The bidding wars were fierce, the stakes high, and the excitement palpable at the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction. Sports memorabilia enthusiasts and collectors assembled both online and in person to vie for prized items from baseball legends Roberto Clemente and Ted Williams, among other iconic figures. The event culminated in extraordinary sales that left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
One of the standout pieces was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, a vest-style road flannel that fetched an impressive $256,714. This jersey, from a standout year for Clemente, garnered an outstanding grade from SGC, indicating its exceptional quality and preservation. It was a treasure eagerly sought after by fans of the legendary Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his exceptional 1942 season captured the attention of bidders, selling for a remarkable $191,563. This unique jersey, given as a gift to a devoted Fenway Park fan and altered for a better fit, is the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a rare gem for collectors. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s added to the allure of the auction, commanding a price of $40,920.
Another highlight was a baseball autographed by Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, a cherished family heirloom that drew bids up to $102,694. This pristine piece also bore the signatures of Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, adding to its historical significance. A 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig fetched $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA 9 autograph sold for $85,772, further showcasing the enduring appeal of baseball memorabilia.
A true gem in the auction was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA, which ignited a bidding frenzy and ultimately sold for an impressive $232,847. This rare item marked a significant event in the auction market for PMG Championship cards, highlighting the enduring popularity of collectibles featuring basketball icon Michael Jordan.
The auction also featured unopened sports memorabilia, such as a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, alongside a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy, which commanded a price of $165,479. These items offered collectors the opportunity to acquire rare and sought-after pieces to add to their collections.
Game-worn items were also in the spotlight, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from sports legends Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas attracting significant interest and commanding impressive bids. The auction was a testament to the enduring appeal of sports memorabilia and the passionate collectors who seek out these pieces of history.
As the final gavel fell, the Lelands Winter Classic Auction had left its mark on the sports memorabilia world, with record-breaking sales and unforgettable moments that will be cherished by collectors for years to come.
