As the centerpiece of the Boston Celtics' dynasty of the 1960s, Bill Russell combined a 6'10" frame with an immense wingspan to become one of the most dominant defensive forces in NBA history. On a Boston team loaded with scoring talent, his primary responsibility at the center position was shutting down other teams' big men, and his battles with contemporary Wilt Chamberlain are deeply embedded in the game's folklore. As the center of attention, Russell claimed a then-record 51 rebounds in a 1960 battle with the Syracuse Nationals (since broken only by Chamberlain). If you're detecting a theme it's no coincidence, as stunning centering highlights this 1957 Topps Bill Russell Rookie card, which carries a strong SGC NM-MT 8 grade. A condition issue with so many vintage sets, we're confident in anointing this as one of the best-centered examples in the world; better, in fact, than the PSA 9 card showing on their website. One of the few athletes in history to reach elite status primarily on his rebounding and shot-blocking attributes, Russell's astounding 11 NBA Championships is strong evidence of his invaluable contributions to the most decorated franchise in league history, and this magnificent rookie entry from the man who was named to the league's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team in 2021 stands as a rare and exceptional prize.

Estimate: $200,000-$250,000