The recent Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction showcased a treasure trove of sports memorabilia, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. Among the standout items were game-worn jerseys from baseball legends Roberto Clemente and Ted Williams, both fetching impressive sums and generating immense interest.
The crown jewel of the auction was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, crafted from a vest-style road flannel that exuded the essence of baseball history. The jersey, worn during a standout year for Clemente, commanded a staggering $256,714, a testament to its rarity and significance. Graded highly by SGC, the jersey’s impeccable quality and remarkable preservation set it apart as a coveted piece for any serious collector.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his exceptional 1942 season stole the spotlight, fetching a noteworthy $191,563. This unique jersey, which was meticulously altered for a better fit and gifted to a devoted Fenway Park fan, stands as the sole known jersey from Williams’ memorable 1942 campaign. Its acquisition marks a momentous find for collectors, underscoring the enduring appeal of vintage baseball memorabilia. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s fetched $40,920, further enhancing the auction’s allure with its historical significance.
Among the other notable sales was a baseball autographed by the iconic duo of Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, accompanied by signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, which fetched up to $102,694. This cherished family heirloom provided a glimpse into baseball’s storied past, evoking nostalgia and admiration for the legends of yesteryear. A 1920s signed photo featuring Ruth and Lou Gehrig garnered $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph sold for $85,772, further showcasing the enduring appeal of baseball memorabilia.
A true standout in the auction was the 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded an 8 by PSA, which ignited a fierce bidding war and ultimately sold for an impressive $232,847. This rare and coveted item not only symbolizes the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan but also signifies a significant milestone in the auction market for PMG Championship cards.
The auction also featured a captivating array of unopened sports memorabilia, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, enticing collectors with the allure of untouched treasures. Additionally, a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy fetched $165,479, adding a touch of equestrian history to the diverse offerings of the auction.
Game-worn items were a highlight of the event, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from legendary athletes such as Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas garnering considerable interest and commanding high bids. These pieces not only serve as tangible connections to sports history but also spark the imagination and passion of collectors across the globe.