The recent conclusion of the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction has left collectors and sports enthusiasts buzzing with excitement and awe over the impressive array of rare and valuable sports memorabilia that went under the hammer.
Leading the pack were two iconic jerseys, with a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey stealing the spotlight by fetching an astounding $256,714. This vest-style road flannel, a relic from Clemente’s standout season, was awarded an excellent grade by SGC, cementing its status as a prized piece of sports history.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his exceptional 1942 season also drew significant attention, commanding a price of $191,563. This unique jersey, a gift to a dedicated Fenway Park fan that underwent alterations for a better fit, stands as the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors. Adding to the allure was a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s, which sold for a handsome $40,920.
A baseball autographed by legends Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, along with signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, was another highlight of the auction, reaching an impressive bid of $102,694. This treasured family heirloom captivated bidders with its historical significance and pristine condition. Additionally, a 1920s Ruth-Lou Gehrig signed photo and a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph also garnered substantial interest, selling for $131,066 and $85,772, respectively.
One standout gem of the auction was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA. This rare find ignited a fierce bidding war and ultimately sold for a staggering $232,847, setting a significant benchmark in the market for PMG Championship cards.
The auction didn’t just feature jerseys and cards – unopened sports memorabilia also made a splash, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box, a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, and a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy, which fetched an impressive $165,479.
Game-worn items were a clear highlight of the event, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from iconic players like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas commanding attention and attracting high bids from eager collectors. The auction proved to be a treasure trove for sports memorabilia enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich history and allure of these iconic pieces.
