In an unprecedented display of sports memorabilia fandom, the final NFL jersey worn by legendary quarterback Tom Brady has set a new record at a Sotheby’s auction. The jersey, which Brady donned during the second half of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff defeat against the Dallas Cowboys on January 16, 2022, fetched an astounding $1,391,000. This staggering price surpasses all previous sales for an NFL game-worn jersey, solidifying Brady’s status as a sports icon.
Although the final sale price fell slightly short of pre-auction estimates, which ranged from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, it still managed to exceed the previous record held by a Joe Montana Super Bowl jersey, which sold for $1.2 million. The demand for Brady memorabilia continues to reach unprecedented heights, as fans and collectors scramble to own a piece of one of the greatest quarterbacks to have ever played the game.
The highly anticipated auction took place amidst the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, adding an element of glamour and prestige to the event. Alongside the iconic jersey, the auction also featured an array of cars and racing collectibles, creating a unique experience for sports and automotive enthusiasts alike.
Brady, who retired after an impressive 23-season career on February 1, 2022, left an indelible mark on the sport. During his final NFL appearance, he showcased his exceptional talent by throwing for a remarkable 351 yards, surpassing the previous record for the highest yardage by any player in their final playoff game. This last game-worn jersey serves as a poignant reminder of Brady’s unmatched skill and enduring legacy.
The size 44 Nike jersey displayed at the auction is a true collector’s item. Adorned with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ team emblem and a captain’s patch, it bears authentic signs of game play, including grass stains, adding to its undeniable authenticity and charm. Moreover, the jersey features Brady’s signature, making it a highly coveted item for any die-hard fan or serious collector.
What makes this particular jersey even more remarkable are the unique notations that Brady himself added. With the words “My Last Game” and “GOAT Out!” inscribed, the jersey holds a special significance, symbolizing the end of an era and Brady’s status as the greatest of all time.
This is not the first time a Tom Brady jersey has fetched an exceptional price at auction. Earlier this fall, his 700th career touchdown pass jersey was sold for $1.2 million, with the proceeds going to charity. Each sale serves as a testament to the enduring popularity and admiration bestowed upon Brady by fans and collectors worldwide.
Despite the staggering success of the auction, the provenance of the jersey remains shrouded in mystery. Sotheby’s has confirmed that the jersey was sold privately before making its way to the auction block. The intricate details of its journey from Brady’s possession to the hands of the winning bidder have been kept under wraps, adding a sense of intrigue to an already captivating tale.
In conclusion, Tom Brady’s final game-worn jersey has made history once again, breaking the record for the highest-selling NFL game-worn jersey at a staggering $1,391,000. This remarkable sale further cements Brady’s status as a sports legend and solidifies his place in the hearts of fans and collectors alike. The jersey, adorned with team emblems, signs of game play, and Brady’s signature, holds immense sentimental value and serves as a timeless reminder of the quarterback’s unparalleled talent and contributions to the sport.
