As the world of collectibles continues to evolve, a fascinating trend has taken hold within the niche market of graded magazines, particularly focusing on iconic issues of Sports Illustrated. Certified Collectibles Group (CGC), a leading authority in the grading industry with a rich history spanning 15 years, has seen a surge in interest for preserved pieces of sports history. With over 28,000 issues of Sports Illustrated graded by CGC, it’s clear that collectors have developed a keen appreciation for these encapsulated gems.
Setting the stage for this burgeoning trend is a remarkable achievement in the grading world. Previously, the highest price ever recorded for a graded magazine stood at $126,000 for a 9.8 graded newsstand copy of the December 10, 1984 issue of Sports Illustrated, featuring none other than basketball legend Michael Jordan in his Chicago Bulls debut. This iconic cover, titled “A Star is Born,” represents just one of the 2,000+ SI issues graded at 9.8 by CGC.
However, a new star has emerged on the horizon, poised to potentially break existing records. In a groundbreaking move, CGC bestowed a perfect 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 issue of Sports Illustrated spotlighting soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé just before the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grade, a first for any SI issue, was assigned to a magazine submitted by a dedicated collector from the Midwest. The buzz surrounding this remarkable edition has propelled it onto the auction block through Goldin, where it has already captured the imagination of fervent bidders.
Recognizing the allure of graded magazines, Goldin has introduced a dedicated category for these prized collectibles. Delving deeper into the appeal of these magazines, Goldin’s Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography highlights their significance not only to sports enthusiasts but also to photography aficionados, given the illustrious photographers who have contributed to the magazine’s iconic covers over the years.
The auction spotlight doesn’t fade there. Alongside the coveted Mbappé issue, bidders have the chance to vie for other remarkable items such as a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card boasting an impressive 8.5 grade, a rare 1956 Floyd Patterson card graded at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids edition featuring Michael Jordan at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967.
While eBay serves as a popular platform for the majority of graded magazine sales, where a whopping 6,000+ listings can be uncovered, dedicated auctions also play a pivotal role in the market. A CGC 9.6 graded issue showcasing soccer legend Pele from 1975 fetched a substantial $25,000 in March 2023, while a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 raked in over $11,000 last year. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that four of the highest-selling graded SIs on eBay since the past year prominently featured Michael Jordan on their covers, underscoring the enduring appeal of the basketball icon.
The evolving landscape of graded magazines stands as a testament to the diverse interests fueling the world of collectors and investors. With graded Sports Illustrated magazines capturing the spotlight and driving fervent bidding wars, it’s evident that these meticulously preserved pieces of sports history are far more than mere memorabilia—they’re coveted treasures drawing in enthusiasts from far and wide.
