By Van Cox, Special to NASCAR.COM
October 20, 2005
05:18 PM EDT (21:18 GMT)
You couldn't ask for more. Collectors who purchase a 2005 Wheels American Thunder Hobby box will find an average off one autograph and three race-used memorabilia cards per box. The third anniversary edition of Wheels American Thunder boasts an exciting 90-card base set chock full of subsets like Route 66, Hot Rod, Dream Team, Coast to Coast, and Rookie Thunder. A 27-card set-within-a-set called Medallion is also part of the mix. "We are excited to bring collectors an eye-catching, premium quality, Americana-themed set that not only offers fun, but value too," says Tom Farrell, Director of Marketing for Press Pass. The Wheels American Thunder 2005 insert program features seven different memorabilia chase cards. Triple Hat includes three different driver-worn hat swatches on one card. A total of 26 NASCAR Nextel Cup drivers are included. Caps used in the program feature the driver's pit cap, as well as Nextel Cup and a manufacturer's caps. Also look for Double Hat and Single Hat versions on select drivers. Race-used driver shoes are featured in Pushin' Pedal, while Cool Threads contains an actual piece of event-used shirt worn under the driver's firesuit. Finally, Head To Toe includes both pieces of a driver worn shirt and race-used shoes. These cards are inserted at a ratio of 1:10 in Hobby boxes and 1:240 in retail versions. Collectors will also enjoy Thunder Road-an 18-card memorabilia set showcasing a special coating made of race-used tire. These inserts are seeded at a rate of 1:18. On average, one Thunder Road card and a pair of other memorabilia cards will be found in each Hobby box. If you're looking for the "right sign," check out the Wheels Authentic Autograph insert program featuring 65 of NASCAR's most engaging personalities. This popular chase set is only available in Wheels High Gear (which released in January-and Wheels American Thunder. High Gear didn't include the signatures of Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Martin Truex, but both are present in American Thunder. Wheels Authentic Autographs are inserted at 1:20 Hobby packs; 1:144 Retail. Here's a look at other inserts highlighting Wheels American Thunder 2005: American Eagle/Golden Eagle (1:6 packs): This 12-card set focuses on the heritage of the sport with an intricate etched pattern stamped with silver foil. The special Hobby only version is on gold foil and sequentially numbered to 250.American Muscle (1:10) Here's a plastic etched ensemble showcasing nine of the toughest cars on the track. | 
