A 2004-05 Panini Mega Cracks Lionel Messi rookie card -- assessed a perfect 10 by card grader Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) -- has sold for $1.5 million through Fanatics Collect's fledgling private sales network. It's the most ever paid for a soccer card, surpassing the $1.33 million paid for a 1958 Alfiabolaget Pele card in a private sale in 2022.
"He'll go and watch videos of these players," David says, "like 'Best Plays of Ken Griffey Jr. Ever.' Just introducing him to those old players from my childhood is more important than finding a Griffey Star Rubies. It's him getting to know the players that I used to know and love."
An autographed Caitlin Clark Logowoman rookie card sold for $660,000 at auction, nearly doubling the record for a women's card. This 1-of-1 card is notable for both its rarity and the premium associated with signed memorabilia. It was auctioned shortly after being pulled live from an online marketplace. Previously, the record was $366,000 for another Clark card. Another similar card is also up for auction and may challenge the new record.