The Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction undoubtedly set the stage for an impressive display of sports memorabilia, with iconic pieces fetching extraordinary prices. Among the standout items was a game-worn 1960 Roberto Clemente jersey that commanded a staggering $256,714. This road flannel, showcasing Clemente’s talent during a remarkable season, received high praise from SGC for its exceptional quality and preservation.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his stellar 1942 season captured the attention of bidders, closing at $191,563. A rare find, this jersey was gifted to a loyal Fenway Park fan and later altered for a better fit, making it the sole known jersey from Williams’ impressive 1942 campaign, a treasure for collectors. Furthermore, a 1940s Williams warm-up jacket drew significant interest, selling for $40,920 and adding to the auction’s appeal.
One of the most captivating items up for bidding was a baseball bearing the signatures of Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, a cherished heirloom that reached bids as high as $102,694. This immaculate piece also featured autographs from Al Simmons and George Earnshaw. Additionally, a 1920s photo signed by Ruth and Lou Gehrig secured $131,066, while a 1949 Jackie Robinson card with a PSA autograph grade of 9 fetched $85,772.
A highlight of the auction was the 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card, graded an 8 by PSA. This rare card ignited a heated bidding war, culminating in a remarkable sale of $232,847, marking a significant moment in the auction market for PMG Championship cards.
In addition to these impressive sales, the auction featured unopened sports memorabilia such as a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, with a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy commanding $165,479.
Game-worn items were also in the spotlight, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey and memorabilia from sports legends like Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas attracting substantial interest and commanding high bids. The Lelands Winter Classic Auction truly showcased the allure of sports memorabilia and the passion of collectors from around the world.