Top Five Most Valuable David Robinson Rookie Cards

David Robinson rookie cards are a rising power play for collectors. Learn how coveted cards, like the 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations, could be a boon to your bank account by checking out our top five most valuable David Robinson rookie card picks.

Updated Sep 13, 2024

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Sports Cards

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An NBA icon who gave his all on the court, David Robinson's legend lives on—and so does the value of his rookie card collection. As fans and collectors clamor to have a piece of basketball history, the prices for Robinson's most sought-after cards are climbing higher than his signature slam dunks.

Card prices for the 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations David Robinson RC #1 vary with values from as low as $3 to as high as $380. The all-time peak was reached in a February 2021 eBay auction when a bidder purchased a PSA 10 graded card for $1,125.

Among the most prized of his cards is the 1989 NBA Hoops Series 1 #138, which can command up to $400 if it's in gem mint condition. Even the slightly less pristine PSA 9 example Fcan go for around $40, while a PSA 8 (near mint) lands at a respectable $25.

The pièce de résistance of David Robinson's card collection is undoubtedly the 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations, which fetched an impressive $1,125 in a February 2021 eBay auction. So, for those seeking investment-worthy cards that also pay homage to the legendary San Antonio Spurs star, look no further than his rookie cards for a slam-dunk investment.

Who is David Robinson?

Born on August 6, 1965, in Key West, Florida, David Robinson is an NBA legend, standing 7 feet 1 inch tall. His legacy shares the court with basketball legends like Shaquille O'Neal, Patrick Ewing, and Hakeem Olajuwon. After dominating college basketball at the United States Naval Academy, David was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 1987.

Dave led the team to an epic single-season turnaround, earning him the Rookie of the Year title. With two NBA championships, ten All-Star appearances, an MVP trophy, and a spot on the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, Robinson's stats are no joke.

Oh, and did we mention he's also a philanthropic powerhouse? Truly, Robinson is the Admiral of the Game, leaving a legacy as massive as his height.

You can buy a PSA gem mint 1990 Fleer All Stars David Robinson #10 for just $70.
Source: psacard.com

Most valuable David Robinson rookie card list

The legendary Spurs player David Robinson is a name that stands tall when it comes to sports collectibles. With his fantastic performance on the court, his rookie cards consistently rose in value and have become highly sought after by collectors.

Robinson's era produced only six collectible rookie card variations, adding excitement and rarity to today's vast card lineup. Thanks to his autographs and unique card variations, collectors are eager to add David Robinson's gems to their collections. 


Here are the details of some of the most impressive David Robinson rookie cards, such as the iconic 1989 NBA Hoops Series 1 David Robinson Rookie Card #138 and the rare 1988 Diamond Shamrock San Antonio Police David Robinson Rookie. With their values consistently on the rise, these cards could make great investments.

1. 1989 NBA Hoops Series 1 David Robinson Rookie Card #138

  • Price Range: $2 to $400
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,500
  • Supply: 811
  • Brand: NBA Hoops

A PSA 10-graded 1989 NBA Hoops Series 1 David Robinson RC #138 fetched $1,500 in February 2021.
Source: psacard.com

The iconic 1989 NBA Hoops Series 1 David Robinson #138 holds a special place in collectors' hearts and wallets. With the retro-vibe image of a beaming Robinson in a suit, lifting his prized Spurs jersey, this card sent waves through the market upon its release.

The rarity of first-year players on Hoops cards, coupled with their short print run, fueled price surges and counterfeit appearances. A PSA 10 card fetched $1,500 in a February 2021 eBay sale.

2. 1990 NBA Hoops David Robinson Rookie Card #270

  • Price Range: $3 to $35
  • Highest Sale Price: $155
  • Supply: 195
  • Brand: NBA Hoops

The 1990 NBA Hoops David Robinson Rookie Card #270 sells for $3 to $35.
Source: psacard.com

The iconic 1990 NBA Hoops David Robinson Rookie Card #270 celebrates his unanimous 1990 Rookie of the Year victory. The card features a dynamic in-game shot of Robinson posting up, encased in a visually striking design. Framing the image is a silver and dark pink border within an arch, crowned with a yellow "Rookie of the Year" banner and stars.

The San Antonio Spurs logo card is valued at around $10 for a PSA 9, while gem mint examples average $35 on eBay.

3. 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations David Robinson Rookie Card #1 

  • Price Range: $3 to $380
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,125  
  • Supply: 260 
  • Brand: Fleer

In February 2021, a PSA gem mint 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations David Robinson #1 auctioned for $1,125 on eBay.
Source: psacard.com

The 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations David Robinson basketball card features the iconic NBA Hall of Famer in action. The card displays Robinson holding the ball high, poised to make a pass, set against a vivid blue background with the Rookie Sensation logo in striking yellow. On the reverse side, a bio detailing Robinson's postponed career because of Navy service.

Card prices for the 1990 Fleer Rookie Sensations David Robinson RC #1 vary, with values from as low as $3 to as high as $380. The all-time peak was reached in a February 2021 eBay auction when a bidder purchased a PSA 10 graded card for $1,125.

4. 1988 Diamond Shamrock San Antonio Police David Robinson (With Tab) RC

  • Price Range: $4 to $405
  • Highest Sale Price: $525
  • Supply: 35
  • Brand: Spurs Police

The 1988 Diamond Shamrock San Antonio Police David Robinson basketball card has a PSA-10 supply of just 35.
Source: psacard.com

The 1988 Diamond Shamrock San Antonio Police David Robinson basketball card is a historic gem with an intriguing origin. Born from a local anti-drug campaign, the card includes a unique tear-off tab for a Spurs road trip contest. Its slightly oversized layout showcases a cheerful Robinson holding a basketball, donning his iconic jersey.

The black-and-white stripes add a touch of flair, while the colorful Spurs banner screams team spirit. While you might snag it for a few dollars in good condition, higher grades can fetch a bit more, such as a rare PSA 10 example selling for $525 as the Best Offer on eBay in August 2020.

5. 1990 Fleer David Robinson RC #172 

  • Price Range: $2 to $30
  • Highest Sale Price: $350
  • Supply: 1,360
  • Brand:  Fleer

Add value to your sports card collection with the 1990 Fleer David Robinson rookie card.
Source: psacard.com

The 1990 Fleer David Robinson Rookie Card captures the essence of his breakout season, featuring an awe-inspiring action shot of Robinson dunking with ease. This stylish card design features pink and white striping, making it a visual delight. Plus, it's not just any card in the set; it rubs shoulders with rookie cards of legends like Tim Hardaway, Vlade Divac, and Glen Rice.

With prices ranging from a few bucks for lower grades to a cool $30 for a gem mint, this card is a slam-dunk investment opportunity.

Are David Robinson rookie cards a good investment?

David Robinson cards can be dazzling alternative investments, with values consistently rising like the legendary Admiral himself. With values rising consistently, these cards are a favorite among collectors and investors. From autographed copies to limited editions, the market is buzzing with excitement.

PSA-10 examples of the 1989 NBA Hoops David Robinson Rookie Card #310 fetch $42 on average.
Source: psacard.com

David Robinson cards shine as alternative investment assets, with their value consistently soaring, reflecting the legendary Admiral's reputation. Collectors and investors favor these cards, where autographed and limited edition cards create a thriving market buzz.

One notable example is the 1989 NBA Hoops David Robinson Rookie Card Series 2 #310, with PSA 10s reaching around $400 in value. Before jumping into this market, you must do your homework, stay up-to-date on auction sales, and track trends on sites like eBay.

Affiliates and industry experts provide valuable insights for investors considering this alternative investment for retirement planning or portfolio diversification. Always look out for autographed cards, special editions, and high-quality images. Furthermore, be vigilant regarding card condition, grading, and potential counterfeits.

Zooming in on recent market highlights and staying informed of changing dynamics is essential for successfully investing in collectibles like David Robinson cards. For example, Skybox cards have been popular among collectors. Consulting reliable sources and continuously updating your knowledge will help you make informed decisions to reach your investment goals.