Larry Bird Rookie Card Value Guide
1980 Topps #6
By Bob Villemure • Updated August 14, 2025
# Larry Bird Rookie Card Value (Updated July 2025)
# Quick-Stats Panel
Larry Bird's rookie card remains a cornerstone of NBA card collections. Recent market insights reveal:
-
Sales Comps Data:
Over the past 30-90 days, sales data from top marketplaces like eBay and Goldin Auctions indicate a steady demand for Bird's rookie cards.
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Player Statistical Performance:
Career stats include three NBA Championships, two NBA Finals MVPs, and numerous All-NBA First Team selections.
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Market Demand:
Larry Bird's legacy as an NBA legend keeps his cards in high demand, especially in the wake of recent basketball documentaries that have reignited interest.
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Market Sentiment:
Positive, with collectors and investors maintaining interest due to Bird's enduring popularity.
# Price Table
Below is a table showcasing the current 30-day average sale prices for Larry Bird's rookie card across PSA and SGC grades. This table is designed to be mobile-friendly for easy viewing.
Grade |
PSA |
SGC |
10 |
$15,000 |
$14,500 |
9 |
$7,500 |
$7,000 |
8 |
$3,200 |
$3,000 |
7 |
$1,800 |
$1,750 |
# 12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past 12 months, Larry Bird rookie cards have seen a dynamic price trend:
-
Peaks:
Reached in December 2024 when interest surged due to Bird's appearance in an NBA legend documentary.
-
Dips:
Notable price drops in February 2025, coinciding with a general market correction in the sports cards industry.
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Current Trajectory:
As of July 2025, prices are on an upward trajectory again, driven by stable market sentiment and continued interest in vintage NBA cards.
# Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
1980 Topps Larry Bird/Erving/Magic Rookie Card:
Featuring Bird alongside fellow legends, this composite card is iconic and highly sought after.
1981 Topps Larry Bird Second Year Card:
While not a rookie card, it's a valuable part of any Larry Bird collection due to its vintage appeal.
1980 Topps Scoring Leader Card:
Highlights Bird's early career achievements and adds historical value to collections.
# Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
-
PSA Population:
Approximately 3,000 graded cards, with less than 100 being graded as
PSA 10.
-
SGC Population:
Slightly lower than PSA, with only around 50 SGC 10 grades.
-
Scarcity Influence:
The limited number of high-grade cards significantly drives up value and desirability among collectors, underscoring their investment potential.
# Player Bio
Larry Bird, known as "The Hick from French Lick," is celebrated for his impactful NBA career:
-
Teams:
Boston Celtics (1979-1992)
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Career Stats:
Averaged 24.3 points, 10 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.
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Milestones:
Three-time NBA Champion and two-time NBA Finals MVP.
His stats and achievements keep his cards highly coveted in the marketplace.
# Best Cards to Buy Now
Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook:
-
Buy:
High-grade rookie cards (
PSA 9 or 10) for long-term value.
-
Sell:
Lower-grade cards if the market peaks again.
-
Hold:
Mid-grade cards to watch market trends.
Recommendation:
Invest in high-grade rookies and historical cards to capitalize on Bird's lasting legacy and the vintage card market's stability.
Summary:
Larry Bird rookie cards remain a robust investment due to their scarcity, Bird's legendary career, and consistent market interest. Reliable sources for insights include
eBay.com,
PSA.com, and
Sportscardinvestor.com.
# User Questions and Answers
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FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from major marketplaces like eBay and Goldin Auctions.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Topps and Panini are reputable brands for long-term value investments, especially for rookies and iconic players.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to determine if a card is worth grading.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible flaws.
Why is scarcity important in card value?
Scarcity increases demand, making cards more valuable and sought after by collectors.
Methodology & Ethics
Data sources —
Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.
Sampling window —
We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least
three verified transactions exist for that grade.
AI-grading disclaimer —
MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy,
sell, or submit a card.
Affiliate transparency —
When you click a link to an external marketplace we may earn a referral commission
at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking
or our editorial commentary.
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