Signed Michael Jordan Rookie card sets record
Michael Jordan’s iconic 1986 Fleer Rookie card has set numerous hobby records. Now an autographed copy of the classic card has set another new mark.
A 1986 Fleer #57 Jordan rookie, graded PSA MINT 9 with a 10 autograph, sold for $2.7 million in private sale through Goldin. The sale is a record for the highest price ever paid for a trading card with an aftermarket signature.
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The previous record for an autographed Jordan rookie was $2.5 million, set earlier this year. The record for any Jordan rookie is $2.92 million.
An “aftermarket signature” is an autograph that is added to a card after its original release, rather than pre-signed by the player for inclusion in card packs by the manufacturer.
According to Goldin, it was uncommon and taboo for collectors to ask athletes to sign high-value trading cards prior to the 2000s, leading to exceptional rarity in today’s market.
Jordan autographs are also scarce. The NBA legend has had an exclusive license with Upper Deck since 1992, making his signature one of the most difficult to obtain.
Authenticated, high-grade examples of Jordan’s signed rookie card have become highly sought after by collectors.
“Signed rookie cards of ‘greatest of all time athletes’ like Michael Jordan represent the pinnacle of sports collectibles,” said Ken Goldin, founder and CEO of Goldin. “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.”