Fanatics and Sotheby’s are once again joining forces to bring forth a grand display of some of the most sought-after sports cards in the world. Following the triumph of their previous collaboration, the dynamic duo is gearing up to unveil their second high-profile auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” showcasing exquisite and rare Upper Deck Exquisite cards. The auction is set to kick off on December 16th and is expected to be an extraordinary event for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Reflecting on the Success of “Holy Grails”
Their inaugural collaboration, known as “Holy Grails,” which took place during the summer season, left an indelible mark with remarkable achievements. Garnering over $7 million in sales from a mere 33 cards, the auction witnessed some noteworthy sales that grabbed headlines, such as the $840,000 sale of a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9, the $432,000 sale of a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph, and a Shohei Ohtani card that set a record at $336,000. While Ohtani’s record has now been overshadowed, the auction spotlighted the soaring demand for premium sports cards and solidified the partnership as a dominant force in the collectibles market.
Spotlight on Upper Deck Exquisite
The upcoming “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” will shine a spotlight exclusively on cards from Upper Deck’s Exquisite line, a collection that reshaped the landscape of the sports card industry. Renowned for its premium materials, innovative designs, and iconic Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), the Exquisite line set a new standard for high-end sports cards.
The collection features 11 ultra-rare cards, including individual LeBron James masterpieces and a card showcasing Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman with a triple Logoman, celebrating the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty. These pieces are revered by collectors and enthusiasts not just as trading cards, but as pieces of art that blend rarity, player significance, and historical value.
The Legacy of Exquisite
When Upper Deck introduced the Exquisite product line, it was a bold and revolutionary move. The brainchild behind it, Karvin Cheung, pioneered the concept of high-end RPAs at unprecedented price points. Initially met with skepticism, over time, Exquisite emerged as the gold standard for premium sports cards. Today, these cards fetch astronomical prices, reflecting their cultural and collectible importance.
Save the Date
The “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is set to captivate a global audience comprising collectors, investors, and fans. With its unparalleled curation and Sotheby’s renowned reputation for presenting exquisite collectibles, this auction has the potential to establish new benchmarks in the sports card market.
Mark your calendars for December 16th, as this auction promises to be an event not to be missed. Don’t pass up the opportunity to witness or partake in the sale of some of the most exceptional sports cards ever crafted.
