The recent conclusion of the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction unveiled an array of extraordinary sales, captivating collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Among the standout items that commanded attention and impressive bids was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey. This vest-style road flannel, worn during a remarkable year for Clemente, fetched a staggering $256,714. Graded highly by SGC, the jersey’s exceptional quality and preservation contributed to its allure for avid collectors.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his stellar 1942 season secured $191,563, adding another layer of excitement to the auction. This unique garment, a special gift to a dedicated Fenway Park fan that had been altered for a better fit, stands as the sole known jersey from Williams’ noteworthy 1942 campaign, making it a significant discovery for sports memorabilia connoisseurs. Furthermore, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s found a new home after selling for $40,920, further enhancing the auction’s prestige.
One of the auction’s prized possessions was a baseball autographed by baseball legends Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, a cherished family heirloom that garnered bids up to $102,694. This immaculate piece also featured signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, creating a valuable and historical artifact for collectors. Additionally, a 1920s signed photo of Ruth and Lou Gehrig fetched $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph commanded a price of $85,772, reflecting the enduring appeal of vintage sports memorabilia.
Standing out amidst the offerings was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card. Graded 8 by PSA, this rare and coveted item ignited a fierce bidding war, culminating in a final sale price of $232,847, underscoring a significant moment in the auction market for PMG Championship cards.
The auction also featured unopened sports memorabilia, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, among other enticing items. A notable highlight was the sale of a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy, which fetched $165,479, adding a touch of equestrian history to the auction’s diverse offerings.
Moreover, game-worn items took center stage, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from iconic figures like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas captivating bidders and commanding substantial interest and high bids. The Winter Classic Auction at Lelands once again showcased the enduring allure and excitement surrounding rare and iconic sports memorabilia, leaving collectors eager for future opportunities to acquire these prized pieces.
