Top 10 Most Valuable Don Bradman Cards Every Collector Should Know

Sir Donald Bradman isn’t just a cricket legend — he’s a cultural icon, and his trading cards are some of the most sought-after collectibles in Australia and around the world. For serious collectors and investors, owning a high-grade Bradman card isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about securing a piece of sporting history that can command significant value.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 10 most valuable Don Bradman cards, what makes them special, and the approximate market ranges you can expect.

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1. 1928–29 Ogden’s “Australian Test Cricketers” (Don Bradman)

One of the earliest Bradman cards ever produced, this Ogden’s issue is highly prized for its rarity and historical significance. Collectors seek high-grade examples, which can fetch between AUD 8,000 and 40,000, depending on condition. PSA grades 7–9+ are especially sought after.

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2. 1928–29 Wills’s Cricket Season (Bradman)

Wills’s cards are another early tobacco/trade release. Scarce in high grade, top-quality copies can sell for AUD 3,000 to 25,000. PSA 7–9 examples are where you’ll see the biggest price jumps.

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3. 1928 Hoadley’s Cricketers (Bradman)

This Australian trade card is rare, and strong examples are highly collectible. Expect prices between AUD 1,500 and 12,000, depending on grade. High-grade cards are increasingly hard to find.

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4. 1932 Allen’s “Bradman’s Records” / “Steam Roller” Sets

Allen’s issued multiple Bradman cards, including the famous “Steam Roller” series. Collectors prize these for their iconic portraits and rarity. High-grade examples can reach AUD 1,000–15,000.

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5. 1934 Player’s Cricketers (Bradman)

UK tobacco producer Player’s created visually striking Bradman cards that are popular in both Australian and international markets. PSA 7–9 grades typically sell for AUD 1,000–12,000.

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6. 1933 Sweetacres “Sports Champions” (Bradman)

This Australian chewing-gum card is scarce, making it a favorite among early-era collectors. Prices can range from AUD 1,000 to 8,000 in high-grade condition.

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7. 1934 Carreras / British Tobacco Issues

Carreras and other UK tobacco makers produced rare Bradman cards that appeal to international collectors. Expect top examples to sell for AUD 800–7,000, depending on condition.

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8. 1935 J.A. Pattreiouex Sports/Records Cards

These Bradman cards are rare and highly sought after in collector circles. PSA 6–8 examples sell in the AUD 700–7,000 range.

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9. 1929 McNiven’s Confectionery / Dinkum Sports (Bradman)

Australian confectionery issues like McNiven’s are collectible due to scarcity and historical appeal. High-grade cards can reach AUD 500–6,000.

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10. 1930 Barratt / Bondman Series (Bradman)

Barratt and Bondman produced early 1930s Bradman cards that remain desirable today. Depending on condition, prices can range from AUD 400–6,000.

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Why Bradman Cards Are So Valuable

• Rarity: Many of these cards were produced in small quantities, and surviving high-grade copies are scarce.

• Historical significance: Bradman’s unmatched cricketing achievements make any memorabilia inherently desirable.

• Condition-driven market: Even a single grade difference can multiply the card’s value significantly.

• Global demand: Collectors in Australia, the UK, and internationally are constantly seeking high-grade Bradman cards.

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Tips for Collectors and Investors

1. Focus on early issues: Ogden’s, Wills’s, Hoadley’s, and Allen’s are the most valuable.

2. Pay attention to grade: PSA, BGS, or CGA grades dramatically affect resale value.

3. Track auctions: Realized prices at Australian and international auctions give the best insight into current market value.

4. Beware reproductions: Only buy from reputable sellers or verified auctions.

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Final Thoughts

Collecting Don Bradman cards is about more than owning a piece of cricket history—it’s an investment in one of Australia’s most iconic sporting figures. Whether you’re hunting for high-grade early issues or rare UK tobacco variants, these top 10 cards provide a roadmap for building a valuable and historically significant collection.