Fanatics and Sotheby’s have once again joined forces to unveil a dazzling array of some of the most sought-after sports cards globally. Following their triumphant summer collaboration, the dynamic duo is gearing up to launch their highly anticipated second auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” showcasing a selection of rare and historically significant Upper Deck Exquisite cards. Scheduled to go live on December 16th, this auction is set to be a standout moment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Picking up from the resounding success of their previous venture, titled “Holy Grails,” the first collaboration between Fanatics and Sotheby’s was nothing short of extraordinary. With sales exceeding $7 million from just 33 cards, the auction made waves in the industry with notable sales such as the 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9 fetching $840,000, the 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph selling for $432,000, and a Shohei Ohtani card setting a then-record at $336,000. This auction not only highlighted the escalating demand for premium sports cards but also solidified the partnership as a dominant player in the collectibles market.
The upcoming “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” will shine a spotlight exclusively on cards from Upper Deck’s Exquisite line, a collection that revolutionized the sports card landscape. Revered for its use of premium materials, innovative designs, and the groundbreaking Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), the Exquisite line set a new standard for luxury cards.
Featuring 11 exceptionally rare cards, the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” includes individual masterpieces of LeBron James and a triple Logoman card showcasing Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman commemorating the iconic Chicago Bulls dynasty. These cards are not merely seen as trading cards but are revered as pieces of art that blend rarity, player significance, and historical importance seamlessly.
The legacy of the Exquisite line is one of innovation and daring vision. Karvin Cheung, credited as the mastermind behind Exquisite, introduced the concept of high-end RPAs at price points previously unheard of in the industry. While initially met with skepticism, Exquisite steadily grew to become the unparalleled benchmark for premium sports cards. Today, these cards command staggering prices that reflect their cultural and collectible significance.
The “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is expected to make waves globally, capturing the attention of collectors, investors, and fans alike. With its meticulously curated selection and Sotheby’s esteemed reputation for presenting fine collectibles, this auction has the potential to establish new benchmarks in the sports card market.
Mark December 16th on your calendars as the date to watch out for. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the sale of some of the most exceptional sports cards ever produced, or perhaps even participate in acquiring these extraordinary pieces of sports memorabilia.