If you're a sports card collector or simply an NFL enthusiast, then you’re quite familiar with the growing legend of Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs superstar isn’t just a quarterback; he’s a generational talent redefining the game. With MVP titles, mind-blowing stats, and multiple Super Bowl championships already under his belt, it’s no wonder his rookie cards are among the most sought-after collectibles in the world.

For collectors, these cards represent more than Mahomes’ debut season; they’re pieces of a living legacy. Below, we’ll dive deep into the best Patrick Mahomes 2017 rookie cards from top brands and what makes certain Mahomes cards more valuable than others.

Patrick Mahomes: A Legend in the Making

The term “living legend” gets tossed around in sports talk quite a bit, but few athletes are as worthy of the designation as Mahomes. The Chiefs quarterback is the kind of athlete that only comes along once in a generation. From dazzling no-look passes to clutch performances in championship moments, Mahomes has already cemented his name in football history.

When Kansas City first drafted Mahomes 10^th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Mahomes was more of an unknown than a known commodity. Factor in that he spent his rookie season backing up veteran Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith, and few football fans outside of Kansas City paid much attention to him. But when Mahomes got the chance to start in the 2018-2019 NFL season, he burst onto the scene unlike any quarterback we’ve ever seen.

In his first full season, he won the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. The following season, he led the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl appearance since 1970, capturing the Lombardi Trophy for just the franchise’s second time. As of this writing, Mahomes has another MVP under his belt, four more Super Bowl appearances (with two more wins), and two more Super Bowl MVP awards. At only 29 years old, Mahomes is on the path to claiming bragging rights as the greatest quarterback in NFL history.

Criteria for Determining the Best Mahomes Rookie Cards

Before jumping into our rankings of the best Patrick Mahomes 2017 rookie cards, it’s important to understand what makes one card more valuable than others. Serious collectors and investors evaluate cards based on key factors, including rarity, design, condition, and overall market demand.

Limited-edition print runs (numbered cards), bold autographs, and unique features like jersey patches or gold finishes can skyrocket a card’s value. PSA or BGS grading also plays a huge role in confirming a card’s condition, further impacting its worth.

The 10 Most Valuable Mahomes Rookie Cards

Rookie cards are always vintage collectibles for old players, and for current players, they are excellent investments in the future. With Mahomes, we can rest assured that his rookie card’s value will only rise as he adds more accolades to his already incredible career. Below are some of the most valuable Mahomes rookie cards collectors should target.

2017 Panini Prizm Silver Patrick Mahomes RC

The 2017 Panini Prizm Silver rookie card is the definition of sleek and desirable. With its signature reflective design, this card has become a standout in the collecting world.

What makes it truly special is its relative rarity. While the base Panini Prizm Mahomes is great, the Silver variation offers an added layer of exclusivity that collectors crave.

2017 Panini Contenders Rookie Ticket Auto Patrick Mahomes

This iconic card is a masterpiece in any collection, celebrated for featuring an on-card autograph. Collectors across the industry know the "Rookie Ticket Auto" series from Panini Contenders as one of the quintessential collector’s sets. For Mahomes fans, owning this card means holding a piece of his NFL legacy in the palm of their hand.

2017 National Treasures RPA Patrick Mahomes /99

When it comes to luxurious design, the 2017 National Treasures RPA Mahomes rookie card stands in a league of its own. Featuring a bold jersey patch and striking aesthetics, this card screams premium. Limited to just 99 copies, the RPA (Rookie Patch Autograph) version combines rarity with sheer elegance.

2017 Donruss Optic Rated Rookie Patrick Mahomes

The "Rated Rookie" title is a hallmark of Donruss Optic, and Mahomes’ 2017 card is one of the most recognizable in the series. It offers that perfect mix of vibrant design, nostalgic appeal, and widespread popularity. This card isn’t quite as rare as others on this list, but its broad appeal and approachable price point make it an excellent starting point for new collectors.

2017 Select Gold Prizm Patrick Mahomes /10

If luxury had a face in the rookie card world, it would be the 2017 Select Gold Prizm Mahomes. Limited to just 10 copies, this card is pure collector gold. The striking gold finish pairs perfectly with Mahomes' elite stature, creating a card as flashy as it is rare.

2017 Panini Flawless Rookie Auto Patch Patrick Mahomes /25

"Flawless" isn’t just a name; it describes what this card embodies. Limited to only 25 copies, the Panini Flawless Rookie Auto Patch combines elegance with extreme scarcity. The stunning patch and clean autograph make this one of Mahomes's most visually captivating rookie cards.

2017 Immaculate Collection RPA Patrick Mahomes /99

The Immaculate RPA Mahomes card is another jaw-dropper featuring high-quality materials and top-tier design. Limited to 99 copies, this card showcases Mahomes' greatness with a combination of a premium jersey patch, sharp autograph, and stunning presentation. It’s impossible to ignore the sheer beauty of this card, and its value justifies its exquisite reputation.

2017 Panini Phoenix Color Burst Patrick Mahomes

The Color Burst insert from the 2017 Panini Phoenix set delivers energetic visuals that mirror the excitement Mahomes injects into every game. This card stands out for its unique blend of bright colors, making it an eye-catching addition to any collection. Its reasonably accessible price makes it an excellent option for both seasoned enthusiasts and new investors.

2017 Leaf Metal Draft Auto Patrick Mahomes

The 2017 Leaf Metal Draft Patrick Mahomes card is a hidden gem for fans of bold, clean autographs. This card doesn't feature patches or other frills that drive up the cost, but its sharp design and signature-centric presentation make it a favorite among purists. It’s also a more affordable alternative for Mahomes rookie cards without sacrificing desirability.

2017 Panini XR Rookie Auto Jersey Patrick Mahomes /75

A sleek combination of design and material, this auto jersey card from the Panini XR series is perfect for hardcore collectors. Limited to just 75 copies, it offers exclusivity wrapped up in a stylish presentation. The mix of a bold signature and a jersey swatch guarantees its spot as a must-have rookie card.

Find Mahomes RCs and More at JRI Cards

Collecting Patrick Mahomes rookie cards isn’t just a hobby; it’s an investment. Each championship, MVP-worthy season, and career-defining moment elevates Mahomes’ legacy, translating directly to the values of these sought-after cards.

At JRI Cards, you can find Mahomes rookie cards and other treasured commodities at a fraction of their value with our box breaks. Our live card breaks allow collectors to buy slots in boxes and packs and watch as we unveil them live on our YouTube and Facebook channels. Shop at JRI Cards and join the card-collecting fun today!