10 HOT 1990s BASE CARDS AND INSERTS

The explosion of the hobby in the 1990s coincided with the Chicago Bulls’ six championships. Today, collectors are focusing on Jordan’s cards during that time, both base cards and inserts, and reliving those cards they collected more than 20 years ago. Here are 10 that collectors are chasing the most.

1992-93 STADIUM CLUB BEAM TEAM #1

Beam Team was a hot insert through most of the ’90s, and this is card #1 in the first insert. The laser show holographic design and intense photo of Jordan rising for a dunk make it one of the most visually appealing options in the ’90s. It can be had for around $200.

1992-93 TOPPS ARCHIVES #52

Topps did not produce NBA cards from 1984 to 1991. So, this Topps Archives card illustrates what a 1984 Topps Michael Jordan Rookie Card likely would have looked liked, featuring the 1984 Topps baseball design. Even the card back features his college stats. It’s an easy pickup for about $10. A Gold parallel with a gold foil stamp and print run of 10,000 tops out at $50.

1993-94 FINEST #1

The first Topps Finest basketball release might be the most recognizable of all Finest designs with its busy and colorful background. Jordan was given card #1 in the set, featuring a photo that looks like he’s dunking right on top of you. This is one of the more expensive ’90s base cards but can still be found for around $100.

1993-94 ULTRA SCORING KINGS #5

This has become a premier target for Jordan collectors. It’s one of those cards you have to appreciate in person, as the shimmering treatment reveals the cool lightning bolts in the background for a high-energy look. Jordan appears to be finishing through a game-winning shot. This tops out at around $500. Mint 9 grades can bring $1,400.

1996-97 TOPPS CHROME #139

Topps Chrome was a massive hit when it released, and this first basketball set is incredibly impactful since it features Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Card. This Jordan, however, may be his most popular base card since his ’80s cards. It can be found for less than $200. The Refractor version can bring $7,000 or more.

1996-97 E-X2000 #9

The first E-X2000 set was a hit utilizing acetate stock behind the player photo that pops off the card. It’s the first of a few popular E-X base cards. This one can be had for about $50. The Essential Credentials parallel has a white border with a run of 499 that can bring more than $10,000.

1996-97 E-X2000 NET ASSETS #8

Sticking with the E-X2000 release, this cool Net Assets insert has intricate die-cutting to create a realistic-looking net behind the player photo. These weren’t too hard to find coming one per box. The Jordan goes for a little more than $300, but because of the die-cutting, is very susceptible to damage.

1996-97 Z-FORCE BIG MEN ON COURT #4

Another card perfect for 1990s culture, this die-cut Big Men on Court has a loud cartoon-like font. It’s one of Jordan’s most recognizable cards of the decade. Sales bring more than $1,000, but like with other die-cuts, it is susceptible to edge damage.