It all started on basketball courts and in hip-hop videos. Now it has transformed into a status symbol. Sneakers are now as coveted as luxury watches. Collectors spend lakhs on rare pairs. And if a celebrity plays the game wearing these sneakers, and more importantly wins the game, these sneakers become a sensation.
In 2019, when a rare Nike Moon Shoe – a 1972 collection was auctioned for $437,000 which was triple its estimate, it started a movement. In less than a year, a signed Air Jordan 1s was auctioned for $560,000. Since then, sneaker brands have gained traction with super wealthy buyers considering these as status symbols and more as an asset.
Here is the list of 10 most expensive sneakers that have ever been sold
10. Nike Moon Shoe – $437,500
Only a dozen pairs of these sneakers exist. They were Handmade by the cofounder of Nike- Bill Bowerman. He made these sneakers for the 1972 Olympics.
9. Game-Worn Air Jordan 1 – $560,000
In the year 2020- when Michael Jordan himself wore these pairs, it created sensation in the sneaker world. The popularity of these sneakers is mind boggling.
8. Achilles Game Nike Kobe 8 – $600,000
In 2013, Kobe Bryant continued to play the game despite immense pain. Full marks to his efforts and tough mentality. Coming to 2025. These sneakers were later priced at $600,000. The collectors symbolize the sneakers with the tough mentality attitude.
7. Glass Shard Air Jordan 1 – $615,000
There was an exhibition game in Itlay. It was in 1985. During the game, Jordan shattered a blackboard. A small glass piece got embedded in the sole. This memory made Glass Shard Sneakers iconic.
6. Flu Game Air Jordan 12 – $1.3 Million
In 1997, it was the legendary finals. MJ was sick but still played and scored 38 points. These sneakers were later priced for $1.38 million
5. Nike Air Ship – $1.4 Million
This was the start of Nike’s journey. In 1984, in the fifth NBA game, Jordan wore these shoes. This was much before the Air Jordan line existed. These shoes were later priced at mind boggling $1.4 Million.
4. Nike Air Yeezy Samples – $1.8 Million
In 2008, during the Grammys, when Kayne West put on these prototypes, these sneakers were sold to RARES- an investment platform for $1.8M
3. Solid Gold Air Jordan 10 – $2 Million
These are special. They literally stand by their name. Artist Matt Senna created these 24-Karat Solid gold Air Jordans. These weigh 200 pounds. These are non wearable sneakers costing a fortune.
2. The Last Dance Air Jordan 13 – $2.2 Million
These sneakers were worn in 1998 Game 6 of NBA finals. The auction world went crazy and the price went skyhigh. They are one of the priciest shoes ever.
1. The Dynasty Collection – $8 Million
These are the highest sneaker sales ever. These are a set of 8 single shoes Jordan wore from 1991-98 in each Bulls Finals win.
| Rank | Model / Story | Year / Game | Price (approx.) |
| 1 | Dynasty Collection | 1991–98 playoff games | ~$8 M |
| 2 | Air Jordan 13 “Last Dance” | 1998 NBA Finals Game 2 | ~$2.24 M |
| 3 | Solid Gold OVO x Jordan 10 | Custom art piece (non‑game) | ~$2 M |
| 4 | Air Ships | 1984 rookie game | ~$1.47 M |
| 5 | Jordan 12 “Flu Game” | 1997 NBA Finals Game 5 | ~$1.38 M |
| 6 | Jordan 1 “Shattered Backboard” | 1985 exhibition dunk | ~$615K |
| 7 | Jordan 1 “Chicago” | 1984‑85 rookie season | ~$560K |
| 8 | Jordan 1 “Broken Foot” | 1985 exhibition injury game | ~$422K |
| 9 | Nike Moon Shoe | 1972 prototype | ~$437K |
| 10 | (others beyond top‑10) | e.g. Yeezy and Mag styles | varying |
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