The November Premier Auction at PWCC Marketplace has once again made headlines with a record-breaking sale of a Michael Jordan card. This time, it was the highly sought-after 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies edition that caught the attention of collectors, fetching an impressive six-figure sum of $216,000.
The 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies card featuring basketball legend Michael Jordan is a rare find in the card collecting world. This particular parallel card, limited to just 50 copies, now ranks as the second most expensive Star Rubies card ever sold. The series, known for introducing serial-numbered cards to collectors, has created rarity within the hobby, with the Star Rubies and other coveted cards like Skybox’s Precious Metal Gems leading the way.
What makes the 1998 release even more special is that it was the final Skybox set to showcase Michael Jordan before his 1998 retirement. This adds to the value and desirability of cards from this set, especially ones featuring the iconic basketball superstar. The intricate foil details and edge-to-edge design of the cards make them particularly prone to wear, which only heightens their rarity and appeal to collectors.
The record-setting Jordan card, which received a PSA 7 grade, is a Pop 4. This means that only four cards of this specific type have received the same grade, making it a highly exclusive and sought-after piece. There are only five other cards graded higher, further solidifying its rarity and value in the market.
In addition to the record-setting Michael Jordan card, several other collectibles also reached new heights at the PWCC auction. A PSA 1 (MC) graded 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 card, despite its less-than-perfect condition, sold for an impressive $35,400. This shows the enduring popularity of iconic baseball cards, even in varying conditions.
Another record was set with a Kobe Bryant 1999 Upper Deck Game Jerseys patch auto card, which fetched $32,700. As one of basketball’s most beloved and tragic figures, Kobe Bryant’s memorabilia continues to be highly sought after by fans and collectors alike.
The auction also saw a 2020 Topps Dynasty F1 card featuring Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas sell for $20,400. This card showcases the excitement and growing popularity of Formula 1 racing, as collectors seek to own a piece of the sport’s history.
Overall, the PWCC November Premier Auction proved once again why it is a must-watch event for collectors and enthusiasts. From record-breaking Michael Jordan cards to iconic pieces of baseball and basketball memorabilia, the auction showcased the enduring appeal and ever-increasing value of collectible cards in the market.
