What makes 1981 Topps football cards collectible?

1981 Topps football cards are sought after for their iconic design, historical significance in early-1980s cardboard, and nostalgic appeal. The set captures an important era of NFL collecting before the modern graded market, making vintage copies attractive to both casual collectors and serious investors.

How do I identify an authentic 1981 Topps card?

Authentic 1981 Topps cards feature the distinctive Topps logo, consistent card stock and printing quality, and accurate team/player information matching official NFL rosters from that season. Comparing your card to certified reference images and reputable dealer listings helps confirm authenticity.

Should I collect individual 1981 Topps cards or pursue a complete set?

Both approaches work depending on your goals. Collecting individual cards like the Brahaney allows you to focus on specific players, teams, or positions without the commitment of a full set. Complete set collecting appeals to those seeking comprehensive 1981 Topps documentation and long-term investment potential.

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1981 Topps Tom Brahaney #178 football trading card front — Tom Brahaney 1981 Topps #178 - Football Trading Card

About this card

Collect the 1981 Topps Tom Brahaney #178 football card featuring the St. Louis Cardinals player from Topps' classic early-1980s design.

Tom Brahaney

Name: 1981 Topps Tom Brahaney #178
Brand: topps
SKU: sports_card_01KK75NJPQ009NDHA4Z6JHJM4G

1981 • Topps

NFL • St. Louis Cardinals

1981 Topps NFL St. Louis Cardinals Near Mint

Best available offer

$4.99

1 available

Market: $1.99

151% above

Based on eBay Sold Listings · 5 sales sampledLast updated May 6, 2026 at 9:02 AM

Condition

Near Mint

Card Number

178

Primary seller

SuperCatch

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Price History

Product overview

Description

The 1981 Topps Tom Brahaney #178 is a vintage football card from one of the most recognizable sports card sets of the early 1980s. Topps' 1981 football release captures the era's design aesthetic with bold typography and vibrant team colors that defined the period. This card documents Brahaney's tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals, making it a valuable addition for collectors focused on Cardinals history, 1980s football memorabilia, or Topps vintage sets. The 1981 Topps football set remains popular among vintage collectors seeking affordable entry points into early-decade cardboard, and individual cards like this Brahaney offer specific player and team appeal. Whether you're completing a set, building a Cardinals collection, or investing in 1980s sports cards, the 1981 Topps Brahaney provides authentic vintage character and historical documentation. SuperCatch makes it easy to find and compare copies of this classic card across multiple conditions and price points.

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Product specs

Card Details

The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.

Catalog profile

The core identity of the card within the set.

Year

1981

Brand

Topps

Card Number

#178

Featured subject

The player, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.

Featured

Tom Brahaney

Team

St. Louis Cardinals

League

NFL

Sport

Football

Print details

Production details and format-specific attributes.

Material

Card Stock

Language

English

Tom Brahaney

$4.99

Price History

Description

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