The online bidding in SCP Auctions’ 2017 Spring Premier Auction ended June 11, and a new auction world record was set. Lot 464 – Michael Jordan’s game worn and dual signed Converse shoes from the 1984 Olympics’ gold-medal-winning-game against Spain – closed at $190,373 to shatter the previous auction record of $104,765 for game-worn shoes. The prior mark was set in 2013 for a pair of Nike Air Jordan XII shoes Jordan wore in Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals.
“Once again Michael Jordan has set a new standard in the basketball shoe market,” said Dan Imler, SCP Auctions’ vice president. “The record-shattering price achieved for his 1984 Olympic worn shoes proves that Michael Jordan has no equal in the marketplace for game-used basketball memorabilia.”
In addition to Jordan’s Olympic gamers, the online auction saw the headline-grabbing sale of a 1909-11 Honus Wagner T206 baseball card for $609,294. The sought-after card is being referred to as “The Original Wagner” based on the fact that it was the first of its kind to be featured in mainstream media (Newark Evening News) in 1930.
Overall, the auction of 723 different lots brought in $3.75 million including the sale of 20 coveted baseball items from the personal memorabilia collection of late Pittsburgh Pirates’ slugger Willie Stargell. The pieces were all consigned by Stargell’s widow, Margaret Weller-Stargell, and were led by the Hall of Famer’s 1979 National League MVP Award ($103,567) and his ’79 World Series ring as a member of the Pirates ($82,853).
Other top auction lots included a circa 1955 Heisman Trophy ($100,252); a 1933 Goudey Sport Kings framed uncut sheet of 24 cards ($82,853); and a 1979 Terry Bradshaw Pittsburgh Steelers game-worn helmet gifted to Willie Stargell ($65,007).
The historic Jordan sneakers are the last pair he ever wore in amateur competition and represent perhaps his crowning achievement before turning pro. A baby-faced, 21-year-old Jordan led Team USA in scoring during the ’84 Games (17.1 points per game) and scored a game-high 20 points in the United States’ 96-65 victory over Spain to win the gold while sporting these classic Converse shoes. It marked the last time MJ was ever seen wearing a non-Nike pair. The buyer wishes to remain anonymous. All prices reported include a buyer’s premium.
For full auction results, visit www.scpauctions.com.