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Best 2016 Panini Unparalleled Sports Cards Under $150 (2026 Budget Guide)

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The 2016 Panini Unparalleled set offers a deep bench of collectible talent accessible under a $150 budget, with ten distinct cards available at this price point. Notable inclusions within this price range feature football legends like Emmitt Smith at $150, John Elway also at $150, and Jerry Rice’s Autograph Blue card for $127.50, showcasing the potential for acquiring significant hobby pieces without breaking the bank.

TL;DR

For $150 or less, collectors can acquire ten legitimate 2016 Panini Unparalleled cards, led by Emmitt Smith’s [Autograph Blue] at $150 and John Elway’s [Gold] card at $150. This selection provides a strong entry point into the set, offering pieces of legendary status and significant rookie potential within a budget-friendly framework. The focus here is on securing iconic players and desirable parallels that have maintained value in the market. Last updated: 2026-10-28.

In This Article

• The Under-$150 Picks (Ranked Table)

• 1. Emmitt Smith [Autograph Blue] (Card #27)
• 1. John Elway [Gold] (Card #78)
• 1. Michael Strahan [Autograph Red] (Card #118)
• 1. Michael Strahan [Autograph Blue] (Card #118)
• 1. Eli Manning [Autograph Red] (Card #4)
• 1. Jared Goff [Autograph Jersey Prime Blue] (Card #201)
• 1. Vonn Bell [Green] (Card #199)
• 1. Adrian Peterson [Autograph Red] (Card #124)
• 1. Eli Manning [Dual Memorabilia] (Card #4)
• 1. Jerry Rice [Autograph Blue] (Card #63)

• How Far Does $600 Stretch?

• Where a PSA 10 Adds Little

• Frequently Asked Questions

The Under-$150 Picks

Data sources: What The Slab checks eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices.

1. Emmitt Smith [Autograph Blue] (Card #27)

Emmitt Smith’s legacy as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher is cemented, and his [Autograph Blue] card from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set at $150 offers a direct connection to this unparalleled career. This card features a vibrant blue parallel, enhancing its visual appeal, and a sought-after autograph from the Hall of Fame running back. For collectors looking to acquire a piece of NFL history without exceeding a $150 budget, this card represents a significant opportunity. Its appeal spans across collectors who value generational talent, iconic autographs, and the visual richness of premium Panini releases. Given the lack of PSA 10 data, focusing on the raw condition is key for this particular pick, making it a solid choice for those who appreciate the card’s intrinsic value and historical significance. This makes it a prime target for anyone aiming to build a collection of football’s greatest legends.

Buy Emmitt Smith Autograph Blue on eBay (active listings) Check Emmitt Smith Autograph Blue sold comps on eBay

2. John Elway [Gold] (Card #78)

John Elway’s name resonates with Super Bowl victories and a career defined by clutch performances. His [Gold] parallel from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, priced at $150, brings a piece of this legendary quarterback’s career into play for budget-conscious collectors. The Gold parallel offers a distinct shimmer and exclusivity, making it a visually appealing addition to any collection. This card is ideal for those who admire Elway’s enduring impact on the game and wish to own a tangible representation of his storied career. As with many high-end singles in this price range from the set, PSA 10 data is not readily available, underscoring the value proposition of the raw card itself. Collectors who appreciate quarterback royalty and the aesthetic of the gold finish will find this card a compelling acquisition.

Buy John Elway Gold on eBay (active listings) Check John Elway Gold sold comps on eBay

3. Michael Strahan [Autograph Red] (Card #118)

Michael Strahan’s transition from dominant defensive end to beloved media personality has secured his place in sports culture. His [Autograph Red] card, available for $149.99, captures a significant moment in his career with an autograph and a striking red parallel. This card appeals to a broad audience: football purists who remember his on-field dominance and fans who recognize him from television. For collectors aiming for top-tier defensive talent or those looking to add autographed pieces from prominent sports figures, this card is a strong contender. The lack of PSA 10 data for this specific card means its current market value is heavily tied to its raw condition and the authenticity of the autograph. It’s a fantastic pick for anyone wanting a piece of NFL history that also boasts significant pop culture recognition.

Buy Michael Strahan Autograph Red on eBay (active listings) Check Michael Strahan Autograph Red sold comps on eBay

4. Michael Strahan [Autograph Blue] (Card #118)

Complementing its red counterpart, the Michael Strahan [Autograph Blue] card from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, also priced at $149.99, offers another compelling autographed option for collectors. This blue parallel provides a slightly different visual flair, appealing to those who appreciate the full spectrum of Unparalleled’s color variations. Strahan’s status as a Hall of Famer and a household name ensures continued collector interest. This card is particularly suited for individuals building a comprehensive collection of iconic defensive players, or for those who simply want to own an autographed piece from a universally recognized sports figure. With no PSA 10 data available, the focus remains on acquiring a quality raw card that highlights Strahan’s enduring legacy. It’s an excellent choice for collectors who value both on-field achievement and brand recognition.

Buy Michael Strahan Autograph Blue on eBay (active listings) Check Michael Strahan Autograph Blue sold comps on eBay

5. Eli Manning [Autograph Red] (Card #4)

Eli Manning’s two Super Bowl MVP awards have etched his name in NFL history, and his [Autograph Red] card from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, listed at $147.50, provides an excellent opportunity to own a piece of his legacy. The red parallel adds a touch of vibrancy, and his signature connects collectors directly to the quarterback who led the New York Giants to championship glory. This card is a prime target for collectors focusing on prominent New York sports figures, Super Bowl heroes, or quarterbacks with significant career achievements. Given the absence of PSA 10 sales data, the raw card’s condition and the autograph’s quality are paramount. It’s a fantastic value for a dual Super Bowl champion, offering a significant piece of modern NFL history within the $150 budget.

Buy Eli Manning Autograph Red on eBay (active listings) Check Eli Manning Autograph Red sold comps on eBay

6. Jared Goff [Autograph Jersey Prime Blue] (Card #201)

For collectors eyeing the future of the NFL, the Jared Goff [Autograph Jersey Prime Blue] card at $142.50 presents a compelling case. This card features a rookie autograph from Goff, a quarterback who has demonstrated significant talent and led his team to the Super Bowl. The “Jersey Prime Blue” designation indicates a high-quality swatch of game-worn material and a desirable blue parallel, enhancing its collectible appeal. This pick is ideal for collectors who focus on modern stars with established careers and potential for future growth, or for those looking to acquire high-grade autographed rookie cards. With no PSA 10 data available, the raw card’s condition is crucial. It represents a smart investment for those willing to bet on a quarterback who has already achieved elite status.

Buy Jared Goff Autograph Jersey Prime Blue on eBay (active listings) Check Jared Goff Autograph Jersey Prime Blue sold comps on eBay

7. Vonn Bell [Green] (Card #199)

The Vonn Bell [Green] card, priced at $142.28, offers collectors a chance to acquire a piece of the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set with a visually appealing green parallel. While Bell may not have the same legendary status as some other players on this list, his consistent performance as a defensive back makes this card a solid pick for dedicated set builders or those who appreciate the aesthetic of these Unparalleled parallels. The green colorway provides a distinct look that stands out in a collection. This card is best suited for collectors focused on completing the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set or those who find value in well-executed, less-hyped parallels of solid NFL contributors. The absence of PSA 10 data means the raw card’s condition and the appeal of the green finish are the primary drivers of its value.

Buy Vonn Bell Green on eBay (active listings) Check Vonn Bell Green sold comps on eBay

8. Adrian Peterson [Autograph Red] (Card #124)

Adrian Peterson’s powerful runs and MVP season have made him one of the most memorable running backs of his generation. His [Autograph Red] card from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, available for $140.00, brings a significant piece of his career into play for collectors. The red parallel offers a bold aesthetic, and his autograph adds a layer of scarcity and personal connection. This card is a must-have for collectors who admire Peterson’s exceptional talent and physical dominance, or for those building a comprehensive collection of running back legends. Given the lack of PSA 10 data, the raw card’s condition and the autograph’s clarity are paramount. It represents excellent value for an athlete who achieved elite status and remains a highly collectible figure in the hobby.

Buy Adrian Peterson Autograph Red on eBay (active listings) Check Adrian Peterson Autograph Red sold comps on eBay

9. Eli Manning [Dual Memorabilia] (Card #4)

Eli Manning’s [Dual Memorabilia] card, priced at $129.99, offers collectors a tangible connection to the two-time Super Bowl champion through embedded game-used pieces. This card goes beyond a simple autograph or parallel, incorporating elements directly from his playing career, making it a richer collectible for those who appreciate memorabilia. It’s an ideal acquisition for collectors of Eli Manning, Giants memorabilia, or anyone who values cards that tell a more complete story of a player’s career. The inclusion of dual memorabilia adds significant visual and historical interest. As with many cards in this price bracket, PSA 10 data is not available, placing the focus on the raw card’s condition and the appeal of the memorabilia pieces. This card is a strong value for a legendary quarterback.

Buy Eli Manning Dual Memorabilia on eBay (active listings) Check Eli Manning Dual Memorabilia sold comps on eBay

10. Jerry Rice [Autograph Blue] (Card #63)

Jerry Rice is universally regarded as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, and his [Autograph Blue] card from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, priced at $127.50, represents one of the most accessible ways to own an autographed piece of his legendary career. The blue parallel provides a clean and attractive look, and the autograph adds significant collector appeal. This card is an absolute cornerstone for any serious football collector, particularly those focused on all-time greats. Given the absence of PSA 10 data, the focus is on acquiring a high-quality raw card that showcases Rice’s iconic status. For its price point, this card offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of NFL royalty within a reasonable budget, making it a top contender for any collector.

Buy Jerry Rice Autograph Blue on eBay (active listings) Check Jerry Rice Autograph Blue sold comps on eBay

How Far Does $600 Stretch?

If you’re looking to build a more substantial collection from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set within a higher budget, consider this potential bundle:

• Stretch budget: $600.00

• Jerry Rice [Autograph Blue] at $127.50 -> running total $127.50

• Eli Manning [Dual Memorabilia] at $129.99 -> running total $257.49

• Adrian Peterson [Autograph Red] at $140.00 -> running total $397.49

• Vonn Bell [Green] at $142.28 -> running total $539.77

This bundle of four cards totals $539.77, leaving you with $60.23 leftover from a $600 budget. This collection strategically prioritizes iconic Hall of Fame talent (Rice, Peterson) alongside a significant modern quarterback with memorabilia (Manning) and a visually appealing parallel from a solid player (Bell). It offers a mix of autograph, memorabilia, and prime parallel cards, providing a strong foundation of valuable pieces from the set.

Where a PSA 10 Adds Little

For many cards in the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, the difference between a raw card and a PSA 10 grade is substantial, driving up the value significantly. However, within the under-$150 tier, the data indicates that for some cards, the premium for a PSA 10 grade, if it were available, might not add as dramatic a multiplier to the raw price. For example, the Vonn Bell [Green] card is listed at $142.28 raw, with no PSA 10 data. This suggests that for certain cards focusing on non-superstar players or non-autograph parallels, the primary value proposition lies in acquiring the raw card in excellent condition rather than chasing a graded gem. The absence of available PSA 10 data for all the cards in this under-$150 list means the current market value is firmly anchored to the raw card’s sale price.

Pro Tip: When assessing the value of autographed cards from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set, especially within the budget-friendly tiers, always prioritize the clarity and placement of the autograph. For cards like the Emmitt Smith [Autograph Blue] or Jerry Rice [Autograph Blue], a well-executed signature that doesn’t obstruct key elements of the card art can command a premium in the raw market, even without a grade. Look for signatures that are clean, bold, and centrally located.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set collectible?

The 2016 Panini Unparalleled set is collectible due to its premium design, inclusion of top NFL stars, and a variety of autograph and memorabilia inserts. The set features cards of legends like Emmitt Smith and Jerry Rice, alongside modern stars such as Jared Goff, making it appealing to collectors interested in both historical significance and potential future value. The diverse parallels and autograph options add depth for dedicated set builders.

Can I build a meaningful collection from this set for under $150?

Yes, you can build a meaningful collection from the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set for under $150. As this guide shows, there are ten distinct cards available within this budget, including autographed cards from legends like Jerry Rice ($127.50) and dual memorabilia cards from Eli Manning ($129.99). This allows for the acquisition of significant hobby pieces representing iconic players.

Are there any rookie cards from top prospects in the under-$150 tier?

Yes, the Jared Goff [Autograph Jersey Prime Blue] card, available for $142.50, represents a rookie autographed card from a highly regarded modern quarterback. While other top prospects might not fall into this specific under-$150 list for this set, Goff’s inclusion provides an opportunity for collectors to acquire a promising player’s early autographed card within the budget.

What is the appeal of the parallels like Green, Blue, and Red in this set?

The appeal of parallels like Green, Blue, and Red in the 2016 Panini Unparalleled set lies in their visual distinction and rarity compared to base cards. These colors offer collectors different aesthetic choices and can signify a tiered rarity structure within the set, adding an extra layer of collectibility and potential value. For instance, Vonn Bell’s [Green] card ($142.28) or Eli Manning’s [Autograph Red] card ($147.50) offer unique visual identities.

Where can I find more information on 2016 Panini Unparalleled card values?

For more detailed information on 2016 Panini Unparalleled card values, consulting resources like eBay sold listings and PriceCharting is recommended. These platforms provide verified sales data that reflects current market trends for both raw and graded cards, offering collectors a solid basis for making informed purchasing decisions. The data used in this guide is derived from such verified sources.

The 2016 Panini Unparalleled set continues to be a strong contender for collectors seeking iconic players and visually appealing cards without a prohibitive cost. With numerous options available under $150, including autographs from legends and well-executed parallels, this set offers significant value for building a diverse and impressive football card collection.

Explore more budget-friendly guides and the latest sports card market analysis at our Sports Cards hub.

Data: PriceCharting · eBay sold listings. Analysis: What The Slab. How we get our numbers.

Price data, not financial advice. Past sales don't predict future value. We may earn a commission on eBay, TCGplayer and Amazon links.