A tennis racket used by Roger Federer in the 2011 French Open Final against Rafael Nadal sold for $55,350 late Sunday night as Goldin Auctions wrapped up its dual session October Legends Auction—one that established a new sports memorabilia industry record for total proceeds. In all, the sale of over 1,900 lots brought in over $16 million.
The auction’s main headliners sold Saturday night, with a low grade T206 Wagner card selling for over $1.4 million, establishing a new record for the grade. Numerous other lots broached the six-figure plateau including a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle that netted $584,250.
“For the past several years my goal has been to increase the both the user base of Goldin Auctions, as well as grow the business for the entire industry,” says Ken Goldin, founder and CEO of Goldin Auctions. “We have seen a tremendous increase in both the number of collectors in the hobby as well as a tremendous growth in our user base at Goldin Auctions.”
Goldin says his company also registered a record number of bidders, winning bidders and total bids.
Also sold in Sunday night’s session: a 2003-04 Upper Deck SPX #151 LeBron James Rookie Patch Autograph card (#650/750) graded BGS 10 that went for $44,280 and a 2004-05 Panini “Mega Cracks” Third Edition box possibly containing Lionel Messi rookie cards that hit the net at $31,980—the most ever paid for a box of soccer cards.
Federer’s racket included a letter of authenticity from his agent and Beckett Authentication for the autograph. The realized price of over $55,000 makes it the most expensive match-used racket ever sold.
Prices reflect a 23% buyer’s premium but the numbers drop by three percent if bidders pay by cashier’s check, money order, wire transfer or check.
Goldin’s next auction will take place in December with another high-end only event planned for January.
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