Wayne Gretzky

1981 Topps Wayne Gretzky #52 value & prices

How much is the 1981 Topps Wayne Gretzky #52 worth? Raw, ungraded copies sell for around $2.99, while graded examples can be worth significantly more. This Hockey card is part of the 1981 Topps set.

Graded copies command a clear premium — an ungraded copy is worth around $2.99, a PSA 9 around $29.21, a PSA 10 (Gem Mint) around $257.55 and a pristine BGS 10 around $335.00. That's roughly a 86× premium for a gem-mint copy over raw — one of the clearest signals that condition-sensitive buyers dominate this card's market.

See the full grade ladder and current eBay listings above. Collectors use Ripbin to scan, value and trade cards like the Wayne Gretzky.

Market context

The junk-wax era means supply is high, but that cuts both ways: raw copies are affordable entry points, while flawless graded examples stand out precisely because so many copies exist in lesser condition.

Hockey cards trade in a tighter but dedicated market — key rookies and vintage stars hold value well.

Is it worth grading?

With raw copies near $2.99 and top grades reaching $257.55, grading a sharp copy of this card can clearly pay for itself — the spread comfortably covers a typical ~$25.00 grading fee. The catch: only submit copies with strong centering, clean corners, and unmarked surfaces, because anything below a 9 usually erases the math.

When choosing a grader, PSA slabs typically resell fastest, BGS rewards truly pristine copies, and SGC/CGC offer faster turnarounds — compare each label's value in the grade table above.

Smart buying guide

Before buying a Wayne Gretzky #52, compare several live listings — prices for the same card can vary widely depending on condition, seller reputation, and whether an auction is ending soon. The live eBay listings above update throughout the day.

If you own this card, scan it with Ripbin to add it to your locker — you'll see its value tracked over time, and other collectors can discover it and send bids.