Top 10 Affordable Australian Sports Cards for Long-Term Investing

If you're looking to invest in sports cards, Australian athletes offer some fantastic opportunities. By purchasing raw cards between $15-$50, grading them, and selling at a higher price, collectors can see significant returns. Here’s our Top 10 list of Australian sports cards with long-term investment potential!

1. Nick Daicos (AFL) – 2022 Select Optimum Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$30-$60

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $150+

• Why Invest? One of the most hyped young AFL players, with a strong following and massive upside. Collingwood fans love their collectibles!

2. Josh Giddey (NBA) – 2021-22 Panini Prizm Rookie Card (Silver or Base)

• Raw Price: ~$20-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $150+ (Silver); ~$80+ (Base)

• Why Invest? A young Australian NBA star with international appeal, playing for a rising Oklahoma City Thunder team.

3. Sam Walsh (AFL) – 2019 Select Dominance Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$20-$45

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $120+

• Why Invest? Carlton's future Brownlow Medal contender, already a fan favorite.

4. Shane Warne (Cricket) – 1993 Futera Cricket Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$40-$70

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $200+

• Why Invest? A cricketing legend, and vintage cricket cards are on the rise in value.

5. Patty Mills (NBA) – 2009-10 Panini Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$15-$40

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $120+

• Why Invest? One of Australia’s greatest basketball players, a key part of the Boomers’ Olympic success.

6. Jason Horne-Francis (AFL) – 2022 Select Optimum Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$25-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $120+

• Why Invest? A young talent with high upside, expected to be a future AFL star.

7. Marnus Labuschagne (Cricket) – 2018 Tap’N’Play Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$25-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $150+

• Why Invest? One of Australia’s best batsmen, with long-term potential in cricket history.

8. Harley Reid (AFL) – 2024 Select Prestige Rookie Card (Coming Soon!)

• Raw Price: ~$20-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: TBD (Potentially $150+)

• Why Invest? Touted as a generational AFL talent, with huge early hype.

9. Tim Tszyu (Boxing) – 2021 Topps NOW Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$30-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $150+

• Why Invest? Boxing cards are undervalued, and Tszyu has global potential.

10. Nathan Buckley (AFL) – 1994 Select Sensation Rookie Card

• Raw Price: ~$30-$50

• Graded PSA 10 Value: $150+

• Why Invest? A Collingwood legend, Brownlow winner, and high collector demand.

How to Maximize Your Card Investment

1. Buy the Best Raw Cards

Look for well-centered cards with sharp corners and no surface issues.

2. Choose the Right Grading Service

PSA, SGC, and CGA are the best options for maximizing resale value.

3. Hold for the Right Moment

Selling during key events like Brownlow wins, championships, or international recognition increases profit potential.

4. Diversify Your Collection

AFL, NBA, and cricket all have different market cycles—spread your investments to minimize risk.

5. Where to Buy?

• eBay Australia

• Facebook Marketplace

• Local Card Shops & Shows

• Online Card Retailers

Final Thoughts

The Australian sports card market is growing, and these Top 10 picks provide strong potential for long-term investment. Whether you’re an AFL, NBA, or cricket fan, there are great opportunities to buy raw, grade, and flip for profit.

👉 Looking to get your cards graded? Check out our services at GradedCardsAustralia.com.au! 🚀