logo
ISA Grading Advertisement

Bob Beamon's Iconic 1968 Olympic Medal Goes Under the Hammer at Christie's

* We may earn a commission from purchases made through our affiliate links.

bob-beeamon-gold-medal.png
Christie's Auction House is preparing to offer a unique piece of Olympic history: the gold medal awarded to Bob Beamon for his record-setting long jump at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Fifty-five years after his astounding performance, Beamon is parting with the medal that commemorates his world record leap of 29 feet, 2 1/2 inches, a record that still stands as the Olympic benchmark. This historic auction is scheduled to take place during The Exceptional Sale, starting February 1.

In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Beamon, now 77, shared his thoughts on relinquishing this symbol of his athletic prowess. "After enjoying and cherishing this medal for over 55 years, I feel it's time to let it be appreciated by someone else," he said. "This decision is a significant and heartening step for me."

Beamon's legendary jump not only set a new standard in the sport but also introduced the term "Beamonesque" into popular lexicon, denoting an extraordinary or incredible feat. Beamon himself recalls the disbelief and emotional impact of that moment, a realization that took time to fully sink in.

Christie's anticipates that the medal could fetch between $400,000 and $600,000, as estimated by Casey Rogers, Head of The Exceptional Sale. Rogers highlights the medal's significance as a physical reminder of an extraordinary Olympic achievement that has stood the test of time. "It's a piece that connects us directly to a momentous occasion in sports history," Rogers noted.

Beyond his indelible mark in the world of sports, Beamon has pursued his passion in music, a path he once considered before dedicating himself to track and field. His musical journey as a percussionist with Stix Bones and The BONE Squad mirrors the discipline and commitment he exhibited in sports. "It's akin to training for the Olympics," Beamon said of his rigorous practice sessions.

Beamon's entry into the music scene will be officially celebrated with the release of his recording debut on January 12, accompanied by a live performance at The Cutting Room in New York City. This event marks another milestone in the life of an athlete who not only achieved historic heights in sports but continues to inspire through his artistic endeavors.

Share:

PWCC Auction Advertisement

0 Comments

Related

Sports Card News

Lewis Hamilton Links Up with Fanatics Collectibles and Lifts the Lid on His Most Prized Mementos


  • bionic Avatar
  • by bionic
  • April 28, 2025, 1:05 pm

Lewis Hamilton Links Up with Fanatics Collectibles and Lifts the Lid on His Most Prized Mementos


Lewis Hamilton, fresh into his first season with Ferrari after 12 years at Mercedes, has signed a multi-year deal with Fanatics Collectibles. The agreement covers a dedicated autograph arrangement with Topps—now part of Fanatics—ensuring Hamilton’...

Read More

Topps Now Drops Limited John Cena Cards to Celebrate Record 17th WWE Championship Win


  • bionic Avatar
  • by bionic
  • April 23, 2025, 6:05 pm

Topps Now Drops Limited John Cena Cards to Celebrate Record 17th WWE Championship Win


John Cena’s Historic Title Win Gets the Topps Now Treatment WWE icon John Cena just made history at WrestleMania 41, and now collectors can mark the moment with a brand-new Topps Now card release that pays tribute to his record-breaking 17th World Cha...

Read More

Panini Brings Back Patrick Mahomes Autographs in 2025 NFL Trading Card Line


  • bionic Avatar
  • by bionic
  • April 22, 2025, 5:58 pm

Panini Brings Back Patrick Mahomes Autographs in 2025 NFL Trading Card Line


Mahomes Returns to Panini Packs with New Autographed Cards for 2025 Patrick Mahomes is once again teaming up with Panini America—and collectors couldn’t be more thrilled. For the first time in five years, new autographed cards from the Kansas City ...

Read More