Sotheby’s “The Great One” Auction Celebrates Wayne Gretzky’s Legacy
Sotheby’s “The Great One” auction spotlights Wayne Gretzky’s legendary career with rare memorabilia, including his final game-worn jersey.
Sotheby’s is set to honor one of the greatest athletes in sports history with The Great One, a dedicated auction highlighting the career of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. Scheduled for September 30, 2025, at Sotheby’s New York, the event is part of the auction house’s celebrated “Legends of Sport” series, which brings iconic memorabilia from history’s most accomplished athletes to the block.
Among the highlights is Gretzky’s “Final Career Game” jersey, a New York Rangers home sweater worn during his last NHL appearance on April 18, 1999, at Madison Square Garden. This is the jersey he wore in the second period, when he recorded his final career point: an assist. Gretzky later signed and inscribed the interior in black marker with the date “4/18/99.” Once part of MSG’s “Defining Moments” exhibit, the jersey comes with provenance from the Rangers and MeiGray photomatching authentication, ensuring its place as a crown jewel of hockey history.
Wayne Gretzky’s impact on hockey is unparalleled. Over his 20-year career in the NHL, he shattered record books, setting over 60 official league records — many of which remain untouched. Known for his vision, precision passing, and ability to elevate teammates, Gretzky won four Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, earned nine Hart Trophies as league MVP, and retired in 1999 as the all-time leader in goals, assists, and points. His number 99 jersey has been retired league-wide in tribute to his influence on the game.
The sale is part of Sotheby’s Legends of Sport series, which has spotlighted historic achievements across multiple disciplines through museum-quality memorabilia. The series has become a premier venue for collectors seeking to own a piece of sporting history by bringing together artifacts from athletes who defined their eras.
Sotheby’s The Great One auction pays homage to Gretzky’s career, underscoring the growing popularity of sports memorabilia in the collectibles market. Alongside Gretzky’s iconic jersey, the sale will feature other legendary pieces of sports history, including Kobe Bryant’s 1996 rookie jersey, Wilt Chamberlain’s 1972 game-worn jersey, and Jerry West’s 1970 Finals jersey. Collectors will even have the option to bid via cryptocurrency, reflecting the changing dynamics of the auction world. For hockey fans, basketball enthusiasts, and collectors alike, the event represents a rare opportunity to connect with the legacies of athletes whose names are synonymous with greatness.
You may also like: