The year 1992 was a big one for the sports card industry, especially basketball cards. It marked the first year of the modern era for basketball cards, with Upper Deck launching its iconic SP series. It was also the first year for Fleer Ultra, Stadium Club, and many other brands. But which of these 1992 cards are the most valuable? Here, we’ll look at some of the most sought-after 1992 basketball cards and the reasons why they bring such high prices in the market.
Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal
Unsurprisingly, two of the most valuable 1992 basketball cards are of two of the biggest stars of the era: Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal. Jordan was in the midst of his prime, with back-to-back MVP awards and three consecutive NBA titles under his belt. O’Neal, meanwhile, had just been chosen first overall in the 1992 draft and was already becoming one of the league’s most exciting players.
Michael Jordan’s 1992-93 Upper Deck SP #1 is the most sought-after of the year and can bring upwards of $5,000 in the right condition. The 1992-93 Fleer Ultra #1 is also highly collectible, with high-grade copies selling for $2,000 or more. Shaquille O’Neal’s 1992-93 Upper Deck #1 is also a sought-after card, with high-grade copies selling for around $1,500.
Rookie Cards
In addition to the stars of the era, 1992 was also the first year for many of the superstars of the future. As such, the rookie cards of these players are also some of the most valuable 1992 basketball cards.
One of the most sought-after rookie cards of the year is Anfernee Hardaway’s 1992-93 Upper Deck SP #361. A high-grade copy of this card can sell for more than $1,000. Alonzo Mourning’s 1992-93 Stadium Club #220 is also highly collectible, with high-grade copies bringing in around $500.
Other Notable Cards
In addition to the star players and rookies, there are a few other notable cards from 1992 that are particularly valuable. The 1992-93 Fleer Ultra #179 of Scottie Pippen is one of the most valuable non-rookie cards of the year, with high-grade copies selling for more than $500. The 1992-93 Upper Deck #1 of Charles Barkley is another valuable card, with high-grade copies selling for around $400.
Conclusion
The 1992 basketball card market was a major turning point for the sports card industry and there are many valuable cards from the year. The most valuable cards are those of Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and their rookie cards. Other notable cards include those of Scottie Pippen and Charles Barkley, which can also bring in substantial prices. For collectors looking for a piece of basketball history, 1992 is a great year to explore.