The collectibles scene in the UK continues to grow from strength to strength, particularly with the launch of the brand new Fanatics store in London.
Not only are the shelves stacked with sealed boxes and world-class memorabilia, but there are hundreds of incredibly rare singles on offer too.
In this article, I’m going to explain the type of cards you can acquire, and also what makes them so rare and sought-after.
That way you can head in-store with knowledge, purpose and some cool ideas for cards you might want to add to your collection!
Numbered Cards
Firstly, there is a wide selection of ‘numbered cards’ on offer. These are cards that have specifically been printed to very limited quantities. The number is also printed somewhere on the card to identify which copy it is.
For example, one of the cards you can find in-store is a super rare Topps Chrome UEFA Champions League Mohammed Salah Specimens Card – which has been numbered 07/10. Only ten cards in this particular print-run exist, making it a very unique collectible.
We all know Mo Salah is lighting up Europe this season and leading Liverpool’s trophy charge, so now could be a great time to add the ‘Egyptian archer’ to your collection.
Let’s also turn our attention to Bukayo Saka, a player lauded with praise for his top performances and consistency these past few seasons.
In store we have a wonderful Topps Chrome UEFA Champions League Bukayo Saka Gonzalo card, which is numbered 16/50.
This is another great example of a rare card in limited supply, but not quite as short-printed as the Salah one above. This highlights the nuance in rarity, that any collector should pay attention to.
Autograph & Autograph Relic Cards
You’ll also find an exclusive selection of ‘autograph’ and ‘autograph relic’ cards in-store.
Although the former is quite self-explanatory (with the card containing an autograph of that player), cards with a combination autographs and relics might need a little more explanation…
A relic is some kind of memorabilia incorporated into the card. It might be a piece of that player’s kit. It could be commemorative coin. It could also be a piece of football boot or ball. There are many creative ways Topps incorporates pieces of history into trading cards, and a ‘relic’ is the umbrella term we use for those items.
Unnumbered Cards
Now it’s worth mentioning that a card doesn’t have to be numbered to be rare and collectible.
For example, we also have a great selection of sought-after cards, with beautiful designs featuring players like Messi, Bellingham, Haaland, Ibrahimovic and Grizemann.
Collectors love acquiring cards of the world’s top players, and that alone can make them highly desirable.
Stay in The Know
So if you want to come appreciate this huge collection of rare singles, and have an authentic Topps hobby store experience, visit us this December in Westfield, Shepherds Bush.
We also recommend you follow Topps UK on Instagram and TikTok for event schedules and details.
