From Michael Jordan to LeBron James, here are the most expensive basketball cards, offering fans and investors a piece of basketball history.

The global sports trading card market, encompassing basketball cards, was valued at USD 12.62 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 23.08 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.80% from 2024 to 2031.

Basketball cards have long been a cherished collectible for fans of the sport, offering a tangible connection to the game’s greatest players and moments. Over the years, the trading card market has grown exponentially, with rare and iconic cards fetching staggering sums at auctions. 

For collectors and investors alike, understanding the most expensive basketball cards can provide insight into the market’s trends and the players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. 

Caitlin Clark's autographed WNBA Draft card sold for $84,000, setting a new record for women's basketball cards.

This article explores some of the most valuable basketball cards, their historical significance, and the factors that contribute to their high prices.

The rise of basketball card collecting

The history of basketball cards dates back to the late 1940s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that the hobby truly exploded in popularity. During this era, companies like Topps, Fleer, and Upper Deck produced cards featuring legendary players such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird. 

These cards became highly sought after, and their value has only increased over time. Today, the basketball card market is a multi-million-dollar industry, with rare cards often selling for six or even seven figures.

Several factors contribute to the value of a basketball card. These include the player’s legacy, the card’s rarity, its condition, and its historical significance. Cards featuring Hall of Famers or players who have achieved iconic status in the sport tend to command higher prices. 

Additionally, cards with limited print runs or unique attributes, such as autographs or game-worn memorabilia, are particularly valuable. Finally, the card’s condition, as graded by professional services like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or BGS (Beckett Grading Services), plays a crucial role in determining its worth.

From 2011 to 2019, the number of basketball cards submitted for professional grading increased by an astonishing 12,800%, indicating a surge in both collecting and investing activities.

The most expensive basketball cards

Below is a list of some of the most expensive basketball cards ever sold, along with details about their significance and the reasons behind their high valuations.

1. 2009-10 Panini National Treasures Stephen Curry Logoman Autograph Rookie Card (#206)

Sold for: $5.9 million (July 2021, Private Sale)

Stephen Curry’s impact on the NBA is immense, with multiple championships and MVP awards to his name. His 2009-10 Panini National Treasures Logoman rookie card is a one-of-one issue, making it extremely rare. This card, featuring his autograph and an NBA Logoman patch, set the record as the most expensive basketball card ever sold. The popularity of Curry’s memorabilia has only grown, as he is regarded as one of the greatest shooters in basketball history. With each milestone he achieves, the value of his collectibles continues to appreciate.

2. 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection LeBron James Rookie Patch Autograph (#78)

Sold for: $5.2 million (April 2021, PWCC Marketplace)

LeBron James, considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has numerous valuable cards in circulation. His 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection rookie patch autograph card is limited to just 23 copies, corresponding to his jersey number. This rarity and the quality of the card make it one of the most desirable among collectors. As LeBron continues to break records, including becoming the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, the demand for his cards remains exceptionally high.

3. 2018-19 Panini National Treasures Luka Dončić Logoman Autograph Rookie Card (#127)

Sold for: $4.6 million (February 2021, Private Sale)

Luka Dončić made a significant impact on the NBA early in his career, leading to an increased demand for his collectibles. His 2018-19 National Treasures Logoman rookie card is a one-of-one card that broke records when it was sold in 2021. Despite being ungraded at the time of sale, it remains one of the most valuable basketball cards in history. With Dončić’s continued dominance in the league and potential future MVP awards, his collectibles are expected to appreciate further in value.

4. 1997-98 Upper Deck Michael Jordan All-Star Game Used Jersey (#GJ13S)

Sold for: $2.7 million (October 2021, Goldin Auctions)

Michael Jordan’s legacy in basketball is unmatched, and his collectibles remain highly valuable. This particular card features an authenticated game-worn jersey from the 1997 NBA All-Star Game, where Jordan made history by recording a triple-double. Limited in production, this card is one of his most significant trading cards. As the face of basketball in the 1990s and a global sports icon, Jordan’s memorabilia continues to be some of the most coveted in the trading card industry.

5. 2013-14 Panini National Treasures Giannis Antetokounmpo Horizontal Rookie Patch Autograph (#130)

Sold for: $1.8 million (September 2020, Goldin Auctions)

Giannis Antetokounmpo has become one of the most dominant players in the NBA. His 2013-14 National Treasures Horizontal Rookie Patch Autograph card, featuring a unique design and a BGS 9 grading for condition, remains his most valuable card to date. With two MVP awards and an NBA Championship to his name, the Greek Freak’s achievements have significantly boosted the value of his trading cards.

6. 1996-97 Topps Chrome Kobe Bryant Refractor Rookie Card (#138)

Sold for: $1.8 million (March 2021, Goldin Auctions)

Kobe Bryant’s legacy continues to live on, making his rookie cards highly desirable. This Topps Chrome Refractor card, graded BGS 10 Black Label, is among the most valuable Kobe Bryant cards ever sold. Due to its rarity and pristine condition, it remains a highly sought-after collectible. As one of the most influential players in basketball history, Kobe’s memorabilia is expected to remain in high demand for generations to come.

7. 2004-05 Upper Deck LeBron James Ultimate Signatures Logos Logoman (#USLLJ)

Sold for: $1.29 million (March 2021, Goldin Auctions)

LeBron James appears multiple times on this list, and his Ultimate Signatures Logoman card from 2004-05 is another highly valued piece. This one-of-one card, featuring his signature, highlights his continued impact on the basketball card market. As he extends his career and continues to achieve milestones, the value of his memorabilia remains at an all-time high.

8. 2013-14 Panini Prizm Giannis Antetokounmpo Prizms Black Mosaic Rookie Card (#290)

Sold for: $1.14 million (December 2020, Goldin Auctions)

This one-of-one Black Mosaic rookie card of Giannis Antetokounmpo has a near-perfect BGS 9.5 grading. As his second most valuable card, it continues to attract high interest from collectors. Given Giannis’ young age and potential for more championships, this card’s value could increase significantly in the future.

9. 2002-03 Upper Deck Kobe Bryant Autograph Logoman (#KBNBA)

Sold for: $922,500 (October 2021, Goldin Auctions)

Kobe Bryant’s Logoman card from the 2002-03 Upper Deck series was his first-ever Logoman card, making it a significant collector’s piece. With a BGS 9 grading for the card’s condition and a BGS 10 for his autograph, it remains one of his most valuable cards. The rarity of this card, combined with Bryant’s legendary career, ensures its place among the most expensive basketball cards.

10. 1980-81 Topps Larry Bird/Julius Erving/Magic Johnson Scoring Leader

Sold for: $840,000 (August 2021, Goldin Auctions)

This vintage card features three legendary players: Larry Bird, Julius Erving, and Magic Johnson. While it has a high total population, only a small fraction have received a PSA 10 grading, contributing to its high value. Considered a rookie card for both Bird and Johnson, this card is a must-have for collectors of classic basketball memorabilia.

Factors that determine basketball card value

The value of a basketball card is determined by several factors:

• - Player popularity – Cards featuring legendary players such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant tend to be more valuable.
• - Rarity and print runs – Limited edition and one-of-a-kind cards (such as Logoman patches) command higher prices.
• - Condition and grading – Cards graded PSA 10 (Gem Mint) or BGS 9.5/10 typically sell for much higher prices.
• - Historical significance – Cards that represent key moments in basketball history, such as rookie year editions, hold greater value.
• - Autographs and memorabilia – Cards with player autographs or game-worn jersey patches tend to be more valuable.

Final thoughts 

The most expensive basketball cards are more than just pieces of cardboard; they are pieces of history that capture the legacy of the sport’s greatest players. From Michael Jordan’s iconic rookie card to LeBron James’ record-breaking Exquisite Collection, these cards represent the pinnacle of basketball card collecting. 

As the market continues to evolve, these cards will likely remain highly sought after, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of basketball and its legends. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, understanding the value and significance of these cards can enhance your appreciation for the rich history of the sport.