Just released: The Spring 2023 Art Market Auction & Asset Class Report
As the world of alternative assets continues to thrive, rare books stand out as one of the oldest and most enduring forms of collectibles. With their rich history, cultural significance, and potential for appreciation, rare books offer a unique and rewarding investment opportunity for both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of rare book collecting and investing, exploring the key factors to consider and the steps to get started.
Rare books are among the oldest form of collectibles, with a history that spans centuries. Esteemed auction houses, such as Sotheby's and Christie's, both had their origins as book auction houses, a testament to the lasting appeal of rare books.
The allure of rare books lies in their ability to transport readers to different worlds and eras, while also serving as tangible connections to the past. Whether it's a first edition of a literary classic, an illuminated manuscript, or a signed copy of a beloved author's work, rare books are cherished for their historical and artistic value.
When it comes to investing in and collecting rare books, several factors can influence a book's rarity and value:
Entering the world of rare book collecting can be both exciting and daunting. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Rare book collecting is a journey of discovery and appreciation, offering the opportunity to connect with history, culture, and the written word. Whether you're an avid reader, a literary enthusiast, or an investor seeking alternative assets, rare books provide a unique and enrich
Photo Credit: Unsplash -- Natalia Y.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
Photomatching is a process used to verify the authenticity of sports memorabilia, particularly game-worn jerseys and equipment, by comparing them to photographs taken during games or events. The goal of photomatching is to determine whether a particular item was actually used by an athlete during a specific game or event.
Photomatching involves analyzing high-resolution photographs from games or events to identify unique characteristics or markings on a piece of memorabilia. These unique features can include stains, stitching patterns, wear marks, and other identifiable details. By matching these features to those seen in the photographs, it's possible to confirm that the item was worn or used by the athlete in question during that specific event.
Photomatching is an essential tool for verifying the authenticity of sports memorabilia. It helps collectors and investors determine whether an item is genuine and was actually used by an athlete during a game or event. This verification adds value to the item and provides peace of mind for those looking to purchase or invest in sports memorabilia.
While photomatching is commonly used for game-worn jerseys, it can also be applied to other types of sports memorabilia, such as helmets, gloves, bats, and balls. However, photomatching is not always possible for every item. It requires clear, high-resolution photographs from the specific game or event, and the item must have unique characteristics or markings that can be matched to those in the photographs.
Photomatching is typically performed by specialized authentication companies that have expertise in analyzing sports memorabilia and access to extensive photographic archives. Among the leading companies in the field of photomatching are MeiGray Group and Resolution Photomatching. These companies use advanced techniques to match items to photographs and provide certificates of authenticity for successfully photomatched items. Through their meticulous examination process, both names have become trusted in the sports memorabilia space, helping collectors and investors verify the authenticity of their prized items.
Photomatching is not foolproof and has some limitations. It relies on the availability of high-quality photographs from the specific game or event, which may not always be available. Additionally, if an item lacks unique characteristics or markings, it may be difficult or impossible to match it to photographs. Finally, photomatching can only verify that an item was used during a specific event; it cannot determine how many times the item was used or whether it was used by the same athlete in other games.
We hope this FAQ has provided valuable information about the process of photomatching. For more information about sports memorabilia and alternative asset investing, explore our other resources and guides on Altan Insights.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
An efficient market is one in which asset prices fully reflect all available information, resulting in a fair and accurate representation of an asset's value. In contrast, inefficient markets are those in which information asymmetry, limited liquidity, and other factors may lead to mispricing of assets. In this FAQ, we'll explore the concept of market efficiency and discuss whether collectible markets are considered inefficient.
An efficient market is a financial market where prices accurately reflect all known information about the assets being traded. In an efficient market, it is challenging for investors to achieve excess returns consistently because any new information is quickly incorporated into asset prices, eliminating arbitrage opportunities.
Several factors contribute to market efficiency, including a large number of well-informed participants, access to relevant information, low transaction costs, and high liquidity. When these factors are present, new information is rapidly disseminated and reflected in asset prices, leading to greater market efficiency.
Collectible markets often have lower liquidity than more efficient markets like stocks. Liquidity can play a significant role in a collector's success or failure in realizing optimal value for their collectibles. Many collectible markets are beset by low liquidity, and that's especially the case in times of stress. Additionally, collectible markets may have higher information asymmetry, where some participants have access to more information than others.
Collectible markets are often considered less efficient than traditional financial markets like stocks and bonds. Factors such as limited liquidity, information asymmetry, and the subjective nature of valuing collectibles can contribute to inefficiency. However, this does not mean that opportunities for profit do not exist; rather, it suggests that pricing discrepancies may persist for longer periods allowing for keen eyed collectors to reap profits.
Yes, market inefficiencies can create opportunities for collectors and investors to capitalize on mispricing in collectible markets. For example, if a collector has specialized knowledge about a specific category of collectibles, they may be able to identify undervalued items and profit from their eventual appreciation. However, it's important to exercise caution and conduct thorough research, as inefficiencies can also lead to risks and uncertainties.
We hope this FAQ has provided valuable insights into the concept of market efficiency and how it applies to collectible markets. For more information about collectibles and alternative asset investing, explore our other resources and guides on Altan Insights.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
The value of alternative assets, such as collectibles, art, and other non-traditional investments, is influenced by a range of factors. These factors include scarcity, liquidity, market sentiment, trends, and catalysts, among others. In this FAQ, we'll explore these factors and how they can affect the value of alternative assets.
Scarcity is a key trait common among most, if not all, collectible alternative assets of significant value. An asset is considered scarce when it is deficient in quantity or number compared to the demand for the asset. Scarcity can drive up the value of an asset, as collectors and investors are willing to pay a premium for items that are rare and hard to obtain1
Liquidity refers to the ease with which an asset can be bought or sold in the market without significantly affecting its price. Alternative assets with low liquidity may be more challenging to sell quickly and at a fair price, which can affect their overall value. In contrast, assets with high liquidity are generally more accessible to a broader pool of buyers and will not have its value constrained by liquidity.
Market sentiment and trends can have a significant impact on the value of alternative assets. The popularity of certain trends, investor sentiment, and supply and demand dynamics all play a role in determining the value of collectible assets. For example, if a particular type of collectible gains widespread popularity, its value may increase as more collectors seek to acquire it. Conversely, negative sentiment or a shift in trends can lead to decreased demand and lower values.
A catalyst is an event or development that causes a significant change in the value of an asset. Catalysts can be positive or negative, meaning they can cause an asset's value to go up or down. Examples of catalysts for collectible assets include the release of new information about the asset, changes in market conditions, significant auction results, or notable events related to the asset's history or cultural significance. Catalysts are typically expected to drive short-term, rapid changes in value.
Yes, there are risks associated with the factors that influence alternative asset value. Market sentiment and trends can be unpredictable, leading to potential fluctuations in value. Additionally, low liquidity can pose challenges for investors looking to exit their positions. It's also important to consider the possibility of changes in the regulatory landscape, economic conditions, or other external factors that could impact the value of alternative assets.
We hope this FAQ has provided valuable insights into the factors that affect alternative asset value. For more information about alternative assets and strategies for successful investing, explore our other resources and guides on Altan Insights.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
Population reports are data sets that track collectibles graded by individual grading firms. Each offers insight into their rarity and distribution among collectors. By analyzing these reports, collectors can identify the scarcity of each asset; allowing them to come to conclusions about their value. Population reports are a wealth of information when analyzing the assets you already have and ones you would like to own in the future.
Grading agencies like PSA, Beckett, WATA, CGC, and SGC use population reports as a sort of "collectible census" to keep track of graded items' rarity and conditions. They meticulously record each item they grade, noting its condition, category, and any other defining characteristics. Each time an asset is sent to one of these firms to be graded, it is recorded in the population report for other collectors to analyze. By maintaining these detailed population reports, they help buyers and sellers navigate the sometimes untrustworthy nature of collectibles markets.
Collectors can access population reports through the websites of grading agencies like PSA, Beckett, WATA, CGC, and SGC, where they're often available for free or sometimes offered through a subscription service. Those linked below are free for anyone to take a look!
These reports guide collectors to their desired collectible's rarity and value. To interpret a population report, collectors can look at individual items, say “1999 #58 Pikachu Red Cheeks Shadowless PSA 8”, in order to understand the rarity of an individual card. You can also research assets more broadly–by category, athlete name, Card Set, etc… Once you have an idea of the supply of an asset, you can then surmise the item's relative value by comparing the population figures; although this must be done with an eye towards demand as well, as it is an equally important factor in the value of an asset. With this knowledge, collectors can confidently negotiate deals, avoid overpaying for items, and spot hidden gems in the wild.
The value of a collectible based on its population report can be influenced by several factors, including its condition, rarity, and demand within the market. Although just because an asset is rare does not guarantee a high imputed value. The population report merely serves to give a snapshot of supply at a moment in time. It's essential to remember that a collectible's value is not solely determined by the population report; collectors must also consider factors like historical significance, cultural relevance, and the whims of the market. If collectors are able to accurately predict these factors, population reports will allow them the information they need to profitably grow their collection.
Video game pop reports differ from other categories in that they are broken down in such a way that represents video games as opposed to a broader list of filters. WATA breaks everything down first by console–you can search for games under anything from the Atari 2600 to Xbox 360. Then you can drill down into the “state” of graded games within each console: Sealed (factory sealed), CIB (complete in box), and Cart (loose cartridge). With Sealed being the most rare, followed by CIB and then Cart.
After being broken down by state, you can drill down into each title. Although, one title will have several different “variants”; each of which is a different printing of the game. For example, each of the below is a unique variant of “NES Super Mario Bros.”. These variants are then broken down again by overall grade (from 1-10) and seal grade (from C+ to A++).
Each variant of a single title can go for wildly varying prices. In the above, “*Made in Japan, Hangtab - NES-GP - NES Code '' is among the most valuable variants. Due to its rarity, only 7 of the 205 total population, but also since it is from a relatively early printing period before the NES completely took over the North American console market.
Comic book population reports are organized in a way dissimilar to other assets. Firstly, by “series title” and “issue #”—these two delineate the graded book from different ones in the series and from alternate series’ altogether.
Once you search by those two parameters, you are met with a list of titles attached to different ‘publisher’, ‘year’, and ‘issue date’.
Each publisher is wont to stop and start a series as fan interest waxes and wanes, so for a popular series you will see many different issues, albeit with the same issue #. Clicking into an individual title will give you a detailed look at the population of the asset; broken down not only by grade, but by label as well. The label of the book is a signal as to how we should interpret the grade. CGC assigns the following labels to their graded comic books:
Universal (Blue)
Signature Series (Yellow)
Qualified (Green)
Restored (Purple)
Pedigree (Gold)
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
We compiled the all-time auction price records for video games as of February 23rd, 2023. Be sure to check back as we update the list as new records are set!
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As one of the only two non-Nintendo games on the list we have to give Sega some credit for keeping Sonic on the mind of gamers all these years later in spite of losing the console wars around 30 years ago now. It is even more fun when you know that Sonic was created in an effort to compete with Nintendo’s own mascot, Mario. Sonic’s attitudinous, devil-may-care demeanor was meant to appeal to teenaged North American fans.
The company pushed very hard for Sonic to become the face of their brand. “Sonic the Hedgehog” became the bundled game with the Sega Genesis replacing ‘Altered Beast’ (another classic, we might add); in fact Sega even offered those that bought a Genesis with ‘Altered Beast’ a trade-in replacement for Sonic.
This example is one of 42 graded copies from WATA. Of those, 17 were graded higher. This is a beautiful, well-maintained object, but since it was sold at the height of the video-game market frenzy in 2021 it received a significant premium. To see this record broken we would likely have to see one of the two highest graded copies (WATA 9.8 A++) be sold.
Alright second Genesis game, but also the last. A good one to be sure though, like all the titles on this list the Madden name persists into video gaming today. So much so to the point that most young fans today have no clue that John Madden was a wildly successful NFL coach and broadcaster on top of his achievements in the world of gaming.
Madden lent not only his name, but his expertise to the game. It began development in 1984 and was not released until four years later in 1988, albeit on the Apple II not the Sega Genesis. The game spent so much time in development due to Madden’s devotion to accuracy. When arguing with EA developers over how the game needed to be 11-on-11, he was quoted as saying “I'm not putting my name on it if it's not real.”. He was thinking of the game as an educational tool for people to better understand the game of football. Madden’s uncompromising attitude led to his game being the football game.
It is always interesting looking back to see how mega-brands came to be. The Madden name is now indelibly linked with football. Fifa, NHL ( AKA “Chel” *gag*), NBA 2K, MLB The Show. Boring, the whole lot of them. John Madden may have passed away in 2021, but he gets to live on in the PS4's and Xbox One's of football fans everywhere.
WATA has graded 14 copies of the 1990 Genesis version of “John Madden Football” of those 14 there are 8 better. This is another object that isn’t exactly the crème de la crème of graded copies, but when you consider 400,000 copies of this game were sold 1 of 14 ain’t too shabby. Especially when you consider that this copy came from the office of John Madden himself.
Although not his first appearance on the small screen, ‘Super Mario Bros.’ on the NES was Mario’s first go-round at being the title character. Released in 1985, just four years after his initial debut in arcade cabinets everywhere in ‘Donkey Kong’.
The industry was in dire straits after the video game crash in 1983. Sega and Nintendo were struggling for games that would renew interest in their consoles; this game did that and more. Cited as the first “killer-app” for the NES, Nintend is said to have sold over 50 million units in the ten years that followed the release. The best selling video game of all time for quite a while, until it was unseated by another Nintendo classic, “Wii Sports”.
“Super Mario Bros.” had 11 unique printings, each differentiated by things like stickers, tabs and text on the box. This example is among the most scarce variants as it was packaged in the span of just a couple of months in 1987; a year where Nintendo sold approximately 1.8 million consoles in North America. In the following four years the Japanese company would sell around 27.54 million units in the region.
This hangtab version only has 12 graded copies in the WATA population report. Among those there are only two graded higher. In total WATA has graded 205 copies of “Super Mario Bros.” which further illustrates the limited supply of this piece.
Earlier in 2021 another copy of “Super Mario Bros.” was sold, but for a more impressive sum. This April sale outstripped the last one by about $260,000; the difference can mostly be explained by this box being from an even more scarce set.
This example is the fourth version of the game that was produced. Known colloquially as “1-code, hangtab”, there are only four graded copies of this print-run, making it a very sought-after collectible. This copy also happened to be the highest graded of those four. Only 8 of the 205 total graded WATA copies received higher than this 9.6, but not a single one of them was printed earlier than our example here.
I am sure you are getting tired of seeing gaming’s favorite plumber on this list. So we will break up the monotony with a fun fact!
Mario was named after Mario Segale, a prominent Seattle real estate developer who was renting out a warehouse to Nintendo of America. Segale angrily came in to speak to president of Nintendo America, Minoru Arakawa, after they had been late on rent. His name was chosen thereafter by employees who witnessed the heated exchange. So next time you are having a hard time thinking of a name for the main character of a creative project, just go for your landlord’s name! It worked for Nintendo!
But seriously, this example is graded lower than the above #7 on our list, but received a worse grade. What gives? Although this copy is stellar in terms of rarity and quality; you will only be able to find 4 copies graded better from earlier productions. There are 58 copies graded above in total, but many of them belong to later print-runs that are far less valuable.
Ah, finally! A new entrant to the list. And one that likely holds a special place in the heart of gamers everywhere. In one fell swoop with ‘The Legend of Zelda’, Nintendo launched a tentpole franchise and created one of the most celebrated games of all time.
Beloved by fans and critics alike, the game went on to sell 6.5 million copies. Further solidifying Nintendo’s brand as the gold standard in video games.
As far as the rarity of this individual example goes it looks like this: there are only 3 sealed copies of this print-run that are known. 120 of the total 186 graded copies out there received above an 8, but nearly all of those copies are from far less desirable production-runs that came in the late-80s/early-90s.
This example is from the same production run as #8 in the list above. This one received quite a bump up in price, around a $225,000 bump to be exact. Likely due to the simple fact of this example receiving a 9.6 to the 9.4 of the other.
This early production-run of the game has seen zero copies graded higher. There are only 8 graded higher in the entire population of 205, none of which are from earlier or scarcer releases.
In the early 1990s during the development of “Star Fox”, legendary Nintendo game developer, Shigeru Miyamoto, imagined how the most recent developments in home console computer chips could lend itself to a 3-D mario game. This idea never came to fruition while working on the SNES, but upon the release of the Nintendo 64 with its more powerful processor and larger controller he was finally able to execute on his vision.
With a team of just fifteen to twenty people Nintendo developed SM64 in just under two years. The game was released alongside the new console to wild success. Nintendo knew they had a hit on their hands–assuming SM64 would be their ‘killer app’ for the console. The marketing budget for the game was set at $20 million and the game went on to do $140 million in gross sales in its first three months in North America. By 2003, 11.9 million units of the game had been sold; Nintendo sold about 32 million units of the N64, so around 37.5% of all consoles had a copy. Not bad!
This example is from the first printing of the game, there are 90 similar copies WATA has graded from this production run. This one however is among the three highest graded copies. It should be said that these three copies are not only the highest graded examples from this production, but from any production. Compared to this example there are zero copies graded higher from any of the 142 sealed copies in the WATA population report.
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This copy of “The Legend of Zelda” is a variant that has seen just 4 WATA graded examples in existence. The sale of the same game above at #5 in the list is part of a different variant, but one that is similarly rare. Though when accounting for the difference in sale price of the two assets we can only assume that this one received $165,000 more due to its grade being one full number higher.
There are no other examples of the original ‘Zelda’ that have come up for public sale like this one. Even with a far lower grade this would still be a sought after piece for any collector in the space. The WATA 9 is simply the cherry on top that propelled this copy to #2 in our list.
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Ahh finally made it! Number 1!
We saw a like-graded copy of this example above at #3 in the list which was sold in September just two months after this $1.5 million sale at Heritage in July of 2021. The two copies are nigh-identical, yet the difference in price represents the most significant disparity in the list among two games.
The frenzied market at the time of these sales likely speaks to the difference, but it is also a good learning on the value of uber-high-quality-grail-objects. When it comes to the best of the best within a certain collectible category it is often very hard to predict the final price when these pieces comes to public sale; bidding action can be frenetic, many times between just two or three deep-pocketed bidders that can send the hammer price soaring over estimate.
Only time will tell whether or not spending 7-figures on a sealed Mario game will have been a profitable endeavor. The current owner may well have severely overpaid, but whether it is a a Mickey Mantle rookie card selling for $12.6 million or a Warhol canvas going for $195, trophy assets are priced the same way everything else in a market economy is–by way of supply and demand. Except in this case there are only three "supply" to go around, and well, lets just say that is a demand curve that is very hard to draw.
Fractional platform, Rally, exited their 'Super Mario Bros.' asset for a price of $2 million. Higher than any asset on this list. At the peak of the market insanity around video games in 2021, Rally was in the right place at the right time. They had the foremost asset in video games: a "WATA 9.8 A+ Hangtab Variant Super Mario Bros.". Zero copies graded higher. The examples that also received a WATA 9.8 A+ seal? From variants that are much more abundant.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
We compiled the all-time auction price records for TCG Cards as of March 27, 2023. Be sure to check back as we update the list as new records are set!
The Japanese Base Set No Rarity Charizard card is an iconic Pokémon treasure, and its depiction of the dragon Pokémon has reached significant cultural relevance outside of the game. This card, depicting maybe the most famous Pokémon of all time—Charizard, is among the earliest and most coveted copies ever produced. Designed by artist Mitsuhiro Arita, the card's beautiful artwork and holographic finish have made Charizard the most iconic character in Pokémon.
Unlike the English ‘Base Set's 1st Edition’ stamp, which is prominently displayed below the left-hand corner of the artwork, the ‘Japanese Base Set No Rarity’ version is differentiated by the absence of the black rarity star on the bottom right corner. Released two years prior to its English counterpart, the Japanese version of the Base Set showcases the beloved dragon against starlit holofoil pattern—as opposed to the dimmer standard holo foil used by Wizards of the Coast in their later base set.
Only 32 copies of this card graded PSA 9, and just 7 have achieved the coveted PSA 10 designation. With its immaculate edges and corners, as well as a near-pristine holographic surface, this copy stands out as a truly exceptional specimen. Further adding to its allure, the case of this card has been hand-signed by the artist. Is there a better duo than the TCG community and signing the case?
Get used to seeing Charizard on this list—I won’t spoil how many times he appears, but this will not be the last time he appears.
Though this card does differ markedly from the above. This is the original printing of the card in English; still using a similar image of Charizard from artist Mitsuhiro Arita, albeit with a slightly less flashy background.
As Charizard cards go, it does not get much better than this one. Beautifully centered, pristine corners and edges, the card is among 123 PSA 10 graded first edition Charizard cards. Which is out of a total of 3,884 total graded; just over 3% of graded first edition Charizards are of similar quality.
Here he is again, what did I tell you? First Edition Charizard cards are going to continue appearing on this list. People like dragons, what can we say!
The card’s equivalent in other categories would be cards like ’86 Fleer Jordan or ’52 Topps Mantle. Iconic pieces of cardboard depicting legendary figures. Though in our case, the legendary figure is fictional.
In 1998, American game publisher Wizards of The Coast was intent on acquiring the rights to Pokémon. During this process they commissioned multiple English mockup cards to show what the franchise’s cards would look like in North America.
Today, four of such cards are known today. Three that feature Blastoise against a non-holo background. And the one we have here, CGC 8.5 graded Holo Blastoise with a blank back. The other three cards had “Magic: The Gathering” Backings (the game that WoTC had been producing for many years prior).
CGC, as well as others in the industry, performed an exhaustive investigation into the voracity of these cards. They determined that all four were printed by WoTC in 1998 to market Pokémon cards to north American consumers.
The value definitely fits in accordance with the rarity and story behind this card. It is possible that this card was the very first Pokemon card printed in English. Before the onset of Pokemon-mania.
Coro Coro, a Japanese Magazine held a comic drawing contest in January 1998, 39 winners were sent copies of the now infamous “Pikachu Illustrator Card”. Designed by Pikachu’s creator, artist Atsuko Nishida, the card has become the holy grail of Pokémon TCG collecting.
This copy is a PSA 7, funnily enough there are 7 similarly graded copies—as well as 9 graded higher. These cards change hands so infrequently that even a PSA 7 coming to auction is a rare event.
Like many others in this list, the value of this card comes from a number of factors. Fans’ love of the games mascot, the extreme scarcity of these cards, as well as the endearing story of 39 children being rewarded for their creations with a unique image of maybe the most celebrated character in the history of animation.
Here he is again, folks. I told you he would be back.
Not much to say that has not been said above on this 1stedition Holo Charizard card. A beautiful example of a legendary character—and so on, and so on.
Charizard has been featured on over 40 different cards from various sets in the series. It is obvious that his fame is on par with the brand itself. Pikachu may be the mascot of Pokemon, but Charizard holds a similar place in the heart of fans and collectors alike.
“The Alpha Black Lotus” is the cream of the crop when it comes to Magic cards. This particular card, graded as PSA 10 Gem Mint, surpassed all other TCG card price records at the time with this eBay sale.
The bidding for this extraordinary card reached incredible heights, eventually selling for an astounding $511,100. The Alpha Black Lotus Masterpiece is a testament to the enduring legacy of Magic: The Gathering as one of the most influential and beloved TCGs of all time.
It bears the signature of the artist who drew the image of the Black Lotus, Christopher Rush. A prolific illustrator within the series, cards with his signature are especially valuable due to his stature in the scene.
Showcasing the elegance and mystique of the Alpha Black Lotus, this PSA 10 Gem Mint card is an unparalleled treasure in the world of TCG. Combining artistry, history, and rarity, the Alpha Black Lotus Masterpiece firmly establishes its position as the fourth most expensive trading card of all time. As a symbol of Magic: The Gathering's enduring impact and appeal, this exceptional card is a prized addition to any collector's portfolio, and an unforgettable piece of TCG history that will continue to fascinate enthusiasts and investors for generations to come.
Behold, the one card that keeps coming back to enchant us all: the Alpha Black Lotus. As if we hadn't gushed enough about this card already, it seems that Magic: The Gathering (MTG) collectors just can't help but dig into their pockets and to show their love for this piece of TCG history.
This particular gem of an Alpha Black Lotus boasts not only a PSA 10 GEM MINT grade but also a signature by the late Christopher Rush on the case, making it an extraordinary piece of MTG memorabilia. It's easy to see why so many desire to possess a fragment of the enchantment that has sparked the creation of numerous other TCGs, most notably the beloved and recurring list favorite, Pokémon.
Feast your eyes on yet another astounding Magic: The Gathering gem – the Artist Proof Black Lotus Limited Edition (Beta). For those of you at home who have been keeping count, this marks the third Black Lotus card on our list, solidifying its status as the magical flower that just keeps on giving.
This card is a so-called artist proof, similar to the blank-backed Blastoise above in the list, it was created so that the team could better understand how the card would come together in a final product. This is to say that the card was not designed for mass printing, making it all the more rare—and therefore all the more valuable. Like others in this list much of the allure of this card comes in the form of a signature, specifically, the signature of Christopher Rush (this time directly on the card, thankfully), the legendary artist responsible for over 100 cards in the MTG series. Graded by CGC with a "blue" label and a NM/Mint+ 8.5 rating, this card is a gorgeous example of the simple beauty that is present in so many MTG card images.
The past three in the list have been the only non Pokemon cards represented here. Obviously MTG is a powerhouse brand in its own right, but to compete with Pokémon they all required an artist signature to push them up to the top. MTG folks cannot seem to get enough of this Christopher Rush guy.
Sign it on the card, sign it on the case, if your name is Christopher Rush, you can sign it any old place!
In the world of Pokémon, there's no denying that Pikachu is the most beloved and iconic mascot. With its rosy cheeks and happy-go-lucky demeanor, Pikachu has captured the hearts of millions. And with this card, it seems Pikachu's charm knows no bounds, propelling it to the heights of Pokémon card value.
The Swirllustrator Pedigree, graded CGC GEM MINT 9.5, is the only card of its kind at this tier, making it a truly exceptional piece. Just like the Artist Proof Black Lotus Limited Edition (Beta) card we mentioned earlier, this Pikachu card comes with a special touch – a "doubleswirl" variant that is somewhere between an intended variation and a misprint, resulting in a unique alignment of the foil background. If you inspect the left of the image you will see a cluster of stars (or a swirl) that does not appear in standard illustrator Pikachu cards. The CGC has even certified "The Swirllustrator" as the official pedigree of the card, further amplifying its rarity and appeal.
As you may recall, another example of the Illustrator Pikachu card made an appearance earlier on this list. This specific card, however, stands out not only for its unique double swirl but also due to its grade being a CGC 9.5—nearly perfect. This card perfectly captures the spirit of the Pokémon franchise and the enduring resonance of its most iconic character.
Whether you're an MTG fan with an appreciation for Christopher Rush's signed creations or a die-hard Pokémon fan on a mission to catch 'em all, one universal truth stands: the fascination with trading cards transcends the confines of their respective games and unites collectors in their shared pursuit of exceptional and eye-catching treasures.
Private sales usually account for the highest end of sales in every collectible category, but since these sales are usually unconfirmed without hard data, we elected to leave them off of the main list.
The purchase of this card in particular was documented by renowned youtuber and less-renowned boxer, Logan Paul. If you are curious as to how he obtained this card. Look no further.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
We compiled the all-time auction price records for sports cards as of February 16th, 2023. Be sure to check back as we update the list as new records are set!
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The ’52 Topps Mickey Mantle card is the crown jewel of the Post-War era; it features a striking portrait of the player pensively looking into the distance. It is not the oldest card and it does not depict a player that regularly finds himself coming out on top of G.O.A.T. arguments—so why is it that this card receives so much love? The beautiful profile showing off Mantle’s Hollywood looks, the sky-blue background, the star of the best team in baseball, and a little mishap at Topps that found these cards at the bottom of the Hudson (allegedly) seriously deflating their supply. All factors in the value of cards like this one.
This example is one of the six highest graded copies among the 1,500 submissions PSA has graded—only three of which were graded higher. Only the highest quality and best maintained cards from this era will fetch such prices. At a PSA 9, this card cannot get much better.
Tom Brady was selected in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft and spent his rookie season as a second-string quarterback under Drew Bledsoe. Despite this inauspicious start, he went on to become the greatest player in NFL history and is considered by many to be the best draft pick of all time. Throughout his illustrious 20-year career, he won seven Super Bowls and numerous MVP awards (5x SB and 3x regular season, but who is counting). His 2000 Panini Contenders Autograph rookie card is regarded as one of the great objects in the hobby, a symbol of his unparalleled career and status as a living legend.
This card, an extremely rare PSA 10 Auto 10, is one of two like graded examples in the world. Out of the more than 500 graded copies of Tom Brady’s rookie card it does not get better than this one.
He was bound to appear again in this list, but so quickly? There is a joke in here somewhere about TB12’s double retirement, but we will leave that be for now.
Sold just months prior to the above Tom Brady card, this example received a full grade less from Beckett Grading Services (BGS) instead of PSA. Even when considering those marks against it, the card sold for $200,000 more! Likely explained by the sports card fervor that was striking the market at the time. It still illustrates that type of the demand that exists for uber-high-quality rookie cards for the G.O.A.T.
The lone basketball player on the list, Luka Doncic has garnered more praise in the first few years of his career than nearly any player before. It did not take long for Luka to display his basketball skill—averaging 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists in his rookie season. He was voted rookie of the year and has only gone on to exceed expectations in the following seasons. He is performing at the highest level in all aspects of the game. Evidenced by his current 10th all-time ranking in number of triple-doubles. As a 23-year old.
The amount of hype for Doncic is surely baked into the price of this card, but aside from his accomplishments on the court this piece has significant appeal from a rarity and aesthetics perspective. Firstly, it is a 1/1, there is not another like this card. Signed by the player, but also displaying the coveted “Logoman”. Graded a BGS 9, the card is made even more valuable by the quality of its printing. It is beautifully centered—a perfect 10 in the sub-category. It isn’t perfect, but its one-of-a-kind nature propels its value well past the standard price another BGS 9 card would fetch.
Printed between 1909 and 1911, the T206 series is among the most celebrated sets in the hobby. Still recognized names like Ty Cobb and Cy Young populate the list of players represented in the set. Wagner’s card carries quite some more weight due to the story behind it. During the production run the player refused to allow production of the card; some argue it was due to his being against children buying cigarette packs, others claim it was due to Wagner wanting more compensation from the American Tobacco Company. Either way the effect it had on supply is quite noticeable when compared to the other cards in the set.
This example is the most impressive T206 Honus Wagner card known to grading firms. At SGC 5, it is far from perfect. The portrait of the player does happen to be in great condition. An image from more than 100 years ago being this sharp is a testament to the quality of collector this card has had over its life. The remaining factors of the card are of below-average quality: corners are frayed and beat up, the centering is nowhere close to 50/50, and the edges are uneven at best. Although compared to similar era cards, you will not find much better than this.
Same card as above, with a lower grade—so how does it sell for more? Two things: A great story about one of our nation’s great sitcom stars and about six years’ worth of time and appreciation.
Charlie Sheen may be remembered now more for his time on Two and a Half Men or maybe for one of his many off-screen…antics? Moving past that for now, Sheen was on what can only be described as a hot streak in the late 80s; appearing in high-grossing films like Platoon, Wall Street, and Major League. He parlayed these Hollywood pay-checks into a number of pieces of classic cardboard.
This T206 Honus Wagner was one such piece of cardboard, he purchased it for $225,000 and proceeded to loan it to a newly opened Times Square Sports Bar (novel idea, we know). The bar displayed several pieces of sports memorabilia—this card being the most valuable among them. Employees of the aptly named “All-Star Café” conspired to steal the card and replace it with a fake. They sold the real card for a paltry $18,000. After a few flips in the following years, it finally ended up on the auction block at Mile High placing it firmly in the top ten sales between two other T206 Honus Wagners.
Another T206 Honus, but this copy is graded just barely higher at PSA GD 2. The fact that Wagner cards still exist after being printed over 120 years ago is something to behold. Among the forty or so that exist this card received a higher grade than half of them. It really says something about the scarcity of this card when grades like 1 and 2 are seen topping the price charts.
Mike Trout’s superlative individual career coincides with a beautiful, BGS MINT 9 graded, one of one card from his 2009 rookie year to make for one of the most valuable cards in history. Most baseball cards on this list are of players who made their debut 100+ years ago—this one is of one who is still playing right now, so what gives?
Older baseball cards are valuable for similar reasons to this one, namely rarity. Although when it comes to T206 Wagner cards, there are approximately 50 of them. When it comes to this Trout card, there is only one.
Not to mention the fact that this card is beautiful. Graded a BGS 9 with a 10 for Trout’s autograph, it did not receive a subgrade in any category below 9. Not only was this the only card of its kind made, it was also produced and maintained with extreme care. Leading to this extreme valuation.
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Ahh! Back to our boy Honus! What else to say about this card. As you can tell when ever even relatively low graded T206 Wagner’s come up for sale they exhibit extreme demand. This card graded an SGC VG 3 is among the best of the best. Only four such examples can be found graded higher.
Even without knowing the grade, the naked-eye is all that is needed to witness the quality of this example. The portrait of Honus is only interrupted by a few small imperfections and the card is centered extremely well for a T206. The corners and edges are definitely worse for wear, but when considering the over 120-year-age of the piece, collectors have been known to be forgiving.
It is only fitting that the first and last on the list are of the ’52 Topps Mickey Mantle #311. This example received a half grade higher than the copy in the tenth spot, but almost a $10 million premium over it in price. I won’t regale you with details of Mantle’s illustrious career with the Yankees or with how supply of these cards is limited due to a print run of them being supposedly dumped into the Hudson. This card has somehow an even more interesting story than the average ’52 Mantle.
“The Rosen Find” is a bit of hobby lore that is the stuff of dreams for enterprising dealers and collectors. Hobby pioneer Al Rosen—self-proclaimed “Mr.Mint”—received a call from a Boston man claiming to have a collection of high-numbered 1952 Topps cards. The story was that his father was a delivery driver for Topps and when the distribution of these cards was axed, they ended up sitting in his basement for the next 31 years.
When Rosen went to go see the cards a week later he stumbled into what might be the best score in the history of the hobby. Seventy-Five Mickey Mantle #311 cards. This example was then sold off to Anthony Giordano for $50,000 in 1991. Implying an eye-popping 19.53% CAGR before fees.
Although there are three PSA GEM-MT 10 graded copies of the card, they have never shown up at auction. It is impossible to say if they ever will, or if their quality is noticeable better than this one. When it comes to ones that have come to auction, it does not get any better than “The Rosen Find”.
This card was sold in a deal brokered by Goldin in August of 2022. A year after the SGC VG 3 copy was sold for $6,606,296 in August of 2021. Demand for T206 Honus cards borders on the incomprehensible. Just the rarity of the card is enough to propel its record to new heights. High grades relative to the population alter the valuation, but when it comes to Honus it seems that collectors are buying the card as opposed to buying the grade.
January of 2021 found this copy in a sale brokered by PWCC. Thecopy is one of 6 examples graded PSA 9 (out of a total 1,897) and is one of the most beautiful examples of the golden age icon.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
We compiled the all-time auction price records for sports memorabilia as of March 13th, 2023. Be sure to check back as we update the list as new records are set!
Only three players in the history of the NBA have achieved back to back finals MVPs. Bill Russell (for whom the trophy is now named), Michael Jordan, and Lebron James.
Few players have been so lauded by fans prior to their entry into the league. While it is true that every few years the sports press likes to hype up transcendently talented high-school athletes for the sake of clicks and engagement; turns out, this was not one of those times. Describing James as, “The Chosen One”, ended up not being even slightly hyperbolic in this case.
After winning his first NBA title in 5 games with the Heat in 2011-12, we arrived at what many agree to be Lebron’s greatest season. There is endless evidence that points to this season exhibiting a Lebron James at the peak of his powers: going 27/8/7, shooting 56.5% from the field, MVP (Finals and Regular season), 2nd only to Marc Gasol in defensive player of the year voting, 27 game winning streak, the list goes on.
After fighting his way through 6 games against the San Antonio Spurs, Lebron took it upon himself to bring his team the championship. In an all time great finals performance LBJ scored 37 points wearing this jersey, a physical piece of evidence symbolizing Lebron’s indisputable greatness.
When it comes to sports, it isn’t often that the genesis of a game is so well documented. The popular American sports of today have their history rooted in some other popular game: Baseball to Cricket, (American) Football to….Football, Hockey to Lacrosse. All to varying degrees of course, but Naismith’s inspiration was a medieval children’s game known as ‘Duck on a Rock’, wherein kids would throw rocks at a larger rock, guarded by other children, in order to knock it down. One could see why this game didn’t really have the legs for massive adoption; sadly the youth of today has been deprived of the joy that can only be attained by clocking your class mates with a nice rock. Dr. Naismith surely deserves points for creativity here though.
When assigned the age old task of keeping kids entertained while cooped up inside over the winter, Naismith’s solution came down in a the form of a new game, Basketball. His thirteen rules, originally thumb-tacked to a bulletin board in a New England gym, are the genesis of the international phenomenon that is Basket Ball; you read that right, Naismith originally spelled it as two words.
Though the sport has changed drastically since its birth—namely with the advent of more and more physical contact which was explicitly outlawed in the original rules—its founding document is not too far off of what we call basketball today. Although we are curious how Naismith would feel about moving the three point line or where he lands on the MJ vs. Lebron debate.
In a baseball world that was rife with match-fixing scandals, the league needed a shot in the arm to get fans excited about the game again. Modern baseball fans can surely understand waning popularity and mistrust in league officials to run a fair and just game. At the time this problem was partially solved by the rise of a young player named George Herman “Babe” Ruth; “The Sultan of Swat”, “The King of Crash”, “The Colossus of Clout”, “THE GREAT BAMBINO”. You get it, you’ve seen Sandlot.
After starting his career in the majors as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox in 1914, he won three World Series with the club until his sale to New York in 1920. Upon his trade he transitioned into a power-hitting right-fielder, marking the beginning of what we now call the “live-ball era”. So named due to its contrast to the “dead-ball era” of the decade prior, in which fans witnessed low scoring games and a tragic dearth of dingers.
Ruth almost single-handedly brought baseball back to its height. Quality jersey’s from this era of baseball are rare as it is, but ones worn by Babe himself are even scarcer; some say less than 5 in this kind of quality are known. This jersey is not only one of the great pieces of sports memorabilia, but of historical memorabilia at large.
Tiger Woods is an icon in the world of golf, leaving an indelible mark on the sport with his legendary skill, resilience, and magnetic charisma. His career is only comparable to the handful of athletes who grace fans with nigh supernatural abilities in their respective games.
At the turn of the millennium, the golf world witnessed a remarkable feat, now known as the "Tiger Slam." Between 2000 and 2001, Tiger Woods captured four consecutive Major Championship titles, demonstrating his prowess and securing his place in golf history. The clubs he used during this incredible run are among the great pieces in all of collecting, representing not only the pinnacle of Woods' career but also an unforgettable moment in golf.
The Tiger Slam irons and wedges, including 2-PW Titleist Forged irons and two custom Vokey wedges, are a rare and invaluable piece of sports memorabilia. The wear mark on the face of the 8 iron is a testament to the dedication that went into achieving the Tiger Slam. These clubs come with substantial provenance documentation, backed by affidavits and declarations from Titleist executives who witnessed the exchange of these clubs and even a passed polygraph test. Art collectors eat your heart out; try asking for affidavits and polygraphs when you’re buying a Monet.
Golf enthusiasts and collectors alike can appreciate the significance and rarity of these clubs, as they symbolize the heights of sporting achievement. Their worth extends beyond their monetary value, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of Tiger Woods and his unmatched impact on the world of golf.
Once more, Babe Ruth steals the spotlight on our list, this time with a road jersey dating from 1928-30. It's no wonder that the Bambino's legacy on this list mirrors his unforgettable impact on the field during his prime.
With only a handful of Babe Ruth jerseys in existence, this particular piece is a gem from the golden era of his storied career. The grey flannel body features the original "Yankees" team name across the front in blue applied lettering, the Spalding manufacturer's label, and the original linen drawstrings. The evident wear on the jersey, including the vestiges of a numeral "3" on the back, all playing a part in the authenticity of the jersey, and therefore its value.
While some may argue about the precise dating of this jersey, its importance is undeniable. From the 1928 World Series to Babe's 500th Home Run, this jersey represents an era of historic moments and a wealth of home runs; while we cannot say for sure if he had this one on when he smacked the 500th, we also cannot say for sure that he was not wearing it. As one of the most significant sports artifacts ever sold at public auction, it's only fitting that Babe Ruth makes a double appearance on our list. After all, there was, and always will be, only one Babe Ruth.
On April 23, 2008, during Game 2 of the Western Conference First Round against the Denver Nuggets, Kobe scored a crucial 3-pointer, securing a 14-point lead for the Lakers. The photos capturing his celebratory scream have become some of the most iconic images of the legendary athlete. This moment of pure passion inspired artists the world over, leading to the jersey being featured on countless murals and magazine covers. In California alone, over 15 murals showcase Kobe in this jersey, often accompanied by wings, American flags, and snakes (Black Mamba snakes to be specific).
LeBron James wore a t-shirt featuring this jersey during Game 4 of the 2020 NBA Finals, the series where Lebron would go on to win a ring with Kobe’s former franchise. This jersey has permeated the global popular zeitgeist, becoming synonymous with "The Mamba Mentality."
The jersey was worn by Kobe at the height of his career during his only MVP season, for an impressive 25 games over eight months. It was worn during five preseason games, 14 regular-season games, and six playoff games, with Kobe scoring 645 points in this jersey. This level of long-term, heavy wear is rare in sports memorabilia, as many modern items are worn for just one game. This jersey was the only gold one Kobe wore in the 2008 NBA Playoffs, leading to the 2008 NBA Finals, and marked his first advancement to the NBA Finals since Shaquille O'Neal's departure from the Lakers.
Kobe's global reach transcended basketball, touching the lives of various athletes and influencing entire teams. His unrelenting drive and commitment to excellence has left a mark on sports history, the Mamba mentality continues to inspire generations of fans and athletes.
This iconic belt, emblematic of Muhammad Ali's astonishing triumph over George Foreman in the unforgettable "Rumble in the Jungle," is likely the most powerful piece of boxing memorabilia in existence. This piece represents Ali's unwavering determination and strength as he reclaimed his title after being stripped of it in 1967 due to his refusal to participate in the Vietnam War draft.
The "Rumble in the Jungle" took place on October 30, 1974, in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). The fight was a monumental event, with Ali utilizing his now famous "rope-a-dope" strategy to tire Foreman before delivering a powerful knockout punch in the eighth round. This victory marked the beginning of Ali's reign as the WBC Heavyweight Champion, which lasted until his loss to Leon Spinks four years later.
This WBC Heavyweight Championship belt is one of only two known to exist, with the other residing in a private collection. It features a gold-colored metal central plate with enamel detailing of swirling national flags, which has mostly chipped away over the decades.
The belt's historical significance is immense, as it not only represents Ali's exceptional athletic achievement but also his relentless pursuit of justice, and his unwavering stance on race, religion, and peace. This invaluable artifact of the American experience is a testament to the impact of one of the most consequential lives in not only sports history, but American history as well.
Pierre de Coubertin, a French aristocrat, delivered a speech in 1892 putting forth his vision for the revival of the ancient Olympic games. Coubertin argued that new ideas, technologies, and systems were driving human progress and innovation to unprecedented heights. And that transforming athletics from a strictly military pursuit to one of individual excellence would benefit both athlete and society as a whole.
Two years after giving the speech, Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee, and the modern Olympic Games debuted in Athens in 1896. In his manifesto, Coubertin highlighted the power of international competition in bringing people together, overcoming differences, and fostering democracy. The Olympics have persisted through two world wars and countless other far-reaching conflicts—so it would seem that Pierre was onto something.
The sale of the original 1892 manuscript over 100 years since its delivery, crystallizes Coubertin’s vision. Representing the enduring belief that sporting is one of the few ways we have to embrace our shared humanity.
In the world of soccer, few names carry the same reverence as Diego Maradona, and it is no surprise that a jersey worn by the Argentine during the 1986 World Cup Quarterfinals would be the first soccer-related item to appear on this list. Maradona's impact on the game and sports more broadly is undeniable, with his extraordinary skill, creativity, and passion for the game inspiring generations of fans and players alike.
During the 1986 World Cup, Maradona's performance in the match between Argentina and England transcended the game itself, becoming a symbol of national pride and a moment of catharsis following the bitter conflict between the two countries in the Falkland Islands War just a few years prior. Maradona scored two of the most memorable goals in soccer history during that match: "The Hand of God" and the "Goal of the Century." The latter was even voted as the greatest goal of all time in a 2002 FIFA poll.
The journey of Maradona's historic jersey into the hands of its consignor, England midfielder Steve Hodge, is a testament to the mutual respect between both players. Following the match, Hodge, who had inadvertently set up Maradona's "Hand of God" goal, took the opportunity to ask for a shirt swap. Initially thinking it was a lost cause due to Maradona being mobbed by teammates directly after the game, Hodge unexpectedly encountered Maradona again outside his locker room. Since they did not have a tongue in common, Hodges simply gave his own shirt a tug to signal interest in the swap, leading to the legendary exchange.
The "Last Dance" season of Michael Jordan in the 1998 NBA Finals remains an unforgettable moment in sports history, as it captivated viewers worldwide when the Bulls faced a hostile Utah crowd on June 3rd, 1998. The atmosphere was so fraught that Jordan did not allow his own children to attend the game. Michael was calm as ever though, grooving out on the bus before the storied game.
The 1998 NBA Finals marked Jordan's final season with the Chicago Bulls, which is fondly remembered as "The Last Dance." This period in Jordan's career is celebrated as the pinnacle of his athletic performance and the culmination of his team's legendary achievements. The 1998 NBA Finals also showcased Jordan's unassailable competitive spirit, as he led the Bulls to their sixth NBA Championship and earned his sixth Finals MVP award.
Jordan's iconic red away jersey from Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals is a highly sought-after artifact, a symbol of his 6 championships with the storied franchise. Collectors and enthusiasts alike recognize the immense significance and rarity of this piece, making it a prized possession for anyone fortunate enough to acquire it.
The sale of this jersey not only reflects the enduring impact of Michael Jordan's achievements but also highlights the reverence that fans worldwide continue to hold for the greatest of all time.
In August of 2021 Hunt Auctions sold this jersey in a private sale for a price of more than $4.2 million. Our list is comprised only of public auction records, so it was not included here; if it had it would have occupied the 9th spot. The private market for sports memorabilia is robust and facilitates many transactions at the high end of the market. We thought it better for our list to only be made up of prices that are publicly backed.
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Disclaimer: You understand that by reading Altan Insights, you are not receiving financial advice. No content published here constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. You further understand that the author(s) are not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security, transaction, or investment strategy. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether an investment, security or strategy, or any other product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal financial situation. Please speak with a financial advisor to understand if the risks inherent in trading are appropriate for you. Trade at your own risk.
All information provided by Altan Insights is impersonal and not tailored to the needs of any person, entity or group of persons. Past performance of an index or asset is not an indication or guarantee of future results.
