If you’ve ever opened a pack of cards and found one that just feels different — maybe the photo isn’t the same as the others, or the card has a rare variation — you might’ve pulled what collectors call a short print or super short print. These cards are some of the most exciting finds in baseball, football, and basketball collecting — and they can be surprisingly valuable.
What Is a Short Print (SP)?
A short print, often called an SP, is a card that’s intentionally printed in smaller quantities than the rest of the set.
That means even though it’s part of the same checklist, far fewer copies exist — making it harder to find and much more collectible. For example, a base set might have 10,000 copies of each card, but only a few hundred of certain SP variations. You’ll usually spot them because they:
- Feature an alternate image or pose
- Have a different background, logo, or event photo
- Are listed as “SP” or “Variation” on the official checklist
What Is a Super Short Print (SSP)?
A super short print (SSP) takes rarity to another level.
These cards are printed in extremely low quantities — often under 100 copies — and manufacturers don’t always reveal exactly how many exist. They’re the kind of card you might see once in hundreds (or even thousands) of packs. Examples include:
- Baseball: Topps “celebration” or “bat flip” photo variations of stars like Mookie Betts or Shohei Ohtani
- Football: Panini “Color Blast” and “Downtown” inserts
- Basketball: Prizm “Zebra Stripe” or “Checkerboard” parallels
How to Tell If a Card Is a Short Print
One of the easiest ways to confirm an SP or SSP is by checking the code on the back of the card — specifically the tiny number at the bottom of the back edge. Every Topps (and many Panini) set uses different code endings to identify variations:
- Base cards have one standard code.
- Short Prints (SP) have a different code ending.
- Super Short Prints (SSP) often have yet another unique ending.
For example, in Topps Baseball:
- A base card might end in #565
- A short print could end in #578
- A super short print might end in #586
To check yours:
- Flip the card over.
- Look at the bottom right corner for a tiny code.
- Compare it to a checklist or variation guide (sites like Cardboard Connection or Beckett post SP/SSP code lists for each release).
It’s a simple but reliable way to confirm what you’ve pulled — and whether you’re holding something truly rare.
Why SPs and SSPs Are Valuable
Collectors love short prints because of the surprise and scarcity — you never know when you’ll hit one.
They often feature star players, rookies, or unique artwork, which adds to their long-term value. Here’s why they’re so collectible:
- ⚡ Low print runs make them rare
- 🎨 Alternate designs or photo variations stand out visually
- 🏆 Set builders and variation chasers love the challenge
- 💰 Key players’ SPs and SSPs often hold strong resale value
SPs and SSPs Across Sports
- Baseball: Topps and Bowman lead the way with hidden photo variations, throwback uniforms, and event photos.
- Football: Panini’s “Downtown” and “Color Blast” inserts are classic SSP chases.
- Basketball: Prizm “Tiger Stripe,” “Zebra,” and “Photon” parallels are highly sought after.
The Thrill of the Chase
Finding a short print in a pack feels like uncovering a hidden gem — especially when it’s a big-name player or rookie.
Because SPs and SSPs are often subtle, identifying them becomes part of the fun and challenge of collecting.
Final Thoughts
Short prints and super short prints add mystery and excitement to every pack you open.
They remind collectors that sometimes, the most valuable cards aren’t flashy — they’re just rare. Every Legacy Select pack is hand-built by collectors, for collectors — and includes real chances to pull short prints, super short prints, numbered cards, and other rare hits without overpaying for retail boxes.
👉 Grab your pack today and see what hidden gems you can uncover.