When you’re the best basketball player of this generation, your cards will always command a certain kind of value in the market. In this case, that player is LeBron James. His long career in the NBA, which is still going strong at year 18, contains all the necessary narratives to propel him into the Greatest Of All Time debate (If he isn't there yet already). Plus, the fact that the Los Angeles Lakers are the hands-down favorite to win the ring this season could result in ever more accolades for James’ ever-growing legend.
That’s why most, if not all, card collectors make it a point to nab any of The King’s cards whenever they get the chance. Even the most basic Lebron James base cards still hold up a certain kind of value among people in the community. But, as always, it’s best to go for cards that will retain their value or have the chance to greatly increase down the road.
Sure, a lot of people would target premium Lebron James cards, like his autographs or patches since their value would be effectively locked in because of how rare they are. In this case, we take a look at some of James’ cards that are readily available to fans and possess the momentum to go up as the years go by.
2019-20 LeBron James Donruss Net Marvels
First on our list is the 2019-20 Donruss Net Marvels insert. When this card first came out, a lot of collectors snagged those hobby packs and boxes up to increase their chance of getting one. A lot of fans fell in love with its comic-inspired design, making it an instant hit in the card community.
Since this is the first edition of this insert, it's basically a sure thing that the card will sky-rocket in due time. The fact that it's LeBron James makes it even more certain. His raw Net Marvels card already commands a high price tag, while graded versions are more expensive. Thanks to the card’s incredible design and James’ legendary status, you can be sure it'll be worth the investment.
2016-17 Optic Holo
If you’re after a classic Lebron James card, few options would be better than his 2016-17 Optic Holo. This first-edition card features a clean and vintage-inspired design that beautifully showcases The King. The cherry on top is the inclusion of Kobe Bryant in the picture, a trait that increases the card’s value more, especially to Lakers collectors. Plus, the holo variant, which is harder to pull than its base counterpart, makes it more sought-after by card collectors.
Thanks to all of these qualities, you can expect a keeper if you have this card in your collection. As of the moment, a raw copy sold on eBay for $1,200 last October 16, 2020. while the graded cards command a higher price tag. Better believe that this card won’t go back to its original value, so snag it while you can.
2008-09 Topps Chrome XFractor
One of LeBron James’ most iconic moments is when he performs his pre-game ritual of tossing chalk into the air before the crowd. This card immortalizes that scene and encases it within a chrome-finished design. Coupled with a classic look and a print run limited to 288 copies, the 2008 Topps Chrome XFractor wonderfully showcases a side of James that’s long resonated with even his most casual fans.
All of these traits come together to create a card that will most certainly remain valuable. The time will come when James will retire, which means the end for his pre-game routine. When that time inevitably comes, you'll be happy to have a tiny piece of his amazing career right in your collection.
2012-2013 Panini Prizm
When it comes to basketball cards, Prizm remains king over every other brand. Released in 2012, the first-year edition of these cards are always sought after by collectors. On top of that mountain is The King’s base Prizm. The card’s clean chrome look showcases James in his stint with the Miami Heat.
Coincidentally, the season in which this card was released marks one of the best performances of James and the year in which he won his second ring over the San Antonio Spurs. If you want a classic card that exhibits key moments in both The King’s career and within the basketball card industry itself, you should go chase for James’ 2012-13 Prizm.
2003-04 Topps Chrome Rookie Card
At the top of our list is a card that would be the crown jewel to nearly any collection – LeBron James’ Topps Chrome rookie card. This one needs no explanation as to why it is such a highly-desirable item for so many collectors. What you should know, though, is that a BGS Gem Mint 10 Graded copy recently sold for $100,101. Although that price may seem too much, it will only get higher once LeBron James caps off his illustrious career by retiring. Even if that happens, this card has nowhere to go but up.
These five cards are just some of James’ cards that will preserve their value. There are a lot of offerings out there that can be considered as hidden treasures if you just know where to look. As always, it pays to do your research so you can maximize your investment in The King’s cards.
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