Unboxing The 2019 Select Football Hobby Box: A Collector's Guide

Hey sports card fanatics! Ready to dive into the exciting world of 2019 Select Football Hobby Boxes? This year, let's explore what makes this particular release so sought after. This box is more than just cardboard and shiny foil; it's a treasure chest of potential investments and, of course, the thrill of the chase for those rare rookie cards and autographs. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, understanding the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box can seriously amp up your collecting game. So, grab your magnifying glasses (just kidding... unless you want to!), and let's get into what makes this box a must-have for any football card enthusiast. We'll look at the box's highlights, what you can expect to find, and some tips on maximizing your collecting experience. Let's unwrap this thing and see what's inside, shall we?

What Makes the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box Special?

So, what's all the buzz about the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box? Well, first off, it's the Select brand itself. Select is known for its unique design and quality, offering a premium feel that sets it apart from your run-of-the-mill card packs. But beyond the aesthetics, it's the chase – the hunt for the biggest rookies and most valuable cards – that really gets collectors' hearts racing. The 2019 Select Football Hobby Box typically includes a mix of different card types and variations, each offering a unique collecting opportunity. You can find base cards, parallels (like the popular Silver and Gold Prizm cards), autographs, and even rare inserts. The variety is a big part of the fun, as you never know exactly what you’re going to get. This unpredictability keeps the thrill alive with every pack you open. The Select brand features a distinct three-tier base set (Concourse, Premier, and Field Level) that adds another layer of collectibility. Each level has different parallel options, providing a spectrum of cards to chase. This tiered structure is a great way to show off your collection. Plus, the overall design is always sleek and modern, which looks great when displaying your favorite cards. The excitement comes from the potential to pull a Justin Herbert or Joe Burrow rookie card and the chance of pulling a rare autograph from a top player. It is not just about the cards; it's about the experience, the community, and the memories you create while opening these packs with your friends.

Notable Rookie Cards and Autographs

When we're talking about the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box, it is impossible not to mention the rookies. This is where the real value lies, and the 2019 class was loaded with talent! You have your potential franchise quarterbacks. Imagine pulling a Justin Herbert rookie card! This kind of discovery can be the highlight of your day, not to mention a serious boost to your collection's value. Aside from rookies, you've got autographs, which are even more exciting. These cards come in various forms, from on-card signatures to those with special inscriptions. These cards can become the centerpiece of any collection. Finding one with a high grade can be an incredible win. The presence of these rookies and autographs is a big factor in why this box remains so popular among collectors.

The Prizm Factor: Parallels and Inserts

One of the biggest draws of 2019 Select Football is the Prizm parallels and the inserts. Prizms are what make this set visually stunning. The shiny, vibrant, and multi-colored backgrounds make the cards pop and attract attention. You've got your standard silver prizms, plus a rainbow of colors to chase. Finding a rare Gold Prizm or Black Prizm can be a real thrill. The variety of colors also appeals to collectors, who enjoy completing rainbow sets. In addition to parallels, the inserts in the 2019 Select set add another layer of excitement. These inserts can include themed sets, short-printed cards, or even die-cut designs. These inserts often feature rookie cards, making them even more sought after. They are a great way to add diversity to your collection and potentially score a valuable card. The Prizms and inserts add a lot of fun to the opening experience.

Diving into the Box: What to Expect

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: What can you actually expect to find inside a 2019 Select Football Hobby Box? Each box typically contains 10 packs, with each pack holding 5 cards. You'll likely find a mix of base cards, a few different parallels, and maybe an autograph or two. The goal is to maximize your chances of pulling valuable rookie cards, high-end parallels, and rare inserts. Knowing this distribution will help you manage your expectations and enjoy the opening experience more. Don't be surprised if you don't find a big hit in every pack.

Base Cards and Parallels Breakdown

The base cards in the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box feature the stars of the season, from rising rookies to established veterans. While base cards are great for completing sets, it's the parallels that really get collectors excited. Parallels are variations of the base cards, with different colors and finishes. The most common and accessible is the Silver Prizm. However, the real excitement comes with the rarer parallels, like the Gold Prizm, Blue Prizm, Purple Prizm, and the super-rare Black Prizm. These are short-printed, meaning fewer copies were made, and their value is often significantly higher. Identifying these parallels is key to understanding the value of your box. Make sure you know what to look for and how to spot the difference between the base card and the parallel.

Autographs and Memorabilia: The Big Hits

Of course, the biggest thrill comes with the chance of pulling an autograph or a piece of memorabilia. These cards are highly sought after by collectors, particularly those featuring top rookies or established stars. The autographs in the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box are usually signed on-card, meaning the autograph is directly on the card, rather than on a sticker. This adds to the appeal and value. Memorabilia cards, featuring a piece of a game-worn jersey or other item, are also highly desirable. These cards add a unique element to your collection. The value of these cards can vary greatly, depending on the player, the rarity, and the condition of the card. Understanding grading and card condition is crucial for maximizing the value of your pulls.

Maximizing Your Collecting Experience

Okay, so you've got your 2019 Select Football Hobby Box. Now what? Here are a few tips to maximize your collecting experience and enjoy the thrill of the hobby.

Organizing and Protecting Your Cards

First things first: organization and protection! As soon as you pull your cards, sort them by player, team, and type (base, parallel, autograph, etc.). This will make it easier to see what you have, what you're missing, and what might be valuable. Then, invest in some good card protection. Use penny sleeves to protect each card individually, then put them in top loaders (rigid plastic holders) to prevent bending and damage. If you're really serious, you can get graded cards from companies like PSA or BGS, which can increase the value and give you peace of mind about the card's condition. The right storage and organization can ensure that your cards will be in good condition. Consider using binders or storage boxes to keep your collection safe.

Research and Value Assessment

Knowledge is power! Before you start trading or selling, do your research. Check online price guides (like Beckett or Cardboard Connection) to get an idea of the current market value of your cards. Consider using online marketplaces like eBay and check the recent sales of similar cards. This will give you a good sense of what people are paying. Keep an eye out for news and trends in the hobby, which can impact card values. The more you know, the better decisions you'll make when it comes to collecting, trading, and selling.

Connecting with the Collecting Community

One of the best parts of the hobby is the community. Connect with other collectors online (forums, Facebook groups, Reddit) or at local card shops and shows. These communities are great places to trade, buy, and sell cards. They can also offer valuable advice and insights. Being part of a collecting community can enhance your experience and make the hobby more fun. If you have the chance, check out local card shows. It is a fantastic way to meet fellow collectors and potentially find some great deals. Remember, collecting should be fun, so enjoy the experience!

Final Thoughts: Is the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box Worth It?

So, is the 2019 Select Football Hobby Box worth the investment? That depends on what you're looking for. If you're after a high-quality product with a chance at pulling valuable rookie cards and autographs, then absolutely, it is. The thrill of the chase, the unique design of Select cards, and the potential for a big hit make this box a great option for collectors of all levels. However, it's also important to remember that there's always an element of chance involved. You might not pull a high-value card, and you should be prepared for that. If you approach it with the right mindset – focusing on the fun of collecting, the joy of opening packs, and the excitement of the hunt – then you can't go wrong. Happy collecting, everyone!