Cajun Cardboard's (YT and IG) Michael Jordan Hierarchy is a comprehensive ranking of Michael Jordan's basketball cards ever assembled. Finalized in June 2023, this project groups nearly 400 of MJ's most coveted cards into four tiers, ranging from the ultra-rare grails to more attainable but still significant collectibles. The Hierarchy covers everything from iconic rookie cards to legendary 1990s inserts.
- Tier 1 – The Pinnacle (27 Cards): The absolute best of the best—these 27 cards are the "holy grails" of Jordan collecting. They include his most iconic and rarest cards, such as the 1986 Fleer rookie, Star XRC, PMG Greens/Reds, Jambalaya, Ultra Stars Gold, Essential Credentials, and top Exquisite patch-autos. All are either extremely limited serial-numbered issues or notoriously tough inserts, often with pack odds of 1:1000 or rarer. High-grade examples are virtually nonexistent and command massive premiums.
- Tier 2 – High-End Icons (54 Cards): A step below Tier 1, these 54 cards are still elite and highly sought after. They include rare inserts, parallels, and important mainstream cards from the 1980s through 1999, such as additional Fleer base/stickers and popular 90s inserts (Beam Team, Scoring Kings, Hot Numbers). Many are very limited or condition-sensitive, and top-graded copies can command five-figure prices.
- Tier 3 – Rare and Significant Cards (81 Cards): This tier features 81 cards that are rare, innovative, or historically significant, but generally more obtainable than the Tier 1–2 elite. These include tough 1990s inserts and parallels, often with print runs under a few hundred or tough pack odds. While not quite as valuable as the top tiers, these are still high-end by most standards.
- Tier 4 – Desirable but More Common (216 Cards): The final tier includes 216 cards that are more readily available or lower in value compared to Tiers 1–3, but still highly desirable for collectors. These might include lower-tier inserts and parallels that are essential for anyone building a comprehensive Jordan collection.