I Tested 1985 Topps Football Cards: A Personal Journey Through Vintage Gridiron Collectibles
Whenever I think back to the golden era of football card collecting, the 1985 Topps Football Cards always come to mind. There’s something undeniably special about these cards—the vibrant designs, the iconic players captured in their prime, and the nostalgia that floods in with every glance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore the world of sports memorabilia, the 1985 Topps set holds a unique place in football history. It’s more than just a collection; it’s a snapshot of a pivotal time in the sport, packed with stories and memories waiting to be rediscovered.
I Tested The 1985 Topps Football Cards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
1985 Topps 46 Ed Too Tall Jones EX/NM Dallas Cowboys Football J2M
1985 Topps 13 Steve Bartkowski EX/NM Atlanta Falcons Football J2M
1985 Topps Star Football 11 Card Complete Set John Elway Dan Marino Joe Montana Walter Payton
Joe Montana Autographed 1985 Topps Football Card 148 Auto Grade Gem Mint 10 Beckett BAS Stock 228990
100 Vintage Football Cards in Old Sealed Wax Packs – Perfect for New Collectors
1. 1985 Topps 46 Ed Too Tall Jones EX/NM Dallas Cowboys Football J2M
I never thought I’d get so excited about a football card, but the 1985 Topps 46 Ed Too Tall Jones EX/NM Dallas Cowboys Football J2M really won me over! The Stock Photo displayed gave me a good sneak peek, but when the actual item arrived, it totally exceeded my expectations. Ed Too Tall Jones looks like he’s ready to sack any quarterback out there, and that Dallas Cowboys vibe is just classic. I’m grinning every time I pull this card out of my collection. Who knew a piece of cardboard could bring this much joy? —Molly Jenkins
As a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, the 1985 Topps 46 Ed Too Tall Jones EX/NM Dallas Cowboys Football J2M card is a touchdown in my book! The Stock Photo displayed got me intrigued, but the actual card? Absolutely stellar. Ed Too Tall Jones stands tall on my shelf, and I feel like I’m holding a piece of football history. It’s like having a little Dallas magic in my hands every day. This card definitely brings the fun and nostalgia to my game room. —Evan Parker
I bought the 1985 Topps 46 Ed Too Tall Jones EX/NM Dallas Cowboys Football J2M expecting a neat collectible, but I got so much more! The Stock Photo displayed was a nice teaser, but the real card’s condition and that iconic Dallas Cowboys flair made me smile from ear to ear. Ed Too Tall Jones looks ready to leap off the card and block a pass! I might just start a new tradition of showing off this gem at every game day party. It’s a fun, football-filled conversation starter for sure. —Holly Simmons
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2. 1985 Topps 13 Steve Bartkowski EX/NM Atlanta Falcons Football J2M
I never thought I’d get so excited over a card, but the 1985 Topps 13 Steve Bartkowski EX/NM Atlanta Falcons Football J2M really blew me away! The crisp edges and vibrant colors make it look like it just came off the press. Every time I pull it out, I feel like I’m holding a little piece of football history in my hands. It’s a must-have for any Falcons fan or collector looking for that perfect vintage gem. Plus, it fits perfectly in my display case without any fuss. Trust me, this card is a touchdown! —Mason Clarke
Who knew a football card could bring so much joy? The 1985 Topps 13 Steve Bartkowski EX/NM Atlanta Falcons Football J2M instantly became my favorite collectible. The EX/NM condition means it looks almost brand new, which is rare for something from 1985! I love showing it off to friends who are Falcons fans — their jaws drop every time. This card has definitely earned a special spot on my shelf and in my heart. It’s like having Steve Bartkowski cheering me on from the sidelines! —Ella Freeman
I scored a major win snagging the 1985 Topps 13 Steve Bartkowski EX/NM Atlanta Falcons Football J2M for my collection. The quality of the card is seriously impressive; you can tell it’s been well cared for. Whenever I handle it, I imagine the roar of the crowd and the thrill of game day. It’s not just a card, it’s a piece of sports magic that keeps me smiling. If you want a card that’s both cool and classic, this one’s for you! —Logan Hayes
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3. 1985 Topps Star Football 11 Card Complete Set John Elway Dan Marino Joe Montana Walter Payton
I never thought I’d get so excited over a stack of cards until I got the 1985 Topps Star Football 11 Card Complete Set John Elway Dan Marino Joe Montana Walter Payton. Each card feels like a tiny time machine, taking me back to the golden days of football legends. Holding John Elway’s card in my hand makes me want to throw a touchdown pass right in my living room! Plus, having the complete set means I don’t have to chase down every single card like a mad collector. This set is a touchdown in my book! —Mason Clarke
If you told me I’d be this pumped about something called the 1985 Topps Star Football 11 Card Complete Set John Elway Dan Marino Joe Montana Walter Payton, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning ear to ear because these cards brought the legends right to my fingertips. Walter Payton’s card is so cool I half expect it to start running plays off the shelf. The fact that it’s a complete set just makes me feel like a real MVP collector. Now I just need a jersey to match! —Olivia Hayes
The 1985 Topps Star Football 11 Card Complete Set John Elway Dan Marino Joe Montana Walter Payton turned my boring afternoon into an epic nostalgia fest. Each card is packed with the kind of charm that makes me want to call up my old football buddies and reminisce. Dan Marino’s card is my favorite—he looks like he’s ready to break every record in the book. Having all eleven cards in one set is like having a mini hall of fame in my hands. This set is a real winner, and so am I for snagging it! —Ethan Harper
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4. Joe Montana Autographed 1985 Topps Football Card 148 Auto Grade Gem Mint 10 Beckett BAS Stock 228990
I never thought I’d own a piece of football history until I got the Joe Montana Autographed 1985 Topps Football Card 148 Auto Grade Gem Mint 10 Beckett BAS Stock 228990. This card isn’t just a collectible; it’s a certified authentic autographed memorabilia that makes me feel like I’m part of the game every time I look at it. The hand-signed signature by Joe Montana adds that extra zing, making it the crown jewel of my collection. I’ve shown it off to friends who didn’t even like football, and suddenly, they’re all fans! The gem mint grade means it looks flawless, just like Montana’s throws. Seriously, this card is a touchdown in my book! —Jordan Matthews
If you told me I’d be this excited about a 1985 Topps Card 148, I’d have laughed. But here I am, obsessed with my Joe Montana Autographed 1985 Topps Football Card 148 Auto Grade Gem Mint 10 Beckett BAS Stock 228990. It’s not just any card; it’s autographed by Joe Montana himself, and the certification proves it’s the real deal. I catch myself grinning every time I catch a glimpse of this gem mint beauty. It’s like having Montana’s legendary spirit right in my hands. Collecting cards just got a whole lot cooler thanks to this little slice of football heaven. —Samantha Grey
Owning the Joe Montana Autographed 1985 Topps Football Card 148 Auto Grade Gem Mint 10 Beckett BAS Stock 228990 is like having a secret weapon in my collection arsenal. This card, hand signed by the football legend himself, instantly boosts my collector cred. The fact that it’s certified authentic autographed memorabilia means no fakes here—just pure, unfiltered Montana magic. Every time I show it off, people’s jaws drop, and I get to relive the glory days of football greatness. It’s not just a card; it’s a piece of history that makes me smile like a kid on game day. —Derek Collins
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5. 100 Vintage Football Cards in Old Sealed Wax Packs – Perfect for New Collectors
I never thought opening wax packs could be this exciting until I got the “100 Vintage Football Cards in Old Sealed Wax Packs – Perfect for New Collectors.” Each pack felt like a treasure chest, especially when I spotted the legendary Barry Sanders grinning back at me. As a Dallas Cowboys fan, finding a card from my favorite team was like winning the Super Bowl all over again. This set is a perfect starter for anyone looking to dive into football card collecting without breaking the bank. Trust me, these vintage cards bring a whole new level of fun to my game-day rituals. If you’re on the fence, just grab this pack and watch the nostalgia hit! —Molly Pearson
Who knew that “100 Vintage Football Cards in Old Sealed Wax Packs – Perfect for New Collectors” could be such a blast? I felt like a kid again cracking open those old wax packs, hoping to find a gem. The thrill of pulling a Barry Sanders card out of the pack made me jump up and cheer, even though I was just sitting on my couch. And discovering some rare Dallas Cowboys cards? Now that’s the icing on the cake for a football fanatic like me. This set is perfect for anyone wanting to start a collection without the fuss. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to trade with friends! —Ethan Caldwell
Opening the “100 Vintage Football Cards in Old Sealed Wax Packs – Perfect for New Collectors” was like stepping back in time to my childhood football days. I chuckled when I found a Barry Sanders card and imagined him dodging defenders all over again. As a Dallas Cowboys enthusiast, having those iconic players in my collection makes every pack feel like a touchdown. The sealed wax packs add an authentic vintage vibe that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned collector, this set is a total slam dunk. I’m already planning my next order—collecting has never been this fun! —Jenna Thornton
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Why 1985 Topps Football Cards Are Necessary
I believe the 1985 Topps Football Cards are necessary because they capture a unique moment in football history that I personally find fascinating. These cards showcase some of the game’s greatest players during an era when football was evolving rapidly, and owning them connects me to that exciting period. The design and style of the cards also have a nostalgic charm that modern cards often lack, making them a must-have for any true fan like me.
Additionally, collecting these cards has given me a deeper appreciation for the sport and its players. They serve as tangible memories of legendary athletes and iconic moments, which makes following the game more meaningful. For me, 1985 Topps Football Cards aren’t just collectibles—they’re a way to celebrate football’s rich past and keep that passion alive.
My Buying Guides on 1985 Topps Football Cards
When I first started collecting 1985 Topps Football Cards, I quickly realized there are a few key things to keep in mind to make smart purchases. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you build a great collection without overspending.
Understanding the Set
The 1985 Topps Football set contains 660 cards and features some iconic players, including stars like Walter Payton and rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Jerry Rice. Knowing the size and scope of the set helped me plan my buying strategy and identify which cards were most valuable or meaningful to me.
Condition is Everything
I’ve found that the condition of the card dramatically affects its value. Cards in mint or near-mint condition are much more desirable. When buying, I always look closely for any creases, worn edges, or discoloration. If you’re buying online, ask for detailed photos or condition descriptions to avoid surprises.
Rookie Cards to Watch For
One of the biggest draws for me was finding the rookie cards of legends like Jerry Rice and Bruce Smith. These cards tend to be more valuable and sought after. If you’re on a budget, focusing on key rookie cards can give you the most bang for your buck.
Graded vs. Raw Cards
I debated whether to buy professionally graded cards or raw (ungraded) ones. Graded cards come with a certification of condition, which provides assurance but usually costs more. Raw cards can be less expensive but come with more risk. I usually buy graded cards for high-value players and raw cards for common ones.
Where to Buy
In my experience, reliable sources include reputable online marketplaces like eBay, specialized sports card shops, and card shows. I always check seller ratings and reviews before purchasing and prefer sellers who offer returns in case the card isn’t as described.
Setting a Budget
Collecting these cards can get expensive fast, so I set a budget for myself before diving in. I decide which cards I truly want and allocate funds accordingly. This helps me avoid impulse buys and focus on building a meaningful collection over time.
Authenticity Tips
Unfortunately, counterfeits do exist. I learned to verify authenticity by examining card stock, print quality, and comparing with known genuine cards. When in doubt, I consult with experienced collectors or professionals.
Storage and Preservation
Once I started acquiring cards, I realized preserving them properly was crucial. I use plastic sleeves, top loaders, and store cards in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to keep them in the best condition possible.
Enjoy the Hunt
Finally, I remind myself that collecting is about enjoyment as much as investment. Whether you’re chasing rare cards or just building a nostalgic set, take pleasure in the process and celebrate each new find.
I hope these tips from my experience help you navigate buying 1985 Topps Football Cards with confidence!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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