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Lionel Messi, a global soccer icon and arguably the biggest name in the sport, boasts a vast array of trading cards that continue to captivate collectors worldwide. Revered as a fan favorite, the Argentinean forward has established himself as one of the all-time greats in soccer, alongside legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Pelé. Messi's illustrious career, marked by eight Ballon d'Or awards, numerous UEFA, La Liga, Copa del Rey titles, and a momentous FIFA World Cup Final win in 2022, has significantly bolstered the value and interest in his trading cards.

Messi's professional journey began with Barcelona in 2003, but collectors seeking his early cards will find limited options, particularly from his first decade as a pro. Nonetheless, his rookie cards from the 2004-05 season, along with low-numbered and autograph cards, remain highly sought after. While initially scarce, autographed Lionel Messi cards have become more accessible in recent soccer card sets, thanks to efforts from Panini, Topps, and Leaf, albeit in moderate supply.

For those looking to delve into the world of Lionel Messi cards, the list below highlights some of his most significant cards, encompassing early options and many of his signed cards:

1. 2004-05 Panini Mega Cracks Lionel Messi #71: The pinnacle of Messi's rookie cards, this Mega Cracks release commands top dollar, especially in high grades.

2. 2004-05 Panini Este La Liga Sticker Lionel Messi: Despite being a sticker, this early Messi collectible is highly valued and sought after due to its scarcity.

3. 2006 Panini FIFA World Cup Germany #47 Lionel Messi: Messi's first World Cup trading card, from the 2006 World Cup set, has grown in popularity.

4. 2013 Icons Limited Messi Collection Autographs: This set marked the debut of certified, pack-pulled Messi autographs, featuring autographs and jersey cards.

5. 2014 Panini Prizm World Cup Parallels Lionel Messi: Known for its extensive checklist of Refractor parallels, this set offers 11 different parallel versions of Messi's cards.

6. 2014 Panini Prizm World Cup Signatures Lionel Messi #S-LME Autograph: One of the most sought-after Messi autographs, it's a key card in the 2014 Prizm World Cup set.

7. 2016 Panini Flawless Lionel Messi Autographs: Featuring on-card autographs, this high-end set includes Messi cards with match-worn shoe pieces.

8. 2016-17 Panini Noir Lionel Messi Autographs: Known for its hard-signed autographs, some signed in gold ink, this set offers a range of Messi signature cards.

9. 2017 Panini Revolution Lionel Messi Autograph #A-LM SSP: An extremely rare autograph card, limited to 25 copies or less.

10. 2017 Panini Immaculate Collection Lionel Messi Autographs: Offers several sticker autograph options for Messi.

11. 2018 Panini Eminence Lionel Messi Autographs: A luxury set featuring extravagant designs, limited runs, and encased cards with diamonds and on-card signatures.

12. 2018 Panini National Treasures Lionel Messi Autographs: Features the Colossal insert with a jumbo relic and on-card signature.

13. 2018 Panini Prizm World Cup Signatures Lionel Messi #S-LM Autograph: A super short print autograph card from the 2018 Prizm World Cup.

14. 2022 Panini Prizm World Cup Signatures Lionel Messi #S-LEO Autograph: Tied to his final World Cup triumph with Argentina, this card is a collector's favorite.

15. Topps Champions League Lionel Messi Autographs: Offers limited autograph cards for Messi with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain across various UEFA Champions League sets.

16. Donruss Lionel Messi Autographs: Features Messi's autograph cards in the classic Donruss design style across multiple years.

17. Panini Select Lionel Messi Autographs: Multiple Select Soccer sets feature Messi autographs, showcasing the brand's distinct style.

18. Leaf Lionel Messi Autographs: Provides a variety of Messi autograph cards, often paired with other sports legends, though without team logos.

This guide presents a detailed overview of Lionel Messi's key trading cards, from his coveted rookie cards to his diverse range of autographed cards. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, Messi's trading cards offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of soccer history, capturing the essence of one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.