In an extraordinary event for basketball enthusiasts and collectors alike, a remarkable set of six sneakers worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is about to hit the auction block. These iconic pieces of sports history, previously held privately, are now set to be sold to the highest bidder in an upcoming auction organized by the prestigious house of Sotheby’s. Opening on February 2nd, the auction presents these sneakers as part of a larger collection and carries an impressive pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million.
Known as The Dynasty Collection, these sneakers were once the cherished possession of a private collector who acquired them from Tim Hallam, the former public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during their dominant era in the 1990s. It became a special tradition for Jordan to gift Hallam one of his game-worn shoes after each Finals victory, ultimately resulting in the formation of this unique and coveted compilation.
The Dynasty Collection was recently displayed at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City, showcasing the remarkable span of the Bulls’ championship years, from 1991 through 1998. Each sneaker in the collection bears the personal autograph of Michael Jordan, the Finals MVP in every one of those legendary championship series.
Sotheby’s aptly named this collection The Dynasty Collection, as it features various models of Air Jordans that Jordan wore throughout his illustrious career. The collection includes the Air Jordan VI (1991), inspired by Jordan’s Porsche 911, the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992), the first model to not prominently display Nike branding, the Air Jordan VIII (1993) featuring the iconic “x-strap” design, the legendary “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole, the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997), and the early prototype known as the “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), which mirrors his beloved Ferrari 550 Maranello.
Adding to the allure of this extraordinary lot is a set of unique signed photographs, capturing Michael Jordan in the moments right after each championship win, wearing only one sneaker, with the other already resting in Tim Hallam’s possession. This light-hearted yet historic exchange between Jordan and Hallam serves to showcase the personal connection and significance behind this exceptional collection.
Every sneaker within The Dynasty Collection stands as a testament to Jordan’s evolving style and the advancements in sneaker technology throughout the years. The authenticity and historical provenance of these exceptional sneakers have undergone rigorous verification processes, including detailed certification and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by trusted experts such as CSG.
This auction comes on the heels of the historic sale of another pair of Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 Finals Game 2, which set a groundbreaking record by fetching a staggering $2.2 million, thus becoming the highest-priced game-worn shoes ever sold. The upcoming auction of The Dynasty Collection is more than just a sports memorabilia event; it presents an unparalleled opportunity to own a tangible piece of basketball history, encapsulating the enduring legacy of one of the greatest athletes to have ever graced the sport – Michael Jordan. Don’t miss your chance to delve into the legacy and greatness embodied by The Dynasty Collection.
