Ever since Topps released its 2024 Chrome Update Series in November, there has been a golden-ticket Paul Skenes card in the wild, one that is expected to have a six-figure estimated value. But the real value is the bounty the Pirates put on it in a trade, making a 1-of-1 card even more enticing.
The search for that card is now over, with Topps announcing Tuesday that an 11-year-old from Los Angeles found the coveted rookie card. Now we’ll have to see if they’ll keep it or trade it.
The card features the patch Skenes wore on his jersey from his Major League debut, making it a true one-of-a-kind offering. It also commemorates one of the greatest seasons by a Pirates rookie ever. Skenes went 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA in his first Major League season, winning National League Rookie of the Year honors and finishing third for the NL Cy Young.
Upon the announcement of the card, the Pirates made a trade offer to whomever finds it, which includes:
- Two season tickets behind home plate for the next 30 years
- A meet and greet with Skenes
- Two autographed Skenes jerseys
- A softball game at PNC Park with coaching from Pirates alumni
- A private tour of the Pirates’ Spring Training facilities of Pirates City and LECOM Park, plus other unique experiences at their Florida homes
- Taking batting practice and warming up with the team
Skenes’ girlfriend, influencer and collegiate gymnast Livvy Dunne, also offered that the fan who found it could sit in her suite for a Pirates game this season if they take the deal.
There’s no word yet if the collector or their family is taking the Pirates and Dunne up on their offers.