In an event that has basketball enthusiasts and collectors buzzing with excitement, a remarkable set of six sneakers worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is heading to the auction block. After being privately held for years, these iconic pieces of sports history are now ready to be sold to the highest bidder in an upcoming auction organized by Sotheby’s. With a pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million, this auction, scheduled to open on February 2nd, is set to make waves in the sports memorabilia world.
Known as The Dynasty Collection, these sneakers were once the prized possession of a private collector who acquired them from Tim Hallam, the public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during their dominant era in the 1990s. The collection spans the Bulls’ championship years from 1991 through 1998, with each sneaker personally autographed by Michael Jordan, the Finals MVP in each of those championship series.
This unique collection, displayed at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City, showcases various models of Air Jordans that Jordan wore during his illustrious career. It includes the Air Jordan VI (1991), inspired by Jordan’s Porsche 911, the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992), the first model without Nike branding, the Air Jordan VIII (1993) featuring the “x-strap” design, the “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole, the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997), and the “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), an early prototype mirroring his Ferrari 550 Maranello.
What sets this collection apart is not just the sneakers themselves but also a set of unique signed photographs. These photographs capture Jordan in the moments following each championship win, with him wearing only one sneaker while the other was already in Tim Hallam’s possession. This humorous yet historic exchange between Jordan and Hallam adds a personal touch to the collection.
Each sneaker in The Dynasty Collection represents a milestone in Jordan’s career, showcasing his evolving style and the advancements in sneaker technology over the years. To ensure their authenticity, these sneakers have undergone rigorous verification processes, including detailed certifications and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by CSG and other experts.
This auction comes on the heels of the recent record-breaking sale of another pair of Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 Finals Game 2, which fetched a staggering $2.2 million, setting the record for the highest price ever paid for game-worn shoes. The upcoming auction of The Dynasty Collection is not just a sports memorabilia event; it presents a rare opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a piece of basketball history and to be a part of Michael Jordan’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest athletes in the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate basketball fan, this auction is not to be missed.
