Deebo Samuel
Wide Receiver / "Wide Back" · San Francisco 49ers
Panini Illusions ##52
Year & Era
2021 — Current/Chrome Era
Card Type
Base Veteran Card (Foil/Holographic)
Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent to Near Mint (EX-NM 6.5 - 7.5)
Rarity
Common base card; high production volume typical of Panini retail and hobby products.
Overall Assessment
A visually appealing base card of a star player, though its condition issues (edge/corner wear) and commonality make it a low-value 'common'.
Condition Grade
Raw — Appears Excellent to Near Mint (EX-NM 6.5 - 7.5)
Centering Assessment
Front: Approx. 60/40 Top-to-Bottom, 50/50 Left-to-Right based on the design borders.
Surface Condition
Near Mint; shows standard holographic sheen but subject to fingerprinting and light surface scratches common with foil stock.
Corner Condition
The bottom right corner shows visible white chipping or softening (ding); other corners appear standard for unslabbed modern cards.
Edge Condition
Significant chipping/silvering visible on the bottom and right edges, likely due to factory cutting or improper storage.
Print Quality
Standard Panini Illusions quality; defined by a mix of acetate and foil-boarding. The holographic effect is vibrant and well-applied.
Estimated Value
Raw: $0.50 – $2.00; Graded (PSA 10): $20 - $35. Value is currently minimal as a base card.
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy is slightly below average due to the visible white chipping on the bottom right edge/corner compared to pack-fresh GEM MINT copies.
Authentication Tips
Check for the 'I' Illusions logo foil stamping and the unique reflective properties of the acetate-style card stock which is difficult to replicate.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of the card given the visible edge and corner wear.
Red Flags
No significant red flags regarding authenticity; the card shows natural wear consistent with basic handling.
Provenance Notes
Likely pulled from a 2021 Panini Illusions retail blaster box or hobby pack; part of a widely distributed set.
Historical Context
From the 2021 season where Samuel emerged as an All-Pro first-teamer, redefining the wide receiver position with a record-breaking eight rushing touchdowns.
Market Trends
Stable to slightly declining for base cards as collectors pivot toward numbered parallels and autographs of Samuel.
Investment Potential
Low; as a base card, it serves better as a personal collection item for 49ers fans rather than a financial investment.
Similar Cards
2021 Panini Prizm Deebo Samuel, 2021 Donruss Optic Deebo Samuel, 2021 Illusions George Kittle.
Display & Preservation
Should be placed in a penny sleeve and top loader immediately to prevent further edge chipping and surface scratching.
Interesting Facts
The Illusions set is known for its dual-image design, showcasing a stylized close-up alongside an action shot of the player.