10 Most Valuable Michael Jordan Baseball Cards Collectors Crave
The Story Behind Michael Jordan’s Baseball Cards
Michael Jordan is a sports icon best known for his dominance in basketball. However, the chapters of his athletic career include an unexpected venture into Minor League Baseball during the 1994 season. After stepping away from the NBA following the 1993–94 season, Jordan joined the baseball world, delighting a new set of fans and sparking a surge in collectible cards featuring his likeness in a baseball uniform. Collectors have found these rare cards to be valuable pieces of sports history. This guide uncovers the top 10 most valuable Michael Jordan baseball cards and what makes each of them a prized addition.
10. 1994 Upper Deck – Next Generation Electric Diamond Parallel #8
The 1994 Upper Deck Next Generation Electric Diamond Parallel card holds the 10th spot among Jordan’s most sought-after baseball collectibles. A PSA 10-graded example reached $898 at auction in May 2020, and versions graded PSA 8 can be found for around $250.
9. 1994 Upper Deck – Next Generation Electric Diamond Base #8
Closely related to the previous card, this entry is the base variant of the same 1994 Upper Deck Next Generation card. While PSA 9-graded base cards have averaged $81.57 in recent sales, a PSA 10 achieved an impressive $898.88 sale in April 2021, demonstrating the high value attached to perfect-condition cards.
8. 1994 Upper Deck #19
While most PSA 10 copies of this card fetch an average of $668.94, one remarkable sale in May 2021 soared to $932.28. This card captures Jordan’s brief foray on the baseball field and is among the favorites for collectors aiming for rarity and historical significance.
7. 1991 Ballstreet Hand Cut #19
A unique entry on this list, the 1991 Ballstreet Hand Cut card is considered a rarity among collectors. Only one known PSA 10 was recorded sold online, reaching a price of $999.99. However, less pristine, ungraded copies can be acquired for around $15, offering a more accessible option for enthusiasts.
6. 1995 Collector’s Choice Special Edition – Gold Signature #238
Michael Jordan’s 1995 Collector’s Choice Special Edition card is distinguished by gold-bordered and facsimile-signed versions. The gold signature edition is the most coveted, with a PSA 10 fetching $1,125 at auction in April 2021. This card forms part of a trio of unique border color variants within the set.
5. 1994 Collector’s Choice – Gold Signature #661
Part of the highly collectible Rookie Class subset, this 1994 Collector’s Choice Gold Signature features Jordan alongside other notable athletes like Manny Ramirez and Carlos Delgado. The gold signature parallel, graded PSA 10, once sold for $1,878, making it a coveted piece among baseball and Jordan fans alike.
4. 1994 Collector’s Choice – Gold Signature #23
Gold signature cards hold special allure—especially with Jordan’s famous #23. This particular 1994 Collector’s Choice card featuring his iconic number topped out at $2,005 at auction in 2021. For collectors, the combination of gold signature and jersey number dramatically boosts its appeal.
3. 1994 Upper Deck SP – Holoview Red #16
Stepping up in both rarity and price, the 1994 Upper Deck SP Holoview Red card commanded a record $6,400 for a PSA 10, while a PSA 9 variant sold for just $454.88. This is the first White Sox card on the list to eclipse the $5,000 mark, making it a pivotal item for MJ baseball memorabilia collectors.
2. 1990 SCD Baseball Pocket Price Guides – Hand Cut #51
The runner-up is the 1990 SCD Baseball Pocket Price Guides Hand Cut card, with a high sale recorded for a PSA 10 at $16,993. Notably, this card predates Jordan’s official baseball playing days, featuring him as a basketball star who moonlighted in White Sox batting practice. SCD included him alongside Major League greats after a memorable off-season showing.
1. 1991 Upper Deck #SP1
Taking the crown as the most valuable Michael Jordan baseball card, the 1991 Upper Deck #SP1 is a collector’s dream. Although typical PSA 10 copies sell for $650.75, a pristine, black-label grade shot up to $18,988—setting the record for Jordan’s baseball card market. This card famously highlights Jordan taking batting practice before the “Windy City Classic” charity game, cementing its legacy as a unique crossover collectible.
A Closer Look: Pricing Summary Table
| Card | Year | Card # | Notable Feature | Highest Recorded Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Deck Next Generation Electric Diamond Parallel | 1994 | #8 | Parallel variant, PSA 10 | $898 |
| Upper Deck Next Generation Electric Diamond Base | 1994 | #8 | Base variant, PSA 10 | $898.88 |
| Upper Deck | 1994 | #19 | Baseball action shot | $932.28 |
| Ballstreet Hand Cut | 1991 | #19 | Rare, hand cut | $999.99 |
| Collector’s Choice Special Edition Gold Signature | 1995 | #238 | Gold signature parallel | $1,125 |
| Collector’s Choice Gold Signature | 1994 | #661 | Rookie Class, gold signature | $1,878 |
| Collector’s Choice Gold Signature | 1994 | #23 | Gold signature, #23 | $2,005 |
| Upper Deck SP Holoview Red | 1994 | #16 | Holoview red parallel | $6,400 |
| SCD Baseball Pocket Price Guides Hand Cut | 1990 | #51 | Hand cut, basketball image | $16,993 |
| Upper Deck | 1991 | #SP1 | Windy City Classic photo | $18,988 |
Why Are Michael Jordan Baseball Cards Highly Valued?
The unique intersection of Michael Jordan’s basketball legacy and his rare stint in baseball has made these cards particularly intriguing to hobbyists and investors alike. Their value is further enhanced by factors such as low print runs, pristine grading, and the historical novelty of Jordan’s baseball journey. Cards in top condition—especially those graded a perfect 10 or marked with exclusive features like gold signatures—consistently command the highest premiums.
Conclusion: A Confluence of Sporting Legends and Collecting
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan of Michael Jordan, his baseball-era trading cards encapsulate a remarkable chapter in sports history. The stunning prices achieved at auction attest to both the rarity and enduring fascination with “His Airness” and his multi-sport achievements. For anyone looking to add a showpiece to their collection or simply appreciate a unique slice of sports memorabilia, these cards are a must-know.
