2017 Donruss Optic Football: A Collector's Guide

Hey sports card enthusiasts! Ever felt that thrill of ripping open a pack, hoping to find a gem? Well, if you're into football cards, specifically those with a shimmering, flashy appeal, then the 2017 Donruss Optic Football set is definitely worth a look. This year’s edition brought the popular Optic treatment to the Donruss brand, offering collectors a modern, vibrant take on their favorite players. In this guide, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about the 2017 Donruss Optic Football set. We'll explore the key features, the chase cards, and what makes this set a solid addition to any football card collection. So, buckle up, grab your coffee (or your favorite beverage), and let's get started!

What Makes 2017 Donruss Optic Football Special?

Alright, so what’s the big deal about 2017 Donruss Optic Football, you ask? Well, it's all about the aesthetics, guys! The Optic line takes the classic Donruss designs and gives them a makeover with a dazzling, chromium-like finish. This makes the cards pop, and they really stand out from the standard cardboard offerings. The Optic cards utilize a process that gives them a glossy, almost holographic sheen, which is seriously eye-catching. The 2017 Donruss Optic Football set includes a wide array of cards, including base cards, rated rookies, and a variety of inserts. The set is structured in a way that gives collectors a lot of different avenues to collect, whether you are after rookies, veterans, or chasing after some of the rarer inserts. The Optic cards also tend to have a better feel than the base cards. They are generally thicker and of a higher quality, which adds to their collectability. The introduction of Optic to the Donruss brand created a surge of interest and appeal for football card collectors, especially those who appreciate the modern look and feel of chrome cards. The overall presentation is clean and the design elements are well-executed, making them attractive to both new and experienced collectors. The quality and design of these cards is a step above the regular Donruss set, with a more premium feel that justifies their higher value. The 2017 Donruss Optic Football set offered a great entry point for collectors looking for cards with a premium feel but without the higher price tag of some other brands. The base cards provide a solid foundation for any collection, while the inserts offer a thrilling chase for those looking for something special.

The Allure of the Chromium Finish

The chromium finish is really the star of the show, my friends. This shiny, reflective surface gives the cards a unique look that has become a hallmark of the Optic brand. The chrome coating is applied to the card stock, which adds to its durability and gives it a glossy appearance. The cards practically shimmer in the light, making them a real pleasure to look at. The chrome finish also gives the cards a modern feel that distinguishes them from the more traditional card designs. When a card is chrome, it's a game-changer. It makes it pop off the page, and the overall look of the card is a lot more attractive. It’s what gives the Optic cards that extra “wow” factor, and it's a big reason why they're so popular. The chromium finish isn't just about looks, either. The chrome finish also offers a degree of protection, which is essential for valuable cards. It gives the cards a premium look and feel. The shiny surface adds to its collectability and value. The vibrant colors and the reflective surface really make the players stand out. The chromium finish creates a visual experience, setting the Optic cards apart from the competition. It's the primary reason the set is so widely sought after by collectors.

Key Cards to Watch Out For

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the cards you really want to find in those packs! The 2017 Donruss Optic Football set is packed with some incredible cards, particularly when it comes to the rookie class. This set has some of the most sought-after rookie cards. So, when it comes to key cards, it's all about the rookies. Here are some of the most desirable cards you should be on the lookout for, and some information about why you should care.

Patrick Mahomes Rookie Cards

Patrick Mahomes, guys, is one of the biggest names in the NFL right now. Finding his rookie cards in 2017 Donruss Optic Football is like striking gold. Because, who doesn't want a Mahomes rookie card? His performance on the field has made his cards highly valuable. The Mahomes rookie cards are consistently at the top of many collectors' wish lists. These cards have seen some serious price jumps since Mahomes became a star. They are a must-have for any serious football card collector. Any Mahomes rookie card is a great investment for the future. The value of these cards will likely keep increasing as his career progresses. So, if you manage to pull a Mahomes rookie, consider yourself very lucky. Whether it’s the base rookie, or one of the many parallels, any Mahomes rookie card is a valuable addition to your collection.

Deshaun Watson Rookie Cards

Deshaun Watson was another highly anticipated rookie, and his cards are also highly valued. Watson had a promising start to his NFL career. His rookie cards, especially the Optic versions, are very desirable. Watson’s dynamic playing style and impressive performances made his cards popular among collectors. Watson’s cards are a great investment for the future. They are a great addition to any collection. The value of Watson’s cards will likely keep increasing as his career progresses. So, if you happen to find a Watson rookie, hold on to it.

Other Notable Rookies

Other rookies to keep an eye out for include Christian McCaffrey, Dalvin Cook, Joe Mixon, and Marshon Lattimore. These players were highly touted coming out of college, and their cards are also in high demand. The 2017 Donruss Optic Football set features a lot of talent, so keep an eye on these players. These players have become stars in the NFL, and their cards are highly valuable. The rookie class in the 2017 Donruss Optic Football set is full of potential. These are just a few of the rookies that have become key players in the NFL. When hunting through packs, make sure you look out for these rookie cards, as they’re likely to be some of the most valuable in your collection. These rookies became stars in the league, so these are a great investment.

Exploring the Inserts and Parallels

Beyond the base cards, the 2017 Donruss Optic Football set offers a variety of inserts and parallels. These cards add an extra layer of excitement for collectors. So, let’s explore these cool variations. They often feature different designs, colors, and limited print runs. These insert sets are designed to offer collectors a way to collect cards that are more exclusive and hard to find. They provide unique designs and rare variations of the base cards.

The Popular Inserts

• Rated Rookies: These are some of the most popular inserts in the set, featuring the top rookies from the draft class. They're highly sought after. They offer a great way to showcase the top rookies from the draft class. These inserts are usually in high demand, and they are essential for any collector trying to obtain all the key rookies. Collectors love these inserts, which are known for their unique designs and player selection.
• Optic Rated Rookies: These are the Optic versions of the Rated Rookies, and they are incredibly popular. These inserts combine the popular Rated Rookie design with the Optic finish. These inserts have some great designs and feature some of the top rookies in the league. The Optic treatment enhances the already exciting design of the Rated Rookies.
• Downtown Inserts: Downtown inserts are among the most sought after. They feature a unique city-themed design. These inserts are extremely rare. They add a level of thrill to the set due to their rarity. The Downtown inserts are known for their cool designs. These inserts often feature dynamic artwork and eye-catching designs.

The Wide Array of Parallels

Parallels are variations of the base cards and inserts that feature different colors or finishes. They are usually limited to specific print runs. These parallels enhance the appeal and value of the cards. The parallels in this set are a fantastic addition, and are sought after by many collectors. There are many different parallels to collect. They add a great touch of variety to the set. They can be really exciting to pull from packs. The rarity of parallels adds a level of intrigue to the set. They come in a wide variety of colors and finishes. Here's a brief look at some of the key parallels.

• Holo: This is the base Optic parallel, featuring a holographic design. These cards are common, but they're still visually appealing.
• Contenders Optic: These have a more classic design. They are very collectible and visually attractive.
• Various Colored Parallels: The set includes a range of color variations, such as red, blue, green, and gold. The more limited the print run, the more valuable the card. Some parallels are extremely rare, and can fetch significant prices. Some of the rarer parallels can be worth a lot of money. These are more valuable and sought after by collectors.

Tips for Collecting 2017 Donruss Optic Football

Ready to jump into collecting 2017 Donruss Optic Football, but not sure where to start? Let’s make sure you start off strong, my friends. Here are some key tips that can help you along the way.

Understanding the Set's Structure

First, familiarize yourself with the set's composition. Knowing how the base cards, inserts, and parallels are organized will help you. Understanding the structure can help you when trading, buying, and selling cards. Understand the set's composition so you know what cards you're looking for. Make sure you know the different card variations. This will help you identify the cards you are looking for.

Know the Values

Do your research on card values. Use online resources like eBay and price guides to get an idea. Knowing the value of a card will prevent you from overpaying. Knowing the value of a card can help you. Knowing the value of a card ensures fair trading practices. Knowing the value of cards can help with your collection strategy.

Protecting Your Collection

Once you have these cards, it's essential to protect your investment. Use card sleeves, top loaders, and a binder to safeguard your cards. The physical condition of a card is very important. Always be sure to handle them with care. Protective measures help retain the card's value. Make sure you keep your cards protected from damage.

Trading and Buying Strategies

Be smart when trading. Research card values and negotiate trades. When buying, set a budget, and stick to it. Trade with trusted collectors to ensure smooth transactions. When buying, make sure you know what you're buying. Look for reputable sellers to reduce risk. It's important to do your research on card values before trading or buying.

Where to Find 2017 Donruss Optic Football Cards?

So, where do you find these shiny beauties? The hunt is part of the fun, right? Here are the best places to find 2017 Donruss Optic Football cards.

Hobby Shops

Local card shops are the best places. These shops often have packs and boxes of older sets. Card shops can also offer a great community. You can chat and trade with other collectors. Local card shops often have a variety of products. They are also knowledgeable about the hobby.

Online Marketplaces

Websites like eBay, COMC, and others are great places to find single cards. These sites offer a wide selection of cards. These sites are good if you are looking for a specific card. Online marketplaces can be an easy way to build your collection.

Trading and Collecting Communities

Join online communities to trade and learn about cards. These communities are also a great way to learn about the cards. These communities provide great information. Collecting communities can help you find cards. These communities are a great resource for learning.

Conclusion: Is 2017 Donruss Optic Football Worth Collecting?

So, should you dive into 2017 Donruss Optic Football? Absolutely! This set offers a great combination of visual appeal, key rookie cards, and a reasonable price point. The chromium finish gives the cards an eye-catching look. The variety of inserts and parallels provides a thrilling chase. The set contains some really valuable rookie cards. This set is a fantastic addition to any collection. The 2017 Donruss Optic Football set is well worth collecting. If you are a fan of football cards, then you should consider this set. It provides a modern, attractive look. It also offers some great value for collectors. It's a fun and rewarding set to collect, whether you are just starting or are an experienced collector. So, start ripping packs and enjoy the thrill of the hunt!

Happy collecting, and may the odds be ever in your favor when you're ripping those packs!