🏆This Retailer Bought Paul Skenes’ 1-of-1 Rookie Card for $1.11M — 2025’s Biggest Modern Card Sale

In a landmark moment for the sports collectibles world, Dick’s Sporting Goods has purchased a one-of-a-kind Paul Skenes rookie card for $1.11 million, marking the most expensive modern baseball card sale of 2025. The card—featuring a patch from Skenes’ MLB debut jersey and his autograph—is part of the 2024 Topps Chrome Update “MLB Debut Patch” series. It was sold via a two-week auction hosted by Fanatics Collect, drawing 64 bids before closing on March 20.

🧢 The Card: A 1-of-1 Rookie Masterpiece

This unique card includes a patch worn by Skenes during his major league debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates and is signed by the pitcher himself. It was originally pulled by an 11-year-old collector in Los Angeles on Christmas morning. Despite receiving a generous offer from the Pirates—including 30 years of season tickets and exclusive experiences—the young fan chose to auction the card instead.

💸 Why It Matters: A Record-Setting Modern Sale

The $1.11 million sale price surpasses Skenes’ own 2025 MLB salary of $875,000 and sets a new benchmark for modern baseball cards. It is the highest amount ever paid for a modern, non-Mike Trout baseball card, underscoring the growing market for contemporary sports collectibles .​

🏟️ Dick’s Plans for the Card

Dick’s Sporting Goods intends to display the card at its House of Sport store in Ross Park Mall, Pittsburgh. “Acquiring the Paul Skenes MLB Debut Patch card enables us to celebrate his incredible talent while giving our athletes a unique opportunity to experience a piece of baseball history up close,” said Ed Stack, Executive Chairman of Dick’s .​

🔥 The Hobby’s Hottest Card of 2025

This sale not only highlights the value of unique sports memorabilia but also reflects the increasing intersection between retail and the collectibles market. It stands as a testament to the booming interest in modern sports cards and the enduring appeal of baseball memorabilia.​AP News

📈 Implications for the Collecting World

This sale signifies a shift in the sports card market, where contemporary players' memorabilia can rival or surpass that of legendary figures. It also reflects the increasing interest and investment in sports collectibles as valuable assets.​

📝 Conclusion

The record-breaking sale of Paul Skenes' rookie card in 2025 marks a significant moment in sports collecting history. It exemplifies the growing enthusiasm and financial commitment within the hobby, setting a new benchmark for modern sports cards.​