The Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction recently concluded, leaving collectors and sports enthusiasts in awe of the remarkable sales achieved. Among the standout items were pieces of iconic sports memorabilia, with a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey stealing the spotlight by fetching an impressive $256,714. This vest-style road flannel, worn during Clemente’s standout year, not only showcased its historical significance but also received an outstanding grade from SGC, attesting to its exceptional quality and preservation.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his exceptional 1942 season also commanded attention, achieving a substantial sale price of $191,563. This unique piece, gifted to a devoted Fenway Park fan and later altered for a better fit, stands as the only known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a significant discovery for avid collectors. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s added to the auction’s allure by selling for $40,920, further solidifying the appeal of Williams’ memorabilia among enthusiasts.
A baseball bearing the signatures of Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, cherished as a family heirloom, drew considerable interest during the auction, with bids reaching up to $102,694. This pristine item also featured autographs from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, adding to its historical value and allure. Moreover, a 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig, along with a 1949 Jackie Robinson card boasting a PSA grade of 9 autograph, sold for $131,066 and $85,772, respectively, showcasing the enduring appeal of baseball legends in the collectibles market.
A true highlight of the auction was the presence of a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA. This rare and coveted item sparked an intense bidding war that culminated in a staggering sale price of $232,847, underscoring the significant impact of PMG Championship cards in the auction market.
The event also featured notable unopened sports memorabilia, such as a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, alongside a prestigious item like a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy, which garnered a respectable $165,479 during the auction, attracting the attention of avid collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Game-worn items were also in the spotlight, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from legendary athletes like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas drawing considerable interest and commanding high bids, further solidifying the diverse and coveted offerings of the Lelands Winter Classic Auction.