Tom Brady, the iconic NFL quarterback, continues to make headlines even after his retirement. The final jersey he wore in his last game with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has shattered records at a highly anticipated Sotheby’s auction. With a final price of $1,391,000, it surpassed all previous sales for an NFL game-worn jersey, establishing a new benchmark for sports memorabilia.
Brady donned this historic jersey during the second half of the Buccaneers’ playoff defeat against the Dallas Cowboys on January 16, 2022. Although the sale price fell short of the pre-auction estimates of $1.5 million to $2.5 million, it still managed to surpass the previous record of $1.2 million held by a Joe Montana Super Bowl jersey.
The prestigious auction took place amidst the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, adding an extra layer of glamour to the event. In addition to the jersey, the auction featured an array of cars and racing collectibles, creating a thrilling atmosphere for both sports and car enthusiasts alike.
Tom Brady’s remarkable performance in his final NFL appearance only added to the allure of the jersey. The legendary quarterback threw for an impressive 351 yards, setting a record for the highest yardage by any player in their final playoff game. This historical significance undoubtedly played a role in driving up the bidding frenzy for this coveted piece of football history.
The jersey itself is a size 44 Nike garment, adorned with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ team emblem and a captain’s patch. Notably, it also bears marks of game play, such as grass stains, making it a tangible connection to the intensity and energy of Brady’s last game. Adding to its allure, the jersey features Brady’s signature, as well as the inscriptions “My Last Game” and “GOAT Out!”, paying homage to his widely recognized status as the Greatest of All Time.
This is not the first time that Brady’s jerseys have commanded astronomical prices at auction. Earlier this fall, his 700th career touchdown pass jersey was sold for an impressive $1.2 million, with the proceeds going to charity. In both instances, bidders recognized the immense historical significance attached to these iconic pieces of memorabilia, thus driving up their values.
While the auction has drawn attention to the incredible sale, the provenance of the jersey remains shrouded in mystery. Sotheby’s has confirmed that the jersey was sold privately before it hit the auction block. However, the details of its journey from Brady to the eventual buyer remain undisclosed. The secrecy surrounding its ownership only adds to the intrigue and mystique of this highly sought-after item.
As Tom Brady’s illustrious football career comes to a close, his impact on the sport and the memorabilia market is undeniable. The sale of his final game-worn jersey at Sotheby’s has not only shattered records but also exemplified the enduring popularity and value of sports collectibles. This historic auction serves as a testament to Brady’s legacy and the unwavering excitement surrounding his storied career.
