The allure of graded magazines, particularly those of Sports Illustrated, has been steadily gaining traction in the collectibles scene. Certified Collectibles Group (CGC), a pioneer in the magazine grading space for the past 15 years, has appraised over 28,000 issues of the iconic sports publication, reflecting a burgeoning interest in these preserved relics of athletic history.
Breaking historical precedents, the highest price ever fetched for a graded issue of Sports Illustrated – or any magazine, for that matter – was $126,000. This milestone was achieved by a pristine 9.8 graded newsstand copy of the December 10, 1984, edition featuring the legendary Michael Jordan debuting for the Chicago Bulls. Titled “A Star is Born,” this cover is just one among the more than 2,000 SI issues graded at 9.8.
However, a new contender is poised to challenge this record, ushering in a potential turning point in magazine grading history. In a groundbreaking move, CGC bestowed a perfect 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 Sports Illustrated issue showcasing soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé right before the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grade was accorded to a magazine submitted by a collector from the American Midwest, marking the first instance of an SI issue receiving a flawless 9.9 rating. The said issue, now on the auction block through Goldin, has been generating considerable buzz within the collector community. Recognizing the mounting interest in graded magazines, Goldin has even introduced a distinct category dedicated solely to these prized items.
As articulated by Goldin’s Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography, the appeal of these graded magazines transcends mere sports enthusiasts, attracting photography aficionados as well. Over the years, numerous esteemed photographers have lent their talent to craft the iconic covers of Sports Illustrated, further enhancing their aesthetic value.
The featured issue spotlighting Mbappé is one of two versions produced, with the alternative cover showcasing the US soccer team. As the auction proceeds towards its culmination on June 8, the bid for the Mbappé cover has already soared to an impressive $1,708.
The auction lineup doesn’t stop there, with other noteworthy items also up for grabs, 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 edition starring Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967.
While a significant portion of graded magazines changes hands through online platforms like eBay, boasting over 6,000 active listings, substantial sales also transpire at specialized auctions. For instance, a CGC 9.6 graded issue showcasing soccer maestro Pele from 1975 secured a staggering $25,000 in March 2023, while a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 raked in over $11,000 last year. Noteworthy is the fact that four out of the top six highest-selling graded SIs on eBay in recent times prominently featured Michael Jordan on the cover, underscoring the enduring appeal of the basketball icon.
The burgeoning interest in graded magazines epitomizes the diverse tastes of collectors and the ever-expanding realm of sports memorabilia as a viable investment avenue.
