A rare LeBron James autographed rookie card has sold for more than $318,000.

James' signed Upper Deck Exquisite Collection rookie card fetched $318,500 through online bidding conducted by Goldin Auctions.

Sports memorabilia expert Ken Goldin called the item the "Holy Grail of modern trading cards," saying it is "the most valuable LeBron James collector's item out there." Even more valuable than a game-worn, autographed jersey.

Among basketball cards, it is the third-highest sum paid, trailing rookie cards for Lew Alcindor (1969, $501,900) and George Mikan (1948, $403,664).