1988 Topps Jerry Rice #43

How I Arrived at the Hobby Score

The 1988 Topps Jerry Rice #43 is his third-year card, released as Rice was already establishing himself as the NFL’s premier wide receiver. While it doesn’t have the demand or prestige of his 1986 rookie, it’s a great snapshot of Rice during the early years of his dominance with the 49ers. The card is widely available and affordable, with over 2,600 graded by PSA, making it accessible for most collectors.

By 1988, Rice was coming off back-to-back All-Pro seasons and was a key part of a 49ers team that was a perennial Super Bowl contender. This card reflects his consistency and yearly excellence, as he continued to put up huge numbers and help his team win. For collectors, it’s a solid piece of Rice’s legacy and a reminder of his sustained greatness throughout the late 1980s.