Michael Jordan began charting a path that would ultimately make him the greatest player in NBA history. Though he still has his detractors, no one can deny the unmatched quality, elegance, passion, and leadership he displayed throughout his years in the league.
In the 1980s, “His Airness” was already leaving traces of the legend he would become. Over time, he refined his game, and anyone who witnessed his talent on the hardwood can attest that few, if any, have ever reached his level.
That is why the treasures from his early NBA years have now turned into priceless collector’s items. A prime example is a 1986 rookie trading card of Jordan with his autograph, which reached a staggering price in a private sale, according to Golden Auction on Tuesday, October 21.
A historic record for Michael Jordan’s rookie card
Few could have imagined that a single autographed trading card of Michael Jordan would someday be worth such an extraordinary amount. Yet, against all odds, it happened.
The 1986 card from Jordan’s rookie season with the Chicago Bulls sold for an astounding $2.7 million, setting a new record as the most expensive Jordan card ever sold. This sale surpassed the previous benchmark of $2.5 million, also for an autographed 1986 Fleer Jordan card, which had been sold by Pharrell Williams’ auction house, Joopiter.
Both cards were certified for their autographs with a Mint 9 grade on the PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) 10-point scale, confirming their near-perfect condition and authenticity.
Signed rookie cards of greatest-of-all-time athletes, like Michael Jordan, represent the pinnacle of sports collectibles. This record-breaking sale is a testament not only to Jordan’s enduring legacy but also to the recognition of aftermarket-signed cards, which are truly elite pieces of memorabilia, especially when in high grade.
Said Ken Goldin, Founder and CEO of Goldin.
Why are Michael Jordan’s rookie cards so valuable?
Goldin offered insight into why Jordan’s rookie cards, particularly those bearing his autograph, are so coveted.
An ‘aftermarket signature’ delineation is given when an autograph is added to a card after its original release, rather than a card that is pre-signed by the player for inclusion in trading card packs by the manufacturer. Elevating the uniqueness of this piece is the surrounding time-period context: Prior to the 2000s, it was uncommon and taboo for collectors to ask athletes to sign high-value trading cards, leading to their exceptional rarity in today’s market.
Explained Goldin.
The truth is that everything Jordan achieved in his career continues to hold immense value for collectors. His unmatched influence on basketball, both as a player and as a cultural icon, ensures that any item associated with “His Airness” remains an enduring treasure for generations to come.
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