Over the last 24 hours, we have gotten a lot of information about Contenders, especially in regards to the surprises that are contained in the product. One of them was the different variations on the Ticket Autos, and the other was the inclusion of what Panini was calling the “Golden Tickets.”

Starting with the variations, because UD has the exclusive NCAA license, the college uni cards couldnt be created like they were in 2008-2009. This forced Panini to make a decision, and personally, I think they made the right one. Instead of doing one regular, non SP, pro uniform card and one SPed college uniform card, they did two pro unis with two different pictures. For players like Sam Bradford and Tim Tebow, this creates a whole new level of buzz, and gives some redemption on bad photos used for some of the tickets. So far, the variations have been selling well, much like the regulars, something that will most likely die down over the next few weeks once NT and Five Star hit shelves. Here are some examples:

Sam Bradford Auto Non-Variation RC

Sam Bradford Auto Variation RC

Tim Tebow Auto Non-Variation RC

Tim Tebow Auto Variation RC

Moving on to the Golden Ticket cards, according to the adver-break that Panini did on their site, these 1/1 cards are prited ON solid gold stock and are issued as redemptions in the product. The cards are obviously very unique collectibles, and its really too bad they need to be encased like they are. One big one has already hit eBay, check out the price already:

Aaron Rodgers Golden Ticket 1/1 Redemption

Overall, Contenders seems to be performing well out of the gate like it always does, I am just wondering how the release of Five Star next week will affect the prices. Although these autographs are on card too, the Five Star auto patch and inscription cards are no doubt going to be more coveted by collectors. That will definitely drive down the cost of the cards, minus the SPs that people will chase.