In a remarkable event for basketball enthusiasts and collectors alike, a set of six sneakers worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is making its way to the auction block. After being privately held for years, these iconic pieces of sports history are now poised to be sold to the highest bidder in an upcoming auction organized by Sotheby’s. Scheduled to open on February 2nd, the auction features these sneakers as part of a larger collection and boasts an impressive pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million.
The sneakers, known as The Dynasty Collection, were initially owned by a private collector who acquired them from Tim Hallam, the public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during the team’s era of dominance in the 1990s. It became a tradition for Jordan to present Hallam with one of his game-worn shoes after each Finals victory, leading to the formation of this unique collection.
On display at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City, The Dynasty Collection spans the Bulls’ championship years from 1991 through 1998. Each sneaker in the collection has been personally autographed by Michael Jordan, the Finals MVP in each of those championship series.
Aptly named by Sotheby’s, The Dynasty Collection showcases various models of Air Jordans that Jordan wore during his illustrious career. It includes the Air Jordan VI (1991), inspired by Jordan’s Porsche 911, the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992), the first model without Nike branding, the Air Jordan VIII (1993) featuring the “x-strap” design, the iconic “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole, the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997), and the “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), an early prototype mirroring his Ferrari 550 Maranello.
Adding to the allure of this lot is a set of unique signed photographs capturing Jordan in the moments following each championship win, wearing only one sneaker – the other already in Hallam’s possession. This lighthearted yet historic exchange between Jordan and Hallam highlights the personal connection to this collection.
Each sneaker in The Dynasty Collection stands as a testament to Jordan’s evolving style and the advancements in sneaker technology over the years. The authenticity and history of these sneakers have undergone rigorous verification processes, including detailed certification and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by CSG and other experts.
This upcoming auction follows the groundbreaking sale of another pair of Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 Finals Game 2, which set a record by selling for $2.2 million, marking the highest price ever paid for game-worn shoes. The auction of The Dynasty Collection not only appeals to sports memorabilia enthusiasts but also presents a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of basketball history, embodying the legacy of one of the greatest athletes in the sport, Michael Jordan.
Don’t miss this unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. As these championship sneakers hit the auction block, they carry with them the excitement, the triumphs, and the iconic moments that defined Michael Jordan’s unrivaled career. Prepare to place your bids and be part of the legacy that is The Dynasty Collection.
