Rookie card or First year card? Know the difference!

Recently got a call from a friend looking at a Lebron James rookie card auction. The card was graded pretty high which is always good. The problem was the card was listed as a "rookie card".
The first thing I told him to do was read the label from the grading gepany. The better grading gepanies will have the word rookie on the label somewhere if the card is an actual rookie. Know the difference between a "rookie card" and a "1st year" card. Although it was a first year card, it was not considered a rookie card. This factor has a considerable effect on value. With a graded card its easy to tell. Simply read the label carefully. If it doesnt say "rookie" its not. Ungraded cards simply require a little research which can usually be done by looking at other auctions or a good price guide.
A little research before you buy is always a good idea.