In a highly anticipated auction, the last NFL jersey worn by Tom Brady sold for a staggering $1,391,000 at Sotheby’s, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for an NFL game-worn jersey. The jersey in question was worn by Brady during the second half of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff defeat against the Dallas Cowboys on January 16, 2022.
Although the final sale price fell short of the pre-auction estimates, which had placed it between $1.5 million and $2.5 million, it still managed to surpass the previous record of $1.2 million set by a Joe Montana Super Bowl jersey. The auction took place amidst the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix and featured a wide range of cars and racing collectibles.
Brady, who retired from professional football after an illustrious 23-season career on February 1, made a memorable final appearance on the field. He threw for an impressive 351 yards, setting a new record for the highest yardage by any player in their final playoff game. The significance of this particular jersey, combined with the legendary quarterback’s achievements, undoubtedly contributed to its astronomical price.
The size 44 Nike jersey is complete with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ team emblem, a captain’s patch, and various signs of game play, including grass stains. Additionally, the jersey bears Brady’s signature, as well as the notations “My Last Game” and “GOAT Out!” These personalized elements further enhance the value and desirability of the jersey for passionate collectors and fans alike.
This is not the first time that one of Brady’s jerseys has commanded such a high price. In a separate auction earlier this fall, the jersey from his 700th career touchdown pass was sold for $1.2 million, with proceeds going to charity. While the provenance of the jersey sold at Sotheby’s remains undisclosed, the auction house has confirmed that it was privately sold prior to the auction.
The journey of the jersey from Brady’s possession to the auction block is shrouded in mystery, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its already significant value. Brady’s outstanding achievements, both in individual games and throughout his career, have cemented his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. This, combined with his retirement announcement, undoubtedly made the opportunity to own a piece of his final game-day attire an incredibly enticing prospect for collectors and fans.
The record-breaking sale of Tom Brady’s last game-worn jersey at Sotheby’s not only speaks to the enduring popularity of NFL memorabilia but also to the enduring legacy of an exceptional athlete. As fans and enthusiasts continue to celebrate Brady’s achievements, his retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that will surely be remembered for years to come.
