This September, Sotheby’s and Fanatics are set to make history in the trading card industry with their first-ever “Holy Grails” auction. This unprecedented event will feature a carefully curated selection of over 40 of the rarest and most desirable trading cards from the 20th and 21st centuries, spotlighting legendary athletes like Tom Brady, LeBron James, Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and more.
The “Holy Grails” auction is a tribute to the passion and dedication of collectors who spend years pursuing these rare and valuable items. Sotheby’s and Fanatics have responded to this enduring pursuit by gathering the most extraordinary and sought-after cards—the true “Holy Grails” of the collecting world—into one exclusive event.
Set against the backdrop of the Harlem Parish, a stunningly deconsecrated church on West 118th Street in New York City, the auction promises to be an immersive experience that blends the excitement of sports with the sophistication of fine art. The exhibition will be open to the public on September 23 and 24, with the live auction taking place on September 24.
This event is just the latest in a series of innovative auctions from Sotheby’s, which is redefining the traditional auction experience. Earlier this year, Sotheby’s introduced the “Rough Diamonds” auction, a unique event held in an underground wine cellar that featured avant-garde timepieces. With “Holy Grails,” Sotheby’s and Fanatics are bringing that same spirit of innovation to the trading card industry.
“Our vision was to create an auction experience unlike anything the trading card world has ever seen,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectables. “By choosing the iconic Harlem Parish and incorporating striking visual elements, we’re not just showcasing trading cards—we’re reimagining what collecting means in today’s world. This auction is a bold step forward, bringing these treasured cards into the spotlight in a way that’s never been done before.”
Chris Lamontagne, president of Fanatics Collect and Fanatics Live, added, “We’re excited to help create an auction experience that’s truly groundbreaking. From the innovative setup of the venue to the exceptional cards being offered, to the passionate fans and collectors who will be part of the event, this is something the hobby industry has never seen.”
The “Holy Grails” auction is poised to be a transformative moment for the trading card industry, offering collectors an opportunity to acquire some of the most elusive and valuable cards ever made, all within a uniquely immersive and memorable setting.