The Legendary Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” Player Sample Heads to Sotheby’s Auction
November 28, 2024
The Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” has long been a holy grail for sneaker collectors, but Sotheby’s is taking it to the next level with a rare, unworn player sample featuring Michael Jordan’s signature on the tongue. While a 1985 pair of Chicago 1s in good condition can fetch around $2,000 on the resale market, Sotheby’s is betting this one-of-a-kind piece of basketball history will sell for $80,000 to $120,000.
This extraordinary offering is part of Sotheby’s “Genesis” collection, curated to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Michael Jordan’s signature line and his legendary rookie NBA season. Alongside the Chicago 1 sample, the collection includes other rare gems, such as a pair of game-worn Jordan 8 “Playoffs” from the 1993 NBA Finals and “Cardinal” Jordan 7s worn during a 64-point performance against Shaquille O’Neal and the Orlando Magic.
A Closer Look at the Player Sample Air Jordan 1 “Chicago”
The featured pair of Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” in the Genesis collection is a player sample with fascinating details. The left shoe is a size 13, and the right—a half-size larger at 13.5—aligns with Michael Jordan’s exact sizing preferences during his playing days. Adding to its allure is Jordan’s signature on the right tongue, one of the cleanest autographs ever seen on a shoe from this era.
Despite being nearly four decades old, the pair has been preserved in remarkable condition. Sotheby’s image gallery reveals minimal oxidation on the midsoles, with the leather and signature looking pristine. Whoever has cared for these sneakers over the years deserves credit for maintaining their near-mint state, making them a crown jewel for collectors.
The Genesis Collection: A Celebration of Legacy
Sotheby’s Genesis collection is a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of the Air Jordan line. Launched in 1984 and debuted on-court during Jordan’s rookie season in 1985, the Air Jordan brand revolutionized the sneaker industry and remains a cultural icon.
The Genesis collection doesn’t stop at the Chicago 1s. Other standout pieces include:
•Game-Worn Jordan 8 “Playoffs”: Worn by Michael Jordan during the 1993 NBA Finals, these shoes were part of his historic championship run with the Chicago Bulls.
•Jordan 7 “Cardinal”: A pair worn during a standout 64-point game against Shaquille O’Neal’s Orlando Magic, further cementing Jordan’s reputation as a scoring machine.
These one-of-a-kind items highlight not only the performance excellence of Michael Jordan but also the craftsmanship and cultural significance of his signature footwear.
Sotheby’s Auction Details
For those with deep pockets and a passion for basketball history, the Genesis auction will be open for bidding from December 2nd to December 16th. The signed Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” is expected to command a final price between $80,000 and $120,000.
With its unparalleled condition, iconic status, and Michael Jordan’s signature, this player sample is more than a collectible—it’s a piece of sports history. Whether you’re a seasoned sneaker collector or a Jordan fan, the Sotheby’s Genesis collection offers a chance to own a slice of greatness.
No comments yet.
