In a landmark partnership, Fanatics and Sotheby's are set to redefine the luxury sports card market through high-profile auctions and the launch of a new marketplace, Fanatics Collect, offering elite sports cards valued at over $100,000.
Fanatics and Sotheby's have announced a groundbreaking partnership that promises to reshape the landscape of the high-end sports card market. This collaboration will facilitate a series of exclusive auctions, providing a platform for collectors to buy and sell some of the most sought-after sports cards, each with values starting at $100,000.
Alongside this exciting venture, Fanatics is gearing up to launch Fanatics Collect, a new collectibles marketplace expected to debut later this summer. This platform will succeed the PWCC brand, offering a more dynamic collecting experience that includes auctions, a Buy Now marketplace, secure storage options, and robust authentication and grading partnerships.
The debut auction of this partnership is slated for September in New York, featuring a standout item—a PSA 8 1948 Leaf #79 Jackie Robinson card. This card is distinguished as the only true rookie card of the baseball legend from the vibrant and iconic 1948 Leaf set, which is beloved by collectors for its rich history and the prominence of Hall of Famers featured.
Nick Bell, CEO of Fanatics Collect, highlighted the cultural importance and global appeal this partnership is set to bring to the table, offering unprecedented visibility to these valuable collectibles. Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectibles, shared his enthusiasm about elevating the trading card market through this innovative collaboration, which will include state-of-the-art exhibitions and exciting events.
This alliance marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of collecting sports cards, introducing a modern era of accessibility and innovation for enthusiasts. With plans to integrate features like peer-to-peer trading, AI-driven concierge services, card scanning technology, and digital collectibles, Fanatics Collect aims to become the definitive online hub for purchasing and experiencing high-value sports memorabilia.