Topps is once again revolutionizing the trading card industry with the launch of the 2023-24 Topps Mercury Victor Wembanyama collection. Priced at a whopping $8,000 per box, this high-end product is dedicated entirely to the NBA’s Rookie of the Year, Victor Wembanyama. Each box is a treasure trove, containing eight cards that include two sought-after autographs, pieces of Wembanyama’s game-worn jersey, and several rare chase cards sure to set collectors’ hearts aflutter.
This collection marks the inaugural release of the Topps Mercury line, setting a new standard of luxury and exclusivity in the world of trading cards. Topps has pulled out all the stops by utilizing their exclusive autograph agreement with Wembanyama and incorporating relics from his rookie season into the cards. Each card is meticulously sealed in a magnetic case and cloaked in foil, underscoring the premium quality of this set.
One of the crown jewels of this collection is a dual autograph card featuring not only Wembanyama but also the legendary NBA icon, LeBron James. Both players have exclusive autograph deals with Fanatics, making this card a true collector’s dream. Additionally, fans can hunt for the ultra-rare red parallels limited to just five copies, as well as the unique one-of-a-kind SuperFractor card, further enhancing the desirability of this set.
To add a personal touch, Topps has crafted ten distinct autograph cards, some of which feature personal inscriptions from Wembanyama himself. The relic cards in the collection are sourced from pivotal moments in Wembanyama’s rookie season, including his NBA debut and the game where he notched his 1,000th point – truly encapsulating the essence of his remarkable journey.
Last year, the debut NBA jersey of Wembanyama fetched a jaw-dropping $762,000 at auction, setting the stage for the excitement surrounding the game-worn relics included in this collection. Dual autograph pairings extend beyond LeBron James to include NBA legends like David Robinson, Tony Parker, Shaquille O’Neal, Jason Kidd, and even football sensation CJ Stroud, all exclusive to Fanatics. With a production limit of no more than ten copies for each dual autograph, these cards are destined to be highly coveted.
Apart from the autographs and relics, collectors can delight in 20 base cards that chronicle significant moments from Wembanyama’s rookie season. Paying homage to his French heritage, the base short prints are adorned with French text and are restricted to just 45 copies each. Furthermore, a ultra-exclusive “Specimen” super short print version, limited to only 15 copies, celebrates Wembanyama’s “Alien” moniker. Serial numbers for all 20 base cards will be capped at 99, adding an extra layer of prestige to these collectibles.
The set isn’t just about autographs and base cards, as it also showcases ten distinct insert designs. Noteworthy inserts include “Cote to Coast,” a homage to the Cote d’Azur, 1971 Topps Chrome, and Wingspan, some of which will feature autographs for an added thrill.
While Topps has dabbled in single-athlete sets before, such as the Topps x J-Rod (Julio Rodriguez) collection in 2023, the Wembanyama release marks their most expansive single-athlete set to date, promising a widespread distribution to eager collectors.
Enthusiasts can anticipate the boxes becoming available for purchase on Topps.com and select hobby shops. For a special treat, there will be an exclusive debut via Fanatics Live happening one day prior to the official release date of October 9. The Topps Mercury brand is set to continue beyond Wembanyama, with plans for future single-athlete products tied to emerging stars’ debut seasons, offering collectors a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of sports memorabilia.