The world of collectibles welcomes a new contender in the auction block with the rising interest in graded magazines, notably highlighted by Certified Collectibles Group (CGC) and their exceptional work in grading over 28,000 issues of Sports Illustrated (SI). With a history dating back 15 years, CGC has become a cornerstone for collectors seeking to preserve and showcase pieces of sports history in pristine condition.
One particular highlight that has caught the attention of enthusiasts and investors alike is the record-breaking CGC 9.9 grade awarded to a December 2022 issue of Sports Illustrated featuring the renowned soccer star Kylian Mbappé just ahead of the 2022 World Cup. This unique grading milestone, marking the first SI issue to receive a 9.9 grade, has set the stage for a potential new record in magazine grading valuation. The magazine is currently up for auction through Goldin, a platform embracing the allure and investment potential of graded magazines by establishing a dedicated category for these esteemed collectibles.
The elevated appeal of these graded magazines extends beyond sports fans, drawing in individuals with an appreciation for photography, as many iconic covers of SI have been crafted by renowned photographers over the years. The extraordinary attention received by the Mbappé issue further solidifies the niche market these graded magazines have carved out within the broader sphere of collectibles.
As the auction for the CGC 9.9 graded Sports Illustrated of Kylian Mbappé progresses towards its closing date on June 8, the bidding war has already reached substantial heights, with the current top bid standing at an impressive $1,708. However, this prestigious auction doesn’t stop there, featuring a diverse array of collectibles, including a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded at 8.5, a unique 1956 Floyd Patterson card graded at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids showcasing Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a prized 1967 signed Muhammad Ali cover.
While the majority of graded magazines find their way to eager buyers through platforms like eBay, where over 6,000 listings can be found, the appeal of these collectibles has also translated into significant sales at specialized auctions. Recent examples include a CGC 9.6 graded issue of soccer legend Pele from 1975 fetching an impressive $25,000 in March 2023, and a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 commanding over $11,000 in the past year. Of note, the enduring popularity of basketball icon Michael Jordan is evident, with four of the top six highest-selling graded SIs on eBay in the last year featuring the legendary athlete on the cover.
The growing market for graded magazines not only showcases the diverse interests of collectors but also highlights the expanding scope of sports memorabilia as a viable investment avenue. With each graded magazine offering a unique blend of sports history, photography artistry, and investment potential, the allure of these coveted collectibles continues to captivate both seasoned collectors and newcomers in the ever-evolving world of memorabilia acquisitions.
