1984 Star Michael Jordan #101 Rookie Card
(PSA VG-EX 4)
The 1984 Star Michael Jordan #101 Card: A Rare Gem in Basketball Memorabilia
An Era of Exclusive Production
In the early 1980s, the landscape of basketball memorabilia underwent a significant transformation. With Topps ending their deal with the NBA in 1982, the Star Company emerged as the sole card manufacturer with an NBA license. This exclusive arrangement lasted until Fleer entered the scene for the 1986-87 season. During this period, the Star Company faced numerous challenges, including printing issues such as miscutting and poor ink saturation. These difficulties resulted in production runs of fewer than 5,000 units, making quality examples of any Star card a rare find.
The Coveted Michael Jordan #101 Card
Among the Star Company’s offerings, the 1984 Star Michael Jordan #101 card stands out as the most desirable of the Jordan Star cards. This card captures the essence of a young Michael Jordan, who would soon become a global icon and one of the greatest basketball players of all time. The card has been graded and encapsulated by PSA with a grade of VG-EX 4, further enhancing its allure and value in the world of sports memorabilia auctions.
Challenges and Rarity
The Star Company’s production was plagued by spotty distribution methods, with only a handful of retailers selling these cards, and most transactions occurring through mail orders. This limited availability has contributed to the card’s rarity and desirability among collectors. The 1984 Star Michael Jordan #101 card is not just a piece of cardboard; it is a symbol of a bygone era in basketball card production, marked by exclusivity and scarcity.
- Limited Production: Less than 5,000 units produced due to printing challenges.
- Spotty Distribution: Cards were primarily sold by mail, with few retailers involved.
- Desirable Grade: Graded VG-EX 4 by PSA, adding to its collectible value.
A Piece of Basketball History
For collectors and enthusiasts, the 1984 Star Michael Jordan #101 card represents more than just a collectible; it is a piece of basketball history. It captures the early days of Michael Jordan’s illustrious career and the unique challenges faced by the Star Company in producing and distributing NBA cards. As such, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the rich tapestry of basketball’s past.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of consigning sports memorabilia, this card is a testament to the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan and the Star Company’s brief but impactful presence in the basketball card industry. Explore more about this and other exceptional items in our basketball collections at Grey Flannel Auctions.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.