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Gretzky's Explosive Edge: 1982 Neilson #17 "Fast Starts" – KSA 8 NMM!

Own a slice of hockey immortality with this crisp 1982 Neilson Wayne Gretzky #17 "Fast Starts", professionally graded KSA 8 NMM (Near Mint-Mint) – a high-eye-appeal example from one of the most beloved Gretzky promotional sets of all time!

Wayne Gretzky, "The Great One," was unstoppable in the early 1980s with the Edmonton Oilers, posting historic point totals and laying the foundation for a dynasty. This card celebrates his legendary "fast starts" – those lightning-quick openings where he'd score early and set the pace for blowout wins. The vibrant action photo shows Gretzky in full flight on the ice, stick ready, with that classic Oilers blue-orange jersey. Part of the 50-card 1982-83 Neilson's series (a Canadian candy-bar exclusive), the set mixes childhood stories with pro highlights, and bilingual backs offer fun hockey strategy tips – pure 80s nostalgia!

Why this KSA 8 is a standout buy in 2026:

• KSA 8 NMM grade – Sharp corners, clean edges, excellent centering, and vivid colors for a 40+ year-old promo card. KSA (Canada's trusted vintage grader) delivers reliable, conservative assessments – this 8 offers strong presentation and protection, often comparable to PSA 7–8 equivalents at a better value point. High grades are scarce on these due to original candy-bar distribution and handling.
• "Fast Starts" theme – Captures Gretzky's signature speed and scoring burst right from puck drop. The instructional back text and illustrations make it a favorite for collectors who love the educational side of vintage hockey cards.
• Market appeal & value – Raw/ungraded #17s typically trade $7–$25 on major sites like eBay and COMC. Graded examples (especially KSA/PSA/BGS) add a solid premium for protection and eye appeal. Gretzky cards remain blue-chip in the hobby – his legacy as the greatest player ever drives steady demand from new collectors and investors. Similar mid-grade Neilson singles hold firm or appreciate as vintage hockey heats up.
• Affordable Gretzky icon – Unlike $10K+ rookies or high-end inserts, this delivers authentic "Great One" magic at an accessible price. Perfect for Oilers fans, Gretzky completists, or anyone chasing 80s nostalgia.
• Slabbed & display-ready – Secure in the KSA holder (with that cool maple leaf logo), ready for shelf, case, or framing – no handling worries.

Ideal for:

• Gretzky rainbow builders chasing the full Neilson set or variations
• Vintage promo/food-issue collectors who love Canadian hockey history
• 80s dynasty fans assembling Oilers-themed displays
• Smart investors in timeless legends – Gretzky's market stays strong year after year

This KSA 8 is vibrant, well-preserved, and a true conversation piece from hockey's golden era. With limited high-grade supply from this promo release and Gretzky's popularity only growing, pieces like this move fast.

Grab this authenticated piece of NHL history today – add "Fast Starts" to your collection before it's claimed!