The allure of graded magazines, especially those of Sports Illustrated (SI), has captured the attention of collectors and investors alike, carving out a unique slice in the realm of collectibles. Certified Collectibles Group (CGC), a pioneer in the grading of magazines for the past 15 years, has appraised over 28,000 SI issues, reflecting a surging fascination with these preserved relics of sports history.
Embarking on a journey through the records, the pinnacle of magazine grading was once marked by a $126,000 sale. The unprecedented feat was achieved by a 9.8 graded newsstand edition of the December 10, 1984 issue, featuring the iconic debut of Michael Jordan in a Chicago Bulls jersey. Titled “A Star is Born,” this cover represents one of the 2,000+ SI issues that have earned a 9.8 grade.
However, the reigning record might soon face a formidable challenge with a groundbreaking milestone in magazine grading. In an extraordinary move, CGC bestowed a pristine 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 edition of SI, spotlighting soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé just ahead of the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grade, bestowed upon a magazine submitted by a passionate collector from the Midwest, marks the first-ever SI issue to clinch a perfect 9.9 rating. Currently listed for auction through Goldin, this rare gem has already ignited considerable buzz, with Goldin having specifically categorized graded magazines for heightened visibility.
The enchantment of these graded magazines transcends mere sports fandom, extending to photography enthusiasts who appreciate the contributions of acclaimed photographers to these iconic covers over the years.
Among the noteworthy items at the ongoing auction is a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded at 8.5, a unique 1956 Floyd Patterson card rated at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids edition featuring Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967.
While a significant volume of graded magazines changes hands on eBay, with over 6,000 listings available, notable transactions also unfold at specialized auctions. For instance, a CGC 9.6 graded issue showcasing soccer legend Pele from 1975 was sold for $25,000 in March 2023, while a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 commanded over $11,000 the previous year. Particularly striking is the dominance of Michael Jordan, with four of the top six best-selling graded SI issues on eBay since last year featuring the basketball legend on the cover, underscoring his enduring popularity.
This burgeoning market for graded magazines underscores the eclectic tastes of collectors and the expanding landscape of sports memorabilia as a viable investment avenue. Venture into this captivating world of graded Sports Illustrated magazines to discover treasures that transcend time and fandom alike.
