1948 Leaf Football Cards Value: Ultimate Price Guide & Grading Insights

Estimated reading time: 12 min

Key Takeaways

• The 1948 Leaf football cards value varies widely by player, grade, and card condition.
• Key rookie cards like Sid Luckman and Bobby Layne often command premium prices especially in high-grade conditions such as PSA 10.
• Centering, corners, edges, and surface quality significantly impact grading and market value.
• Variations such as yellow backgrounds and black name fronts can affect collectibility and price.
• Using AI grading tools like Midpoint can help estimate card grades before costly submissions.

Card values — live data from Midpoint's card database, as of 2026-09-04. Prices move; Midpoint refreshes these daily.

	Card	Raw	PSA 10	Gem premium
	Sid Luckman #1 1948 Leaf	$214.96	$58,598	272.6×
	Sammy Baugh #34 1948 Leaf	$199.99	$54,880	274.4×
	Bobby Layne #6 1948 Leaf	$139.46	$38,036	272.7×
	Sid Luckman [Yellow Background] #1 1948 Leaf	$131.13	$36,067	275.1×
	Doak Walker #4 1948 Leaf	$134.15	$29,750	221.8×
	Kenny Washington #17 1948 Leaf	$73.50	$20,064	273×
	Larry Joe #69 1948 Leaf	$70.75	$19,314	273×
	Len Younce #61 1948 Leaf	$60.06	$16,409	273.2×
	Porter Payne #95 1948 Leaf	$59.99	$16,382	273.1×
	Steve Van Buren #22 1948 Leaf	$59.00	$16,109	273×
	Tony Minisi #75 1948 Leaf	$57.50	$15,834	275.4×
	John Goldsberry #94 1948 Leaf	$52.16	$14,741	282.6×

Look up any card's current raw and graded value in Midpoint — and get an estimated grade before you pay to submit.

Table of Contents

• Section 1: Overview of the 1948 Leaf Football Card Set
• Section 2: How Condition and PSA Grade Affect 1948 Leaf Football Cards Value
• Section 3: Top Rookie Cards and Most Valuable 1948 Leaf Cards
• Section 4: High-Value Variations and Print Differences in the 1948 Leaf Set
• Section 5: Auction Sales, Population Scarcity, and Realized Prices
• Section 6: Raw vs Graded Values and Which Cards Are Worth Grading
• Section 7: Authenticity, Identification, and Common Issues with 1948 Leaf Cards
• Conclusion
• FAQ

Section 1: Overview of the 1948 Leaf Football Card Set

The Historical Significance of the 1948 Leaf Set

The 1948 Leaf football card set is considered a landmark in sports card collecting, marking one of the earliest post-war football issues. It comprises 128 cards featuring players from the NFL and All-America Football Conference. The set is appreciated for its vibrant color photography and crisp design, representing an important moment in football memorabilia history.

Composition and Checklist Highlights

The checklist includes notable players such as Sid Luckman, Bobby Layne, Chuck Bednarik, Doak Walker, Charlie Justice, and Bob Waterfield. These stars are among the most sought-after cards in the set, reflecting their significance and relative scarcity in high-grade condition.

Why Collectors Value the 1948 Leaf Set

• First major post-war football card set with color photography.
• Includes key rookie cards of Hall of Fame players.
• Relatively lower print runs compared to modern sets, contributing to scarcity.
• Unique print variations and color backgrounds add collecting depth.

Below is a pricing table of select cards from the set, as of 2026-09-04, illustrating raw and graded values across PSA 10 and lower grades. This snapshot is useful for collectors evaluating their holdings or prospective purchases.

Section 2: How Condition and PSA Grade Affect 1948 Leaf Football Cards Value

The Role of Card Condition in Valuation

Card condition is a key factor in determining value in the 1948 Leaf football cards market. The four main grading criteria—centering, corners, edges, and surface—each play an important role. Collectors and graders look for sharp corners, clean edges, vibrant surfaces, and precise centering. Flaws in any of these areas can reduce value significantly.

Understanding PSA Grading and Its Impact

PSA grading ranges from 1 (Poor) to 10 (Gem Mint). Due to the age and print quality of the 1948 Leaf set, PSA 10 cards are relatively rare. Cards graded PSA 9 still command high premiums, but the price difference between PSA 9 and PSA 10 can be substantial, often several times higher. For example, Sid Luckman’s 1948 Leaf rookie card is valued at roughly $42,000 in PSA 10 and approximately $12,000-$14,000 in PSA 9.

Centering's Significant Effect on Value

Centering is often the most impactful grading factor for the 1948 Leaf set. Due to the card design and printing technology of the era, centering varies widely. Cards with centering within 55/45 or better are less common and more desirable. Midpoint’s AI-powered centering measurement tool helps collectors accurately gauge this attribute, reducing the risk of submitting a card unlikely to receive a top grade.

Understanding these grading nuances can help avoid costly grading mistakes. Visit our comprehensive How Centering Impacts Card Value guide to learn more.

Section 3: Top Rookie Cards and Most Valuable 1948 Leaf Cards

Sid Luckman Rookie Card

Sid Luckman’s rookie card is among the most coveted in the 1948 Leaf football set. As of 2026-09-04, a raw Luckman card may fetch around $4,500, while a PSA 10 example can command prices upwards of $42,000. The card’s popularity stems from Luckman’s Hall of Fame career and the card’s relative scarcity in high-grade condition.

Bobby Layne and Chuck Bednarik Rookie Cards

Bobby Layne’s rookie card is also highly valued, with PSA 10 prices around $25,000. The Layne card is notable for its black name variation on the front, which collectors seek. Chuck Bednarik’s rookie card, another Hall of Famer, commands about $24,000 in PSA 10 and is prized for its design and player legacy.

Other High-Value Rookies

• Doak Walker: Approximately $1,500 raw and $14,500 PSA 10, with yellow background variations potentially boosting value.
• Charlie Justice: Less expensive but still valuable, around $900 raw and $8,000 PSA 10.
• Bob Waterfield: Black name variation and PSA 10 grade may yield around $11,500.

These cards form the core of the set’s collectible value and are often prioritized for grading and careful preservation.

Section 4: High-Value Variations and Print Differences in the 1948 Leaf Set

Yellow Background Variations

Several cards in the 1948 Leaf set exist in a yellow background variation, which can command higher prices. For example, the Sid Luckman and Doak Walker cards with yellow backgrounds are considered rarer and more desirable among collectors. This subtle difference may add to a card’s value, especially when paired with high grades.

Black Name on Front Variation

Another key variation is the black name printed on the front of the card, notably seen on Bobby Layne and Bob Waterfield cards. This variation’s relative scarcity and aesthetic appeal can increase its market value, making these versions particularly collectible.

Print Quality and Color Saturation Differences

The 1948 Leaf cards exhibit some print inconsistencies due to the printing technology of the time. Color saturation varies, which can affect visual appeal and grading outcomes. Cards with vibrant colors are more likely to achieve higher grades and bring premium prices.

Collectors should carefully compare their cards against known variations to properly identify and value these differences. Using Midpoint’s precise centering and surface grading features can assist in identifying the best candidates for grading submission, potentially maximizing returns.

Section 5: Auction Sales, Population Scarcity, and Realized Prices

Recent Auction Trends for 1948 Leaf Cards

Recent auctions have shown strong demand for high-grade 1948 Leaf football cards. PSA 10 examples often meet or exceed pre-auction estimates, particularly for the Sid Luckman and Bobby Layne rookies. For instance, a PSA 10 Sid Luckman card recently sold for approximately $43,500, slightly above typical market value, indicating collector enthusiasm.

Population Scarcity and Its Influence on Value

Population reports indicate limited PSA 10 examples for most key cards. Sid Luckman’s card has fewer than 50 PSA 10 graded copies, while Bobby Layne and Chuck Bednarik have around 30-40 examples each. This scarcity contributes to premiums for mint-condition cards.

Near-Complete Set Values

Near-complete 1948 Leaf sets can command significant prices, often ranging from $35,000 to $60,000 depending on card quality and included rookies. Complete graded sets in high condition are rarer and are prized acquisitions for serious collectors and investors.

Understanding these market dynamics can help sellers time their sales and buyers recognize fair value. Tools like Midpoint facilitate tracking your collection’s value over time, keeping you informed about market shifts.

Section 6: Raw vs Graded Values and Which 1948 Leaf Cards Are Worth Grading

Price Differentials Between Raw and Graded Cards

The value gap between raw and graded 1948 Leaf cards can be substantial. For example, a raw Sid Luckman card typically sells for around $4,500, while a PSA 10 example may reach about $42,000. This illustrates the premium collectors place on certified top-grade condition.

Identifying Cards Worth Grading

Not every 1948 Leaf card is worth grading due to grading costs and risk. Cards with:

• Good centering, ideally 55/45 or better
• Sharp corners and edges
• Clean surfaces with minimal print defects
• High-value players or sought-after variations

are generally considered prime grading candidates. Using an AI grading app like Midpoint enables collectors to estimate PSA, BGS, CGC, and TAG grades quickly, helping avoid costly grading submissions on lower-condition cards.

Grading Strategy for Maximizing Return

Focusing grading efforts on cards with realistic chances of PSA 9 or 10 grades can help maximize return on investment. Midpoint’s precise centering calculator and surface analysis tools assist in pre-assessing these factors accurately.

Learn more about pre-grading your cards with our detailed How to Pre-Grade Your Card guide.

Section 7: Authenticity, Identification, and Common Issues with 1948 Leaf Cards

How to Identify Authentic 1948 Leaf Football Cards

Authentic 1948 Leaf cards feature specific printing and paper stock characteristics. The cards use a glossy finish and display vibrant color photography with sharp borders. Authenticity can be assessed by:

• Examining the card back for the correct Leaf copyright and design.
• Checking paper texture and weight consistent with era standards.
• Verifying color saturation and printing style typical of Leaf’s 1948 production.

Common Issues and How They Affect Value

Common problems that reduce card value include:

• Off-centering beyond 60/40 ratios.
• Worn or frayed corners and edges.
• Surface scratches, stains, or print defects.
• Color fading or discoloration.

Collectors should carefully inspect cards or use digital grading tools to detect these flaws early. Midpoint’s AI-powered surface grading can help identify surface defects and edge wear, enabling smarter buying and selling decisions.

Tips for Preserving Card Condition

Proper storage is important to maintain card value. Use acid-free sleeves, rigid holders, and climate-controlled environments to prevent damage. For expert advice, see our Ultimate Collector's Guide to Storing Valuable Cards.

Conclusion

The 1948 Leaf football cards value landscape is influenced by player significance, card condition, grading status, and unique print variations. High-grade rookie cards of legends like Sid Luckman and Bobby Layne often command exceptional prices, especially in PSA 10 condition. Using tools like Midpoint to measure centering and estimate grades before costly grading submission can help collectors save time and money while aiming to maximize investment returns.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new investor, understanding the nuances of grading, population scarcity, and authentic variations can help you make informed decisions in the vibrant 1948 Leaf football card market.

FAQ

Q: What is a 1948 Leaf football card worth in different grades?

A: Values vary by grade. For example, the Sid Luckman rookie card is worth around $4,500 raw, about $12,000-$14,000 in PSA 9, and approximately $42,000 in PSA 10 as of 2026-09-04.

Q: Which 1948 Leaf football cards are the most valuable?

A: The most valuable generally include the Sid Luckman rookie, Bobby Layne rookie, and Chuck Bednarik rookie cards, especially in high-grade PSA 9 and 10 conditions.

Q: How much is a Sid Luckman 1948 Leaf rookie card worth?

A: It ranges from roughly $4,500 raw to $42,000 graded PSA 10, depending on condition and centering.

Q: Are 1948 Leaf football cards with variations worth more?

A: Cards with yellow backgrounds or black name on front variations often command premium prices due to their relative rarity and collector demand.

Q: What is the value of a complete 1948 Leaf football set?

A: Near-complete graded sets can range from $35,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on card quality and inclusion of key rookies.

Q: Should I grade my 1948 Leaf football card before selling it?

A: Grading is recommended for cards with strong centering, sharp edges, and corners that have a reasonable chance at PSA 9 or 10 grades. Using tools like Midpoint can help estimate grading outcomes before submission.