The Most Valuable McDonald’s Hockey Cards

If you’re a hockey card collector or someone who loves a good trip down memory lane, you’ll know that McDonald’s Upper Deck hockey cards hold a special place in Canadian hearts.

They’re not just collectables, they’re a slice of hockey history, wrapped up in the excitement of a Happy Meal.

Join the Ask Genie blog as we leap into what makes these cards so great, which are the most valuable, and why collectors still search for them today.

What are McDonald's Upper Deck hockey cards?

McDonald’s Upper Deck hockey cards are a series of collectable NHL cards that were offered exclusively at McDonald’s restaurants in Canada for nearly 20 years. These cards featured the league’s top players, from legends like Wayne Gretzky to rising stars, and were often bilingual, making them accessible to hockey fans across Canada.

For many, picking up a pack with a burger and fries was an exciting side to the NHL season, and these cards quickly became a beloved part of the hobby.

When did McDonald's stop selling Upper Deck hockey cards?

The partnership between McDonald’s and Upper Deck began in the early 1990s and continued for several years, with a few breaks and changes in manufacturers. The last regular Upper Deck McDonald’s hockey card sets were released for the 2009–10 NHL season. After that, McDonald’s stopped selling these cards, marking the end of an era for many collectors.

Why did McDonald's stop selling Upper Deck hockey cards?

McDonald’s decision to end the program was mostly about cost-cutting and shifting promotional priorities. While fans and collectors were disappointed, the move didn’t come as a complete surprise.

The company wanted to focus on other ways to connect with customers, but for those who grew up collecting, it felt like the end of a great tradition.

The Most Valuable McDonald's Hockey Cards Ever Sold

Let’s highlight some of the most valuable McDonald’s hockey cards that have made waves among collectors:

1991–92 Upper Deck McDonald’s Wayne Gretzky Hologram (HOF Kings) PSA 10: This card is the crown jewel for many collectors. In top condition, it could fetch nearly $500, a remarkable price for a fast food premium.
1999–00 Upper Deck Retro McDonald’s Limited Parallels: Cards like Grant Fuhr, Jaromir Jagr, Eric Lindros, and Steve Yzerman, especially those with low serial numbers, have sold for well over $100 each.
1992 Upper Deck McDonald’s All Stars: Cards featuring Mario Lemieux (PSA 10) have sold for over $60, while Patrick Roy and Joe Sakic cards are also popular among collectors.
1993 Upper Deck McDonald’s Cards: While most base cards from this year are affordable, cards featuring stars like Pavel Bure can still be found in collections and shops, often for a few dollars.

Read about the 8 most valuable hockey cards from the 1990sin our guide.

Here’s a quick look at notable prices:

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It's no surprise to see a Wayne Gretzky card topping a list of most valuable McDonald's hockey cards. He's not called The Great One for nothing - his status in the game is undeniable, so much so that we had to compile a list of the 10 most valuable Wayne Gretzky hockey cards ever sold.

What Factors Affect the Prices of Hockey Cards?

When searching for sports cards, especially on eBay or at your local trading card shop, you’ll notice that prices vary wildly. Here’s what collectors look for:

Condition: Cards graded as Gem Mint (PSA 10) are worth much more than those with creases or rounded corners.
Player popularity: Cards featuring NHL legends like Gretzky or current stars are always in demand.
Rarity: Limited edition or numbered cards, especially from certain seasons, can command higher prices.
Team appeal: Cards of players from iconic teams like the Boston Bruins or the Edmonton Oilers often attract more interest.
Cultural connection: For many, these cards aren’t just about value—they’re about nostalgia and the love of the game.

Are Upper Deck Hockey Cards Still Sold In Fast Food Restaurants?

If you’re hoping to pick up a new set of Upper Deck hockey cards with your next Happy Meal, you’re out of luck. McDonald’s stopped selling these cards over a decade ago.

Don't worry, though! You can still find Upper Deck hockey cards in Tim Hortons restaurants nationwide!

And, you can read all about the 10 most expensive Tim Hortons hockey cards in our guide.

More from Spin Genie

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, McDonald’s Upper Deck iconic hockey cards are a fun and accessible way to connect with the history of the NHL.

While they might not reach the prices of ultra-rare rookie cards, they offer great hockey nostalgia and remind collectors of the excitement of each new year and season.

If you’re searching for options, try checking out eBay or your local shop, and don’t forget to use filters to find exactly what you’re looking for. Happy collecting.

Or, if you're looking for more sports content - dive into the Ask Genie blog or check out one of the pieces below: