A 2004-2005 Panini Mega Cracks Lionel Messi rookie card sold for $1.5 million on 13/9 through the Fanatics Collect marketplace. The Acquir marketplace represented the seller. The card received a perfect 10 grade from the Professional Sports Authenticator.

A 2004-2005 Lionel Messi rookie card. Photo: Goldin

A 2004-2005 Lionel Messi rookie card. Photo: Goldin

Messi's card surpasses the previous record of $1.33 million set by a 1958 Alifabolaget Pele card in 2022. Shortly before, a different version of the Pele card also fetched $1.1 million.

Panini, based in Italy, has been producing trading cards since the 1970 World Cup. The cards typically feature player images, statistics, and may include autographs. Collecting these cards is a popular hobby for football fans.

The number of cards in each box varies depending on the collection, year of release, and product type (large box, small box, or individual packs). On Panini's website for English fans, a 56-card Premier League Top Class 2025 - Blaster Box is priced around $27.

Messi began his football career in the 2004-2005 season with Barca. Over 20 years, he has become one of the most accomplished players, winning the 2022 World Cup, two Copa Americas, the Intercontinental Cup, an Olympic gold medal, the U20 World Cup, four Champions Leagues, 10 La Ligas, a record eight Ballon d'Ors, and six European Golden Shoes.

Thanh Quy (ESPN)