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LeBron James Rookie Patch Autograph #78 front scan.

Exact public reference scan matched to this specific 2003 card from a Google-surfaced card page. External image remains hosted by the source.

Reference scan source

This card is using an exact public reference scan matched to the specific checklist entry. The image remains hosted by the source page listed below.

2003-04

LeBron James Rookie Patch Autograph #78

The defining card of the debut Exquisite release for many collectors: a source-backed LeBron James rookie patch autograph from the celebrated /99 tier. Its long-term market history and symbolism helped cement 2003 Exquisite as a cornerstone of the modern high-end basketball card era.

Year2003-04
SetUpper Deck Exquisite Collection Basketball
SubsetRookie Patch Autographs
Insert familyRookie Patch Autographs
Card number#78
PlayersLeBron James
TeamsCleveland Cavaliers
RookieYes
AutographYes
MemorabiliaYes
Serial numbering/99
Appearance kindsolo

Project source notes

  • TCDB 2003-04 base checklist: Used for the full 78-card 2003-04 base backbone: the 42-card veteran shell plus the 36-card rookie patch autograph run. It anchors the debut-year numbering structure and keeps the archive honest about which rookie and base cards are actually present.
  • SI Collectibles 2003-04 Exquisite essentials: Used to cross-check iconic 2003-04 singles like the LeBron James rookie patch autograph, Dwyane Wade rookie patch autograph, and Michael Jordan Limited Logos.
  • Cardboard Connection inside story of the 2003-04 Exquisite LeBron James rookie: Used to deepen the editorial framing around the set's long-term significance, especially the LeBron James rookie patch autograph as a cornerstone of the modern high-end basketball card market.
  • Cardboard Connection 2003-04 checklist: Used for debut-year release context, packaging and market framing, rookie patch autograph significance, and broader hobby-language support around why the first Exquisite basketball release still matters.

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