Fanatics and Sotheby’s are once again joining forces to bring the world of sports card collecting to new heights with their latest auction event, the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.” Following the immense success of their previous collaboration, known as “Holy Grails,” the duo is gearing up to unveil a stunning array of rare and historic Upper Deck Exquisite cards to collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
The “Holy Grails” auction earlier this year set a remarkable precedent, raking in over $7 million in sales from just 33 cards. Some of the standout sales from the event included a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 card that fetched a staggering $840,000, a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph sold for $432,000, and a Shohei Ohtani card that set a then-record at $336,000. These sales not only demonstrated the surging demand for premium sports cards but also solidified the partnership between Fanatics and Sotheby’s as a dominant player in the collectibles market.
The upcoming “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction will focus exclusively on showcasing cards from Upper Deck’s renowned Exquisite line, a collection that has long been synonymous with luxury and innovation in the sports card industry. Famous for its use of premium materials, cutting-edge designs, and coveted Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), the Exquisite line has set a new standard for high-end collectible cards over the years.
Within the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” collectors will have the opportunity to behold 11 exceptionally rare cards, including individual LeBron James masterpieces and a Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman triple Logoman card commemorating the Chicago Bulls’ legendary dynasty. These cards are not merely trading pieces; they are considered works of art that encapsulate rarity, player significance, and historical value in a single collectible item.
The legacy of the Exquisite product line is one that has left an indelible mark on the sports card industry. When Upper Deck first introduced the Exquisite cards, they were met with skepticism due to their unprecedented price points. However, over time, these cards have become revered as the pinnacle of premium sports collectibles, commanding astronomical prices that reflect their cultural and historical significance in the realm of sports memorabilia.
The “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction is expected to draw widespread attention from collectors, investors, and fans across the globe. With its meticulously curated selection and Sotheby’s esteemed reputation for presenting fine collectibles, this event has the potential to establish new benchmarks in the sports card market and redefine the landscape of collectible card auctions.
Mark your calendars for December 16th, when the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction goes live. Whether you are a seasoned collector, an avid fan, or a curious observer, this is an opportunity not to be missed to witness the sale of some of the most extraordinary and sought-after sports cards ever produced.