1997 Kobe Bryant Green PMG Card Sets $3.15 Million Record

Context The market for Kobe Bryant memorabilia has remained strong since his 2020 passing. In August 2025 a 1997‑98 Bryant card fetched $2.3 million, which at the time was the top price for a solo Bryant card. That record has now been exceeded.

Key Facts According to ESPN, the buyer paid $3.15 million for the Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Green card. Only ten green PMG cards were produced for Bryant’s rookie year, and just three have been graded by Professional Sports Authenticator. This particular example received a PSA 5 grade, with only one green PMG graded higher.

What It Means The sale signals continued investor appetite for rare, high‑grade basketball cards, especially those tied to iconic athletes. It also highlights how scarcity and grading standards drive premium prices in the trading‑card segment. Collectors may now reassess valuation models for similar limited‑run inserts.

Watch for upcoming auctions of other Bryant green PMGs and whether any achieve a PSA 6 or higher grade, which could push prices further.