The final NFL jersey donned by legendary quarterback Tom Brady has made waves in the world of sports collectibles. The jersey fetched a staggering $1,391,000 at a recent auction held by renowned auction house, Sotheby’s. This impressive sale price not only broke records but also surpassed all previous sales for an NFL game-worn jersey.
Tom Brady wore this iconic jersey during the second half of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff defeat against the Dallas Cowboys on January 16, 2022. Despite not reaching the pre-auction estimates of $1.5 million to $2.5 million, the final sale price still exceeded the previous record of $1.2 million set by a Joe Montana Super Bowl jersey.
The auction took place amidst the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which added an extra buzz and allure to the event. In addition to Brady’s jersey, the auction featured a range of cars and racing collectibles, creating a unique atmosphere for sports and racing enthusiasts alike.
Tom Brady retired from professional football after an illustrious 23-season career, culminating on February 1. During his final NFL appearance, Brady threw for a remarkable 351 yards, making it the highest yardage achieved by any player in their last playoff game. This impressive performance undoubtedly contributed to the high value placed on the jersey in the auction.
The game-worn jersey, a size 44 Nike model, showcases various elements that add to its allure. It features the Tampa Bay Buccaneers team emblem, captain’s patch, and unmistakable signs of game play, including grass stains. To add a personal touch, the jersey also bears Tom Brady’s signature and two notable notations: “My Last Game” and “GOAT Out!” These additional markings make the jersey even more special and appealing to avid collectors.
This is not the first time that a Tom Brady jersey has attracted such a high price tag. Earlier this fall, his 700th career touchdown pass jersey was also auctioned off for a remarkable $1.2 million, with the proceeds going to charity. The provenance of the jersey sold at Sotheby’s remains private, with the auction house confirming that it had been sold privately before the auction. However, the details of how the jersey made its way from Tom Brady to the auction block are still undisclosed.
Tom Brady’s impact on the sport of football is undeniable, and the demand for memorabilia associated with his career continues to soar. The sale of his game-worn jersey at Sotheby’s sets a new benchmark for NFL collectibles and demonstrates the enduring appeal of one of football’s greatest players.
Collectors and fans were undoubtedly captivated by the opportunity to own a piece of NFL history, one that symbolizes the closing chapter of Tom Brady’s unforgettable career. As the auction concluded, the jersey found a new owner willing to pay the hefty sum of $1.4 million for this significant piece of sports memorabilia.
In this ever-growing market of sports collectibles, the sale of Tom Brady’s final NFL jersey establishes a new record and cements his status not only as a hall-of-fame quarterback but also as a cultural icon within the realm of sports. It is a testament to his achievements as an athlete, and the enduring admiration of fans around the world will ensure that his legacy lives on through timeless pieces like this coveted game-worn jersey.