This rare and exquisite piece was designed by Juanita Jordan, then-wife of Michael Jordan, as a tribute for his 32nd birthday celebration on February 7, 1995, held at Jordan's restaurant in Chicago. Modeled directly from one of Jordan's own Air Jordan 1 sneakers, it stands as a striking homage to the basketball legend.
Only 10 of these silver shoes were ever produced by Howard Kaplan, owner of the renowned Henry Kay Jewelers. Of the limited run, two were gifted to Jordan, two remained with Kaplan, and the remaining six were donated to various charities. After production, the mold was destroyed, ensuring the shoe’s rarity and exclusivity. Alongside these, 10 sterling silver baseball gloves were also created.
Crafted in Israel, the shoe is hollow cast in 10 pounds of sterling silver, with every stitch and detail from the original sneaker faithfully replicated and preserved.
Just one month after this milestone birthday, Jordan would make his iconic return to basketball with a two-word fax: “I’m back.” This silver Air Jordan stands as a powerful symbol of that transformative period in his life and legacy.
The shoe is accompanied by a letter from its creator Howard Kaplan certifying its authenticity:
To Whom it May Concern: