Panini’s latest Optic set has been on a tear since it was released earlier this month. After Prizm and Select, collectors have a new reason to hunt the hottest All-Stars and rookies from this product. And without a doubt, the biggest name everyone is gunning for is no other than the Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball.
But while most collectors would be happy with his base Rated Rookie, the ultimate goal is to pull that LaMelo Ball card that will leave everyone in absolute awe. As it turns out, that pursuit has become a reality.
Struck Gold!
For many people, the top card in Optic basketball was pulled a few days ago by @pricelesscollection901. (Instagram) That card is the Lamelo ball gold Vinyl 1/1! What will it go for? #thehobby #sportscards #sportscardsnonsense #whodoyoucollect#lamelo pic.twitter.com/dpVVhGxWvW
— Sports Cards Nonsense (@SCN_Pod) September 24, 2021




In a post shared by Sports Cards Nonsense, a 2020 Panini Optic Rated Rookie Gold Vinyl 1-of-1 LaMelo Ball car has been found. The lucky collector, who goes by pricelesscollection901 on Instagram, has also shown images of the massive pull as well.
Since it’s the only one of its kind in existence, determining the value of this card can’t be done right now. The closest value that can be used is those that can be readily found using eBay’s sold listings feature. As of now, the most expensive LaMelo Ball 1-of-1 is his 2020 National Treasures Personalized auto, which is worth $15,200. In second place is a 2020 Noir Association Platinum card, which recently sold for $5,100.
It’s safe to say that Ball’s Optic Rated Rookie card will be valued somewhere in between those figures. It can even go higher, especially if it gets a good grade from PSA or BGS. Nevertheless, this is one wicked card that can only get better in time.