The unique Paul Skens rookie card commemorating his MLB debut sold at auction for $111 million, selling more money than Star Pitcher actually made that season.
64 bids were made on the card and were eventually sold after a two-week auction. The card also includes a patch that pitchers wore on their jerseys for their big league debut in May.
“The final price announced by the fanatics included 20% buyer premiums collected late Thursday night,” the AP said. Report. “Buyers have not been identified. Fans will collect plans to donate proceeds from sales to the LA Fire Relief Fund.”
“Patch Cards” are, as is known, part of the Topps Chrome update. They are becoming more popular, with 91 offerings in the first year of 2023 being offered in 251 in 2024.
However, none of the new cards have generated as much buzz as Skenes cards. Skenes is a great player, but his stardom and buzz could also be attributed to his girlfriend, social media influencer and LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne.
This card was created a route that went round back to the auction table. The Pirates made powerful early offers for it and raised prices.
“it was 11 year old claim The Associated Press reports that in the Los Angeles area, after discovering the redemption code for the Skens card in a pack he received as part of a Christmas present, he refused the Pirates offer and handed over the card to a collection of fanatics who instead gave the “White Glove” service for the past two months. ”
Last year, the Skens were 11-3 with Pittsburgh's 23 start and earned the National League Rookie of the Year honors with an ERA of 1.96.
Despite all the money swirling around his patch card, Skenes is set to make just $850,000 this season.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
