Surge in Value of Menendez Brothers’ 1990 Trading Cards

The trading cards featuring Eric and Lyle Menendez from 1990 have seen a remarkable increase in value following their parents’ high-profile murder case in Beverly Hills back in 1996.

One particular card, obtained by Fox News Digital, showcases Mark Jackson from the New York Knicks. It gained notoriety after an observant collector spotted the Menendez brothers in the background during a game.

The revelation sparked keen interest among collectors and true crime fans alike.

Originally valued at just a few cents, the prices of these cards have surged, with some listings reaching into the hundreds of dollars.

However, eBay later removed a listing that clearly referenced the Menendez brothers, citing guidelines regarding items linked to violent crimes.

According to a report from TMZ, some collectors have even sent their cards to the imprisoned brothers for autographs.

Even before the murders of their parents, Kitty and Jose Menendez, in August 1989, the brothers had already begun indulging in a lavish lifestyle, including purchasing courtside seats at New York Knicks games during the 1989-1990 season.

In the aftermath of their parents’ brutal killings, the Menendez brothers lived quite extravagantly—an image that seemed to contradict their claims of sorrow and trauma.

The defense would later portray their spending as a psychological coping mechanism, stemming from years of alleged abuse. In contrast, prosecutors contended that the brothers’ actions were motivated by a desire to seize family assets.

Lyle reportedly splurged on designer clothes and luxury cars, investing significantly in restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey.

Testimony from jewelry sales representative Mary Ellen Mahal revealed that just four days post-murder, the brothers visited her store and spent around $15,000 on three Rolex watches.

Lyle lived in luxurious accommodations, including the famed Beverly Hills Hotel, while Eric similarly lavishly spent on high-end fashion, upscale hotels, and international trips.

After the tragic events, Eric even pursued a career in professional tennis, hiring coaches and participating in international competitions.

Interestingly, when Lyle was arrested on March 8, 1990, Eric was competing in a tournament in Israel but returned voluntarily to face the situation.

Both men have confessed to the 1989 shotgun killings of their parents inside their Beverly Hills home.

Since their latest response, the brothers are now eligible for parole.

They are scheduled to appear before the Parole Board via video on June 13, 2025, at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility. The board will determine whether to recommend their release, but the final decision rests with California Governor Gavin Newsom.