Neal Anderson
Running Back · Chicago Bears
Score Football ##252
Year & Era
1990 — Junk Wax Era
Card Type
Base Veteran Card
Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent to Near-Mint (EX-MT 6)
Rarity
Common. This card was mass-produced during the height of the Junk Wax Era with millions of copies entering the market.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of 1990s football nostalgia. While not financially valuable, it represents a key era of Chicago Bears history and a very talented player. Ideal for team collectors or set builders.
Condition Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent to Near-Mint (EX-MT 6)
Centering Assessment
Front: Approximately 60/40 Top-to-Bottom and 55/45 Left-to-Right. The bottom border appears thicker than the top.
Surface Condition
Fairly clean with a noticeable light glare on the left side of the player image. Some minor surface scuffing or printing dots common for this year's stock may be present.
Corner Condition
The bottom left and bottom right corners show slight softening/whitening. The top right corner appears relatively sharp in the photograph.
Edge Condition
Minor chipping is visible along the side edges, which is typical for the blue/white border contrast of the 1990 Score design.
Print Quality
Standard for 1990 Score. The registration is decent, but the image clarity is somewhat soft compared to modern high-definition printing.
Estimated Value
$0.25 - $1.00 (Raw); Graded PSA 10 copies may reach $15-$25, but the cost of grading exceeds the market value for this specific copy.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy shows slightly more corner wear than high-grade 'pack fresh' specimens commonly found in unsearched bulk lots.
Authentication Tips
Authentic copies have a specific paper-stock feel and matte-like finish on the reverse. Counterfeits are virtually non-existent due to the card's low market value.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The administrative fees would significantly outweigh the market value of the finished product.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The card appears to be a genuine, naturally aged hobby specimen.
Provenance Notes
Likely sourced from a 1990 Score wax pack, cello pack, or factory set. These were sold in massive quantities at grocery stores and hobby shops in 1990.
Historical Context
Neal Anderson was the successor to the legendary Walter Payton in Chicago. He was one of the premier dual-threat backs of the late 80s/early 90s.
Market Trends
Stable/Low. Neal Anderson is respected as a 4-time Pro Bowler, but his cards do not carry the 'Hall of Fame' premium that drives long-term appreciation.
Investment Potential
Minimal. High supply and moderate player demand make this a 'collector' card rather than an investment asset.
Similar Cards
1990 Score Barry Sanders, 1990 Score Emmitt Smith Rookie Card, 1990 Topps Neal Anderson.
Display & Preservation
A standard penny sleeve and top-loader are sufficient. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the blue borders from fading over time.
Interesting Facts
The 1990 Score set is famous for featuring Bo Jackson in his shoulder pads and baseball bat; while this Anderson card is common, the set itself is a staple of early 90s collecting.