Top 5 Most Valuable Sacramento Kings Basketball Cards of All Time

The Sacramento Kings are one of the oldest franchises in the NBA, dating back to their founding as the Rochester Royals in 1948. Over the years, the team has featured some incredible Hall of Fame talent like Oscar Robertson, Nate Archibald, Chris Webber, and Mitch Richmond. Naturally, basketball cards featuring these Kings legends are highly sought after by collectors. Let's take a look at the 5 most valuable Sacramento Kings basketball cards of all time.

1. 1951 Bowman Oscar Robertson RC #36

Often considered the greatest all-around player in NBA history, Oscar Robertson began his illustrious career with the then-Cincinnati Royals in 1960 after a legendary college run at the University of Cincinnati. Nicknamed "The Big O", Robertson completely dominated the game, averaging a triple-double in his first 5 seasons in the league. His stunning rookie card, found in the 1951 Bowman set, is the holy grail for Kings collectors today. A PSA 10 gem mint copy of this card sold for an astounding $180,000 in 2013. Even lower graded copies easily fetch 5 figures at auction. The image showcases the rookie superstar ready to put the league on notice.

2. 1986 Fleer Nate Archibald Auto RC #2A

Before Allen Iverson and Kyrie Irving, there was "Tiny" Nate Archibald running the point with ruthless efficiency. Though undersized at just 6 feet 1 inch, Archibald played giant during his 6 seasons piloting the Kings offense. The diminutive PG led the league in scoring and assists in 1973, becoming the first and only player to ever do so. Archibald's stunning 1986 Fleer autographed rookie is highly coveted today. A BGS 9.5 mint copy with a perfect 10 auto graded sold for $62,730 in 2021. Only 100 copies were ever printed, making it one of the rarest basketball cards on the market. The bold blue signature pops against the white border, capturing Archibald's greatness.

3. 1992 Upper Deck USA Mitch Richmond Auto #1

Mitch Richmond was one of the most prolific scorers of his era. Spending 7 seasons in Sacramento, the 6 time All-Star averaged over 21 points per game. His silky smooth jumper and acrobatic drives made him a human highlight reel. The Iowa native's 1992 Upper Deck USA autograph is arguably his most sought after card. Limited to only 10 copies, it features Richmond's on-card signature in bold black ink. A PSA 10 gem mint copy commanded $50,400 at auction in 2021. Against a clean white background, the signed card exhibits Richmond's offensive dominance.

4. 1997 Topps Chrome Refractor #138 Chris Webber

A dynamic power forward with dazzling athleticism and smooth post moves, Chris Webber was the face of the franchise during the Kings' glory years in the early 2000's. After coming over in a blockbuster trade with Washington in 1998, CWebb transformed the Kings into perennial contenders. His 1997 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card captures Webber in his early days as a Bullet. The refractors create a stunning rainbow effect, living up to the hype of 1990s insert cards. A BGS 10 pristine copy sold in excess of $45,000 in 2022. With Webber looking to make an aggressive move, this card reflects his all-star pedigree.

5. 1948 Bowman Rochester Royals #29 Bob Davies

As the oldest Kings' card on the list, this gem showcases early NBA action with Hall of Famer Bob Davies. One of the game's original superstars, Davies was known for his exceptional ball handling and court vision. After beginning his career with the Rochester Royals in 1948, he led the league in assists for 3 straight seasons. His rookie card in the iconic 1948 Bowman set is an extremely tough find today. A PSA 5 example still managed to sell for $7,800 in 2021, speaking to its rarity. Against a simple white background, Davies dribbles up court ready to dazzle fans with his slick passing.

The Sacramento Kings have showcased tremendous talent throughout decades of NBA action. Basketball cards of franchise greats like Oscar Robertson, Nate Archibald, Mitch Richmond and Chris Webber are highly coveted by collectors. Vintage Hall of Famers like Bob Davies also command strong prices at auction. As the team continues striving for its first championship, there will surely be new Kings stars emerging with rookie cards one day valued among the all-time greats. For now, these five legendary basketball cards represent the upper echelon of Sacramento Kings collecting.