2023 Select Football Hanger Packs: Your Complete Guide

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey football fans! If you're diving into the world of football card collecting, especially the 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs, you've come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these popular packs. We’re talking about what makes them special, what you can expect to find inside, and why they’re such a hit with collectors. So, grab your magnifying glass and let's get started!

What are 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs?

2023 Select Football Hanger Packs are a specific type of retail product from Panini’s Select football card series. For those new to the hobby, Panini is the exclusive licensed manufacturer of NFL trading cards, and their Select series is known for its tiered design and variety of parallels. These hanger packs are essentially a more affordable way to get your hands on Select cards compared to hobby boxes, which can be quite pricey. The hanger packs are designed to hang on store shelves, hence the name. Inside each pack, you'll typically find a handful of cards, including base cards, inserts, and maybe even a rare parallel or two if you're lucky. The beauty of hanger packs lies in their accessibility; you can find them at major retailers like Walmart and Target, making them a convenient option for collectors of all levels. Plus, the thrill of potentially pulling a valuable card without breaking the bank adds to their appeal. Each pack generally contains around five cards, offering a mix of base cards, inserts, and the occasional parallel. While the odds of pulling a high-value autograph or memorabilia card are lower compared to hobby boxes, the affordability and availability of hanger packs make them a popular choice for casual collectors and those just starting out. They offer a taste of the high-end Select product at a fraction of the cost, making them a fun and accessible way to engage with the hobby.

Why Choose Select Football Cards?

When it comes to football card collecting, Select Football cards stand out for several reasons. First and foremost, the design is just fantastic. Panini's Select series is well-regarded in the card collecting community due to its distinctive multi-tiered base set. The tiered structure typically includes three levels: Concourse, Premier Level, and Field Level. Each tier features different designs and varying degrees of scarcity, adding depth and collectibility to the set. Concourse is generally the most common, while Field Level cards are the rarest and most sought after. The visual appeal is undeniable, with vibrant colors, dynamic action shots, and a sleek, modern look that catches the eye. But it's not just about looks. Select cards also offer a great range of variety. You'll find base cards featuring current NFL stars, rookies, and even retired legends. Additionally, Select is known for its impressive array of insert sets, which focus on different themes, player categories, and designs. These inserts often feature eye-catching graphics, unique materials, and limited print runs, making them highly desirable among collectors. The tiered design of the base set itself adds another layer of collectibility, with different levels of rarity and visual appeal. On top of all that, Select cards hold their value relatively well compared to some other sets. This is due to a combination of factors, including the strong design, the popularity of the players featured, and the overall reputation of the Select brand. Of course, like any collectible, the value of a specific card depends on its condition, rarity, and the player featured. However, in general, Select cards tend to maintain their value over time, making them a solid choice for both collecting and potential investment.

Unboxing and What to Expect

Alright, so you've got your hands on a 2023 Select Football Hanger Pack. What can you realistically expect to find inside? Let's break it down. First off, don't go in expecting to pull a Tom Brady autograph in every pack. Hanger packs are designed to be affordable, so the odds of hitting those ultra-rare cards are definitely lower than in hobby boxes. However, that doesn't mean they're not worth opening! Typically, each hanger pack contains about five cards. The majority of these will be base cards. Base cards are the foundation of any set, featuring standard player photos and information. While they might not be the most valuable on their own, completing the base set can be a fun and rewarding goal. Inserts are where things get a little more interesting. These are special cards with unique designs and themes that are inserted into packs at a lower frequency than base cards. Inserts can range from action shots and player highlights to themed sets focusing on specific achievements or milestones. Keep an eye out for names like Phenomenon, Select Certified, and Rookie Revolution—these are some of the popular insert sets you might encounter. Parallels are essentially variations of base cards or inserts that feature different colors, patterns, or finishes. They're typically numbered, indicating the total number of that specific parallel that exists. Parallels can add significant value to a card, especially if they're low-numbered or feature a popular player. While autographs and memorabilia cards are rare in hanger packs, they're not impossible to find. These cards feature either a player's signature or a piece of game-used memorabilia, such as a jersey swatch or a piece of a football. Pulling one of these cards is like hitting the jackpot! Remember, opening hanger packs is all about the thrill of the hunt. While you might not get rich quick, you're sure to have a good time ripping packs and adding to your collection. And who knows, you might just get lucky and pull a valuable card that makes it all worthwhile.

Key Players to Look For

When diving into 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs, knowing which players to look out for can add an extra layer of excitement to your collecting experience. Obviously, the superstar quarterbacks are always a good place to start. Names like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow are perennial favorites among collectors, and their cards tend to hold significant value. Keep an eye out for their base cards, inserts, and especially any limited-edition parallels or autographs. Rookie cards are another hot commodity in the football card world. The 2023 season saw the emergence of several promising young players, and their rookie cards are highly sought after. Bijan Robinson is one of the key rookies to watch for in 2023 Select Football. As a highly-touted running back, his rookie cards have been generating a lot of buzz. Also, keep an eye out for other notable rookies like Jahmyr Gibbs, Zay Flowers, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, whose cards could become valuable as their careers progress. Veteran players who have consistently performed at a high level also tend to be popular among collectors. Guys like Travis Kelce, Davante Adams, and Aaron Donald are always in demand, and their cards can be a great addition to any collection. Beyond the big names, don't overlook the potential value of cards featuring players who have a strong local following or those who are poised for a breakout season. Sometimes, these lesser-known players can become surprise hits, and their cards can see a significant increase in value. Remember, the football card market is constantly evolving, so it's always a good idea to stay informed about which players are generating buzz and which cards are trending. Doing your research and targeting specific players can help you maximize your chances of pulling a valuable card from your 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs.

Tips for Buying and Storing Your Cards

So, you're ready to stock up on 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs? Awesome! But before you go on a buying spree, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First off, compare prices from different retailers. Hanger packs are widely available at major stores like Walmart and Target, as well as online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon. Prices can vary, so it's worth doing a little research to make sure you're getting the best deal. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially around holidays or major sporting events. These can be a great opportunity to snag hanger packs at a discounted price. When buying online, be sure to check the seller's feedback and reputation. You want to make sure you're dealing with a reputable seller who is selling authentic products. Avoid buying from sellers with low ratings or negative feedback, as there's a higher risk of getting scammed. Once you've got your cards, proper storage is essential to maintaining their condition and value. Invest in some good-quality card sleeves and top loaders to protect your cards from scratches, dents, and other damage. Sleeves are thin plastic coverings that slide over the card, while top loaders are rigid plastic holders that provide additional support. Store your sleeved and top-loaded cards in a binder or storage box designed specifically for trading cards. This will help keep them organized and prevent them from getting bent or damaged. Avoid storing your cards in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade over time. Also, keep them away from moisture and extreme temperatures, as these can also damage the cards. Handle your cards with care, and avoid touching the surface of the card with your bare hands. The oils from your skin can damage the card over time. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your 2023 Select Football Cards stay in top condition for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Alright, guys, that's the lowdown on 2023 Select Football Hanger Packs! Hopefully, this guide has given you a solid understanding of what these packs are all about, what you can expect to find inside, and how to make the most of your collecting experience. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, hanger packs are a fun and affordable way to get your fix of football cards. Remember, it's not just about the value of the cards you pull. It's about the thrill of the hunt, the excitement of opening packs, and the joy of building your collection. So, go out there, grab some hanger packs, and start ripping! And who knows, you might just find that hidden gem that makes it all worthwhile. Happy collecting, and may the odds be ever in your favor!