The 1995-96 Fleer Ultra Scoring Kings Michael Jordan is often overshadowed by the legendary 1993-94 version, but for a true “chase” collector, the Hot Pack parallel of this card is a masterpiece of 90s scarcity.
This is the second time we are grading this card and will be our 31st time grading a card.
Here is the breakdown of why this card is a “must-know” for your collection.
1. The Pull: One Pack to Rule Them All
In 1995, Fleer Ultra Series 2 featured Hot Packs at a rate of roughly 1 in 72 packs. Unlike standard packs, every single card inside a Hot Pack was a parallel insert.
The Odds: While the standard Scoring Kings Jordan was a 1:24 hobby pack pull, the Hot Pack version was part of that 1:72 pack miracle.
Identification: To the untrained eye, they look similar, but the Hot Pack version often has a more vibrant, “liquid” gold foil application compared to the matte finish of the standard insert.
2. Rarity & The PSA 10 “Wall”
This card is a “condition rarity” gatekeeper. Because it’s a borderless foil card, any friction inside the pack or 30 years of storage creates “white-out” edges.
As of early 2026, the PSA Population Report shows just how hard it is to Gem:
Total Graded (Hot Pack): Hundreds have been submitted.
PSA 10 (Gem Mint): Only 10 exist globally.
PSA 9 (Mint): Roughly 62 exist.
Why so few 10s? Most copies suffer from “foil snow” (tiny white dots in the gold stamping) or corner blunting from being the front or back card in those specific Hot Packs.
Crescent Vale Self-Graded Scores
Centering: One of the best subgrades to this card was the centering with 8.5
Edges: The edges showed wear and received an 7.5.
Corners: The back left lower corner displayed the most wear and brought the score to a 8.
Surface: With minimal imperfections, the surface got a 8.
Overall Self-Graded Score: 8 NM-MINT
Grok AI Scores
Detailed Breakdown from the Provided Images:Centering: Appears very strong front and back. The borders look roughly even (likely 55/45 to 60/40 or better on both axes). No major off-centering visible in the close-ups or full shots. This would score 9.0–9.5 (excellent for this insert).
Corners: All four corners show visible wear and rounding/fraying. Multiple close-ups reveal noticeable blunting, minor dings, and slight whitening/chipping, especially on the bottom-right and top corners (evident in angled shots on the gray surface). This is the most significant issue — common on these foil cards due to age and handling. Corners would score 6.0–7.0 (the limiting factor).
Edges: Edges show some roughness and minor chipping/notching, particularly along the bottom and sides (visible in edge-on shots with purple/blue foil bleed or wear). No major dents, but light wear consistent with 25+ year-old stock. Edges would score 7.0–8.0.
Surface: The foil/holographic sheen looks mostly intact with good gloss retention. However, there are visible scratches, scuffs, and light print lines (especially in angled lighting shots showing the surface texture). Some minor print defects or handling marks appear on the front (e.g., near the diamond border and Jordan’s image). No major creases, stains, or heavy print roller marks, but the surface isn’t pristine. Surface would score 7.5–8.0.
Overall Grade Assessment
Combining these (with corners being the primary drag), the card presents as a solid mid-grade example with strong eye appeal for display but clear wear that prevents higher marks. It is well above “played” condition but below near-mint territory due to the corner wear.
PSA Grade: 7 NM (Near Mint) — A 7 is appropriate here: nice overall look, but corners/edges show moderate wear, and surface has light imperfections typical for this insert set.
BGS Grade Equivalent: Likely 7.5 or 7 (with sub-grades something like Centering 9, Corners 6.5–7, Edges 7.5, Surface 8).
Overall Grade: 7-8 (NM-MT range)
Please Note: This card is housed in a custom display slab for superior protection and presentation. While the label may include descriptive details, this is not a grade from a third-party professional service (such as PSA, BGS, or SGC). The card is being sold as Raw/Ungraded. Please review the high-resolution photos provided to make your own assessment of the card’s condition before bidding or purchasing.
