The Masters Tournament's limited-edition gnomes, introduced in 2016, have unexpectedly become highly valuable collectibles. Initially sold for under $50, these garden ornaments now command prices reaching over $10,000 on eBay.
The gnomes' limited availability and annual design changes fuel high demand and resale value. eBay sales data shows a dramatic increase in sales and average price over the years, with 2023 sales increasing by more than 3,750 percent compared to 2016. This year's gnome, featuring a peach ice cream sandwich, is already selling at several times its retail price.
Ryan Carey, president of Golden Age Auctions, notes the gnomes' surprising popularity, outpacing other high-value golf memorabilia. The annual release of new designs encourages the collecting of older gnomes, driving up their prices on the secondary market.
Alongside the full-size gnomes, smaller versions and accompanying items like salt and pepper shakers also hold resale value, although they are less expensive than the full-size collectible.
The success of the Masters gnomes is attributed to their unexpected popularity and limited quantities, making them rare and desirable collectibles. The lack of anticipation for their collectible status further contributed to their current value.