The item in question is a collectible trading card featuring the likeness of David Robinson, produced under the “NBA Hoops” brand. These cards are typically made of cardstock, displaying a photograph or artistic rendering of the athlete, along with statistics, team logos, and potentially autographs or game-worn memorabilia. They represent a tangible piece of sports memorabilia, linking the collector to a specific player and era of basketball.
Its significance lies in its potential value as a collectible. The desirability, and therefore market price, is affected by factors such as the card’s rarity, condition, print run, and the player’s accomplishments and popularity. Certain cards can be highly sought-after by enthusiasts, representing a form of investment or simply a nostalgic connection to the sport’s history and a prominent player’s career. It captures a moment in time and a specific point in an athlete’s legacy.
The following will delve into specific aspects of collecting these basketball cards, including factors that influence their worth, the history of the “NBA Hoops” brand, and notable cards featuring the aforementioned athlete. Further discussion will also include condition grading, storage, and resources available for collectors interested in buying, selling, or trading.
1. Rarity
Rarity is a primary determinant of value for any given collectible, and “NBA Hoops David Robinson card” is no exception. The scarcity of a particular card directly influences its desirability and, consequently, its market price. Several factors contribute to the overall rarity of a specific card.
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Print Run
The number of copies initially produced dictates the baseline rarity. Cards from limited print runs are inherently rarer. “NBA Hoops” sets sometimes feature cards with intentionally restricted production numbers, often denoted as “limited edition” or similar markings. If a David Robinson card from an NBA Hoops set had a very low print run, its price would typically be higher than a more common card from the same set.
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Insert Sets and Parallels
Within a set, insert cards (cards not part of the base set) and parallel cards (variations of base cards with different colors, finishes, or added features) are frequently produced in smaller quantities. Chase cards with different colors and textures. A gold foil parallel of a David Robinson base card would be scarcer, and therefore more valuable, than the standard base card.
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Errors and Variations
Unintentional errors during the printing process or intentional variations introduced by the manufacturer can significantly increase a card’s rarity. These might include misprints, incorrect statistics, or alternate imagery. A printing error or a limited color variation on a David Robinson card within a particular “NBA Hoops” release would make it more sought-after.
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Autographed or Memorabilia Cards
Cards featuring authentic autographs or pieces of game-worn memorabilia are often inserted into packs at extremely low rates. Given the direct connection to the player or a specific event, these cards command premium prices. “NBA Hoops” autograph or game-used memorabilia featuring the player would also represent a lower pop count compared to the regular base card.
The interplay of these rarity factors ultimately defines the market for “NBA Hoops David Robinson card” collectibles. Knowledge of these elements is essential for accurate valuation and informed purchasing decisions for collectors and investors alike.
2. Condition
Card condition is a paramount factor in determining the value of any collectible, particularly “nba hoops david robinson card”. The physical state directly impacts its desirability and, subsequently, its market price. A card in pristine condition commands a significantly higher premium than one exhibiting wear and tear.
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Centering
Centering refers to the alignment of the image on the card stock. A card with a well-centered image, where the borders are equal on all sides, is considered more desirable. Misalignment detracts from the aesthetic appeal and lowers the grade. An “nba hoops david robinson card” with poor centering will be valued less than one with near-perfect centering.
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Corners
The corners are susceptible to damage, such as rounding, fraying, or chipping. Sharp, well-defined corners are highly valued. Even minor imperfections to the corners can significantly impact the overall grade. An “nba hoops david robinson card” with creased or rounded corners experiences a decrease in market value.
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Edges
The edges of the card should be clean and free from nicks, wear, or color fading. White edges are particularly prone to showing wear. Damage to the edges is a common indicator of handling and diminishes the card’s condition. Edge wear on an “nba hoops david robinson card” reduces its appeal to collectors.
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Surface
The card’s surface should be free from scratches, creases, blemishes, or printing defects. Surface imperfections are often difficult to detect but significantly impact the grade. Even minor scratches or print lines visible under magnification will devalue the card. Damage like scratches, dents, or creases can drop the cards value. It is a critical component during review.
The assessment of these condition facets is crucial for collectors and investors involved with “nba hoops david robinson card”. Grading services use standardized scales to evaluate card condition, providing a professional assessment and increasing transparency in the market. Understanding these criteria is fundamental to making informed purchasing and selling decisions.
3. Year of Issue
The year of issue is a critical attribute of any “nba hoops david robinson card,” significantly influencing its value and collectibility. The year directly corresponds to a specific point in the athlete’s career, the prevailing trends in card design and production, and the overall market conditions during that period. Early cards from Robinson’s rookie season, for example, often hold greater historical significance and command higher prices due to their association with his initial entry into professional basketball. Conversely, cards from later years, particularly those coinciding with periods of lower statistical performance or team success, may be less sought after.
The “NBA Hoops” brand itself evolved over time, with changes in design, card stock, and the inclusion of various insert sets and parallel variations. Therefore, a 1990 “NBA Hoops” card featuring David Robinson will differ markedly from a 1997 card in terms of visual aesthetics and potentially, its scarcity. Furthermore, the year of issue aligns with broader trends in the sports card collecting market. For instance, the boom of the early 1990s resulted in overproduction, impacting the value of many cards from that era. Understanding the historical context surrounding the year of issue is therefore essential for assessing the long-term collectibility of the card.
In summary, the year of issue provides crucial context for understanding the significance and value of an “nba hoops david robinson card.” It connects the card to a specific period in the player’s career, the evolution of the “NBA Hoops” brand, and the overall trends in the sports card market. This understanding enables collectors and investors to make more informed decisions and appreciate the historical importance of each card within their collection.
4. Player Performance
The on-court achievements of David Robinson directly impact the value and collectibility of associated memorabilia, including “nba hoops david robinson card.” Superior statistical performance, championship wins, and significant accolades invariably enhance the desirability of these cards. High point averages, defensive prowess, and leadership roles all contribute to a player’s legacy and, consequently, the perceived worth of their trading cards. Examples include cards released immediately following milestone achievements, such as MVP awards or NBA Finals victories, which experience an immediate surge in market demand. The consistent dominance throughout his career has cemented his place in basketball history and thus drives demand for his memorabilia.
Specifically, his ten All-Star selections, the 1995 MVP award, and two NBA championships correlate positively with the value of his cards from those respective seasons. Collectors seek out cards from seasons during which Robinson demonstrated exceptional ability, viewing them as tangible representations of his accomplishments. Cards featuring Robinson during his peak years with the San Antonio Spurs, or showcasing highlights like scoring 71 points in a single game, are particularly sought-after. The “NBA Hoops” brand produced numerous cards highlighting these achievements, serving as visual reminders of his skill and dedication.
In essence, player performance serves as a fundamental factor in determining the market for “nba hoops david robinson card.” While rarity, condition, and year of issue are significant, the athlete’s accomplishments and reputation are ultimately the primary drivers of sustained demand. Understanding this connection allows collectors to make informed decisions and appreciate the lasting impact of a player’s career on the collectibility of their memorabilia. Challenges remain in predicting future demand based on past performance; however, a comprehensive understanding of player statistics and achievements provides a solid foundation for assessing the long-term value of these collectible cards.
5. Set Popularity
The overall popularity of a specific “NBA Hoops” set significantly influences the value and desirability of individual cards within that set, including any “nba hoops david robinson card.” This popularity stems from a confluence of factors that contribute to a set’s appeal and lasting legacy.
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Design Aesthetics and Innovation
Visually appealing designs and innovative features, such as unique card textures or die-cut formats, drive set popularity. Sets with distinctive design elements tend to be more sought-after by collectors. An “NBA Hoops” set known for its groundbreaking holographic effects or visually striking artwork would generally increase the value of the David Robinson card contained within.
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Key Rookies and Star Power
The presence of prominent rookies and established star players within a set significantly boosts its appeal. Sets featuring highly anticipated rookie cards or strong representations of league superstars attract a wider collector base. An “NBA Hoops” set featuring the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, in addition to a David Robinson card, would garner greater attention and potentially higher values for all cards within the set.
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Print Run and Scarcity
The initial print run of a set affects its long-term availability and collectibility. Sets with intentionally limited print runs or those that become scarce over time due to damage or loss tend to command higher prices. While the rarity of a specific David Robinson card is important, if the entire “NBA Hoops” set is considered scarce, the card’s value benefits from the overall demand.
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Nostalgia and Historical Significance
Sets that evoke nostalgic memories or capture significant moments in basketball history often maintain enduring popularity. Sets released during iconic seasons or featuring memorable designs tend to resonate with collectors. An “NBA Hoops” set released during a championship-winning season for David Robinson’s team would likely hold greater nostalgic appeal, further enhancing the value of the card.
The interplay of these elements ultimately determines the overall popularity of an “NBA Hoops” set and, by extension, the value of individual cards within it. Understanding these factors is essential for collectors seeking to acquire or evaluate “nba hoops david robinson card” and appreciate the broader context of their collection.
6. Authentication
The authentication of a “nba hoops david robinson card” is a critical step in verifying its legitimacy and ensuring its value. Counterfeit cards exist in the market, making authentication a necessary process to distinguish genuine articles from forgeries. This process is particularly important for cards purported to be rare variations, autographed editions, or containing game-used memorabilia. Authentication typically involves expert examination of the card’s printing quality, card stock, and design elements to confirm that they align with known characteristics of authentic “NBA Hoops” cards from the stated year of release. Third-party grading services like PSA or Beckett offer authentication services, providing a professional assessment that lends credibility to the card’s provenance.
The absence of authentication can significantly depreciate the value of an “nba hoops david robinson card,” even if it appears genuine to the untrained eye. For example, a card featuring a purported autograph of David Robinson requires expert verification to ensure the signature’s authenticity. Without such verification, collectors are hesitant to pay a premium for the card, as the risk of acquiring a forgery is too high. Similarly, cards claimed to contain pieces of game-worn jerseys or equipment must be rigorously authenticated to confirm that the materials are genuine and were actually used by the player. Reputable grading companies examine the stitching, material type, and provenance of the memorabilia to ensure its legitimacy.
In conclusion, authentication is indispensable for establishing the validity and value of an “nba hoops david robinson card.” It protects collectors from fraud, ensures the integrity of the sports memorabilia market, and provides confidence in the authenticity of a card’s features, whether it be the printing quality, an autograph, or embedded memorabilia. While authentication services entail costs, the benefits in terms of increased value and assurance far outweigh the expense, making it a crucial consideration for any serious collector of sports trading cards. Failing to authenticate a card can potentially result in a considerable financial loss, underscoring the importance of this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding “NBA Hoops David Robinson card”, offering clarity on various aspects related to their value, collectibility, and authenticity.
Question 1: What factors primarily determine the value of an “NBA Hoops David Robinson card?”
Key determinants include the card’s condition, rarity (print run, insert status), year of issue, the player’s performance during that season, and the overall popularity of the specific “NBA Hoops” set. Third-party grading by reputable companies also significantly influences value.
Question 2: How can one ascertain the authenticity of an “NBA Hoops David Robinson card,” particularly those featuring autographs or memorabilia?
Authentication is crucial. Submit the card to a reputable third-party grading service, such as PSA or Beckett, for expert examination. These services verify the card’s printing, design elements, autograph, and memorabilia against known authentic examples.
Question 3: What constitutes “good condition” for an “NBA Hoops David Robinson card,” and how does condition affect its value?
Good condition implies sharp corners, clean edges, a surface free from scratches or creases, and proper centering of the image. Even minor imperfections can significantly decrease value. Cards graded as “mint” or “near mint” command premium prices.
Question 4: Are “NBA Hoops David Robinson cards” from his rookie year significantly more valuable than those from later seasons?
Generally, yes. Cards from Robinson’s rookie season hold greater historical significance and often command higher prices due to their association with his initial entry into professional basketball. However, exceptional performance or special editions from later years can also be highly valuable.
Question 5: How does the popularity of the “NBA Hoops” set influence the value of an individual “NBA Hoops David Robinson card?”
A card from a highly popular “NBA Hoops” set tends to be worth more than one from a less popular set. Factors influencing set popularity include design aesthetics, presence of key rookies, print run limitations, and nostalgic appeal.
Question 6: Where are reliable resources to determine the fair market value of “NBA Hoops David Robinson card?”
Resources include online auction sites (eBay), sports card marketplaces, price guides published by Beckett and similar companies, and recent sales data from reputable auction houses. Consulting with experienced sports card collectors or appraisers is also advisable.
Understanding these factors provides a foundation for making informed decisions regarding the collection, purchase, or sale of these trading cards.
The following section will offer advice on maintaining the condition of such cards.
Preserving “NBA Hoops David Robinson Card” Condition
Maintaining the condition of trading cards featuring David Robinson from the “NBA Hoops” series requires diligent care and appropriate storage techniques. These precautions are essential for preserving the value and integrity of these collectibles.
Tip 1: Use Individual Card Sleeves: Each “nba hoops david robinson card” must be protected within a polypropylene or polyethylene sleeve. These sleeves provide a barrier against surface scratches, fingerprints, and minor abrasions that can degrade the card’s condition over time.
Tip 2: Employ Rigid Toploaders or Card Savers: Following sleeving, each card should be placed within a rigid toploader or semi-rigid card saver. These holders provide additional structural support, preventing bending or warping, particularly during handling and storage. Avoid PVC-based holders, as they can damage cards over extended periods.
Tip 3: Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can negatively impact card condition. Store “nba hoops david robinson card” in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Ideal conditions involve consistent temperature and humidity levels to prevent warping, fading, or discoloration.
Tip 4: Avoid Direct Handling: Minimize direct contact with the card’s surface. Oils and contaminants from hands can transfer to the card, leading to discoloration or damage. When handling “nba hoops david robinson card,” use clean, lint-free gloves or handle the cards by their edges.
Tip 5: Utilize Archival-Quality Storage Boxes: Store sleeved and toploaded cards within archival-quality storage boxes designed specifically for trading cards. These boxes provide additional protection from dust, light, and physical damage. Ensure the boxes are acid-free to prevent chemical reactions that can harm the cards.
Tip 6: Avoid Stacking Cards Directly: Never stack “nba hoops david robinson card” directly on top of one another without individual protection. The pressure and friction can cause surface damage and edge wear. Ensure each card is individually sleeved and secured in a toploader before placing it in a storage box.
Tip 7:Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Periodically inspect stored “nba hoops david robinson card” for signs of deterioration, such as warping, discoloration, or pest damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further degradation. Document condition and any changes observed over time.
Consistent adherence to these preservation techniques will mitigate the risk of damage and ensure the longevity of “nba hoops david robinson card,” preserving their value and collectibility for future generations.
The subsequent section offers a comprehensive conclusion.
Conclusion
This exploration of “nba hoops david robinson card” has illuminated the various facets contributing to its collectibility and valuation. Factors such as condition, rarity, year of issue, player performance, set popularity, and authentication each play a crucial role in determining a card’s worth and desirability within the sports memorabilia market. Understanding these elements empowers collectors and investors to make informed decisions when acquiring, selling, or trading these items. Diligent preservation techniques further ensure the longevity and value of these collectibles.
The pursuit of “nba hoops david robinson card” reflects a deeper engagement with sports history and the legacies of iconic athletes. Maintaining awareness of market trends, authentication standards, and evolving collector preferences is essential for continued success in this dynamic field. The tangible connection to the past embodied by these cards serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of sports memorabilia, warranting careful stewardship and appreciation for generations to come.
