There’s been a monumental shift in the trading card industry. Fanatics and Sotheby’s announced Tuesday they are joining forces to offer a series of live and online auctions of trading cards valued $100,000 and above. Meanwhile, Fanatics is also retiring the PWCC brand and launching Fanatics Collect — a new collectibles marketplace set to debut later this summer.
We’re incredibly proud to partner with @sothebys to offer collectors the chance to chase grails on the greatest stage. 🤝 The recent partnership between Fanatics Collect and Sotheby’s is set to offer unparalleled benefits for sellers looking to maximize their collections. pic.twitter.com/jrtEkMSTV2
— Fanatics (@Fanatics) June 11, 2024
Through this collaboration, Fanatics Collect and Sotheby’s will showcase a curated selection of the most coveted trading cards on the market. These rare gems will be available for purchase through a series of dedicated live and online auctions hosted by Sotheby’s, a renowned auction house known for its expertise in fine art and collectibles. In 2022, Sotheby’s officially launched its sports and modern collectables department, which has since achieved numerous world records, particularly for game-worn memorabilia.
“This unique partnership is a reflection of the elevated status and cultural impact of the hobby and gives these highly sought-after cards incredible reach and visibility to potential collectors around the world,” says Nick Bell, CEO of Fanatics Collect. “We’re truly excited to be able to pair our knowledge in high-end sports cards with Sotheby’s unrivaled expertise in storytelling across exceptional fine art and objects.”
The first live auction, scheduled for September in New York, will feature a 1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson rookie card, graded PSA 8. It’s estimated sell between $275,000 and $350,000. The 1948 Leaf set is highly prized by collectors for its vibrant colors, iconic design, and a checklist filled with Hall of Famers and post-war returnees.
What sets this particular Jackie Robinson card apart is its exceptional condition. Out of 1,791 cards graded by PSA, only eight surpass its impressive grade of 8.
“We are thrilled to partner with Fanatics Collects to pioneer the evolution of the trading card market to new heights,” notes Brahm Wachter, head of modern collectables at Sotheby’s. “Through high-end auctions, state-of-the-art exhibitions, and exhilarating events, this collaboration marks a significant milestone within the ever-growing and engaged trading card community. We eagerly anticipate ushering promising collectors into an exciting new era of innovation and accessibility.”
The next chapter for trading cards is here! https://t.co/y0jCXIcld5
Sotheby’s and @Fanatics will collaborate on a series of dedicated live and online auctions showcasing the rarest and most covetable trading cards across all sports on the market, valued at $100,000 and above.
— Sotheby’s (@Sothebys) June 11, 2024
Alongside the launch of Fanatics Collect, Fanatics is moving on from the PWCC brand, with all services previously provided by PWCC now falling under the Fanatics Collect umbrella. This includes fixed-price listings, auctions, marketplace listings, vaulting, and authentication. The platform aims to create a trusted and dynamic environment for collectors to explore and acquire a wide range of collectibles.
As the partnership between Fanatics and Sotheby’s takes shape, collectors and potential owners are encouraged to express interest in the upcoming auctions by registering at www.sothebys.com/fanatics. More information about Fanatics Collect can be found at www.fanaticscollect.com.