The recent Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction has left sports memorabilia enthusiasts buzzing with excitement and awe. Amongst the plethora of exceptional items up for grabs, it was the memorabilia of baseball legends Roberto Clemente and Ted Williams that truly stole the show.
The highlight of the auction was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, a precious vest-style road flannel that fetched an astonishing $256,714. Graded highly by SGC, this jersey holds not just historical significance but also stands out for its impeccable quality and preservation, making it a prized possession for any serious collector.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his remarkable 1942 season commanded an impressive price of $191,563. This unique piece, originally gifted to a dedicated Fenway Park fan and later altered for a better fit, holds the distinction of being the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a rare gem for avid collectors. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s added to the allure of the auction, selling for $40,920.
Among the other standout lots was a baseball autographed by legends Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, along with signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, which fetched bids up to $102,694. A 1920s Ruth-Lou Gehrig signed photo and a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph realized impressive prices of $131,066 and $85,772, respectively.
One of the most coveted items that sent ripples through the auction market was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA, which ignited a fierce bidding war and ultimately sold for a staggering $232,847, marking a significant moment in the realm of PMG Championship cards.
The auction also featured a range of unopened sports memorabilia, 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 another highlight of the auction, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey commanding considerable interest, along with memorabilia from sports icons like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas, all attracting high bids and fervent attention from collectors.
In conclusion, the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction was a resounding success, showcasing a diverse array of rare and remarkable sports memorabilia that captivated bidders and collectors alike. The extraordinary sales of Clemente and Williams memorabilia underscored the enduring appeal and value of collecting pieces of sporting history.