Uncovering Sports History: Hindman Presents Grails and Goats
Hindman is pleased to present an unopened box of 1986-87 Fleer Basketball Cards featuring a Michael Jordan Rookie Card No. 57 on top of one pack as the centerpiece of its March 24th single-owner Grails and GOATS auction. Remarkably preserved and completely untouched, this box is one of the finest examples of this storied issue to ever come to market. The centerpiece of our spring sports memorabilia auction, lot 48 is considered the ultimate treasure for basketball trading card hobbyists and is just one of the many highlights within this carefully curated 89-lot auction.
“Rarely do we come upon examples of unopened boxes like this from the 1986-1987 period that have been so perfectly maintained, let alone with one of the most sought-after cards, the No. 57 Michael Jordan rookie card on top,” commented James Smith, Hindman Director and Senior Specialist of Sports Memorabilia. “Not only is this box an incredible item on its own, it also anchors a collection that was curated with intention and care with the goal of creating the ultimate display of modern sports history.”
Breaking Down the Box
The unopened box of 1986-1987 Fleer Basketball cards (lot 48; estimate: $80,000-120,000) features 36 impeccably preserved packs of cards as originally issued by the factory, highlighted by the most renowned card, a pack with card No. 57 – a Michael Jordan rookie on top. The Jordan card captures an iconic moment soaring to the basket, tongue out and arm extended for a beautiful dunk. This seminal item was authenticated and reviewed Baseball Card Exchange.
In addition to its 36 preserved packs, this box also features four Michael Jordan rookie stickers throughout, completing this showstopping piece of sports history. As one of the most celebrated athletes of all time, Jordan’s rookie year encapsulates his essence and journey to the pinnacle of NBA history. His Fleer Jordan No. 57 is thus considered one of the most coveted cards within the hobby.
Whether leaving the box unopened, or breaking it down to its preserved packs, lot 48 as issued by Fleer is the perfect piece of sports memorabilia, frozen in time.
Bidding for the March 24th auction will begin at 10am CT and will be available online through Hindman’s Digital Bid Room. Click here to explore more highlights from this auction and to register to bid.