The Lelands 2024 Winter Classic Auction recently drew to a close, leaving collectors and sports enthusiasts in awe with its impressive sales of iconic sports memorabilia. Among the standout items was a 1960 game-worn Roberto Clemente jersey, which fetched a staggering $256,714. This vest-style road flannel, donned during a remarkable year for the legendary Clemente, earned a remarkable grade from SGC, underscoring its exceptional quality and remarkable preservation.
Not to be outdone, a Ted Williams jersey from his extraordinary 1942 season commanded a noteworthy $191,563. This unique piece, presented as a gift to a devoted fan of Fenway Park and modified for a superior fit, stands as the sole known jersey from Williams’ 1942 campaign, making it a highly sought-after treasure for collectors. Additionally, a Williams warm-up jacket from the 1940s changed hands for $40,920, further enhancing the allure of the auction.
A baseball signed by Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, a cherished family heirloom, attracted bids reaching $102,694. This immaculate item also bore the signatures of Al Simmons and George Earnshaw. A 1920s signed photo featuring Ruth and Lou Gehrig, along with a 1949 Jackie Robinson card boasting a PSA grade of 9 for its autograph, fetched impressive sums of $131,066 and $85,772, respectively.
One of the auction’s most remarkable pieces was a 1997-98 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan card. Graded 8 by PSA, this rare card ignited an intense bidding war, culminating in a sale price of $232,847, marking a significant occasion in the auction realm for PMG Championship cards.
The auction also shone a spotlight on unopened sports memorabilia, such as a 1961 Fleer Baseball Greats box and a 1974 O-Pee-Chee Baseball box, alongside a 1991 Kentucky Derby owner’s trophy that commanded a price of $165,479.
Game-worn items were prominently featured, with a Sidney Crosby rookie season jersey, as well as memorabilia from Lynn Swann, Brian Leetch, and Jerry Lucas, drawing significant interest and commanding high bids, further adding to the excitement of the auction.