1987 Fleer Michael Jordan: A Collector's Guide

The 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is one of the most iconic and sought-after basketball cards ever produced. A cornerstone of any serious sports card collection, this card represents a key moment in Michael Jordan's legendary career and the hobby itself. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the card, its history, value, grading, and everything else a collector needs to know.

Why the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan Card is So Popular

The 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card holds a special place in the hearts of collectors for several reasons:

• Michael Jordan's Legacy: Arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan's impact on the sport and popular culture is undeniable. His cards are highly desirable due to his legendary status.
• Iconic Design: The card features a dynamic image of Jordan soaring through the air, perfectly capturing his athleticism and grace. The Fleer design from 1987, while simple, is instantly recognizable.
• Key Rookie Card: While not technically Jordan's true rookie card (that honor belongs to the 1984-85 Star Co. card, which was less widely distributed), the 1987 Fleer card is considered his most important and widely collected mainstream rookie card.
• Nostalgia: For many collectors, this card evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding them of their childhood and the golden age of basketball card collecting.
• Investment Potential: The value of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card has steadily increased over the years, making it a popular investment for collectors.

Understanding the 1987 Fleer Basketball Set

The 1987 Fleer basketball set was a landmark release for the hobby. It marked Fleer's return to the basketball card market after a long hiatus and featured a star-studded lineup of players, including: — Is LeBron James Dead? Debunking The Rumors

• Michael Jordan
• Charles Barkley
• Clyde Drexler
• Patrick Ewing
• Karl Malone
• Hakeem Olajuwon

The set consists of 132 cards and is known for its distinctive design, which features a glossy finish and a bright red border. However, the set is also notorious for its production flaws, including centering issues, print defects, and rough edges, which can impact the condition and value of the cards.

Identifying the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan Card

The 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is #59 in the set. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

• Front: Features a full-color action shot of Michael Jordan in mid-air, wearing his Chicago Bulls uniform. The Fleer logo is in the upper left corner, and "Michael Jordan" is printed in bold white letters across the bottom.
• Back: Includes Jordan's biographical information, statistics, and a brief write-up about his career. The card number (#59) is located in the upper left corner.
• Card Size: Standard trading card size (2.5 inches by 3.5 inches).

Factors Affecting the Value of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan Card

The value of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is influenced by several factors:

• Condition: The condition of the card is the most significant factor. Cards in near-mint or mint condition command the highest prices. Key condition factors include centering, edges, corners, and surface.
• Grading: Professional grading by reputable companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) significantly impacts value. A higher grade translates to a higher value.
• Rarity: While not inherently rare, high-grade examples of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card are relatively scarce due to the production flaws of the set.
• Market Demand: The demand for Michael Jordan memorabilia, in general, influences the card's value. Periods of heightened interest in Jordan, such as during documentaries or anniversaries, can drive up prices.

How to Determine the Condition of Your Card

Assessing the condition of your 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is crucial for determining its value. Here's a breakdown of the key factors to consider:

• Centering: The image should be centered on the card. Off-center cards are less desirable.
• Edges: The edges should be sharp and free from chipping, fraying, or wear.
• Corners: The corners should be sharp and square, without any rounding or damage.
• Surface: The surface should be clean and free from scratches, creases, or print defects.

Understanding Card Grading

Professional card grading involves submitting your card to a grading company, which will assess its condition and assign it a grade on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest (Gem Mint). The two most reputable grading companies are:

• PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator): PSA is the industry leader in card grading and is known for its rigorous standards.
• SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation): SGC is another respected grading company, known for its expertise in vintage cards.

A graded card not only authenticates the card but also provides a standardized assessment of its condition, making it easier for buyers and sellers to agree on a fair price. Cards graded PSA 10 or SGC 10 command significant premiums.

Where to Buy and Sell the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan Card

There are several avenues for buying and selling the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card:

• Online Marketplaces: eBay, PWCC Marketplace, and MySlabs are popular online platforms for buying and selling sports cards. These platforms offer a wide selection of cards and provide a secure way to transact.
• Auction Houses: Auction houses like Heritage Auctions and Goldin Auctions specialize in high-end sports memorabilia and often feature significant examples of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card.
• Card Shows: Attending card shows is a great way to connect with other collectors, see cards in person, and potentially find a deal.
• Local Card Shops: Many local card shops buy and sell vintage cards. This can be a good option for selling your card quickly or finding a specific card.

Price History and Current Market Value

The value of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card has fluctuated over time, but it has generally trended upward. Factors such as Michael Jordan's performance, documentaries like "The Last Dance," and the overall growth of the sports card market have influenced its price. — Hawks Vs. Knicks: Game Breakdown & Predictions

As of [Insert Current Date], the approximate values for the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card in different grades are:

• Ungraded (Excellent to Near Mint): $200 - $400
• PSA 8: $500 - $800
• PSA 9: $1,500 - $3,000
• PSA 10: $20,000+

These prices are estimates and can vary depending on market conditions and specific card attributes. It's always recommended to research recent sales data on platforms like eBay and PWCC Marketplace to get an accurate assessment of current market value.

Investment Potential of the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan Card

The 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is considered a blue-chip investment in the sports card hobby. Its iconic status, Jordan's enduring popularity, and the card's historical significance suggest it will continue to hold value over the long term. — Rockets Vs Cavaliers: A Complete NBA Timeline

However, like any investment, there are risks to consider. The sports card market can be volatile, and prices can fluctuate. It's essential to do your research, understand the market dynamics, and only invest what you can afford to lose.

Tips for Buying and Selling the Card

Here are some tips for buying and selling the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card:

• Do Your Research: Understand the market value of the card in different grades. Use online resources and sales data to inform your decisions.
• Inspect the Card Carefully: If buying in person, carefully inspect the card for any signs of damage or wear. Ask for high-resolution images if buying online.
• Buy Graded Cards from Reputable Companies: If you're looking for investment-grade cards, focus on examples graded by PSA or SGC.
• Sell on Reputable Platforms: Use trusted online marketplaces or auction houses to ensure a secure transaction.
• Be Patient: The sports card market can fluctuate, so be patient and don't rush into buying or selling decisions.

Common Misconceptions about the Card

There are a few common misconceptions about the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card:

• It's Jordan's Only Rookie Card: As mentioned earlier, the 1984-85 Star Co. card is technically Jordan's true rookie card, although the 1987 Fleer card is more widely recognized and collected.
• All 1987 Fleer Cards are Valuable: While the Jordan card is highly valuable, most other cards in the set are relatively affordable. The key is to identify the star players and high-grade examples.
• Grading Guarantees Value Increase: While grading generally increases a card's value, it's not a guarantee. The grade must be high enough to justify the cost of grading, and market demand still plays a significant role.

Conclusion

The 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card is a true icon of the sports card hobby. Its significance, beauty, and investment potential make it a must-have for any serious collector. By understanding its history, condition factors, and market dynamics, you can confidently navigate the world of 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card collecting.

FAQ

Q: What is the highest grade a 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card can receive? A: The highest grade is a 10, often referred to as Gem Mint.

Q: What is the difference between PSA and SGC grading? A: Both are reputable grading companies, but PSA is generally considered the industry leader and often commands higher premiums for its graded cards.

Q: How can I protect my 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card? A: Use a card sleeve and a hard plastic top loader to protect the card from damage. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Q: Is the 1987 Fleer Michael Jordan card a good investment? A: It's considered a blue-chip investment in the sports card hobby, but like any investment, there are risks involved. Do your research and understand the market before investing.

Q: Where can I find the latest market value of the card? A: Check online marketplaces like eBay, PWCC Marketplace, and MySlabs for recent sales data.

Q: What are some common flaws found on 1987 Fleer cards? A: Common flaws include centering issues, print defects, rough edges, and surface scratches.