The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been around for over 70 years and has produced some of the greatest players in sports history. As such, it’s no surprise that NBA rookie cards have become highly sought-after collectibles. But what is the rarest NBA rookie card?
To answer this question, we must first understand what makes an NBA rookie card rare. Generally speaking, the rarity of an NBA rookie card is determined by three factors: the player’s popularity, the card’s condition, and the number of cards produced. Taking these factors into account, there are several NBA rookie cards that can be considered the rarest.
Michael Jordan’s 1985-86 Star Company Rookie Card
The 1985-86 Star Company rookie card of NBA legend Michael Jordan is one of the rarest and most valuable NBA rookie cards of all time. The card was produced in limited quantities and is highly sought after by collectors. In recent years, this rookie card has sold for over $100,000 dollars.
Kobe Bryant’s 1996-97 Topps Chrome Refractor Rookie Card
Kobe Bryant was one of the most popular players in NBA history and his rookie cards are highly sought after by collectors. His 1996-97 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card is extremely rare, with only 23 copies ever produced. This card has sold for over $50,000 dollars in recent years.
LeBron James’s 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Rookie Card
LeBron James is one of the greatest players in NBA history and his rookie cards are some of the most valuable on the market. His 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection rookie card is one of the rarest and most valuable of all. Only 23 copies of this card were ever produced, making it highly sought after by collectors. This card has sold for over $50,000 dollars in recent years.
Shaquille O’Neal’s 1992-93 Skybox Rookie Card
Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominant players in the NBA during his career and his rookie cards are highly sought after by collectors. His 1992-93 Skybox rookie card is one of the rarest and most valuable of all. Only 23 copies of this card were ever produced, making it highly sought after by collectors. This card has sold for over $50,000 dollars in recent years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several NBA rookie cards that can be considered the rarest. Michael Jordan’s 1985-86 Star Company rookie card, Kobe Bryant’s 1996-97 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card, LeBron James’s 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection rookie card, and Shaquille O’Neal’s 1992-93 Skybox rookie card are all some of the rarest and most valuable NBA rookie cards of all time. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for these cards, with some selling for over $50,000 dollars.