Fanatics and Sotheby’s, two titans in the world of sports collectibles, have joined forces once again to unveil a spectacle that will leave enthusiasts in awe. Following the resounding success of their initial collaboration coined “Holy Grails,” where $7 million was exchanged for just 33 cards, the stage is now set for their next high-profile auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection.” This time, the spotlight shines on the rare and historic Upper Deck Exquisite cards, a true gem in the world of sports memorabilia.

Set to take place on December 16th, this upcoming auction promises to be a groundbreaking event that will undoubtedly attract the attention of collectors, investors, and avid sports fans. The anticipation surrounding this auction is palpable, given the remarkable success of their previous venture which featured sensational sales like the $840,000 transaction of a 1955 Topps Roberto Clemente PSA 9, the $432,000 exchange for a 2003 LeBron James Exquisite rookie patch autograph, and the then-record breaking sale of a Shohei Ohtani card for $336,000.

The focal point of the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” auction will be the exclusive showcase of cards from Upper Deck’s Exquisite line, a collection that has rewritten the rules of the sports card industry. Renowned for its utilization of premium materials, innovative designs, and the revolutionary Rookie Patch Autographs (RPAs), the Exquisite line has elevated itself to a prestigious position within the world of sports memorabilia.

Among the 11 ultra-rare cards featured in this collection, standouts include individual masterpieces of LeBron James and a unique card commemorating the Chicago Bulls’ formidable trio of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman, featuring their triple Logoman. These cards are not just valuable collectibles; they are revered as works of art that encapsulate rarity, player significance, and historical importance in a single frame.

The legacy of the Exquisite line is a tale of bold innovation and eventual triumph in the face of skepticism. Initially a revolutionary concept introduced by Karvin Cheung, the Exquisite line challenged traditional price points with high-end RPAs that were unheard of at the time. Despite initial resistance, Exquisite etched its name as the gold standard for premium sports cards, commanding astronomical prices today that reflect both their cultural resonance and collectible value.

As the countdown begins to the grand event on December 16th, the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection” is poised to make waves in the sports card market, raising the bar for excellence and setting new benchmarks for future auctions. With Fanatics’ impeccable curation and Sotheby’s unparalleled reputation for presenting fine collectibles, this auction is a must-watch for anyone captivated by the allure of sports memorabilia.

Mark your calendars, for this is not just an auction; it is a celebration of sporting history, artistic craftsmanship, and the thrill of the chase. Be prepared to witness (or perhaps even participate in) the sale of some of the most exceptional sports cards ever produced.

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