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MLB’s Record Breakers: The Most Expensive Memorabilia Ever Sold

By
Kevin Canales
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Baseball fans are passionate about the game and show their love by collecting memorabilia linked to iconic moments and players. These items often sell for high prices, reflecting their rarity and historical significance. Here’s a rundown of the most expensive MLB memorabilia ever sold, showcasing the blend of sports history and the collectors’ world.

Key Takeaways
  • These items have fetched millions at auctions, from historic game tickets to legendary baseball cards.
  • Memorabilia associated with Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and others represent the sport’s rich history.
  • Each item tells a unique story of baseball’s past, immortalizing the achievements of its greatest players.

Jackie Robinson’s Debut Ticket Stub (1947) – $480K

The ticket stub from Jackie Robinson’s historic MLB debut in 1947 sold for a whopping $480K. This game marked the first time an African American played in the MLB, breaking color barriers and changing the sport forever. Only seven tickets from this game exist today, making it a rare and valuable piece of baseball history.

Hank Aaron’s 755th Home Run Baseball (1976) – $650K

Hank Aaron’s 755th home run ball, a symbol of his incredible career and record-setting achievement, sold for $650K. This baseball signifies Aaron’s last home run, marking the end of a legendary stint in the MLB.

Barry Bonds’ 756th Home Run Baseball (2007) – $752K

Surpassing Hank Aaron’s record, Barry Bonds’ 756th home run baseball fetched $752K by a fan. The ball represents a controversial but historic moment, as Bonds recorded the most home runs in league history.

Babe Ruth’s All-Star Game Ball (1933) – $805K

A baseball hit by Babe Ruth for the first home run in an All-Star game history sold for $805K. This piece is tied to one of baseball’s greatest players and a significant moment in All-Star game history.

Mark McGwire’s 70th Home Run Ball (1998) – $3 Million

Mark McGwire became a national hero when he hit his 70th home run in 1998. A fan caught the ball, and it was later bought by comic book artist Todd McFarlane for $3 million, setting a record for sports memorabilia at the time​​.

Laws of Baseball – $3.2 Million

The “Laws of Baseball” documents, which helped shape the modern game, fetched $3.2 million at auction by Daniel Lucius “Doc” Adams. These historical documents testify to the game’s early development and enduring appeal.

Babe Ruth’s 1920 Yankees Jersey – $4.42 Million

A 1920 Yankees jersey worn by Babe Ruth sold for $4.42 million, making it one of the most coveted pieces of MLB memorabilia. This jersey symbolizes the beginning of Ruth’s illustrious career with the Yankees.

Babe Ruth’s 1928-1930 Jersey – $5.64 Million

Another Babe Ruth jersey from the 1928-1930 seasons set the record by selling for $5.64 million. This period includes some of Ruth’s best years, further elevating the jersey’s value.

Honus Wagner T-206 Card – $7.25 Million

The T-206 Honus Wagner card, one of the rarest in sports card collecting, was sold for $7.25 million. Its scarcity and Wagner’s status as a baseball legend make it the “holy grail” of sports cards.

Mickey Mantle’s 1952 Topps Card – $12.6 Million

Topping the list, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sold for an astonishing $12.6 million. Its rarity and connection to Mantle, one of baseball’s most beloved figures, have made it the most expensive piece of MLB memorabilia ever sold.

Ultimately, these sales highlight the rich history of baseball and the deep connection fans and collectors have to the sport. Each item tells a story, preserving a moment in time that resonates with fans across generations.

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kevin canales
Kevin Canales
An adept sports news writer with over a decade in the industry, Kevin blends keen analysis with vivid storytelling. Recognized for in-depth coverage of diverse sports, from football to tennis, Kevin's pieces captivate fans while providing insider insights. A trusted voice in sports journalism, always on the pulse of the game.