Learn All About the Bill Russell Rookie Card

By: Marty Beets

Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest players of all time.  He played for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969 and was a member of 11 championship teams.

His rookie and early cards are very sought after and valuable. Let's take a look at some of these vintage Bill Russell cards:

1957 TOPPS

Card #77

This is the card that most collectors consider to be the primary Bill Russell rookie card.  

The 1957 Topps Bill Russell card (#77) was from the first basketball set made by Topps.  It is extremely valuable in mint condition.

1955 All-American Sports Club

Card #61

This is an obscure card that issued while Russell was in college.   It is considered a pre-rookie

The 1955 All-American Sports Club card is Bill Russell's first card.  This card is from a multi-sport set that had to be hand-cut. Russell is featured as a college player.

3.

1961-62 Fleer

cards #38 & 62

These cards are early Bill Russell cards issued by Fleer.  They are not considered rookie cards.

Bill Russell's had two cards in the 1961-62 Fleer set. These cards are highly collectable, but they were produced four years after the 1957 Topps card.

Here's a summary of Bill Russell's early cards. 

1955 All American Sports Considered a pre-rookie

1957 TOPPS Universally considered a rookie card

1961-62 Fleer Not rookie cards