Michael Jordan, a basketball legend whose influence transcends the court, has left an indelible mark on the trading card industry. Two decades after his retirement, Jordan’s cards are among the most desired and graded in the hobby, solidifying their status as timeless collectibles.
The sheer volume of graded Michael Jordan cards speaks to his enduring popularity. With a staggering 1.59 million cards graded, Jordan surpasses all other athletes by a wide margin. The iconic 1986 Fleer rookie card, a staple in sports memorabilia, continues to increase in value despite its widespread availability. Professional grading is essential due to the prevalence of counterfeits, mirroring the scrutiny applied to Jordan’s sneakers.
Collectors aspire to own a PSA 10 Gem Mint version of a Jordan card, valuing flawless condition above all else. This pursuit of perfection has driven a significant number of submissions and gradings, underscoring the demand for pristine Jordan cards in the market.
Let’s delve into the top graded Michael Jordan cards and their current market values to grasp the diversity and allure of his collectibles.
1. 1990 Fleer #26
– PSA Graded: 61,132
– PSA 10 Value: $180
– PSA 8 Value: $13
– A foundational card for Jordan collectors, with substantial graded copies and increased value at PSA 10.
2. 1986 Fleer #57
– PSA Graded: 28,051
– PSA 10 Value: $183,000
– PSA 9 Value: $17,500
– PSA 1 Value: $1,960
– The Holy Grail of Jordan cards, highly sought after due to limited PSA 10 population and iconic rookie status.
3. 1989 Hoops #200
– PSA Graded: 33,372
– PSA 10 Value: $140
– PSA 9 Value: $22
– An affordable yet nostalgic piece from the late ’80s, appealing to both new and seasoned collectors.
4. 1988 Fleer #17
– PSA Graded: 27,596
– PSA 10 Value: $3,000
– PSA 9 Value: $241
– High desirability attributed to the low PSA 10 population, prompting continued submissions for the elusive Gem Mint grade.
5. 1991 Upper Deck #SP1
– PSA Graded: 28,070
– PSA 10 Value: $380
– PSA 9 Value: $47
– Unique crossover appeal within the 1991 Upper Deck Baseball set, sustaining popularity with distinctive design and rarity in top grades.
6. 1986 Fleer Sticker #8
– PSA Graded: 20,995
– PSA 10 Value: $40,000
– PSA 9 Value: $3,600
– A prized rookie sticker highlighting Jordan’s early career, commanding a premium due to its scarcity in top condition.
7. 1989 Fleer #21
– PSA Graded: 25,251
– PSA 10 Value: $925
– PSA 9 Value: $57
– Balancing accessibility and value, with rare PSA 10s fetching premium prices against more common PSA 9s.
8. 1987 Fleer #59
– PSA Graded: 20,581
– PSA 10 Value: $16,000
– PSA 9 Value: $1,500
– Continued interest in Jordan’s second-year card, with even raw near-mint copies commanding significant prices, showcasing enduring appeal.
Michael Jordan’s cards encapsulate not just collectibles but pieces of history narrating the legacy of a sports icon. Whether pursuing the iconic 1986 Fleer rookie marvel or seeking hidden gems like the 1990 Fleer, each card contributes to the tapestry of Jordan’s greatness.
Jordan’s influence on the hobby is unrivaled, guaranteeing his cards a prominent place in collections for years to come. As long as his name evokes greatness, his cards will retain high demand, offering both sentimental and financial value to fortunate owners.
