Tom Seaver's 1969 World Series ring headlines $1.8M memorabilia auction - ESPN

ESPN

by Dan Hajducky

March 4, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Tom Seaver's iconic 1969 World Series ring recently sold for a record-breaking $854,122 at Heritage Auctions, marking the highest price ever paid for any item related to the legendary Mets pitcher. This achievement also ranks as the third-highest sale for a sports championship ring in history. Seaver, who passed away in 2020 due to complications from Lewy body dementia and COVID-19, was a 12-time All-Star and three-time NL Cy Young Award winner. The auction, which included nearly 200 items consigned by his family, generated over $1.8 million in total sales. Among the other notable items sold were Seaver's 1973 Mets National League championship ring, which fetched $201,300, and his Baseball Hall of Fame induction plaque, sold for $170,800. Additional memorabilia included a Mets hat from late 1969 to early 1971 that sold for $79,300 and his 1967 BBWAA National League Rookie of the Year Award, which brought in $50,020. The auction also featured rings from Seaver's All-Star appearances in 1975 ($26,840) and 1981 ($22,570), as well as his 1986 American League championship ring with the Boston Red Sox, which sold for $31,720. A ring commemorating his 300th MLB victory with the Chicago White Sox in 1985 was purchased for $29,280. Chris Ivy, director of sports auctions at Heritage Auctions, explained that the timing was right for Seaver's family to part with these cherished items. "A lot of this stuff is sentimental and important to Tom's family," he said. "It’s always a tough decision, but ultimately, these items will go to people who will love, cherish, and display them." The sale not only highlights the enduring appeal of Seaver's legacy but also underscores the growing market for high-value sports memorabilia among collectors. For fans of baseball history, this auction serves as a reminder of Seaver's incredible career and his lasting impact on the game. The record-breaking sales also reflect the significance of owning pieces of sports history, connecting enthusiasts with the legends they admire. As Ivy noted, "What makes the most sense is to put [this memorabilia] out

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Originally published on ESPN on 3/4/2026