Tragedy struck in the sports world when Kobe Bryant passed away in January 2020 due to a horrific helicopter accident at the age of 41. But, he was one of the most recognizable players in recent NBA history, and his legacy remains unforgettable.
Kobe's 20-plus year career in pro basketball was highlighted by scoring an unheard-of 81 points in 2006 against Toronto, along with a career-high of 12 three-pointers in 2003 against Seattle. He received four NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player awards and was recognized with countless honors for his basketball skills that rivaled the best of the best.
Basketball fans' love and admiration for Bryant can be clearly seen in the value of his trading cards. The most expensive Kobe Bryant card was the 1996-1997 Topps Chrome Rookie Refractor (BGS Black Label), selling for $1.75 million. He will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest NBA players of all time. This card is in pristine condition, receiving a BGS Black Label grade.
In this article, we’ll talk about some of the most valuable Kobe Bryant basketball cards and how much the most hardcore collectors are willing to spend to get their hands on one of this legend’s memorabilia.
Whether you are a Kobe Bryant fan or simply wish to dive deeper into the investment of an expensive card, then keep reading to see which one sparks your interest.
2000 Upper Deck Michael Jordan/Kobe Bryant (Game Jerseys Combo 2)
Featuring another basketball legend, Michael Jordan, this card was sold in April 2021 for a whopping $516,000. The front features a patch of both their worn uniforms in addition to photographs. While not perfectly graded (BGS 8.5) this card carries a tremendous value because of its scarcity and the greatness of the combo on the card. The back includes the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers’ logos alongside a note from the CEO of the producer describing the authenticity of the autographs.
This card was produced twenty years ago and still has such gravity, especially after Bryant’s funeral, that Jordan attended and claimed him to be his little brother. This is one of the most important and craved trading cards produced in the last few decades and is deemed as the crown jewel of jersey editions. It also ranks 5th on the list of most expensive Michael Jordan basketball cards.
Based on the combination of both basketball icons and the card’s rarity, the price is extremely high, battling for the attention of countless collectors. Only two exist, and this edition symbolizes so much more than just a trading card.
1996 Topps Chrome Kobe Bryant (Refractor)
The majority of the most expensive Kobe Bryant rookie cards were variations of the previously mentioned 1996-97 Topps Chrome Rookie Refractor. The drastic drop in price from a BGS Black Label and PSA 10 is a good indication of just how coveted the Black Label designation can be. With a price tag of $138,000, sold in December 2020, this card is still out of reach for the everyday hobbyist. The classic card has a neon square panel framing the iconic picture of Kobe going in for a lay-up.
The back lists facts (did you know he didn’t attend college? Or that his father Joe “Jellybean” Bryant played 16 years of professional basketball?). Bryant played shooting guard most of his life, and he became a superstar, forever remembered in NBA history. The Black Mamba was his nickname, and this card is the most sought-after collector’s item.
1996 Flair Kobe Bryant (Legacy Collection – Row 1)
Bryant’s undying connection to basketball will forever make his trading cards significantly more valuable than other players. This card is no different, graded PSA 10 Gem Mint and featuring an in-motion Bryant on the court, with his name and team scripted at the bottom.
The back includes an indicator alongside a black and white photo with a row and seat number at the top corners. The bottom includes statistics about this exceptional player who scored 2,883 career points. It sold for $96,000 in November 2021 and numbers 123/150.
Bryant was 18 years old when he began playing for the Lakers and stayed with the team for his entire career, becoming an icon in LA. He remains one of the greatest players of all time, and this card displays that as one of the best Bryant cards available. It’s rare with only 60 copies, and its limited edition supports Bryant’s greatness.
1996 Flair Kobe Bryant Showcase (Legacy Collection – Row 0)
Sold for $90,000 in February 2021, this card is rated PSA 9 and features a mosaic of Kobe with a clearer picture forefronting. His name and team are at the bottom, with a black frame around the entire card. The back is similar to the former option, with some minor changes that fans would be enthusiastic to obtain.
Even in his rookie year of professional basketball, Bryant started to be included in sets known as Legacy Collections. This card symbolizes his on-court achievements as well as his personal story, impressive and long-lasting, filled with investment potential.
1996 Skybox E-X2000 Credentials Kobe Bryant #30
The highest graded version of this card sold for over $600,000 in October of 2021. This unique card features an action-packed cover, silver-framed with gold-plated lettering of Bryant’s name and the team at the bottom. The back features the same, reversed picture and his name with specific stats about this iconic player.
The Lakers have a recognizable past filled with some of the greatest players ever, but Bryant stood out from the rest due to his elite scoring ability and bigger-than-life personality.
1997 E-X2001 Jambalaya Kobe Bryant
This card is truly one of a kind. It features Bryant having fun as he always did on the court. The front of the card includes his name, team, and position on the front along with his number. The back describes Bryant as ambitious and fast with crazy maneuvers and guaranteed points.
Several PSA 10 versions of this card have sold for over $60,000. It is extremely difficult to find in packs. The Jambalaya does a great job at reminiscing and celebrating Bryant’s memory while insinuating a kick through the card’s name. They were placed randomly in 720 cards (or 1/30 boxes). The condition is sensitive, and finding one of these makes you a lucky fan indeed.
1996 Bowman’s Best Kobe Bryant (Atomic Refractor) Rookie
Sold for a little over $31,000, this card has a Gem Mint rating of 10 and includes a picture of Bryant seemingly giving a nod to Michael Jordan with the tongue sticking out. This card has a bright, fun design with pixelated, neon squares of purple, blue, and yellow to represent the Lakers’ official colors and add pizzazz to this card. The back has another photo with stats and nominations.
This Kobe Bryant rookie card is heavily desired by fans and collectors. It is one of the more valuable Kobe Bryant basketball cards for Lakers enthusiasts and is slightly more affordable than other cards on the list.
Best Kobe Bryant Rookie Cards
A player's rookie cards are usually the most coveted. Here we will take a look at key Kobe Bryant rookie cards you can look for without breaking the bank.
1996 Ultra Kobe Bryant (Platinum Medallion)
A PSA 10 of this card is difficult to find and worth around $10,000. It features young Bryant heading towards a tomahawk with an exciting font at the bottom. These cards are very rare and come in another variation known as the Gold Medallion. The back dives into more personal history and amusing fun facts, such as that Bryant can speak Italian. The more you know about the off-court lore, the more you can appreciate the on-court heroics!
1996-97 Holoviews Kobe Bryant
This card has a super unique and eye-catching design. It is also far less expensive than the previous cards due to its lack of recognition. Depending on the condition, you can find one graded for anywhere from $200-$5000 The hologram at the bottom is striking and has a great concept, but it did not fare as well as it could have on the resale market.
Regardless, high-grade copies are difficult to find, so if you manage to snag one, it is fairly affordable and worth the price (IMO). The purple back gives it more of a royal tone, part of a Premium Collection.
1996 Flair Showcase Legacy Row 2
An extremely valuable card that sold for nearly $9,000, this treasure is another essential due to its row number, granted it’s not as high as the previous. Despite that, the image is exciting, and the card is a part of the Legacy Collection.
Best Value Kobe Bryant Basketball Cards
Knowing which Kobe Bryant card to buy can be overwhelming. There are so many to choose from and it can be daunting to choose one. Especially if you are paying a significant amount of money for the card. Let’s narrow this down and focus on a few more reasonably priced cards that are under $8,000.
So, if you’re not too crazy about the idea of spending tons on a collectible but are fiending to get your hands on one of the most valuable Kobe Bryant rookie cards, then keep reading. We’ll briefly list some of the card's specs that are available and affordable. However, these are still most likely worth plenty due to Bryant’s already legendary status in the NBA and the added tragedy of his untimely loss.
While highly graded copies of these cards can still cost several thousands of dollars, you can always look for an ungraded or raw copy. They still have unique designs and finding a signed card with Kobe's name is rare even if ungraded.
Even though these may not be as visually striking as those that go for over half a million, they satisfy the craving most collectors have and can be a good option for beginners. It depends on your budget and tastes, but these were the ones that are the most attention-grabbing.
2006 Topps Chrome Kobe Bryant
This is a classic card that features a photograph of Bryant shooting a jumper. It is framed with a metallic, chrome line and features the Laker's Colors. The card’s back sports his complete NBA record with a quote from Lebron James, LA Lakers forward and one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Despite its comparative affordable price, this card still has sentiment and stand-out features.
1996 Skybox E-X2000 Kobe Bryant (Star Date 2000)
Another card that can fetch around $2000 in highly graded condition, this card is super futuristic and fantastical. It includes a spacey image of Bryant on the front with the basketball and a galaxy background with his name and the year to signify a new millennium. The back holds a description and him floating amongst the stars. This card is one you don’t see too often and while still pricey, can be found for affordable prices when ungraded or below PSA 8.
1996 Scoreboard Autographed Kobe Bryant (Silver)
One of the more iconic and wanted cards, this collectible is a must for any Kobe collector. The front has Bryant with the American flag behind him, adorned with his signature, a basketball, and a hoop. It’s fun, casual, and the back contains a certificate of authentication. This card is a limited edition and is numbered to /325. As the most expensive of the reasonably priced cards, it is a top pick for collectors, largely due to its iconic picture and features.
More affordable variations of this card can be found but the highest graded copies can be worth 6 figures.
Conclusion
Even though Bryant’s cards haven’t reached the Stephen Curry level of expense, these cards display tribute to this basketball legend and continue to rise in value. It’s so unfortunate to have lost such a great player with his amazing talent and charisma. Owning a Kobe card can be a great way to remember his iconic career.
If your budget doesn’t quite fit any of the above options, don’t worry. There are plenty out there to choose from to proudly display your love for Kobe and his legacy.
