Recently, an ultra-rare 1984 Type 1 Original Photo of Michael Jordan from his first NBA game just set a record for the most expensive Jordan photo ever sold. The PSA-certified Type 1 photo, brokered in a private sale by leading collectible marketplace Goldin, was bought for $175,000.
Michael Jordan’s First Game on the Chicago Bulls
Michael Jordan’s first NBA game is an iconic moment in the history of basketball. It took place on October 26, 1984, when the Chicago Bulls faced off against the Washington Bullets. Jordan, a rookie at the time, was already generating considerable buzz as the third overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft.
In this highly anticipated debut, Jordan showcased the incredible talent that would later earn him the title of “His Airness.” He finished the game with an impressive stat line, scoring 16 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. His performance was a glimpse of the greatness to come.
Michael Jordan Photograph Record-setting
The photograph features Jordan during his pro debut at Chicago Stadium on Oct. 26, 1984, where he posted 16 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists in a 109-93 win over the Washington Bullets. The image shows the future six-time NBA Champion driving to the hoop in iconic Jordan fashion with his tongue out and wearing his earliest Nike sneakers.
“Michael Jordan Type I photos are one of the hottest sectors on the auction block today,” said Khyber Oser, Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography at Goldin. “Only three Type I examples from MJ’s debut game have ever surfaced publicly—and this is the best one by far. I’m excited to see what such a landmark sale means for all Type 1 photo collectors, whether you collect Michael Jordan, Muhammad Ali or Babe Ruth.”
Henry Yee, the principal authenticator at PSA Photo Authentication Services, was not shocked by the record price. When compared to other hobby subcultures, “true original Type I photos are still extremely undervalued,” Yee noted. “This unique debut photograph of Jordan from the Chicago Sun-Times was never made available to the general audience. It was merely employed in the newsroom to convey a story for practical reasons. Contrast that with a six-figure Jordan debut ticket stub that each of the 13,000 spectators in the venue received. In the long run, I have every confidence that the customer purchased wisely from Ken Goldin and his business.
Trading cards, memorabilia, and collectibles have all grown to be a Goldin specialty. A popular spot to visit is the Goldin marketplace.
Goldin is a leading marketplace for trading cards, collectibles and memorabilia. Founder Ken Goldin has sold more than $1.5 billion in memorabilia from many of the biggest names in sports, history, and pop culture. The company routinely sets records for the most expensive trading cards and other memorabilia ever sold. Lifelong collectors and new hobbyists alike trust Goldin because the company professionally authenticates everything it sells. Goldin is the official auction partner of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association and the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum. Learn more at Goldin.com, and on Twitter and Instagram.
