Fanatics and Sotheby’s have joined forces once again to bring collectors and enthusiasts a thrilling opportunity with their upcoming auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.” Building on the incredible success of their previous collaboration, known as “Holy Grails,” this auction is set to be a groundbreaking event in the world of sports card collecting. Scheduled to go live on December 16th, the anticipation surrounding this event is palpable.
The “Holy Grails” auction earlier this summer set the stage for what promises to be an even more spectacular event. With sales totaling over $7 million from just 33 cards, the auction saw remarkable transactions that captured the attention of the market. Notable sales included a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 fetching $840,000, a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph selling for $432,000, and a Shohei Ohtani card breaking records at $336,000. This auction solidified the partnership between Fanatics and Sotheby’s as a dominant force in the collectibles industry.
The focus of the upcoming auction will be on the highly coveted Upper Deck Exquisite cards, which have become synonymous with luxury and rarity in the sports card realm. The Exquisite line set new standards in the industry with its premium materials, innovative designs, and sought-after Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs). The “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” will feature 11 exceptionally rare cards, including individual masterpieces of LeBron James and a triple Logoman card featuring Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman celebrating the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty. These cards are revered not just as collectibles but as true works of art, blending scarcity, player significance, and historical importance.
The legacy of the Exquisite collection dates back to its inception, where it was a pioneering move in the sports card landscape. Karvin Cheung, the visionary behind the product line, introduced the concept of high-end RPAs at price points that were previously unheard of. Although initially met with skepticism, Exquisite cards eventually became the pinnacle of premium sports cards, commanding staggering prices that reflect their cultural and collectible value in today’s market.
Mark your calendars for December 16th, when the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction will captivate audiences worldwide. With Sotheby’s reputation for curating fine collectibles and the allure of these rare cards, this auction is poised to define new standards in the sports card market. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or simply a fan, this event is not one to be missed. Get ready to witness history in the making as some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever produced go under the hammer.
