In a historic auction at Sotheby’s, the final NFL jersey worn by legendary quarterback Tom Brady has sold for a staggering $1,391,000. This sale surpasses all previous records for an NFL game-worn jersey, making it a milestone moment for sports memorabilia collectors.
Brady donned the jersey during the second half of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff defeat against the Dallas Cowboys on January 16, 2022. While the final sale price fell short of the pre-auction estimates of $1.5 million to $2.5 million, it still managed to exceed the previous record of $1.2 million held by a Joe Montana Super Bowl jersey.
The auction took place amidst the excitement of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, adding an extra layer of anticipation and thrill for both bidders and onlookers. The event also showcased an array of cars and racing collectibles, creating a unique atmosphere for the auction.
Brady, who retired from professional football after an awe-inspiring 23 seasons on February 1, threw for an impressive 351 yards in his final NFL appearance. This yardage remains the highest achieved by any player in their last playoff game, cementing Brady’s legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
The size 44 Nike jersey, complete with the team emblem, captain’s patch, and signs of game play such as grass stains, holds a special significance for fans and collectors alike. Additionally, it bears Brady’s signature along with the notations “My Last Game” and “GOAT Out!”—a fitting tribute to his remarkable career as the greatest of all time.
This is not the first time Brady’s jerseys have commanded astronomical prices. Just a few months ago, his 700th career touchdown pass jersey was auctioned for charity, fetching an impressive $1.2 million. However, the provenance of the jersey sold at Sotheby’s remains shrouded in mystery. The auction house has confirmed that the jersey was sold privately before the auction, but the details of its journey from Brady to the auction block have not been disclosed.
The sale of Brady’s final game-worn jersey is a testament to his incredible impact on the sport of football and the admiration he has garnered from fans around the world. It highlights the growing market for sports memorabilia, where collectors are willing to pay top dollar for items associated with their favorite athletes and iconic moments in sports history.
As the curtain falls on Brady’s illustrious career, the legacy he leaves behind extends far beyond his on-field achievements. His jerseys, especially this final one, serve as tangible reminders of the greatness he embodied throughout his career. The record-breaking sale at Sotheby’s is a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of a true sporting legend.
