Let's be very clear about this - fact is that Kobe has a lot more autos than Kareem...but that has little to do with my points below.
I'd say the actual value of each of the cards is roughly the same...you might get more in fact for the Kobe, but it is close.
So to me, as a pure collector, it comes down to 'what card would you want more'? To me, I'd cherish the Kareem, due to growing up in the '80s with 'Cap'. But if Kobe means more to you, then keep the box topper. If you are looking to flip for a profit, I'd say it is a wash and keep the Kobe until he retires in a couple of years.
Bottom line...keep/chase the one you want!
I'd say the actual value of each of the cards is roughly the same...you might get more in fact for the Kobe, but it is close.
So to me, as a pure collector, it comes down to 'what card would you want more'? To me, I'd cherish the Kareem, due to growing up in the '80s with 'Cap'. But if Kobe means more to you, then keep the box topper. If you are looking to flip for a profit, I'd say it is a wash and keep the Kobe until he retires in a couple of years.
Bottom line...keep/chase the one you want!