Buy 1985 OPC Hockey Complete Set: Honest Pros & Cons

Are you a hockey card collector standing at the crossroads of a major decision, wondering if you should buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set,1985 OPC set worth buying,best OPC hockey set to collect,1985 OPC set pros cons,should I buy 1985 OPC set,1985 OPC vs Topps hockey? You’re not alone. This iconic set, anchored by the legendary Mario Lemieux rookie card, represents a significant investment and a cornerstone piece for any serious collection. The question of whether it’s the best OPC hockey set to collect or a potential money pit is a common one. In this comprehensive, hands-on review, we’ll dissect every facet of the 1985 OPC Complete Hockey Set to give you the clarity needed to make an informed purchase. We’ll examine the condition, the true value of the key rookies, and whether this set truly lives up to its legendary status, helping you decide if it’s the right move for your collection. For a deeper dive into vintage hockey card investments, check out our guide to the most valuable hockey cards.

What Is 1985 O Pee Chee OPC Complete Hockey Set Mario Lemieux Rookie Card Wayne Gretzky?

The 1985 O-Pee-Chee (OPC) hockey card set is a landmark 264-card series that captures a pivotal moment in NHL history. It is the Canadian counterpart to the Topps set released the same year, often celebrated for its superior card stock and vibrant colors. This product is the complete, factory-sealed set, guaranteeing you every single card, eliminating the gamble of pack searching. Its primary appeal is twofold: it houses the highly coveted rookie card of Mario Lemieux and features cards of “The Great One,” Wayne Gretzky, at the peak of his Edmonton Oilers dynasty. This makes the set a target for veteran collectors seeking a grail item, investors banking on historical value, and fans wanting a tangible piece of hockey’s golden era. As the definitive release from O-Pee-Chee, a brand with a storied history in the hobby, this set represents more than just cards—it’s a preserved slice of sports history. For many, the decision to buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set is about securing a legacy piece.

What’s Inside the Pack / Box?

Complete Contents Breakdown

When you commit to buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set, you are receiving the entire 264-card series. The crown jewel is, without question, card #113: the Mario Lemieux rookie card. This is the card that drives the majority of the set’s value and collector demand. Beyond Lemieux, the set is packed with Hall-of-Fame talent, including Wayne Gretzky (#65), Paul Coffey, and Jari Kurri. It also features other notable rookies like Chris Chelios and Patrick Roy, adding layers of depth and value. The checklist is a who’s who of 80s hockey, ensuring that nearly every card has significance to a team or player collector. There are no inserts or chase variants—the entire chase is the set itself and the condition of its key cards. This comprehensive nature is a major reason many consider it the best OPC hockey set to collect for completeness.

Packaging & Presentation

The set typically arrives in a sturdy, sealed box or is securely bundled. The presentation is straightforward and functional, focused on preservation rather than flashy graphics. In our evaluation, the packaging adequately protects the cards from shifting and damage during shipping, which is critical for a set of this age and value. The unboxing experience is one of anticipation and history, not modern “box-breaking” theatrics. You are essentially opening a time capsule. It’s wise to purchase from a reputable seller like this trusted Amazon listing to ensure the set is complete and has been stored properly. The lack of fancy packaging keeps the focus where it belongs: on the iconic cards within, helping you determine if the 1985 OPC set is worth buying for your display or storage plans.

Collector Appeal & Rarity

The appeal of this set is immense and multifaceted. While not a limited edition in the modern sense, finding a complete 1985 OPC set in genuinely good condition is becoming a rare find. Most surviving sets have been pieced together from opened packs, making a pre-assembled, matched set a convenient and desirable commodity. The Mario Lemieux rookie is a perennial top-tier chase card in the hobby; its value anchors the entire set. From an investment perspective, the set has shown steady, long-term appreciation, benefiting from the legendary status of its key players. Community demand remains strong, fueled by nostalgia and the evergreen popularity of Gretzky and Lemieux. The secondary market on platforms like eBay and TCGPlayer is active, with prices for graded Lemieux rookies often setting the pace. For a collector weighing 1985 OPC set pros cons, the enduring demand and historical significance are powerful points in its favor. For a comparison of how this era stacks up, see our analysis of 1980s hockey card market trends.

Condition & Build Quality

Card Stock and Print Quality

In our hands-on inspection, the classic O-Pee-Chee card stock from this era is notably superior to its Topps counterpart. The cards have a firmer, more substantial feel and a high-gloss finish that has often held up better over time. The print quality is characterized by vibrant, saturated colors that make the team logos and player uniforms pop. However, it’s crucial to manage expectations: these are nearly 40-year-old cards. Even in a “complete set,” you may encounter variations in centering, and the edges and corners are almost never pack-fresh perfect. The structural integrity is generally good, but the glossy surface is susceptible to the era-common print defects like wax staining or light scratching.

Grading Potential

If you’re looking to buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set with the goal of submitting key cards for grading, a careful assessment is paramount. The Lemieux rookie, in particular, is notoriously difficult to find in high grade due to production quality and how the cards were originally packaged and handled. In our evaluation, centering is often off, and finding one with sharp corners, clean edges, and a pristine surface is a challenge. A set advertised as “complete” but not graded should be assumed to be in the Good to Very Good (VG) to Excellent (EX) range by vintage standards. A PSA or BGS 9 or 10 is exceptionally rare and would command a massive premium. This reality is a critical part of the 1985 OPC set pros cons analysis.

Storage & Protection Recommendations

Immediately upon receiving your set, you must prioritize protection. We recommend penny sleeves and rigid top loaders for the key cards (Lemieux, Gretzky, Roy, Chelios). For the complete set, a high-quality, sideloading binder with acid-free pages or a professional card storage box is ideal. Never use rubber bands or place cards loose in a box where they can rub. For long-term preservation, control humidity and avoid direct sunlight. Investing in proper storage from the start is non-negotiable. Consider these premium top loaders and sleeves to safeguard your investment. For more detailed strategies, our ultimate card storage guide has you covered.

Pros and Cons

What We Loved (Pros)

• Guaranteed Key Rookie: The primary reason to should I buy 1985 OPC set is answered here. You are guaranteed the Mario Lemieux rookie card (#113) without the uncertainty and cost of breaking countless wax packs.
• Complete Historical Snapshot: Owning all 264 cards gives you the full story of the 1984-85 NHL season, featuring Gretzky, Bourque, Messier, and other icons in their prime.
• Superior OPC Quality: The card stock and color vibrancy are consistently better than the Topps version, making it the more desirable issue for condition-sensitive collectors.
• Strong Investment Foundation: The set has proven historical value appreciation. It’s a tangible asset with liquidity in the collector market.
• Time and Cost Efficiency: Assembling this set card-by-card in comparable condition would be significantly more time-consuming and often more expensive than buying it complete.

What Could Be Improved (Cons)

• Condition Variability: This is the biggest caveat. “Complete” does not mean “mint.” Expect vintage-grade cards with flaws. You are rarely getting a PSA 10 set.

High Entry Price: At around $2,495, this is a major financial commitment, placing it out of reach for casual or beginner collectors.

• No “Pack Fresh” Thrill: For collectors who love the gamble and excitement of opening sealed product, a pre-assembled set removes that element entirely.

1985 O Pee Chee OPC Complete Hockey Set Mario Lemieux Rookie Card Wayne Gretzky vs. Competitors

The most direct competitor is the 1985 Topps hockey complete set. Understanding the 1985 OPC vs Topps hockey debate is essential for any informed collector.

Feature	1985 OPC Complete Set	1985 Topps Complete Set
Card Count	264 cards	264 cards
Key Rookie (Lemieux)	Card #113 (OPC version)	Card #113 (Topps version)
Card Stock & Quality	Generally thicker, glossier, more vibrant colors.	Softer stock, colors can be less saturated.
Collector Demand & Value	Higher demand and premium price due to perceived quality.	Typically lower market value than OPC.
Primary Market	Released and distributed in Canada.	Released and distributed in the United States.

When to Choose This Product

Choose the 1985 OPC set if you are a condition-focused collector who values the superior print quality, if you are a Canadian hockey fan or collector prioritizing the OPC brand, or if your investment strategy leans towards the version with historically stronger demand. It is the definitive choice for a purist. You can secure the OPC version here on Amazon.

When to Consider Alternatives

Consider the 1985 Topps set if your budget is tighter, if you are an American collector more attached to the Topps brand, or if you are less concerned about optimal card stock and are primarily seeking the Lemieux rookie for a player collection at a lower cost. For a broader look at alternatives, explore our review of the top hockey card sets to collect.

Who Should Buy 1985 O Pee Chee OPC Complete Hockey Set Mario Lemieux Rookie Card Wayne Gretzky?

Ideal For:

• The Veteran Set Collector: If your goal is to own the most iconic, high-quality version of this legendary set, this is your endpoint.
• The Long-Term Investor: If you view sports cards as alternative assets and believe in the enduring legacy of Lemieux and Gretzky, this set is a blue-chip holding.
• The Passionate Hockey Historian: If you want a museum-quality piece that encapsulates mid-80s NHL greatness, the emotional and historical value is immense.

Not Recommended For:

• The Budget-Conscious or Beginner Collector: The high price tag is prohibitive. Start with single rookie cards or smaller lots.
• The Modern “Hit” Hunter: If your joy comes from pulling autographs and patch relics from modern packs, this vintage set offers a different, more static kind of satisfaction.

Expert Collector Tips for Maximum Value

Tip #1: How to Spot Authentic vs. Counterfeit Products

Always buy from reputable, established dealers with strong feedback. For the Lemieux rookie, know the hallmarks: correct font, proper color saturation on the Penguins logo, and sharp, clean printing. Compare any card in question to a verified authentic example. Counterfeits often have blurry text or incorrect colors.

Tip #2: Best Storage and Protection Practices

As emphasized, use quality sleeves and top loaders immediately. For the complete set, consider grading the Lemieux and Gretzky cards if their condition warrants it. A high grade exponentially increases value and provides the ultimate protection.

Tip #3: Complementary Accessories or Products

Pair your set with proper display or storage. A premium binder or a fireproof/waterproof safe is wise. To handle and examine your cards safely, invest in a set of collector-grade gloves and a magnifying loupe.

Tip #4: When and Where to Buy for Best Price

The market can fluctuate. Monitor completed sales on eBay for several weeks to establish a fair current price. Sometimes, prices dip slightly during the hockey off-season (summer), but for a landmark set like this, significant discounts are rare.

Tip #5: Grading and Resale Strategy

If you choose to grade, PSA is the market leader for vintage hockey. Only submit the Lemieux rookie if it has a realistic chance at a PSA 7 or higher. The cost of grading must be justified by the potential increase in value. For the rest of the set, raw (ungraded) is typically fine.

Tip #6: Building a Collection Around This Product

This set can be the centerpiece of an “80s Legends” collection. Complement it with graded rookie cards of other 80s stars like Steve Yzerman (84-85), or even a complete set from 1984-85 or 1986-87 OPC to build a formidable era-specific collection.

Common Mistakes Collectors Make

1. Mistake: Assuming “complete set” means all cards are in mint condition. → Solution: Request detailed scans or photos of the key cards (front and back) before purchasing to set accurate condition expectations.
2. Mistake: Storing the valuable cards in a cheap, ringed binder that can dent them. → Solution: Use only sideloading, archival-quality pages in a D-ring binder or a dedicated card storage box.
3. Mistake: Overpaying due to impulse without checking recent market comps. → Solution: Always research recent sold listings on eBay and other marketplaces to understand the true, current fair market value.
4. Mistake: Handling the cards without clean hands or proper care, introducing oils and dirt. → Solution: Always handle cards by the edges and consider using cotton gloves for the most valuable pieces.
5. Mistake: Sending every card in the set for grading, wasting money on cards that won’t see a return. → Solution: Be strategic. Grade only the cornerstone cards (Lemieux, Gretzky) that show clear potential for a grade that will boost their value beyond the grading cost.

Pricing & Where to Buy

The current price for this complete set is approximately $2,495 USD. This price reflects its status as a premium, guaranteed product containing one of hockey’s most important rookie cards. When analyzing if the 1985 OPC set is worth buying at this level, compare it to the combined cost of sourcing a mid-grade Lemieux rookie, a Gretzky card, and the other 262 cards in similar condition—the complete set often offers a slight convenience premium but can be cost-effective. The best place to buy is from trusted vendors with robust return policies who specialize in vintage sports cards. Authenticity and accurate condition description are paramount.

Seller Trustworthiness & Return Policy

Prioritize sellers with long-standing positive reputations, detailed photos, and clear communication. A good return policy (e.g., 7-14 days) is essential for a high-ticket item like this, allowing you to inspect the cards upon arrival and verify their condition matches the description. Never buy a set of this caliber from a source that offers no buyer protection.

Final Verdict

Summary of Key Findings

Our deep dive reveals that the 1985 OPC Complete Hockey Set is a heavyweight champion of the vintage hockey card world. Its strengths are undeniable: the guaranteed Mario Lemieux rookie, superior production quality versus Topps, and immense historical significance. The decision to buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set is a serious one, weighed down primarily by the high cost and the need to have realistic expectations about the condition of 40-year-old cards.

Our Recommendation

For the right collector, this set is absolutely worth it. We give it a 4.5 out of 5 stars for veteran collectors and investors. It is a centerpiece-grade item that will hold and likely grow in value while providing immense collector satisfaction. It is not for everyone, but for its target audience, it delivers. If your goal is to own the best OPC hockey set to collect from the iconic 1980s, this is the pinnacle.

Bottom Line

If you have the budget and seek a definitive, high-quality piece of hockey card history, taking the step to buy 1985 OPC hockey complete set is a decision you are unlikely to regret. Click here to view the set on Amazon and secure your piece of legacy today. Have you added this set to your collection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1985 O Pee Chee OPC Complete Hockey Set Mario Lemieux Rookie Card Wayne Gretzky worth the money?

For serious collectors and investors, yes. At approximately $2,495, you are paying for convenience, historical value, and the security of owning the key rookie without gambling. The combined cost of acquiring the cards individually, especially the Lemieux rookie in comparable condition, often meets or exceeds this price. It’s a premium for a premium, complete product.

How does it compare to the 1985 Topps hockey set?

The 1985 OPC vs Topps hockey debate centers on quality and demand. The OPC set uses better card stock with more vibrant colors, making it the preferred version for condition-conscious collectors, and it commands a higher market price. The Topps set is more affordable and was the U.S. release, but it is generally considered the less desirable of the two from a pure quality standpoint.

Is this a good set for beginner collectors?

Generally, no. The high price point makes it a risky first major purchase. Beginners should start with single cards or lower-cost sets to learn about condition, the market, and their own collecting interests before committing to a four-figure vintage set.

What accessories do I need to store and protect my pulls?

You will need penny sleeves, rigid top loaders for key cards, and either a high-quality binder with acid-free pages or a sturdy storage box. A humidity-controlled environment is ideal. For handling, consider collector gloves and a loupe.

How can I tell if my product is authentic and not a counterfeit?

Buy from reputable dealers. For the cards themselves, check for crisp, clear printing (not fuzzy), correct colors (especially the Penguins’ gold on the Lemieux rookie), and proper card stock thickness/gloss. Compare directly to authenticated examples online or from grading service databases.

Where can I buy 1985 O Pee Chee OPC Complete Hockey Set Mario Lemieux Rookie Card Wayne Gretzky at the best price?

We recommend purchasing from this trusted retailer for competitive pricing and guaranteed authentic products. Always compare prices across a few major reputable sports card dealers and auction platforms to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

What is the resale value of the best pulls from this set?

The resale value is almost entirely tied to the Mario Lemieux rookie card. A raw copy in Excellent condition can sell for several hundred dollars. If graded by PSA, values jump significantly: a PSA 8 can reach ~$1,500+, and a PSA 9 can command $4,000+. The Gretzky card and other star rookies like Patrick Roy add supplemental value, but the Lemieux is the engine.

Should I grade the entire set or just the key cards?

Grade only the key cards (primarily the Lemieux rookie) if they have a realistic chance of achieving a grade that will increase their net value after grading fees. Grading the entire 264-card set would be prohibitively expensive and unnecessary, as the bulk of the set’s value is concentrated in a handful of cards.