Fanatics and Sotheby’s have once again joined forces to unveil a stunning array of sports cards in their upcoming auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.” This highly anticipated event follows the massive success of their initial collaboration, “Holy Grails,” which captivated collectors worldwide with its exceptional offerings and record-breaking sales.
The inaugural auction, “Holy Grails,” achieved phenomenal results by raking in over $7 million from the sale of just 33 cards. Among the standout pieces were a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9, fetching an impressive $840,000, a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph selling for $432,000, and a Shohei Ohtani card that set a then-record price of $336,000. These extraordinary sales highlighted the burgeoning demand for high-end sports cards and firmly established the Fanatics and Sotheby’s partnership as a dominant player in the collectibles market.
For their upcoming auction, the focus shifts exclusively to the revered Upper Deck Exquisite line, which has long been synonymous with luxury and rarity in the sports card industry. This exclusive collection comprises 11 extraordinary cards, featuring individual masterpieces of LeBron James and a remarkable triple Logoman card showcasing Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman—a nod to the legendary Chicago Bulls dynasty. These cards are not merely collectibles; they are cherished works of art that encapsulate rarity, player significance, and historical value.
The Exquisite line, introduced by Upper Deck under the visionary leadership of Karvin Cheung, broke new ground with its innovative Rookie Patch Autographs and premium materials. Despite initial skepticism, Exquisite cards ultimately redefined the standard for elite sports cards, commanding staggering prices that reflect their cultural importance and desirability among enthusiasts and investors.
The upcoming “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction promises to attract a global audience of collectors and fans eager to experience the pinnacle of sports card curation. With Sotheby’s legacy as a premier presenter of fine collectibles and the unparalleled selection on offer, this auction is poised to set new benchmarks in the sports card market.
Mark your calendars for December 16th, when the auction goes live. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a passionate fan, or an astute investor, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness the sale of some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever produced. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event in sports card history.
