Robert Kraft, the New England Patriots owner, made headlines in the world of collectibles on Tuesday evening at the “Holy Grails” auction in Harlem Parish. As Shohei Ohtani’s legendary status continues to soar both on the field and in the realm of sports memorabilia, his one-of-a-kind 2018 Topps Chrome Sapphire Autographs Superfractor rookie card stole the show by selling for an impressive $336,000.
Ohtani’s remarkable rookie card shattered auction records at the event, which was a groundbreaking collaboration between Fanatics Collect and Sotheby’s. The sale of the Japanese baseball sensation’s card surpassed the previous record of $312,000 set in December 2021, reflecting the exponential growth in Ohtani’s popularity and achievements.
Originally estimated to be valued between $80,000 and $120,000, Ohtani’s card’s final price far exceeded expectations. His exceptional performance on the field, including making history as the first MLB player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, undoubtedly contributed to the card’s skyrocketing value.
Among the distinguished attendees at the auction were NFL legend Tom Brady, who witnessed Kraft’s significant purchase of a Tom Brady 2000 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autograph card for $120,000. The presence of high-profile figures like YouTube sensation Logan Paul and rapper Meek Mill added to the excitement of the event.
Another standout sale of the evening was a 2022 Bowman Chrome 1st Bowman Prospect Autograph Superfractor card of MLB rising star Elly De La Cruz, which fetched an impressive $360,000, surpassing Ohtani’s record-setting sale. However, the highest bid of the night was reserved for a 2005-06 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autographs card featuring basketball icons Michael Jordan and Julius Erving. This unique card, adorned with game-used NBA logo patches from the players’ jerseys, commanded a staggering price of $780,000.
The “Holy Grails” auction acted as a gathering of some of the rarest and most sought-after sports memorabilia, with Ohtani’s card leading the charge with its record-breaking sale. The event was a platform for jaw-dropping bids, iconic items, and memorable moments that solidified Ohtani’s status as a prominent figure not only in the realm of sports but also in the world of collectibles.