Fanatics and Sotheby’s, the dynamic duo of collectors’ dreams, are once again teaming up to tantalize enthusiasts with the most coveted sports cards in the world. Following the resounding success of their first endeavor, the “Holy Grails” auction, which left jaws dropped and wallets lighter, they are set to unveil their latest gem – the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.”
Picture this: a room filled with rare and historic Upper Deck Exquisite cards, each one a testament to the artistry and prestige of sports card collecting. These gems aren’t just pieces of cardboard; they are priceless treasures that hold stories of greatness and achievement within their glossy frames.
The “Holy Grails” auction, the precursor to this grand event, was nothing short of spectacular. With sales exceeding $7 million from just 33 cards, it set the stage for what promises to be an even more extraordinary showcase. From a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 fetching a staggering $840,000 to a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph commanding $432,000, the auction was a rollercoaster of exhilarating bids and record-breaking sales.
But wait, there’s more. A Shohei Ohtani card that set a then-record at $336,000 added to the frenzy, solidifying the partnership between Fanatics and Sotheby’s as a dominant force in the collectibles market. The success of “Holy Grails” was a mere precursor to the greatness that awaits in the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.”
This time around, the focus is solely on the Upper Deck Exquisite line – a product revered for its premium quality, innovative designs, and the coveted Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs) it offers. These 11 ultra-rare cards, including individual LeBron James masterpieces and a legendary Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman triple Logoman card, are not mere trading cards. They are pieces of history seamlessly melded with art, rarity, and player significance.
Let’s talk legacy. When Upper Deck introduced the Exquisite line, it was a game-changer. Karvin Cheung’s brainchild disrupted the sports card industry with its high-end RPAs at previously unfathomed price points. While skepticism loomed at its inception, Exquisite gradually ascended to the throne, becoming the epitome of opulence in the sports card realm. Today, these cards are not just collectibles; they are cultural artifacts that demand astronomical prices for their unparalleled significance.
So mark your calendars, dear collectors, investors, and fans. The “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is not just an auction; it’s a spectacle, a momentous occasion that will reverberate through the sports card market. With Sotheby’s renowned curation and a lineup of unparalleled treasures, this event has the potential to redefine the very fabric of sports card collecting.
Set your reminders for December 16th, the day that promises to be etched in the annals of sports card history. Don’t just watch from the sidelines; immerse yourself in the thrill and excitement of witnessing (or even participating in) the sale of some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever created.