The Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction wrapped up with a bang, showcasing remarkable sales that sent collectors into a frenzy. One of the standout pieces was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey that commanded an impressive $256,714 price tag. This vest-style road flannel, donned during a stellar year for Clemente, earned a top-tier grade from SGC, emphasizing its exceptional quality and remarkable condition.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his outstanding 1942 season fetched an impressive $191,563. This special item, gifted to a passionate Fenway Park fan and altered for a better fit, stands as the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a significant discovery for enthusiasts. In a nod to Williams’ legacy, a warm-up jacket from the 1940s bearing his name sold for $40,920, further adding to the allure of the auction.
One of the most coveted lots was a baseball autographed by Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, a cherished heirloom with bids reaching up to $102,694. This pristine piece also featured signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, adding to its historical value. Additionally, a 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig fetched $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph attracted a solid $85,772.
A true highlight of the auction was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded an impressive 8 by PSA. This rare gem ignited a heated bidding war, culminating in a staggering $232,847 sale, marking a significant milestone in the market for PMG Championship cards.
The auction also showcased unopened sports memorabilia, such as a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, captivating bidders with their pristine condition and historical significance. Notably, a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy changed hands for $165,479, adding a touch of equestrian history to the event.
Game-worn items stole the spotlight, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from sports legends like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas drawing substantial interest and commanding impressive bids. The Lelands Winter Classic Auction certainly did not disappoint, offering a treasure trove of iconic sports memorabilia for avid collectors and enthusiasts alike.