Cole Kmet
Tight End · Chicago Bears
2023 Panini Impeccable / Panini #Not visible
Year & Era
2023 — Modern Era
Card Type
Base Veteran Card
Grade
Raw — appears Poor to Fair due to severe top edge damage
Rarity
Common base card from a high-end product, making it relatively accessible despite Impeccable's low print runs for inserts and autographs.
Overall Assessment
A visually appealing high-end base card ruined by significant condition issues along the top edge. Ideal only for a casual fan or set builder looking for a cheap filler copy.
Condition Grade
Raw — appears Poor to Fair due to severe top edge damage
Centering Assessment
Front appears relatively well-centered left-to-right, but heavily compromised by top-heavy or miscut appearance.
Surface Condition
Surface shows typical foil sheen and pattern, but significant edge and corner chipping severely impacts overall rating.
Corner Condition
All four corners show noticeable softening, chipping, and wear, particularly the upper left and top right corners.
Edge Condition
Edges show severe chipping and peeling along the top border, heavily impacting collectibility.
Print Quality
Standard Panini Impeccable metallic foil finish with distinct patterned background waves, though impacted by poor cutting/handling.
Estimated Value
$1 - $3 raw, as the severe top-edge damage makes it a candidate for a binder or replacement rather than a grade.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is well below average compared to known examples due to the heavy chipping and damage along the top edge.
Authentication Tips
Check for official Panini branding, proper foil reflection, card stock thickness, and crisp font printing on the back.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading. The severe top-edge damage would result in a very low numerical grade (PSA 1-3), costing more in grading fees than the card is worth.
Red Flags
No signs of counterfeiting, but clear signs of heavy wear and poor storage/handling resulting in edge damage.
Provenance Notes
Pulled from a high-end 2023 Panini Impeccable football hobby box, typically distributed through card shops and online breakers.
Historical Context
Cole Kmet established himself as a reliable pass-catching tight end for the Chicago Bears, signing a significant contract extension in 2023.
Market Trends
Stable to slightly declining market for tight end base cards unless they achieve elite tier status like Travis Kelce or George Kittle.
Investment Potential
Low investment potential for a base card of a tight end in damaged condition; best held as a personal collection piece for a Bears fan.
Similar Cards
2023 Panini Prizm Cole Kmet, 2023 Donruss Cole Kmet, other Chicago Bears base cards from high-end sets.
Display & Preservation
Best kept in a penny sleeve and top loader or semi-rigid holder to prevent any further edge flaking.
Interesting Facts
Panini Impeccable is traditionally known for featuring on-card autographs, metal bars, and patches, making base cards less sought after by high-end collectors.