PWCC Marketplace’s November Premier Auction has once again made headlines in the sports card collecting community. A 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies edition featuring basketball legend Michael Jordan was sold for an impressive six-figure sum of $216,000, setting a new record for this specific /50 parallel card.
The 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies card is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and association with Michael Jordan. This particular card now holds the title for being the second most expensive Star Rubies card ever sold. The Skybox Premium series played a crucial role in introducing serial-numbered cards to collectors, creating a sense of rarity within the hobby. Cards like the Star Rubies and Skybox’s Precious Metal Gems have become highly coveted among collectors.
What sets the 1998 release apart is its significance as the final Skybox set to feature Jordan before his retirement in 1998. This adds to its value and appeal among collectors. The cards from this set are known for their intricate foil details and edge-to-edge design, making them visually appealing. However, these design features also make them more susceptible to wear, making cards in good condition even rarer.
The record-breaking Jordan card received a PSA 7 grade and holds a Pop 4 distinction. This means that only four cards of this type have received the same grade, with just five others graded higher. The combination of its condition, rarity, and association with Michael Jordan contributes to its extraordinary price point.
But the auction didn’t stop at the Michael Jordan card. Other collectibles also reached new heights in terms of value. A PSA 1 (MC) graded 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 card, despite its less-than-perfect condition, sold for an impressive $35,400. The enduring popularity of Mickey Mantle makes his cards highly sought after by collectors.
Another record was set with the sale of a Kobe Bryant 1999 Upper Deck Game Jerseys patch auto card, which fetched $32,700. As a fan-favorite and one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Kobe Bryant’s memorabilia has seen a surge in demand since his tragic passing in early 2020.
In the world of motorsports, a 2020 Topps Dynasty F1 card featuring Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas garnered $20,400. The popularity of Formula 1 racing, combined with the star power of Hamilton and Bottas, contributed to this card’s strong sale price.
Overall, PWCC Marketplace’s November Premier Auction showcased the continued growth and excitement in the sports card collecting market. The record-breaking sale of the Michael Jordan card, along with the impressive prices achieved by other collectibles, demonstrates the enduring appeal and value of these rare and iconic pieces of sports history.