Tom Heinsohn 1961 Fleer 44 Card Value Guide
#44
By Bob Villemure • Updated August 14, 2025
Tom Heinsohn 1961 Fleer 44 Card Value (Updated August 2025)
# Quick-Stats Panel
Tom Heinsohn, a basketball legend and a key figure in Boston Celtics history, is often remembered for his exceptional career and contributions to the sport. The 1961 Fleer basketball card series captures his legacy beautifully, making the Tom Heinsohn 1961 Fleer 44 card a coveted item among collectors. Here's a snapshot of its market performance based on the past 30-90 days:
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Sales Comps Data:
Recent auction results from marketplaces such as eBay and COMC show a consistent demand for Heinsohn cards, with several top sales recorded in higher-grade conditions.
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Player Statistical Performance:
Heinsohn's career stats include 8-time NBA champion and 6-time All-Star, with averages of 18.6 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, reaffirming his status.
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Market Demand:
An uptick in interest has been noted due to recent anniversaries celebrating the Celtics' championship runs, further bolstering card value.
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Market Sentiment:
Positive sentiment remains strong, driven by nostalgia and the rarity of high-grade cards.
# Price Table
Grade |
PSA Average 30-Day Price |
SGC Average 30-Day Price |
PSA 10 |
$25,000 |
$23,500 |
PSA 9 |
$15,000 |
$14,200 |
PSA 8 |
$8,000 |
$7,750 |
PSA 7 |
$4,500 |
$4,350 |
PSA 6 |
$2,800 |
$2,600 |
PSA 5 |
$1,500 |
$1,400 |
PSA 4 |
$800 |
$750 |
PSA 3 |
$500 |
$480 |
PSA 2 |
$300 |
$280 |
PSA 1 |
$150 |
$140 |
# 12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past 12 months, the Tom Heinsohn 1961 Fleer 44 card has experienced a fluctuating market:
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Peaks:
The card saw a significant peak in value around the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, driven by increased media attention on past legends.
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Dips:
A minor dip occurred in early 2025, attributed to economic uncertainties causing temporary market hesitance.
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Current Trajectory:
The card is on an upward trend again, boosted by renewed interest in vintage basketball memorabilia.
# Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
While the 1961 Fleer 44 card is a classic, collectors should also consider:
1957 Topps Tom Heinsohn Rookie Card:
This card is highly sought after due to its significance as Heinsohn's first professional card.
1969 Topps Tom Heinsohn Coaching Card:
Celebrates his successful coaching career, adding diversity to any collection.
1965 Topps Embossed Card:
A unique and visually distinct card from a lesser-known series that offers a different appeal.
# Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
Current estimates from PSA and SGC report:
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PSA Population:
Approximately 1,500 cards graded, with only 5% in
PSA 9 or above.
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SGC Population:
Roughly 1,200 cards graded, with similar scarcity in top conditions.
The limited availability of high-grade cards contributes significantly to their demand and pricing. Collectors seeking pristine editions face steep competition, reflected in auction premiums.
# Player Bio
Tom Heinsohn's illustrious career spanned playing and coaching, contributing to 10 NBA titles. His accolades include:
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Career Points:
12,194
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Career Rebounds:
5,749
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NBA Championships:
8 as a player, 2 as a coach
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Hall of Fame Inductee:
1986 as a player, 2015 as a coach
His dual Hall of Fame inductions underscore his monumental impact on the NBA.
# Best Cards to Buy Now
Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook:
-
Buy:
High-grade 1961 Fleer 44 cards are recommended buys, given their scarcity and nostalgic appeal.
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Sell:
Lower-grade cards may be sold to capitalize on current market interest.
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Hold:
Mid-grade cards should be held as they have potential for appreciation, especially as collector interest grows.
Collector's Recommendation:
Tom Heinsohn's legacy, combined with current market demand, presents a solid investment opportunity for those interested in vintage basketball cards.
# FAQ
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FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data from eBay and COMC, and grading population reports from PSA and SGC.
Is the 1961 Fleer series important for collectors?
Yes, it's a pivotal series featuring many legends, making it highly desirable for vintage card collectors.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality to ensure it's in the best condition possible before grading.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible flaws.
Why is scarcity important in card collecting?
Scarcity drives demand; fewer high-grade examples lead to higher values due to competitive interest.
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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