The Set: These cards were a preview of Action Packed’s initial design. It’s on the back where we see that these were clearly promotional. In addition to the typical small photograph, short bio, and stats, the backs are distinguished by the outline of the word “Sample” and a very light outline of “Not For Sale” below that. There is a crease where the card was folded. There is also a blank white box with a star to the right of it…kind of seems extraneous… Distinguishing characteristics of the front are Action Packed’s typical rounded corners and gold-foil stamped border. Ironically, it’s this border that keeps things interesting and creates variations in the set. A “white border” Patrick Ewing exists. Less common is the fact that three other cards have white border and even unfolded varieties. BGS and PSA have graded Michael Jordan cards labeled as “Silver Border.” The set was often traditionally considered to be made up of four components, excluding variations: Patrick Ewing, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Sugar Ray Leonard. A more complete list includes three hockey players (Lemieux, Gretzky and Yzerman). There’s also rumors of uncut sheets from this set. The basketball players are the first basketball cards ever with an embossed component (I think?)! In short, keep your eyes open and expect the unexpected in this set! Ultimately, Action Packed didn’t get rights from the NBA to produce this particular set.
The Card: First, the photo of Michael Jordan on this card is amazing! A great angle, under the hoop, as Jordan is in the middle of a crossover lay-up. On the reverse, I’m always struck by the first statement, “This 3 time NBA scoring champ has the highest scoring avg. in NBA history (32.6 PPG).” Remember, it wasn’t even the 90’s yet and we already have a statement like this!
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