In an exciting auction event preceding Super Bowl Sunday, Johnny Unitas’ ring from the Baltimore Colts’ Super Bowl V victory achieved an astonishing sale price of $258,500. This auction, which took place in Las Vegas as part of the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction, featured several items from the legendary Hall of Fame quarterback’s storied career, all consigned by his family. Despite an early exit due to injury in the game against the Dallas Cowboys, Unitas’ memorabilia, including his Super Bowl ring, attracted significant interest and fetched high bids.
What makes this sale even more remarkable is that the auction price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring surpassed that of his 1958 NFL championship ring by over $100,000. The latter ring commemorates his pivotal role in the iconic overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game that is credited with elevating the national stature of professional football.
Numerous other items from Unitas’ memorabilia collection were also sold at the auction. His Hall of Fame ring, a symbol of his incredible achievements, fetched an impressive $38,175. Additionally, his 1967 NFL MVP award, a testament to his exceptional skills and leadership, went for $64,625. Another sought-after item was a pair of Unitas’ signature high-top cleats, which were sold for $27,025.
Sharing the top sale price with Unitas’ Super Bowl ring was a 2014 game-worn jersey by none other than Tom Brady. This jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, fetched an impressive $258,500. It represented a season in which Brady secured his fourth of seven Super Bowl titles, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
Aside from Unitas and Brady, the auction also featured items from other football legends, including Anthony Munoz, the Hall of Fame offensive lineman. A game-worn 1980s Cincinnati Bengals jersey worn by Munoz sold for $16,450, showcasing the enduring appeal of his legacy. Additionally, the uniform from Munoz’s final NFL game realized a noteworthy price of $11,456.
Other notable sales included a 2023 game-worn jersey by Brock Purdy, fetching $30,550, and a 2022 game-worn jersey by Lamar Jackson, which sold for $22,325. Football fans and collectors were also drawn to a 1980s game-worn helmet by Ronnie Lott, which went for $19,975. A 1997 game-worn jersey by Dan Marino garnered a significant price of $17,625. Finally, a game-used Super Bowl XXXVIII football sold for $14,100, further demonstrating the enduring value of memorabilia from football legends.
The auction served as a reminder of the legacy and historical significance of these football icons. Collectors and fans alike were eager to own a piece of sports history, driving the prices of these rare and coveted items to remarkable heights.
