1972 Topps Willie Lanier #35
Willie Lanier · Topps · Base / Hall of Famer
Player
Willie Lanier
Set
1972 Topps Football
Year
1972
Card #
#35
Condition Grade
PSA 3 (VG) - Corners show significant rounding, top-left whitening, and rough edges. Centering is shifted moderately toward the bottom right.
Category
Base / Hall of Famer
Manufacturer
Topps
Demand Level
Moderate. Willie Lanier is a respected Hall of Famer, making this a staple for HOF set collectors or Chiefs team collectors, but raw condition limits 'investment grade' interest.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$5.00 - $12.00
Graded Value
PSA 2: $8-10, PSA 3: $15-20, PSA 4: $25-35
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar 'Very Good' condition range from $6 to $11 plus shipping. PSA 4 copies generally sell for $30-$40, while PSA 7 'Near Mint' copies can reach $100+.
Description
This 1972 Topps football card features Hall of Fame linebacker Willie Lanier of the Kansas City Chiefs. The reverse side (shown) includes a biographical sketch, career interception statistics from 1967-1971, and a charming 'Willie's Nickname is Bear' cartoon illustration. The high-contrast blue and green back design is a hallmark of the 1972 set.
Key Features
Features a Pro Football Hall of Fame member (inducted 1986). It is a classic early-70s vintage card from one of the most popular Topps football designs. Part of the legendary Kansas City Chiefs defense during their peak era.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence authentic. Card shows appropriate age-related oxidation on the pulp cardstock. The green and blue ink colors match the 1972 Topps printing profile, including the 'T.C.G.' copyright stamp and the 'PRTD. IN U.S.A.' designation.
Flaws to Note
Corners are heavily rounded and soft, particularly the top-left and bottom-right. The centering on the back is shifted towards the bottom and right edges. There is visible edge wear/chipping throughout. The card stock shows typical vintage toning (browning).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for a mid-tier raw vintage card like this. It could also find a buyer at a local card show in a 'dollar bin' or vintage box.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card; the grading fees would far exceed the market value for a PSA 3/4 specimen. List as '1972 Topps Willie Lanier Kansas City Chiefs HOF #35' to maximize search visibility. Use a penny sleeve and top loader for shipping to prevent further corner wear.