FUTERA is on FIRE ...

The hits just keep coming ... and I am really smitten with the product that FUTERA has been putting out. Now most high-end trading cards are sold in exclusive tins or boxes. However, FUTERA's online series, sold in regular packs, can result in some major mojo ...

as this pack pull proves. The same card (but different player code) just sold on ebay for $153.77.

Futera, if you can find them in the USA market, retail at the suggested price of $3.99 to $4.25 per pack.

The other feature I like about the FUTERA cards is that they are like travelers checks - redeemable world-wide. If you are seeking specific national teams or players, you can post your wants on the FUTERA Trading Forum. the chase cards of HEROES and the powerful LEGENDS are highly desired for the virtual game.

This enables you to play their online soccer manager game while putting together your dream team. So while I'm not a big fan of Ronaldo, I can swap him for a player of his value and a star that I admire more.

Anyone want a Cristiano Ronaldo jersey card ?

As Good As Gold ... D'oro Espana (Spanish Gold)

It's definitely not how I wanted it, but it happened. Spain got to the 2010 FIFAWorld Cup Final with another 1:0 win. They didn't do it with all the hype surrounding their stylish forwards or skilled midfielders - it was a rugged, long-haired defender who did the business.

Carles (don't call me Carlos) Puyols - part of the star-studded Barcelona F.C. team that swept 6 trophies into thier showcase last season, headed the only goal against Germany.

It just so happened that I had this gem (2005 Futera) laying around waiting to be displayed: a 24k gold plated card from FUTERA, numbered to only 111 and containing a "memocell" photo and a two-color swatch from his Barcelona jersey.

That this one is absent of an actual number, means it was used for promotion. They are quite heavy and the player is etched into the metal on the face of the card. Fortunately,  these cards made by the UK company are only rising in value.

What I like about them is that they are truely "hard to find", and are actually limited editions - with runs of about 500 cases world-wide.

So if I have to look for the silver lining (or gold) to Spain's victory, it might as well be this card.