The Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction recently came to a close, leaving collectors and sports enthusiasts buzzing over the remarkable sales that took place. One of the standout items was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, which fetched an impressive $256,714. This vest-style road flannel not only had historical significance but also received a stellar grade from SGC, highlighting its exceptional quality and preservation.
Ted Williams, another baseball legend, also stole the show at the auction. A jersey from his exceptional 1942 season sold for $191,563, making it a prized possession for any collector. This particular jersey, gifted to a devoted Fenway Park fan and modified for a better fit, is the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a truly unique find. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s fetched $40,920, further adding to the allure of the auction.
For fans of baseball history, a baseball autographed by Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner was a highlight of the event, with bids reaching up to $102,694. This cherished family heirloom also featured signatures from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, adding to its value and appeal. A 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig sold for $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA grade of 9 autograph fetched $85,772, showcasing the enduring popularity of such rare items.
One of the most coveted pieces in the auction was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA. This rare gem sparked a fierce bidding war and ultimately sold for an impressive $232,847, underscoring the growing interest in PMG Championship cards in the auction market.
The auction also featured a selection of unopened sports memorabilia, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, capturing the attention of collectors looking for pristine pieces from the past. Additionally, a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy fetched $165,479, adding a touch of equestrian history to the auction.
Game-worn items were also in high demand, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey attracting significant interest, along with memorabilia from legendary athletes like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas. These items resonated with collectors looking to own a piece of sports history from iconic figures in the world of athletics.
Overall, the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction was a resounding success, with standout sales of Clemente and Williams memorabilia leading the way and captivating collectors with their historical significance and rarity.
