In a thrilling auction event preceding Super Bowl Sunday, Johnny Unitas’ prized ring from the Baltimore Colts’ Super Bowl V victory achieved an astounding sale price of $258,500. This auction took place as part of the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction held in Las Vegas, featuring several remarkable items from the Hall of Fame quarterback’s illustrious career. All the items were consigned by Unitas’ family, drawing substantial interest and high bids despite his early exit from the game due to injury against the Dallas Cowboys.
Surpassing the auction price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring was his 1958 NFL championship ring, which fetched over $100,000 less at $150,000. This championship ring commemorated Unitas’ crucial role in the legendary overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game that is credited with propelling professional football to new heights of national popularity.
Among the other noteworthy items from Unitas’ collection that were sold at the auction were his Hall of Fame ring, which fetched a respectable $38,175, symbolizing his esteemed status in football history, and his 1967 NFL MVP award, which commanded a price of $64,625. A pair of Unitas’ iconic high-top cleats also attracted attention and was sold for $27,025, completing the ensemble of memorabilia from one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game.
Matching the top sale price of Unitas’ Super Bowl ring was a game-worn jersey worn by none other than Tom Brady in 2014. This legendary jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, fetched an impressive $258,500, signifying the remarkable season in which Brady secured his fourth of seven Super Bowl titles.
The auction also encompassed items from other football legends, including Anthony Munoz, the Hall of Fame offensive lineman. A game-worn jersey from the 1980s Cincinnati Bengals, worn by Munoz during his dominant career, was sold for $16,450, showcasing the enduring significance of his contributions to the sport. Additionally, the uniform worn by Munoz in his final NFL game realized $11,456, marking a poignant moment in his illustrious career.
Further sales at the auction included a 2023 Brock Purdy game-worn jersey, which sold for $30,550, reflecting the growing interest in memorabilia from rising stars in the football world. A 2022 Lamar Jackson game-worn jersey attracted a commendable bid of $22,325, highlighting the excitement surrounding this dynamic quarterback. The auction also presented a 1980s Ronnie Lott game-worn helmet, which garnered a price of $19,975, emphasizing the enduring appeal of defensive legends. A 1997 Dan Marino game-worn jersey fetched $17,625, paying homage to one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NFL history. Finally, a game-used Super Bowl XXXVIII football went for $14,100, reminding collectors and fans of the thrilling moments witnessed on the field during historic Super Bowls.
The auction served as a testament to the lasting legacy of football legends and the increasing value placed on their memorabilia. Collectors and avid fans eagerly sought to own a piece of sports history, contributing to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction.