Ice Hockey
Except otherwise stated, all results include the premium.
See also : Sport II Olympic Games Sport cards Sport cards 1942-92
See also : Sport II Olympic Games Sport cards Sport cards 1942-92
1972 Team Canada Jersey of Paul Henderson
2010 SOLD for $ 1.27M by Classic Auctions
In 1972 the Soviets claim to be the supreme champions of ice hockey, sometimes threatened by the Czechoslovaks. The Canadians disagree : their professional teams are not allowed in amateur tournaments.
The Soviets accept the challenge. The matches between the two national teams take place in September, the first four in Canada and then four in Moscow, under the name of the Summit Series.
Both teams are at the best level and the eighth game is decisive. The Soviets scored more goals and a draw is enough for them to win the series. A score of 5-5 is therefore favorable to them. The tension is growing. 34 seconds before the end of the match, Paul Henderson scores the winning goal for a final 6-5.
The red and white number 19 jersey worn by Henderson for the four games played in Russia, including of course the triumphant goal, was sold for $ 1.27M by Classic Auctions on June 22, 2010. Here is the link to the post sale article by ESPN.
The Soviets accept the challenge. The matches between the two national teams take place in September, the first four in Canada and then four in Moscow, under the name of the Summit Series.
Both teams are at the best level and the eighth game is decisive. The Soviets scored more goals and a draw is enough for them to win the series. A score of 5-5 is therefore favorable to them. The tension is growing. 34 seconds before the end of the match, Paul Henderson scores the winning goal for a final 6-5.
The red and white number 19 jersey worn by Henderson for the four games played in Russia, including of course the triumphant goal, was sold for $ 1.27M by Classic Auctions on June 22, 2010. Here is the link to the post sale article by ESPN.
1979 GRETZKY Rookie Card
Intro
O-Pee-Chee was a candy maker based in London, Ontario. The company entered the baseball and ice hockey trading cards market in 1934. In 1958 an agreement is concluded with the US company Topps for coordinated operations. Topps cards have an English back and O-Pee-Chee cards are bilingual.
Wayne Gretzky is hockey's super-champion, and his rookie cards published in 1979 by both companies are avidly sought after by collectors. The O-Pee-Chee is the rarest.
The text on the back of the card announces the future great career of the champion : he is "the best prospect to turn professional since Guy Lafleur".
Gretzky had entered the NHL before the legal age of that league for a conjunctural cause. He had played the 1978-1979 season as a professional at 17 with the WHA which was absorbed at the end of that season by the NHL. The WHA had no age limit.
Wayne Gretzky is hockey's super-champion, and his rookie cards published in 1979 by both companies are avidly sought after by collectors. The O-Pee-Chee is the rarest.
The text on the back of the card announces the future great career of the champion : he is "the best prospect to turn professional since Guy Lafleur".
Gretzky had entered the NHL before the legal age of that league for a conjunctural cause. He had played the 1978-1979 season as a professional at 17 with the WHA which was absorbed at the end of that season by the NHL. The WHA had no age limit.
1
O-Pee-Chee Case
2024 SOLD for $ 3.7M by Heritage (unpaid)
2024 SOLD for $ 2.5M by Heritage
An O-Pee-Chee ice hockey sealed box just surfaced in Saskatchewan in a nearly immaculate condition. It is marked 1980 on a wall, which would anticipate a price around $ 50K.
It reserved a surprise to the specialists at BBCE in Indiana. It did not contain the 1980-1981 edition as supposed but the 1979-1980 that includes Wayne Gretzky's rookie card, its date referring to the year of the finals and not to the year of the issue.
The case contains 16 boxes of 48 packs each with 14 cards and one sticker per pack, for a total of 10,752 cards and 768 stickers. The whole series has 396 cards, so that about 27 rookie Gretzky cards in pristine condition are expected.
The case was sold for $ 3.7M by Heritage on February 24, 2024, lot 80052. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. It was consigned by the original owner who had intended to open it and build sets of cards to sell but simply never followed. Unpaid at that sale, it was sold by the same auction house for $ 2.5M on December 5, 2024, lot 81964.
It reserved a surprise to the specialists at BBCE in Indiana. It did not contain the 1980-1981 edition as supposed but the 1979-1980 that includes Wayne Gretzky's rookie card, its date referring to the year of the finals and not to the year of the issue.
The case contains 16 boxes of 48 packs each with 14 cards and one sticker per pack, for a total of 10,752 cards and 768 stickers. The whole series has 396 cards, so that about 27 rookie Gretzky cards in pristine condition are expected.
The case was sold for $ 3.7M by Heritage on February 24, 2024, lot 80052. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. It was consigned by the original owner who had intended to open it and build sets of cards to sell but simply never followed. Unpaid at that sale, it was sold by the same auction house for $ 2.5M on December 5, 2024, lot 81964.
2
O-Pee-Chee
2020 SOLD for $ 1.3M by Heritage
The population of Wayne Gretzky's rookie cards in PSA supreme grade Gem Mint 10 is two units for the O-Pee-Chee and two for the Topps. Heritage listed one example of each on December 10, 2020.
The O-Pee-Chee gem mint had been sold for $ 94K by SCP on May 1, 2011 and for $ 465K by Goldin on August 4, 2016, lot 25. It was then the only O-Pee-Chee Gretzky rookie card known in that grade. It was sold for $ 1.3M in the 2020 Heritage sale, lot 58423.
On May 27, 2021, Heritage reported that they brokered the other O-Pee-Chee gem mint card for $ 3.75M.
The O-Pee-Chee gem mint had been sold for $ 94K by SCP on May 1, 2011 and for $ 465K by Goldin on August 4, 2016, lot 25. It was then the only O-Pee-Chee Gretzky rookie card known in that grade. It was sold for $ 1.3M in the 2020 Heritage sale, lot 58423.
On May 27, 2021, Heritage reported that they brokered the other O-Pee-Chee gem mint card for $ 3.75M.
3
Topps
2022 SOLD for $ 1.2M by Heritage
Four 1979 rookie cards of Wayne Gretzky have been graded a perfect Gem Mint 10 by PSA, two of them by Topps and two by O-Pee-Chee.
One of the Topps was sold for $ 720K by Heritage on December 10, 2020, lot 58422. The other example was sold for $ 1.2M by Heritage on August 27, 2022, lot 53045.
One of the Topps was sold for $ 720K by Heritage on December 10, 2020, lot 58422. The other example was sold for $ 1.2M by Heritage on August 27, 2022, lot 53045.
4
Topps
2020 SOLD for $ 720K by Heritage
On December 10 and 11, 2020, in addition to the Gem Mint O-Pee-Chee narrated above, Heritage sold three other lots related to the Gretzky rookie card.
The Topps graded Gem Mint by PSA was sold for $ 720K from an estimate of $ 400K, lot 58422.
Two sealed box of 48 packs of 14 1979 O-Pee-Chee cards each were listed. They were sold for $ 250K, lot 58861, and for $ 114K, lot 58446.
A PSA Mint 9 of the same O-Pee-Chee was sold for $ 84K, lot 58747.
The Topps graded Gem Mint by PSA was sold for $ 720K from an estimate of $ 400K, lot 58422.
Two sealed box of 48 packs of 14 1979 O-Pee-Chee cards each were listed. They were sold for $ 250K, lot 58861, and for $ 114K, lot 58446.
A PSA Mint 9 of the same O-Pee-Chee was sold for $ 84K, lot 58747.
GRETZKY Jersey
The top Wayne Gretzky game-worn jerseys sold at auction, based on historical and recent records (as of March 2026), highlight his iconic milestones and career bookends. The all-time record remains the 1988 Edmonton Oilers jersey from the Stanley Cup-clinching Game 4 Finals (his last as an Oiler), which fetched $1,452,000 (including buyer's premium) at Grey Flannel Auctions in June 2022. This photo-matched piece (to multiple games, including the Cup hoist) is widely regarded as the most expensive hockey jersey ever sold and has reappeared in listings (e.g., Goldin auctions) without surpassing that price.
Here are the standout high-value Gretzky jerseys from auctions:
Here are the standout high-value Gretzky jerseys from auctions:
- 1988 Edmonton Oilers Game 4 Stanley Cup Finals Jersey — $1,452,000 (Grey Flannel, June 2022)
The undisputed top: Worn in the clinching game of his final Cup win with Edmonton (sweep of Boston), photo-matched by MeiGray to 5 games including Finals appearances, milestone assists, and champagne-stained from celebrations. It held/holds the NHL jersey record. - 1986-87 Edmonton Oilers Jersey (500th NHL Goal + 1987 Cup Playoffs) — $952,500 (part of Jim Irsay collection dispersal, Christie's or similar, early 2026)
A recent blockbuster: Photo-matched to Gretzky's historic 500th goal (Dec. 22, 1986 vs. Vancouver, second-fastest ever at the time) and Game 7 of the 1987 Stanley Cup Finals. This milestone piece nearly hit seven figures, ranking it among the elite post-2022 sales. - 1998-99 New York Rangers Final NHL Game Jersey (April 18, 1999) — Various sales:
- One version (autographed, final point recorded) sold for $715,120 (Grey Flannel, June 2023).
- A pre-game/first-period worn version sold for around $448,994–$500,000+ CAD (Classic Auctions, February 2026).
These from his retirement game vs. Pittsburgh (assist for 2,875th point) are highly sought after for sentimental value, though lower than Oilers-era pieces.
- Various 1990s LA Kings/Rangers photo-matched examples fetching $50,000–$200,000+ range (e.g., Heritage Auctions sales in 2024–2025).
- Earlier ones like a 1986 playoff jersey at $206,021 (Classic Auctions, 2013) or milestone pieces from prior decades.
1
1979 Home jersey
2021 SOLD for $ 620K by Heritage
Aged 16 in 1977, Wayne Gretzky plays with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League. He admires Gordie Howe and wants to have like him the number 9. This is not possible : the 9 is already assigned to another player. Gretzky chooses 99 instead.
Gretzky is wearing the 99 throughout his great career. This number becomes the symbol of his success. When he retires as a player in 1999, the 99 is withdrawn in all the clubs of the National Hockey League. His admission in that retirement year into the Hockey Hall of Fame is another unprecedented honor. At that time he held 61 NHL records. For the time being, none has been overcome.
In January 1979 Gretzky turned 18 years old. He signs a 10-year contract with the Edmonton Oilers of the World Hockey Association. A few months later the WHA is terminated and the Oilers are integrated into the NHL. The 1979-1980 season is then Gretzky's rookie year in NHL. Despite his young age, he is already a super-champion. He scored 137 points in that season, as Marcel Dionne also did.
On February 26, 2019, Classic Auctions sold at lot 290 for $ 220K an Oilers' home jersey numbered 99, with on the right shoulder the 1904-1979 crest for the 75th year of the Edmonton city incorporation. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
This white jersey was used regularly, and perhaps even systematically in home games, by Gretzky from October to December 1979. The photo-matchings are convincing.
It displays a considerable game wear, including stitching repairs, stick marks and a larger tear in the stripe on an elbow. It is in its original configuration excepted the nameplate which had been transferred to another jersey in accordance with the practice of the team.
It is believed that no more than two home jerseys were used by a player during the season, and this one is arguably the earlier. At the beginning of that period, Gretzky scored his first assist in NHL and then his first goal.
This piece of history was sold again, for $ 620K by Heritage on February 27, 2021, lot 80136.
Gretzky is wearing the 99 throughout his great career. This number becomes the symbol of his success. When he retires as a player in 1999, the 99 is withdrawn in all the clubs of the National Hockey League. His admission in that retirement year into the Hockey Hall of Fame is another unprecedented honor. At that time he held 61 NHL records. For the time being, none has been overcome.
In January 1979 Gretzky turned 18 years old. He signs a 10-year contract with the Edmonton Oilers of the World Hockey Association. A few months later the WHA is terminated and the Oilers are integrated into the NHL. The 1979-1980 season is then Gretzky's rookie year in NHL. Despite his young age, he is already a super-champion. He scored 137 points in that season, as Marcel Dionne also did.
On February 26, 2019, Classic Auctions sold at lot 290 for $ 220K an Oilers' home jersey numbered 99, with on the right shoulder the 1904-1979 crest for the 75th year of the Edmonton city incorporation. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
This white jersey was used regularly, and perhaps even systematically in home games, by Gretzky from October to December 1979. The photo-matchings are convincing.
It displays a considerable game wear, including stitching repairs, stick marks and a larger tear in the stripe on an elbow. It is in its original configuration excepted the nameplate which had been transferred to another jersey in accordance with the practice of the team.
It is believed that no more than two home jerseys were used by a player during the season, and this one is arguably the earlier. At the beginning of that period, Gretzky scored his first assist in NHL and then his first goal.
This piece of history was sold again, for $ 620K by Heritage on February 27, 2021, lot 80136.
2
1986 Home jersey
2026 SOLD for $ 950K by Christie's
A game worn home jersey of Gretzky for the Oilers, photo-matched with important games in the 1986-87 season, was sold for $ 950K from a lower estimate of $ 300K for sale by Christie's on March 12, 2026, in the Irsay collection sale.
Significance of its photo-matched games in Gretzky's career.
Comparison with the jersey sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022, lot 400.
The game-worn home jersey of Wayne Gretzky from the Edmonton Oilers, photo-matched (via MeiGray) to key moments in the 1986-87 season, is part of The Jim Irsay Collection being auctioned by Christie's. It is scheduled for the Hall of Fame live auction on March 12, 2026, with an estimate of $300,000–$500,000 (your $300K figure aligns with the low end).
Significance of the Photo-Matched Games in Gretzky's CareerThis jersey is tied to two landmark achievements during the 1986-87 NHL season:
Comparison with the Jersey Sold for $1.452 Million by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022 (Lot 400)
The 2022 sale was Gretzky's final game-worn Edmonton Oilers jersey from the 1987-88 season (often called his "last Oilers jersey"). It was photo-matched (via MeiGray) to Game 4 of the 1988 Stanley Cup Finals, where the Oilers swept the Boston Bruins for the Cup—Gretzky's fourth with Edmonton and the final one before his trade to the Los Angeles Kings in August 1988. This jersey also had dramatic elements like champagne stains from celebrations, puck/stick marks, and Conn Smythe Trophy context (playoff MVP for Gretzky).
It set the record for the most expensive hockey jersey ever sold at auction ($1.452 million, including buyer's premium), surpassing prior records like Paul Henderson's 1972 Summit Series jersey.
Why the Price Difference?
The 2022 jersey commanded nearly 3–5x higher than the current $300K–$500K estimate due to several key factors:
Significance of its photo-matched games in Gretzky's career.
Comparison with the jersey sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022, lot 400.
The game-worn home jersey of Wayne Gretzky from the Edmonton Oilers, photo-matched (via MeiGray) to key moments in the 1986-87 season, is part of The Jim Irsay Collection being auctioned by Christie's. It is scheduled for the Hall of Fame live auction on March 12, 2026, with an estimate of $300,000–$500,000 (your $300K figure aligns with the low end).
Significance of the Photo-Matched Games in Gretzky's CareerThis jersey is tied to two landmark achievements during the 1986-87 NHL season:
- 500th career NHL goal: Gretzky scored this milestone on November 22, 1986, against the Vancouver Canucks. It marked him as one of the fastest players to reach 500 goals (in just his 575th game), underscoring his unprecedented scoring dominance early in his prime. At that point, he was already shattering records and solidifying his status as "The Great One."
- 1987 Stanley Cup Finals, Game 7 clincher: Gretzky wore it in the decisive Game 7 against the Philadelphia Flyers on May 31, 1987, where the Oilers won 3-1 to claim their third Stanley Cup in four years (and the third of Gretzky's five total with Edmonton). This was a high-stakes, championship-clinching game in a legendary playoff run. The Oilers' dynasty was at its peak, with Gretzky as captain and the central figure.
Comparison with the Jersey Sold for $1.452 Million by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022 (Lot 400)
The 2022 sale was Gretzky's final game-worn Edmonton Oilers jersey from the 1987-88 season (often called his "last Oilers jersey"). It was photo-matched (via MeiGray) to Game 4 of the 1988 Stanley Cup Finals, where the Oilers swept the Boston Bruins for the Cup—Gretzky's fourth with Edmonton and the final one before his trade to the Los Angeles Kings in August 1988. This jersey also had dramatic elements like champagne stains from celebrations, puck/stick marks, and Conn Smythe Trophy context (playoff MVP for Gretzky).
It set the record for the most expensive hockey jersey ever sold at auction ($1.452 million, including buyer's premium), surpassing prior records like Paul Henderson's 1972 Summit Series jersey.
Why the Price Difference?
The 2022 jersey commanded nearly 3–5x higher than the current $300K–$500K estimate due to several key factors:
- "Last" factor and end-of-era symbolism: The 1988 jersey was Gretzky's final one as an Oiler, worn in his last Cup win with the team before the blockbuster trade that shocked the hockey world and shifted NHL history (helping popularize the league in the U.S.). It symbolizes the close of Edmonton's dynasty and Gretzky's Edmonton chapter—highly nostalgic and emotionally resonant for collectors.
- Championship-clinching specificity: It was explicitly from the clinching game of the 1988 Finals (the sweep's finale), with visible celebration wear, making it a singular "holy grail" artifact of a dynasty's end.
- Market timing and records: In 2022, the sports memorabilia market was at a peak (post-2020 boom), with hockey items setting highs. That sale broke records and drew massive attention. By 2026, while the market remains strong, it has cooled somewhat from those highs, and estimates reflect more conservative positioning.
- Milestone vs. closure: The Irsay jersey ties to impressive mid-dynasty moments (500th goal + a Cup-clinching Game 7), but it's not the "last" or "final Cup" item. Collectors often pay premiums for ultimate rarity and narrative closure (e.g., final games, trades, retirements).
- Provenance and presentation: Both are photo-matched MeiGray examples, but the 1988 one had added drama (champagne stains) and was marketed as the pinnacle of Gretzky/Oilers items at the time.
3
1988 Home jersey
2026 SOLD for $ 2.8M by Goldin
Wayne Gretzky went to be rightly considered as the greatest ice hockey player of all time while he was with the Edmonton Oilers. In his ten regular seasons with that team, he always scored more than 100 points, not including the playoffs. He remains the only NHL players with 200 points in a single season, achieving four times this feat with the Oilers.
The Oilers won four Stanley cups with Gretzky as captain. The 1988 finials was the last in that configuration. It was won by the Oilers against the Boston Bruins. It included five events instead of four because the fourth match was disturbed by a power outage in Boston while in a tied score and had to be replayed in Edmonton on May 26.
Due to that incident, Gretzky was able to hold the Stanley cup in his home arena. This event is a turning point of his career as the managers of the team had financial difficulties and revealed to hom on the next days that they would be obliged to sell him. He was transferred to the Los Angeles Kings for the next season in a deal that included $ 15 million in cash. Canadian fans considered his move to the USA as a betrayal.
A home jersey of the Oilers with the number 99, the name of Gretzky and the captain's C patch has been photo matched by MeiGray with that Stanley cup event. It is still bearing uncleaned stains of champagne from the celebration. This piece of ice hockey history was sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022, lot 400. and for $ 2.8M by Goldin on April 24, 2026, lot 3.
1988 Gretzky jersey : Confirm by photo-matching list if lot 400 sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022 and lot 3 for sale by Goldin are the same piece.
Yes, the 1988 Wayne Gretzky jersey (Edmonton Oilers home white, #99, from Game 4 of the 1988 Stanley Cup Finals on May 26, 1988—the series-clinching game where the Oilers swept Boston and Gretzky hoisted the Cup for the last time as an Oiler) sold as lot 400 by Grey Flannel Auctions on June 5, 2022, for $1,452,000 (including buyer's premium). This set a record for the most expensive hockey jersey ever sold at the time.
This is the same piece listed by Goldin (lot 3 in the sale closing on April 25, 2026, referenced in the provided URL as the May 26, 1988 Stanley Cup Finals Game 4 Wayne Gretzky game-used photo-matched jersey).
Key confirming details:
The Oilers won four Stanley cups with Gretzky as captain. The 1988 finials was the last in that configuration. It was won by the Oilers against the Boston Bruins. It included five events instead of four because the fourth match was disturbed by a power outage in Boston while in a tied score and had to be replayed in Edmonton on May 26.
Due to that incident, Gretzky was able to hold the Stanley cup in his home arena. This event is a turning point of his career as the managers of the team had financial difficulties and revealed to hom on the next days that they would be obliged to sell him. He was transferred to the Los Angeles Kings for the next season in a deal that included $ 15 million in cash. Canadian fans considered his move to the USA as a betrayal.
A home jersey of the Oilers with the number 99, the name of Gretzky and the captain's C patch has been photo matched by MeiGray with that Stanley cup event. It is still bearing uncleaned stains of champagne from the celebration. This piece of ice hockey history was sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022, lot 400. and for $ 2.8M by Goldin on April 24, 2026, lot 3.
1988 Gretzky jersey : Confirm by photo-matching list if lot 400 sold for $ 1.45M by Grey Flannel on June 5, 2022 and lot 3 for sale by Goldin are the same piece.
Yes, the 1988 Wayne Gretzky jersey (Edmonton Oilers home white, #99, from Game 4 of the 1988 Stanley Cup Finals on May 26, 1988—the series-clinching game where the Oilers swept Boston and Gretzky hoisted the Cup for the last time as an Oiler) sold as lot 400 by Grey Flannel Auctions on June 5, 2022, for $1,452,000 (including buyer's premium). This set a record for the most expensive hockey jersey ever sold at the time.
This is the same piece listed by Goldin (lot 3 in the sale closing on April 25, 2026, referenced in the provided URL as the May 26, 1988 Stanley Cup Finals Game 4 Wayne Gretzky game-used photo-matched jersey).
Key confirming details:
- Both describe the exact same jersey: Gretzky's final Edmonton Oilers game-worn jersey, photo-matched by MeiGray to Game 4 of the 1988 Finals (plus additional games: multiple Cup Finals/Conference Finals appearances, regular season games including passing Gordie Howe for most career assists on March 1, 1988, and his final Oilers regular season goal on March 30, 1988—total of 5 photo matches).
- It features characteristic wear: puck/stick marks, champagne stains from post-game celebrations, repairs, and general use from the Conn Smythe-winning playoff run.
- Sources consistently link the Grey Flannel sale (lot 400, summer 2022 auction) to this historic "last Oilers jersey" from the 1988 clincher.
- Goldin's current/ongoing listing promotes it with the same provenance and photo-matching details as the one that achieved the $1.452M record at Grey Flannel. No evidence suggests duplication or a different jersey; the history aligns as the piece re-entering auction after the 2022 sale.
4
1999 Last Game jersey
2023 SOLD for $ 720K by Grey Flannel
Wayne Gretzky is unquestionably the greatest hockey player of all time with the stupendous record of 2,857 points during his 21 year NHL career. No other player has reached 2,000.
His farewell game with the New York Rangers, on April, 18, 1999 at Madison Square Garden against the Pittsburgh Penguins, was an event with a big acclaim including a slight change in singing the Canadian anthem. He used four jerseys, one for warmup and one for each period.
He scored his last NHL point in an assist in the second period. The jersey from that phase, autographed and dated on the tail, was given to a manager of the Rangers. It is video matched with the last point. It was sold for $ 720K by Grey Flannel on June 11, 2023, lot 1. The video is shared by Sotheby's before it was withdrawn on September 30, 2025, lot 1.
Gretzky's number 99 was league-wide withdrawn by the NHL. He was inducted in the Hockey Hall of Fame in an exceptional waiving of the waiting time. He donated the jersey of the last period to the Hall.
His farewell game with the New York Rangers, on April, 18, 1999 at Madison Square Garden against the Pittsburgh Penguins, was an event with a big acclaim including a slight change in singing the Canadian anthem. He used four jerseys, one for warmup and one for each period.
He scored his last NHL point in an assist in the second period. The jersey from that phase, autographed and dated on the tail, was given to a manager of the Rangers. It is video matched with the last point. It was sold for $ 720K by Grey Flannel on June 11, 2023, lot 1. The video is shared by Sotheby's before it was withdrawn on September 30, 2025, lot 1.
Gretzky's number 99 was league-wide withdrawn by the NHL. He was inducted in the Hockey Hall of Fame in an exceptional waiving of the waiting time. He donated the jersey of the last period to the Hall.
1980 Miracle On Ice Jersey of Mike Eruzione
2013 SOLD for $ 660K by Heritage
The Miracle on Ice refers to one of the most iconic upsets in sports history: the United States men's ice hockey team's shocking 4–3 victory over the heavily favored Soviet Union on February 22, 1980, during the medal round of the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.
This game, amid the Cold War tensions (including the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S.-led boycott threats), transcended sports to become a symbol of American resilience, underdog triumph, and national unity. The U.S. team—composed mostly of college players and amateurs—defeated a Soviet squad that had dominated international hockey for nearly two decades (winning four straight Olympic golds and using state-supported "amateurs" who were effectively professionals).
Background and Build-Up
The U.S. team was coached by Herb Brooks, a University of Minnesota legend who had been cut from the 1960 U.S. gold-medal squad. Brooks selected a roster heavy on Minnesota talent (12 of 20 players) and emphasized speed, conditioning, and a innovative "herringbone" system to counter the Soviets' superior skill.The Americans entered the Olympics as underdogs:
Path to Gold
Two days later (February 24), the U.S. defeated Finland 4–2 (coming from behind after trailing 1–2) to claim the gold medal—the first U.S. men's hockey gold since 1960. The Soviets took silver.
Roster Highlights
This game, amid the Cold War tensions (including the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S.-led boycott threats), transcended sports to become a symbol of American resilience, underdog triumph, and national unity. The U.S. team—composed mostly of college players and amateurs—defeated a Soviet squad that had dominated international hockey for nearly two decades (winning four straight Olympic golds and using state-supported "amateurs" who were effectively professionals).
Background and Build-Up
The U.S. team was coached by Herb Brooks, a University of Minnesota legend who had been cut from the 1960 U.S. gold-medal squad. Brooks selected a roster heavy on Minnesota talent (12 of 20 players) and emphasized speed, conditioning, and a innovative "herringbone" system to counter the Soviets' superior skill.The Americans entered the Olympics as underdogs:
- They tied Sweden 2–2, beat Norway 5–1, Romania 7–2, and West Germany 4–2–3.
- A key pre-Olympic exhibition loss to the Soviets (10–3) underscored the gap.
- The Soviet team featured stars like Vladislav Tretiak (goaltender), Valeri Kharlamov, and Boris Mikhailov.
- First period: U.S. stunned early with goals by Buzz Schneider and Mark Johnson (son of legendary coach "Badger" Bob Johnson), tying it 2–2 despite being outshot 12–6.
- Second period: Soviets took a 3–2 lead; Tretiak was surprisingly pulled after allowing Johnson's second goal (replaced by Vladimir Myshkin).
- Third period: Johnson tied it at 3–3 early. Captain Mike Eruzione scored the go-ahead goal at 10:00 (his only Olympic goal), assisted by Mark Pavelich and John Harrington.
- Final minutes: Goalie Jim Craig made crucial saves; the U.S. held on as the Soviets failed to pull their goalie despite trailing.
- Final score: USA 4, USSR 3.
- Iconic call by broadcaster Al Michaels: As the clock wound down, "Do you believe in miracles? YES!"
Path to Gold
Two days later (February 24), the U.S. defeated Finland 4–2 (coming from behind after trailing 1–2) to claim the gold medal—the first U.S. men's hockey gold since 1960. The Soviets took silver.
Roster Highlights
- Key players: Jim Craig (goaltender, tournament MVP), Mike Eruzione (captain), Mark Johnson (top scorer), Ken Morrow, Mike Ramsey, Neal Broten, Dave Christian.
- Many went on to NHL careers (e.g., Morrow won four Stanley Cups with the Islanders; Ramsey played over 1,000 games).
- Widely called the greatest sports moment of the 20th century (Sports Illustrated, 1999).
- Boosted U.S. hockey participation dramatically—youth registration surged, leading to more American NHL stars in later decades.
- Inspired generations; recent U.S. teams (including the 2026 Olympic gold winners) reference it as motivation.
- Cultural touchstone: Featured in the 2004 film Miracle (Kurt Russell as Brooks), documentaries, and ongoing retrospectives (e.g., Netflix's Miracle: The Boys of '80).
- Symbolized hope during U.S. challenges; it remains a pinnacle of Olympic drama and patriotism.
Often, international politics arise behind sport. When the International Olympic Committee selected Lake Placid for the 1980 Winter Games and Moscow for the Summer Games of the same year, no one could predict the extreme tension which will be generated by the events in Afghanistan.
Winter Games are taking place normally, but already the United States begin to organize a boycott of Moscow. In the stadium, the flagship competition becomes the ice hockey, the fastest of all team sports, where Soviet domination is overwhelming for two decades.
The ice hockey competition gathers twelve national teams, each made up of twenty players. The tournament begins with a first round of two groups of six teams. The United States qualifies painstakingly but they have the best goalkeeper, Jim Craig.
In the final phase, the United States meets the Soviet Union on February 22. Before the match, no one disputes the supremacy of the Soviets, supported by their government. Faced with this experienced team, the USA align young university players who had never played together before the Olympics. It is also the end of an era : the dogma of amateurism, required from the outset by the Olympic Charter, will be repealed in 1981.
Ten minutes before end, the US captain Mike Eruzione gives the advantage to his team by a magnificent shot. Under an incredible fervor of the public, the last ten minutes during which the Americans confirm their domination by a strategy of attack are a piece of sports anthology. The USA wins by a score of 4-3. The ABC broadcast commentator yells into his microphone : "Five seconds left in the game. Do you believe in miracles ? YES !". This extraordinary match is then known as the Miracle on Ice.
Eruzione had kept his equipment, which were separated into several lots by Heritage on February 23, 2013. The top lot is the jersey worn by him for the Miracle on Ice. It was sold for $ 660K, lot 80002.
Another jersey was sold for $ 287K. It had been game worn by Eruzione when he was awarded the gold medal. A stick was sold for $ 263K, lot 80001.
Please watch the video shared by Heritage to introduce the sale of the Miracle on Ice, courtesy of ABC Sports.
The Miracle on Ice is not the final event of the tournament. The last two games are played on February 24, 1980. The USSR crushes at 9-2 the Sweden which had achieved a 2-2 draw with the Americans in the first round.
Mistreated by Finland, the young Americans ended by winning this match 4-2 and therefore won the competition. It was a great day for Steve Christoff, who scored the 1-1 tie goal and assisted the final goal scored by Mark Johnson. Each of the twenty US players receives a gold medal inscribed in his name.
In 2006 and 2007 Christoff successively sold through a specialized broker his gold medal and his game worn jersey from the decisive match against Finland. These two lots were listed by Goldin on February 22, 2020. The medal was sold for $ 320K, lot 2 and the jersey for $ 117K, lot 3. The medal was sold for $ 375K on February 4, 2023 by SCP, lot 4.
Mark Wells sold his gold medal of the Miracle on Ice in private sale for a reported amount of $ 40K. Soon after, it was the first of the twenty to appear at auction. It was sold for $ 310K by Heritage on November 5, 2010, lot 81421.
Mark Pavelich had scored two of the four assists in the game against the Soviets, including the winning assist to Mike Eruzione. He was the first to auction his own medal. It was sold for $ 263K by Heritage on May 16, 2014, lot 82422.
Winter Games are taking place normally, but already the United States begin to organize a boycott of Moscow. In the stadium, the flagship competition becomes the ice hockey, the fastest of all team sports, where Soviet domination is overwhelming for two decades.
The ice hockey competition gathers twelve national teams, each made up of twenty players. The tournament begins with a first round of two groups of six teams. The United States qualifies painstakingly but they have the best goalkeeper, Jim Craig.
In the final phase, the United States meets the Soviet Union on February 22. Before the match, no one disputes the supremacy of the Soviets, supported by their government. Faced with this experienced team, the USA align young university players who had never played together before the Olympics. It is also the end of an era : the dogma of amateurism, required from the outset by the Olympic Charter, will be repealed in 1981.
Ten minutes before end, the US captain Mike Eruzione gives the advantage to his team by a magnificent shot. Under an incredible fervor of the public, the last ten minutes during which the Americans confirm their domination by a strategy of attack are a piece of sports anthology. The USA wins by a score of 4-3. The ABC broadcast commentator yells into his microphone : "Five seconds left in the game. Do you believe in miracles ? YES !". This extraordinary match is then known as the Miracle on Ice.
Eruzione had kept his equipment, which were separated into several lots by Heritage on February 23, 2013. The top lot is the jersey worn by him for the Miracle on Ice. It was sold for $ 660K, lot 80002.
Another jersey was sold for $ 287K. It had been game worn by Eruzione when he was awarded the gold medal. A stick was sold for $ 263K, lot 80001.
Please watch the video shared by Heritage to introduce the sale of the Miracle on Ice, courtesy of ABC Sports.
The Miracle on Ice is not the final event of the tournament. The last two games are played on February 24, 1980. The USSR crushes at 9-2 the Sweden which had achieved a 2-2 draw with the Americans in the first round.
Mistreated by Finland, the young Americans ended by winning this match 4-2 and therefore won the competition. It was a great day for Steve Christoff, who scored the 1-1 tie goal and assisted the final goal scored by Mark Johnson. Each of the twenty US players receives a gold medal inscribed in his name.
In 2006 and 2007 Christoff successively sold through a specialized broker his gold medal and his game worn jersey from the decisive match against Finland. These two lots were listed by Goldin on February 22, 2020. The medal was sold for $ 320K, lot 2 and the jersey for $ 117K, lot 3. The medal was sold for $ 375K on February 4, 2023 by SCP, lot 4.
Mark Wells sold his gold medal of the Miracle on Ice in private sale for a reported amount of $ 40K. Soon after, it was the first of the twenty to appear at auction. It was sold for $ 310K by Heritage on November 5, 2010, lot 81421.
Mark Pavelich had scored two of the four assists in the game against the Soviets, including the winning assist to Mike Eruzione. He was the first to auction his own medal. It was sold for $ 263K by Heritage on May 16, 2014, lot 82422.
