In an electrifying event for basketball enthusiasts and collectors alike, a set of six sneakers that were worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is about to hit the auction block. After being held privately for years, these iconic pieces of sports history are now poised to be sold to the highest bidder in an upcoming auction organized by prestigious auction house Sotheby’s. The highly anticipated auction, which opens on February 2nd, proudly presents these sneakers as part of a larger collection and boasts an impressive pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million.
The sneakers, famously known as The Dynasty Collection, were once cherished belongings of a private collector who acquired them from Tim Hallam, the public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during the team’s remarkable era of dominance in the 1990s. A unique tradition emerged where Jordan would present Hallam with one of his game-worn shoes after each Finals victory, leading to the formation of this extraordinary collection.
This remarkable collection, aptly named by Sotheby’s as The Dynasty Collection, showcases a range of Air Jordans that Jordan wore during his illustrious career, specifically during the Bulls’ championship years from 1991 through 1998. Each of the sneakers in the collection has been personally autographed by Michael Jordan, the Finals MVP in each of those championship series.
On display at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City, this collection captures the essence of Jordan’s style evolution and the advancements in sneaker technology over the years. It includes iconic models such as the Air Jordan VI (1991), inspired by Jordan’s love for his Porsche 911, the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992), the first model without Nike branding, the Air Jordan VIII (1993) featuring the innovative “x-strap” design, the beloved and legendary “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole, the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997), and the iconic “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), which early on reflected his connection to his Ferrari 550 Maranello.
Adding to the allure of this collection is a set of unique signed photographs that capture Jordan in the moments immediately following each championship win, wearing only one sneaker – the other already in Hallam’s possession. This lighthearted yet historic exchange between Jordan and Hallam further highlights the personal nature and the authentic connection of this collection to the basketball legend.
The authenticity and historical significance of these sneakers have undergone rigorous verification processes, including detailed certification and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by reputable experts such as CSG. This meticulous approach ensures that collectors can confidently acquire these coveted pieces of sports history.
This auction comes on the heels of the groundbreaking sale of another pair of Jordan’s sneakers worn during the 1998 Finals Game 2, which shattered records by selling for a staggering $2.2 million, the highest price ever paid for game-worn shoes. The upcoming auction of The Dynasty Collection is much more than a sports memorabilia event; it offers a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of basketball history, encompassing the remarkable legacy of one of the greatest athletes in the sport, Michael Jordan.
So, lace up your sneakers and get ready for a slam dunk at the upcoming Sotheby’s auction where Michael Jordan’s game-worn championship sneakers, part of The Dynasty Collection, await their new fortunate owner. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or a passionate collector, this auction is an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Michael Jordan’s legacy and bring a piece of basketball history into your own collection. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a truly priceless piece of sports history.
