Cherry’s Guide to Collecting NHL Cards (2025)

Skates on, collectors—it's time to talk NHL cards! Whether you're chasing rookie autos, vintage Grails, or just trying to build out your favourite team set, collecting NHL trading cards is one of the coolest hobbies going.

❄️ Ready to hit the ice? Check out our NHL card collection

What is NHL?

The National Hockey League (NHL) is home to 32 teams—25 based in the US and 7 in Canada—and has been dropping jaws with end-to-end action, crazy shootouts, and Stanley Cup drama since 1917.

And in 2025, hockey fandom is alive and well in Australia too. Between global streaming, highlights all over socials, and rising interest in elite athletes like Connor Bedard and Cale Makar, the hype is real.

The History of NHL Trading Cards

Hockey cards go back over 100 years, with early issues coming in cigarette packs and food products. But the modern hobby kicked into gear in the 1990s and beyond with powerhouse sets from Upper Deck, who hold exclusive rights to NHL trading cards to this day.

Some of the most sought-after NHL cards of all time include The Cup RPAs, Young Guns rookies, and retro autos—featuring legends like Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, and Alexander Ovechkin.

Upper Deck continues to dominate, with fan-favourite brands like:

• Upper Deck Series 1 & 2 (Young Guns!)

• SP Authentic

• The Cup

• Black Diamond

• Artifacts

Why Are NHL Cards Still So Popular in 2025?

It comes down to three big reasons:

1. Star power – From rising rookies like Bedard to GOATs like Crosby and McDavid.

2. Exclusive content – Upper Deck keeps the hobby interesting with great designs, autos, patches, and case hits.

3. Global growth – As the sport expands worldwide, so does demand for the cards.

Plus, the thrill of the chase never gets old—especially when a 1-of-1 or Young Guns gem shows up in your pack.

How To Start Collecting NHL Cards

Starting a collection doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive. Here's how to hit the ice like a pro.

Tips for New Collectors:

• Choose a focus: team, player, or set

• Buy sealed retail or hobby boxes for variety

• Grab singles if chasing specific hits

• Keep your cards clean, protected, and organised

What Makes a “Good” Collection?

There’s no perfect formula, but most collectors aim for:

• Base Cards – Common, but necessary for sets

• Rookie Cards – Especially Young Guns from Series 1 & 2

• Autographs – On-card preferred, often numbered

• Parallel Cards – Variants like Exclusives and High Gloss 

• Memorabilia Cards – Game-worn jerseys, patches, and stick pieces

• Limited Edition Cards – Short prints, case hits, and promos

• Inserts – Unique designs like Clear Cut or Canvas

🎯 Want the best value? Check out Upper Deck Series 1 & 2 for entry-level rips, or The Cup for grail-level hits.

What to Consider When Buying NHL Cards

It’s a great time to collect, but make smart moves when you’re buying.

Where You Buy Them From

Buy from trusted sellers. Avoid loose packs from unknown sources. Stick with hobby shops like Cherry or sealed listings with great reviews.

Real vs. Fake

• Real NHL cards will have Upper Deck logos, clean holograms, and licensed team branding.

• Watch for poor print quality, off colours, or sketchy pricing.

Singles vs. Hobby Boxes & Packs

• Singles = Controlled buying. Great if you know what you want.

• Boxes = Thrill of the rip. Great for surprises and building sets.

Graded vs. Non-Graded

• Graded cards (PSA, BGS, CGC) are authenticated, slabbed, and valuable for display or resale.

• Raw cards are cheaper and great for collecting.

Best NHL Cards to Collect

Some of the top card types to chase include:

• Young Guns Rookies – Every year’s most hyped rookie cards

• The Cup RPAs – High-end autos with patches, often numbered /99 or lower

• 1-of-1s – Printing plates, Shields, and true one-offs

• Canvas and Clear Cut Inserts – Unique texture or acetate finishes

• Goalie gear memorabilia – Pads, sticks, gloves in the card!

What to Consider When Selling NHL Cards

Selling is part of the fun—especially when your card suddenly skyrockets.

Where to Sell Them

• Cherry Collectables (we buy collections!)

• eBay or Facebook marketplace

• Local trade nights and card shows

What Price Should You Sell Them At

Check:

• eBay sold comps

• PSA/BGS registry values

• Sites like 130point.com

Should You Hold or Sell?

• Hot rookies: Often sell high early, then dip

• Legends or short prints: Can climb over time

• Injured or cold players: Might bounce back—your call

How to Add Value

• Keep cards in mint condition

• Consider grading high-end or low-numbered cards

• Bundle popular teams or player sets

Are Hockey Cards Worth Collecting?

Absolutely. Hockey cards are one of the most underrated markets in the hobby.

• ⛸ Huge upside for rookie collectors

• 🧊 Loyal fanbase = steady demand

• 🏆 High-end cards like The Cup rival any NBA or NFL set in value

Whether you're in it for fun, profit, or team pride—NHL card collecting is a great place to be in 2025.

Get Started Collecting NHL Cards with Cherry Collectables

Cherry has everything you need to get started, including:

• NHL Singles

• Sealed Hobby Boxes & Packs
  

We also stock cards by team, player, and product—so whether you’re chasing Young Guns or building a PC, you’re in good hands.

👉 Start your NHL card collection now