The sports memorabilia world was set ablaze as the Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction came to an exhilarating close, showcasing a plethora of iconic items that left collectors and enthusiasts in awe. Headlining the auction were rare pieces connected to baseball legends Roberto Clemente and Ted Williams, as well as a stunning array of other treasures that commanded top dollar.
A true gem of the auction was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, crafted in a stylish vest-style road flannel worn during one of Clemente’s standout seasons. The impressive jersey, which fetched an astonishing $256,714, received a remarkable grade from SGC, solidifying its status as a premium collectible appreciated for its quality and meticulous preservation.
Not to be outshone, a Ted Williams jersey hailing from his exceptional 1942 season stole the spotlight, garnering an impressive $191,563. This unique piece, gifted to a devoted Fenway Park fan and expertly altered for a better fit, stands as the lone jersey known to exist from Williams’ remarkable 1942 campaign, making it a coveted find for collectors. Furthermore, a 1940s Williams warm-up jacket commanded a notable $40,920, further enhancing the auction’s appeal.
A baseball graced by the signatures of Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, cherished as a long-held family heirloom, ignited fierce bidding wars, reaching an impressive sum of $102,694. This pristine artifact also bore the autographs of Al Simmons and George Earnshaw, adding to its allure. Additionally, a 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig and a 1949 Jackie Robinson card boasting a PSA grade of 9 autograph fetched $131,066 and $85,772, respectively, further solidifying the auction’s success.
Standing out amidst the vast array of offerings was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded 8 by PSA. This rare and coveted item sparked intense bidding competition and ultimately sold for a staggering $232,847, marking a significant milestone in the auction market for PMG Championship cards.
Beyond individual items, the auction also featured an array of unopened sports memorabilia, including a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box, a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, and a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy that commanded a remarkable $165,479.
Game-worn memorabilia took center stage, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and items from iconic figures like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas drawing substantial interest and commanding impressive bids. The Lelands Winter Classic Auction truly lived up to its name, offering an exquisite showcase of rare and coveted sports memorabilia that captivated bidders and spectators alike.
