Looking for that unexpected Father’s Day gift? Sure, most
guy’s would love to add a Mickey Mantel autographed baseball or a pair of
Muhammad Ali signed boxing gloves to their collection. But the truth is these
items aren’t always affordable for the average sports fan. So here is a list of
some of the hottest sports memorabilia items for 2008 that are relatively
affordable and destined to increase in value.
10. Chicago
Cubs Memorabilia
This one is based strictly on potential. It has been 100
years since the Cubs last won a World Series. The Cubs currently have the best
record in June for the first time since 1908, coincidently the last
time they won the World Series. If the Cubs are able to break the curse this
season, memorabilia for 2008 will definitely be a hot commodity.
9. Sidney Crosby Signed Hockey Puck
Crosby is already being compared to
hockey greats Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux. He is the youngest player to
record 100 points in a season, 200 career points, win the Art Ross Trophy, and
the Lester B. Pearson trophy. Crosby is on pace to
become an all time NHL great, so his
memorabilia is destined to grow in value.
8. Adrian Peterson Autographed Football
As a rookie, Peterson set the rookie record for most 200
yard games (2), most rushing yard in his first eight games (1,036), and most
yards rushing in a single game (296). He was named the Offensive Rookie of the
Year and became the MVP of the 2008 Pro Bowl. Peterson is on record for stating
that his goal is to rush for 2,000 yards in this upcoming season. Running backs can have short careers in the NFL, but Peterson is worth the risk.
7. Shaquille O’Neil Game Worn Jersey
Shaq is arguably the most dominant center in the NBA.
Over his career he has lead his teams to 4 NBA championships with 3 straight finals MVP's. Although he is on
the decline these days, he will always be considered an all time great. After
he retires, his memorabilia will steadily increase, as long as it’s not his
movie memorabilia.
6. Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card
Ken Griffey Jr. was projected to one day break Hank Aaron’s
home run record. In 1998, he became the youngest player to ever reach 350 home
runs. But injuries have really slowed Junior down. Today, Junior has compiled
10 Gold Gloves (1990-99) and currently is 6th all time with 599 HR’s. He is a future Hall of Famer and a fan favorite.
5. Detroit
Red Wings Stanley Cup
Gear
The Detroit Red Wings just won their American leading 11th
Stanley Cup. Behind the efforts of Henrik Zetterberg (Conn Smythe Trophy winner)
and goalie Chris Osgood, the Red Wings were the best team throughout the
regular season and the playoffs. This is a storied franchise and their
memorabilia will always be very valuable.
4. Brett Favre Autographed Ball
Favre played the game with as much passion as any player on
the field. His career numbers represent the risks he took and the fire he
played with. It is for these reasons that Favre has always been a fan favorite.
His memorabilia will always be a commodity and in 5 years when he is elected to
the Hall of Fame, its value will soar.
3. LeBron James Autographed Jersey
LeBron James is already considered one of the best players
in the NBA. In his first four seasons, James has already accomplished winning a
Rookie of the Year award, 4 NBA All-Star appearances, won a scoring title, and
led his team to the NBA Finals. If James continues to progress, he will go down
as an all time great.
2. Kobe
Bryant Game Used Jersey
Bryant is one of few NBA stars who have frequently been
compared to Michael Jordan. But Bryant is the only star who has lived up to the
hype, and he has the credentials to prove it. He won his first league MVP this
season and already has 3 rings. Even if the Lakers do not win the championship
this year, they will be a title contender for the next few years.
1. Tiger Woods Memorabilia
Tiger Woods will arguably be remembered as the greatest
golfer ever. He is the youngest player to 50 wins, has 64 PGA tour wins (tied
for 3rd all-time) and 13 Major Championships (2nd
all-time). It is only a matter of time before he becomes the all time leader in
each of those categories. Tiger could go down in history as one of the greatest
athletes of all time, which will make is memorabilia very valuable one day.