The recent Goldin Auctions April Elite sale created waves in the world of sports collectibles as memorabilia connected to NBA phenoms Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama fetched staggering prices. The auction coincided with a pivotal playoff game where Anthony Edwards showcased his talent, likely amplifying the interest in his collectibles.
One of the standout items was an early NBA jersey worn by Anthony Edwards in just his fourth career game, which commanded a jaw-dropping price of $118,978. This sale not only set a record for any public auctioned Edwards jersey but also came with the bonus of MeiGray/NBA authentication, along with photomatching evidence of him achieving his first career block and contributing 12 points during the game. Edwards’ meteoric rise to stardom was solidified during the 2024 playoffs, where he etched his name alongside legends by becoming one of the youngest players to score over 40 points in consecutive postseason games.
In addition to Edwards’ jersey, a 2020-21 Panini National Treasures Rookie Patch Autograph card scored big as well, raking in an impressive $85,550 at the auction. Graded BGS GEM MINT 9.5 with a perfect Beckett 10 for the autograph, this card further solidifies Edwards’ position as a top collector’s choice.
Victor Wembanyama, another rising basketball star, also captured the attention of bidders, particularly when it came to his rookie cards. A 2023-24 Panini Prizm Green Shimmer First Off The Line rookie card, boasting a unique 1 of 5 numbering and being graded PSA 10, garnered a hefty $113,460. Another prized possession, a Gold Shimmer rookie card numbered 7/10, wasn’t far behind in value, closing at $49,410.
The auction didn’t only focus on modern basketball sensations; it also delved into timeless treasures. A 1996-97 Kobe Bryant Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card fetched an impressive $92,720, while a 2018 Panini Prizm World Cup Gold Power Prizm Kylian Mbappe rookie card, graded BGS MINT 9, commanded a noteworthy $92,190.
Former Duke University standout Cherokee Parks also made a mark at the auction with his NCAA Championship and other rings, with his 1994 Championship ring fetching $44,320, adding a dimension of history to the event.
Photographs capturing iconic moments from the early careers of basketball legends Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar also found their place in the auction, selling for $15,982 and $14,640 respectively, further enhancing the allure of the collectibles.
The auction further showcased the diversity in sports memorabilia with Fernando Tatis’ early MLB jersey capturing his first career road game, closing at an impressive $10,098. This eclectic mix of items underscores the enduring appeal and robust demand for sports collectibles that traverse generations and sports.