1996 Fleer Ultra Steve Shifflett Rookie #425
Steve Shifflett · Fleer/SkyBox International · Rookie Card (Base)
Player
Steve Shifflett
Set
1996 Fleer Ultra Series 2
Year
1996
Card #
#425
Condition Grade
PSA 3 (VG) to PSA 4 (VG-EX)
Category
Rookie Card (Base)
Manufacturer
Fleer/SkyBox International
Demand Level
Low / Niche
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$0.10 - $0.50
Graded Value
PSA 8: $12-18, PSA 9: $25-35, PSA 10: $75-100 (Note: Grading costs exceed card value)
Comparable Sales
Raw copies of this specific card typically sell for $0.25 to $1.00 in bulk lots. Graded copies are extremely rare because the '96 Ultra set is notoriously difficult to find in Gem Mint condition due to edge chipping, and the player is not a high-demand star.
Description
This 1996 Fleer Ultra card features Kansas City Royals pitcher Steve Shifflett in an action-oriented pitching pose. The card utilizes the premium 'Ultra' design of the mid-90s, featuring full-bleed photography, a gold-foil 'Ultra Rookie' banner in the top left, and teal/copper marbleized foil name plates at the bottom. As a Series 2 release, it highlights then-current prospects.
Key Features
Official Rookie Card designation; iconic 1990s high-gloss design; foil-stamped lettering and rookie banner.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence in authenticity. This is a common card from the 'junk wax' era transition period. Authenticity markers include the specific marble foil texture and the unique high-gloss UV coating characteristic of mid-90s Fleer Ultra products. Not a known target for counterfeiting.
Flaws to Note
Significant condition issues: The top right corner is severely dinged/bent with white cardboard showing. The bottom edge shows multiple points of chipping and white wear (typical for 1996 Ultra's dark edges). There is visible surface scratching on the high-gloss coating near the pitcher's shoulder. Centering appears slightly shifted toward the bottom.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best sold in a 'Quarter Box' at a local card show, as part of a Kansas City Royals team set on eBay, or donated to a younger collector. The cost of individual shipping often exceeds the market value of the card.
Selling Tips
Do not grade this card. Given the visible corner damage and the player's limited career (35 MLB games), the cost of the grading fee far outweighs the potential return. If selling, bundle it with other 1996 Royals or other Fleer Ultra rookies to attract shoppers looking to complete sets.