BasketballRookieKey Card
2003-04 Topps LeBron James Rookie Card #221
AI confidence: high
Rookie status
This is LeBron James' official Topps rookie card from his debut NBA season with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003-04. It is one of the most iconic and sought-after rookie cards in the modern hobby.
Why this card matters
This is one of the most significant basketball cards ever produced. LeBron James is widely considered one of the greatest players in NBA history, and his 2003-04 Topps base rookie is among the most collected and traded cards in the hobby. Even the base version commands significant premiums in high grades.
Parallels & Print Runs
Gold
Numbered to 99
Gold bordered parallel, highly desirable and scarce
Black
Numbered to 1 (1/1)
Extremely rare one-of-one parallel
Uncirculated
Varies
Factory set exclusive version, sometimes found in higher grades due to pack-fresh condition
Notable Variants
- ◆ Topps Collection (factory set version with slightly different finish)
- ◆ Uncirculated version from factory sets
- ◆ Short print variations exist in perceived centering and print quality but no officially documented SP
Population Context
This is one of the most heavily graded cards in PSA history. PSA has graded tens of thousands of copies. PSA 10 examples are relatively rare given the print quality of the era — centering and surface issues are common. PSA 9s are far more prevalent. BGS 9.5 Black Labels are extremely scarce. The card is notoriously difficult to grade above a 9 due to centering and print defects.
Collector Notes
Centering is the #1 issue with this card — left-to-right and top-to-bottom misalignment is extremely common. Surface scratches and print defects are also frequent. Collectors should carefully inspect corners and edges as well. When buying raw, look for cards with tight centering and clean surfaces. The card has a glossy front with a standard Topps design. Fakes and trimmed cards exist in the market — always buy graded from a reputable source or verify carefully when purchasing raw.
PSA Population Report
Population data not yet available for this card.
Price trend
Price Trend
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AI-generated information based on training data. Population data and values are estimates — verify with PSA, BGS, or recent eBay sold listings before making financial decisions.