The recent Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction provided an exciting showcase for sports memorabilia enthusiasts, culminating in remarkable sales that left collectors buzzing with excitement. Among the standout items that drew considerable attention were a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey and a Ted Williams jersey from his exceptional 1942 season.
The star of the auction was undoubtedly the 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, which fetched an impressive $256,714. This vest-style road flannel, bearing the marks of Clemente’s prowess on the field during a standout year for the legendary player, received a sterling grade from SGC, reaffirming its exceptional quality and pristine condition.
Not to be outshone, a Ted Williams jersey worn during his remarkable 1942 season commanded a price of $191,563. This unique piece, gifted to a devoted Fenway Park fan and expertly altered for a better fit, stands as the lone surviving jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a highly sought-after gem for collectors. Adding to the allure of Williams memorabilia, a 1940s warm-up jacket worn by the Red Sox icon garnered $40,920, further solidifying his enduring legacy in the sports memorabilia market.
One of the most coveted items up for auction was a baseball autographed by baseball legends Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, alongside Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, which witnessed spirited bidding and fetched an impressive $102,694. In addition, a 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig commanded a price of $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph sold for $85,772, affirming the enduring appeal of baseball collectibles among enthusiasts.
A major highlight of the auction was the inclusion of a rare 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card. Graded 8 by PSA, this scarce item ignited a fierce bidding war among collectors, ultimately selling for an astounding $232,847, setting a new benchmark in the market for PMG Championship cards and underscoring the enduring popularity of basketball memorabilia.
The auction also featured a range of unopened sports memorabilia, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, alongside a prized 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy that garnered a winning bid of $165,479, showcasing the diverse array of collectibles that captivated bidders’ interests.
Additionally, game-worn items were in high demand, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from sports icons such as Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas attracting significant interest and commanding impressive bids, further highlighting the enduring appeal of memorabilia tied to legendary athletes and moments in sports history.
