Vintage VFL trading cards are the crown jewels of Australian Rules Football memorabilia. From the golden age of the 1930s to the rise of Scanlens in the 1970s, these cardboard treasures represent more than just collectibles — they are a piece of Aussie sports history.
Whether you're a seasoned investor, passionate fan, or curious beginner, this guide will walk you through the top 10 most valuable pre-1980 VFL cards of all time and why they continue to skyrocket in demand and value.
🔟 The Top 10 Most Valuable Vintage VFL Cards
1. Ted Whitten – 1950 Kornies
Nickname: “Mr. Football”
Estimated Value (PSA 7+): $3,000–$10,000+
A foundational piece for any collection. Ted Whitten’s 1950 Kornies is the ultimate VFL card due to rarity and status.
🔥 Investment Tip: Look for centered versions with minimal corner wear. Only a handful exist in top condition.
2. Ron Barassi – 1957 Scanlens
Estimated Value: $2,500–$8,000+
One of the most important figures in the game, Barassi’s first Scanlens card is a blue-chip asset for collectors.
📈 Rarity Boost: 1957 cards were not widely kept, making clean copies especially scarce.
3. Dick Reynolds – 1933 Hoadleys
Estimated Value: $3,000–$7,000
Triple Brownlow Medal winner and Essendon legend. 1930s Hoadleys cards are among the earliest VFL collectibles ever produced.
💡 Preservation is Key: Many of these cards were glued into albums. Unglued or graded copies are very rare.
4. Leigh Matthews – 1973 Scanlens Rookie
Estimated Value (PSA 9-10): $4,000–$6,000+
Arguably the GOAT of AFL, “Lethal Leigh’s” rookie is the most sought-after card from the 1970s era.
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5. Gordon Coventry – 1933 Hoadleys
Estimated Value: $2,000–$5,000
Collingwood’s legendary goal kicker. This card is both historically and financially significant.
🎯 Why It Matters: Very few intact 1933 Hoadleys survive — and Coventry's is the crown jewel.
6. Norm Smith – 1950 Kornies
Estimated Value: $2,000–$4,000
VFL icon and legendary coach. His Kornies card is a dual-threat collectible: player and legacy coach.
📦 Pro Tip: Store vintage cards in acid-free sleeves and top-loaders. Get card supplies here
7. Peter Hudson – 1969 Scanlens Rookie
Estimated Value: $1,800–$3,500
One of the game's greatest full-forwards. His rookie card features classic vintage Scanlens design.
⚠️ Note: 1969 cards are notoriously off-centered. High-grade Hudsons are very hard to find.
8. Jack Dyer – 1948 Kornies
Estimated Value: $2,500–$4,000
“Captain Blood” is Richmond royalty. His 1948 Kornies card is one of the earliest known footy cards printed post-war.
📷 Display Tip: Use UV-protective magnetic holders. Shop holders
9. Bob Skilton – 1959 Kornies Rookie
Estimated Value: $2,000–$3,000
Triple Brownlow winner and South Melbourne icon. A tough card from a tough era.
💬 Collector Buzz: Few Kornies cards survived intact, and even fewer were preserved in mint form.
10. John Coleman – 1950 Kornies
Estimated Value: $1,500–$3,500
Essendon’s explosive full-forward. This card remains a nostalgic piece of footy history.
🎁 Insider Hack: Watch vintage estate sales and old toy auctions — these cards do pop up!
🥈 Honourable Mentions
Peter Daicos – 1980 Scanlens Rookie
Lou Richards – 1953 Kornies
Kevin Bartlett – 1969 Scanlens Rookie
Keith Greig – 1971 Scanlens Rookie
Darrel Baldock – 1963 Scanlens
🧠 Why These Cards Are So Valuable
Factor Explanation
Rarity Limited print runs and poor preservation rates
Grading Pop Reports Many have fewer than 10 PSA 8+ cards globally
Historical Significance All players are AFL legends or Hall of Famers
Cultural Nostalgia Aussie collectors are returning to their roots
📦 Essential Gear for Vintage Card Collectors
Protect your investments with the right tools:
✅ Grading Prep Tools
Card Inspection Lights
Microfiber Cloths
✅ Storage & Shipping
Top Loaders
Team Bags
Bubble Mailers
Label Maker
💸 Where to Buy Vintage VFL Cards
Collector Facebook Groups and Gumtree
👊 Final Thoughts
If you're looking for long-term value and pure nostalgia, vintage VFL cards are a safe bet in the collectibles world. The top 10 cards listed here have already proven to be investment-grade assets — and with rising demand, the best time to secure your piece of history is now.
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