Michael Jordan
6x NBA Champion, 5x MVP, and Basketball Hall of Famer · Basketball - NBA
Chicago Bulls
Era
Modern Era - Post-retirement style (similar to Upper Deck authenticated habits)
Item Type
Trading Card
Condition
Excellent - The card edges appear sharp, though the signature placement overlaps a dark area of the image, reducing contrast.
Rarity
Common signer via Upper Deck, but highly sought after. Signed 'in-person' style cards are rarer than official UDA pack-pulled cards.
Overall Assessment
A visually appealing piece that requires a professional opinion from PSA/DNA or BAS before any significant transaction. It carries high risk due to the sheer volume of Jordan forgeries.
Authenticity Assessment
Uncertain - requires professional authentication. While it mimics stylized characteristics, the ink flow and pressure suggest a slower motion than Jordan's natural rapid stroke.
Signature Style
Stylized 'M' and 'J' with loops. Lacks the typical jersey number '#23' inscription often seen on modern signed cards.
Signature Characteristics
The 'M' has a sharp incline; the 'J' loops back with a horizontal finish. The stroke width is consistent throughout, which can sometimes indicate a lack of natural speed.
Ink & Medium
Blue permanent felt-tip marker (Sharpie style) on a glossy cardboard trading card surface.
Item Description
1993-94 Upper Deck Michael Jordan Basketball Card #23 (Checklist Back).
Estimated Value
$1,500 - $3,000 if authenticated; $50 - $100 if sold as-is without COA.
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches the 'Upper Deck' era template but appears slightly more compressed than his standard 'large' format signatures.
Authentication Tips
Look for the speed of the 'M' and the specific loop of the 'J'. Jordan signatures are among the most forged; check for hesitations or 'blobs' where the pen rested.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or Beckett (BAS) are the industry standards for Jordan authentication.
Red Flags
The signature appears slightly labored in the mid-section; Jordan's genuine signature is usually more fluid and 'breathier'.
Provenance Notes
Essential for Jordan items not bearing a UDA (Upper Deck Authenticated) hologram. Needs a story of where/when it was signed.
Historical Context
Signed during the peak of Jordan's dominance or shortly after his first retirement, on a card celebrating the Bulls' first three-peak era.
Market Trends
Jordan memorabilia is currently at an all-time high following 'The Last Dance' documentary and recent record-breaking jersey sales.
Investment Potential
High, provided it passes a professional authentication check. Authentic Jordan items are considered 'blue-chip' collectibles.
Similar Autographs
Scottie Pippen, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James.
Display & Preservation
Store in a UV-protected magnetic one-touch holder to prevent the blue ink from fading over time.
Interesting Facts
Michael Jordan has an exclusive signing contract with Upper Deck, making any non-UDA holographic item naturally suspicious to high-end collectors.