In the exhilarating and unpredictable world of sports memorabilia, few pieces encapsulate the allure of basketball as much as a Michael Jordan card. While the 1986 Fleer rookie card reigns undisputedly as the crown jewel of Jordan collectibles, a quieter, less flashy contender is stealthily making its way through the ranks—the 1989 Fleer #21. This often-overlooked card is rapidly transforming from the rookie card’s overshadowed sibling to an intriguing piece of its own, all without the eyes-popping, bank-breaking hype associated with its more illustrious predecessor.
Collectors with a discerning eye and a budget that’s more “reasonable Sunday shopping” than “Ferrari superstore” have increasingly been drawn to the 1989 Fleer #21. More than just a cardboard relic, this card represents an opportunity—a tangible connection to the “His Airness” era of Chicago Bulls dominance, a nostalgia trip to the heyday of late ’80s basketball, and an investment that whispers rather than screams its potential.
Back in 2021, a PSA 10 (Professional Sports Authenticator, for those not fluent in collecting lingo) of the 1989 Fleer Jordan card could be scooped up for a cool $1,001. Fast forward to June 2025, and that same gem mint masterpiece is sporting a tempting $1,200 price tag—a robust 20% increase that, while not setting off fireworks, represents the kind of consistent uptick that warms the hearts of savvy investors. In the high-stakes game of memorabilia, sometimes slow and steady (much like a reliable jump shot) really clinches the win.
But what is it about this Middle Child of Jordan cards that has sparked a new level of collector affection? Perhaps it’s the narrows of around 1,240 PSA 10s in existence, compared to an ocean of over 11,000 PSA 9s, creating a pinch of scarcity. This card isn’t for those seeking exclusivity through high rarity but rather those seeking quality amidst numbers. Or maybe it’s the sentimentality, as the 1989 Fleer anchors hobbyists to late ’80s hoop dreams without requiring financial acrobatics.
Raw copies of this card have seen an even more impressive leap. In 2022, it was a wallet-friendly deal at six bucks. Fast forward to today, and you’ll need to part with a crisp twenty to take one home. It’s a triumphant, subtle rise against the background of loud rookies and gold-bordered glam. While this one might lack the fireworks of a rookie-year blockbuster, it possesses a charm all its own, like spotting a classic movie in a forgotten cinema.
The sudden attention can be attributed to various factors converging into a perfect storm. The rising fees for grading cards have nudged collectors towards acquiring already encapsulated gems. Add in the wave of ’80s nostalgia—when jerseys flew higher and shorts were notably shorter—and the journey of this card as a savvy collector’s darling starts to appear less enigmatic.
However, the 1989 Fleer card doesn’t rely on flashy aesthetics or marketing to capture the hearts of fans and collectors. There’s no border of gold or hologram, and it doesn’t depict Jordan towering over Ewing in a canonical slam. Yet, it quietly pays homage to a time when Jordan redefined greatness, silhouette planted firmly amidst the tides of Bulls mania.
For those seeking a card infused with value and long-term promise—a break from the norm of high-dollar rookies and shimmering rare inserts—the 1989 Fleer card more than merits a place of consideration. In a world where a rookie stamp often overshadows raw talent, this card is a testament to Michael Jordan’s enduring presence on, and now off, the court. Even without the illustrious rookie badge, Jordan’s command over the basketball world is undeniable, and it turns out his 1989 Fleer doesn’t need the glamour to deliver some commendable returns.
