The legendary Michael Jordan, a name synonymous with basketball greatness, is not only a towering figure in the sport’s history but also a collectible superstar. When one muses over Jordan’s legacy in trading cards, the 1986 Fleer rookie card is often regarded as the Holy Grail among enthusiasts. Its historical significance and scarcity have placed it on a pedestal, commanding astronomical prices that make wallets tremble. However, there’s a lesser-known gem quietly making waves in the collector’s world: the 1989 Fleer #21.
For those who’d rather not break the bank but still yearn for a slice of Jordan memorabilia, the 1989 Fleer offers an intriguing proposition. Contrary to the frenetic craze around its rookie counterpart, this particular card does not come bedecked with a flamboyant aura. Instead, it opts for the quiet dignity that comes with being a card from Jordan’s early Bulls days and an era in which he was busy turning a struggling franchise into a base for multiple championships.
Fast forward from its underappreciated beginnings, this card is proving to be a steady performer in the world of collectibles. Back in the comparatively arcane days of 2021, a certified gem mint (PSA 10) of the 1989 Fleer Jordan would set you back a humble $1,001—a sum sure to stir excitement for astute investors. Roll onward to June 2025, and the blossoming 20% value increase now places this gem beauty at a tidy $1,200. This ascent in value might not set off fireworks, but it’s a testament to the card’s resilience amidst an ever-evolving collector market.
Under the meticulous gaze of PSA, there are approximately 1,240 PSA 10s, alongside a staggering 11,000-plus PSA 9s populating the marketplace. Such figures might appear as inventory overload, yet the demand for these cards mirrors the sort of appeal usually overshadowed by their flashier brothers-in-arms. Collectors are gradually realizing that not every piece of the priceless Jordan pie needs to include an account-draining comma.
Driving the spike in raw card value is what makes this tale even more enchanting. In 2022, the ungraded versions of this card were fetching a modest $6. In a delightful twist, today’s market sees a price of $20 or more for these pieces—effectively tripling in worth. These gains come not from a rare card with bells and whistles but rather from a steadfast base-era piece of Jordan’s storied career.
One might wonder, what spurred this newfound affection for a card once passed over like a side dish at Thanksgiving dinner? A key factor could be the ballooning grading fees, steering collectors toward the security of already graded options. Moreover, there’s a pronounced nostalgia for late ’80s basketball—a time when short shorts and fast breaks ruled, and a young Jordan was skywalking in his pre-championship glory. It seems some collectors are motivated by the desire to hold a tangible piece of history without venturing into prohibitively expensive territory.
Despite lacking the ostentatious flair of beating down Ewing or the shimmer of a gold foil, the 1989 Fleer captures MJ in his athletic prime. This card is printed in the crucible of the Bulls’ transformative years, etched in the memories of those who saw the ascent of a legend unfolding before their eyes. Against a backdrop of tomfoolery with high-profile cards, this Fleer underdog has become the choice for the contemplative collector.
This quiet card is more than just an investment; it’s a hallmark of a bygone basketball era infused with reverence. For those who desire not merely trophies but heartfelt stories told through cardboard, the Jordan Fleer holds the promise of enduring value and timeless charm. Unlike his rookie year, Jordan’s 1989 version doesn’t crave the spotlight. Yet to those attuned to its potential, it’s a delightful reminder that sometimes, discreet players hold the keys to rewarding surprises.
Ultimately, for the investor wary of jumping on the hype train or for anyone yearning for a break from the usual suspects, this card offers a refreshing palate cleanser. Just as on the court where Jordan didn’t need flashy rookie credentials to dominate, the 1989 Fleer doesn’t require the brilliance of the spotlight to deliver steady returns. Collectors, it seems, have found a new MVP in this unassuming piece of history.
