Fanatics and Sotheby’s are once again joining forces to unveil a highly anticipated event in the world of sports card collecting—the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction. Following the resounding success of their previous collaboration, the “Holy Grails” auction, this new venture promises to offer collectors a glimpse into the rarefied world of sports card artistry.
The “Holy Grails” auction in the summer shattered expectations, raking in over $7 million from the sale of just 33 cards. Among the standout sales were the impressive $840,000 transaction for a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 card, the $432,000 purchase of a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph, and the then-record-setting $336,000 sale of a Shohei Ohtani card. These results not only highlighted the skyrocketing 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 be a noteworthy event focusing exclusively on cards from Upper Deck’s acclaimed Exquisite line. This product line, known for its luxurious materials, groundbreaking designs, and iconic Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), redefined the landscape of sports card collecting. The collection will showcase 11 ultra-rare cards, including individual masterpieces featuring LeBron James and a special card celebrating the Chicago Bulls’ formidable trio of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman.
These cards transcend the realm of traditional trading cards to be revered as true works of art by collectors and enthusiasts. The blend of rarity, player significance, and historical value imbues these pieces with a unique aura that extends beyond mere memorabilia.
The legacy of the Exquisite product line extends back to its bold inception by Karvin Cheung, the visionary behind the concept of high-end RPAs at previously unseen price points. Though initially met with skepticism, Exquisite cards eventually emerged as the pinnacle of premium sports card craftsmanship. Today, these cards fetch staggering prices at auctions, reflecting their outsized impact on the cultural and collectibles landscape.
Set your calendars for December 16th, the date when the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction will captivate collectors, investors, and fans worldwide. With its impeccable curation and Sotheby’s esteemed reputation for showcasing fine collectibles, this auction is poised to establish new benchmarks in the sports card market. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness—or participate in—the sale of some of the most extraordinary sports cards ever created.
