Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Jersey Sells for Record $14 Million
A game-worn and autographed Michael Jordan jersey from the 1998 NBA Finals has been sold for a record $14 million, marking the highest price ever paid for basketball memorabilia.
Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, October 12, 2026 — A significant piece of basketball history has achieved a new record in the memorabilia market. A jersey worn by NBA legend Michael Jordan during the 1998 NBA Finals, which also bears his autograph, has been sold for $14 million. This transaction sets a new benchmark, representing the highest price ever recorded for any basketball memorabilia item at auction or sale.
The jersey is directly linked to a pivotal moment in Jordan’s career and the legacy of the Chicago Bulls dynasty. The 1998 NBA Finals marked Jordan’s sixth and final championship with the Bulls, a series often remembered for its high stakes and dramatic conclusion. Details regarding the specific game or games the jersey was worn in were not provided in the sale announcement, nor was the identity of the buyer or seller made public. Auction houses or private sale facilitators typically handle such high-value transactions, though specific details about the platform used for this sale were not disclosed.
The record-breaking sale underscores the enduring market demand for artifacts associated with highly influential athletes. Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, continues to command immense interest from collectors and enthusiasts. His career achievements, including six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and numerous other accolades, have cemented his status in sports history and fueled the value of his associated memorabilia.
This sale surpasses previous records for basketball memorabilia. While specific prior record holders were not detailed in the sale announcement, the $14 million figure signifies a substantial leap in valuation. The market for sports memorabilia, particularly items connected to iconic figures and landmark events, has seen considerable growth in recent years, with high-profile pieces frequently achieving multi-million dollar figures. The authenticity of such items is typically verified through rigorous authentication processes, which are crucial for validating their value to collectors.
The 1998 NBA Finals jersey, in addition to being game-worn, is also autographed, further enhancing its desirability and value. Autographs from Jordan are highly sought after, and when combined with an item with significant game-use provenance, the appeal is amplified for collectors seeking to own a piece of sports history directly tied to the athlete’s peak performance and achievements.
Story summarized from the original created by TIM REYNOLDS, Associated Press on www.wnct.com, see more information here.
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