Collectors are stunned.
Michael Jordan’s legacy continues to dominate the world of sports memorabilia, with one of his rookie cards recently selling for a record-breaking $2.5 million. The 1986-87 Fleer rookie card, autographed and graded PSA 9 with a perfect PSA 10 for the signature, became the most expensive Jordan rookie card ever sold. The transaction took place through Joopiter, the auction platform launched by music artist Pharrell Williams in 2022.
This specific card is part of a rare group signed by Jordan in 2024 at his private golf course in Florida. Only nine of these cards were autographed during the exclusive session, which had been in the works for nearly five years between Jordan, a dedicated collector, and Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Eight of the nine cards received exceptionally high grades, enhancing their value and significance in the collector community.
Joopiter highlighted that this was the first time a PSA 9 card with a PSA 10 signature had been publicly auctioned. It was also the auction house’s first foray into sports collectibles. According to Joopiter’s global head of sales, Caitlin Donovan, the move was inspired by growing demand from collectors interested in historic and iconic sports items. She emphasized the company’s intent to offer pieces rich in history and cultural significance.
Despite the impressive sale, two other Michael Jordan cards have fetched higher prices. One, a 1997-98 Upper Deck Game Jerseys Autograph card, sold for $2.7 million. Another, a 2003-04 Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Game-Used Logoman Patch, achieved nearly $2.93 million. These numbers reinforce Jordan’s enduring value in the collectibles market, decades after his retirement.
Overall, the record-breaking sale of the signed rookie card reflects both Jordan’s lasting cultural impact and the soaring demand for rare, authenticated sports memorabilia. With platforms like Joopiter entering the scene, collectors can expect more high-profile items to surface and potentially set new benchmarks.
