In a thrilling event for basketball enthusiasts and collectors, a set of six iconic sneakers worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is set to be auctioned off. These sneakers, known as The Dynasty Collection, were privately held for years and are now ready to find a new home with the highest bidder. Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, has organized the auction, which is scheduled to open on February 2nd. With a pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million, this collection is expected to draw significant attention.
The sneakers in The Dynasty Collection were originally acquired by a private collector who obtained them from Tim Hallam, the public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during their dominant era in the 1990s. The collection holds special significance as it originated from a tradition between Jordan and Hallam. After each Finals victory, Jordan would present Hallam with one of his game-worn shoes, leading to the formation of this unique and coveted collection.
Visitors had the privilege of viewing The Dynasty Collection at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention held in Atlantic City. This remarkable collection spans the Bulls’ championship years from 1991 through 1998, showcasing a variety of Air Jordan models worn by Jordan during his illustrious career. Each sneaker in the collection bears Michael Jordan’s autograph, signifying his status as the Finals MVP for each of those championship series.
Sotheby’s aptly named the collection The Dynasty Collection to capture the significance of these sneakers in basketball history. It features the Air Jordan VI (1991), which draws inspiration from Jordan’s Porsche 911, the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992) – the first model without Nike branding, the Air Jordan VIII (1993) with its distinctive “x-strap” design, the famed “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole, the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997), and the iconic “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), a prototype reminiscent of Jordan’s Ferrari 550 Maranello.
Adding to the allure of The Dynasty Collection are a set of signed photographs capturing Jordan in the moments immediately following each championship win. Humorously, Jordan can be seen wearing only one sneaker in these photos, with the other already in Hallam’s possession. This personal touch enhances the historical value of the collection, offering a glimpse into the camaraderie between Jordan and Hallam.
Each sneaker in the collection represents a testament to Jordan’s evolving style and the advancements in sneaker technology throughout his career. Thorough verification processes, including detailed certification and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by CSG and other experts, ensure the authenticity and historical significance of these sneakers.
This auction follows the groundbreaking sale of another pair of Jordan’s game-worn sneakers from the 1998 Finals Game 2, which set a record by selling for an astonishing $2.2 million. The upcoming auction of The Dynasty Collection is not only a momentous sports memorabilia event but also a rare opportunity for collectors and basketball fans to own a piece of basketball history that embodies the unparalleled legacy of one of the greatest athletes in the sport, Michael Jordan.
