PWCC Marketplace’s November Premier Auction witnessed another historic moment in the world of sports card collecting with the sale of a 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies edition card featuring basketball legend Michael Jordan. This highly sought-after card was snapped up for an impressive six-figure sum of $216,000, setting a new record for this particular parallel card.
The 1998 Skybox Premium Stars Rubies card has gained significant popularity amongst collectors due to its limited production run of just 50 cards. This rarity, combined with the iconic status of Michael Jordan, has driven the card’s value to new heights. In fact, this sale now ranks as the second most expensive Star Rubies card ever sold. The card series, known for introducing serial-numbered cards to collectors, has played a crucial role in creating rarity within the hobby, with the Star Rubies and other similar releases like Skybox’s Precious Metal Gems leading the way.
What makes the 1998 release truly special is that it was the final Skybox set to showcase Michael Jordan before his retirement in 1998. This factor adds a layer of historical significance to the card, making it even more desirable amongst collectors. The card’s intricate foil details and edge-to-edge design make them especially prone to wear, further increasing their rarity.
The record-setting Michael Jordan card was given a PSA 7 grade, indicating its excellent condition. This specific card received a Pop 4 grade, meaning that only four cards of this type have received this grade, with just five others graded higher. These low population numbers add to the exclusivity and desirability of the card among collectors.
In addition to the record-breaking sale of the Michael Jordan card, the PWCC auction featured other notable collectibles that reached extraordinary prices. One such item was a PSA 1 (MC) graded 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 card, which sold for an impressive $35,400. Despite its less-than-perfect condition, the rarity and historical significance of the card contributed to its high price.
Another record was set for a Kobe Bryant 1999 Upper Deck Game Jerseys patch auto card, which sold for $32,700. This card, featuring a game-worn jersey patch and Bryant’s autograph, is highly sought after by collectors and fans of the late basketball legend.
The auction also saw a significant sale in the world of motorsports collectibles, with a 2020 Topps Dynasty F1 card featuring Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas selling for $20,400. This card, part of the popular Formula 1 trading card series, showcases two of the sport’s biggest names and drew the attention of passionate race fans and collectors.
The PWCC Marketplace’s November Premier Auction showcased the continued growth and fascination with sports cards as collectibles. With record-breaking sales and highly coveted items changing hands, the market for these pieces of sports history shows no signs of slowing down. Whether it’s the allure of a Michael Jordan card, a rare Mickey Mantle find, or the excitement of Formula 1 collectibles, collectors and enthusiasts are sure to keep their eyes on future auctions to see what iconic sports memorabilia will make its mark next.
