Fanatics and Sotheby’s are once again teaming up to bring collectors and enthusiasts an extraordinary event in the world of sports cards. Following the success of their previous collaboration, the two powerhouses are gearing up to launch their second high-profile auction, the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” which will showcase rare and historic Upper Deck Exquisite cards. Scheduled to go live on December 16th, this auction is set to make waves in the world of collectibles.
The success of their first collaboration, aptly named “Holy Grails,” serves as a testament to the potential of this upcoming auction. The “Holy Grails” auction raked in over $7 million in sales from just 33 cards, featuring noteworthy sales like the 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 card fetching $840,000 and the 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph selling for $432,000. These sales, alongside others, highlighted the increasing demand for premium sports cards and solidified the Fanatics-Sotheby’s partnership as a dominant force in the collectibles market.
The focus of the upcoming auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” will be solely on cards from Upper Deck’s Exquisite line, a collection that has redefined the sports card industry. Revered for its top-tier materials, innovative designs, and iconic Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), the Exquisite line is a benchmark for luxury cards in the market. The collection will include 11 ultra-rare cards, featuring individual LeBron James masterpieces and a Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman triple Logoman card commemorating the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty. These cards are not just pieces for trading but also curated works of art, blending rarity, player significance, and historical value into one.
The legacy of the Exquisite product line by Upper Deck is a storied one. When it was first introduced, it pushed the boundaries of the industry with high-end RPAs at unprecedented price points. Initially met with skepticism, the Exquisite line eventually became the industry standard for premium sports cards, with prices skyrocketing over the years to reflect the cultural and collectible importance of these pieces.
Mark your calendars for December 16th, as the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is expected to draw attention from around the globe. With its exceptional curation and Sotheby’s renowned presentation of fine collectibles, this auction has the potential to establish new benchmarks in the sports card market. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or simply a fan, this event promises to showcase some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever produced. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity to witness history in the making.
