The Biggest Collectible Sales of 2024: Record-Breakers and Must-Have Highlights

As we wrap up 2024, it’s time to reflect on the standout moments and record-breaking sales that defined the collectibles market this year. From iconic movie memorabilia to jaw-dropping NFT sales, here’s a roundup of the highlights that had collectors buzzing.

1. The 1979 Kenner Rocket-Firing Boba Fett J-Slot (V2)

One of the most iconic Star Wars toys, the 1979 Kenner Rocket-Firing Boba Fett J-Slot (V2), sold for an astounding $1,342,000. This action figure is the holy grail for Star Wars collectors, not just because of its rarity but also due to its legendary recall story—a toy that was too dangerous for kids but irresistible to collectors.

Star Wars collectibles have always been a mainstay in the market, but this sale was a reminder of how nostalgia and scarcity can send values soaring into the stratosphere. With new Star Wars series and movies on the horizon, it’s safe to say the Force will remain strong in 2025.

2. Babe Ruth’s Jersey (Called Shot)

When Babe Ruth pointed his bat and called his shot in the 1932 World Series, he cemented himself as a legend of legends. This year, his jersey from that iconic moment sold for a jaw-dropping $24 million, becoming one of the most expensive pieces of sports memorabilia ever.

This sale wasn’t just about the fabric—it was a tangible link to a moment in sports history that transcends generations. With baseball cards and memorabilia from the early 20th century continuing to set records, Babe Ruth’s legacy proves as timeless as ever.

3. Caitlin Clark’s Signed Rookie Card

The 2024 Panini Select WNBA Signatures Gold Vinyl #SG-CC Caitlin Clark Signed Rookie Card (#1/1) turned heads when it sold for $234,850. As the first WNBA rookie card to break six figures, this sale underscores the rising popularity of women’s sports in the collectibles world.

Clark’s meteoric rise in basketball has energized the hobby, inspiring a wave of collectors to seek out WNBA and women’s soccer memorabilia. 2025 could see even more groundbreaking sales in this space.

4. Gold Skin Pudgy Penguins NFT

The NFT world saw a glittering moment when the Gold Skin Pudgy Penguins NFT sold for a hefty 40 ETH (~$153,687.60 USD). This marked a high point for the Pudgy Penguins project, a beloved collection in the NFT community that bridges adorable designs with cutting-edge blockchain technology.

What makes this sale particularly exciting is the evolving narrative around NFTs. As projects expand into physical collectibles, gaming, and even licensing, the line between digital and physical collectibles blurs—a trend we’re sure to see more of next year.

5. Rob Liefeld’s Original Art from 'New Mutants' No. 98

Deadpool fans, rejoice! Rob Liefeld’s original art from 'New Mutants' No. 98, the first appearance of Deadpool, fetched $960,000. This wasn’t just any piece of comic art—it was the birth of the Merc with a Mouth, one of Marvel’s most beloved antiheroes.

With Deadpool 3 releasing in 2024, this sale feels perfectly timed. Comic art continues to be a dynamic and valuable niche within the collectibles market, drawing in both hardcore fans and investors.

6. Shohei Ohtani’s 50th Home Run Baseball

Shohei Ohtani, baseball’s modern-day Babe Ruth, shattered records once again when his 50th home run baseball sold for an astronomical $4,392,000. This sale cemented Ohtani’s place not just as a generational talent but as a global phenomenon whose memorabilia is now a must-have.

The dual-threat pitcher and slugger continues to rewrite the rules of baseball and the collectibles market. Could 2025 bring even more record-breaking sales from Ohtani’s growing list of accolades?

7. John Buscema’s Wolverine Artwork

The claws came out for this sale! John Buscema’s original artwork for the first issue of 1988’s #Wolverine solo series sold for $600,000. As the first solo outing for one of Marvel’s most iconic characters, this piece represents a milestone in comic history.

Buscema’s dynamic artistry has long been celebrated, and this sale reflects a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship that brought Wolverine’s gritty, feral world to life. With new X-Men films on the horizon, could Logan steal the spotlight again?

8. CGC 9.6 Copy of Fantastic Four #1

A CGC 9.6 copy of Fantastic Four #1 (Marvel, 1961) with white pages sold for $2,040,000. This landmark comic introduced the world to Marvel’s First Family and laid the groundwork for the modern Marvel Universe.

High-grade copies of key Silver Age comics continue to dominate auctions, and this sale is no exception. With the Fantastic Four poised to enter the MCU, expect their collectibles to reach new heights.

9. CryptoPunk #7804

CryptoPunk #7804, one of the rarest and most coveted NFTs, sold for a jaw-dropping $16.42 million on March 20, 2024. As a pioneer in the NFT space, CryptoPunks remain a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for digital art.

This sale not only reinforced the value of early NFT projects but also highlighted the growing mainstream acceptance of digital collectibles. Will 2025 see new contenders challenge the CryptoPunks’ throne?

10. Honus Wagner T206 Baseball Card

The Honus Wagner T206 Baseball Card, often called the Mona Lisa of sports cards, continued its reign by selling for $6.5 million. Its storied history, from tobacco company origins to its extreme rarity, makes it a perennial favorite among collectors.

Each sale of this card is a reminder of why the T206 set remains the pinnacle of sports card collecting. As new record sales unfold, the Wagner card’s legacy only grows.

2024 was undeniably a monumental year for the collectibles market, blending nostalgia, innovation, and record-breaking moments. From vintage treasures to cutting-edge NFTs, the breadth of this year’s highlights demonstrates the incredible passion of the collecting community.

Before we go, we want to take a moment to thank every single one of you who subscribed to and supported Nerdcave77 this year. Your enthusiasm, engagement, and love for all things collectibles make everything we do worthwhile.

Next year, we’re committed to delivering even more value with deeper insights, exciting news, and ongoing giveaways that keep the collecting spirit alive. We can’t wait to share what’s in store for 2025—there are some surprises you won’t want to miss!

The best part? We’re just getting started. 2025 promises more surprises, new grails, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, the world of collectibles has something for everyone.

So, what were your favorite highlights this year? Let us know on X, and don’t forget to subscribe to Nerdcave'77 for all your collectible news and giveaways! Here’s to another year of chasing the rare, the remarkable, and the downright magical.