Michael Jordan isn’t just a basketball icon; he’s a global phenomenon whose impact transcends the game. Over 20 years since his retirement, Jordan’s trading cards remain some of the most coveted and graded in the industry. With unmatched demand and enduring popularity, Jordan’s cards have cemented themselves as timeless collectibles.
Jordan’s dominance isn’t limited to the court. His cards have been graded a jaw-dropping 1.59 million times—more than twice the number of any other athlete. The next closest, Ken Griffey Jr., clocks in at just over 750,000 cards graded. This disparity underscores Jordan’s unparalleled status in the hobby.
The 1986 Fleer rookie card, one of the most recognizable pieces of sports memorabilia, epitomizes his collecting appeal. Although widely available, its value continues to skyrocket in top condition. Like Jordan’s Air Jordans, this card is frequently duplicated and forged, making professional grading essential.
For collectors, it’s not just about owning a Jordan card—it’s about owning a PSA 10 Gem Mint version. Even cards with high production numbers can command staggering prices if they’re in flawless condition. This pursuit of perfection has made Jordan’s cards some of the most submitted and graded in the hobby.
Let’s take a closer look at his most graded cards and their current market values.
**Michael Jordan’s Top Graded Cards and What They’re Worth**
1. 1990 Fleer #26
– Graded Copies: PSA – 61,132; SGC – 8,000; Beckett – 6,011
– PSA 10 Population: 7,777
– Value: PSA 10 averages $180, PSA 8 averages $13
– Popular among collectors, achieving a PSA 10 grade significantly increases its value.
2. 1986 Fleer #57
– Graded Copies: PSA – 28,051; Beckett – 14,370; SGC – 4,033
– PSA 10 Population: 332
– Value: PSA 10 averages $183,000, PSA 9 averages $17,500, PSA 1 averages $1,960
– The Holy Grail of Jordan cards, highly sought after for its iconic rookie status.
3. 1989 Hoops #200
– Graded Copies: PSA – 33,372; SGC – 4,328; Beckett – 3,263
– PSA 10 Population: 5,940
– Value: PSA 10 averages $140, PSA 9 averages $22
– A nostalgic piece from the late ’80s, offering affordability with collectability.
4. 1988 Fleer #17
– Graded Copies: PSA – 27,596; Beckett – 6,225; SGC – 3,994
– PSA 10 Population: 652
– Value: PSA 10 averages $3,000, PSA 9 averages $241
– Highly desirable with low PSA 10 populations, fetching top dollar.
5. 1991 Upper Deck #SP1
– Graded Copies: PSA – 28,070; SGC – 4,548; Beckett – 4,464
– PSA 10 Population: 2,773
– Value: PSA 10 averages $380, PSA 9 averages $47
– Unique crossover appeal, part of the 1991 Upper Deck Baseball set.
6. 1986 Fleer Sticker #8
– Graded Copies: PSA – 20,995; Beckett – 7,462; SGC – 2,965
– PSA 10 Population: 121
– Value: PSA 10 averages $40,000, PSA 9 averages $3,600
– Prized rookie sticker with a tiny PSA 10 population, commanding top dollar.
7. 1989 Fleer #21
– Graded Copies: PSA – 25,251; Beckett – 3,209; SGC – 2,527
– PSA 10 Population: 1,224
– Value: PSA 10 averages $925, PSA 9 averages $57
– Balance of accessibility and value, with rare PSA 10s fetching higher prices.
8. 1987 Fleer #59
– Graded Copies: PSA – 20,581; Beckett – 6,582; SGC – 3,075
– PSA 10 Population: 215
– Value: PSA 10 averages $16,000, PSA 9 averages $1,500
– Second-year card attracting attention, proving enduring appeal even in near-mint condition.
Michael Jordan’s cards are more than collectibles—they’re pieces of history that capture the legacy of one of the greatest athletes of all time. Whether you’re chasing his iconic 1986 Fleer rookie or adding an affordable gem like the 1990 Fleer to your collection, every card tells a story.
Jordan’s impact on the hobby is unmatched, and his cards will continue to be a cornerstone for collectors for generations to come. As long as his name is synonymous with greatness, his cards will remain highly sought after, offering both emotional and financial value to those lucky enough to own them.
