Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, two of the most iconic figures in basketball history, have once again made headlines by setting a new record in the sports memorabilia world. A unique trading card featuring both legends was sold for an astonishing $12.9 million, marking it as the most expensive sports card ever sold.
The sale occurred on August 23, 2025, through Heritage Auctions, and the card in question is from the Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autographs series, produced in the 2007-08 season. This one-of-a-kind card, numbered 1 of 1, features autographs from both Bryant and Jordan, making it a highly coveted piece for collectors. The identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, but this transaction has surpassed the previous record set by a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, which sold for $12.6 million in late August 2022. The highest-selling sports item to date is a Babe Ruth jersey from the 1932 World Series, fetching $24.12 million last year.
The significance of this sale goes beyond its staggering price tag. It symbolizes the enduring legacy and impact of both players on the NBA and the world of sports. Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in January 2020, left behind a remarkable career filled with achievements: five NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, one regular-season MVP award in 2008, and 18 All-Star appearances. Michael Jordan, often regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, boasts six championships, six Finals MVP awards, and five regular-season MVP awards.
The card itself is a testament to the rich history of the NBA. It features the league’s logo in patriotic colors, derived from a Kobe jersey, alongside a gold logo representing Jordan’s glorious 1996-97 season, during which he secured his penultimate NBA Championship. The signatures of both players are elegantly inscribed in blue marker, adding to the card’s allure.
This particular card was previously owned by collector Gerald Fortier, who acquired it for $25,000. It changed hands after two years when Fortier received an enticing offer of $170,000. For the next decade, it remained with the same owner before its record-breaking sale.
The timing of the sale is particularly poignant, as it coincided with what would have been Kobe Bryant’s 47th birthday. His legacy continues to inspire countless fans and athletes alike, and this record-breaking transaction serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on the sport.
As the NBA continues to evolve, the memories of legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan remain etched in the hearts of fans. Their influence is felt not only through their on-court achievements but also through the admiration and respect they command from current players and fans. This recent sale is a testament to their enduring legacy, proving that even in the world of collectibles, the spirit of these basketball icons lives on.