© Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Michael Jordan's "The Dynasty Collection" sells at auction for $8 million
Michael Jordan’s incredibly rare collection of sneakers he wore in each of his NBA title-clinching wins, was finally sold via an auction for an eye-popping $8 million. Dubbed “The Dynasty Collection” by auction house Sotheby’s, the collection was bought in New York City for the aforementioned price, which set the record for the most expensive game-worn sneakers sold.
Additionally, the $8 million that the buyer ponied up for the “Dynasty Collection” is the second-highest price for Jordan memorabilia, trumped only for the $10.1 million price tag of His Airness’ game-worn 1998 NBA Finals Game 1 jersey.
Jordan’s lasting impact
More than two decades have passed since Jordan laced up his sneakers in an NBA game. However, his impact continues to resonate today, not just in the world of basketball but in popular culture as well. From his iconic “Jumpman” logo to his famous catchphrase, “It's gotta be the shoes,” Jordan has cemented himself as a household name and global brand.
"Today’s record-breaking price is a testament to the GOAT. The Dynasty Collection undeniably ranks among the most significant compilations of sports memorabilia in history," Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectables, said.
"Serving as both a reminder of Michael Jordan's lasting impact on the world and a tangible expression of his recognized legendary status, its significance is further validated by this monumental result. A truly unparalleled moment and milestone in auction history, the sale of these six championship-clinching sneakers will likely never be replicated."
Went on a world tour
This group of Air Jordan sneakers features iconic models worn by MJ himself during his six championship runs with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s. Included are the “Infrared” Air Jordan 6, “Charcoal” Air Jordan 7, “Playoff” Air Jordan 8, “Bred” Air Jordan 11, “Playoff” Air Jordan 12, and the “Last Shot” Air Jordan 14. Each shoe is not only autographed by Jordan but also represents a significant piece of basketball history.
Before the rare set was purchased, it went on a tour across the world, getting displayed in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai. Wachter believes the “Dynasty Collection” is the “Mona Lisa” of sneaker and sports memorabilia collecting.
“While they are two distinct communities, they converge here with The Dynasty Collection. They also represent the intersection of Jordan’s championship legacy and his style legacy, both of which have combined to make him a global icon. Because of the historical and cultural impact that they represent, as a group, they are among the most important basketball shoes a collector could own,” Wachter added.
