release from the late 90s.
Overall Assessment
A classic 1990s representative of a Hall of Fame legend. While it holds sentimental and historical value for a Cowboys fan, its physical condition limits its financial upside. Notable for its emerald green aesthetics and the peak of 'The Playmaker's' fame.
Condition Grade
Raw — appears Good (around 3 to 4)
Centering Assessment
Front centering is notably off-center, favoring the left side (approx 65/35).
Surface Condition
Significant surface wear is visible, including scratching, scuffing, and possible moisture-related warping observed at the bottom edge.
Corner Condition
Corners show moderate to heavy wear. The bottom-left and bottom-right corners exhibit significant rounding and white showing through the green ink.
Edge Condition
Edges show visible chipping and whitening, particularly along the bottom edge where the card stock appears slightly delaminated or soft.
Print Quality
Standard 1990s card stock with a matte-finish green design. The resolution of the player image is average for the period.
Estimated Value
$0.50 - $2.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is in below-average condition compared to 'Mint' examples found in many collections/sets, primarily due to corner and edge wear.
Authentication Tips
Check for the distinct textured logo of 'Playoff' and the specific card stock thickness. Counterfeits of this specific base card are extremely rare as the value does not justify replication.
Grading Recommendation
Grading is not recommended. The cost of grading (approx. $15-$25) significantly exceeds the market value of the card, and the current condition would result in a low technical grade.
Red Flags
No signs of alteration, but there is significant natural wear and possible 'silvering' or chipping common to oversight-heavy green borders.
Provenance Notes
Commonly found in 1997 Playoff retail packs and hobby boxes. Distributed widely during the height of the Cowboys' popularity.
Historical Context
Michael Irvin was a centerpiece of the 1990s Cowboys dynasty, winning three Super Bowls. This card was released toward the final years of his career.
Market Trends
Michael Irvin cards remain stable due to his Hall of Fame status and 'The Playmaker' legacy, though base cards from this era have high supply and low price volatility.
Investment Potential
Low. Base cards from the late 90s without low serial numbering or autographs rarely appreciate significantly.
Similar Cards
1997 Topps Michael Irvin, 1997 Pinnacle Michael Irvin, and other members of the Cowboys 'Triplets' like Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith in this set.
Display & Preservation
Recommend a PVC-free penny sleeve and a standard top loader to prevent further edge chipping and corner rounding.
Interesting Facts
The 'First & Ten' set was known for its distinctly football-oriented themed parallels, though this is the standard base version.