2024 Topps Series 2 Jackson Merrill Rookie Short Print (Golden Mirror Image Variation) #696
Jackson Merrill · Topps / Fanatics · Rookie Card (RC), Short Print (SP), Golden Mirror Image Variation, Parallel
Player
Jackson Merrill
Set
2024 Topps Series 2
Year
2024
Card #
#696
Condition Grade
Estimated PSA 9 (Mint). The centering appears slightly heavy to the right (approx 60/40), which is typical for modern Topps. Corners and edges look sharp from the photo, but surface assessment is limited by lighting glare.
Category
Rookie Card (RC), Short Print (SP), Golden Mirror Image Variation, Parallel
Manufacturer
Topps / Fanatics
Demand Level
Hot. Merrill is currently a hobby darling due to his performance for the Padres. Short prints of top rookies in Series 2 are the most actively traded cards in the current market.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$175.00 - $250.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $150-180, PSA 9: $225-275, PSA 10: $550-750
Comparable Sales
Recent raw sales for the Merrill Golden Mirror SP have ranged from $190 to $260. PSA 10 copies have cleared $700 in recent weeks as his Rookie of the Year odds have improved.
Description
A stunning 2024 Topps Series 2 Jackson Merrill Golden Mirror Image Variation Short Print. This extremely rare SSP features a full-bleed action shot of the San Diego Padres star rookie making a leaping catch against the outfield wall. The card is distinguished by the 'Topps 75' logo and the gold-foil themed reverse side standard for the Mirror Variation set. Clean surfaces and crisp white borders make this a premier modern chase card.
Key Features
This is a 'Golden Mirror' SSP (Super Short Print), which is significantly rarer than the standard base rookie card. Jackson Merrill is a top NL Rookie of the Year candidate, driving massive demand. This specific variation replaces the standard portrait with a high-action fielding shot.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Card stock shows correct gloss and layered composition. The specific 'Topps 75' foil stamp and 'SD' logo placement match known Golden Mirror prints. Micro-printing in the player name block is sharp.
Flaws to Note
Visible L-R centering issues (right border is narrower than left). Potential minor white chipping on the bottom left corner tip. Minor surface scratches could exist but are hidden by the photograph's lighting glare.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Auction) to capitalize on current hype, or MySlabs if you choose to grade it first. High-end Facebook groups like 'MLB Card Buy/Sell/Trade' are also viable to avoid high seller fees.
Selling Tips
Do not sell this at a Local Card Shop (LCS) as they will likely offer 50-60% of value. Given the centering, a PSA 10 is not guaranteed; consider selling Raw at peak hype or sending to SGC for a faster turnaround if it looks flawless under a loupe. Use keywords: SSP, GOLDEN MIRROR, CASE HIT, RC.