Sotheby's and Fanatics Launch Trading Card Auction Collaboration

Fanatics and Sotheby’s have announced a new collaboration to offer collectors access to the rarest trading cards across all sports on the market valued at $100,000 and above.

The partnership coincides with the announcement of Fanatics Collect, a new collectibles marketplace that will connect buyers and sellers of trading cards and memorabilia through fixed-priced listings and dedicated live and online
auctions hosted by Sotheby’s. The venture is a new addition to Sotheby's sports and modern collectables department, a category the auction house officially launched in 2022.

The first live auction will be held this September in New York, including a 1948 Leaf #79 Jackie Robinson card (PSA 8), estimated between $275,000 and $350,000. This legendary card is the only true rookie card of the baseball idol and is featured in one of the most iconic sets of the post-war era. Known for its vibrant colors and design, the 1948 Leaf has long been a favorite of collectors. This card is in exceptional condition. A further online auction is scheduled for December.

“This unique partnership is a reflection of the elevated status and cultural impact of the hobby and gives these highly sought-after cards incredible reach and visibility to potential collectors around the world,” said Fanatics Collect CEO, Nick Bell. “We’re truly excited to be able to pair our knowledge in high-end sports cards with Sotheby’s unrivaled expertise in storytelling across exceptional fine art and objects.

Alongside the launch of Fanatics Collect, Fanatics is retiring the PWCC brand. All services previously provided by PWCC – including auctions, marketplace listing, vaulting and authentication – will now be provided under the Fanatics Collect brand. The platform launches with a reimagined fixed-price marketplace experience, in addition to weekly and monthly auctions. Later this year, Fanatics Collect will introduce a range of new updates, including peer-to-peer trading, AI-powered concierge services, card scanning and digital collectibles.

Collectors can express interest in the first Sotheby’s and Fanatics Collect auction by registering here.