In the world of sports memorabilia, autographed jerseys are highly sought-after items. They hold particular value for collectors as they represent the player’s signature.
It is also a piece of history and nostalgia. Some have even become priceless gems with iconic signatures worth more than just their weight in fabric.
This document will explore the top ten most valuable autographed jersey collectibles ever, their worth, and the stories behind them.
1. Babe Ruth’s 1920 New York Yankees Jersey
Known as the ‘Sultan of Swat,’ Babe Ruth is one of the most legendary names in baseball history. His 1920 New York Yankees jersey, which he wore during his first season with the team, has been deemed the most valuable autographed jersey ever sold at auction.
The jersey was sold for a staggering $4.4 million in 2012, making it the most expensive sports memorabilia. Lelands.com purchased it, and it is now on display at the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum in Baltimore. The high price tag is due to the rarity of Ruth’s autograph and its significance in baseball history.
2. Michael Jordan’s 1984-85 Chicago Bulls Jersey
Michael Jordan, known as ‘Air Jordan,’ is considered one of the greatest basketball players ever. His 1984-85 Chicago Bulls jersey he wore during his rookie season is the most valuable basketball jersey ever sold at auction.
The jersey was purchased for $1.38 million in 2020 by entrepreneur and collector Darren Rovell. It is now proudly displayed in his private collection. As Jordan’s first professional jersey, it holds great sentimental and historical value for fans and collectors.
The signature is of notable quality, applied in permanent black marker on the jersey’s back. The MeiGray Group authenticated the jersey and has a letter of authenticity from Jordan himself.
3. Honus Wagner’s 1909-11 Pittsburgh Pirates Jersey
Considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Honus Wagner is known for his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His 1909-11 jersey, which he wore during three National League pennant-winning seasons, is one of baseball’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The jersey was sold for $657,250 in 2007 and is currently displayed at the Carnegie Science Center’s Sports Museum in Pittsburgh. Wagner’s signature holds excellent value due to its rarity and his legendary status in the sport. Only a handful of his vintage signed jerseys are known to exist, making this one a true gem for collectors.
4. Wayne Gretzky’s 1979-80 Edmonton Oilers Jersey
Known as ‘The Great One,’ Wayne Gretzky is a hockey legend who revolutionized the sport with his skill and talent. His 1979-80 Edmonton Oilers jersey, worn during his rookie season, is one of hockey’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The signed hockey memorabilia was sold for $465,000 in 2011 and is now part of a private collection. Gretzky’s signature holds excellent value as he rarely signs jerseys, making this one a highly coveted item for hockey fans and collectors. The jersey was authenticated by Gretzky himself, adding to its authenticity and worth.
5. Muhammad Ali’s 1964 Cassius Clay Training Worn Jersey
Muhammad Ali, known as ‘The Greatest,’ is considered one of the most legendary figures in boxing and sports history. His 1964 training-worn jersey, worn during his transition from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali, is one of the most valuable autographed jerseys in boxing history.
The jersey was sold for $376,000 in 2018 and is now part of a private collection. Ali’s signature holds excellent value as he rarely signed training-worn items, making this jersey a rarity for collectors. The jersey also has historical significance as it represents one of the most iconic moments in Ali’s career.
6 . Mickey Mantle’s 1960 New York Yankees Jersey
Mickey Mantle, known as the ‘Commerce Comet,’ is one of the most iconic athletes in baseball history. His 1960 New York Yankees jersey, worn during his World Series-winning season, is one of baseball’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The jersey was sold for $325,000 in 2013 and is now part of a private collection. Mantle’s signature holds excellent value as it is one of the most sought-after autographs in baseball. The jersey is also sentimental for fans, representing Mantle’s final World Series appearance.
7. Lebron James’ 2003 St.Vincent-St.Mary High School Jersey
Lebron James, known as ‘King James,’ is among the most dominant and popular basketball players ever. His 2003 high school jersey, worn during his senior year at St.Vincent-St.Mary High School, is one of basketball’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The jersey was sold for $371,000 in 2016 and is now part of a private collection. James’ signature is valuable as it represents his early years before reaching NBA stardom. The rarity of a high school jersey also adds to its worth for collectors.
8. Joe DiMaggio’s 1961 New York Yankees Jersey
Joe DiMaggio, known as the ‘Yankee Clipper,’ is one of the most iconic names in baseball history. His 1961 New York Yankees jersey, worn during his final season with the team, is one of baseball’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The jersey was sold for $227,050 in 2006 and is now kept in a private collection. DiMaggio’s signature holds excellent value as he rarely signed athlete autographs after retirement, making this jersey a rare find for collectors. The jersey is sentimental, representing DiMaggio’s final season with the Yankees.
9. Yogi Berra’s 1956 New York Yankees Jersey
Yogi Berra is known as one of baseball’s greatest catchers and is remembered for his witty sayings and humorous personality. His 1956 New York Yankees jersey, worn during the team’s World Series-winning season, is one of baseball’s most valuable autographed jerseys.
The jersey was sold for $564,930 in 2010 and is currently on display at the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center. Berra’s signature holds excellent value as he rarely signed his full name, making this jersey a rarity for collectors. The jersey also has historical significance, representing one of the greatest seasons in Yankees history.
10. Bobby Jones’ 1930-31 New York Americans Jersey
Bobby Jones is one of the greatest golfers in sports history and helped popularize the sport in America. His 1930-31 New York Americans jersey, worn during his final season with the team, is one of the most valuable autographed jerseys in golf history.
The jersey was sold for $173,102 in 2007 and is now part of a private collection. Jones’ signature holds excellent value as it is extremely rare on any type of memorabilia. The jersey also has historical significance as it represents Jones’ final season before retiring from competitive golf.
Owning an Autographed Jersey
These ten autographed jerseys hold immense monetary value. It also has historical and sentimental significance in the world of sports. They represent some of the greatest athletes and moments in sports history. This makes them highly sought-after items for collectors.
Each one holds a unique story behind its iconic signature, adding to its worth and importance in the sports memorabilia market.
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