In a recent private deal brokered by Goldin Auctions, a 1961-62 Fleer Wilt Chamberlain rookie card was sold for a staggering $1.7 million. This sale set a new record for the most money ever paid for a vintage basketball card, surpassing the previous record held by a 1980-81 Topps Larry Bird/Magic Johnson rookie card that sold for $861,000. The Chamberlain card, which had been hidden away in a grocery store closet in Crosby, Minnesota for over 60 years, was discovered by a family member of the store’s owners.
The Perfect Grade
After being sent to grading just weeks before the sale, the Chamberlain rookie card received a perfect “10” from card grader SGC. This flawless grade is particularly impressive considering the historical issues associated with the 1961-62 Fleer set, such as factory and printing defects. The fact that this card remained untouched and in pristine condition for six decades only adds to its allure and value in the eyes of collectors.
Caleb Baker, the card’s consignor, expressed his disbelief and excitement at being the one to bring this historic card to market. In a statement, Baker shared, “As soon as I saw the card in person, I knew this would be life-changing. I’m still in a state of shock that I was the one who got to send it for grading and put this monumental and historic card on the market with Goldin.” The significance of owning and selling such a valuable piece of sports memorabilia is not lost on Baker, who recognizes the impact this sale will have on his life.
In addition to the record-breaking sale of the Chamberlain rookie card, his 1959-60 photo-matched, rookie-season-home-white jersey also made headlines when it sold for $1.792 million at SCP Auctions in June 2023. This sale set a new record for the most expensive vintage basketball item ever sold, further solidifying Chamberlain’s status as a legendary figure in basketball history. The demand for iconic sports memorabilia continues to grow, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for items that hold historical significance and rarity.
The sale of the Wilt Chamberlain rookie card for $1.7 million represents a significant moment in the world of sports collectibles. The perfect grade, historical significance, and the story behind its discovery all contribute to the appeal and value of this rare card. As the market for sports memorabilia continues to thrive, it will be interesting to see what other records are broken in the future.
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