In a significant auction event preceding Super Bowl Sunday, Johnny Unitas’ ring from the Baltimore Colts’ Super Bowl V victory achieved a remarkable sale price of $258,500. This auction was part of the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction held in Las Vegas, featuring several items from the Hall of Fame quarterback’s storied career, all consigned by his family. Despite an early exit due to injury in the game against the Dallas Cowboys, Unitas’ memorabilia, including his Super Bowl ring, attracted considerable interest and high bids.
The auction price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring notably surpassed that of his 1958 NFL championship ring by over $100,000. The latter commemorated his role in the iconic overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game credited with elevating the national stature of professional football.
Other items of Unitas’ memorabilia sold at the auction included his Hall of Fame ring, which fetched $38,175, and his 1967 NFL MVP award, which went for $64,625. Additionally, a pair of Unitas’ signature high-top cleats was sold for $27,025.
Matching the top sale price of Unitas’ Super Bowl ring was a 2014 game-worn jersey by Tom Brady, also bringing in $258,500. This jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, represented a season where Brady secured his fourth of seven Super Bowl titles.
The auction also featured items from Anthony Munoz, the Hall of Fame offensive lineman, including a game-worn 1980s Cincinnati Bengals jersey that sold for $16,450 and the uniform from his final NFL game, which realized $11,456.
But the spotlight remained on Johnny Unitas and his remarkable career. The bidding frenzy continued with a 2023 Brock Purdy game-worn jersey that fetched an impressive $30,550. Fans and collectors were eager to own a piece of football history, as evidenced by the 2022 Lamar Jackson game-worn jersey selling for $22,325.
Not only jerseys commanded high prices. A 1980s Ronnie Lott game-worn helmet, known for its hard-hitting impact, sold for $19,975, while a 1997 Dan Marino game-worn jersey went under the hammer for $17,625. Sports enthusiasts were willing to splurge on these iconic pieces of equipment.
The auction also highlighted the value of game-used footballs, as a Super Bowl XXXVIII football was snapped up for $14,100. Fans understood the significance of owning a football that had been on the field during the intense Super Bowl match.
The demand for football memorabilia continues to rise, with collectors and fans recognizing the enduring legacy and value of items from football legends. Nostalgia and the desire to connect with beloved players drive prices to breathtaking levels. Owning a piece of sports history becomes not just a physical possession but a cherished symbol of a bygone era.
In conclusion, the Super Bowl and Championship rings of Johnny Unitas, along with other memorabilia from his storied career, fetched remarkable prices at auction. The enduring legacy and value of items from football legends continue to captivate collectors and fans alike, providing an opportunity to own a piece of sports history and connect with the triumphs and accomplishments of iconic players.
