Michael Jordan’s influence in the world of basketball is undeniable, and his legacy extends far beyond the court. The impact of his trading cards is a testament to his enduring popularity and unmatched status in the collectibles industry. With over 1.59 million cards graded, Jordan’s cards reign supreme, far surpassing those of any other athlete.
One of the most iconic pieces of sports memorabilia is the 1986 Fleer rookie card. Despite its widespread availability, the card continues to soar in value, echoing the rise of Jordan’s Air Jordans. The rampant duplication and forgery of this card make professional grading a necessity to ensure authenticity.
Collectors strive to own a PSA 10 Gem Mint version of Jordan’s cards, as even those with high production numbers can command astronomical prices in pristine condition. This pursuit of perfection has contributed to the high number of submissions and gradings of Jordan’s cards in the collectibles market.
Let’s delve into the realm of Michael Jordan’s most graded cards and explore their current market values.
The 1990 Fleer #26 card stands out as a cornerstone for Jordan collectors, with over 61,000 PSA graded copies. While this card may be commonplace, attaining a PSA 10 grade significantly elevates its value, with an average of $180 for PSA 10s and $13 for PSA 8s.
The 1986 Fleer #57 rookie card holds a revered status as the Holy Grail of Jordan cards, with only 332 PSA 10 copies in existence. This scarcity drives its value up, with an average price of $183,000 for PSA 10s, making it a prized possession for serious collectors.
From the late ’80s, the 1989 Hoops #200 card offers a blend of nostalgia and affordability, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to Jordan collecting. With over 33,000 PSA graded copies, this card averages $140 for PSA 10s and $22 for PSA 9s.
The 1988 Fleer #17 card boasts a low PSA 10 population of 652, rendering it highly desirable among collectors. With an average price of $3,000 for PSA 10s and $241 for PSA 9s, this card continues to attract enthusiasts hoping to secure a Gem Mint grade.
Jordan’s 1991 Upper Deck #SP1 card stands out for its crossover appeal, being part of the 1991 Upper Deck Baseball set. With a PSA 10 population of 2,773, this card averages $380 for PSA 10s and $47 for PSA 9s, maintaining its popularity due to its design and rarity in top grades.
The 1986 Fleer Sticker #8, Jordan’s rookie sticker included in 1986 Fleer packs, is a highly sought-after item with a minuscule PSA 10 population of 121. This rarity commands a lofty average price of $40,000 for PSA 10s and $3,600 for PSA 9s, making it a standout piece in any collection.
Balancing accessibility and value, the 1989 Fleer #21 card offers an affordable option for collectors, with PSA 10s averaging $925 and PSA 9s at $57. Despite the availability of PSA 9s, the rarity of PSA 10s propels their prices significantly higher.
Jordan’s second-year card, the 1987 Fleer #59, continues to draw attention, with PSA 10s averaging $16,000 and PSA 9s at $1,500. Even raw copies in near-mint condition fetch substantial prices, highlighting the lasting allure of this card in the market.
Michael Jordan’s cards transcend mere collectibles; they encapsulate the legacy of a sporting legend. Whether it’s the iconic 1986 Fleer rookie or a hidden gem like the 1990 Fleer, each card narrates a piece of history. Jordan’s enduring impact on the collectibles industry ensures that his cards will remain highly sought after for years to come, offering both sentimental and monetary value to fortunate collectors.
