In the world of sports card collecting, PWCC Marketplace has made waves once again with their November Premier Auction. This time, it was a 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies edition featuring the basketball legend Michael Jordan that stole the show, selling for an incredible six-figure sum of $216,000. This sale not only set a new record for this particular parallel card, but it also ranks as the second most expensive Star Rubies card ever sold.
The 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies card series holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. This release was the final Skybox set to showcase Jordan before his retirement in 1998, making the cards from this set even more valuable. What sets this series apart is its introduction of serial-numbered cards, creating rarity and desirability among collectors. The Star Rubies edition, along with other sought-after variations such as Skybox’s Precious Metal Gems, has been a driving force in making these cards highly coveted.
The card’s impressive design, featuring intricate foil details and an edge-to-edge layout, adds to its appeal. However, it also means that these cards are more susceptible to wear and damage over time. This vulnerability further boosts their rarity, making well-preserved cards like this one even more valuable. The Michael Jordan card that set the new record received a PSA 7 grade, placing it in the Pop 4 category. In other words, only four cards of this specific type have received the same grade, with only five cards graded higher.
But the November Premier Auction didn’t stop there. Other notable collectibles reached new heights in terms of prices achieved. A PSA 1 (MC) graded 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 card, despite its less-than-perfect condition, fetched an impressive $35,400. This shows the enduring appeal of iconic baseball legends and their cards, regardless of their condition.
Another record was set with the sale of a Kobe Bryant 1999 Upper Deck Game Jerseys patch auto card, which sold for $32,700. Bryant’s legacy as one of basketball’s most beloved and iconic players continues to resonate with collectors. The combination of his autograph and a game-worn patch adds an extra layer of rarity and value to the card.
In the realm of motorsports, a 2020 Topps Dynasty F1 card featuring Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas garnered considerable attention, ultimately selling for $20,400. As Formula 1 becomes increasingly popular among collectors, cards featuring top drivers like Hamilton and Bottas gain traction in the market.
Overall, PWCC Marketplace’s November Premier Auction showcased the enduring passion and growing interest in sports card collecting. The record-breaking sale of the 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies Michael Jordan card once again highlights the importance of rarity, condition, and the allure of iconic athletes in driving the value of these collectibles. As the market continues to evolve and new records are set, collectors around the world eagerly anticipate what future auctions will bring.
