Graded PRISTINE 10 by BGS (0007578023). Hall of Famer, in a universally celebrated Rookie Card appearance. Among a total of more than 300 copies of this piece recorded in Beckett's census reporting, fewer than 5 percent have achieved this elite tier with only two copies graded higher. Los Angeles Lakers icon Kobe Bryant is the star of this seminal, essentially uncirculated Topps Chrome Refractor debut-year collectible. In the estimations of many collectors, this is the iconic Bryant first-year representation; the classic cardfront image, featuring the "Black Mamba" driving to the rim against the Minnesota Timberwolves, is one of the most recognizable rookie card images in the hobby. Bryant's presence in the '96-97 Topps Chrome basketball production made the set an industry touchstone, and collectors continue to clamor for the issue's unopened products in the hopes of pulling this significant entry. The offered example displays a wholly superlative manner of preservation, with next-to-no wear discernable along the condition-sensitive chromium borders, stellar centering, razor-sharp corners, and exceptional image fidelity. This is a deeply important encapsulation of Bryant's entry into the NBA, and a standout tribute to the dearly departed star, who tragically passed away in 2020. The card's BGS condition report: Centering: 9.5, Corners: 10, Edges: 10, Surface: 10 The offered card stands as a super-premium, top-tier memorial to its subject's greatness and character.