How to Sell a 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan Card and Get the Best Price

If you want to sell your 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan card for the best price, start by confirming it is authentic and assessing its condition. Next, consider getting it professionally graded to increase buyer confidence and value. Finally, choose a secure selling platform, price your card based on recent market activity and its condition, and follow safe transaction practices to avoid scams and ensure a smooth sale.

How do I confirm my 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan card is authentic and in good condition?

Examine your card carefully for signs of authenticity. The 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan card features the Fleer logo on the front, a photo of Jordan in his Chicago Bulls uniform, and clear, sharp printing.

Look out for common counterfeit indicators like blurry images, incorrect fonts, off-center borders, or poor card stock quality.

Assess the card's physical condition by checking edges and corners for wear, such as creases, bends, or whitening, which significantly lower value. Inspect the surface for scratches or stains. The back should have consistent color and printing.

Compare your card to verified authentic examples available in collector forums or official Fleer references. If you notice anything unusual, the card might be counterfeit or altered.

Card condition is graded on a scale from Poor to Gem Mint. Try to estimate where your card fits on this scale to understand its value before selling.

What is professional card grading and why should I get my card graded?

Professional card grading means sending your card to a reputable company that evaluates its authenticity and condition, then assigns a grade, usually from 1 to 10. The leading companies are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS).

Grading includes checking centering, corners, edges, and surface condition. The card is then sealed in a tamper-evident holder showing the grade.

Having your card graded can raise buyer confidence and increase its market value. Graded cards often sell faster and for higher prices because buyers know exactly what they’re getting.

To get your card graded, register with the grading company and submit your card by mail or through authorized dealers. Keep in mind grading takes time and fees vary based on service speed and declared value.

Where can I sell my graded or ungraded Michael Jordan card securely?

You have several secure options:

• Online Marketplaces: eBay is the most popular choice, offering buyer and seller protections, a wide audience, and options for auction or fixed-price listings. Be prepared for listing and final value fees.
• Specialty Marketplaces: Sites like COMC or StockX focus on trading cards and often provide authentication and grading. They charge fees but attract serious collectors.
• Auction Houses: High-value cards can benefit from auction houses specializing in collectibles, such as Heritage Auctions, which reach wealthy buyers but charge higher commissions.
• Local Card Shops or Shows: Selling directly can save fees but limits your buyer pool and may not get the best price.

Choose platforms with seller protections, secure payment methods, and verified buyers. When selling ungraded cards, describe the condition clearly to avoid disputes.

How do I determine the right asking price for my card?

Research recent sales of 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan cards in similar condition on platforms like eBay and auction results. Focus on matches in grading and condition.

Prices vary greatly by condition. A Gem Mint graded card can sell for many times more than one with visible flaws or poor centering.

Consider current market trends: demand for Jordan cards fluctuates with interest in basketball memorabilia and Jordan’s legacy. News and seasonal factors can also affect prices.

Set your price slightly above recent sales to leave room for negotiation or price competitively for a quick sale. If unsure, get a professional appraisal or consult a reputable dealer.

What precautions should I take to avoid scams and ensure a smooth sale?

Check buyer credibility by reviewing their feedback on platforms like eBay. Avoid transactions outside secure marketplaces.

Use secure payment methods such as PayPal Goods and Services or credit card payments that provide buyer and seller protections. Avoid wire transfers or direct bank payments.

Ship your card with insurance and tracking, using a rigid card holder or case to prevent damage. Require signature confirmation on delivery.

Keep records of all communications and shipping receipts to help resolve disputes if they arise.

Never share personal information beyond what the platform requires, and be cautious of buyers requesting off-platform deals or unusual payment methods.

What should I do after the sale to ensure everything is finalized correctly?

Confirm the buyer’s payment before shipping.

Package the card securely in a hard plastic holder or top loader, wrap it with bubble wrap, and place it in a sturdy box or padded envelope.

Use a reliable shipping service with insurance and tracking, and require a signature on delivery.

Send the buyer the tracking number and expected delivery date.

Follow up after delivery to confirm the buyer received the card as described and is satisfied. This helps prevent negative feedback or disputes.

Keep all sale-related documentation, including payment confirmations and shipping receipts, until the transaction is fully complete.

Conclusion

Selling your 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan card successfully means verifying its authenticity and condition, getting it graded if possible, choosing the right selling platform, pricing it based on recent market data, and protecting yourself throughout the process. Following these steps carefully will help you get the best price and avoid common problems. After the sale, a smooth follow-up ensures both you and the buyer are satisfied with the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to get my 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan card graded before selling?

Getting your card graded is not required, but it usually increases buyer confidence and can significantly raise the card’s value and ease of sale.

How long does the grading process usually take?

Grading times vary by company and service level. It can take from several weeks to a few months during busy periods.

Can I sell my card without grading it?

Yes, but ungraded cards often attract fewer buyers and sell for less because buyers aren’t certain about the card’s condition and authenticity.

What should I do if I suspect my card is counterfeit?

Don’t sell it as authentic. Consult a professional grader or an experienced collector to verify authenticity before proceeding.