The world of collectibles has witnessed a fascinating trend in recent years, with graded magazines gaining substantial attention among enthusiasts and investors alike. While the market for graded comics and trading cards has long been established, the emergence of graded magazines, particularly coveted issues of Sports Illustrated, has carved out a unique niche in the realm of collectibles.
Certified Collectibles Group (CGC), a prominent authority in grading collectibles, ventured into the magazine grading arena 15 years ago. Since then, they have meticulously assessed over 28,000 issues of Sports Illustrated alone, reflecting a notable surge in interest surrounding these preserved pieces of sports history.
One of the most significant milestones in the graded magazine market was the sale of a 9.8 graded newsstand copy of the December 10, 1984 issue of Sports Illustrated, featuring basketball legend Michael Jordan in his Chicago Bulls debut. This iconic cover, titled “A Star is Born,” fetched a staggering $126,000, setting a record not only for Sports Illustrated but also for magazines in general. With over 2,000 SI issues graded at 9.8, this particular issue stands out as a symbol of the growing popularity of graded magazines.
However, the record for the highest price paid for a graded magazine may soon be challenged by a forthcoming auction. In a groundbreaking move, CGC recently bestowed a rare 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 issue of Sports Illustrated showcasing soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé just ahead of the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grade, a first for a Sports Illustrated issue, was awarded to a magazine submitted by a dedicated collector from the Midwestern region. The coveted issue, now up for auction through Goldin, has already garnered significant interest within the collector community.
Goldin, recognizing the potential of graded magazines as a burgeoning market segment, has established a dedicated category for these prized items. According to the Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography at Goldin, the appeal of graded magazines extends beyond sports enthusiasts to include those with an appreciation for photography, as many renowned photographers have contributed to the iconic covers of Sports Illustrated over the years.
The auction featuring the 9.9 graded issue of Sports Illustrated with Kylian Mbappé also includes a diverse array of other notable memorabilia. Among the highlights are a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded at 8.5, a rare 1956 Floyd Patterson card graded at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids edition featuring Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967, showcasing the breadth of collectibles available to enthusiasts.
While a significant number of graded magazines are typically sold through online platforms like eBay, where enthusiasts can find over 6,000 listings, high-profile auctions also play a pivotal role in driving sales. For instance, a CGC 9.6 graded issue featuring soccer legend Pele from 1975 fetched a commendable $25,000 in March 2023, underscoring the demand for rare and well-preserved magazine issues. Similarly, a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 commanded a price exceeding $11,000 last year, demonstrating the enduring allure of sports memorabilia among collectors.
The surge in interest surrounding graded magazines, particularly coveted Sports Illustrated issues, speaks to the evolving landscape of sports collectibles as a viable investment avenue. As collectors and investors alike vie for these exceptional pieces of history, the market for graded magazines continues to flourish, appealing to a diverse range of enthusiasts with a passion for preserving and celebrating iconic moments in sports and pop culture.
