In a thrilling auction event leading up to Super Bowl Sunday, Johnny Unitas’ prized Super Bowl V ring from the Baltimore Colts’ victory achieved an impressive sale price of $258,500. This auction, part of the 17th annual Super Bowl Auction held in Las Vegas, showcased various items from the legendary Hall of Fame quarterback’s illustrious career, all consigned by his family. Despite an early exit from the game against the Dallas Cowboys due to injury, Unitas’ memorabilia, including his Super Bowl ring, garnered significant interest and attracted high bids.
What is truly remarkable is that the auction price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring outshone his 1958 NFL championship ring by a staggering $100,000. The latter ring commemorated his pivotal role in the iconic overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game that is forever etched in the annals of professional football’s history as a turning point that elevated its national stature.
Alongside the Super Bowl rings, other items from Unitas’ storied career were also auctioned off. His Hall of Fame ring, symbolizing his exemplary contributions to the sport, fetched an impressive $38,175. Furthermore, his 1967 NFL MVP award, recognizing his outstanding performance during that season, attracted a winning bid of $64,625. Adding to the excitement, a pair of Unitas’ signature high-top cleats found a new owner for the price of $27,025.
Matching the top sale price of Unitas’ Super Bowl ring was a game-worn jersey by the legendary Tom Brady from 2014. This jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, commanded the same amount of $258,500. It represented a season where Brady secured his fourth out of his seven Super Bowl titles, solidifying his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
The auction also showcased items from Anthony Munoz, the esteemed Hall of Fame offensive lineman. A game-worn Cincinnati Bengals jersey from the 1980s, reflecting Munoz’s skill and dedication, fetched a significant sum of $16,450. Additionally, the uniform from Munoz’s final NFL game realized a noteworthy $11,456, serving as a testament to his illustrious and enduring career.
Other notable sales included a 2023 game-worn jersey by rising star Brock Purdy, which sold for an impressive $30,550. The auction also featured a game-worn jersey by the electrifying 2022 MVP Lamar Jackson, which fetched $22,325. Football enthusiasts also had the opportunity to own a piece of history with the sale of a 1980s Ronnie Lott game-worn helmet for $19,975, a 1997 Dan Marino game-worn jersey for $17,625, and a game-used Super Bowl XXXVIII football for $14,100.
This auction highlighted the enduring legacy and immense value that memorabilia from football legends hold. Collectors and fans alike eagerly flocked to the event to lay their hands on a piece of sports history, underscoring the timeless allure and fascination surrounding these iconic items. Whether it’s a Super Bowl ring, a championship ring, or a game-worn jersey, these artifacts serve as tangible representations of the indelible mark these football legends have left on the sport.
