Fanatics and Sotheby’s are joining forces once again to unveil the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction, showcasing some of the most sought-after sports cards globally. Following the massive success of their initial collaboration, the duo is gearing up to launch their second high-profile auction featuring rare and historic Upper Deck Exquisite cards, promising collectors an unforgettable experience.
Remember the groundbreaking “Holy Grails” auction that swept the sports collectibles market by storm over the summer? The first partnership between Fanatics and Sotheby’s raked in over $7 million from the sale of just 33 cards. Among the highlights were the jaw-dropping sales of a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 for $840,000, a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph fetching $432,000, and a then-record-setting Shohei Ohtani card sold for $336,000.
While the Ohtani record has been overshadowed since, the initial auction set an impressive standard, showcasing the escalating demand for premium sports cards and cementing the Fanatics-Sotheby’s alliance as a dominant force in the industry.
Focused exclusively on cards from Upper Deck’s renowned Exquisite line, the upcoming “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction is set to captivate enthusiasts with its display of 11 incredibly rare cards. Within this collection are individual LeBron James masterpieces and a triple Logoman card featuring Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman—an homage to the Chicago Bulls’ iconic dynasty.
More than mere trading cards, these pieces are revered as works of art, blending rarity, player significance, and historical value into each card.
The legacy of the Exquisite product line is nothing short of legendary. At its inception, Upper Deck’s Exquisite line, spearheaded by Karvin Cheung, challenged conventions by introducing high-end RPAs at unprecedented price points. Despite initial skepticism, Exquisite eventually emerged as the gold standard for premium sports cards, commanding astronomical prices that reflect their cultural and collectible importance today.
Scheduled for December 16th, the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is primed to draw global attention from collectors, investors, and sports fans alike. With its unparalleled selection and Sotheby’s esteemed reputation for presenting exquisite collectibles, this auction has the potential to establish new milestones in the sports card market.
Make sure to mark your calendars for this exclusive auction. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness (or even participate in) the sale of some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever produced.