NBA superstar LeBron James is a record-setter in the memorabilia world as well as on the court.

A rare James trading card from his rookie season with the Cleveland Cavaliers-one of only 23 manufactured-sold for $1.8 million on Saturday.

James signed the card, which features a patch from one of his jerseys, and it was graded at 9.5-"Gem Mint condition" according to Goldin Auctions.

"The incomparable superstar has penned a vivid blue ink signature on the obverse of this ultra-premium collectible," Goldin Auctions said in the description of the item. "Its card-front presentation also incorporates an exceptional, tricolor James-worn jersey patch relic."

Bidding began on the card at $150,000. The Cavaliers selected James with the first pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. He is now a 16-time All-Star and three-time NBA champion.

The previous record for most expensive sports trading card belonged to baseball's Mike Trout. In May, one of Trout's cards sold for $923,000.

Xinhua - Agencies