This is a popular insert from the 1995-96 Fleer Metal set (“Nuts & Bolts” parallel/insert). It features heavy embossed/metal-foil technology with a textured silver background that gives it a unique industrial look. These cards are condition-sensitive due to the complex foil and embossing, which can show edge wear, corner dings, or surface scratches easily.
Grading Basis: Direct analysis of all provided high-resolution images (full front/back + macro close-ups of corners, edges, foil/embossing, nameplate, and surface).
Crescent Vale Self-Graded Scores
Centering: The centering is exact and scored a 10.
Edges: The edges had minor wear and scored a 9.5.
Corners: The corners had slight wear and scored a 9.
Surface: There was no issues with the surface and scored a 10.
Crescent Vale Self-Graded Score: 9.5 Mint+
Grok AI Scores
PSA Grade Estimate: PSA 8 (solid candidate for PSA 9)
Key Factors (PSA scale):
Centering: 9.0 – Well-balanced photo and design elements.
Corners: 8.0–8.5 – Mostly sharp, but macros reveal minor softening or light wear on the foil/embossed edges (very common with Metal cards).
Edges: 8.0 – Some typical whitening or texture along the perimeter due to the thick foil stock. No major dents, but the embossing makes edges vulnerable.
Surface: 8.5 – Good reflectivity on the foil with no major scratches or delamination. The embossed “NUTS & BOLTS” text and player image hold up well. The back is clean.
Eye Appeal: Strong. The metallic background and action shot create excellent visual depth.Cross-Reference: Fleer Metal inserts frequently grade in the 7–9 range because of the foil construction. PSA 8–9 examples are desirable for collectors, with 10s being quite rare.
Grok AI Overall Score: 8.5-9
BGS Subgrades & Overall: BGS 8.5
Centering: 9.0 – Strong.
Corners: 8.5 – Minor foil wear.
Edges: 8.0 – Typical for embossed Metal cards.
Surface: 9.0 – Solid foil and embossing retention.
Grok AI Overall Score: 8.5 (9.0 possible on a lenient pass).
Market Context & Recommendation:
These Metal cards have a dedicated following for their innovative 90s technology and Jordan appeal.
This is a nice mid-grade example that avoids major defects. Submit to PSA or BGS depending on your preference. The embossing and foil make it a fun display piece even raw.
Consistent with the other 90s foil inserts you’ve shared — strong eye appeal with the expected technical challenges of the era’s premium stock.
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.
