In a thrilling auction event, preceding Super Bowl Sunday, Johnny Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring from the Baltimore Colts’ victory achieved an incredible sale price of $258,500. This auction, held in Las Vegas as part of the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction, featured several items from the Hall of Fame quarterback’s illustrious career, all consigned by his family. Despite an early exit due to injury in the game against the Dallas Cowboys, Unitas’ memorabilia, especially his Super Bowl ring, garnered significant interest and high bids.
What makes the auction even more remarkable is that the price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring soared past that of his 1958 NFL championship ring by over $100,000. The latter ring commemorated Unitas’ pivotal role in the iconic overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game that is often credited with elevating the national stature of professional football.
In addition to Unitas’ Super Bowl rings, other items from his career were included in the auction. His Hall of Fame ring fetched an impressive price of $38,175, highlighting the recognition of his contributions to the sport. Furthermore, his 1967 NFL MVP award, a testament to his exceptional skills, was sold for an impressive $64,625. A pair of Unitas’ signature high-top cleats, which undoubtedly carried him through many victories, also found a new owner for $27,025.
Equally capturing the attention of bidders was a game-worn jersey worn by Tom Brady in 2014, which also sold for $258,500. This iconic jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, represents the season where Brady secured his fourth of seven Super Bowl titles. It serves as a reminder of Brady’s extraordinary success and his place among the all-time football greats.
The auction also featured items from other football legends. Anthony Munoz, a Hall of Fame offensive lineman, found his game-worn 1980s Cincinnati Bengals jersey sell for a respectable $16,450. The uniform from his final NFL game, which marked the end of an illustrious career, realized $11,456, highlighting the sentimental value attached to such items.
Notable sales from other players included a 2023 Brock Purdy game-worn jersey, fetching an impressive $30,550, and a 2022 Lamar Jackson game-worn jersey, sold for $22,325. These jerseys represent the rising stars of the football world and have already become coveted collectibles. A game-worn helmet from Ronnie Lott, a legendary player from the 1980s, sold for $19,975, while a 1997 Dan Marino game-worn jersey found a new owner for $17,625.
One of the most intriguing items in the auction was a game-used Super Bowl XXXVIII football, which commanded a significant price of $14,100. This football carries the memories and energy of a historic Super Bowl, adding to its allure for collectors and fans alike.
Overall, this auction was a testament to the enduring legacy and value of memorabilia from football legends. It showcased the passion of collectors and fans, eager to own a piece of sports history and celebrate the achievements of their beloved players. With high bids and enthusiastic participation, the auction demonstrated the deep connection between football fans and their heroes, even long after they have left the playing field.
