Record-Breaking Sale of Lionel Messi Rookie Card
In an unprecedented move within the sports memorabilia market, a 2004-05 Panini Mega Cracks rookie card featuring soccer superstar Lionel Messi has fetched a staggering $1.5 million. This significant transaction was facilitated through the private sales division of Fanatics Collect, which is gaining traction in the domain of high-end collectible sales. The card has attained a flawless grading of 10 by the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), underscoring its elite status among collectors.
New Benchmark in Soccer Card Transactions
This sale marks a new benchmark in soccer card transactions, surpassing the previous record of $1.33 million set by a 1958 Alifabolaget Pele card during a private auction held in 2022. Notably, this record-breaking deal occurred shortly after another identical Messi card, also graded a perfect 10, sold for $1.1 million through Goldin Auctions.
Fanatics Collect’s Private Sales Initiative
Fanatics Collect’s private sales initiative caters exclusively to premium transactions, requiring a minimum deal value of $10,000. Within its inaugural month of August, the program reportedly facilitated approximately 30 to 40 transactions, amassing a total of $8 million, indicating a burgeoning interest in high-value sports collectibles.
Rarity and Certification of the Messi Card
According to PSA’s population report, there are 838 graded cards of Messi from this iconic set, with only 20 achieving the coveted Gem-Mint 10 rating. The recent $1.5 million card is complemented by a certification from Mike Baker Authenticated Diamond, which collaborates with PSA, Beckett Grading Services, and Sportscard Guaranty Corporation. This certification is regarded as an indicator of exceptional condition, appealing to elite collectors in the market.
