Uncovering a Basketball Card Treasure in Tucson
In a stunning turn of events, a remarkable find has emerged from the modest surroundings of a home in Tucson, Arizona: a staggering collection of over 500 Michael Jordan sports cards. This collection, which has spent nearly two decades tucked away in various shoe boxes, is now making headlines as it prepares to enter the sports card market, with significant interest anticipated from collectors across the globe.
The story behind this extraordinary collection begins with a man who recently inherited his brother's extensive and rare sports card compilation. Upon discovering the boxes filled with pristine cards, he reached out to Auction Monthly, specialists in the auctioning of sports memorabilia and collectibles. According to reports, the collection is valued well into the six-figure range, marking it as a treasure for enthusiasts and investors alike.
The former owner of these cards dedicated a significant portion of his life to amassing nearly every Michael Jordan refractor card from the 1990s to the early 2000s. This tireless pursuit showcases a level of commitment and passion rarely seen in the world of sports card collecting. The collection boasts a wide array of refractor and atomic refractor cards across different brands, beginning from the iconic 1993 Finest series up to Jordan's final playing days with the Washington Wizards.
Ryan Jones, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Auction Monthly, expressed excitement over this incredible find. “The sheer volume of high-grade Michael Jordan cards, along with the inclusion of rare inserts and cards from basketball legends like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, makes this a once-in-a-generation discovery. We expect markedly high interest from collectors worldwide.”
Among the highlights of this extraordinary collection are several incredibly rare insert cards, including
Precious Metal Gems,
Star Rubies, and
Ultra Gold Stars. Notably, two of the 2001 Topps Chrome Black Refractors /50 cards—of which only 50 were produced—are part of this collection. Other stunning pieces include:
- - 1996 Flair Showcase Row O Legacy Collection /150
- - 1997 Skybox E-X2001 Jambalaya
- - Multiple East-West Michael Jordan / Kobe Bryant Refractors
- - Ultra Power Supreme 1996 Topps Chrome
- - 1998 Topps Chrome Preview Jordan Refractors
As it stands, the collection is currently undergoing professional grading, with several cards being sent to PSA for evaluation. For avid collectors, a significant number of cards will soon be accessible to the public via
Auction Monthly's website. Those interested can keep updated through their social media profiles on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Auction Monthly prides itself on facilitating vintage and modern sports card sales with unparalleled customer service. Their reputation for achieving top prices and providing white-glove treatment to clients has garnered the trust of collectors. The organization has also developed a referral program that boasts high rates for influencers and athletes in the sports card industry.
This recent discovery not only highlights the enduring appeal of sports cards but also serves as a reminder of the untold stories and treasures that lie hidden—waiting to be uncovered. With this collection up for auction, excitement is building among collectors eager to own a piece of basketball history. Stay tuned to Auction Monthly for the latest updates and insights into this incredible collection.